Where Does My Water Come From?

City of Sonoma residents benefit from having two reliable water sources. Our primary supply comes from the Sonoma County Water Agency (SCWA), which draws water from five Ranney Collectors positioned in the Russian River gravels, seven production wells, and three supplementary wells in the Santa Rosa plain.

The Russian River originates in Mendocino County about 15 miles north of Ukiah. This 110-mile waterway flows south from its headwaters near Potter Valley to the Pacific Ocean at Jenner, approximately 20 miles west of Santa Rosa.

Our secondary water source consists of six City groundwater wells capable of producing approximately 1.5 million gallons daily. These wells serve as supplementary supply during peak demand periods, typically during summer months, or during water-related emergencies. Well 5 is currently designated as a standby well, while Well 7 remains offline and not permitted for use.

In 2017, the City of Sonoma Water Division purchased 602 million gallons from SCWA and produced an additional 48 million gallons from local groundwater wells between January and September.

After acquisition, water enters the City's distribution system comprising over 58 miles of water mains, 4,387 service connections, five storage tanks, and two pumping stations. Our dedicated water utility staff monitor storage tank levels, operate wells, conduct laboratory sampling, install service connections and meters, handle customer billing, and maintain the infrastructure to ensure reliable service.

We appreciate your continued support of our water efficiency efforts, especially during the warm summer months when conservation is most critical.

1. What if I don't receive my bill? All payments are due monthly. If your bill doesn't arrive, please contact our customer service department to request a duplicate copy.
2. How can I make a payment? You can pay in person at our office, through mail, by enrolling in Automatic Draft, by phone, online with a debit/credit card, or at one of our drop boxes located outside the Leeds Water Works office or on 8th Street next to Maison De France.
3. What if I can't afford to pay my bill by the due date? Contact our customer service team at 205.699.5151 to discuss your situation. We may be able to arrange a payment plan.
4. How do I read my meter? Meters read like car odometers - from left to right. Calculate consumption by subtracting your previous reading from the current one. Any meter movement when water isn't being used may indicate a leak.
5. How do I get household garbage collection started? For garbage pickup, contact Advanced Disposal at 205-640-7000.
6. Where do I pay my sewer bill? Sewer bills are paid to different entities depending on your location: Jefferson County Sewer (205-325-5390), Birmingham Water Works (205-244-4000), Moody GUSC (205-640-3829), or Canaan Systems (205-678-3921). Direct questions about your sewer bill to the appropriate company.
7. What is the City Pickup Charge? The $3.00 City Pickup fee is charged by the City of Leeds for limb collection and appears on your water bill.
8. What if I have an emergency water situation? Call the Leeds Water Works office at 205.699.5151. Staff are available to answer calls 24/7.
9. Where does the Water Works get its water supply? Leeds Water Works provides high-quality water from various local natural wells and springs.