Just closed on a home in Inlet Beach and need the lights, water, and Wi‑Fi on fast? You’re not alone. Between beach days, guest check-ins, and storm season, getting utilities set up the right way can save you time, money, and headaches. In this guide, you’ll get a clear, step-by-step plan for water and sewer first, then electricity, trash and recycling, propane or gas, and internet. You’ll also learn how to handle septic vs central sewer and what to do if you own a vacation rental. Let’s dive in.
First, confirm your utility providers
Before you call anyone, confirm who serves your exact address. Utility boundaries in South Walton can change street by street. Private communities and short-term rental buildings may also handle some utilities through an HOA or management company.
- Check your closing documents for utility details tied to the parcel.
- Look up your parcel on Walton County’s GIS or property search to see service area footprints.
- Call Walton County Public Works or Utilities if anything is unclear.
- If you’re renting, review your lease and check with your property manager or HOA.
Many homes in Inlet Beach are served by a regional water and sewer operator. Service areas can evolve, so always confirm the provider for your parcel before you request service.
Start water and sewer service
Getting water and sewer set up early helps you avoid move-in delays and ensures accurate billing from day one.
Gather what you’ll need
Have these items handy when you call or complete an online request:
- Service address and parcel ID.
- Government-issued ID and basic identity info.
- Proof of ownership or occupancy, such as a deed, closing statement, or lease.
- Move-in date and contact info.
- Billing preference: autopay, paperless, or mailing address for statements.
Find the correct water/sewer utility
Confirm your provider through the county property map or by calling Walton County Public Works/Utilities. If the home is in a private community, check with your HOA or property manager in case utilities are billed through them.
Open your account and schedule service
- Request new service by phone or through the provider’s customer portal.
- Provide your address, move-in date, and documents. Ask for your account number and a confirmation.
- Ask about connection or establishment fees and whether a security deposit is required. Some utilities adjust deposits based on credit or prior utility history.
- Confirm your activation date and whether a meter read or onsite visit is needed.
Activation timelines and fees
Standard activations are often same day to a few business days. If a meter change, inspection, or repair is needed, plan for additional time. Confirm estimated timing when you submit your request.
Owners vs tenants
Policies vary. Some operators allow tenants to open accounts directly with owner authorization. Others keep accounts in the owner’s name but bill tenants. Ask what documentation is required for your situation.
Sewer or septic at your address
Not every property in coastal Walton County is on central sewer. Some homes use septic systems. Knowing which you have informs who you call and how you maintain the system.
How to confirm your connection type
- Review your closing documents or property disclosures.
- Ask your property manager or HOA for confirmation.
- If uncertain, contact Walton County or the water/sewer operator for your parcel.
If you’re on septic
- The Florida Department of Health in Walton County oversees septic permitting and inspections.
- Schedule routine pumping per your contractor’s guidance and avoid flushing wipes, grease, and harsh chemicals.
- If you experience backups or drain field issues, call a licensed septic contractor and notify county environmental health for next steps.
If you’re on central sewer
- Your sewer operator will handle billing, maintenance, and emergency response.
- For backups that are not internal plumbing issues, report problems to the sewer operator’s emergency line.
- If your community is slated for future sewer connection, confirm timing, fees, and responsibilities for conversion.
Electricity: getting the lights on
Most addresses in Walton County are served by a major electric utility or a regional cooperative. Service areas depend on the parcel, so confirm when you set up water and sewer.
- Open your electric account with your move-in date.
- Ask about deposits, credit checks, and any setup fees.
- Save the outage reporting number and bookmark the outage map on your phone for storm season.
- If you use a home generator, follow manufacturer safety guidance and local codes.
Gas and propane: what to know
Natural gas is not universal along the coast. Many homes in Inlet Beach rely on propane for cooking, heat, pool/spa heaters, and outdoor kitchens.
- If the home has natural gas, contact the local gas utility to start service.
- For propane, you’ll set up service with a private propane provider. New tanks, swaps, or underground installs may require inspections and permits.
- If you inherit a leased tank, ask about the supplier, account transfer steps, and delivery schedule.
Trash and recycling in unincorporated Walton County
Trash and recycling are typically managed through the county or contracted haulers. Schedules, cart sizes, and holiday changes vary by service area.
- Confirm your pickup days and where to place carts.
- Ask about recycling options, bulk pickup, and yard debris guidelines.
- If your home operates as a vacation rental, review turnover-day procedures and any extra pickup services to prevent overflow during peak weeks.
Internet, TV, and phone
Availability is address-specific. Along 30A, major providers commonly include cable or fiber options depending on the street and building.
- Check availability for your exact address before move-in.
- If you own a rental, plan installation and Wi‑Fi management ahead of guest arrivals.
- Review HOA rules for exterior equipment and low‑voltage runs.
- Place the router centrally and label the network for easy guest access.
Storm-season prep for utilities
A little preparation goes a long way along the Gulf.
- Save emergency numbers for water/sewer, electric, propane, and internet providers.
- Sign up for local alerts to receive boil-water advisories or outage updates.
- Locate your main water shutoff and test it.
- Keep a small kit with flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and a portable phone charger.
- After a storm, follow official guidance on power restoration and water quality.
Quick moving checklist for Inlet Beach utilities
Use this simple checklist to stay on track.
- Verify your providers by parcel address.
- Gather ID, proof of ownership or lease, and move-in date.
- Open water and sewer first; confirm activation date and deposit details.
- Start electricity; save the outage number and map.
- Decide on propane or natural gas service and schedule any inspections.
- Set up trash, recycling, and bulk pickup rules.
- Choose internet and TV; schedule install before arrival.
- If on septic, schedule routine service and note the contractor.
- Save all emergency contacts and enroll in service alerts.
Avoid common pitfalls
- Surprise deposits. Ask about credit-based deposit options and refunds.
- Owner authorization. Tenants may need a signed authorization or lease to open accounts.
- Meter access. Make sure meters and shutoffs are reachable and not covered by landscaping.
- Seasonal holds. For second homes, ask about vacation holds or minimum billing policies.
- Irrigation and backflow. If you have irrigation, confirm any backflow testing requirements.
When to call the county or health department
- Septic failures, sewage odors, or drain field issues. Contact a licensed septic contractor and notify the county health department for guidance.
- Boil-water advisories or water quality notices. Follow instructions from your water operator and local health officials.
- Storm debris removal and special pickups. Confirm procedures with the county’s solid waste team.
Ready to settle in?
Whether your home is a primary residence, a seasonal retreat, or a high-performing rental, a smooth utility setup protects your time and investment. If you need a local perspective on neighborhoods, rental dynamics, or service considerations before you buy your next 30A property, connect with the team at 850 Properties. We’re here to help you make confident decisions and enjoy the coast.
FAQs
How do I find the right water provider for an Inlet Beach address?
- Check your parcel on the county’s property map, call Walton County Public Works/Utilities, and review your closing documents or HOA details. Confirm directly with the utility before move-in.
Can tenants open water and sewer accounts in Walton County?
- Policies vary by operator. Some allow tenants with owner authorization; others keep accounts in the owner’s name. Ask what documentation is required for your property.
What if my home uses a septic system instead of central sewer?
- Work with a licensed septic contractor for maintenance and contact the county health department for permitting and advisories. Do not flush wipes or grease.
How fast can utilities be activated after I request service?
- Standard activations often take same day to a few business days. If meter work or inspections are needed, expect longer. Ask for an estimated activation date when you open the account.
How should vacation-rental owners handle trash and Wi‑Fi?
- Confirm extra pickup options for turnover days, post clear house rules, and plan internet installation and network access before guest arrivals. Check HOA rules for equipment and signage.
