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California

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on September 25, 2020.

For more up-to-date information on the relief programs available in California, we recommend that you visit the Secretary of State's website or the California COVID-19 portal.

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Description of Program and Relief

Restriction on Water Shutoffs

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order on April 2, 2020 restricting water shutoffs for residential and some commercial customers.

The order will prohibit water service providers from discontinuing service to residential customers for nonpayment as a result of COVID-19. The order will also restore water service for occupied residences that have had their water shut off for non-payment since March 4, 2020.

The restriction on water shutoffs will also apply to small businesses in critical infrastructure sectors, as defined by the State Public Health Officer, such as the food and agriculture sector, healthcare and public health sector, and critical manufacturing sector.

This measure does not relieve customers of their obligations to pay for water.

Government or Lead Agency

California Executive Department

Dates Available

For residential customers, restriction effective March 4, 2020.

For qualifying commercial customers, restriction effective April 3, 2020.

Eligibility Requirements/Restrictions

Residential customers unable to pay for water service; residential customers who have had their water shut off for non-payment since March 4, 2020; and small businesses in critical infrastructure sectors. For a full list of critical infrastructure sectors see here.

Application Deadlines (If Applicable)

N/A

Contact for More Information

For more information, visit the California Public Utilities Commission here.

List of Additional Information

For the Office of the Governor’s announcement about the water shutoff suspension, see here.

For Governor Newsom’s executive order protecting homes and small businesses from water shutoffs, see here.

For related press coverage, see here.


© 2021 Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP. This does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. In some jurisdictions, this publication may be considered attorney advertising. Past representations are no guarantee of future outcomes.

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