FL H1607

Prohibits municipalities located in counties with populations exceeding 1.5 million (based on the most recent U.S. Decennial Census) from imposing any surcharges on consumers outside municipal boundaries for water or sewer services.

Municipalities in other counties may continue to charge consumers outside boundaries using one of two methods: either the same rates as in-city consumers plus a surcharge of up to 25 percent, or rates based on equitable factors with a surcharge not exceeding 25 percent (capped at 50 percent total above in-city rates).

Clarifies that surcharges under the first method (same rates plus 25 percent) do not require a public hearing, while surcharges under the second method require a public hearing with notice to all water/sewer system users and interested parties.

Authorizes civil actions for preventive relief by aggrieved persons, with courts able to award treble damages and reasonable attorney's fees to the prevailing party.

Applies to municipally owned water and sewer utilities within a single county, and may apply across county lines pursuant to interlocal agreement.