In person bill payment & permitting services at the Michael B. Coleman Government Center, 111 N. Front Street
office is open weekdays 7:30 am - 5 pm; the Sales and Permit Office is open weekdays 7:30 am - 4 pm.
After-hours Drop Box is available with free short-term parking in the garage across Long Street.
or call 614-645-8276 (weekdays 7 am - 6 pm). For non-business hours emergencies: Water 614-645-7788; Sewer 614-645-7102; Power 614-645-7627. View the
for description of emergencies.
What To Do if Your Pipes Freeze or Break
Learn how to thaw your pipes safely & what to do if they break.
- learn more
Winter Topics
Learn about: what to do if your pipes freeze (& how to prevent it), water main breaks, sledding & outdoor activities, keeping storm drains clear & more. Cold weather energy savings (and how to get a rebate for a programmable thermostat).
- learn more
Periods of High Call Volume Causing Longer Wait Times
The Call Center is experiencing some periods of higher call volume and longer wait times. If you have trouble getting through, please either try again weekdays 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, email us at [email protected], or use the Customer Portal.
- learn more
Bill Pay assistance and payment plans
Behind on your bill? Customers that missed payments are being notified by mail that the delinquency turn-off process resumed 8/23/21, but there is still time to get help. Columbus residents may qualify for CARES Act payment assistance and anyone can apply for a payment plan. Learn about other resources, discounts you may qualify for, and other ways to reduce your bill.
- learn more
Consumer Alert - Payment, ID Badges, Collections and More
If someone identifies themselves as a city employee attempting to collect utility bill payment or a water sample, please call your local police department (Columbus: 614-645-4545). Our employees DO NOT collect bill payment in the field or over the phone; they wear a photo ID badge & a city-issued uniform. In addition, be aware of third party companies that charge additional fees to process payments to utility companies.
- learn more
Request a Special Payment Plan for Your City Utility Bill
You can apply directly online to request a Special Payment Plan (SPP) on your City utility bills. Request an extension of one to three months on your current charges.
- learn more
Establish New Utility Service
Information on requesting new water, sewer or power service. Contact information for closing accounts, call: 645-8276 weekdays, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
- learn more
Bill Payment
Pay Online and other ways/locations to pay your utility bill. Check for unpaid sewer charges, learn how to reduce your bill, or complete a Tenant Billing Agreement.
- learn more
Rates, Fees, and Connection Charges
Find current utility rates, charts detail the various service charges and fees associated with connecting to city water, sewers and fire hydrants, rates for power, festival rates & more. Average costs includes what an average bill runs, running toilets & faucets, outdoor watering and filling a swimming pool.
- learn more
Citywide Street Lighting
To report an existing streetlight outage online, visit the 311 Center or call 614-645-3111 (weekdays 7 a.m. - 6 p.m.) Information about street lighting options.
- learn more
Find a Certified Contractor
Authorization is required prior to working on City water or sewer lines. Residents can search the Citizen Portal for approved contractors. Note: DPU does not endorse or recommend any contractor.
- learn more
Meter Reading & Bill Calculation
It is recommended you check the meter and remote reader at least once a year, taking the reading from each device to compare with one another.
Learn how to find and read your meter and calculate bills. This is especially useful if you receive an unusually high or low bill. Also, learn where the shut-off valve is; you may need this in an emergency if you have a water leak.
- learn more
Do Not Flush - No Wipes in the Pipes
Remember, no wipes in the pipes! Only toilet paper is truly flushable, despite what labels may claim. Anything else is not designed to break down, can clog home pipes and city sewers and must go in the trash instead. Here’s a friendly reminder on what not to flush, (including so-called "flushable wipes") to avoid clogs. Please report any public sewer issues to our Sewer Maintenance Operations Center, at 614-645-7102.
- learn more
Flooding and Water Leak Info
Information and resources (including basement backup prevention devices) for customers experiencing flooding and water leak issues such as: basement or yard flooding; water meter leaks; leaks in the street or a hydrant; blocked storm drains causing street flooding &/or ice; safety & cleanup information for basement flooding; how to locate your main water control valve to turn-off during an emergency.
- learn more
Keep It Clean
Prevent water pollution through everyday living with simple tips to keep our water clean. Simple steps you can take at home such as: disposal of household hazardous waste, yard waste (including pet waste) and cooking grease; making simple lawn care choices; reducing stormwater runoff; maintaining cars & driveways properly; litter clean-ups & more.
- learn more
Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in protecting our natural resources, get involved in
our public education programs. You, your community or school group can
participate in stream-bank litter cleanups, invasive plant removal & many
other activities that promote awareness & appreciation of our natural
waterways.
- learn more
Customer Portal & Paperless Billing Options
Visit our Customer Portal to sign up for eBill, pay online with a check or credit card, auto pay and more.
- learn more