Moving to Palm Beach Gardens and want utilities live on day one? You are not alone. Between electric, water, trash, internet, and mail, there are a lot of moving parts to line up. This guide walks you through each service, typical timelines and deposits, and local tips so you can settle in smoothly. Let’s dive in.
Electric: Florida Power & Light (FPL)
Start or transfer your FPL service
Most Palm Beach Gardens addresses are served by Florida Power & Light. You can open a new account or transfer existing service online through the FPL website.
- Create or log in to your FPL account and request a start date.
- Provide your ID, service address, move‑in date, and billing info.
- If transferring, request a final reading at your previous address and an initial reading at move‑in.
Timing and deposits
Activation can be same day to a few business days. A field visit may be needed if a meter lock must be removed or a new meter installed. Deposits are credit‑based. If you have limited credit history, you may be asked for a security deposit. A letter of good payment from a prior utility may reduce or waive the deposit when allowed.
Outages and medical needs
FPL prioritizes restoration to critical facilities after storms. If someone in your household uses life‑sustaining medical equipment, notify FPL so your account reflects that need. You can find outage and storm resources through the FPL website.
Water and Sewer
Who serves your address
Many homes in Palm Beach Gardens are served by the City of Palm Beach Gardens Utilities Department. Some neighborhoods fall under Palm Beach County Water Utilities. If you are unsure, contact your HOA or property manager, or check directly with the city or county. Palm Beach County account information is available through Palm Beach County Water Utilities.
Set up your account
- Contact the appropriate utility to open an account and set your start date.
- Have your ID and proof of ownership or tenancy ready, such as your deed or lease.
- Ask for a meter reading on your move‑in day for accurate billing.
Most accounts are established within 1 to 3 business days if your documents are complete. If a meter needs work, allow extra time.
Deposits and irrigation meters
Municipal water and sewer deposits often range from the equivalent of one to two months of an average bill, or a standard flat amount. The exact deposit depends on the utility and your account history. Some homes have separate irrigation meters. Ask about any backflow prevention requirements before opening a separate irrigation account.
Trash, Recycling and Bulk Pickup
Confirm who handles your pickup
The City of Palm Beach Gardens sets solid waste rules and collection schedules, sometimes through a contracted hauler. Some HOAs manage trash and recycling on behalf of residents.
- Ask your HOA or property manager if trash and recycling are included in dues.
- If city‑provided, confirm your pickup days, cart size, and placement rules.
- If a private hauler serves your community, open an account directly with that contractor.
Cart delivery or registration can take up to a week. Bulk pickup often needs advance scheduling, so plan ahead if you are unpacking furniture or have moving debris.
Placement rules and storm debris
Follow local placement times to keep streets clear and avoid violations. After storms, collection procedures may change. Check city alerts for temporary pickup instructions during hurricane cleanups.
Internet, TV and Phone
Check availability and choose a plan
Coverage varies block by block. Use each provider’s availability tool to see what is offered at your address, then pick the plan and install method that fits your timeline.
- Cable and fiber options are commonly available from Xfinity and AT&T Internet, depending on the neighborhood.
- If wired service is limited, consider satellite or fixed wireless options. Availability is address‑specific, and some areas may also be served by emerging providers.
Installation timeline and fees
- Self‑install kits can arrive in 1 to 3 business days and are often same‑day setup once in hand.
- Technician installations typically book 3 to 14 business days out, longer during peak moves or storm recovery.
- Promotional deals can lower upfront costs. Expect potential installation charges and equipment rental fees for modems or routers. Some providers require deposits for new accounts without credit history.
Second‑home and seasonal considerations
If this is a seasonal residence, ask about temporary suspension options. Some owners keep a minimal plan active for security systems and smart home devices while away.
Mail and Address Changes
Forwarding and Hold Mail
Submit your Change of Address online through the USPS website. USPS typically begins forwarding within 7 to 10 business days after processing, with full forwarding in up to 10 to 14 business days. You can schedule your request up to 30 days before your move. For short absences, USPS Hold Mail is available and should be requested at least 24 hours ahead.
Mailbox keys and PO Boxes
Confirm whether your new home uses a cluster mailbox or curbside box. You may need to pick up keys from your HOA, property manager, or local Post Office. If your home delivery will be delayed or you prefer a secure option, consider a PO Box. Rental fees vary by size and location.
Your Move Timeline and Checklist
2 to 4 weeks before move
- Confirm whether water, sewer, irrigation, and trash are billed by the city, the county, the owner, or through your HOA dues.
- Check address availability for internet and TV providers.
- Create your FPL account and request your start date.
- Open your water and sewer account with the city or Palm Beach County Water Utilities.
- Submit your USPS Change of Address. You can set the start date up to 30 days ahead.
- Ask prior utilities for a letter of good payment if you want to reduce possible deposits.
- Contact your HOA or property manager for mailbox details, gate access, and trash rules.
1 week before move
- Confirm your internet install appointment or order a self‑install kit.
- Verify trash and recycling pickup days and cart placement rules.
- If someone in your home depends on electricity for medical equipment, notify FPL through your FPL account.
Day of move
- Take photos of your electric and water meter readings at move‑in and move‑out.
- Ensure technicians have property access for any scheduled installations.
- Place trash and recycling carts at the curb only during approved time windows.
First 1 to 2 weeks after move
- Confirm your first utility bills and mailing address are correct.
- Check that mail forwarding has started and retrieve mailbox or cluster keys if needed.
- If you experience service issues, use the provider’s online tools and have your account number handy.
Quick printable checklist
- Confirm whether water and trash are billed by the city, the county, the owner, or your HOA.
- Create your FPL account and schedule electric service.
- Open your water and sewer account with the city or county utility.
- Set up trash and recycling service and cart delivery as needed.
- Check internet availability and schedule install or order self‑install.
- Submit USPS Change of Address or set up Hold Mail or a PO Box.
- Photograph meter readings at move‑in and move‑out.
- Share your move date and forwarding info with your HOA or landlord.
- Keep your lease, deed, and photo ID ready for account setup.
- If moving during hurricane season, plan for emergency power and secure outdoor items.
Palm Beach Gardens tips
HOA and condo rules
Many gated communities, condos, and villas have rules that affect mailbox access, trash placement, irrigation meters, and whether certain utilities are included in your dues. Check with your HOA or property manager before you open or transfer accounts.
Hurricane season readiness
Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Utilities follow storm recovery plans and prioritize critical facilities. Make a household plan using guidance from FEMA’s hurricane safety resources and the Florida Division of Emergency Management. If electricity is essential for medical needs, notify FPL in advance and keep backup options on hand.
Meter access and property requirements
Keep the path to your electric and water meters clear for safe readings and maintenance. If your property has a backflow device or separate irrigation meter, ask about testing and compliance before scheduling service.
Need local help lining it all up?
If you want a smooth landing in Palm Beach Gardens, you do not have to go it alone. Our team helps relocators, move‑up families, and seniors coordinate the details that make move‑in day easier. For neighborhood insights, timelines, and a step‑by‑step plan tailored to your address, connect with The Homeseeker Group. We are here to help you get settled with confidence.
FAQs
How do I start electric service with FPL in Palm Beach Gardens?
- Visit the FPL website, create an account, choose your start date, and provide your ID, service address, and billing details. Transfers can include a final and initial meter reading.
What water utility serves my Palm Beach Gardens address?
- Many homes use the City of Palm Beach Gardens Utilities Department. Some areas are served by Palm Beach County Water Utilities. Check with your HOA, property manager, or the city or county to confirm.
How long does USPS mail forwarding take after I move?
- After you submit your Change of Address at the USPS website, forwarding typically begins within 7 to 10 business days, with full forwarding in up to 10 to 14 business days.
What internet providers are common in Palm Beach Gardens?
- Availability varies by neighborhood. Many addresses are served by Xfinity or AT&T Internet. Confirm service at your specific address and schedule install or a self‑install kit.
Will I need to pay deposits for utilities?
- Possibly. Electric deposits are often credit‑based. Municipal water deposits are commonly equal to one to two months of an average bill or a standard flat fee. A letter of good payment from prior utilities can sometimes reduce or waive deposits.
What should seasonal residents do about utilities?
- Consider placing mail on Hold or forwarding it, asking your internet provider about vacation suspension, and confirming whether electric and water can be temporarily deactivated and reactivated without extra field charges.
