Important Update on Utility Rates – Effective February 2026
The City of Chestermere is adjusting utility rates to support the continued delivery of reliable and sustainable essential services. Starting with the February 2026 billing period:
- Water, Sewer, and Storm rates will increase.
- Solid Waste and Eco Centre rates will decrease.
These adjustments follow a comprehensive review of operating and maintenance costs and reflect the City’s responsibility to maintain the infrastructure residents rely on every day.
The increases in water, sewer, and storm rates will help fund planned infrastructure upgrades, including repairs to water pipes, sewer lift stations, and storm ponds. These investments focus on maintaining service reliability and extending the lifespan of critical systems.
For an average household the increase will be approximately $15.00 per month.
Solid Waste and Eco Centre rates are decreasing due to the Province of Alberta’s implementation of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) program in 2025. This program provides additional funding for residential recycling, reducing the overall cost of these services for residents.
These changes support the City’s commitment to responsible financial management, infrastructure stewardship, and ensuring essential services remain dependable for residents now and into the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which utilities are affected?
All the utilities will be affected. Rates for water, sewer, and storm services will increase, while solid waste and Eco Centre rates will decrease. To see a breakdown of the rates visit: thecityofchestermere.ca/residentialservices/utility-rates-fees
When will the new rates take effect?
The new rates will apply starting with the February 2026 billing period.
How much will my bill increase?
For the average household the increase is approximately $15.00 per month.
Why are utility rates increasing?
Water, sewer, and storm rates are increasing to fund essential infrastructure maintenance and upgrades, ensuring safe, reliable, and sustainable services for the community. The utility rates are assessed annually during budget and adjusted if necessary to achieve a full cost recovery of the services and capital.
Where will the increased revenue go?
The revenue from the increase will be divided. About 75% will go to the Asset Management Program to repair and upgrade water, sewer, and storm infrastructure. The remaining 25% covers adjustments to the six transition agreements between the City and the Utility.
When was the last utility rate increase?
Rates were last adjusted in 2022. At that time, water rates increased, while sewer and stormwater rates decreased. Prior to that, water and sewer rates were updated in 2016, and stormwater rates were established in 2021.