FAQs • Kinston, NC • CivicEngage

What is considered meter tampering?: Utility meters can be manipulated, thus causing them to stop, under-register or even bypassing the meter. Consumers who tamper with meters effectively use utilities without paying for them. This theft or fraud can be dangerous as well as dishonest and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. To report tampering, please call our 24 Hour Customer Service at 252-939-3282.

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Public Services

1. How do I apply for utility service and will I need a deposit?: For questions, please call our 24 Hour Customer Service at (252) 939-3282 or you can view our Application Requirements For Utility Service (PDF)

2. Does Kinston Public Services offer "budget pay" for utility bills?: Yes. To qualify, you must have utility service for at least one year at your location and no more than 2 late fees in the past 12 months. Budget pay accounts are adjusted and settled annually.

3. Where can I get answers regarding my garbage and recycling service questions?: View our FAQ’s concerning Environmental Services.
Environmental Services FAQ's

4. What is the cost to reconnect utility service(s) after being cutout for nonpayment?: If the request is made before 4 p.m., the cost is $25 for same day service. After 4 p.m., it is $75 for same day service. if service is cutout at the pole, reconnect is $100. Also, all balance due on the account, including past due and current bill amounts, must be paid before services will be reconnected.

5. As a resident, what services do I receive for my monthly $31.08 Environmental Services fee?: Weekly collection of garbage (green roll-out cart and bags placed beside it), yard debris, and C&D debris. Monthly collection of recyclables (blue roll-out cart), such as clean glass, plastic, paper, and cardboard. Seasonal bulk leaf collection from December through January. City-wide vector control, which is the control of mosquitoes and other pests with the application of pesticides and larvacides.

6. What should I do if I am medically unable to push my garbage or recycling cart to the curb for collection?: Contact our 24-Hour Customer Service at 252-939-3282 and ask about a medical exemption for garbage service.

7. Is my electric bill twice as high as Duke Energy Progress?: No. Currently, residential electric bills are an average of 13.8% higher than Duke Energy Progress.

8. What is considered meter tampering?: Utility meters can be manipulated, thus causing them to stop, under-register or even bypassing the meter. Consumers who tamper with meters effectively use utilities without paying for them. This theft or fraud can be dangerous as well as dishonest and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. To report tampering, please call our 24 Hour Customer Service at 252-939-3282.

9. What is ElectriCities?: ElectriCities is a membership organization including public power communities in North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia. ElectriCities also provides management services to the state's two municipal power agencies - North Carolina Municipal Power Agency Number 1 and North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency. Kinston is a member of the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency. To learn more, visit the ElectriCities website.

10. What is the North Carolina Eastern Municipal Power Agency (NCEMPA)?: NCEMPA consists of 32 cities and towns in eastern North Carolina, including some of the largest cities in the region, that own and operate their electric systems. NCEMPA was formed in 1982 and provides wholesale power to its 32 participants. Kinston is one of the 32 members. To learn more, visit the North Carolina Public Power website.

11. What is the Neuse Regional Water and Sewer Authority (NRWASA)?: The Neuse Regional Water and Sewer Authority is a cooperative partnership of water and sewer service providers formed in 2000 to develop regional solutions for meeting future resource needs. To learn more, visit the NRWASA website.

12. What should I do if my water is discolored?: If the water is only discolored when you are using hot water, it may be caused by your hot water heater. If your water is also discolored when using cold water, contact our 24 Hour Customer Service at 252-939-3282. A crew will be dispatched to flush the water lines servicing your location. Click here for guidelines on how to flush your hot water heater (PDF).

13. How do I know who maintains specific streets in Kinston?: Our Engineering team created a map to show residents which streets are City, State & privately maintained. Click here to view!