Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources (DWR) provides water and wastewater services to unincorporated areas of Gwinnett County, Georgia, and supports the region’s long-term water supply resilience. This overview explains key functions of the department, including drinking water quality, wastewater treatment, billing and account services, infrastructure maintenance, and water conservation initiatives. Readers will find practical details on how to contact the department, what services are covered, and how rate structures and customer assistance programs may apply. The content reflects standard utility operations and regulatory responsibilities to help residents understand what to expect from this public agency.
What the department does and why it matters
The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources manages essential water and wastewater systems that serve county residents, businesses, and institutions. These systems deliver treated drinking water, collect and treat wastewater, and maintain infrastructure such as pipes, pumps, and treatment facilities. Reliable water and wastewater services support public health, environmental protection, and economic activity. The department works within state and federal regulations, collaborates with partner agencies, and plans for future demand as the county grows. Understanding the scope of these services helps residents appreciate how the utility contributes to community safety and long-term water security.
Key responsibilities at a glance
- Provide safe, reliable drinking water that meets regulatory standards
- Collect, treat, and dispose of wastewater in compliance with environmental rules
- Maintain and upgrade water and wastewater infrastructure
- Support water conservation and drought preparedness
- Assist customers with billing questions, rates, and account management
Drinking water quality and treatment
Gwinnett County DWR ensures that drinking water meets or exceeds state and federal standards by treating source water, monitoring contaminants, and distributing water through a network of pipes and storage facilities. Treatment processes typically include coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to remove or reduce contaminants. The utility conducts regular testing for parameters such as bacteria, metals, disinfection byproducts, and other substances that affect safety and taste. Customers receive annual water quality reports that summarize monitoring results and explain what they mean for household use. These reports are a useful reference for understanding long-term trends and compliance with regulatory limits.
Common drinking water quality indicators
| Parameter | Verified Detail or Typical Range | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Residual chlorine | 0.2–1.0 mg/L at tap | Routine monitoring |
| Total coliform/E. coli | Non-detected in distribution | Routine monitoring |
| Lead | < 0.015 mg/L action level | Routine monitoring |
| Trihalomethanes | < 0.080 mg/L maximum | Routine monitoring |
| Turbidity | < 0.3 NTU in most cases | Routine monitoring |
Wastewater collection and treatment
The department’s wastewater system collects sewage from homes, businesses, and institutions, then conveys it to treatment facilities where solids are removed, organic matter is broken down, and pathogens are reduced. Treated effluent is typically discharged following permitted limits to protect receiving waters. The system includes sewer lines, lift stations, and maintenance facilities designed to prevent backups and overflows. Proper use and routine maintenance of lateral pipes, grease management, and responsible chemical disposal help protect both household drains and the regional treatment infrastructure. Residents play a direct role in keeping the system efficient and reducing the risk of environmental impacts.
Common causes of sewer issues and prevention tips
- Grease buildup: avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down drains
- Non-flushable items: only flush toilet paper and human waste
- Root intrusion: schedule inspections if you notice slow drains or odors
- Pipe blockages: use strainers and dispose of food scraps properly
- Heavy inflow and infiltration: report sagging or collapsed private laterals
Billing, rates, and account services
Billing for water and wastewater services is typically based on meter readings, with charges tied to consumption for many customers. Residential rates are designed to cover operating costs, debt service, and planned investments in infrastructure while remaining fair and transparent. Bills include usage data, due dates, and instructions for making payments online, by phone, or in person. The department often provides assistance programs, payment plans, or hardship options for eligible households. Understanding how your meter works, reading bills carefully, and contacting customer service early when you face difficulties can help avoid service interruptions and ensure accurate charges.
Estimated typical monthly bill components
| Component | Metric | Estimate or Range (illustrative) |
|---|---|---|
| Service or base charge | monthly | $20–$35 |
| Consumption charge | per 1,000 gallons | $3–$6 |
| Wastewater treatment fee | based on usage or flat | varies by plan |
| Stormwater fee (if applicable) | flat or impervious area | regional program dependent |
Infrastructure, maintenance, and capital projects
To keep water and wastewater systems reliable, Gwinnett County DWR plans and executes infrastructure upgrades, preventative maintenance, and emergency repairs. This includes replacing aging pipes, expanding storage and treatment capacity, and improving pumping stations. Projects are evaluated for cost, risk, and public benefit, often funded through bonds, grants, or dedicated revenue. Construction timelines and temporary service changes are communicated in advance through notices, public meetings, and website updates. Understanding typical project durations and how crews coordinate with neighbors helps manage expectations and minimize disruption.
Examples of typical project types
- Water main replacement and rehabilitation
- Wastewater plant improvements and capacity upgrades
- Storage tank construction and rehabilitation
- Pump station modernization
- Smart metering and SCADA system enhancements
Water conservation, drought planning, and environmental stewardship
The department promotes water efficiency through education, incentives, and, when needed, voluntary or mandatory restrictions during drought periods. Conservation measures may include guidance on outdoor watering, fixture upgrades, and leak detection. DWR monitors reservoir levels, streamflow, and groundwater conditions to plan for dry periods and protect water quality. Programs often include partnerships with schools, businesses, and community groups to encourage long-term behavioral change. By combining operational reliability with conservation initiatives, the department supports both immediate needs and future water security.
Practical conservation actions for customers
- Fix leaks promptly, including toilets and irrigation
- Install water-efficient fixtures and appliances
- Use outdoor watering schedules that minimize evaporation
- Collect rainwater for landscape use where allowed
- Participate in rebate programs for efficient appliances
How to contact and access services
Customers can reach Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources staff by phone, email, or in-person visits at designated offices. Common inquiries include bill questions, service start/stop requests, leak reporting, and water quality concerns. Many routine tasks can be completed online through account portals or mobile apps if available. Clear contact details, hours, and required documentation help ensure timely assistance and reduce the need for follow-up communication. Check the official county website for the most current contact options, office locations, and document requirements.