New Resident

What Do I Need to Sign Up for Utility Service?

According to Federal Law, new customers need to show a valid US Government ID, such as: state driver's license, military ID, passport, or VISA. You also need to complete and return a "New Customer" application form (PDF) to the City Office.

Do I Have to Pay a Deposit When I Sign Up for Utility Service?

Sioux Center Municipal Utilities (SCMU) asks for a deposit because SCMU bills for services after they have been provided. SCMU collects deposits based upon a customer's credit history with us or a former utility provider. If a customer has a good payment history, then a service deposit is not required. SCMU reserves the right to charge a deposit if:

  • Past payment history with the utility is unsatisfactory.
  • Customer has no, or insufficient, credit history with the utility.
  • Customer has no credit or unsatisfactory credit with another utility provider.

Calculating the Deposit Amount

The amount of an initial service deposit will be no more than the highest month's bill in the last 12-month period at the address you are applying for.

Accepted Forms of Payment

SCMU accepts cash, checks (no two-party checks), credit cards, or automatic withdrawal from a checking or saving account. More information about paying your bill.

When Will I Receive My Bill and How Long Will I Have to Pay It?

SCMU mails all bills on the last working day of the month. All bills are due in full on/or before the 20th of the month.

Can I Have My Utility Payment Automatically Debited From My Bank Account?

With our Automatic Withdrawal payment plan your utility payments are automatically deducted from your checking or savings account. You will still receive a monthly statement so you know the amount being deducted from your bank account and at the bottom of your statement, it will be marked "Automatic payment-do not pay." Please fill out the Automatic Withdrawal form (PDF) and return it to the City Office with a voided check (not a deposit slip). The payment will be deducted on the 20th of the month. If the 20th falls on a Saturday, it will be deducted on Friday and if the 20th falls on Sunday, it also will be deducted on Friday.

Do You Offer Budget Billing? Can I Enroll As a New Customer?

We prefer that new customers wait one year before enrolling in budget billing. The monthly budget amount is the average of actual usage for the previous 12 months and will include what we anticipate for rate increases.

Who Do I Contact With Questions Regarding My Bill?

Call the City Office at 712-722-0761 or visit our office during normal business hours at 335 1st Avenue NW from 7:00 am to 4:30 pm. The office is closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Cover of booklet with utility workers
Click on the Welcome to Sioux Center cover image to view the new customer welcome booklet.