Where to pay your Houston water, sewer, and trash bill

The City of Houston collects water, sewer, and solid waste charges on a single bill. You can pay online through the city's official website, by phone, by mail, or in person at a payment center. The fastest and most convenient method is online through the city's bill pay portal, which processes payments immediately and lets you set up recurring payments if you want.

The city does not use a third-party billing company — Houston Public Works handles billing directly. This means all payments go straight to the city, and you can see your account and payment history on the same portal where you pay.

Key Takeaways

  • Pay online at the City of Houston's official bill pay website using your account number, which appears on your bill.
  • Phone payments go through an automated system at 713-207-2700, and you can also speak to a representative during business hours.
  • Mail payments should be sent to the address printed on your bill, and the city recommends allowing 10 business days for processing.
  • In-person payments are accepted at Houston Public Works payment centers during regular business hours, and you can pay by cash, check, or card.
  • Set up automatic payments through the online portal to avoid late fees and ensure your bill is paid on time each month.

Paying online through the city portal

Go to the City of Houston Public Works website and look for the "Pay My Bill" or "Online Bill Pay" link. You will need your account number, which is printed on your bill near the top. Enter your account number and the amount you want to pay, then choose your payment method — debit card, credit card, or bank account transfer.

Online payments are processed the same day if you pay before the cutoff time, which is usually 5 p.m. central time on business days. The city charges a convenience fee for credit and debit card payments, but there is no fee if you pay by electronic bank transfer. You will receive a confirmation number immediately after payment, and you can check your payment status in your account dashboard within a few hours.

If you want to avoid logging in each month, you can set up automatic recurring payments through the same portal. Choose the date you want to pay each month, and the city will charge your chosen payment method automatically. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your account.

Paying by phone

Call 713-207-2700 to reach the automated phone payment system. Have your account number and payment method ready. The system accepts debit cards, credit cards, and bank account transfers. Like online payments, credit and debit card payments include a convenience fee, but bank transfers do not.

If you prefer to speak with a person, stay on the line after the automated menu or call during business hours — typically Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. A representative can help you make a payment, answer questions about your bill, or set up automatic payments over the phone.

Paying by mail

Write a check or money order and mail it to the address printed on your bill. Include your account number on the check. The city recommends allowing 10 business days for your payment to arrive and be processed, so mail your payment at least two weeks before your due date if you want to avoid a late fee.

Do not send cash through the mail. If you are paying a past-due balance, include a note with your account number so the city can apply the payment to the correct account. Keep a copy of your check or money order number for your records.

Paying in person at a payment center

Houston Public Works operates payment centers where you can pay in person during business hours. The main office is located at 1002 Washington Avenue, Houston, TX 77002. You can pay by cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Bring your bill or account number with you.

Payment centers are typically open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but hours may vary by location. Call 713-207-2700 to confirm the hours of the location nearest you before you go. In-person payments are processed immediately, and you will receive a receipt.

Understanding your bill due date and late fees

Your bill shows a due date, which is usually about 20 days after the bill is issued. If you pay after the due date, the city charges a late fee. The amount of the late fee depends on your bill amount and is shown on your bill. Paying on time avoids this extra charge.

If your account falls significantly behind, the city may disconnect your water service. You can contact Houston Public Works at 713-207-2700 to discuss a payment plan if you are unable to pay your full bill by the due date. The city may be able to work out an arrangement that keeps your service active while you catch up.

What to do if you have trouble paying or need help

If you are struggling to pay your bill, contact Houston Public Works directly at 713-207-2700. Representatives can discuss your situation and may be able to set up a payment plan that spreads your balance over several months. The city also has information about low-income assistance programs, though these are separate from the bill payment process itself.

If you notice an error on your bill — a charge that seems wrong or a service you did not receive — contact the city to dispute it. Do not withhold payment while disputing a charge, as that can result in late fees and service disconnection. Pay what you believe you owe and let the city investigate the disputed amount separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the convenience fee for paying by credit card?

The convenience fee varies and is shown to you before you complete your payment online or by phone. It is typically a percentage of your bill amount. Bank transfers and mail payments have no fee.

Can I pay someone else's Houston water bill?

Yes, you can pay another person's bill if you have their account number. You do not need to be the account holder. Provide the account number when you pay online, by phone, or by mail.

How long does it take for a mailed check to show up in my account?

The city recommends allowing 10 business days for processing. Mail your payment at least two weeks before the due date to be safe. Online and phone payments show up the same day.

What happens if I miss my due date?

You will be charged a late fee. If you continue to miss payments, the city may disconnect your water service. Contact Houston Public Works immediately if you cannot pay on time to discuss a payment plan.

Can I set up automatic payments and then cancel them later?

Yes. You can change or cancel automatic payments anytime through your online account or by calling 713-207-2700. Make sure to cancel before the next scheduled payment date if you do not want it to go through.