Expanded Customer Assistance Program Helps More South Tahoe Residents Save on Water and Sewer Bills

South Lake Tahoe, CA (October 16, 2025) – More South Lake Tahoe residents may now qualify for help with their water and sewer bills thanks to the South Tahoe Public Utility District’s expanded Customer Assistance Program. The District’s program offers qualifying low-income households a discount of 15–25% off their monthly water and sewer charges.

Effective September 7, 2025, the District expanded income eligibility from 300% to 400% of the federal poverty level to better meet the needs of the local community.

“We know many in our community are feeling the strain of increasing costs,” said Shane Romsos, President of the South Tahoe Public Utility District Board of Directors. “Expanding this program is one-way STPUD can help ease the burden for those in need.”

Who Qualifies

The Customer Assistance Program is available to permanent, full-time residential customers and offers two tiers of savings:

25% Discount:
For customers enrolled in Liberty Utilities’ California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program with income up to 200% of the federal poverty level (for example, a family of four earning less than $64,300 annually) or who participate in qualifying assistance programs such as:

·         Medi-Cal/Medicaid

·         CalFresh/SNAP

·         TANF/Tribal TANF

·         WIC

·         Medi-Cal for Families

·         LIHEAP

·         Supplemental Security Income

·         Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance

·         Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)

15% Discount:
For households with total annual income up to 400% of the federal poverty level (for example, a family of four earning less than $128,600 annually).

More information on eligibility guidelines is available at www.stpud.us/financial-assistance-programs.

How to Apply

Customers can apply online through their WaterSmart account at https://stpud.watersmart.com/, or apply in person at the District office located at 1275 Meadow Crest Drive, South Lake Tahoe.

For questions or assistance, call Customer Service at 530-544-6474 or email cs@stpud.us.