LEVEL 1 DROUGHT ADVISORY
Effective April 28, 2026
The Georgia EPD has issued a Level 1 Drought Advisory for the state of Georgia. Currently, no mandatory water-use restrictions are in effect. However, residents and businesses are strongly encouraged to begin voluntary water conservation measures to support the long-term reliability of the community’s water supply.
Recommended Water Conservation Measures
Indoor Water Use
• Shorten shower duration and turn off water when not actively needed.
• Operate dishwashers and washing machines only when full.
• Check toilets for leaks
• Repair any plumbing leaks promptly.
Outdoor Water Use
• Irrigate lawns and plants only when necessary, preferably early mornings or late afternoon and limit watering to no more than one inch per week.
• Apply mulch to landscaped areas to help retain soil moisture.
• Use brooms instead of hoses to clean driveways, sidewalks, and patios.
• Wash vehicles using a bucket or select commercial car washes that recycle water.
Property Maintenance
• Inspect irrigation systems for leaks, overspray, and proper operation.
• Utilize pool covers to reduce evaporation.
• Collect rainwater for approved outdoor uses where permitted.
Community Participation
The cooperation of all residents and businesses is essential. Early conservation efforts help manage system demand and may reduce the need for more restrictive measures in the future. The City of Commerce appreciates your commitment to responsible water use during this advisory period.
Water & Sewer Capacity Procedures
In accordance with the City’s Sewer and Water Capacity Plan & Allocation Procedures that were adopted by City Council on October 17, 2022, water and sewer capacity must be formally requested for all new development projects.
Please note that allocations will be made based on estimated flow, available system capacity, and approval is not guaranteed as infrastructure limitations must also be evaluated. Requests are typically filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
For questions regarding availability, or to be added to the wait list, please contact Matthew Hailey.
Water / Sewer
It is the responsibility of this department to install and maintain the drinking water distribution system and the sewage collection system for the city and surrounding areas of Jackson, Banks, and Madison counties. This includes the storage tanks, pipes, fire hydrants, and meters. In addition, all extensions of both systems for residential and commercial developments are reviewed and approved for compliance with Water/Sewer standards as approved by the Georgia EPD.
PRESS RELEASE – 2025
AMI WATER METER REPLACEMENT 2025
Water & Sewer Rates
Water Rates (effective March 1, 2026)
| Monthly Rate | Insite City Rate | Outside City Rate |
| Minimum Bill | $4.00 | $7.00 |
| Per 1,000 Gallons | $6.61 | $9.32 |
Sewer Rates (effective March 1, 2026)
| Monthly Rate | Inside City Rate | Ouside City Rate |
| Minimum Bill | $4.00 | $7.00 |
| Per 1,000 Gallons | $7.58 | $12.24 |
These rates are based on CPI increase of 2.4% above the 2025 rates.
Contact the Water Distribution Superintendent 706.335.5202