Utilities - Water & Sewer
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.
Fall 2025 Hydrant Flushing Map (PDF)
To start or stop existing water service, please contact the City of Portage Treasury Office at (269) 329-4455.
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.
Connection to Municipal Water Guide (PDF)
Connection to Municipal Sewer Guide (PDF)
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.
Current Utility Rates (PDF)
Annual Drinking Water Quality Report (PDF)
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 the State of Michigan laws.
Water Improvement Fact Sheet (PDF)
Residential Sanitary Sewer Improvement Fact Sheet (PDF)
Special Assessment Rates (PDF) 2026
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.
Plugging Abandoned Wells (PDF)
Utility Emergency Services
Please report all water and sanitary sewer emergencies (water main break, leaking meter or valve, backup in residence) to (269) 324-9235. This is a 24-hour service number.
Metronet Construction in Portage
Metronet has begun construction of its fiber optic network in Portage. Residents can expect to see construction teams in and around neighborhoods completing both aerial and underground work. Metronet team member uniforms and vehicles are clearly marked with the Metronet logo, making them easy to identify.
View Metronet's construction website. Here you can view frequently asked questions and construction maps, and notify Metronet of any potential property concerns, such as the location of an underground sprinkler system or invisible dog fence. Residents may also call Metronet Customer Service at (877) 386-3876.