PLACEHOLDER H2 TO MEET WCAG REQUIREMENT
This page lists questions used in determining whether there is a need to establish a new water or sewer utility and, if the need exists, how to do so.
Before bringing water or sewer service to a new development, you must first consider the following questions:
- Can a reliable source of water and/or sewer service be obtained?
- Is there water available in the area to serve the establishment?
- What financial costs and permits are required to build a water system that will supply clean, drinkable water to your customer base reliably and consistently?
- What financial costs and permits are required for a sewer system that will effectively serve the area and discharge wastes appropriately and will provide a reliable and consistent supply to your customers?
- Will there be sufficient revenue to maintain the utilities' equipment?
- Is properly trained staff available to keep the system running?
- Are rates properly designed to adequately charge for water and/or sewer utility service?
If you determine that you need to set up a new utility, you may wish to contact the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to learn which permits and/or approvals are required. TCEQ can also provide the requirements for designing and building a water or sewer system.
If, after contacting the PUC, you believe that you have the resources to establish a successful new water or sewer utility, one option available is to create a sole proprietorship or a for-profit water or sewer utility corporation (called an investor-owned utility, or IOU, under the PUC's rules). Another option is to create a nonprofit water supply or sewer service corporation (WSC). To pursue either of these options, you must:
- Create a corporation through the Texas Secretary of State's Office.
- Submit plans, specifications and proof of a reliable water supply for your proposed water system to the TCEQ.
- Obtain a discharge permit from the TCEQ for the proposed sewer treatment plant or arrange to connect with a neighboring system.
- Secure funding for the proposed utility.
- Obtain a CCN delineating the service area.
- Set up a tariff showing your schedule of rates and service rules.
For information about these utility types and their regulations, see Rules and Guidance for Water Utilities.
Further Guidance
Water: What is My Source presents options for determining whether there is an entity that provides retail water or sewer utility service to your area and, if so, who does