Tax Roll Process (Past Due Utilities)

Tax Roll Process (Utilities)

Wisconsin State Statute § 66.0809 requires municipalities to place delinquent water bills on the tax roll as a special charge against the property that was furnished with utility service. Link to Statute.

The ability to collect for unpaid utility bills through the property tax roll generally has worked to keep the amount of municipal uncollectible debt to a minimum. This limits losses caused by unpaid utility bills and protects other utility customers from rate increases.

The statute also required utilities to notify landlords of tenant delinquencies if the landlord requested notification in writing. 

Notification Timeline

  • October 1st – Utility determines which accounts are in arrears as of this date.

  • October 15th – Utility sends written notice of any amounts in arrears as of October 1st to all property owners and tenants. Utility shall also provide notice to each tenant against whom the municipality has a statutory lien.

  • November 1st – Utility applies a 10% penalty. Addition of the penalty is not optional.

  • November 16th – Utility transfers the unpaid arrears, plus the penalty, to the tax roll.

  • By December 17th – Utility shall file with clerk of courts a list of tenants against whom the municipality has a lien.

Download a Copy

To print----Right click and "Save image as" to download. Print from download or you may contact the municipal clerk at ashley@birchwoodvillagewi.com to request a PDF copy to be emailed to you.

Please include the title and date of post you are requesting.

Questions or Concerns?

Please contact the Village Hall with comments, questions, and/or concerns and we will be happy to help.

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