FAQs

Water

• Does the City water contain fluoride?

  Yes, sodium fluoride is added to Camas' water to maintain good dental hygiene.

• How do I know if I have a water leak?

  Check your bill and make sure you do not have abnormally high water use. The City strives to monitor for abnormal spikes in water use, and as a courtesy, may send you a letter to alert you of a possible leak; however, being familiar with typical water use at your home may help you spot a leak before City staff. Visit the City's page about Water Leaks & Meter Reads for more information.

• I need water turned on/off at my property, can I just do it myself to save time?

  Tampering with a water meter for any purpose is strictly prohibited, and can result in penalties, prosecution, and charges on your bill. Water meters are City property, and turning water service on or off at the meter curb stop may only be done by City staff. If you do not have a homeowner-side gate valve for turning water on or off yourself and you need service reconnected or disconnected, please contact the City at 360-834-2462. If you are having an emergency after working hours and need water off immediately, please call the after-hours emergency water/sewer service at 360-737-0592. 

• If I have a leak what should I do?

  The City’s responsibility ends at the water meter. The customer is responsible from the meter to the house including plumbing inside of the house. Some leaks may be easy to fix, while others may require a plumber. Locate your master water supply valve and label it. The master supply-valve can be turned off easily in case of a major leak or broken pipe (DO NOT turn off the City-side curbstop on the meter). The customer is also responsible for keeping the meter box free from landscaping, fences, or any obstruction that could prevent meter reading or emergency access.

• Is the City water chlorinated?

  Yes, as per Department of Health regulations.

• My water has a funny smell/color/taste, what should I do?

  If you suspect something is not right with your water quality, please contact the Operations Center at 360-817-1563 or the Finance Department at 360-834-2462 to report your concerns. Someone from the Water Department will be dispatched to test your water for anything abnormal.

• Why do we have low water pressure, can you increase it?

  Water pressure can be affected by many things, including your proximity to a pump station, the elevation of your home, and the setting of a pressure reducer valve (PRV). The City is required to provide water between 20-150 psi, and pressure over 80psi requires the use of a PRV. If you have low water pressure/flow and it's a recent occurrence, it may be that your PRV needs to be adjusted or replaced. If you're not sure how to adjust/replace your PRV, a licensed plumber would be able to help.