How do I start Utility services?

Property Occupants may start services in a number of ways:

1. Property occupants requesting the utility account in their name should complete the New Service Application at utilities.southbendin.gov by selecting Application for New Service . or visit the customer service office at 125 W Colfax, south bend, IN 46601
2. Proof of ownership documentation must be provided to customer service. The following forms of documentation (with signatures) may be provided as proof of ownership: a deed, title or purchase agreement.

Contact the City of South Bend Customer Service office if you have questions or need assistance by dialing  3-1-1 or 574-233-0311.

What does it cost to start Utility services?

• All past due bills must be paid prior to starting or reinstating new services.
• Customers getting water service will be charged a $30 start service fee that will be billed to the first billing statement. Additionally, customers with trash service will be billed a $10 administrative fee.
• Customers may need to pay a deposit based on a review of prior payment history with the Utility or another Utility, which will be due at the time of the application for service.
  • The deposit may be as little as $0.00 and as much as two months' estimated water and sewer bills by meter size.
  • Deposits can be billed.
  • The deposit will be determined at the time of the application and can be paid at: 125 W. Colfax.

How does the Utility determine deposit criteria?

• ​For applicants who have had services with the Utility within the last two (2) years, all three (3) of the following criteria must be true for the Utility to waive the deposit:
  1. Owes no outstanding bills for services rendered within the past four (4) years;  
  2. During the last twelve (12) consecutive months that the service was provided, applicant did not have more than two (2) bills that were past due; and
  3. Within the last two (2) years did not have a service disconnected for nonpayment of a bill for services rendered by that utility.
• If the applicant has NOT been a customer of the utility within the last two (2) years, documentation from another Utility (such as AEP or Nipsco) which satisfies the above criteria will suffice. It will be the responsibility of the applicant to produce this documentation.