Overview and service area
The Burbank Water Department provides water and wastewater services to customers within the city of Burbank, California. The department manages drinking water delivery, billing and metering, water quality testing, and local wastewater collection and treatment. Service is typically limited to city boundaries, including residential, commercial, and some industrial accounts. Customers receive one bill for water and wastewater services, and accounts are administered under the city’s utility enterprise structure.
Drinking water sources and supply portfolio
The Burbank Water Department relies on a blend of local groundwater and imported water, consistent with the city’s Water Supply Plan. Local groundwater is extracted from aquifers beneath Burbank via municipal wells. Imported supplies include water from the California State Water Project and the Colorado River system, delivered via regional wholesale providers. This diversified mix helps buffer the utility against drought and single-source disruptions. The city also pursues conservation and storage strategies to maintain reliability.
Key supply sources
| Source | Approximate share of supply | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Local groundwater | Variable (often a significant portion) | Local wells managed by the utility |
| California State Water Project | Imported | Delivered via regional wholesalers |
| Colorado River system | Imported | Delivered via regional wholesalers |
Billing, rates, and customer account services
The Burbank Water Department sets rates under a ratepayer-approved structure, with adjustments typically aligned with cost recovery, conservation incentives, and infrastructure needs. Bills are issued periodically and often combine water and wastewater charges. Customers have options for autopay, online account management, and paper billing. Programs such as low-income assistance may be available to qualifying households. For specific rate schedules or usage tiers, customers can review the latest rate documents published on the city’s website or request them in writing.
Water quality and reporting
The Burbank Water Department is required to monitor drinking water quality and deliver an annual water quality report (Consumer Confidence Report) to customers. Testing covers a broad set of regulated and unregulated constituents, including microbiological, chemical, and physical parameters. Results are typically summarized to highlight compliance with federal and state standards. Customers may request additional data or have questions addressed through the utility or local health agency.
Conservation programs and drought preparedness
The Burbank Water Department offers conservation programs, rebates, and outreach to encourage efficient water use. These may include incentives for water-saving fixtures, landscape efficiency, and industrial process improvements. The utility also maintains drought response plans that may involve voluntary reductions, outdoor watering restrictions, and targeted messaging to high-use sectors. Rebate eligibility, rules, and availability can change based on funding and supply conditions.
Conservation measures commonly promoted
- High-efficiency fixtures and appliances
- Smart irrigation and turf replacement incentives
- Leak detection and repair assistance
- Customer education and usage feedback tools
Infrastructure projects and capital improvements
The Burbank Water Department plans and funds capital projects to maintain and upgrade infrastructure, including treatment plants, storage facilities, pipelines, and meters. Projects are typically evaluated through planning studies, environmental review, and public input, where required. Timelines and costs vary by project, and major initiatives may appear on multi-year capital improvement plans. Customers can find project descriptions, meeting notices, and updates on the city’s public works or utility websites.
Contact and further information
Customers can contact the Burbank Water Department for billing questions, service inquiries, conservation information, and emergency support. Official resources, including rate schedules, annual reports, and conservation guidelines, are typically available online or by request. When seeking guidance, ask for the specific department or program name and reference any account or correspondence numbers. For general information and notices, the city’s official website serves as a primary source.