The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services (ENV) announced a proposal Wednesday to more than double sewer fees over a 10-year-period, beginning July 1, 2025. 

What You Need To Know

  • Over a 10-year period, the rates will increase each year on July 1

  • The rates will increase 9% per year from 2025-2030, then 8% in 2031, 7% in 2032, 6% in 2033, and 5% in 2034

  • ENV will also adjust how sewer fees are calculated, allowing households that use less water to save more money

  • Officials noted funds for Oahu’s nine wastewater treatment facilities come solely from the sewer fees

“The rates are going to increase 9% per year in each of the first six years, then it’s going to increase by 8%, 7%, 6% and 5%,” said Dr. Roger Babcock, director of ENV, during a news conference on Thursday. 

Each July 1, the rates will increase. The yearly increases will result in a total increase of 115% over the 10-year period. 

The last time the ENV increased sewer fees was in 2016. 

See the chart below for an example of the fee increases: 

(Chart courtesy of ENV)
(Chart courtesy of ENV)

Officials noted funds for Oahu’s nine wastewater treatment facilities come solely from the sewer fees. The increased fees will go toward operation and maintenance costs, and upcoming construction projects, including the completion of the $2.5 billion upgrade of the Sand Island Wastewater Treatment Plant to full secondary treatment, which is required by the federal government. The funds will also help repair and upgrade Oahu’s aging wastewater treatment infrastructure, which includes preparing for climate change and sea-level rise. 

“We understand the financial strain that these rate increases may cause for our residents, but these adjustments are critical for the long-term sustainability of our island’s wastewater system,” said Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi. “By investing in these infrastructure upgrades today, we are safeguarding public health, protecting our environment, and ensuring that Oahu is prepared for the future challenges of climate change. These improvements are essential for our community’s well-being.”

ENV will also adjust how sewer fees are calculated. Currently, sewer bills include a base charge, which accounts for 70% of the bill, and a volumetric charge based on water use, about 30% of the bill. Over the next four years, these percentages will gradually shift to 50/50, fixed-to-volumetric ratio. This will allow households that use less water to save more money. 

Also, to help offset costs for low-income homes, ENV will launch the Customer Assistance for Residential Environmental Services program. Households earning less than 80% of the area median income may qualify for a monthly credit of $20 to $25 on their fixed sewer charge. 

Next, the Honolulu City Council will consider approving the proposal.   

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