Big move on the horizon in Kingsport? Between boxes and keys, the last thing you want is a dark house or missed trash day. You deserve a smooth start with clear steps, local contacts, and timelines that work. This guide walks you through setting up utilities, internet, mail, and civic to‑dos so you can settle in with confidence. Let’s dive in.

Utility setup in Kingsport

Water and sewer

• Start residential water service with the City of Kingsport Customer Service Center. The city notes setup can take up to 5 business days after you submit required documents. Use the online application and follow the instructions on the city site.
• Phone: 423-343-9860
• Get started: City of Kingsport water service application
• Helpful resource: Review the city’s annual Water Quality Report.

Electric

• Most city addresses are served by Appalachian Power/AEP. You can start, stop, or transfer service online. New customers may be asked for a deposit or letter of credit.
• Have your service address, start date, and ID ready.
• Get started: Appalachian Power start/stop/transfer

Natural gas

• Atmos Energy serves many homes in the region. Start service online. Atmos uses identity and credit checks to determine if a deposit is required.
• Gas emergency: leave immediately, call 911, then Atmos 24‑hour line 866-322-8667.
• Get started: Atmos Energy start service

Garbage, recycling, yard waste

• The City of Kingsport provides curbside garbage and yard‑waste collection for in‑city residents. Place carts at the curb by 7:00 AM on collection day. Yard waste runs on a two‑week schedule.
• Some bulky items may require a special pickup or fee. No contractor‑generated waste.
• Look up your address and rules: Kingsport sanitation services

Deposit expectations

• Electric and gas providers commonly require a deposit based on your credit or prior utility history. You may be able to use a letter of credit or guarantor. Ask about refund timing when you enroll.

Internet, TV, and phone

Providers and timing

• Spectrum and Brightspeed serve many Kingsport addresses. Availability and speeds vary by street, and fiber installs can take longer. Schedule service 1 to 3 weeks ahead if a technician visit is needed.
• Check availability and book installs: Spectrum Kingsport availability

Satellite and 5G options

• If wired options are limited, satellite and 5G home internet may work. Coverage varies by location. See an overview of local options: Kingsport internet provider guide

Pro tip on switching

• Keep your current internet active until your new service is installed and working to avoid downtime or porting issues.

Postal and address updates

USPS change of address

• File your USPS Change of Address online at usps.com/move or in person at a local post office. The online process includes a small identity‑verification fee.
• Details on the official process and fee: USPS guidance

Driver license and vehicle registration

• Tennessee requires you to update your address with Driver Services within 10 days. You can update online or visit a center if you want a replacement card.
• Start here: Tennessee Driver Services address change

Voter registration

• Update your voter registration when you move within Sullivan County or re‑register if you moved counties. Deadlines apply before elections.
• Learn how: How to update your voter registration in Tennessee

Pets and local animal services

• For local shelter and animal control, contact Petworks Animal Services. The city also provides leash and nuisance guidance.
• Learn more: Petworks Animal Services

Call 811 before you dig

• Planning a fence, mailbox, or deck? Call 811 at least 3 business days before any digging so underground utilities can be marked.
• About Tennessee One Call: Call before you dig

Your moving timeline checklist

3+ weeks before move

• Check internet options and schedule installation if a technician is required.
• Confirm any permits or outside construction needed for fiber installs.

1–2 weeks before move

• Start or transfer electric with Appalachian Power and gas with Atmos.
• Apply for Kingsport water service. City setup can take up to 5 business days after document verification.
• Ask about deposits and what documents you need.

3–7 days before move

• File USPS Change of Address and update banks, insurance, and healthcare providers.
• Schedule stop or transfer dates for utilities. Confirm if final meter reads are required.

Moving day

• Ensure meters are accessible for readings. Consider snapping photos of electric, gas, and water meters at move‑out and move‑in.
• Place trash in city carts only. For bulky items, check city rules or schedule special pickup.

Safety and service tips

Emergencies

• Gas smell: leave the area, call 911, then Atmos 24‑hour line 866-322-8667.
• Downed or sparking power lines: call 911, then contact your electric provider.
• City non‑emergency dispatch: 423-246-9111.

Bulky and hazardous items

• Do not set hazardous materials at the curb. Review city guidance for proper disposal and special pickup needs on the sanitation page above.

Payment and assistance

• Most providers offer online accounts and paperless billing to simplify payments. If you need help, ask your utility about payment plans or assistance programs.

Settling into a new home should feel exciting, not overwhelming. If you want a local game plan for utilities, services, and a smooth move in Kingsport, reach out to Kimberly Leonard for friendly, step‑by‑step guidance.

FAQs

How long does it take to start Kingsport utilities?

• City water setup can take up to 5 business days after documents are verified; electric and gas can often be scheduled quickly but may require a deposit or technician.

Who picks up my trash in Kingsport city limits?

• The City of Kingsport handles curbside garbage and yard waste; place carts out by 7:00 AM and use the city site to confirm your schedule and rules.

Do utility companies require deposits in Kingsport?

• Often yes; Appalachian Power and Atmos determine deposits based on credit or utility history and will explain refund timing when you enroll.

How do I change my address for my Tennessee license?

• Update your address with Tennessee Driver Services within 10 days of moving, either online or in person if you want a replacement card.

Who do I call before installing a fence or mailbox?

• Call 811 at least 3 business days before digging so utilities can locate and mark underground lines at your address.