PHILADELPHIA — The independent Philadelphia Water, Sewer, and Storm Water Rate Board (Rate Board) announced four upcoming public input hearings to address a general rate increase requested by the Philadelphia Water Department (PWD). 

PWD first requested increased water, sewer, and stormwater rates and charges in February and filed formal notice with the Rate Board on March 31, 2025.  The Department also filed formal notice of its annual Tiered Assistance Program Reconciliation (TAP-R) proceeding on March 31.  

Based on the PWD rate filing, beginning September 1, 2025, the monthly bill for the typical residential customer would increase by 11.7 percent. Beginning September 1, 2026, a typical customer would experience an additional 5.9 percent increase.

Note: These numbers represent a bill for a residential customer with a 5/8-inch water meter and using 430 cubic feet, or 3,217 gallons, of water per month.  

Details about the requested rates are posted to the Rate Board site.  

Prior to implementing any new rates, the Rate Board will review the Department’s request and hold public input hearings and technical hearings to determine whether the proposed new rates are justified and reasonable. A final decision by the Rate Board is expected in July 2025. 

Public Input Hearing Schedule:  

In-Person Hearing One 

When: April 23, from 1-3 p.m.* 

*Details for joining virtual hearings are available on the Rate Board calendar at www.phila.gov/water/rateboard. 

Those interested in email or SMS alerts about upcoming PWD events and public input hearings can sign up here.