Explanation of the Billing Codes listed on billing:
ACH-CREDIT – Discount given monthly setting up Auto Pay via Checking/Savings through the City
E-BILL CREDIT – Discount given monthly for receiving billing via email vs. USPS
FED WTR TEST – Joint Powers Federal Water Test Fee
LATE FEE – Late Payment Fee
JP DIST – Joint Power Water
STWAT - Stormwater
ALBDIST – Municipal Water
SEWER – Sanitary Sewer Fee
STATE TAX – State Sales Tax
RECYCLING – Recycling Fee
METER PENALTY – Meter Service needs to be scheduled
How can I check that my bill is accurate?
As a homeowner, you are able to check your meter to calculate your usage at any time. The meter is generally located downstairs or in a utility room, where the water enters your home. On the meter there is a dial that reads like a car odometer. The City rounds down to the nearest 1,000 gallon for billing purposes. This number is listed on your bill under “current” as the current or most recent rad we received from your meter. You may need a flash light to “wake up” the meter to read it.
I have not used water, why am I still getting a bill?
All properties will receive a minimum service charge billing on a monthly basis. The City’s base rates are defined in the City’s fee schedule.
What is a Convenience Fee?
Starting January 1, 2026, a 3.25% convenience fee will apply to all payments made with a credit card, debit card, PayPal or Venmo. The fee will apply to any transactions, whether set up as autopay or made as a one-time payment via phone, in person or through Payment Services Network (City's online payment processing software). The 3.25% fee is non-refundable.
A convenience fee of $1.10 will be applied to all payments made using a checking or savings account, money order, or automatic payments processed through Payment Services Network which is non-refundable.
Want to avoid a convenience fee? The City of Albertville offers automatic monthly withdrawal from a checking or savings account (ACH). Contact the Utility Billing Department at 763-497-3384 or complete the Direct Payment Form on albertvillemn.gov and submit.
Cities have the authority to charge “convenience fees” under Minnesota Statue Section 471.381, Subdivision 2. Minnesota Statute Section 325G.051 allows cities to add a surcharge to transactions when the customer elects to use a card in lieu of cash or check.
The convenience fee is part of a City-wide effort to help recover the costs of accepting credit cards, PayPal, Venmo and all on-line payments. We appreciate your understanding!
How is the sanitary sewer charge on my water bill calculated?
The monthly sanitary sewer charge is based on metered water usage. For residential properties, a maximum monthly charge is set based on the February statement.
What is the storm water fee?
The storm water utility fee pays for the City’s storm water system (pipes, catch basins, culverts, holding ponds) and the annual maintenance costs of the system. The fee also pays for federal and state mandates such as the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4) program. Like water and sewer, the storm water utility fee is a user fee that all properties regardless of ownership are required to pay (even if you don’t have City water or sewer). The fee charged to commercial properties for storm water is based on the size of the lot and the amount of impervious surface.
I received a Water Meter Service Letter – What do I do?
The City is trying to connect with customers regarding their water meter. Letters are sent via USPS. A meter service appointment will need to be scheduled with our City personnel, taking only approximately 10-15 minutes and requiring someone 18 years of age or older be present at the time of the appointment. Appointment times are between the hours of 8:30 am and 3:30 pm Monday-Thursday and Friday mornings. The water meter is inside and usually on the lowest level.
A $10 per month meter penalty fee will be added to your monthly utility bill and will continue to be charged until the meter is serviced by the City of Albertville.
If the service is not scheduled within 45 days of the letter, it may result in the water service being disconnected/shut off in accordance with City of Albertville Ordinance 9-2-5 (meters) subsection D (Access to Meters)
City of Albertville Ordinance 9-2-5
D. Access to Meters: Authorized meter readers and repair personnel shall have free access at reasonable hours of the day to all parts of every building and premises connected with the City water supply system in order to read meters, make inspections and make repairs. Denial of access shall cause the water to be shut off.
