Utilities - Water & Sewer
Hydrant Flushing
The City of Portage conducts fire hydrant flushing twice a year. The spring flush is performed in April and the fall flush is in October.
Hydrant flushing helps to improve water quality by removing sediment that accumulates in the water system and provides the opportunity to test the proper operation of the fire hydrants and the water pumping system. Some water discoloration will occur during the flushing process. Residents are urged to check for discoloration before using water for laundry or cleaning during flushing. Even though water may be somewhat discolored, it is safe to drink.
Large quantities of water are discharged from the hydrants during the flushing process. Motorists are urged to watch for vehicles and workers engaged in this work and reduce speeds accordingly. Please call Veolia at (269) 324-9235 with any questions or concerns.
Water Service
To start or stop existing water service, please contact the City of Portage Treasury Office at (269) 329-4455.
Related Documents
Automatic Reinstatement of Responsibility for Utility Billing Charges Application
Third-Party Notification of Utility Billing Notices Application
Senior Citizen Water Billing Discount Application
Water & Sewer Service Guide (PDF)
To establish new water service where it does not exist, please contact the Department of Community Development at (269) 329-4466.
Related Documents
Connection to Municipal Water Guide (PDF)
Connection to Municipal Sewer Guide (PDF)
Water Quality Information
The city owns 20 production wells located throughout the city. The Garden Lane Water Treatment Facility removes arsenic from the groundwater before distribution to the public water system. All water that is pumped is tested daily to ensure the highest quality water is delivered to Portage residents.
Related Documents
Current Utility Rates (PDF)
Annual Drinking Water Quality Report (PDF)
Special Assessments
Water and Sewer service extensions in the City of Portage are partially funded by special assessments to the benefitting properties. The City Charter includes a procedure to adopt a special assessment district consistent with State of Michigan laws.
Related Documents
Water Improvement Fact Sheet (PDF)
Residential Sanitary Sewer Improvement Fact Sheet (PDF)
Commercial Industrial Sewer Improvement Fact Sheet (PDF)
Special Assessment Rates 2023
Well and Septic Abandonment
Private wells and septic systems are under the purview of the Kalamazoo County Health & Community Services Department. Please call (269) 373-5337 with questions pertaining to well and septic systems.
Related Documents
Plugging Abandoned Wells (PDF)