Here are some frequently asked questions about the new utility rate structure based on housing type on the Utility Billing page. 

Why has Council introduced a tiered structure for water and sewer rates?

City Council has introduced a tiered structure for rates with the goal of distributing costs in a more equitable way. The tiered structure means some residents will pay less and some will pay more, depending on housing type.

Although the number of people per household can vary, changes to rates were determined based on the estimated average number of occupants for each housing type. (Data source: population projections, specifically population per unit, from Metro Vancouver.)

In general, a household with more occupants can be expected to use more water and produce more sewage, while a household with fewer occupants can be expected to use less water and produce less sewage. The goal of the tiered structure is to more closely align the amount paid for water/sewer services with the amount of water used and sewage produced.
Which housing types are paying more for water and sewer services? Which are paying less?
Under the new tiered structure for water and sewer services, 2022 rates have increased for the following housing types:
  • Single-family homes, up $182 from 2021
  • Townhouse/rowhouse units up, $121 from 2021

The rates have decreased for the following:

  • Condo/apartment units, down $194
  • Laneway homes and secondary suites, down $347
  • Rental housing owned and operated by non-for-profit societies, down $347
Are water and sewer rates changing for businesses?

Under the new tiered structure for water and sewer services, 2022 rates have increased for businesses. The increase varies depending on the type of business. For example, an office will pay $188 more and a restaurant will pay $373 more.
I live in a single-family home. I’m paying more this year – why?
City Council has introduced a tiered structure for rates with the goal of distributing costs in a more equitable way. The tiered structure means some residents will pay less and some will pay more, depending on housing type.

Although the number of people per household can vary, changes to rates were determined based on the estimated average number of occupants for each housing type. (Data source: population projections, specifically population per unit, from Metro Vancouver.) The estimated average number of occupants for single-family homes is higher than other housing types.

In general, a household with more occupants can be expected to use more water and produce more sewage. The goal of the tiered structure is to more closely align the amount paid for water/sewer services with the amount of water used and the amount of sewage produced.
I live in a townhouse. I’m paying more this year – why?
City Council has introduced a tiered structure for rates with the goal of distributing costs in a more equitable way. The tiered structure means some residents will pay less and some will pay more, depending on housing type.

Although the number of people per household can vary, changes to rates were determined based on the estimated average number of occupants for each housing type. (Data source: population projections, specifically population per unit, from Metro Vancouver.) The estimated average number of occupants for townhouse/rowhouse units is higher than other housing types (with the exception of single-family homes).

In general, a household with more occupants can be expected to use more water and produce more sewage. The goal of the tiered structure is to more closely align the amount paid for water/sewer services with the amount of water used and the amount of sewage produced.
I’m a business owner. I’m paying more this year – why? 

City Council has introduced a tiered structure for rates with the goal of distributing costs in a more equitable way. The tiered structure means some people will pay less and some will pay more, depending on housing or business type.

In general, certain types of businesses can be expected to use more water and produce more sewage than others. The goal of the tiered structure is to more closely align the amount paid for water/sewer services with the amount of water used and the amount of sewage produced.
Why doesn’t the City use water metering?
The most equitable method of allocating costs is through universal metering; however, this would require a significant investment in capital infrastructure (water meters) and add ongoing operating expenses (e.g. for meter reading, billing, repairs, and replacements) to the City’s budget. Due to the high initial costs associated with universal metering, to date, there has not been a business case to move forward with universal residential metering within Port Moody.  
What can I do if I’m not in favour of the tiered structure?
If you would like to share your thoughts with us on anything related to utility billing, including the new rate structure, please fill out our feedback form. All submissions will be shared with City staff and Council.
How are the rates for recycling/green waste/glass/garbage determined? Are they set using a tiered structure as well?
The rates for garbage collection are based on the size of your cart. For 2022, the rates for garbage collection are $119 for a 120-litre cart or $206 for a 240-litre cart.

The rates for recycling and glass collection are based on whether service is centralized or curbside. For 2022, centralized recycling collection is $28 and curbside collection is $44. Centralized glass collection is $8 and curbside collection is $13.

The rates for green waste collection are based on housing type. For 2022, the rates are as follows: $243 for a single-family home, $122 for a multi-family townhouse/rowhouse unit, and $49 for a condo/apartment with centralized collection.