Billing Cycle

Each customer is billed quarterly. Bills are due upon receipt; payment must be received by the due date shown on the bill. Failure to receive a bill is not grounds for nonpayment.

• Meter reads: Between the 1st–15th of the month
• Bills mailed: Last day of the month
• Penalty date: 20 days from billing date
• Shutoff notices: Mailed to unpaid accounts 3 days after penalty date

Water & sewer charges are for services already provided. Garbage is billed in advance. The service period on your bill shows the coverage dates.

Billing Info & Contact

The City is divided into three billing sections. You will receive a water/sewer/waste bill every 3 months.

Note on Mail: Bills are considered paid when received at City Hall, not when mailed. Use the exterior Drop Box at City Hall when closed.

Deposits

Deposits are required for all new water service accounts. After two (2) years of non-delinquent payments, deposits are refunded.

• Before closing: Submit Real Estate Contract + photo ID
• After closing: Provide recorded deed or HUD closing document

Penalties & Service Charges

• Unpaid after due date = delinquent → 5% penalty on water/sewer portion
• Customer has 7 business days from the original due date to settle the account
• If still unpaid after 7 business days, water service will be terminated
• If the 7th business day falls on a Friday, shutoff occurs the following Monday

Returned Checks

• $25.00 returned check charge (closed account: $25.00)
• A red card will be placed on the door; shutoff in 48 hours if not resolved
• To satisfy returned items: cash, money order, or certified check only

Extension Policy

Residents unable to pay by the regular due date may request an extension of the “Total On or Before” date by calling (847) 746-4008.

• Pay 50% of the bill and the penalty amount to receive an extension
• Property owner must sign the extension contract in person on or before the “Total On or Before” date (bring photo ID)
• No extensions if any outstanding fines/liens/tickets/bills (including other water bills) are owed by owner/tenant
• No extensions if you defaulted on a prior extension; violating terms results in service termination

Final Readings (Property Sale)

Final water readings are required to finalize an account at the time of property sale.

Payment Methods

1. Mail – Check, money order, or completed credit card authorization form. Allow 10 working days. Include the remittance (top stub) using the courtesy reply envelope.
2. City Hall Drop Box – Check or money order, plus the remittance (top stub). No cash.
3. In Person – Check, money order, cash, or credit card
4. Direct Debit – With a completed “Authorization Agreement – Direct Utility Billing Payments”
5. Phone Payments – Call (877) 885-7968
6. Online – Pay Online (third-party vendor may charge additional fees separate from City of Zion fees)

Water Service & Billing Inquiries

Water Quality / Service Problems