For information regarding utility billing and payments, please contact the Finance Department at (360) 778-8011 or email utilitybilling@cob.org.
Starting January 2026: Rate increases for sewer, water, and storm drainage utilities
We are committed to delivering safe and reliable water utility services to our community every day. Your bill pays for more than just the water from your tap, it supports three essential services that keep our community safe and healthy: drinking water, wastewater and stormwater. Each utility service has a fee based on the cost to provide that service to you, the utility customer.
Utility rates are increasing by 13.5% at the beginning of 2026. The Bellingham City Council approved the three-year rate schedule on July 7, 2025 for City utility customers. Effective January 1, 2026, utility rates are increasing by 13.5%.
>> Learn more about the Utility Rate increases here.
We understand that these rate increases are a challenge for many households. To support those who need it most, we have expanded our Customer Assistance Program to provide reduced rates for qualifying income-eligible households.
Convenient Payment Options
Customers may pay their bill using cash, check, or credit card (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express), in-person at City Hall, or by using the following convenient payment options:
Enroll in Paperless Billing
At no cost, utility customers may enroll in paperless billing. This service is not available to renters unless already enrolled in Auto Pay.
Once enrolled, you will receive a monthly email notification that your statement is available to view and pay. Each account must be enrolled individually; however, owners of multiple properties and property management firms can email utilitybilling@cob.org and have accounts linked under one log-in.
Turning On and Off Service
Rates
Reduced Rates
Any household with an income at or below 80% of the area median income may now be eligible for a discount on their bill starting in January 2026.
Review the Reduced Utility Rate information for income eligibility. The City also offers reduced rates to agencies providing affordable housing for low-income households. Agencies must be nonprofits or the Bellingham Housing Authority, and the reduced rate is only available for low-income housing where rents are restricted by a federal, state or city housing program for households earning less than 80 percent (80%) of area median income. See BMC 15.04.070(C).
Surface and Stormwater Fee Reduction
The City of Bellingham recognizes that some property owners have constructed private on-site stormwater quantity mitigation facilities, which may aid the City in controlling the overall effects of stormwater. Properties or portions of properties with facilities that meet certain criteria, and to the City’s satisfaction, shall receive a reduction from the monthly fee charged. For detailed information see City of Bellingham Municipal Code 15.16.040 – Exemption, Credits and Adjustments. If you think you qualify for a fee reduction, fill out the Fee Reduction Application (PDF).
Account Adjustments
If you require an account adjustment due to a leak, please use the following form:
- Application for Adjustment to Water and/or Sewer Bills (PDF)
- Utility Hearing Board Appeal Form (PDF)
More Information
For more information on a specific utility, please visit the sections below:
Resources
- Finance Department Contacts
- Water Conservation
- Residential Water Consumption Calculator
- Understanding Your Utility Bill (PDF)
- Opportunity Council Utility Assistance
