Water Rates

Proposed water rate adjustment 

While Tustin WatGraphic showing that the water rates are coming in Januaryer Services always strives to minimize rate increases, a water rate adjustment is needed to cover increasing costs associated with the purchase of more imported water, as well as rising operating and energy costs. After conducting a comprehensive, cost-of-service study to make sure proposed rates accurately reflect the actual cost of providing water service, the City determined a water rate adjustment was needed. All revenues collected through water rates will be used to cover the costs needed to deliver water service to the Tustin water service area. Learn more about PFAS.

Why is a rate adjustment needed?  

Historically, the City is fortunate to receive most of its water from local groundwater aquifers. However, due to new state drinking water standards related to *Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the City has had to turn off several groundwater wells and replace that water supply with imported water from distant sources like the Colorado River and the State Water Project, which is substantially more expensive. The construction of a new water treatment plant will address PFAS concerns in our local groundwater supply. The proposed adjustment in water rates will ensure that Tustin Water Services is financially stable and able to continue investing in future infrastructure projects that support the City’s mission to deliver high-quality and reliable water services to the Tustin community. These projects allow the City to:

Graphic showing the different water projects in the City.

*Learn more about PFAS.


The City will host three meetings where members of the community can get more information about the proposed rates and the rate adjustment process. We encourage you to attend and be part of the process.

Water Rate Timeline


Get involved 

The City of Tustin is committed to proactive, two-way communication throughout the rate adjustment process to maximize awareness and minimize public uncertainty.