New to Hercules? Utility Setup Made Simple

Moving day moves fast, and nothing slows you down like lights, water, or internet that are not ready. If you are new to Hercules, you want a simple plan that gets every essential service set up on time. This guide walks you through each utility, what to do first, timelines, typical fees, and where to get help if you need it. Let’s dive in.

Who provides utilities in Hercules

• Water: East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD). Start or stop service online or by phone. EBMUD start service
• Electricity and natural gas: Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E). Use the Start, Stop, Transfer portal. PG&E start or transfer
• Sewer: City of Hercules; wastewater is treated at the joint Pinole–Hercules plant. Hercules sewer rates and info
• Trash, recycling, organics: Republic Services is the City’s franchised hauler; RecycleMore provides sorting and regional guidance. Republic Services Hercules | RecycleMore guidance
• Internet/phone/TV: AT&T and Xfinity serve most addresses. Availability varies by street, so run an address check and schedule install early.

Set up power and gas

Start PG&E service

• Create or log in to your PG&E account and choose a start date up to 60 days out. Same‑day activation is often possible if the meter is accessible. Start or transfer with PG&E
• Have ID ready. PG&E may verify your identity with your SSN or an alternative ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Why PG&E asks for ID
• Timing tip: Give a few days’ notice when possible. After your account is active, review eligibility for CARE or FERA discounts and the Medical Baseline program.

Turn on water with EBMUD

• Start service online or by phone. The online setup typically carries a lower account fee of $60 compared with $76 by phone, which appears on your first bill. EBMUD start service and fees
• Most residential customers are billed every two months. Keep your start date, service address, and ID handy.
• Landlords: Ask EBMUD about Intervening Water Service to keep water on between tenants.

Sewer service basics

• The City of Hercules manages sewer service and charges, while wastewater treatment runs through the Pinole–Hercules plant. Review current rates and any planned changes on the City site. Hercules sewer info
• For maintenance concerns or overflows, follow City instructions for reporting issues.

Trash, recycling, and organics

• Contact Republic Services to start curbside collection, choose cart sizes, and confirm your pickup day. The City requires active curbside service at each residence. Set up with Republic Services
• Use RecycleMore’s local guides to sort correctly and see organics rules. What goes where with RecycleMore
• Need bulky item pickup? Schedule an on‑call service through Republic. For household hazardous waste, check City notices for West County HHW facility details and proof‑of‑residency requirements.

Internet, phone, and TV

• Check availability with AT&T and Xfinity for your exact address, since technology and speeds vary by street. If wired options are not available, consider fixed wireless, satellite, or cellular home internet.
• Installation windows can book up quickly. Aim to schedule one to two weeks before move‑in.

Documents, fees, and timing

• Identification: Expect to verify your identity when you open accounts. PG&E may request an SSN or alternative ID.
• EBMUD fees: Account setup is typically $60 online or $76 by phone, billed on your first statement. EBMUD fees and start
• PG&E deposits and fees: Policies can vary by account history and service type. Review current terms when you start service. PG&E start or transfer
• Republic Services: Monthly charges depend on cart size and service level. Ask about organics and recycling options. Republic Services Hercules
• Timelines: Many services can start the same day if no onsite work is needed. If meter work, solar, or new construction is involved, allow extra time and coordinate by phone.

Financial assistance and discounts

• PG&E CARE/FERA: Income‑qualified customers can receive monthly bill discounts on electric and gas service. PG&E CARE/FERA
• EBMUD Customer Assistance Program: Qualifying households can receive a reduction on bimonthly water charges. EBMUD assistance options
• LIHEAP (Contra Costa County): The County administers energy assistance and weatherization. Funding and eligibility vary, so apply early. County energy assistance
• Other support: Ask PG&E about Medical Baseline if you rely on qualifying medical equipment. For phone service, California Lifeline may reduce monthly charges for eligible households.

Landlords and tenants

• Master‑metered or sub‑metered buildings: Tenants have specific billing protections. Review PG&E’s guidance for sub‑metered tenants and landlords. PG&E sub‑metered guidance
• Water between tenancies: EBMUD offers a landlord Intervening Water Service option to prevent shutoffs when tenants move. Confirm terms and processing fees directly with EBMUD. EBMUD customer information
• Best practice: Clarify in your lease who pays each utility. Renters should set up their own accounts as early as possible to avoid gaps in service.

Move‑in utility checklist

• Before moving day
  • Start PG&E and choose your activation date; have ID ready. PG&E start or transfer
  • Set up EBMUD water online and note the account fee. EBMUD start service
  • Contact Republic Services for carts, pickup day, and any bulky item needs. Republic Services Hercules
  • Check internet availability and schedule installation.
• On moving day
  • Ensure meters are accessible and photograph initial meter readings for your records.
  • Keep confirmations and receipts for any setup fees.
• After moving in
  • Enroll in paperless billing and alerts for each utility.
  • Apply for CARE/FERA, EBMUD CAP, or LIHEAP if you qualify.

Need local help getting settled?

If you are relocating to Hercules or anywhere in the East Bay, you deserve a smooth transition. From utility checklists to neighborhood insight, we help you make smart, timely decisions so you can enjoy your new home faster. Reach out to the Estela Sallat & Michael Perry Team for calm, concierge‑level guidance tailored to your move.

FAQs

Which utilities should I set up first in Hercules?

• Start PG&E for electricity and gas, then EBMUD for water, followed by Republic Services for trash and recycling; schedule internet installation next.

How long does activation usually take in Hercules?

• Many services can start the same day if no onsite work is needed; allow a few days for scheduling, and plan extra time for new construction, solar, or meter work.

Are there deposits or startup fees for utilities in Hercules?

• EBMUD charges an account setup fee that appears on your first bill, and PG&E policies can vary by account; confirm current terms when you enroll, and ask Republic Services about cart-based pricing.

How do I dispose of hazardous household waste in Hercules?

• Use the West County HHW facility serving Hercules and check City notices for accepted items, schedules, and proof‑of‑residency rules.

What if my rental is master‑metered in Hercules?

• Review PG&E’s sub‑metered tenant protections and confirm in your lease who pays each utility; you may be able to have service in your name depending on the setup.