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1. What is my Capacity Fee based on?

The Capacity Fee is based on projected water use in gallons per day (GPD).

2. How was the current Capacity Fee derived?

All Capacity Fees must follow Government Code section 66000, commonly known as the “Mitigation Fee Act.” The fee is determined in the 2021 Water Capacity Fee Report (Capacity Study) by dividing the total net assets of the Authority’s system by the quantity of equivalent dwelling units (EDUs). The Capacity Study lists the value of total assets, minus debt service, as $280,878,078. This number is divided by 51,178, the number of EDUs in Sweetwater Authority, for a value of $5,490 per EDU.

3. When was the Capacity Fee last changed?

The Capacity Fee last changed in July 2021 and was decreased based on updated fees developed in the 2021 Water Capacity Fee Report.

4. What is an EDU?

An Equivalent Dwelling Unit, or EDU, is a unit that relates all residential, commercial, and industrial water use to a typical single-family residential unit.

5. What is the average use in gallons per day (GPD) in the Sweetwater Authority service area?

A table showing the average use in the service area at the time the last Capacity Fee study was completed (2021) is presented below.

Type of Use	GPD	% of Base EDU
Single Family Residential	297	100%
Mobile Home	107	36%
Apartment/Multi-Family	165	56%
Commercial/Industrial	297	100%

6. I’m building a new home. What will my Capacity Fee be?

The current Capacity Fee for a single-family residence is $5,490.

7. I’m building a new home with an accessory unit, but only want 1 water service. What will my Capacity Fee be?

An ADU added to the site of an existing or proposed single-family dwelling shall be charged an Authority capacity fee that is proportional to the burden of the proposed ADU based upon the number of its fixture units.

8. I’m adding an accessory dwelling unit to an existing single family residence. What will my Capacity Fee be?

The Capacity Fee for the accessory dwelling unit will be proportional to the burden of the proposed ADU based upon the number of its fixture units unless it meets any of the exemptions listed in the Authority’ Rates and Rules.

9. Do I still need to furnish plumbing fixture unit count with my plan submittal to Sweetwater Authority since you charge Capacity Fees based on gallons per day?

Yes. The plumbing fixture unit count is necessary to verify service lateral and meter sizes.

10. I’m constructing a 10 unit condominium project on a vacant parcel. What will my Capacity Fee be?

The Capacity Fee will be $5,490 x 56% ($3,050) x 10 EDUs = $30,500.

11. I’m redeveloping a Single Family Dwelling into a 4-unit attached townhouse with a separate irrigation meter, using the existing water service for irrigation. What will my Capacity Fee be?

The Capacity Fee will be $5,490 x 56% ($3,050) x 4 EDUs = $12,200 for the 4 units, $5,490 for the irrigation service, less a credit of $5,490 for the existing dwelling unit, which will be reclassified as an irrigation meter. The total Capacity Fee will therefore be $12,200.

12. I have 2 existing residences in a duplex on my property currently being served by a single water meter, and plan to add another water meter so each house can be billed separately. Is there a fee?

There is no Capacity Fee. The Capacity Fee only applies to new demand on the water system.

13. How will the Capacity Fee be determined for commercial buildings?

The projected demand (in gallons per day) as provided by the owner/developer is divided by 297 gallons per day to establish the number of equivalent dwelling units (EDUs). The resulting number of EDUs is then multiplied by the base Capacity Fee of $5,490 to determine the total Capacity Fee for the projected demand.  In the absence of a projected demand, the Authority can use historical data to estimate demand based on water use type.

14. I have a Single-Family Dwelling and I plan to add 2 ADUs and both new units require internal fire protection. What will my capacity fee be & how will I be allowed to serve fire protection to the unit?

The Capacity Fee will be $5,490 x 56% ($3,050) x 2 EDUs = $6,100 for the 2 units. Internal fire sprinklers, if required by the local fire jurisdiction, shall be supplied water by a dedicated water service.

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1. Why does water become discolored?

Sweetwater Authority takes pride in consistently delivering water that not only meets, but exceeds federal and state water quality standards. Occasionally, however, certain occurrences within the Authority’s water sources or distribution system can affect water color, taste and odor.

2. Is discolored water safe to drink and use?

In most cases, yes. If water appears brown or yellow, it usually means a change in water flow has caused some of the naturally-occurring mineral sediments (mainly iron and manganese) which may accumulate inside of the pipeline, to get stirred up or break free. Inside your home, you may also notice an accumulation of mineral sediment in your toilets over time. 

When a slight yellow/greenish tint is observed when filling a white sink or bathtub, but is not apparent in a glass of water, the observed tint may be due to naturally occurring color from Sweetwater Reservoir. Our water treatment processes are able to remove most, but not all natural color from the water. 

If the water has an unusual color (not described above), please do not drink or use the water. Call 619-420-1413 for emergency assistance. There may be a chemical backflow in your water service.

3. What should I do about brown or yellow water?

Try running the water at an outside hose bib for several minutes to flush the line between your meter and house. Once the water has cleared entering your home, the next step is to run the faucets inside your home for several minutes to remove any remaining discolored water. 

We recommend monitoring water quality (color) prior to starting laundry to avoid potential stains. If your laundry has been stained as a result of discolored water please contact us at 619-420-1413 for further assistance.

4. What if the water looks milky or cloudy?

Cloudy water is usually caused by air trapped in the water lines. Pour water into a pitcher or glass, and let sit for a few minutes. The water should become clear. If it does, the water is safe for all uses.

5. Why does my water taste or smell "funny"?

There are two common reasons for water to taste or smell unusual. One is from chlorine, used to kill germs in the water, and the other is from algae, which commonly grows in surface water reservoirs, including Sweetwater Reservoir. Algae occurrences are seasonal and usually happen during warm summer months. Taste and odors caused by algae are typically described as grassy, musty and earthy.

6. What odors could signal a threat to my health?

If the water has a "chemical" smell, or if it smells like sewage, it could indicate a dangerous backflow condition. Do not drink or use the water. Call 619-420-1413 for emergency assistance.

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1. 1. Why is Sweetwater Authority required to review jurisdictional building, grading, or improvement plans (currently in review or approved) for my project?

Each newly constructed multiunit residential structure or newly constructed mixed-use residential and commercial structure for which an application for a water connection, or more than one connection, is submitted to the Authority, shall measure the quantity of water supplied to each individual residential dwelling unit. California State Senate Bill SB-7 states such measurements are a condition of new water service. The measurement may be by individual water meters or submeters. The owner of the structure shall install individual meters or submeters that comply with all laws and regulations governing the approval of meter types or the installation, maintenance, reading, billing, and testing of meters, including, but not limited to, the California Plumbing Code and California Water Code. 

Jurisdictional plan review provides the Authority the ability to:

• Verify sub-metering is provided
• Verify if the new or existing water meter are adequate for the proposed project (e.g. multiple units, landscape, fire protection, etc.)
• Review design of proposed facilities to ensure conformance to Sweetwater Authority’s Design and Construction Standards 
• Ensure compliance with State and Sweetwater Authority Cross-connection requirements (backflow, greywater systems, pumps, etc.).
• Ensure compliance with State and Sweetwater Authority required water facility clearances 
• Verify the water meter and fire protection system requirements associated with internal fire protection
• Ensure requested water facilities and required capacity can be provided from an existing Sweetwater Authority water main(s)
• Verify water service is available to the site
• Calculate capacity fees/charges for both Sweetwater Authority and the San Diego County Water Authority
• Categorize the type of water service, it provisions for activation/deactivation, and the applicable metering rate
• Use for cost estimate of proposed water facilities
• Verify and update the water service account to reflect any additional dwelling units to the site, e.g. change from Residential to Multi-Unit number of units 1 to 2, etc.

Also see question #3 below.

2. 2. Why is Sweetwater Authority required to inspect the size of my existing/proposed private water supply pipeline?

Sweetwater Authority water meter sizing is based on the Authority Design Standards, CA Plumbing Code, and the National Fire Protection Association, if applicable. Therefore, to confirm compliance with these Standards, the Authority inspects the sizing of the private pipeline to ensure water capacity and minimum water pressure is provided for the service.

Properly sized private water supply pipelines provide:

• Adequate water capacity
• Sufficient residual water pressure to avoid cross-connection
• Adequate water pressure to operate appliances
• Sufficient flows

3. 3. If I already have a water service serving my site, why do I need to inform Sweetwater Authority about the project and/or submit City or County plans?

Sweetwater Authority's Rates and Rules indicates no person shall connect a service lateral or other pipe to any Authority water main, meter, or lateral, or change the type of use of the water meter, or implement a “material change” (e.g. Building Permit, sub-division of parcel, change in use, tenant improvement, etc.) without filing an application for water service and provide copies of any city or county approved grading plans, including but not limited to, local fire protection agency flow requirements, site plans, floor plans, plumbing plan including total fixture-unit count and proposed water demands in gallons per day.

Also see question question #1 above.

4. 4. Must I notify Sweetwater Authority of a connection to its distribution system, change of water meter use, or “Material Change” to my water service (e.g. Building Permit, tenant improvement, etc.)?

Yes. You must notify Sweetwater Authority of a connection to its distribution system, change of water meter use, or “Material Change” to your existing water service  (e.g. Building Permit, sub-division of parcel, change in use, tenant improvements).

Owners and applicants are required to adhere to the Authority’s Rates and Rules. Non-compliance with the Authority’s Rates and Rules could result in denial or discontinuance of water service.

5. 5. Why does Sweetwater Authority not allow me to tap and connect to my existing water service to serve my accessory dwelling unit?

Sweetwater Authority Standards requires each water service to include a corporation stop (valve) at the water main connection, and an angle stop (valve) at the meter connection point, and a consumer ball valve (newer installation) post meter connection. The placement of the corporation stop and angle stop allows the Authority to maintain its facilities, while the post meter ball valve permits the owner to operate their water supply. A connection to an existing service lateral, or post meter location would not allow the Authority to isolate a service, say for repair, without affecting more than one water service. 

6. 6. Why does Sweetwater Authority require Backflow Devices on water services?

Per State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook (CCCPH), Sweetwater Authority is required to protect the public water supply from contamination by implementation of a cross-connection control program.

1. The adoption of operating rules or ordinances to implement the cross-connection program.
2. The conducting of surveys to identify water user premises where cross-connections are likely to occur 
3. The provisions of backflow protection by the water user at the user's connection or within the user's premises or both 
4. The provision of at least one person trained in cross-connection control to carry out the cross-connection program 
5.  The establishment of a procedure or system for testing backflow preventers 
6. The maintenance of records of locations, tests, and repairs of backflow preventers

7. 7. I have a Single-Family Dwelling and I plan to add two ADU’s and both new units require internal fire protection. How will I be allowed to serve fire protection to the site?

The Authority shall verify existing water service and meter is adequate to provide water demands due to the new units. If increased demands cannot be provide by the existing service and meter, the developer will be required to install a new service and meter to provide domestic water supply. Internal fire sprinklers, if required by the local fire jurisdiction, shall be supplied water by a dedicated water service.

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1. Who operates the fishing program at Sweetwater Reservoir?

Sweetwater Authority, a public agency that provides drinking water residents of Chula Vista, National City and Bonita, owns and operates Sweetwater Reservoir and the fishing prorgram. California’s Department of Fish and Game inspects the facility to assure anglers have fishing licenses and follow state rules and regulations.

2. When can I fish at Sweetwater Reservoir?

For current fishing program hours, click here.

3. Why allow fishing on a drinking water reservoir?

When residents voted for public ownership of the water system in the 1970s, voters asked for public fishing. Sweetwater Authority's Governing Board, in seeking a balance between human and environmental needs, supports the fishing program as a service to the entire region.

4. Will the Sweetwater Reservoir fishing program be expanded?

It is unlikely that the fishing program will be expanded. Water from Sweetwater Reservoir is treated at the Perdue Plant near the shoreline, and it is unlikely that California’s Department of Health Services would ever approve boats or potential body contact activities such as canoeing, kayaking, swimming, water skiing, wading, or float tubes on the reservoir.

5. Will I ever be able to fish on the north shore of the Sweetwater Reservoir?

No. The water stored in Sweetwater Reservoir and the wildlife that live there must be carefully protected. Fishing area limits are posted on the south shore.

6. What type of concessions will be available at the site?

None. Visitors must bring their own food, drink, bait and tackle, including drinking water. Portable restrooms and trashcans are provided. Please note that there is limited shade on site.

7. Will the lake be stocked with trout and other fish species?

There are no plans to stock the lake. We expect healthy populations of bass, catfish,
bullhead, bluegill, perch, rock bass, and carp. Catch and release practices are preferred to avoid over-fishing.

8. Are boats allowed at Sweetwater Reservoir or Loveland Reservoir?

No. Motor boats could create problems with fuel contamination or non-native plant or animal species. Non-motorized watercraft might cause body contact with the reservoir, which is prohibited.

9. What other recreation is allowed?

Trails are provided for walks, photography, and bird watching. Bicycles, horses and pets are allowed on other designated trails (outside of the fishing facility).

10. Is camping allowed?

No. There is no overnight parking and no camping at the Sweetwater Reservoir Fishing Facility. Camping is available at the County’s Sweetwater Summit Park, west of the Facility. The address is
3218 Summit Meadow Road
Bonita, CA 91902

The information number is (619) 472-7572.

11. How many people are allowed to fish each day at Sweetwater Reservoir?

There are 155 parking spaces at the Sweetwater Reservoir Fishing Facility. If the lot is full, visitors may pay a day use fee to park at Sweetwater Summit Campground and hike in. Caretakers are authorized to refuse further admissions as needed.

12. Is bowfishing allowed?

No. The Governing Board has decided against this form of fishing.

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1. 1. Why is Sweetwater Authority conducting a study to build a floating solar project?

This project could help offset Sweetwater Authority’s electric costs by roughly 66%, a savings of roughly $500,000 each year, allowing us to not only ensure greater rate stability for our customers, but also pay for much needed infrastructure development.

With SDG&E’s rates expected to continue to rise, potential savings to Sweetwater Authority and its customers will only increase.

2. 2. What is the size and scope of the project being studied?

Sweetwater Authority is proposing to build a 3.7 MW floating solar project on roughly 9.5 acres, or about 1%, of the reservoir surface area (when full).

Locating the project on water as opposed to land avoids a number of issues, including the cost of procuring land, potential impact to home values by construction on land, impacting recreational use, and impacts to natural habitat and other environmental resources.

3. 3. Will this project impact the safety of my water?

No. Sweetwater Authority is required to provide water that meets or exceeds all state and federal drinking water health standards. The project will require approval by the State of California’s Division of Drinking Water, which is tasked with verifying and providing permits for projects that impact drinking water reservoirs to ensure water quality and safety. Furthermore, the Sweetwater Reservoir water is treated at the Perdue Water Treatment Plant prior to delivery to our customers.

This project will not be allowed to proceed without ensuring the water we deliver to our customers remains safe.

4. 4. What are the environmental impacts of this project?

As part of this study, Sweetwater Authority staff is conducting the necessary analysis to inform a California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliant initial study, which is anticipated to be completed by November 2024.

At the conclusion of the initial study, a recommendation for Mitigated Negative Declaration or an Environmental Impact Report will be presented to the Governing Board.

5. 5. What is the benefit of this project to ratepayers?

With roughly 65% of our service area designated a disadvantaged community, 43% severely disadvantaged and 22% moderately disadvantaged, our ability to find creative solutions to help lower costs to our customers is critical.

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1. When will Loveland and/or Sweetwater Reservoir spill?

It depends on the intensity of the storms and the amount of runoff generated.

2. Will Sweetwater Authority release any water prior to a spill?

If the water level at either Loveland Reservoir or Sweetwater Reservoir is high enough that a spill is likely, Sweetwater Authority may perform a controlled release of water through the emergency outlets to avoid an uncontrolled spill, in order to reduce flooding issues downstream. Sweetwater Authority also periodically performs controlled transfers of water from Loveland Reservoir to Sweetwater Reservoir through the Sweetwater River channel to secure additional water supply for customers.  

3. How large is the Sweetwater watershed?

The Sweetwater watershed encompasses 230-square miles, and stretches from the Cleveland National Forest to the San Diego Bay. 2/3s of the watershed is above Loveland Reservoir.

4. Are the dams safe?

Both dams are structurally sound, and are frequently inspected by dam safety experts.

5. Who or what is impacted by the reservoirs' spilling?

Mostly golf courses and parks. Portions of Rancho San Diego, Chula Vista, Spring Valley and Bonita that are prone to flooding may be impacted.

6. When was the last time the reservoirs spilled?

Sweetwater Reservoir last spilled in 1998. Loveland Reservoir last spilled in 2011.

7. What is the distance between Loveland Reservoir and Sweetwater Reservoir?

The distance between Loveland Reservoir and Sweetwater Reservoir is 17 miles.