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1. Who can test my backflow assembly?

Testing can only be performed by a Washington State Department of Health certified backflow tester. A copy of the test report must be sent to the District and a copy should be maintained in your personal files.

2. How often must I have my backflow assembly tested?

All backflow assemblies must be tested upon installation, after any repairs, if moved to a new location, and annually thereafter.

3. What is a cross connection?

A cross connection is a point in the plumbing system where the potable (drinkable) water supply is connected directly or can be connected directly to a non-potable source.

4. Where are cross connections found?

A cross connection exists wherever the potable water supply is connected to a plumbing fixture. However, most new fixtures have built-in protections to avoid a cross connection. Commonly found cross connections can occur in hose spigots, irrigation sprinkler systems, boilers, swimming pools, fire sprinkler systems and auxiliary water supplies.

5. What causes a cross connection?

A cross connection may occur due to backflow caused by unprotected fixtures that are subjected to backsiphonage or backpressure. Backsiphonage is caused by a negative or reduced pressure in the supply line to a facility or plumbing fixture. Backpressure may cause backflow to occur whenever a potable water system is connected to another system at a higher pressure.

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1. How often do the Commissioners meet?

The Board of Commissioners meets on the first, second, and third Mondays of the month. If a meeting falls on a holiday, the meeting will be moved to the fourth Monday of the month. From time to time a meeting may be cancelled. Please check our website for the most up-to-date information. We welcome the public at all of our meetings.

2. When and where do the Board of Commissioners meet?

Commissioner meetings begin at 3:30 p.m. unless otherwise posted. Meetings are hybrid and the public is welcome to attend in-person at the District Office in the Commissioner's Room, or virtually using the Zoom meeting platform. Remote meeting access information is included on the meetings agendas posted in the Board Agenda, Packets and Minutes Center.

3. When are agendas prepared for the Commissioner meetings?

Agendas are prepared during the week in advance of a scheduled meeting and are posted to the District's website by the end of the business day on Friday.

View agendas.

4. How do I schedule an appearance before the Board of Commissioners?

Those interested in making an appearance before the Board of Commissioners can contact the General Manager at 425.392.6256 or the Executive Assistant at 425.295.3218. In addition, you can also complete a Request to Appear Before the Board.

5. What format should be used to submit information to the Board of Commissioners?

Information can be submitted on standard 8-1/2 inch by 11 inch paper. Copies will be made when the Commissioner Packets are prepared.

6. Can the Commissioners be contacted via the internet?

Yes. You will find their contact information on their individual pages under "About Us".

Commissioner's page.

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1. Where does my water come from?

The District's water supply comes from groundwater wells and purchased regional water from Seattle Public Utilities. 

2. How do I contact a city/county department?

Visit the Staff Directory to find all department and staff contact information.

3. Sample Question

You can find information on Agendas/Minutes Here.

4. Can I apply online?

answer here

5. Where can I sign up for utilities?

Answer here

6. Where can I find the answers to my frequently asked questions?

Use the FAQs module to easily find answers to the questions you ask the most.

7. Do I have to license my pets?

Answer here.

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1. How do I report street light outages?

Even though we bill you for streetlights, Puget Sound Energy maintains them. Please report all street light outages to Puget Sound Energy. 

You can report the outage online.

2. Will the District repair my leaks?

Sammamish Plateau Water repairs leaks in the water mains and service lines up to the meter, including the meter and meter setter. The homeowner must repair any leaks that occur at and after the plumbing connection to the meter setter, including the service line to your home.

3. Why do I get two bills from two different water and sewer districts?

If you live in the northern end of the District, your sewer service is billed through the Northeast Sammamish Sewer and Water District, and we bill you for the water service. The sewer lines for Northeast Sammamish Sewer and Water District overlap our boundaries in this area. Please remember that there are two different districts when paying your bills and look carefully at each bill to ensure that your are sending your bill to the appropriate agency.

4. Why am I being charged three different fees for sewer?

Each charge is for a different item. You pay the residential sewer charge to Sammamish Plateau Water to maintain the sewer pipes and facilities that remove wastewater from your home. The King County Wastewater Treatment charge covers King County's costs to treat and dispose of your sewage. You will find these two items on the bill you receive from Sammamish Plateau Water. King County also charges a sewer capacity charge for any home built after 1990. The sewer capacity charge pays for construction of infrastructure to enhance sewage treatment capacity to serve newly connected customers. The capacity charge ensures that all customers pay their share of the cost of capital improvements to provide them with sewage treatment service. You will receive a separate bill from King County for the sewer capacity charge. Please call King County at 206-296-1450 if you have questions about the sewer capacity charge.

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1. What is fluoride?

Fluoride comes from the element fluorine and occurs naturally in the environment. Water fluoridation is the adjustment of the natural fluoride levels to the level recommended for public health by the Washington State Administrative Code. The United States Public Health Service has conducted extensive research on fluoridation levels for public health.

2. Why do water providers add fluoride to their water supply?

The primary reason is that scientific research has concluded that the addition of fluoride to water supplies is an effective and inexpensive way to reduce oral disease and tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, the United States has over 50 years of practical experience with community water fluoridation.

3. How is fluoride added to the water supply?

The District is utilizing sodium fluoride to fluoridate the District’s water supply. Sodium fluoride comes in a granular form similar to salt. Dry sodium fluoride is poured into a drum of water, called a saturator tank, and a consistent water level is maintained. Water can only hold a certain amount of fluoride, so the water becomes saturated with the sodium fluoride. This fluoride solution is then metered into the distribution system.

4. How can I tell if I am in an area receiving fluoride?

Some areas in our northern area are not fluoridated because we share a tank with Northeast Sammamish Sewer and Water District and they do not fluoridate their water supply. You can also contact the District Customer Service Department at 425-392-6256 with your address and/or account number and we will let you know if your water is fluoridated. Fluoridation Zones Map (PDF)

5. Why are some areas of the District not fluoridated?

The District shares a storage tank with Northeast Sammamish Sewer and Water District (NESSWD). The NESSWD does not fluoridate their supply, so fluoride is not added to the water supplied to the area that utilizes the shared tank.

6. What if I don't want fluoride in my water?

We realize that not all of our customers want fluoride in their water for a variety of reasons. The District has a consultant’s report entitled “An Evaluation of Fluoride Removal Technologies for District Customers” which includes information about various strategies for fluoride removal, including comparisons of Point of Use (POU) and Point of Entry (POE) fluoride removal devices. Please contact us to get a copy of the report. If you choose to obtain and utilize a POU/POE device, please carefully follow all manufacturer operation and maintenance guidelines, including changing filters as necessary. Evaluation of Fluoride Removal (PDF)

7. Will the District reimburse me for costs I expend to install treatment devices to remove fluoride?

The District is unable to offer reimbursement to customers whom do not want fluoride in their water and purchase treatment devices or utilize other methods to obtain non-fluoridated water. The Washington State constitution prohibits the gifting of public funds and public property and reimbursement of such costs would be considered a “gifting” of public funds.

8. My dental care or health care provider has been giving our family fluoride supplements. Should I continue or stop using these supplements?

You should provide your dental and health care professional with information on whether you will be getting fluoride added to the water and let them determine the next course of action.

9. Where can I find more information about fluoridation?

District customers may obtain additional information regarding this issue from a number of sources. The Internet provides a source of information using standard search engines, although before accepting any information found on the Internet at face value, you should carefully consider the source of the information. Your review of any literature about fluoridation should include a thorough examination of the author’s background and credentials, where the research was conducted, the year the article was published, whether or not the article is specific to community water fluoridation, and the methods used to conduct the research. Customers should contact their dentist or health care professional for specific information about the effects of fluoridation based on your specific health situation and that of your family members.

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1. How do I apply for an opening?

Please look at job board and a fill in application is available

2. Do you have good benefits?

Why yes we do. We offer medical, dental, vision, long-term disability and life.

3. What is the average tenure?

Our average employee tenure is 12.8 years.

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1. How can I get water service for my undeveloped property?

First, you must determine whether available water is adjacent to your property or whether you would be required to get a water facilities extension. To make this determination, supply the property’s Tax Parcel ID Number to the District’s Developer Extension Coordinator at (425) 392-6256. The next step in obtaining water service is to obtain a Certificate through an application process. The applicant must pay fees before a water connection is made. The Water Applications for New Water, Certificates of Water Availability, and associated Developer Extension Agreements are available at the District's Offices at 1510 228th Avenue SE, Sammamish, WA 98075. Office hours are 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

2. What fees are necessary for a water connection?

Fees are determined for each property based on a number of factors, including meter size, installation fees, general facilities charges, and a local facilities charges. Contact the District's Developer Extension Coordinator at (425) 392-6256 to determine your specific fees. You may also complete and submit the following form:

Quote Request for Water and/or Sewer Service

3. How do I determine whether or where there is water or sewer in my area?

You may request water and sewer (as-built) information by completing the Public Records Request Form

4. Whom do I need to talk to about my project?

Depending on the scope of your project, you will contact different District staff members For a single family dwelling contact the District's Developer Extension Coordinator at (425) 392-6256. For short plats or plats, contact the District's Planning Engineer at (425)392-6256. For projects currently in design, contact the District's Engineering Manager at (425)392-6256.

5. How long does it take for plans to be reviewed?

The time frame for plans review is initiated with the payment of proper fees. Once the process is initiated, plans review normally is completed within 3 weeks.

6. How can I get information about projects in my area?

For further questions, contact the District's Engineering Manager at (425) 392-6256.

7. Am I required to have a backflow assembly?

A backflow assembly may or may not be required to prevent a cross connection, depending on your type of service. Backflow assemblies may include, but are not restricted to, fire sprinklers, irrigation systems, and all commercial facilities.

8. Who checks backflow assemblies once they are installed?

All backflow assemby tests must be performed by state certified companies.
The tester must provide a certification report to the District. Contact the Field Service Supervisor at (425)392-6256 for the latest District compliance standards for cross connections. A list of companies commonly used within the District is available to the public. Contact the Billing Department for further information on the latest list.

9. Can I dump construction water into the sewer?

No. Under special circumstances, the District may allow discharge into the sewer facilities, but it must be authorized in advance and a District employee must be present during the discharge.

10. Whom do I call if I have additional questions that are not covered here?

We suggest that you call us at (425) 392-6256, and you will be directed to the proper qualified individual who will answer your specific question.

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1. How is conservation reflected in my water rates?

Sammamish Plateau Water utilizes a conservation based rate structure. Customers pay a base rate, and then are billed for consumption in four rate blocks. The price per unit of consumption increases as users consume more water and move into the higher rate blocks. The pricing and rate structure are designed to ensure efficient use and to minimize water waste.

2. Why do we need to conserve water?

It is important to protect and conserve water because it is a precious, limited resource. Only 1% of all of the world's water is drinkable. You use water for basic necessities such as sanitation and cooking, and also for discretionary uses such as lawn watering, car washing and filling swimming pools. Water utilities must remain within certain legal limits as to how much water they can draw from their supply sources.

Increased population pressures place a greater demand on water resources. Conserving water means more water is available in the environment for fish and wildlife. Using water wisely ensures that we have a sufficient water supply for ourselves and for future generations.

3. Does saving water in the home really make a difference?

Using water wisely can make a big difference! Here are some examples:
- Fixing a leaky faucet can save up to 300 gallons per month.
- Running your clothes washer and dishwasher only when they are full can save up to 1,000 gallons per month.
- Installing a water efficient shower head can save up to 750 gallons a month.
- Repairing a toilet leak can save up to 1,000 gallons per month.
- Shorten you shower by a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons per month.
- High efficiency toilets of 1.28 gallons per flush can save you over 4,000 gallons per year.

Small changes can equal big savings! (Sources: Water Use it Wisely, U.S. EPA WaterSense Program.)

4. How much do I need to water my lawn to keep it green?

Most lawns in our area need only 1 inch of water a week to stay healthy.
- Water your lawn early in the morning or late at night, since most water applied during the heat of the day will be lost due to evaporation.
- Avoid watering pavement areas, since this is water (and money) down the drain.
- Water in short, repeated intervals to minimize runoff.
- Water deeply, but infrequently, since short daily watering can lead to shallow root systems in your lawn.
- Most dormant summer lawns will revive with the winter rains.
- Many lawn problems are caused by poor soil structure beneath the turf layer. Consider an annual aeration, topdressing and overseeding program to enhance your turf soil structure and reduce compaction.

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1. Who do I call in case of an emergency if I have a problem with my water or sewer?

Please call the District at (425) 392-6256 if you experience a water or sewer emergency. The District offers a 24-hour call out service. If the office is closed, you will hear a voice mail message with instructions directing you to a water or sewer emergency staff person.

2. What do I do if my sewer grinder pump alarm flashes and a horn sounds?

The grinder pump system is designed so that a light will flash and a horn will sound in the event of an operational problem. You will find a button to silence the alarm on the external portion of the electrical box. Push this button to turn off the horn and call the District at (425) 392-6256. A field person will respond to check out your system. Treat your grinder pump system with care! Put only biodegradable products down the drain. Try to use liquid dish soap and liquid laundry detergent. Do not place trash or debris into your system. Also, do not put large amounts of fats, oils, and greases down the drain, since this may cause your system to fail.

3. What do I do if I experience toilets or sinks that do not function normally?

If you experience toilets or sinks that do not drain as usual, and you have attempted unsuccessfully to clear the drain, you may call the District at (425) 392-6256 and a field person will come out to check the main sewer system.

4. What do I need to do before I dig on my property?

Before you dig on your property you should call 1-800-424-5555 to locate underground utilities prior to construction activity. Local utility companies will respond with in 48 working hours to mark the location of the utilities at no charge to the customer. This will prevent any lines from being damaged during construction. The "locate" marks are temporary and will disappear after some time.

5. Where does my wastewater go?

Wastewater, or sewage, flows to different areas depending on the facilities you have on your property. Wastewater that flows from properties connected to the regional wastewater sewage system is sent to the King County South Treatment Plant in Renton where it undergoes several treatment processes before being released through an outfall pipe into Puget Sound. Wastewater that flows from properties that utilize septic systems is recycled on the same property where it originates. In a septic system that is properly maintained, the waste is purified and returned to the groundwater. It is essential to maintain your septic system on a regular basis for maximum operational benefits. For septic system resources and information, visit King County Public Health or the Washington State Department of Health.

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1. Where is my water meter?

Most water meters are in the Right-of-Way at the edge of the road near the property line. Our crews have painted yellow lines on most of the streets or curbs, in-line with the meters to allow them to find the meters quickly while meter reading. It's good to know where your water meter is before an emergency situation.

2. How do I shut my water off?

If you have a leak, or are doing work on your plumbing system, you may need to shut off your main service line at your water meter. Please refer to the instructions to shut off your water meter. instructions to shut off your meter.

3. Do I have a leak?

It's a good idea to routinely check for water leaks in your plumbing system. These checks can save water and prevent a high bill and other problems. Please be advised that all leaks after the water meter are the homeowner's responsibility to repair.

Check for water leaks

4. Who do I call in an emergency?

If it is a water or sewer emergency, call the District's 24 hour hotline at 425-392-6256. Follow the prompts to leave a message on the Emergency Pager. Please:
- Speak clearly.
- Provide your name.
- Provide your address.
- Provide a call-back number.
- Briefly describe your emergency.

5. How close can I plant shrubs to the fire hydrant in my yard?

Fire hydrants are required at least every 300 feet for public safety. Firefighters require a 5-foot perimeter with no foliage or obstacles in order to easily access the hydrant in case of a fire. When planting near a hydrant, remember to consider the size the plants will be when they are fully grown.

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1. Where does the District get its water supply?

The District primarily gets its water supply from groundwater wells located throughout the District. The District is also connected to the regional water system operated by Seattle Public Utilities and managed through a contract with the Cascade Water Alliance.

2. Does the District add anything to my water?

The District currently chlorinates the groundwater for disinfection purposes and to resolve taste and odor issues. State and federal law requires surface water sources, including the water received by Sammamish Plateau Water from the regional system to be disinfected, and chlorine is added to the surface water supply. Fluoride is added to match levels found in the regional water supply to promote dental health.

3. Is the District's water hard or soft?

Water from the District’s groundwater supply is medium hard, and water from the regional water supply is soft. Water hardness refers to the amount of dissolved minerals in the water, primarily calcium and magnesium in the case of hard water, and sodium for treated soft water.

4. How often is my water tested?

In accordance with federal and state regulations, the water throughout the distribution system is tested once every three years. Over 700 samples are taken annually. The Washington Department of Health (DOH) allows us to monitor for some contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants do not change frequently. We take water samples throughout our service area and send them to independent testing laboratories. All test results are reported to the DOH. The District’s water quality meets all federal and state standards.

5. How can I learn more about my drinking water quality?

Read our Annual Drinking Water Reports to learn more about your water quality and find the data monitoring tables and water test results. Follow this link to our Annual Drinking Water Reports.