What happens if someone is using water without an approved application?

Property Owner & Landlord Responsibilities

The utility may terminate water usage without notice. The user must pay for all water used at applicable rates and is subject to all tariff provisions.


Using water without an approved application is a violation of the tariff. No person may receive water service from the utility until the utility has approved their application.

What happens

If the utility discovers someone is using water without an approved application:

  • The utility may terminate water service immediately without notice
  • The person using water must pay for all water used at applicable rates
  • The person is subject to all provisions of the tariff, including deposits, fees, and charges

What “furnishing water” does not mean

If the utility has been providing water to someone without an approved application, this does not mean:

  • The utility has waived the requirement for an approved application
  • The utility has waived compliance with other tariff provisions
  • The person is excused from paying for water used

To get legal water service after unauthorized use:

  1. Submit a proper application for water service
  2. Pay the required service deposit
  3. Pay for all water used during the unauthorized period
  4. Pay any applicable fees

For information on applying for service, see How do I apply for water service?

Note: If you turned your own water back on after the utility shut it off, see What happens if I turn my water back on myself? for additional consequences.

Tariff Reference: Section W-006-B, Section W-006-C


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