Worcester County Announces Water and Wastewater Rate Increases for Fiscal Year 2026

Worcester County, MD - Worcester County has implemented rate increases across its 11 water and wastewater sanitary service areas (SSAs) effective this quarter. The increases are designed to address rising operational costs and ensure adequate funding for system maintenance.

County officials stated that the service areas had been underfunded for several years. Without the rate adjustments, revenues would not cover actual expenses for fiscal year 2026 in each service area. The areas were originally designed to fund themselves through user fees.

The new rate structure includes increased base fees per equivalent dwelling unit (EDU) and modified usage tiers for both residential and commercial customers. The West Ocean City SSA underwent a significant change, transitioning from a fixtures-based billing system to a per-EDU basis. This change aligns with the county's efforts to standardize rate structures across all service areas.

Homeowners who irrigate their properties typically see higher water bills during this quarter. The remaining three quarters generally reflect lower usage and corresponding reduced fees.
Several factors contributed to the need for increased rates. Operating costs have risen due to higher chemical prices and additional regulatory requirements.

The county must now conduct testing for PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly known as forever chemicals. These substances are widely used, long-lasting chemicals that can pose risks to human health and the environment.

Worcester County has also introduced accessibility fees for undeveloped properties with one or more EDUs. Some areas were previously subject to these fees. The accessibility fees support the county's goal of establishing uniform and transparent rates across all SSAs while ensuring adequate funding for current operations and future infrastructure improvements.

Undeveloped properties holding EDUs are guaranteed future access to public water and sewer services. These properties contribute to the operating and maintenance needs of their respective service areas. The accessibility fees ensure all properties that benefit from public water and wastewater system access contribute proportionally to infrastructure costs, including treatment plants, pump stations, and distribution mains. Without these fees, connected users would bear the entire cost burden.

Property owners of undeveloped land may return their allocated EDUs. However, due to capacity limitations and development demands, EDUs may not be available if owners later decide to develop their property. Property owners would need to repurchase EDUs at the assessed cost at the time of purchase.

Residents seeking information about EDUs can contact Worcester County Environmental Programs at 410-632-1220, extension 1601. Questions about accessibility fees should be directed to the Water and Wastewater Division's billing department at 410-632-0686, option 4.

Detailed rate information for each of the 11 service areas is available on the county's website.