Low-income seniors may apply for Safe, Clean Water property tax exemption

April 15, 2026

A diverse group of five smiling seniors stand outdoors in a park holding a large sign that reads: “Apply between April 15 and June 30, 2026, to save approximately $80 on your property tax bill.” A banner above them says “Safe, Clean Water Low-Income Senior Parcel Tax Exemption.”

Are you 65 years old or older? Do you own your home and live in it as your primary residence? If so, you could qualify to be exempt from paying the Safe, Clean Water property tax.

Valley Water offers an exemption for qualifying low-income seniors from the Safe, Clean Water special property tax, which would save you approximately $80 on your property tax bill.

The 2026 Safe, Clean Water low-income senior property tax exemption application period is open from April 15, 2026, to June 30, 2026. Visit valleywater.org/senior-parcel-tax-exemption to learn more.

Program Criteria for 2026

You could be exempt from the tax if you meet all of the following criteria:

You were born before June 30, 1962.
Your total household income for 2025 was below $75,112. Total household income is the total gross income for every person over 18 years old who lives in the home. It excludes capital gains.
You live in and own the home the tax is assessed on.

Please note that mobile homes in parks and homes that are in an irrevocable trust are not eligible.

Valley Water manages an integrated water resources system that includes the supply of clean, safe water, flood protection and stewardship of streams on behalf of Santa Clara County's 2 million residents. Valley Water effectively manages 10 dams and surface water reservoirs, three water treatment plants, an advanced recycled water purification center, a state-of-the-art water quality laboratory, nearly 285 acres of groundwater recharge ponds and 333 miles of waterways. We provide wholesale water and groundwater management services to local municipalities and private water retailers who deliver drinking water directly to homes and businesses in Santa Clara County.