Wichita Water Utilities Fast Help: Pay, Call, Start Service or Report a Leak
Use this page like a Wichita utility desk. Pick the job, open the official City route, prepare the right account details, and avoid wrong-portal, slow-payment, shutoff, high-bill, watering-schedule, leak or sewer-stoppage mistakes.
Start Here: Choose the Exact Wichita Water Task
| Searcher intent | Best official action | Have ready | Critical detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pay water bill online | link.wichita.gov → One-Time Payment or Register/Login | Account number, service address, payment method, amount due. | For billing questions, payment arrangements or payment help, call 316-265-1300. |
| Set up paperless billing | Register or login at link.wichita.gov → Manage Account → choose paperless billing. | Account number, email, password access. | The official FAQ says paperless billing requires registration first. |
| Start or stop service | link.wichita.gov → Start/Stop Services → Start or Stop Service Only → Get Form. | Service address, start/stop date, contact info, forwarding address. | Customer Care can also help by phone at 316-265-1300. |
| Past-due / possible shutoff | Call 316-265-1300 before relying on online, mail, bank bill pay or drop box. | Notice, account number, amount due, payment ability, confirmation number. | Official FAQ says once a shutoff nonpayment service order is generated, online payment is disabled and you must contact Customer Care. |
| Water leak / public sewer leak / sewer stoppage | Call 316-262-6000. | Exact address, cross street, visible leak/backflow, time started, safety risk. | Use phone, not a slow form, for leaks and sewer emergencies. |
| Private septic leak | Call 316-268-8351. | Property address, owner/tenant info, visible issue, safety risk. | Private septic is not routed the same as public sewer. |
| High water bill | High Water Bill guidance + call if needed. | Usage history, toilets checked, repair proof, irrigation schedule. | Wichita highlights toilet flapper leaks and faucets as common high-usage causes. |
| Watering schedule / drought rules | Permanent Outdoor Watering Schedule. | Address ending, irrigation type, new sod/seed status. | Odd addresses water Wed/Fri/Sun; even addresses Tue/Thu/Sat; no Monday sprinkler irrigation; no outdoor watering 10 AM-6 PM. |
Fast safety rule: billing/payment questions go to 316-265-1300. Water leaks, pressure problems, sewer stoppages and other water/sewer emergencies go to 316-262-6000.
Official Wichita Water Info Box
Office / visit
Water Customer Care
455 N. Main Street, 1st Floor
Wichita, KS 67202
City Hall listing: 455 N. Main, Wichita, KS 67202.
Customer Care
Billing / arrangements / payment:
316-265-1300
Email:
watercustomerservice@wichita.gov
Emails may take up to three business days per the online-payment FAQ.
Office / call hours
- Customer Care phone: Monday-Wednesday and Friday, 8 AM-5 PM.
- Customer Care phone: Thursday, 9 AM-5 PM.
- Office visit at 455 N. Main, 1st Floor: Monday-Friday, 8 AM-5 PM.
- City Hall general listing: 8 AM-5 PM Monday-Friday, closed Saturday/Sunday.
Wichita water sources
Wichita identifies two major water sources: Cheney Reservoir, which relies on rainwater runoff, and the Equus Beds Aquifer, where groundwater is stored for future use.
The current drought-stage page says Wichita is in Stage 1 and urges residents/businesses to follow the outdoor watering schedule and voluntarily conserve.
Pay or Login: Official Wichita Water Payment Routes
One-Time Payment
Use link.wichita.gov for quick bill payment without managing the full account.
Register / Login
View billing and payment history, paper bills online, account details and paperless billing settings.
Payment arrangement
For arrangements or account-risk issues, call 316-265-1300 before the account reaches shutoff order status.
Moving
Use Start/Stop Services on link.wichita.gov or call Customer Care at 316-265-1300.
| Payment / account task | Official detail | Best user action |
|---|---|---|
| Make one-time payment | The official payment site says “One-Time Payment Pay Now.” | Use the official link.wichita.gov route and save confirmation. |
| Billing questions | Payment site displays: for billing questions, payment arrangements or payment, call 316-265-1300. | Call before assuming the balance in a notice is still current. |
| Emergency water leak / sewer stoppage | Payment site displays: for water emergencies, call 316-262-6000. | Do not use email or slow request form for active leaks or sewer stoppage. |
| Payment history | Registered users can access billing and payment history at link.wichita.gov. | Register/Login before calling if you need prior bills or proof. |
| Paperless billing | Register first, then login → Manage Account → Yes → Save. | Check email and spam folders after enabling paperless billing. |
| Online paper bill copy | Login at link.wichita.gov, then go to Billing and Download PDF. | Download the PDF before disputing usage or fees. |
| Partial payment | Official FAQ says partial payments are accepted, but unpaid total by due date becomes delinquent and can cause late fees/service interruption. | Ask Customer Care whether a partial payment is enough to protect service. |
| Shutoff order generated | Official FAQ says the online payment option is disabled once the shutoff nonpayment service order is generated. | Call 316-265-1300 or visit 455 N. Main, 1st Floor. |
| Update mailing address / phone | Call 316-265-1300, visit 455 N. Main, or use the online Customer Request Form. | Update contact info before bills/notices are missed. |
| Email support | watercustomerservice@wichita.gov; responses may take up to three business days. | Use email for non-urgent documentation, not emergency leaks or shutoff deadlines. |
Past-Due, Arrangement or Shutoff Risk
Call before delay
If a notice is active, call 316-265-1300 before using mail, bank bill pay or an unverified route.
Partial payment warning
Partial payments are accepted, but the bill is delinquent if the full amount due is not paid by the due date.
Online disabled warning
Once a shutoff nonpayment order is generated, the online payment option may be disabled and Customer Care must be contacted.
| Situation | Best move | Ask this exact question |
|---|---|---|
| Bill is late but water still on | Call Customer Care and ask about balance, late charge and arrangement eligibility. | “What amount must be paid today to avoid service interruption?” |
| Received shutoff notice | Do not rely on slow payment; call 316-265-1300. | “Is online payment still allowed, or has a shutoff nonpayment order already been generated?” |
| Payment arrangement needed | Call before shutoff stage. Keep written/confirmation proof. | “Can I set up a payment arrangement, and what happens if I miss a scheduled amount?” |
| Online payment option disabled | Contact Customer Care or visit 455 N. Main, 1st Floor. | “What exact payment method is accepted now, and when will service be restored/protected?” |
| Need help paying | Ask Customer Care, then contact United Way 2-1-1 or Center of Hope. | “Which assistance programs are currently open and what documents do I need?” |
Assistance facts: Wichita’s Rates & Fees page lists United Way 2-1-1 and Center of Hope at 316-267-0222 for help-paying-water-bill resources. The 2026 Rate Relief Water Assistance Program lists a $100 benefit, March 15-December 31, 2026 application window, and proof of 2026 LIEAP approval.
Start, Stop, Move or Update Wichita Water Service
Start service
- Go to link.wichita.gov.
- Click Start/Stop Services.
- Check “Start or Stop Service Only.”
- Click Get Form.
- Complete and submit.
- Have service address, start date and contact info ready.
Stop service
- Use the same Start/Stop Services path.
- Prepare stop date.
- Prepare forwarding address.
- Download last bill if needed.
- Ask if final billing is separate from the new address.
Other ways
- Call 316-265-1300.
- Visit 455 N. Main, 1st Floor.
- Use live chat on wichita.gov during Customer Care hours.
- Email watercustomerservice@wichita.gov for non-urgent documentation.
Renter / landlord note: apartments, duplexes, HOAs, shared meters and property-manager accounts can be billed differently. Confirm whether the Wichita water account is in your name, the landlord’s name, or a master-meter/submeter system before opening or disputing service.
Water Leak, Sewer Stoppage, Public Sewer Leak or Private Septic Leak
Water leak
To ensure water leaks get repaired as soon as possible, call 316-262-6000.
Public sewer leak
To ensure public sewer system leaks get repaired as soon as possible, call 316-262-6000.
Private septic leak
For private septic system leak reporting, call 316-268-8351.
| Problem | Say this | Helpful details |
|---|---|---|
| Street leak / main break | “Water is flowing/bubbling at [address/cross street].” | Direction of flow, traffic risk, sinkhole risk, time started, photos only if safe. |
| No water / pressure problem | “My property has no water/low pressure. Neighbors [are/are not] affected.” | Check account status, main valve if safe, nearby work/flushing, exact start time. |
| Sewer stoppage / backup | “Wastewater is backing up at [fixture/location].” | Stop water use, avoid wastewater contact, note basement/floor drain/toilet affected. |
| Hydrant / meter hazard | “There is a damaged hydrant / exposed meter / missing cover at [location].” | Keep children and vehicles away; give nearest address or landmark. |
2026 Wichita Water and Sewer Rates: What Users Need First
2026 water effective date
Ordinance 52-847 applies on and after Jan. 1, 2026.
2026 common water base
5/8, 3/4 and 1-inch residential inside city minimum water service charge: $22.08/month.
2026 common sewer base
5/8, 3/4 and 1-inch inside city residential sewer base service charge: $12.62/month.
Late charge
Water ordinance lists 1.5% of unpaid balance added to bills not paid within 25 days of issuance.
| Rate / bill item | 2026 official detail | User action |
|---|---|---|
| Water minimum service charge | Residential inside city 5/8, 3/4, 1-inch meters: $22.08/month; residential outside city: $35.35/month. | Check meter size and inside/outside city status before estimating. |
| Water commercial minimum charge | Commercial inside city 5/8, 3/4, 1-inch: $24.07/month; commercial outside city: $38.53/month. | Business accounts should confirm class and meter size. |
| Water AWC definition | Average Winter Consumption is based on December, January, February and March consumption and recalculated each April. | Winter use affects block pricing for the next 12 months. |
| Water AWC minimum | Minimum monthly AWC for metered service sized 1 inch or less is 6,000 gallons. | Low winter use may still use the minimum AWC threshold. |
| 2026 water volume block 1 | Residential inside city: $3.51 per 1,000 gallons through 110% of AWC. | Most normal household usage starts in this block. |
| 2026 water volume block 2 | Residential inside city: $12.26 per 1,000 gallons from 111% through 310% of AWC and fire services. | Outdoor watering can push usage into this block. |
| 2026 water volume block 3 | Residential inside city: $17.93 per 1,000 gallons above 310% of AWC. | High outdoor use or leaks can become much more expensive. |
| 2026 sewer base charge | Inside city residential 5/8, 3/4, 1-inch: $12.62/month; outside city residential: $20.22/month. | Review sewer base separately from water volume. |
| 2026 sewer volume charge | Inside city residential: $4.98 per 1,000 gallons of metered water consumption; outside city residential: $7.96. | If a leak did not enter sewer, ask whether sewer review is possible. |
| Sewer flat rate charge | 2026 sewer flat rate: $36.84 inside city and $58.92 outside city. | Flat-rate users should confirm account classification. |
| Extra-strength sewer charge | 2026 inside-city charge per pound: BOD $0.32, suspended solids $0.29, grease $4.78. | Relevant for commercial/industrial users, restaurants and high-strength discharge. |
| Temporary discontinuance | Water ordinance says request must be made not less than two working days prior and discontinuance period must not be less than 30 days. | Ask Customer Care before planning temporary shutoff. |
High Wichita Water Bill: Check These Before Disputing
Toilet flapper leak
Wichita says a toilet flapper leak can be hard to detect but easy to check.
Seasonal watering
High usage can occur when weather warms and you start watering yard or garden.
Faucet leaks
Worn faucet washers or cartridges can create extra water use.
| Check | What to do | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Usage vs dollar amount | Compare consumption, not only total bill. | Rates, sewer, stormwater and late fees can change total cost. |
| Toilet dye test | Open tank, add enough dark food coloring to tank, wait about 15 minutes without flushing, check bowl. | Color in bowl means a toilet leak. |
| Faucets / cartridges | Check worn washers, cartridges and slow drips. | Small drips can add up across the billing period. |
| Irrigation timer | Confirm odd/even days, run times, sprinkler leaks and watering outside 10 AM-6 PM. | Outdoor watering is a common Wichita high-bill driver. |
| Water softener | Check for stuck regeneration or continuous drain cycle. | Softener problems can run quietly. |
| AWC block impact | Compare usage to Average Winter Consumption blocks. | Usage above AWC can move into higher-priced water blocks. |
| Proof packet | Save bill PDFs, repair receipts, photos, meter readings and timeline. | Customer Care can review faster when evidence is organized. |
Permanent Outdoor Watering Schedule and Drought Rules
Odd addresses
Addresses ending in 1, 3, 5, 7 or 9 may water Wednesday, Friday and Sunday.
Even addresses
Addresses ending in 0, 2, 4, 6 or 8 may water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
No Monday / no midday
No outdoor sprinkler/spray irrigation on Mondays. No outdoor watering between 10 AM and 6 PM.
| Watering question | Official answer | User action |
|---|---|---|
| What does the rule apply to? | Outdoor sprinkler and spray irrigation systems. | Set automatic irrigation controller to the correct days/times. |
| What is not on the 3-day schedule? | Indoor use, hand watering, hose watering, drip irrigation, well water, non-potable water and non-irrigation outdoor use. | Still avoid waste and follow 10 AM-6 PM time limits where applicable. |
| Can I hand water flowers/trees/shrubs? | Yes, outside 10 AM-6 PM; the schedule targets sprinkler irrigation devices. | Hand-water new plants early morning or evening. |
| Best lawn watering time? | Wichita notes 4 AM-8 AM as ideal based on best practices. | Set irrigation to early morning to reduce evaporation and disease risk. |
| New seed or sod | Variance requests can be made for turf seed for 30 days, turf sod for 21 days, or special circumstances. | Submit the variance before watering outside normal schedule. |
| Drought status | Current page says Stage 1, with Cheney 12-month average determining drought stages. | Check the Drought Update page before publishing or acting. |
Water source context: Wichita’s drought page says the city gets water from Cheney Reservoir and the Equus Bed Aquifer. Cheney Reservoir levels determine drought stages over a 12-month average.
Save Wichita Water: Rebates, Free Devices and Repair Help
2026 rebate timing
Applications are accepted as of February 1, 2026. Devices must be purchased between January 1 and December 31, 2026.
90-day deadline
Rebate application must be postmarked no later than 90 days after purchase of qualified products.
Free devices
City water customers can pick up a free low-flow shower head or sink aerator while supplies last at listed city locations.
| Rebate / conservation item | Official page lists | Useful user note |
|---|---|---|
| Dual flush converter kits | 2026 rebate information PDF. | Good for older toilets when full replacement is not planned. |
| Hose faucet irrigation controllers | 2026 rebate info and EPA WaterSense approved list. | Useful for hose-connected irrigation. |
| Rain barrels | 2026 rebate information PDF. | Can reduce landscape water use. |
| Rain sensor shutoffs | 2026 rebate information PDF. | Prevents irrigation during rain. |
| Smart irrigation controllers | 2026 rebate info and EPA WaterSense approved list. | Helps follow schedule and reduce wasted watering. |
| Toilet repair kits | 2026 rebate information PDF. | Important for silent toilet leaks. |
| Toilets, clothes washers, dishwashers | 2026 appliance rebate information PDFs. | Check efficiency requirements before purchase. |
| Grasses & shrubs | 2026 rebate information PDF. | Use water-wise landscaping to reduce summer use. |
| Leak repair support | Partnership with MABCD Code Enforcement Liaison Program; call 316-265-1300. | Ask about qualified homeowner water-leak repair help. |
| Program questions | Email conservation offices or call 316-268-4470. | Ask before buying if unsure whether item qualifies. |
Water Quality, Lead & Copper, Water Reports and Backflow
Water quality report
Wichita publishes annual Consumer Confidence Reports showing where water comes from, what it contains and how it compares to EPA/state standards.
Lead result
Wichita’s Lead & Copper page says the most recent 90th percentile lead result was 1.4 micrograms per liter, below the 15 micrograms per liter action level.
Public lead service lines
The city says it has replaced more than 10,000 public lead service lines in recent years.
| User question | Official-source answer | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Is Wichita drinking water meeting standards? | Wichita says it has a long-standing history of meeting regulatory standards in the annual Water Quality Report. | Use the newest CCR for contaminant tables and local data. |
| Does the city control corrosion? | The lead page says the utility maintains strict control of pH, hardness and other parameters to prevent corrosion. | If your concern is home plumbing, consider certified lab testing. |
| Do I have a lead service line? | City says customers believed to have a lead service line would be notified after inventory; users can report pipe materials. | Use the city reporting form if you believe you have a lead service line. |
| Do property owners have to replace lead plumbing? | FAQ says owners are not required to replace lead plumbing on private property, though EPA recommends replacement to eliminate risk. | Use certified lab testing and review EPA guidance. |
| Who tests drinking water for lead? | EPA recommends certified laboratory analysis; Wichita FAQ lists Kansas certified lab options and says testing can cost $15-$100. | Follow lab collection instructions carefully. |
| What is backflow? | Backflow is reversal of flow in a water system that can allow contaminants from private plumbing into the public water system. | Maintain/test backflow devices when required. |
| Why did I get a backflow letter? | Wichita says customers with irrigation backflow devices may receive testing/rebuild notices; devices must be tested annually and rebuilt every 5 years. | Schedule a qualified technician and submit proof. |
| What if I ignore backflow compliance? | FAQ warns noncompliant customers risk water disconnection; facilities where discontinuation is not possible may face civil penalties. | Contact Public Works if you cannot meet the requirement. |
Locality, Provider and “Wrong Utility” Routing
| Area / search phrase | What it usually means | Best next step |
|---|---|---|
| Wichita, KS water bill | Usually City of Wichita Water Customer Care / link.wichita.gov. | Use 316-265-1300 for account/billing and 316-262-6000 for water/sewer emergencies. |
| Inside city limits | Rates and charges may differ from outside-city customers. | Check inside/outside classification before estimating charges. |
| Outside city customer | Water and sewer charges can be higher outside Wichita city limits. | Ask Customer Care whether your address is billed inside or outside city. |
| Wholesale / nearby community | Some nearby systems may buy or connect through Wichita but bill locally. | Pay the provider printed on your bill, not just the city name in search results. |
| Private well | Well water is not the same as Wichita retail water billing and is exempt from the 3-day sprinkler schedule. | Use local health/environmental guidance for private well testing. |
| Private septic | Not a public sewer leak. | Call 316-268-8351 for private septic leak reporting. |
| Apartment / master-meter | Bill may be controlled by landlord, apartment manager or billing company. | Ask who holds the master account and how usage is allocated. |
| Stormwater / flood control | Different from water and sewer billing/account care. | Use Wichita Stormwater Management resources if the issue is drainage/flooding. |
Wichita Water Customer Care Map and Office Details
Use the map for Wichita City Hall / Water Customer Care at 455 N. Main Street, Wichita, KS 67202. Customer Care office visits are listed for 455 N. Main, 1st Floor.
| Location / route | Details | Use for |
|---|---|---|
| Water Customer Care visit | 455 N. Main Street, 1st Floor, Wichita, KS 67202 | Billing, account details, shutoff/order issue, moving service, in-person help. |
| Public Works & Utilities | 455 N. Main Street, 8th Floor, Wichita, KS 67202 | Utility administration / H2O Care Fund donation form mailing route listed on Rates & Fees page. |
| Billing / arrangements | 316-265-1300 | Payment arrangements, balance, customer-service questions. |
| Water or sewer emergency | 316-262-6000 | Water leaks, pressure problems, sewer stoppages, public sewer leaks. |
| Private septic leak | 316-268-8351 | Private septic leak reporting. |
| Conservation rebate questions | 316-268-4470 | Rebate questions for showerheads, aerators, irrigation controls, toilets and other devices. |
Official Links Used in This Guide
Wichita Water Utilities FAQ
What is the Wichita water bill phone number?
For billing questions, payment arrangements or payment help, call Wichita Water Customer Care at 316-265-1300.
What number do I call for a Wichita water leak or sewer stoppage?
Call 316-262-6000 for water leaks, pressure problems, sewer stoppages, water emergencies and public sewer leaks.
What number do I call for a private septic leak?
Call 316-268-8351 for a private septic system leak.
Where is Wichita Water Customer Care located?
Water Customer Care is listed at 455 N. Main Street, 1st Floor, Wichita, KS 67202.
What are Wichita Water Customer Care hours?
The official online-payment FAQ lists phone hours as Monday-Wednesday and Friday 8 AM-5 PM, Thursday 9 AM-5 PM. Office visit hours at 455 N. Main, 1st Floor are Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM.
How do I pay my Wichita water bill online?
Use link.wichita.gov. You can make a one-time payment or register/login to view account details, payment history and billing PDFs.
Can I pay less than the full amount?
Partial payments are accepted, but the official FAQ says if the total amount due is not paid by the due date, the bill becomes delinquent and may be subject to late fees and possible service interruption.
Will paying online prevent water shutoff?
Not always. The official FAQ says once a shutoff nonpayment service order is generated, online payment is disabled and the customer must contact Water Customer Care at 316-265-1300.
How do I start or stop Wichita water service?
Go to link.wichita.gov, click Start/Stop Services, check Start or Stop Service Only, click Get Form, complete the form and submit. You can also call 316-265-1300.
How do I sign up for paperless billing?
Register your account at link.wichita.gov, login, click Manage Account, choose Yes for paperless billing and click Save.
Why is my Wichita water bill high?
Common reasons include seasonal outdoor watering, toilet flapper leaks, faucet leaks, irrigation settings, water softener issues, higher AWC blocks and sewer/fee line items.
How do I test for a toilet leak?
Open the tank lid, place dark food coloring in the tank, wait about 15 minutes without flushing and check the bowl. Color in the bowl means a leak.
What is the Wichita outdoor watering schedule?
Odd-numbered addresses water Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. Even-numbered addresses water Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. No outdoor sprinkler/spray irrigation on Mondays and no outdoor watering between 10 AM and 6 PM.
What are Wichita’s water sources?
Wichita identifies Cheney Reservoir and the Equus Beds Aquifer as its two water sources.
What is the 2026 common residential water base charge?
The 2026 water ordinance lists 5/8, 3/4 and 1-inch residential inside-city minimum water service charge at $22.08/month.
What is the 2026 residential sewer volume charge?
The 2026 sewer ordinance lists inside-city residential sewer volume charge at $4.98 per 1,000 gallons of metered water consumption.
Does Wichita have water bill assistance?
Wichita’s Rates & Fees page lists United Way 2-1-1 and Center of Hope at 316-267-0222. It also lists a 2026 Rate Relief Water Assistance Program with a $100 benefit and proof of 2026 LIEAP approval.
Does Wichita offer water conservation rebates?
Yes. The 2026 program includes rebate information for dual flush converter kits, hose faucet irrigation controllers, rain barrels, rain sensor shutoffs, smart irrigation controllers, toilet repair kits, toilets, clothes washers, dishwashers, grasses and shrubs.
Does Wichita have lead service line information?
Yes. Wichita says it has replaced more than 10,000 public lead service lines in recent years and reports a recent 90th percentile lead result of 1.4 micrograms per liter, below the 15 micrograms per liter action level.
Is this the official City of Wichita website?
No. This is an informational guide. Confirm live balances, payment deadlines, shutoff status, service changes, notices and emergency instructions directly with City of Wichita Water Customer Care or your latest bill.
30-Second Wichita Water Checklist
Paying: link.wichita.gov → One-Time Pay or Register/Login → save confirmation → call 316-265-1300 if timing matters.
Emergency: water leak, pressure problem, sewer stoppage or public sewer leak → call 316-262-6000.
Start/stop: link.wichita.gov → Start/Stop Services → Start or Stop Service Only → Get Form.
Past due: partial payments may still leave the bill delinquent; once shutoff order is generated, online payment may be disabled.
High bill: check toilet dye test, faucets, irrigation, AWC blocks, softener and proof before disputing.
Watering: odd Wed/Fri/Sun; even Tue/Thu/Sat; no Monday sprinkler watering; no outdoor watering 10 AM-6 PM.