Treatment Plant Tours

Austin Water offers guided tours of our water and wastewater treatment plants for anyone over 18. These tours are an exclusive opportunity to see the inner workings of the treatment process, including how Austin Water delivers drinking water of the highest quality to our community and protects the environment by safely returning treated wastewater to the Colorado River.

Our industrial facilities are in continuous operations, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so we offer the tours on scheduled days and times to maintain reliable service. Advance registration is required to attend a tour. In addition, tour participants must follow security and safety protocols for everyone’s safety. 

2025-2026 Tour Schedule

If you're interested in attending one of the above tours, please submit an inquiry using the form below:

 Facilities Tour Request Form

How do I need to prepare for a treatment plant tour?

Austin Water treatment plants are working industrial facilities that cover large areas outside that involve a lot of walking. The facilities contain large equipment, treatment chemicals, and can be quite noisy. The plants are not ADA compliant, and steps and stairs are required to access some portions of the facility. Closed-toe shoes are required for the tour and hats and/or sunscreen are recommended.

You will also need to present valid ID at our security gate to join the tour.

Will I be able to take pictures?

Some parts of the plant cannot be photographed for security reasons. But there will be photo ops and your guide will let you know if anything is off limits.

How many people can go on each tour?

We can accommodate up to 25 people per tour.  Tour groups may consist of mixed parties (students, City staff, external industry leaders, etc.)

How much do tours cost?

All tours are free!

How do I sign up for a tour?

Check out our scheduled tours on this page. Tours are scheduled on the first Wednesday of each month, from 8:30AM until 10:00AM. Select the date and plant that you’re interested in and submit a tour inquiry form no less than one week in advance. You must also acknowledge our Safety Terms and Conditions when you sign up.

When will I get confirmation that I’m signed up?

Once we receive and review your form, we’ll send an email confirming your spot on the tour as well as the tour date and time. The email will include the facility address, time of arrival, parking instructions, and safety guidelines. There will also be a form that will need to be signed and returned before visiting our plant.