Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Which school district will my child attend?
Unlike many communities, Phoenix is not served by a single district. In fact, there are more than 25 school districts in Phoenix plus dozens of charter schools. Visit the city's school districts webpage for a list of districts and links to their Web sites. To obtain general information about the school district, its educational programs, attendance boundaries or holiday schedules, contact the school district directly. The Arizona Department of Education’s Web site is also a useful resource for families that will be enrolling children in public or charter schools.
We won’t be able to build a pool right away. Where can our family find a pool to cool off in the summer?
Phoenix has pools all around the city that open in early summer. Call the city’s swim line at 602-534-SWIM (7946) or check online for fee and pool schedule information. Season passes and other discounts also are available.
How much is an average water and sewer bill for a single family household?
The average water and sewer bill, excluding solid waste (trash) disposal, is below $53 per month. To learn more about the water rates in Phoenix, see our billing Web site.
How good is the water quality in Phoenix?
The Water Services Department performs more than 4 million tests and measurements each year on more than 100 substances to ensure only the highest water quality that meets or surpasses state and federal drinking water regulations. To learn more about Phoenix water quality, visit the Water Quality page.
We’ve heard that Phoenix is in a drought. Should we be worried about water supply shortages if we move there?
Phoenix has sufficient water supplies to meet local needs even in times of moderate drought. Even so, conserving water now is environmentally responsible, saves money, and helps to save water for when it is truly needed. The City stays prepared for drought through water demand management.
How do I pay my water bill?
Just a few of the ways you can pay your water bill include: Pay in person, over the Internet, by phone, and by mail. For a complete list of bill payment options, visit our billing Web page.
When does the city pick up my trash?
Recycling and garbage collection days are different for different areas of the city. For information on days of collection or other solid waste collection or disposal question, contact Solid Waste Customer Service at 602-262-7251 or e-mail the Public Works Department.
I’m a gardener but I’m not sure what grows in the desert. Where do I find information about desert vegetation?
Call Phoenix Urban Forestry at 602-495-3763 or the Maricopa County Cooperative Extension Service at 602-470-8086. Visit the Nature Trail at Encanto Park, 15th Avenue and Encanto Boulevard, or Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park to see the trees and other plants.
Back home, we always cut down a live tree for the holidays. Can I do that in Arizona?
Yes. Call Tonto National Forest at 602-225-5200 to obtain a permit.
Who do I call to get my electricity turned on?
Salt River Project (SRP) and Arizona Public Service (APS) are the utility companies that provide electricity to the valley.
SRP’s customer service number is 602-236-8888.
To contact APS, call 602-371-6767.
How about residential gas service?
Southwest Gas Corp. is the residential gas provider. More information is available at the company's Web site or by calling their customer assistance line at 602-861-1999.