Sewer Rates & Fees
Montecito Sanitary District sewer service charges are collected annually through the County of Santa Barbara property tax roll. These rates are based on customer class and reflect the cost of providing service.
How Sewer Rates Work
Residential customers pay a fixed annual sewer charge based on the type of connection (Single Family Dwelling or Condo/Second Dwelling Unit).
Commercial customers are charged based on water use and wastewater strength. The total annual commercial sewer service charge includes two components:
- A Fixed Capacity Allocation Charge, based on the customer’s historical maximum water use
- A Variable Charge, based on actual water use from the prior calendar year
Both charges are calculated per hundred cubic feet (HCF) of water and vary by wastewater strength category (low, medium, or high).
Wastewater strength refers to the concentration of organic and dissolved material in the wastewater. Higher-strength wastewater requires more intensive treatment, resulting in higher costs.
Click the links below for a copy of District fees and resolutions establishing fees.
Current Rates & Fees
Click the links below for a copy of District fees and resolutions establishing current fees:
Fee ScheduleResolution 2022-944 Fee SchedulesMSD Connection Fees Background - 2010 MemoSewer Service Charges
Click the links below to view the District’s sewer service charges and supporting documents:
Sewer Service ChargesResolution No. 2016-8972016 Wastewater Rate Study Report2026 Sewer Rate Update
The Montecito Sanitary District is evaluating potential changes to its sewer rates following the completion of a sewer rate study for the next five years (FY 2027-2031). Since late 2025, the District has undertaken a comprehensive evaluation of its wastewater system and long-term financial needs, including updates to its Sewer System Management Plan and development of a five-year Capital Improvement Plan.
An independent financial consultant conducted the study, assessing system needs, costs, and long-term financial planning. The goal is to ensure safe, reliable wastewater service for the community into the future.
This is the first comprehensive sewer rate study conducted by the District in nearly 10 years. During that time, operating costs have increased, and the District’s infrastructure needs have grown.
A public hearing will be held on June 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m., during which the District’s Board of Directors will consider the proposed rate adjustments and receive public input. No changes will be adopted without Board approval following the hearing.
Property owners and customers are encouraged to participate. Written protests and legal objections must be submitted in writing prior to or before the close of the public hearing. The District will mail a formal Proposition 218 Notice to all ratepayers outlining the proposed changes and process for participation.
Why Rate Updates Are Being Considered
The District is considering rate adjustments to address several key needs:
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Rates are outdated and have not kept pace with costs: Sewer rates have not been adjusted since 2019, while the cost of operating and maintaining the wastewater system has steadily increased, including expenses for electricity, treatment chemicals, staffing, consultants, and regulatory compliance.
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Infrastructure is aging and at risk: Much of the District’s system was constructed in the 1960s and is now nearing the end of its useful life. Key components are increasingly difficult to repair or replace. Concrete structures at the wastewater treatment plant are deteriorating, and critical equipment is experiencing operational challenges. The system’s clay pipelines also require ongoing rehabilitation to prevent failures. Approximately $60 million in capital improvements are planned in the coming years.
- Action is needed to maintain service and protect public health: Updating rates and proactive investment is necessary to maintain reliable wastewater service and protect public health and the environment. Addressing infrastructure needs now reduces the risk of system failures, sewer spills, and service disruptions, while ensuring the District can continue to operate safely and effectively.
Public Hearing Information
The District will hold a public hearing to consider the proposed 2026 sewer rate adjustments:
- Date: June 10, 2026
- Time: 2:00 p.m.
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Location: District Office Meeting Room
Montecito Sanitary District
1042 Monte Cristo Lane
Santa Barbara, CA 93108
Learn More
For additional information about the proposed sewer rate update, please review the following resources:
Stay tuned for additional information regarding ways to participate. Sign up to receive email notifications and updates from the District.