CITY OF TRINIDAD
UTILITY Department
Trinidad Utility Department
Utility Department Phone: 903-778-2525
The City of Trinidad operates a fully self-supporting water and sewer utility. All revenue collected from water and sewer bills is used solely to operate, maintain, and improve the utility system. Bills are based on actual water usage, measured through individual water meters connected between the City’s system and each customer’s private plumbing.
Meters are read monthly to determine water consumption and calculate billing.
Setting Up a Water Account
Starting water service with the City of Trinidad is simple:
Step 1: Verify Service Area
Call the Utility Billing Department at 903-778-2525 to confirm that your address is within the City’s service area.
Step 2: Confirm Required Inspection
Check with City Hall to determine whether the home has been inspected by the Building Inspector.
Customer Service Inspection: $125
Step 3: Complete a Service Agreement
Visit City Hall to complete a service agreement form. Water service cannot be activated until all forms are completed.
Deposits & Fees
Residential deposit: $200
Connection fee:
- $45 (inside city limits)
- $65 (outside city limits)
Commercial accounts with meters larger than 1" should contact Utility Billing for deposit requirements.
Garbage & Waste Collection
The City of Trinidad contracts with Republic Services for residential garbage collection.
Weekly Collection
- Pickup Day: Wednesday
- All household garbage must be bagged and placed inside the provided cart.
- Carts must be placed at the curb no later than 7:00 a.m. on pickup day.
- Carts may be set out after 6:00 p.m. Tuesday and must be removed from the curb by 10:00 p.m. Wednesday once serviced.
Cart Placement Guidelines
- Place cart at least 3 feet away from other carts, vehicles, mailboxes, meters, hydrants, poles, or other obstacles
- Position cart with handles facing your home, so the lid opens toward the street.
- To order an additional cart, contact City Hall at (903) 778-2525.
Cart Repair or Replacement
- Broken or damaged carts will be repaired or replaced by Republic Services.
- Stolen carts will be replaced after the resident files a police report.
- Carts are the property of Republic Services and must remain at the assigned address.
- Assistance is available for disabled residents with no able-bodied person in the home; call Republic Services at 903-874-8717.
Cart Repair or Replacement
Residents may schedule pickup of up to two bulk items per month by calling 903-874-8717. Acceptable items include appliances (with refrigerants removed), furniture, water heaters, and other large household items.
- Not accepted: construction debris, items too heavy to load safely, materials that may damage equipment, or items prohibited by disposal facilities.
Holiday Schedule
Republic Services observes the following holidays:
New Year’s Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Thanksgiving
Christmas
If a holiday falls Monday–Wednesday, collection will occur on Thursday of that week.
WATER LEAKS
A sudden increase in water usage may indicate a leak. Many leaks are silent and difficult to detect.
How to Check for a Water Leak
- Turn off all faucets and ensure appliances (dishwasher, washer) are not running.
- Locate your water meter, typically near the front property line.
- If the meter’s indicator is moving, water is flowing somewhere on the property.
Common Leak Sources
- Toilet leaks: A faulty flapper is often the cause. Add a few drops of food coloring to the tank (or request free testing tablets from City Hall). If color appears in the bowl after 15–20 minutes, the toilet is leaking.
- Dripping faucets or running outdoor spigots.
If you cannot locate the leak or have questions, please contact 903-778-2525
How to Check for a Water Leak
- Turn off all faucets and ensure appliances (dishwasher, washer) are not running.
- Locate your water meter, typically near the front property line.
- If the meter’s indicator is moving, water is flowing somewhere on the property.
WATER TASTE & ODOR
During summer months, residents may notice changes in water taste or odor. These changes are not a health concern.
Is the water safe to drink?
- Yes. Taste and odor changes are a palatability issue only.
Cause:
- Seasonal algal blooms in surface water (typically late July through August) can affect water taste and smell. Conditions that support algal blooms include:
- Natural nutrients in the lake
- Clearer water allowing sunlight penetration
- Hot weather raising water temperatures to 80–85°F
- Certain algae produce natural compounds causing odor, while aquatic fungi contribute to earthy tastes.
What the City Does
The City continuously monitors water quality. When early signs of an algal bloom are detected, treatment processes are adjusted to minimize taste and odor impacts.
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