STPUD board approves new rates and ADU requirements

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - The South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD) Board of Directors adopted new water and sewer rates and approved no connection fees for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) at the Board Meeting on Thursday, May 19, 2022.

After two years of zero rate increases, the STPUD Board adopted new rates to fund the water and sewer pipeline replacement program and keep up with increasing construction costs. These rates will go into effect on July 1, 2022.

For a typical residential customer, water rates will increase by $5.36/month or $16.13/quarter, and sewer rates will increase $3.56/month or

“By investing in our aging infrastructure today, we will lower long-term costs, protect the environment and ensure quality service,” said John Thiel, General Manager.

STPUD continues to actively pursue grant funds to offset rate increases. Over the last 10 years, STPUD has received more than $16 million in grant revenue and $64 million in low-interest loans.

“By successfully securing grant funding and operating efficiently, the District continues to have the lowest water and sewer rates in our region,” said Thiel.

In addition to adopting new rates, the board addressed ADUs. Over the last several years, the State of California has passed legislation to address statewide housing shortages, including the permitting of accessory dwelling units. To comply with the law, STPUD updated its Administrative Code to not require a new water or sewer connection or capacity fee for ADUs.