Water

To request utility service, customers should contact the City’s Customer Service Department at 614-491-7804 at least two to three business days prior to the desired service start date. Staff will assist with establishing a utility account using the required information provided during the call. On the service initiation date, a meter reading will be taken to establish the starting point for billing. A $50 deposit is required to initiate service.

Utility service cannot be established or transferred to a tenant if there are outstanding charges associated with the service address.

RESIDENTIAL APPLICATION FOR UTILITY SERVICE

WATER/SEWER/REFUSE TENANT BILLING AGREEMENT

Residential refuse collection is provided by Waste Management Inc. and is collected on Friday mornings. When a holiday occurs during the week, refuse collection is delayed and will take place on Saturday. The fee for refuse service is included on the monthly utility bill and is currently $19.00 per month.

The City offers a residential refuse discount program for senior citizens. The program is available to residents who are 65 years of age or older and are the head of household. Eligible residents may apply for a 10 percent reduction in their monthly refuse service fee. To enroll, applicants must complete the Residential Refuse Discount Form and submit it to the Utilities Department at 4175 Alum Creek Drive.

To request termination of utility service, customers must notify the Utility Billing Department at least two to three business days prior to the desired service end date. Staff will schedule final meter readings and obtain a forwarding address to issue the final utility bill.

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) provides assistance to eligible households with heating and cooling utility costs. Residents in need of assistance may contact HEAP toll-free at (800) 282-0880 or at 614-644-6600 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.

Hearing-impaired residents using a TDD (telecommunication device for the deaf) may call (800) 686-1557 toll-free or, within Franklin County, (614) 752-8808. The HEAP fax number is (614) 728-6832.

Additional information regarding eligibility guidelines and application forms is available through the Ohio Department of Development website.

Water mains that supply residential and commercial properties may occasionally develop leaks, most commonly during the winter months. Residents who observe pooling water or water emerging from the ground should contact the Utilities Department at 614-491-5733.

When a water main break requires a temporary water shutoff for repairs, a Boil Alert will be issued to protect public health in the event contaminants enter the system. Whenever possible, the City Engineer and Utilities Department staff work to repair water main leaks without shutting down service in order to avoid issuing Boil Alerts.

The Obetz Utilities Department conducts annual fire hydrant flushing each fall. The flushing schedule is posted during the week the work is performed.

The primary purpose of hydrant flushing is to ensure proper hydrant operation through routine inspection, flow testing, and preventive maintenance. This process also helps maintain water quality by removing accumulated iron and mineral deposits from the water lines, ensuring a high-quality water supply for residents.

Fire hydrant flushing may cause temporary reductions in water pressure and discolored water. Although discolored water is not a health concern, it may stain laundry. Residents are encouraged to avoid washing laundry during flushing activities and to keep vehicles clear of hydrants while work is underway.

While temporary inconveniences may occur, annual hydrant flushing is necessary to maintain a reliable water supply for both firefighting and domestic use. If discolored water persists, residents should run cold water for approximately five minutes. For questions or concerns, please contact the Utilities Department at (614) 491-5733.

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) provides assistance to eligible households with heating and cooling utility costs. Residents seeking assistance may contact HEAP toll-free at (800) 282-0880 or at 614-644-6600 during regular business hours, Monday through Friday.

Hearing-impaired residents using a TDD (telecommunication device for the deaf) may call (800) 686-1557 toll-free or, within Franklin County, (614) 752-8808. The HEAP fax number is (614) 728-6832. Information regarding eligibility guidelines and application forms is available through the Ohio Department of Development website.

Regular Energy Assistance Program

The Regular HEAP program provides financial assistance toward eligible household heating bills for the months of December, January, and February. The amount of assistance is based on household income, household size, geographic area, and the type of heating fuel used.

HEAP Winter Crisis Program (HWCP)

The HEAP Winter Crisis Program (HWCP) assists households that have experienced a utility disconnection, face imminent disconnection, or have less than a ten-day supply of bulk heating fuel. The program provides a one-time payment of up to $175 per heating season to restore or maintain home heating services, or up to $450 for bulk fuel customers.

Eligibility and Documentation Requirements

Households applying for HEAP or HWCP must report total gross household income for all household members age 18 and older for the most recent three- or twelve-month period. Applicants must provide copies of both primary and secondary utility bills, documentation of any required co-payment, proof of disability if applicable, and Social Security numbers for all household members age two and older. Homeowners and renters may qualify if total household income is at or below 175 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.

Additional Information

For questions regarding HEAP, the Percentage of Income Payment Plan (PIPP), or the Home Weatherization Assistance Program (HWAP), residents may call (800) 282-0880 or 614-644-6600. These programs are administered by an outside agency and are not operated by the City of Obetz.