Where to pay your Portland water bill
The City of Portland Bureau of Water and Sewer Services accepts payments through three main channels: online at the city's website, by phone, or by mail. You can set up a one-time payment or enroll in automatic monthly billing from your bank account.
The online portal is the fastest route if you have your account number handy — it's the 10-digit number on your bill. You'll find the payment page on the City of Portland's official website under the water bureau section. Payments made online typically post within one business day.
If you prefer to call, the water bureau's customer service line accepts credit card and debit card payments over the phone. Mailing a check is also an option; your bill includes the mailing address and a tear-off stub with your account number that helps the city match your payment to your account.
Key Takeaways
- You can pay online, by phone, or by mail, and online payments usually post within one business day.
- Your account number appears on your bill and is required for phone and online payments.
- Automatic bank payments (ACH) can be set up through the city's website to avoid late fees.
- If your bill is overdue, the city may add a late charge and eventually shut off service, so contact the water bureau immediately if you cannot pay.
- Your bill shows usage in cubic feet and breaks down charges for water, sewer, and stormwater separately.
Reading your Portland water bill
Your bill shows three separate charges: water supply, sewer service, and stormwater management. The water charge is based on how much water you used, measured in cubic feet. One cubic foot equals about 7.5 gallons, so a typical household using 500 cubic feet per month is using roughly 3,750 gallons.
The sewer charge is usually a percentage of your water usage — the city assumes most water that enters your home leaves through the sewer system. Stormwater charges are typically a fixed fee based on the size of your property's roof and impervious surfaces (driveways, patios, concrete). These three charges combined make up your total bill.
Your bill also lists the meter reading date, your current usage, and your previous month's usage so you can spot unusual spikes. If your usage jumps significantly without explanation, it may indicate a leak inside your home or in the meter itself.
Setting up automatic payments to avoid late fees
The City of Portland charges a late fee if your bill is not paid by the due date shown on your statement. Enrolling in automatic monthly payments through the city's website removes this risk and ensures your account stays current.
To set up automatic payments, log into your account on the city's water bureau website and select the ACH (automatic clearing house) option. You'll need your bank account number and routing number. The city will deduct the full bill amount on or shortly after your due date each month.
If your usage varies significantly month to month, you can still use automatic payments — the city will charge whatever the current bill amount is rather than a fixed sum. You can pause or cancel automatic payments at any time through your online account.
What to do if you cannot pay your bill on time
Contact the water bureau's customer service line as soon as you know you cannot pay by the due date. The city may offer a payment plan that breaks your bill into smaller installments spread over several months, which stops late fees from accumulating while you catch up.
If you are experiencing financial hardship, ask about the city's low-income rate reduction program. Portland offers reduced rates for households below certain income thresholds, though you will need to provide proof of income. The water bureau can direct you to the application process.
If your account becomes severely overdue, the city may issue a shut-off notice. This notice gives you a window to pay or arrange a payment plan before service is disconnected. Once service is shut off, reconnection requires payment of the full balance plus a reconnection fee.
Understanding usage spikes and leak detection
A sudden jump in your water usage between billing periods often signals a leak. Common sources are running toilets, dripping faucets, leaks in underground pipes, or a faulty water heater. Even a small leak can waste thousands of gallons per month and drive up your bill significantly.
To check for leaks, turn off all water-using appliances and faucets, then look at your water meter. If the meter is still moving, water is leaking somewhere in your home's plumbing. You can also check your toilet by adding food coloring to the tank — if the color appears in the bowl without flushing, the flapper valve is leaking.
If you suspect a leak but cannot locate it, contact a licensed plumber. Fixing a leak quickly is usually far cheaper than paying for wasted water over several months. Some plumbers offer free leak detection, and the city's website may have resources for finding local plumbers.
Disputing a bill or reporting a meter problem
If you believe your bill is incorrect or your meter is not reading accurately, contact the water bureau's customer service line with your account number and a description of the problem. The city can review your usage history and compare it to previous months to spot patterns.
The water bureau may send a technician to test your meter if you report a suspected malfunction. Meter testing is usually free, and if the meter is found to be faulty, the city may adjust your bill for the period it was inaccurate. Request this adjustment in writing and keep a copy for your records.
If you are disputing a bill because of a leak you have since repaired, provide proof of the repair (a receipt from a plumber, for example). The city may not reverse charges for water that was used, but it will stop charging for the leak once it is fixed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my account number if I don't have my bill?
Your account number is a 10-digit number printed on your water bill. If you don't have a copy, log into your account on the City of Portland's water bureau website using your address and other identifying information, or call customer service with your address and they can look it up.
What happens if I pay late?
The city charges a late fee on overdue balances. If your account remains unpaid for an extended period, the city may issue a shut-off notice and eventually disconnect your service. Reconnection requires payment of the full balance plus a reconnection fee.
Can I change my billing address or contact information?
Yes. Log into your account on the city's website and update your address, phone number, or email. You can also call customer service to make these changes over the phone. Updating your email address ensures you receive bill reminders and notices.
Does Portland charge different rates for residential and commercial accounts?
Yes, commercial accounts are charged at different rates than residential accounts. The city's website lists the current rate schedules for both. If you believe your account is classified incorrectly, contact the water bureau to request a review.
What if my water service is shut off?
To restore service, you must pay the full outstanding balance plus a reconnection fee. Contact the water bureau immediately to arrange payment. Reconnection typically happens within one to two business days after payment is received and processed.