Water & Sewer

How could I have used this much water?

Check These Common Causes First

Even small leaks can add up quickly, and larger leaks can waste thousands of gallons per day. Before assuming a major issue, please review the following common causes:

• Running toilets – can use up to 200 gallons per day
• Leaky faucets – a slow drip can waste up to 20 gallons per day
• Irrigation system leaks – broken lines can waste hundreds of gallons
• Water-cooled appliances – may use more water than expected
• Leaking water heaters – often go unnoticed but can be costly

In some cases, unusual usage may be due to a simple issue such as a misread or transposed meter reading. There may also be a hidden leak, such as a running toilet or a slow faucet drip that is difficult to detect.

If you have concerns about your water usage, please contact the office. We are happy to work with you to identify and resolve the issue.

Can someone help me create an online payment portal account?

Yes. You may visit the Library, where staff will be happy to assist you with registering for the online payment portal.

I will be moving soon and would like to know what steps I need to take regarding my water and sewer

The individual(s) listed on the account are responsible for notifying the clerk of their move-out date. Please contact our office several days in advance of your move to ensure adequate time to process your final bill.

If you are the property owner and wish to have water service discontinued, please contact our office directly to arrange this request. Please note that any outstanding balance left by a renter is the responsibility of the property owner.

Why do I have a $2 DEQ fee on my water bill?

The $2 fee is an ANNUAL fee that the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) charges its public water supply systems. DEQ charges the Town of Ennis $2 per user annually. This fee began in 1991 after the Montana Legislature voted to implement the fee.
Part of the legislative language reads: “in support of the Public Water Supply Program, which assures all sampling and monitoring is completed; performing required inspections and providing technical assistance outreach on compliance issues and for providing and supporting training for certified operators; annual monitoring schedules; enforcing, implementing, and managing federal drinking water regulations”.
The Town of Ennis has no choice but to charge this annual fee as required by law, and that is why once a year, in December, you will see a $2 DEQ fee on your water bill.

When are the water meters read?

Water meters are read around the 20th of each month. If you move out before that date—for example, on the 12th—we will take a final meter reading on your move-out date and prorate your water and sewer bill accordingly.

Billing is based on actual usage from the previous reading (around the 20th of the prior month) to the most recent reading.