The Paso Robles Area Groundwater Authority (PRAGA) is implementing a groundwater fee under California Water Code Section 10730 to fund groundwater management activities, including its Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027) in the Paso Robles Subbasin in compliance with the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA).

The fee is based on consumed (i.e. “net”) groundwater use for Water Year 2025 (October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025) and will be calculated by dividing the approved FY 2026-2027 budget amount ($1,095,446) by Water Year 2025 consumed groundwater use in the basin, which is detailed in the draft fee report released on May 7, 2026 and linked below.

Draft Paso Robles Area Groundwater Authority Rate & Fee Study (May 2026)

Review Your Parcel Data

PRAGA is providing a 20-day public review period for Water Year 2025 consumed water use data, along with an appeals process to address any inaccuracies in the consumed groundwater use calculations. You are encouraged to review your parcel data and submit an appeal, if applicable, by June 8, 2026. On May 27, 2026, the PRAGA Board will hold a public meeting to consider adoption of a resolution to establish the fee and authorize placement of charges on the County tax roll.

Water Year 2025 Use and Fee Summary by Parcel - pdfWater Year 2025 Use and Fee Summary by Parcel - excel

 Appeals Process

If you believe there is an inaccuracy with the consumed water use data, you may submit an appeal using the Groundwater Fee Appeal Form, and any supporting documentation by June 8, 2026.

FY 2026-2027 Groundwater Fee Appeal Form

Please note that successful appeals will require evidence-based documentation. Staff will review and determine valid appeals and make appropriate adjustments.