Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What is AMI and what does it stand for?

Accepted Answer

AMI stands for Advanced Metering Infrastructure. It is a system of smart water meters that communicate usage data wirelessly to our utility in near real-time. Unlike traditional meters that require a technician to physically read them, AMI meters transmit readings automatically — providing accurate, timely data to both the utility and customers.

Question 2

Why is the City of St. Petersburg upgrading to AMI?

Accepted Answer

Our existing water meters are aging and increasingly difficult to maintain. AMI technology allows us to read meters remotely, detect leaks faster, reduce operational costs, and provide customers with better data about their water usage. The upgrade is part of our long-term commitment to delivering reliable, efficient water service to all of St. Petersburg.

Question 3

Who is managing the AMI project?

Accepted Answer

The AMI project is managed by the City of St. Petersburg's Water Resources Department. The project involves coordination between our utility operations team, field technicians, and technology partners to ensure a smooth rollout across the entire city.

Question 4

How long will the citywide rollout take?

Accepted Answer

The full citywide AMI meter replacement program is expected to be completed over several years, with neighborhoods being upgraded in phases. You will receive advance notice when your area is scheduled. Visit this site or contact us for the most current schedule information.

Question 5

Is this project funded by rate increases?

Accepted Answer

The AMI project is funded through the City's capital improvement program. While the upgrade represents a significant investment in infrastructure, the operational savings from AMI — including reduced labor costs, fewer truck rolls, and early leak detection — are expected to offset costs over time and help keep rates stable for customers.

Question 6

How will I know when my meter is being replaced?

Accepted Answer

You will receive an advance notice letter by mail before our crews arrive in your neighborhood. The letter will include the scheduled timeframe, what to expect during the replacement, and a contact number if you have questions or concerns. We recommend keeping an eye out for this notice.

Question 7

Do I need to be home when my meter is replaced?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, no. Water meters are typically located at the property line or in an outdoor meter box that our technicians can access without entering your home or business. If interior access is required for your specific property type, we will contact you in advance to schedule a convenient appointment time.

Question 8

How long does the meter replacement take?

Accepted Answer

The replacement typically takes less than 30 minutes per property. During this time, there will be a brief interruption to your water service while the old meter is removed and the new smart meter is installed and tested. We will restore your water service before leaving.

Question 9

Will the new meter look different from my current one?

Accepted Answer

The new AMI meter is similar in size to your current meter but includes a wireless communication module that transmits usage data to our network. The meter box and location will remain the same. You may notice a small antenna or communication device attached to the meter.

Question 10

What if I have a private well or irrigation meter?

Accepted Answer

The AMI upgrade applies to all City of St. Petersburg water meters, including irrigation meters billed by the City. If you have a private well that is not connected to the City water system, that well is not affected by this project. Contact us if you have questions about your specific meter configuration.

Question 11

What if I'm not satisfied with the new meter or have a concern after installation?

Accepted Answer

If you have any concerns about your new meter — including questions about the installation, meter accuracy, or any damage that may have occurred — please contact our customer service team at (727) 893-4000 or water@stpete.org. We will investigate and resolve any issues promptly.

Question 12

Will my water bill change because of the AMI upgrade?

Accepted Answer

The AMI upgrade itself does not change your water rates. However, because your meter will now be read accurately every billing cycle, you may notice your bill more precisely reflects your actual usage. If you were previously receiving estimated bills, you may see some adjustment as accurate readings replace estimates.

Question 13

What is an estimated bill and will I still receive them?

Accepted Answer

An estimated bill is issued when a meter cannot be read — for example, due to access issues or equipment problems. With AMI, your meter transmits readings automatically, so estimated bills will be eliminated. Every bill will reflect your actual, measured water usage.

Question 14

How often will my meter be read?

Accepted Answer

AMI meters transmit usage data continuously — typically every hour or more frequently. This data is collected and used to generate your regular monthly bill. The frequent data collection also allows our system to detect unusual usage patterns that may indicate a leak.

Question 15

Will I be able to see my own usage data?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Through our customer portal, you will be able to view detailed usage data — including daily and hourly consumption — so you can track your water use, identify trends, and spot potential issues. Access to the customer portal will be available once AMI is active in your area.

Question 16

What if I think my new meter is reading incorrectly?

Accepted Answer

If you believe your meter is not reading accurately, contact our customer service team. We can review your usage history, compare it to prior periods, and if necessary, schedule a meter test. Meter accuracy is a priority for us, and we will investigate any concerns thoroughly.

Question 17

How does AMI help detect leaks?

Accepted Answer

AMI meters transmit usage data continuously. Our system analyzes this data to identify unusual consumption patterns — such as water flowing at a constant rate for an extended period — that may indicate a leak on your property or in the distribution system. This allows us to alert customers and respond to issues much faster than with traditional meters.

Question 18

What happens if a leak is detected at my property?

Accepted Answer

If our system detects unusual usage patterns that may indicate a leak on your side of the meter, we will notify you promptly — by mail, phone, or through the customer portal. You will have the opportunity to investigate and address the issue before it becomes a larger problem. Early detection can save you money and prevent water damage.

Question 19

Who is responsible for fixing a leak on my property?

Accepted Answer

Leaks on the customer's side of the meter — including pipes, fixtures, and irrigation systems inside your property — are the customer's responsibility to repair. Leaks in the City's distribution system (on the utility's side of the meter) are our responsibility. If you are unsure which side a leak is on, contact us and we can help determine the source.

Question 20

Can AMI detect leaks in the City's water mains?

Accepted Answer

Yes. In addition to detecting leaks at individual properties, AMI data helps our engineers monitor the overall distribution system for anomalies that may indicate main breaks or distribution losses. This system-wide visibility allows us to respond faster to infrastructure issues and reduce water loss across the network.

Question 21

Is my water usage data private?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The City of St. Petersburg takes data privacy seriously. Your usage data is encrypted during transmission and stored securely. It is used solely for billing, system management, and service improvement purposes. We do not sell or share your personal data with third parties.

Question 22

How is the data transmitted from my meter?

Accepted Answer

AMI meters use a secure, encrypted radio frequency (RF) network to transmit usage data to our collection system. The communication is one-way from the meter to our network — the meter does not receive commands or data from outside sources. The RF signals used are low-power and comply with all applicable FCC regulations.

Question 23

Are there any health concerns related to the wireless signals?

Accepted Answer

No. The wireless signals emitted by AMI meters are low-power radio frequency transmissions, similar to those used by many common household devices. The signal levels are well below the safety limits established by the FCC and are not associated with any known health risks. AMI meters have been deployed in millions of homes and businesses across the United States.

Question 24

Who has access to my usage data?

Accepted Answer

Your usage data is accessible to authorized City of St. Petersburg utility staff for billing, operations, and customer service purposes. You will also have access to your own data through the customer portal. Data is not shared with third parties except as required by law or with your explicit consent.

Our installation crews are trained, verified, and easy to identify

About the AMI Project

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