Water - City of Longmont
Source: https://longmontcolorado.gov/water
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:36
Water - City of Longmont
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Water
Contact
Submit a Service Request
(303) 651-8416
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday, 8 am to 5 pm
Location
Civic Center
350 Kimbark St.
Longmont, CO 80501
The Water Department is dedicated to managing Longmont’s water supply, treatment, distribution, and quality control. Our mission is to provide residents with clean, reliable, and sustainable water services. We are committed to maintaining high water quality standards, promoting conservation efforts, and ensuring efficient management of the city’s water resources.
Explore Water Services
Flood Information
Rates and Fees – Water, Storm, Sewer
Rebates – Electric
Service Requests
Sewer Lines
Stormwater & Drainage
Wastewater Treatment
Water Conservation
Water Line Replacement
Water Meter Maintenance Program
Water Resources & Supply
Water Initiatives
Drinking Water
Longmont’s drinking water is safe for you to use and the water treatment and delivery system is sound, ensuring you have a continuous and uninterrupted supply of drinking water every day.
Water Conservation
Sustainable Water use in Longmont is as important as ever. Learn the importance of conserving water and programs to offer rebates and discounts to help you continue in that goal.
Water Resources & Supply
Learn where all of Longmont’s drinking water comes from, how they arrive here and the processes they take in their journey to your home.
Rates and Fees – Water, Storm, Sewer
Check out the City's rates and fees schedule for all of the different water utilities and how your utility bill will be impacted.
Sewer Lines
Learn about your sewer service line, your responsibilities and how to prevent and report any problems.
Wastewater Treatment
Learn about the six major types of treatment processes at the Wastewater Treatment plant and how these processes are integrated to treat wastewater so that our community can thrive without creating negative impacts to the St. Vrain River.
Flood Information
Check if your home is in the mapped floodplain, your flood insurance requirements and options, and how to prepare in case of a flood.
Stormwater Quality & Drainage
Learn how the City rehabilitates and improves existing stormwater facilities and helps to protect the rivers, lakes and streams that flow through our community.
Water Services Documents & Brochures
2023 Water Quality Report
The annual Water Quality Report provides detailed information about Longmont's drinking water and the rigorous testing and monitoring practices we follow to ensure the highest water quality standards for all residents.
Flood Awareness Brochure
If your Land is in the 100-Year Floodplain, you and your property are at risk. Find more information here about determining your flood risk, protecting
your property and changing requirements for flood insurance.
Ten Years After the Flood
A Story of Recovery and Resilience
Report a Problem
To report the following during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact Water Utilities at (303) 651-8416. After hours, please call Longmont Public Safety Dispatch.
Suspected water main break
Flooding
Very low water pressure
No water service
Sewer backup in home/business
Contact Us
Contact us regarding general inquiries and service requests. Calls are answered between 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday. You can also submit non-urgent requests online through
ServiceWorks
.
Stormwater Quality Program
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
stormwater@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Conservation
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
hope.bartlett@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Quality Lab
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterlab@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Resources
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterresources@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Utilities
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterutilities@longmontcolorado.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Backflow Prevention
Please contact
Water Utilities
and a water representative will help you.
At this time, testers have two options to submit backflow tests to the City of Longmont:
Complete the
Backflow Assembly Test & Maintenance Report
online.
Or you can choose one of the following paper forms,
PDF Form
Word Doc Form
Excel Doc Form
please make sure to fill it out and submit it by sending as an attachment in an email to Email the results to
backflow@LongmontColorado.gov
If you need additional help or have any questions, please contact
Water Utilities
.
Water Utilities currently uses a database system to track backflow device installation and test results.
A survey of certified inspectors was done, and the average cost was $50 to $100.
Please contact
Water Utilities
and a water representative will help you.
A technician who is certified in backflow assembly testing. The certification needs to be through American Backflow Prevention Association or American Society of Sanitary Engineering. The
Backflow Prevention Education Council of Colorado
provides a list of technicians who are certified by one or both of these organizations and we provide a
list of backflow assembly testers
for general information.
The Safe Drinking Water Act and the State of Colorado mandate that water suppliers develop and maintain a Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control program. Neither entities have developed specific programs, but the State has outlined requirements for the program.
Property owners own the backflow devices on their property.
In an effort to be in compliance with new backflow regulations from the State, the City is attempting to determine the responsible party for the maintenance and testing of backflow devices. Additionally, the City has changed a process in billing allowing customers to now be able to view their water consumption on their monthly water bill.
No, the City will continue to provide water at no charge for customers who maintain City arterial right-of-way areas as part of an effort to Keep Longmont beautiful.
Utilities & Public Works and Parks & Natural Resources
Union Reservoir was constructed “on top of” a natural lake called Calkins Lake. The lake was named for or by Longmont’s first engineer, Benjamin Calkins. It was a natural depression that was presumably deepened and enlarged over time by bison herds that used the natural low spot for watering and wallowing in.
Other notable reservoirs constructed on top of natural lakes are found at McIntosh Lake, Burch Lake and McCall Lake. McCall Lake Reservoir was actually constructed over the top of two natural lakes, making the single reservoir.
Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the water service line from their property line to their house foundation. It is rare that these lines fail. Residents may, however, be approached by private companies offering insurance plans on water service lines entering their homes. Such companies are not associated with the City, and the need for insurance is at the discretion of the owner. If you have questions, please contact
Water Utilities
.
Fluoridation of Longmont’s water supply was approved in 1958 and continues today. It is a safe and approved practice, and the City uses fluoride products that meet industry standards for drinking water treatment additives. Longmont and other water utilities in Colorado take guidance on treatment matters related to Fluoride from the agency that regulates potable water treatment –
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
(CDPHE). Water utilities across the U.S. and state regulatory agencies such as CDPHE are advised by
US Environmental Protection Agency
and
Centers for Disease Control
on the use of Fluoride in potable water treatment.
For more information, visit CDPHE’s webpage on
Community Water Fluoridation
.
Learn more about the quality of Longmont’s drinking water in our annual
Water Quality Report
.
Water is a precious resource in Colorado and everyone needs to do their part to make sure that this resource is not wasted. The City of Longmont is concerned about wasting water and has an ordinance requiring all property owners to control the water use on their lot or building site.
The ordinance reads: “Customers shall not cause or permit water to run to waste in any gutter or other impervious surface. Waste shall constitute the use of water serving no beneficial use, and not constituting an unavoidable consequence of the beneficial usage of water”.
With proper attention to watering and other outside uses, all residents can do their part to make sure that water is used properly and efficiently. If you are aware of a property or building site where water is being wasted, you can report it to the City by calling
Water Utilities
. You can also call this number if you have questions about the City ordinance or general questions about wasting water.
Every drop counts, use only what you need. The City of Longmont offers many tips, programs and rebates for water saving efforts. Learn more on our
Water Conservation
webpage.
The City publishes an annual Water Quality Report, which provides information about Longmont’s drinking water and the results of the thousands of tests performed on the water during the year. View the latest report on our
Drinking Water
webpage.
A wastewater treatment plant:
Removes Solids – This includes everything from rags and sticks to sand and smaller particles found in wastewater.
Reduces Organic Matter and Pollutants – Helpful bacteria and other microorganisms are used to consume organic matter in wastewater. The bacteria and microorganisms are then separated from the water.
Learn about the many steps involved in treatment and see pictures on our
Wastewater Treatment
page.
For all metered residential users who irrigate lawn or other landscaping during the months of March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November, the sewer use charge on bills rendered during those months may be adjusted to the average monthly charges of the preceding January, February and March sewer utility billings. New residents, or residents moving to new premises, will be charged based upon either the city-wide, single-family residential winter quarter average (5,500 gallons) or their monthly usage, whichever is lower, until they establish their own winter quarter average (WQA) history.
In order to ensure that your tap water is safe to drink, the Environmental Protection Agency prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by Longmont and other public water systems. The City’s water treatment plants reduce any contaminants in the source waters to levels that meet, and usually surpass, all Federal and State requirements.
Learn more about Longmont’s drinking water and review the
Annual Water Quality Report
.
You can check whether or not your house lies in the floodplain by checking on the
FEMA website
at the Map Service Center. If you have further questions, please visit
Flood Plain Development Permits
.
When buildings are unoccupied for extended periods of time and water is not being regularly used, the water can sit and become stagnant. When this happens, such as during business shutdowns related to COVID-19, water quality may degrade over time.
The City of Longmont is sharing these guidelines for businesses on how to clear or flush the water in their internal water systems before reoccupying a building.
Longmont charges users of the City’s water and sewer systems rates and fees which are determined by the type of user. These rates and fees pay for the facilities and personnel that provide water and wastewater services to residents. To learn more please visit out
Rates and Fees
webpage.
The St. Vrain Watershed and the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. Learn more on our
Water Supply
webpage.
The City of Longmont operates two Conventional Filtration Surface Water Treatment Plants (WTP): The Nelson-Flanders WTP, which is rated to produce 40 million gallons per day, and the Wade Gaddis WTP, a peaking plant, rated to produce 14.75 MGD.
The Wade Gaddis WTP is only used in case of an emergency. It will permanently decommissioned once the Nelson Flanders WTP is expanded to replace the Wade Gaddis capacity. That project is expected to be completed in 2023.
The City of Longmont operates an Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Facility rated at 14 million gallons per day (MGD) average day annual flow.
Dispose of household products safely. Don’t pour solvents, pesticides, paint thinners, engine oil, or household cleaning products with hazardous chemicals down the drain or into a storm sewer. Take them to a recycling center or
hazardous waste collection site
.
Summer presents the highest demands for the treated water supply. Demand from outdoor sprinkler systems and other seasonal use requires the water treatment plant to produce upwards of 30 million gallons per day. When irrigation is not in use, the typical plant production needed is around 7 to 8 million gallons per day.
Learn more about how you can conserve water year-round on our
Water Conservation
webpage.
The City of Longmont does not administer or regulate rain barrels. That is accomplished at the state level by the State Engineers Office.
A great resource Colorado State University’s website, which explains the entire process:
https://source.colostate.edu/extension-offers-fact-sheet-on-how-to-harvest-rainwater-under-new-colorado-rules/
Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir are owned and maintained by the City of Longmont. Each year a limited number of permits are issued for fishing at Ralph Price Reservoir. For more information, please visit the
Ralph Price Reservoir Fishing Program
webpage.
Odor can come from the influent wastewater or from different treatment processes at the wastewater treatment plant. To combat the odors, tanks and other structures are covered which allows the air inside of them to be collected so it can be treated for odor before releasing it to the atmosphere. To report odor complaints, please contact the
Wastewater Treatment Plant
.
Longmont’s water originates high in the Rocky Mountains primarily as snow. As the snow melts, it runs down the St. Vrain Creek and is either stored in Ralph Price Reservoir for later use, or diverted into pipelines below Longmont Dam for immediate delivery to the water treatment plants. Additional water originates on the Western Slope from the Colorado River and is delivered via the Colorado-Big Thompson Project (C-BT) – through the Alva B. Adams tunnel, through Lake Estes and Carter Lake, then down the St. Vrain Supply Canal into Longmont’s water treatment plants. After water is treated at the water plants, it is delivered through transmission pipelines and treated water storage tanks to distribution pipelines. These pipelines are located under city streets and alleys and connect to service lines that provide water to homes and businesses. For more detailed information, please visit our
Water Supply
webpage.
Homes – human and household wastes from toilets, sinks, baths, and drains.
Industry, Schools, and Businesses – chemicals and other wastes from factories, food-service operations, airports, shopping centers, etc.
On average, each person in the U.S. contributes 50-100 gallons of wastewater daily.
If you do not have water or are experiencing very low pressure at your residence or business during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact
Water Utilities
. After hours, please call Longmont
Public Safety Dispatch
.
If you are experiencing sluggish drains or a sewer backup in your house or business, there could be a blockage in your service line or in the main sewer line. The City can check this to determine where the problem may be occurring and what action needs to be taken. Contact
Water Utilities
Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. After hours call, please call
Longmont Police Dispatch
, and they will notify a utility technician to respond to your call.
Learn more about
sewer lines
, who is responsible, and how you can prevent problems on our Sewer Lines webpage.
Water Rights for Longmont are acquired primarily through implementation of the Raw Water Requirement Policy. This policy can be found at section 14.05 of the Longmont
municipal code
. For additional detailed information please contact the
Water Resources Division
.
If you are experiencing problems with your water meter, please contact
Water Utilities
Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. For after hours emergencies involving a meter, please call Longmont
Public Safety Dispatch
.
To report a suspected water main break during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact
Water Utilities
. After hours, please call
Longmont Police Dispatch
.
Water and sanitary sewer service is provided within the existing City limits. The City also plans to provide future water and sanitary sewer service to the Municipal Service Area and the Longmont Planning Area. For more information regarding the City’s specific service areas, contact Water Utilities. There are three additional service providers in the area.
Left Hand Water District
generally provides water service to areas southwest, south and southeast of the City’s service area.
Longs Peak Water District
generally provides water service to areas northwest, north and northeast of the City’s service area.
St. Vrain Sanitation District
generally provides sanitary sewer service to areas east of the City’s service area.
Chlorination is a necessary step in the treatment of potable water. Chlorine is applied to the filtered water at the water treatment plant to kill disease-causing pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoans. At certain times of the year water conditions may cause chlorine odors to be more prevalent.
Learn more on our
Drinking Water Treatment
webpage.
Drinking water in your home or business may occasionally become discolored or cloudy because of changes in flow disturbing the sediment in the water pipes. These problems are often caused by water main breaks, fire hydrant use, or installation of new water lines. Even though the water may not look clear, it is safe to drink. In many cases, running the cold water tap for a few minutes will remove the discoloration from the water. If you have tried this and the problem persists, please contact
Water Utilities
between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday. After hours or on weekends you can call Longmont
Police Dispatch
. In addition to discolored water, you may notice seasonal changes in the taste or odor of the water. If you have concerns or questions about this, please call the
Water Quality Lab
.
Water Line Replacement
Water line tie-in:
Due to the involved nature of a water line tie-in these operations typically take a full working day up to 8 hours.
Service tap:
1 hour
Water services will be turned off for water line tie-ins or service taps. Each customer affected by the shutdown will receive a door hanger 48 hours in advance.
Your water line is being replaced as part of citywide water line replacement maintenance program. The maintenance program identifies pipes that are older or prone to failure and replaces them to ensure a safe and efficient treated water distribution system.
The contractor should only be digging in front your house for 1 or 2 days. Contractor or City personnel will knock before your driveway is blocked to give you time to move your vehicles.
Water service is only turned off for connections and is restored on the same day. Customers will have water service for the majority of the construction.
Trash, recycling and composting will be picked up at 7 a.m. on your regularly scheduled collection day.
Watering Restrictions
All information on Longmont’s current drought status and response plan is located on the Water Resources & Supply page.
Each watershed area in the state is unique. Also, Colorado water law dictates have water rights can be used within the state. Longmont resides within the St. Vrain watershed area and is fortunate to own several senior water rights in that basin. Because of these facts Longmont, among others, the effect of a state-wide severe drought often impacts Longmont to a lesser extent than it does other communities. So in other words, it might be extremely dry in southern Colorado, however that does not directly impact Longmont’s ability to use its water rights. Alternatively, a neighboring community may not have developed its water rights portfolio to the same extent that Longmont has and therefore that community may require implementing more stringent water restrictions than Longmont. Longmont is fortunate to have had a history of City Council and staff that shared a long-term vision for the need for water to serve its community and residents who have helped provide the financial resources necessary to realize that vision.
To help support an ongoing water supply, even when we are at a sustainable conservation level, the City still works to promote and encourage water conservation.
Learn more on the City’s water conservation page.
Depending on the severity of drought and other factors such as current reservoir water supplies, soil moisture content and temperature, the City will have different responses to drought. When the City is no longer at a sustainable conservation level, staff follows the City of Longmont Water Supply and Drought Management Plan.
To learn what level of drought we are currently in visit the Water Resources & Supply page.
Even when we are not in a drought, we all can take steps to conserve water.
Learn more on the City’s water conservation page.
Wasting water is the use of water which results in water being utilized in a wasteful or inefficient manner, and serving no beneficial use. Water waste includes allowing water intended for irrigation to pool or to run off onto streets and sidewalks or into drainage facilities; failure to shut off or repair a leaking irrigation system within 24 hours; letting water run unrestricted from a hose or faucet to drainage.
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Water
Contact
Submit a Service Request
(303) 651-8416
Hours of Operation
Monday – Friday, 8 am to 5 pm
Location
Civic Center
350 Kimbark St.
Longmont, CO 80501
The Water Department is dedicated to managing Longmont’s water supply, treatment, distribution, and quality control. Our mission is to provide residents with clean, reliable, and sustainable water services. We are committed to maintaining high water quality standards, promoting conservation efforts, and ensuring efficient management of the city’s water resources.
Explore Water Services
Flood Information
Rates and Fees – Water, Storm, Sewer
Rebates – Electric
Service Requests
Sewer Lines
Stormwater & Drainage
Wastewater Treatment
Water Conservation
Water Line Replacement
Water Meter Maintenance Program
Water Resources & Supply
Water Initiatives
Drinking Water
Longmont’s drinking water is safe for you to use and the water treatment and delivery system is sound, ensuring you have a continuous and uninterrupted supply of drinking water every day.
Water Conservation
Sustainable Water use in Longmont is as important as ever. Learn the importance of conserving water and programs to offer rebates and discounts to help you continue in that goal.
Water Resources & Supply
Learn where all of Longmont’s drinking water comes from, how they arrive here and the processes they take in their journey to your home.
Rates and Fees – Water, Storm, Sewer
Check out the City's rates and fees schedule for all of the different water utilities and how your utility bill will be impacted.
Sewer Lines
Learn about your sewer service line, your responsibilities and how to prevent and report any problems.
Wastewater Treatment
Learn about the six major types of treatment processes at the Wastewater Treatment plant and how these processes are integrated to treat wastewater so that our community can thrive without creating negative impacts to the St. Vrain River.
Flood Information
Check if your home is in the mapped floodplain, your flood insurance requirements and options, and how to prepare in case of a flood.
Stormwater Quality & Drainage
Learn how the City rehabilitates and improves existing stormwater facilities and helps to protect the rivers, lakes and streams that flow through our community.
Water Services Documents & Brochures
2023 Water Quality Report
The annual Water Quality Report provides detailed information about Longmont's drinking water and the rigorous testing and monitoring practices we follow to ensure the highest water quality standards for all residents.
Flood Awareness Brochure
If your Land is in the 100-Year Floodplain, you and your property are at risk. Find more information here about determining your flood risk, protecting
your property and changing requirements for flood insurance.
Ten Years After the Flood
A Story of Recovery and Resilience
Report a Problem
To report the following during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact Water Utilities at (303) 651-8416. After hours, please call Longmont Public Safety Dispatch.
Suspected water main break
Flooding
Very low water pressure
No water service
Sewer backup in home/business
Contact Us
Contact us regarding general inquiries and service requests. Calls are answered between 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday. You can also submit non-urgent requests online through
ServiceWorks
.
Stormwater Quality Program
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
stormwater@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Conservation
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
hope.bartlett@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Quality Lab
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterlab@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Resources
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterresources@longmontcolorado.gov
Water Utilities
Phone:
(303) 651-8416
Email:
waterutilities@longmontcolorado.gov
Frequently Asked Questions
Backflow Prevention
Please contact
Water Utilities
and a water representative will help you.
At this time, testers have two options to submit backflow tests to the City of Longmont:
Complete the
Backflow Assembly Test & Maintenance Report
online.
Or you can choose one of the following paper forms,
PDF Form
Word Doc Form
Excel Doc Form
please make sure to fill it out and submit it by sending as an attachment in an email to Email the results to
backflow@LongmontColorado.gov
If you need additional help or have any questions, please contact
Water Utilities
.
Water Utilities currently uses a database system to track backflow device installation and test results.
A survey of certified inspectors was done, and the average cost was $50 to $100.
Please contact
Water Utilities
and a water representative will help you.
A technician who is certified in backflow assembly testing. The certification needs to be through American Backflow Prevention Association or American Society of Sanitary Engineering. The
Backflow Prevention Education Council of Colorado
provides a list of technicians who are certified by one or both of these organizations and we provide a
list of backflow assembly testers
for general information.
The Safe Drinking Water Act and the State of Colorado mandate that water suppliers develop and maintain a Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control program. Neither entities have developed specific programs, but the State has outlined requirements for the program.
Property owners own the backflow devices on their property.
In an effort to be in compliance with new backflow regulations from the State, the City is attempting to determine the responsible party for the maintenance and testing of backflow devices. Additionally, the City has changed a process in billing allowing customers to now be able to view their water consumption on their monthly water bill.
No, the City will continue to provide water at no charge for customers who maintain City arterial right-of-way areas as part of an effort to Keep Longmont beautiful.
Utilities & Public Works and Parks & Natural Resources
Union Reservoir was constructed “on top of” a natural lake called Calkins Lake. The lake was named for or by Longmont’s first engineer, Benjamin Calkins. It was a natural depression that was presumably deepened and enlarged over time by bison herds that used the natural low spot for watering and wallowing in.
Other notable reservoirs constructed on top of natural lakes are found at McIntosh Lake, Burch Lake and McCall Lake. McCall Lake Reservoir was actually constructed over the top of two natural lakes, making the single reservoir.
Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of the water service line from their property line to their house foundation. It is rare that these lines fail. Residents may, however, be approached by private companies offering insurance plans on water service lines entering their homes. Such companies are not associated with the City, and the need for insurance is at the discretion of the owner. If you have questions, please contact
Water Utilities
.
Fluoridation of Longmont’s water supply was approved in 1958 and continues today. It is a safe and approved practice, and the City uses fluoride products that meet industry standards for drinking water treatment additives. Longmont and other water utilities in Colorado take guidance on treatment matters related to Fluoride from the agency that regulates potable water treatment –
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
(CDPHE). Water utilities across the U.S. and state regulatory agencies such as CDPHE are advised by
US Environmental Protection Agency
and
Centers for Disease Control
on the use of Fluoride in potable water treatment.
For more information, visit CDPHE’s webpage on
Community Water Fluoridation
.
Learn more about the quality of Longmont’s drinking water in our annual
Water Quality Report
.
Water is a precious resource in Colorado and everyone needs to do their part to make sure that this resource is not wasted. The City of Longmont is concerned about wasting water and has an ordinance requiring all property owners to control the water use on their lot or building site.
The ordinance reads: “Customers shall not cause or permit water to run to waste in any gutter or other impervious surface. Waste shall constitute the use of water serving no beneficial use, and not constituting an unavoidable consequence of the beneficial usage of water”.
With proper attention to watering and other outside uses, all residents can do their part to make sure that water is used properly and efficiently. If you are aware of a property or building site where water is being wasted, you can report it to the City by calling
Water Utilities
. You can also call this number if you have questions about the City ordinance or general questions about wasting water.
Every drop counts, use only what you need. The City of Longmont offers many tips, programs and rebates for water saving efforts. Learn more on our
Water Conservation
webpage.
The City publishes an annual Water Quality Report, which provides information about Longmont’s drinking water and the results of the thousands of tests performed on the water during the year. View the latest report on our
Drinking Water
webpage.
A wastewater treatment plant:
Removes Solids – This includes everything from rags and sticks to sand and smaller particles found in wastewater.
Reduces Organic Matter and Pollutants – Helpful bacteria and other microorganisms are used to consume organic matter in wastewater. The bacteria and microorganisms are then separated from the water.
Learn about the many steps involved in treatment and see pictures on our
Wastewater Treatment
page.
For all metered residential users who irrigate lawn or other landscaping during the months of March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October and November, the sewer use charge on bills rendered during those months may be adjusted to the average monthly charges of the preceding January, February and March sewer utility billings. New residents, or residents moving to new premises, will be charged based upon either the city-wide, single-family residential winter quarter average (5,500 gallons) or their monthly usage, whichever is lower, until they establish their own winter quarter average (WQA) history.
In order to ensure that your tap water is safe to drink, the Environmental Protection Agency prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by Longmont and other public water systems. The City’s water treatment plants reduce any contaminants in the source waters to levels that meet, and usually surpass, all Federal and State requirements.
Learn more about Longmont’s drinking water and review the
Annual Water Quality Report
.
You can check whether or not your house lies in the floodplain by checking on the
FEMA website
at the Map Service Center. If you have further questions, please visit
Flood Plain Development Permits
.
When buildings are unoccupied for extended periods of time and water is not being regularly used, the water can sit and become stagnant. When this happens, such as during business shutdowns related to COVID-19, water quality may degrade over time.
The City of Longmont is sharing these guidelines for businesses on how to clear or flush the water in their internal water systems before reoccupying a building.
Longmont charges users of the City’s water and sewer systems rates and fees which are determined by the type of user. These rates and fees pay for the facilities and personnel that provide water and wastewater services to residents. To learn more please visit out
Rates and Fees
webpage.
The St. Vrain Watershed and the Colorado-Big Thompson Project. Learn more on our
Water Supply
webpage.
The City of Longmont operates two Conventional Filtration Surface Water Treatment Plants (WTP): The Nelson-Flanders WTP, which is rated to produce 40 million gallons per day, and the Wade Gaddis WTP, a peaking plant, rated to produce 14.75 MGD.
The Wade Gaddis WTP is only used in case of an emergency. It will permanently decommissioned once the Nelson Flanders WTP is expanded to replace the Wade Gaddis capacity. That project is expected to be completed in 2023.
The City of Longmont operates an Activated Sludge Wastewater Treatment Facility rated at 14 million gallons per day (MGD) average day annual flow.
Dispose of household products safely. Don’t pour solvents, pesticides, paint thinners, engine oil, or household cleaning products with hazardous chemicals down the drain or into a storm sewer. Take them to a recycling center or
hazardous waste collection site
.
Summer presents the highest demands for the treated water supply. Demand from outdoor sprinkler systems and other seasonal use requires the water treatment plant to produce upwards of 30 million gallons per day. When irrigation is not in use, the typical plant production needed is around 7 to 8 million gallons per day.
Learn more about how you can conserve water year-round on our
Water Conservation
webpage.
The City of Longmont does not administer or regulate rain barrels. That is accomplished at the state level by the State Engineers Office.
A great resource Colorado State University’s website, which explains the entire process:
https://source.colostate.edu/extension-offers-fact-sheet-on-how-to-harvest-rainwater-under-new-colorado-rules/
Button Rock Preserve and Ralph Price Reservoir are owned and maintained by the City of Longmont. Each year a limited number of permits are issued for fishing at Ralph Price Reservoir. For more information, please visit the
Ralph Price Reservoir Fishing Program
webpage.
Odor can come from the influent wastewater or from different treatment processes at the wastewater treatment plant. To combat the odors, tanks and other structures are covered which allows the air inside of them to be collected so it can be treated for odor before releasing it to the atmosphere. To report odor complaints, please contact the
Wastewater Treatment Plant
.
Longmont’s water originates high in the Rocky Mountains primarily as snow. As the snow melts, it runs down the St. Vrain Creek and is either stored in Ralph Price Reservoir for later use, or diverted into pipelines below Longmont Dam for immediate delivery to the water treatment plants. Additional water originates on the Western Slope from the Colorado River and is delivered via the Colorado-Big Thompson Project (C-BT) – through the Alva B. Adams tunnel, through Lake Estes and Carter Lake, then down the St. Vrain Supply Canal into Longmont’s water treatment plants. After water is treated at the water plants, it is delivered through transmission pipelines and treated water storage tanks to distribution pipelines. These pipelines are located under city streets and alleys and connect to service lines that provide water to homes and businesses. For more detailed information, please visit our
Water Supply
webpage.
Homes – human and household wastes from toilets, sinks, baths, and drains.
Industry, Schools, and Businesses – chemicals and other wastes from factories, food-service operations, airports, shopping centers, etc.
On average, each person in the U.S. contributes 50-100 gallons of wastewater daily.
If you do not have water or are experiencing very low pressure at your residence or business during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact
Water Utilities
. After hours, please call Longmont
Public Safety Dispatch
.
If you are experiencing sluggish drains or a sewer backup in your house or business, there could be a blockage in your service line or in the main sewer line. The City can check this to determine where the problem may be occurring and what action needs to be taken. Contact
Water Utilities
Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. After hours call, please call
Longmont Police Dispatch
, and they will notify a utility technician to respond to your call.
Learn more about
sewer lines
, who is responsible, and how you can prevent problems on our Sewer Lines webpage.
Water Rights for Longmont are acquired primarily through implementation of the Raw Water Requirement Policy. This policy can be found at section 14.05 of the Longmont
municipal code
. For additional detailed information please contact the
Water Resources Division
.
If you are experiencing problems with your water meter, please contact
Water Utilities
Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm. For after hours emergencies involving a meter, please call Longmont
Public Safety Dispatch
.
To report a suspected water main break during the hours of 8 am – 5 pm, Monday through Friday, please contact
Water Utilities
. After hours, please call
Longmont Police Dispatch
.
Water and sanitary sewer service is provided within the existing City limits. The City also plans to provide future water and sanitary sewer service to the Municipal Service Area and the Longmont Planning Area. For more information regarding the City’s specific service areas, contact Water Utilities. There are three additional service providers in the area.
Left Hand Water District
generally provides water service to areas southwest, south and southeast of the City’s service area.
Longs Peak Water District
generally provides water service to areas northwest, north and northeast of the City’s service area.
St. Vrain Sanitation District
generally provides sanitary sewer service to areas east of the City’s service area.
Chlorination is a necessary step in the treatment of potable water. Chlorine is applied to the filtered water at the water treatment plant to kill disease-causing pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoans. At certain times of the year water conditions may cause chlorine odors to be more prevalent.
Learn more on our
Drinking Water Treatment
webpage.
Drinking water in your home or business may occasionally become discolored or cloudy because of changes in flow disturbing the sediment in the water pipes. These problems are often caused by water main breaks, fire hydrant use, or installation of new water lines. Even though the water may not look clear, it is safe to drink. In many cases, running the cold water tap for a few minutes will remove the discoloration from the water. If you have tried this and the problem persists, please contact
Water Utilities
between 8 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday. After hours or on weekends you can call Longmont
Police Dispatch
. In addition to discolored water, you may notice seasonal changes in the taste or odor of the water. If you have concerns or questions about this, please call the
Water Quality Lab
.
Water Line Replacement
Water line tie-in:
Due to the involved nature of a water line tie-in these operations typically take a full working day up to 8 hours.
Service tap:
1 hour
Water services will be turned off for water line tie-ins or service taps. Each customer affected by the shutdown will receive a door hanger 48 hours in advance.
Your water line is being replaced as part of citywide water line replacement maintenance program. The maintenance program identifies pipes that are older or prone to failure and replaces them to ensure a safe and efficient treated water distribution system.
The contractor should only be digging in front your house for 1 or 2 days. Contractor or City personnel will knock before your driveway is blocked to give you time to move your vehicles.
Water service is only turned off for connections and is restored on the same day. Customers will have water service for the majority of the construction.
Trash, recycling and composting will be picked up at 7 a.m. on your regularly scheduled collection day.
Watering Restrictions
All information on Longmont’s current drought status and response plan is located on the Water Resources & Supply page.
Each watershed area in the state is unique. Also, Colorado water law dictates have water rights can be used within the state. Longmont resides within the St. Vrain watershed area and is fortunate to own several senior water rights in that basin. Because of these facts Longmont, among others, the effect of a state-wide severe drought often impacts Longmont to a lesser extent than it does other communities. So in other words, it might be extremely dry in southern Colorado, however that does not directly impact Longmont’s ability to use its water rights. Alternatively, a neighboring community may not have developed its water rights portfolio to the same extent that Longmont has and therefore that community may require implementing more stringent water restrictions than Longmont. Longmont is fortunate to have had a history of City Council and staff that shared a long-term vision for the need for water to serve its community and residents who have helped provide the financial resources necessary to realize that vision.
To help support an ongoing water supply, even when we are at a sustainable conservation level, the City still works to promote and encourage water conservation.
Learn more on the City’s water conservation page.
Depending on the severity of drought and other factors such as current reservoir water supplies, soil moisture content and temperature, the City will have different responses to drought. When the City is no longer at a sustainable conservation level, staff follows the City of Longmont Water Supply and Drought Management Plan.
To learn what level of drought we are currently in visit the Water Resources & Supply page.
Even when we are not in a drought, we all can take steps to conserve water.
Learn more on the City’s water conservation page.
Wasting water is the use of water which results in water being utilized in a wasteful or inefficient manner, and serving no beneficial use. Water waste includes allowing water intended for irrigation to pool or to run off onto streets and sidewalks or into drainage facilities; failure to shut off or repair a leaking irrigation system within 24 hours; letting water run unrestricted from a hose or faucet to drainage.
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