Columbia Water conservation reimbursements ordinance (§ 27-174)
Chapter 27: Utilities · Article III. Water and Light System
In short: Water customers can get reimbursed for approved residential or commercial water-saving equipment and installations, if funds are available. The water and light department must approve the project first, and payments can't exceed documented expenses.
Our plain-English summary, not the official text or legal advice. The ordinance below is what counts.
(a) The city hereby establishes the reimbursement programs listed in this section, subject to the availability of funds for such purposes, for qualified customers of the water utility.
(b) The following programs are established to encourage the purchase of approved equipment and approved installations:
(1) Residential Water Conservation.
(2) Commercial Water Conservation.
(c) In order to be eligible for reimbursement, the customer must follow all program guidelines. Projects must be approved by the water and light department before the reimbursement will be awarded.
(d) Reimbursements will not be made in excess of documented expenses.
(e) For purposes of providing water customer reimbursements, the water and light department shall establish policy and criteria for each program with regard to proper proof of purchase and installation of equipment to ensure the integrity of each project. Each proposed project shall be reviewed by the water and light department to ensure that it provides the intended benefits of the program.
(f) Reimbursements exceeding the maximum amount normally allowed under program policies will be conditional on a financial assessment by the water and light department and must be pre-approved by the water and light director. Such reimbursements shall be reported to the water and light advisory
board. Policies and procedures are subject to change.
Official source: City of Columbia official Code of Ordinances (online): look up Sec. 27-174
Text from Supplement 139 (September 3, 2026).
Last checked November 1, 2026. The city's official copy controls; this page is a reading copy, not legal advice.