Services and Resources for Water, stormwater, and sewer

On this page, you can see how your savings will increase with each step you take to let rain running off your roof, driveway, or parking lot safely soak into the ground on your property. You will also find instructions on how to measure trees on your property.

Pay and manage your options on your City of Portland sewer, stormwater, and water bill. If you can’t pay your full bill, contact us.

Leaks not only put stress on the drinking water system, but also send clean water to the wastewater treatment plant. Reduce your impact on the environment and save money and water by repairing some leaks yourself! Follow these easy steps to fix a leaky faucet.

Pressure washing and graffiti removal generate pollutants that are harmful to human health and the environment. Wash water from these activities is prohibited from flowing to the city's stormwater system. Follow these best management practices to properly contain wash water and prevent pollution.

The Secondary Treatment Expansion Program is the largest upgrade to the Columbia Boulevard Wastewater Treatment Plant since the 1970s. The $515 million project enhances the plant's resilience, protects water quality, and provides healthier and effective work environments for essential workers.

The 2020 Source Control Manual became effective Dec. 14. The manual sets City policy for drainage and discharges resulting from development and post-development activities for site-specific activities like waste storage, loading and unloading, exterior storage and processing, and dewatering.

The 2025 Stormwater Management Manual (SWMM) has replaced the 2020 manual. The manual sets City policy and design requirements for stormwater management on all development, redevelopment, and improvement projects on both public and private property in Portland.

This annual report contains important information about Portland's drinking water and water system.

This annual report contains important information about Portland's drinking water and water system.

This annual report contains important information about Portland's drinking water and water system.

This annual report contains important information about Portland's drinking water and water system.

This annual report contains important information about Portland's drinking water and water system.

The 2025 Stormwater Management Manual (SWMM) became effective March 1, 2025. The manual sets City policy and design requirements for stormwater management on all development, redevelopment, and improvement projects on both public and private property in Portland.

Combined sewer overflows (CSOs) to the Willamette River and Columbia Slough are rare. But when they do occur, Portlanders are advised to stay out of the water for 48 hours following a CSO due to higher levels of bacteria and other contaminants. Find out if a CSO is happening now.

The Downtown-Old Town Sewer Repair Program is a multi-year and multi-million-dollar investment to assess the condition and capacity of the aging public sewer system serving Portland's Downtown and Old Town neighborhoods and to construct the necessary repairs and upgrades.

Green streets reduce sewer overflows and backups by slowing and absorbing stormwater runoff from sidewalks and streets. Also known as rain gardens or bioswales, green streets are important to the City’s sewer and stormwater systems. They also help prevent pollution from washing into our rivers.

You can apply for a permit to use water from hydrants. We offer annual hydrant permits and temporary hydrant permits. Read on for information about each type of permit.

Portland’s sewer and stormwater system includes pipes, pump stations, and treatment plants. It also includes green street planters, rain gardens, and trees. Together, this “grey” and “green” infrastructure helps us manage sewage and stormwater to protect people, property, and our environment.