On November 1, 2026, Ordinance 72168 went into effect.

What does the ordinance do?

Addresses aging infrastructure
Improves billing accuracy
Modernizes the City’s water management

What does it mean to you?

Water meter installation will now be required:

on all NEW construction
on all rehabilitation projects requiring a NEW service line
all NEW service line connections and replacements

Who is NOT affected?

Existing flat-rate customers not performing major rehab or repairs requiring new water service lines

This is just one more important step in our mission to provide safe, reliable, and economical drinking water to all who live, work, and play in St. Louis.

Routine, Federally-Mandated Lead Letters Mailed

Soon, you may be receiving a routine, federally-mandated letter informing you of the potential dangers of lead. These are in no way meant to alarm or indicate any risk to you or your home. As stated, these are completely routine, and required.

As always, we are proud to inform you that your water is safe to drink!

Still, your assistance is being requested to help us complete our inventory of the service lines in our water distribution system.

How you can help

Identify the material of your service line.
Report your findings at quality@stlwater.com or call us at (314) 771-2255
Then, rest assured that the stringent corrosion control strategies in our water treatment process ensure that we continue to provide the safest possible drinking water to our customers.

Tornado Recovery Assistance Available

Enrollment is open through October 31, offering a 50% water rate reduction through December 2028 and a 50% credit on delinquent balances since May 2025.

Residents can enroll online below or apply in person by visiting the STLRecovers Outreach Center at 4401 Natural Bridge. If you have any questions about our assistance programs, contact the Water Division at (314) 771-2255.

The St. Louis Water Temporary Assistance Program also remains available, providing up to a $500 credit toward delinquent balances for households impacted by COVID-19. Applications are due by September 30.

City of St. Louis

Water Division

Yesterday. Today. Tomorrow.

What is the difference between a “Boil Water Advisory” and a “Boil Water Order”?

Education & How-To, Water Quality & Safety, Water U

Question: What is the difference between a “Boil Water Advisory” and a “Boil Water Order”?

Answer: A precautionary notice is issued when there is the potential for contamination whereas a mandatory notice (an “order”) is issued when there is known contamination of the water supply.

Now you know.