San Antonio Water Meter Rules and Fees

Utilities and Infrastructure Texas 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 05, 2026 Flag of Texas

San Antonio, Texas residents receive water service governed primarily by the San Antonio Water System (SAWS). This guide summarizes how metering is managed, typical charges and where to find official rules and contacts. For the controlling service rules see the SAWS Service Rules page SAWS Service Rules[1].

Metering & Fees Overview

SAWS requires a meter for each service connection. Meter sizes, installation requirements and standard fees are set by SAWS rate schedules and service rules. Published meter installation and connection fees are available from SAWS rates and fees resources SAWS Rates & Fees[2].

  • Meter installation: size and installation requirements determined by SAWS permit and technical rules.
  • Connection and meter fees: published in SAWS rate schedules and fee lists; details on the SAWS Rates & Fees page.[2]
  • Meter tests and accuracy checks: customers may request tests under SAWS procedures; fees or refunds follow test results.
Keep the meter accessible and report obvious damage promptly to preserve billing accuracy.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of metering rules is carried out by SAWS and by City-authorized code or utility enforcement staff where ordinances apply. Specific enforcement sections and remedies are described in SAWS service rules and related ordinances; monetary amounts and schedules are noted where published.[1]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page for all violations; see the cited SAWS and city enforcement pages for any published fee tables.[1]
  • Escalation: provisions for first, repeat or continuing offences are not specified in a single table on the cited SAWS page; escalation may include increased fines, service disconnection or court action.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: service disconnection, meter sealing, repair orders, seizure of illegal connections, or civil court proceedings are available remedies where unauthorized alterations or tampering occur.
  • Enforcer and complaints: primary contact is SAWS Customer Service and Meter Services. To report meter tampering or billing disputes contact SAWS directly via their customer contact channels listed on SAWS pages.[1]
  • Appeals and review: review procedures are handled first through SAWS dispute and customer service channels; formal appeal paths and time limits are not specified on the cited service-rules page.[1]
If you suspect tampering, report it immediately to SAWS to avoid potential liability.

Applications & Forms

Common forms include service activation, meter installation requests, and meter test requests. Exact form names, numbers, fees and submission methods are listed on SAWS application pages and rate schedules; if a specific form number is required it is not specified on the cited summary pages.[2]

Many service requests can be started online through SAWS customer portals.

Common Violations

  • Meter tampering or bypassing the meter.
  • Unauthorized meter removal or replacement.
  • Obstructing access for reading or inspection.
  • Failure to pay assessed connection or meter fees.

FAQ

Who enforces water metering rules in San Antonio?
SAWS enforces metering rules and coordinates with city code enforcement where municipal ordinances apply.
How do I dispute a meter reading or bill?
Contact SAWS Customer Service to request an investigation or meter test; use the formal dispute channels on the SAWS service pages.
What happens if someone tampers with my meter?
Tampering can lead to service disconnection, charges for repairs and potential fines or criminal referral depending on severity.

How-To

  1. Locate your meter: find the curb or yard box and note the meter serial number.
  2. Report issues: contact SAWS Customer Service with account and meter details to request inspection or testing.
  3. Request a meter test: follow SAWS procedures for testing; be prepared to pay a refundable test fee if applicable.
  4. File an appeal: if the test or investigation does not resolve the dispute, follow SAWS published escalation or appeal steps and retain documentation.
Document dates and photos before any repairs or inspections for your records.

Key Takeaways

  • SAWS is the primary authority for meter rules and fees in San Antonio.
  • If you suspect tampering or billing errors, contact SAWS promptly.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] SAWS Service Rules
  2. [2] SAWS Rates & Fees

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