Start or Stop Services
If you have never had a Seattle utilities account before, start with our guide for customers who are new to the area.
If you are a current or former customer and need to move, open, or close an account, you have three options:
- Online: You can now start or stop water, sewer, electricity, garbage, recycling, or food/yard waste services on the Utility Services Website.
- Log in to your profile to make a start or stop service request. Don't have a profile? Set a profile up today.
- By Phone: Call Customer Service at (206) 684-3000. They are available by phone from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Walk-In Service Center: Visit us at Seattle Municipal Tower, 700 5th Ave, 4th Floor (lobby entrance) or one of our walk-in centers.
Before You Start...
Before you start or stop service, please note the following:
- If you have sold your property, you will need the name of the buyer to close your account.
- If you are stopping service, you will be billed for services until the account is properly closed with an effective date, meter reading, and forwarding address.
- The following fees will be charged when opening or closing water, sewer, garbage, recycling, or food & yard (compost) accounts:
| Service | Type of Fee | When | Fee |
| Water | Water Meter Reading Fee | Closing Account | $60 |
| Garbage, Recyling, Food & Yard | Account Setup Fee | Opening Account | $10 |
| Sewer | None | None | None |
Requesting a Balance Refund
You can request a refund check for your Seattle Public Utilities or Seattle City Light account if you:
- Are the account holder.
- Have stopped your service.
- Have a credit balance after the final bill was issued for your account.
- Do not receive utility rate assistance.
To make a refund request, call Customer Service at (206) 684-3000.