What is extra strength wastewater?

Extra Strength Wastewater is wastewater with a higher pollutant level when compared to that of residential wastewater. Technically, it is waste water with higher concentrations of solid materials and organic water pollutants. Wastewater discharges that exceed residential levels of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) or total suspended solids (TSS) will be subject to extra strength charges.

Who discharges extra strength wastewater?

Generally speaking, businesses such as breweries, restaurants, grocery stores, hospitals, industrial laundries and car washes discharge extra strength wastewater. All non-residential sewer customers are subject to evaluation in order to determine if they should pay an extra strength sewer charge.

Why has the City of Bend adopted an Extra Strength Charge program?

The City of Bend, along with a group of business representatives, created an equitable Extra Strength Charge (ESC) program to protect our investment at the Water Reclamation Facility (WRF) and recover costs of treating higher strength wastewater.

What can I do if I disagree with the category I am initially placed in?

Any customer in an industry that is required to pay a sewer extra strength charge may request reclassification at any time by submitting an ESC Reclassification Application along with the application fee.  

How do I appeal a denial for reclassification or participation in the Monitored Program?

Any applicant may appeal a whole or partial denial within 10 days of the decision being challenged.  The appeal shall be submitted to the City Recorder and shall be accompanied by payment of the appeal fee established by Council resolution. ESC Appeals Process includes more information on submitting an appeal.