FAQs • Joplin, MO • CivicEngage

Should I report problems with my water meter?: Water meters are housed in meter boxes, which are carefully installed in the ground and covered with a heavy lid. This is to ensure that no one can fall into one or otherwise hurt themselves. However, occasionally the box will settle below ground level, dirt will erode from around the box, or someone will remove the lid. Please report any problems with your meter box by calling Missouri-American Water Company at (866)-430-0820.

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Utilities

Various vendors in the Joplin area offer cable television and internet services. This site provides a listing of providers.

2. Are there regulations regarding City water?: This City of Joplin program regulates the connections between drinking water and non-drinkable water piping systems. For information on requirements for installation and testing of back-flow prevention devices, call the Building and Code Inspection Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 523.

3. Where do I report problems with City drainage?: To report a clogged storm sewer inlet, contact the Public Works Department at (417) 624-0240 ext. 565. For storm sewer channel maintenance questions contact the Public Works Department at (417) 624-0820 ext.561. For information about storm water drainage projects, contact the City of Joplin Engineering Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 530.

4. Are there regulations on what can be discharged in the sewer system?: City ordinances and state and federal laws prohibit the discharge of some materials into the sanitary sewer system. If your business has a sewage discharge that is composed of a higher concentration of pollutants than domestic or residential waste, call the Public Works Department at (417) 624-0820 ext. 500 to receive information about permitting, pretreatment requirements and charges. Failure to do so may result in civil and criminal penalties.

5. How do I obtain a plumbing permit?: For information regarding plumbing construction permits call the City of Joplin Building and Code Enforcement Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 521.

6. Who do I call about plumbing standards and codes?: For information regarding plumbing codes and standards call the City of Joplin Building & Code Enforcement Division at (417) 624-0820, ext. 521.

7. How can I dispose of septic tank contents?: If you have septic or recreational vehicle holding tank waste to dispose of, call the Superintendent of Wastewater Plants at (417) 624-3615.

8. How do I report sewer back-up/stoppage?: If you notice a sewage backup or stoppage, call the City of Joplin Public Works Department at (417) 624-0820 ext. 565. After hours, please call (417) 624-0820 ext. 420.

9. Where do I direct questions about my sewer and trash bill?: Questions regarding monthly sewer and trash charges or rates can be answered by calling the City of Joplin Finance Department (417) 627-2955.

10. How can I find the location of an existing sewer line?: For information about the location of an existing sanitary sewer line, or about connecting to an existing sanitary sewer, call the Engineering Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 530.

11. How can I report sewer odors?: If you notice unusual odors coming from sewer lines, call the Engineering Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 565.

12. What utilities are provided by the City?: Wastewater services are provided by the City of Joplin. For wastewater service, contact the Engineering Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 530. For water contact Missouri-American Water Company at (866) 430-0820. For gas, contact Missouri Gas Energy at 800-582-1234. For electric, contact Empire District Electric Company at (417) 625-5100. For cable television, call Cable One at (417) 624-6340.

13. How do I find out about utility easements?: For information about the location of utility easements and the restrictions involved, contact the Engineering Division at (417) 624-0820 ext. 530.

14. How do I find the locations of utility lines?: Before digging, you should know the location of utility lines. Through the cooperation of local utility providers, you only need to make one call to 1-800-DIGRITE.

15. Can I contact customer service about water and wastewater?: Water customer service is handled by Missouri-American Water Company. For questions concerning your monthly water bill, contact their customer service number at (866)-430-0820. For questions about your wastewater bill, please contact the City of Joplin Finance Department at (417) 627-2955.

16. Should I know the location of water and wastewater lines?: Before digging, you should know the location of the water and wastewater lines. For this information, call 1-800-DIGRITE.

17. Can I report a water main leak?: If you see large amounts of water running down the street, boiling up out of the ground or other evidence of a water leak in the system, please call City of Joplin Public Works Department at (417) 624-0820 ext. 530. After 5:00 p.m. and on weekends (417) 623-3131. Call Missouri-American Water Company at (866)-430-0820.

18. Should I report problems with my water meter?: Water meters are housed in meter boxes, which are carefully installed in the ground and covered with a heavy lid. This is to ensure that no one can fall into one or otherwise hurt themselves. However, occasionally the box will settle below ground level, dirt will erode from around the box, or someone will remove the lid. Please report any problems with your meter box by calling Missouri-American Water Company at (866)-430-0820.

19. Who do I call about water pipes/frozen water pipes?: Please call Missouri-American Water Company at (866)-430-0820.

20. Who I call with questions about my water pressure?: Please call Missouri-American Water Company at (866)-430-0820.