A tax on excess water consumption has recently been instituted.  This tax, which involves a fee for households with a high level of water usage, was ratified by the Knesset as part of the Arrangements Law for 2009.  This tax is for a limited period starting 15.7.09 until 31.12.2010.  This government decision requires municipalities to collect the tax as part of the water bill and to then transfer it to the government.  The municipalities cannot change this decision and are obligated to execute it.

The calculation of this tax is according to the number of persons living in the house, even if they are not related to each other, on condition that all the tenants are registered as residents living at that property.  Pursuant to the provisions of the law, the tax will be charged as part of the periodic water bill and all regulations that apply to the water bill will be applicable to the tax, including the date of payment and the payments made by standing order.

In the coming days, Raanana residents will be sent a form called “Update of the Water Consumer’s Details”, to be completed by the residents in full, with the attachment of a photocopy of the identification card’s separate document appendix slips with the details of all those living at the property who are over 18 years old.  As for those children below the age of 18, the identification card’s separate document appendix slip of the parents in which the children’s details appear should be attached to the form.

Foreign residents and foreign workers are asked to send in a photocopy of their passport, a visa for there lawful stay in Israel and a declaration regarding their place of residence.  In lieu of a declaration regarding their place of residence, the separate document appendix slip in the employer’s identification card may be sent.

Residents with a medical disability (according to one of the statutes) are asked to present an authorization from the national insurance or from the institution that pays their benefit, and to present authorization from a doctor indicating the need to use water as part of their treatment.

The completed forms should be returned to the Raanana Municipality by 31.10.09.  It should be emphasized that pursuant to the provision of the law, in the event that the form is not sent, the tax will be calculated according to one person per property.

Residents interested in additional information are invited to contact the Water Authority’s website:  www.water.gov.il.