Moving to Lincolnton and want your lights, water, and internet ready on day one? Getting utilities set up can feel confusing if you are not sure whether your address is in the city or the county. You deserve a smooth start with clear steps and local contacts you can trust. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, who to call, what to bring, and when to schedule so you avoid delays and extra fees. Let’s dive in.

Start here: City limits or county service

Knowing whether your home is inside Lincolnton city limits or in unincorporated Lincoln County determines who provides water, sewer, trash, and sometimes electricity. If you are unsure, call City Utility Billing at 704-736-8980 or check the City’s utility page to confirm your address status and next steps. You can also contact Lincoln County Public Utilities for county addresses.

• City resource: City of Lincolnton Utility Bill Payments

Gather your documents

Before you call, collect the basics. This speeds up applications and avoids repeat trips.

• Government-issued photo ID
• Lease agreement or Closing Disclosure
• SSN or TIN for identity and credit evaluation (disclosure may be voluntary, but not providing it can lead to higher deposits)
• Payment method for deposits and fees
• For rural properties: details on septic and well status

Reference: The City’s Residential Utility Service Application outlines typical requirements. View the application. For septic and wells, see Lincoln County Environmental Health.

Set up utilities in this order

Following this sequence helps you avoid scheduling conflicts and return visits.

1) Water and sewer

• City customers: Open your account through Utility Billing. Outstanding balances must be paid before new service is connected. Start service through the City’s portal or in person. City Utility Billing
• County customers: Apply with Lincoln County Public Utilities. New water service installations are typically about ten working days after your application and fees are submitted. Plan ahead if you are moving soon. County Residential Customers Q&A
• Safety reminder: Do not tamper with meters or try to turn water on yourself. See City billing and service rules for details. City billing policies

2) Electricity

• Inside city limits: The City of Lincolnton operates the electric distribution system. Call the Public Service Center at 704-736-8940 for service and outage questions; after-hours number is 704-735-8202. City Electric Distribution
• Outside city limits: Service is provided by regional utilities depending on your address. Confirm your provider with the seller, landlord, or county utilities office.

3) Natural gas

• Piedmont Natural Gas serves the area. Schedule start service only after your water and electricity are active at the property since technicians require those services on during the visit. Piedmont Natural Gas start, stop, move

4) Trash and recycling

• Inside city limits: Lincolnton provides weekly collection and requires a city-issued 96-gallon roll-out bin. As of 2024, non-city bins are not serviced. The posted bin price is $80, payable through Utility Billing. Confirm your pickup day when you order. City Household Waste

5) Internet and phone

• Availability varies by exact address. Popular options include cable, fiber where available, 5G fixed wireless, and satellite for rural areas. Check availability, choose a plan, and schedule installation or request a self-install kit. Allow extra time if a technician visit is required. You can review area options on the FCC-sourced overview for Lincolnton. See internet availability summary

6) Rural extras: Propane, septic, and wells

• Many rural homes use private propane and onsite septic and well systems. Coordinate propane tank setup or transfer directly with a local supplier. For any septic or well inspections, repairs, or permits, contact Lincoln County Environmental Health. Septic and well information

Fees, timelines, and billing reminders

• City billing cycle: City utility bills are due on the 20th of each month. Late fee is $25 or 5 percent of the bill, whichever is greater. Accounts unpaid by 5 pm on the 27th may be disconnected. Default fee is $50; after-hours reconnection adds $75. City billing policies
• Deposits: A deposit may be required, especially for renters or when SSN/TIN is not provided for credit evaluation. Confirm current amounts with Utility Billing. City Utility Billing
• County water installations: Plan for about ten working days after application and fee payment. County Residential Customers Q&A
• City trash bin: City-issued 96-gallon bin required for pickup inside city limits; posted price $80. City Household Waste

Quick troubleshooting tips

• Outages or service issues: For City electric or water, call the Public Service Center at 704-736-8940; after hours 704-735-8202.
• Scheduling gas: Do not book Piedmont Natural Gas until water and electricity are active to avoid a reschedule.
• Internet installs: Technician windows can range from a few days to two weeks; schedule early if you need service by move-in.
• Never tamper with meters: Utilities will not service addresses where meters have been tampered with. City billing policies

If you want a simple move-in checklist and local guidance for Lincolnton or nearby communities, reach out to Cat McCrary. I am here to help you settle in with confidence.

FAQs

How do I confirm if my Lincolnton address is in city limits?

• Call City Utility Billing at 704-736-8980 or ask Lincoln County Public Utilities; your location determines who provides water, sewer, trash, and sometimes electric.

What documents do I need to open a City utility account?

• Bring a photo ID, your lease or Closing Disclosure, and a payment method for any deposits or fees; SSN or TIN may be requested for credit evaluation.

How long does county water service take to set up?

• Lincoln County Public Utilities typically needs about ten working days after you submit the application and pay fees; plan ahead for move-in.

When are City of Lincolnton utility bills due, and what are the late fees?

• Bills are due on the 20th each month; late fee is $25 or 5 percent of the bill, whichever is greater. Accounts unpaid by 5 pm on the 27th may be disconnected.

Who handles electricity inside Lincolnton city limits, and who do I call for outages?

• The City of Lincolnton operates electric service. Call the Public Service Center at 704-736-8940; after hours call 704-735-8202.

Do I need a specific trash bin for pickup inside the city?

• Yes. Lincolnton requires a city-issued 96-gallon roll-out bin for curbside collection; non-city bins are not serviced.

Can I turn the water on at the meter myself?

• No. Do not tamper with meters. Contact the City or County utility to start or stop service properly.