Phoenix water users may have to pay surcharge

Added: 2026-05-06

[00:00:00]The city of Phoenix is anticipating serious cuts to our water supply from the Colorado River.

[00:00:05]>> We are certainly at a point where the risk of unilateral federal action is very high.

[00:00:09]>> It's a day they've been preparing for, and with it, more action will need to be taken. Right now, the city of Phoenix drought management plan is at stage one, which focuses on educating the public on water conservation. It's a warning that water is running out, and it's worked, like homeowners getting rid of the grass in their yards and using more water efficient appliances. But with these anticipated cuts at the federal level, >> we cannot conserve our way out of the problem of this magnitude.

[00:00:36]>> On Tuesday, the water services department announced by the end of the year, Phoenix will likely enter stage two of the plan where they will have to use backup water supplies to meet demand.

[00:00:47]>> It may include things like additional conservation education, expansion of water audits, incentives, and rebates to ensure efficient use of water. It could also bring sir charges meaning if someone uses more water than what they are allocated they could face additional charges for it.