HomeMy Public PortalAboutExhibit HBA 124 - Motion of Intervener Home Builders Association Supporting EvidenceExhibit HBA 124
Wastewater and Stormwater Rate Change Proceeding — 2015
First Discovery Request of Intervenors Home Builder Association
of St. Louis & Eastern Missouri
BEFORE THE RATE COMMISSION OF THE
METROPOLITAN ST. LOUIS SEWER DISTRICT
For Consideration of a Wastewater
And Stormwater Rate Change Proposal
By the Commission of the Metropolitan
St, Louis Sewer District
MOTION OF INTERVENORS HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF ST.
LOUIS & EASTERN MISSOURI FOR LEAVE TO FILE SUPPLEMENTAL
SUPPORTING EVIDENCE
Intervenor Home Builders Association of St. Louis and Eastern Missouri
("HBA") respectfully requests that the Rate Commission of the Metropolitan St. Louis
Sewer District ("Rate Commission") allow the introduction of the attached Affidavit of
Emily Schwartze Post and ancillary documents as supplemental supporting evidence
illustrating alternatives to the Proposed Rate Change regarding the structure of the
proposed stormwater service and funding structure. The grounds for this request are as
follows:
1. The Stormwater Rate Change Proposal submitted by the Metropolitan St.
Louis Sewer District (the "District"), proposes to assess a District -wide SW tax to replace
the current SW O&M Tax and flat rate charges, with the proposed District -wide tax rate
being $0.10 per $100 of assessed property value. See Section 5.4, Proposed Funding
Methods, p. 5-9, MSD Ex. 1.
2. The Rate Change Proposal submitted by the District included a 2014
Stormwater Utility Survey conducted by Black & Veatch which stated that "stormwater
credit serves a key role in enhancing the perception of 'user fees' by affording the
customers opportunities to reduce the magnitude of the user fees commensurate with
[the] extent of onsite stormwater management." See 2014 Stormwater Utility Survey, p.
17, MSD Ex. 84-G. The 2014 Stormwater Utility Survey also indicated that forty-four
percent (44%) of districts surveyed have a stormwater credit program. See Figure 38,
2014 Stormwater Utility Survey, p. 18, MSD Ex. 84-G.
3. Despite the key role stormwater credits serve according to the 2014
Stormwater Utility Survey, Brian Hoelscher testified during the Technical Conference
held on April 8, 2015, that the District had not considered a credit program. See
Transcript of First Technical Conference April 8, 2015, p. 17, MSD Ex. 96.
4. On April 30, 2015, the HBA filed its First Discovery Request directed to
the District in an attempt to solicit additional information regarding the District's
rationale for not considering alternatives to the Proposed Stormwater Rate Change
Proposal, including stormwater credit programs. See First Discovery Request of
Intervenors Home Builders Association. to MSD April 30, 2015, MSD Ex. 100.
5. On May 13, 2015, the District filed its Response to the HBA's First
Discovery Request directed to the District which reiterated the District's position that the
ad valorem property tax included as part of the Proposed Stormwater Rate Change
Proposal is fair and equitable. The District's Response also stated that the District had not
examined a potential credit program and that the District's rate consultant, Raftelis
Financial Consultants (RFC) was unaware of any system funded through property taxes
that utilizes a credit program. See MSD Response to First Discovery Request of
Intervenor HBA, MSD Ex. 100A.
6. The idea that a credit program cannot be introduced in systems funded
through property taxes is a red herring as the fair and equitable requirement applies
irrespective of the funding methodology contemplated. Under the Proposed Stormwater
Rate Change Proposal, the District is effectively proposing a methodology that would
charge some customers twice, once directly through payment of the ad valorem tax itself,
and once indirectly through costs associated with the operation and management of
BMPs. Given that the ultimate purpose of the stormwater tax is to promote water quality
in the St. Louis region, it would appear irrational to reject outright a credit program that
would incentivize rate payers to install improvements that reduce stormwater runoff and
increase the quality of runoff.
6. Recognizing the key role stormwater credit programs serve in enhancing
customer perception and encouraging "green practices" aimed at reducing stormwater
runoff and improving the quality of runoff, the HBA respectfully requests leave to file the
attached Affidavit and documents illustrating the importance and feasibility of
implementing credit -based stormwater programs.
Respectfully submitted,
SmithAmundsen, LLC
By: /s/ John Bradford Goss
John Bradford Goss, #36266
Nicholas L. Burkhart, #65816
120 S. Central Avenue, Suite 700
St. Louis, MO 63105
314.719.3702 — Telephone
314.719.3703 — Facsimile
bgoss@salawus.com
nburkhart@salavvus.com
Dated: June 11, 2015 ATTORNEYS FOR HBA OFST. LOUIS
AND EASTERN MISSO URI
CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE
The undersigned certifies that a copy of the foregoing was sent by electronic
transmission to the following on this 15th day of June, 2015.
Ms. Janice Fenton
Office Associate Senior
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District
2350 Market Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
ifenton@stlmsd.com
Ms. Susan Myers
General Counsel
Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District
2350 Market Street
St. Louis, MO 63103
smvers@stlmsd.com
Mr. John Fox Arnold
Lashly & Baer, P.C.
714 Locust Street
St. Louis, MO 63101
jfarnold{a lashlybaer.com
Ms. Lisa O. Stump
Lashly & Baer, P.C.
714 Locust Street
St. Louis, MO 63101
lostump@lashlybaer.com
Ms. Diana M. Vuylsteke
Mr. Brandon W. Neuschafer
Bryan Cave LLP
211 N. Broadway, Suite 3600
St. Louis, MO 63102
dmvuylsteke@bryancave.com
bwneuschafer(d bryancave.com
AFFIDAVIT OF EMILY SCHWARTZE POST
COMES NOW Emily Schwartze Post and being first duly sworn upon her oath,
deposes and says that if called to testify she could and would state based on personal
knowledge that:
1. I am over the age of twenty -on (21) years of age.
2. I am competent and authorized to make this Affidavit and testify as to the
matters herein,
3. I am the Assistant Staff Vice President for Public Policy for the Home
Builders Association of St. Louis & Eastem Missouri.
4: In addition, 1 serve as the Staff Liaison to the Environmental Affairs
Committee and Staff Liaison to the Utility Relations Committee, as well as Staff Liaison
to the City of St. Louis Board of Trustees and St. Louis County Board of Trustees.
5. As the Assistant Staff Vice President for Public Policy, Staff Liaison to
the Environmental Affairs Committee and Staff Liaison to the Utility Relations
Committee, 1 am responsible for the periodic review and analysis of laws, regulations,
policies, and issues affecting the home building industry in Missouri and throughout the
United States.
6. One of the primary concerns of home builders and developers in recent
years has been the impact of increasingly stringent laws and regulations related to
environmental protection and clean water.
7. As a result these concerns, 1 have performed extensive research on issues
related to stormwater management, including the impact of the Clean Water Act and the
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NP:DES) permit program, and the
effective implementation of Best Management Practices (BMPs).
8. I have also researched numerous stormwater incentive programs that have
been implemented by various local utilities to incentivize customers to take an active role
in reducing stormwater runoff and improving the quality of stormwater rtmof. .
9. Illustrative of the credit programs l have reviewed are those implemented
by Lynchburg, VA, Richmond, VA, Minneapolis, MN, Seattle, WA, Washington, D.C.,
Baltimore, MD, Fernandina, FL
10. From the developer or home builder point of view, credits provide an
incentive to implement better site design practices to help reduce the volume of
stormwater runoff, minimize the pollutant loads from a site, and allow projects to not
only meet, but exceed stormwater and water quality requirements. While it is true that the
application of credits in this context directly translates into cost savings to the developer
thereby encouraging improved site design and improved water quality, it is also true that
utilities receive a secondary benefit through reduced impacts on existing systems.
11. From the individual customer point of view, I would agree with the
findings in the Black & Veatch 2014 Stormwater Utility Survey that "stormwater
credit[s] serves a key role in enhancing the perception of `user fees' by affording the
customers opportunities to reduce the magnitude of the user fees commensurate with
[the] extent of onsite stormwater management." In this context, stormwater credits not
only provide a positive image for the utility, but also encourage individual property
owners to take an active role in reducing the quantity of stormwater runoff and improving
the quality of runoff.
12. By encouraging developers and individual property owners to exceed
current regulations and take an active role in stormwater management, the District is
likely to see several benefits, including: (i) reductions in runoff volume reducing the
amount of runoff requiring treatment; (ii) increases in the quality of runoff allowing the
District to more easily meet water quality standard requirements; (iii) reducing the need
for drainage infrastructure thereby reducing costs; and (iv) potentially increasing tax
revenues by encouraging rain gardens and similar BMPs that often appeal to many home
owners and can increase property values.
FURTHER AFFIANT SAITH NOT.
hume
Emily S e Post f
STATE OF MISSOURI )
ss
COUNTY OF ST. LOUIS )
Now on this 16 day of June, 2015, personally appeared before me Emily Schwartze
Post and executed the foregoing.
My commission expires:
—,�oaki— — —
KRISTEN FULLER r
Notary Public • Notary Seal h.
4, State of Missouri, St Louls County
Commission 91459572E
t My Commission Expires Mar 20.201E
STORMWATER UTILITY
CITY OF FERNANDINA BEACH, FL
1
Purpose
• To fund stormwater related
activities within the City.
• To improve the public health,
safety and welfare by providing for
the safe and efficient capture and
conveyance of stormwater runoff
and the correction of stormwater
problems.
• To encourage and facilitate urban
water resources best management
techniques.
2
PR
Majo r Capital improvements P roj ects
C-2BIC-9 Beech Street from South 9th Street to east of Citrona Street.
$4,190,900.00
• C-3 Fir Street from South 17th Street to the west end.
$4,114,800.00
C-13 Lining and/or sealing the existing drainage system in the downtown area.
$2,741,600.00
0Q4) C-10 First Avenue Area between Sadler Road and Simmons Road.
$1,772,400,00
C-1 North Fletcher Ave (Dolphin to VV. 9th Street)
$928,000.00
• C-6 Fir Street Area between South 5th Street to the west side of the RR tracks.
$910,200.00
C-5 North 15th and Franklin Street
• C-2A South 9th Street Area between Beech Street and Fir Street
3
$836,000.00
$687,200.00
C-7 North Flekher Area between (AteJle St and Kimberly
12-4 N�rili 15,h Sine (North of Leon Street)
C-5 North 151h end Franklin Street
C-I3 Lining andllor :waling the
erlatinz drain:me system.
C-1.131 Freud] Drain — Iflvi,ilou Street at Beech Street
C-11A Frtnrh Drain - 1813 Highland Drive
11French hrRin - ROO Stanley Drive
Fernandina Reich
C-1 North Fletcher Ave (Dolphin to W.9411 Street)
C4 Motu Beach Park Area by Dolphin Street
C-2.11/C-9 Beth Street from South 9th
ruel li. gut or Caroni' Stmt./
C-I9 Rrei Awruue Areic h.Iween Saulter Rd ood
fiimrnan9 Rd
C-2A Sonth 4th Street Area bett.te¢u Beech Street bed Fir Street
C-IC Elm Street Area between Uivklwi Street Ind South 13th Street
C-3 Fir Street from S. ith 1/th Street to the west end
C-11 it French Drain - FItn Street at South 11th Street
C-112 Gum Sircee Ares tour South nth Street
C-6 Fir Si AJ-CA between South 5th
St Wegt wlde of the RR clucks
"
I ) e f i n i r . o n s
I m p e r v i o u s A r e a
A . . s u r f a c e t h a t i s r e s i s t a n t t o
i n f i l t r a t i o n b y w a t e r , i n c l u d i n g
r o o f s , d r i v e w a y s p a r k i n g l o t s ,
s i d e w a l k s , t e n n i s c o u r t s , p o o l
d e c k s a n d c o n c r e t e p a t i o s .
S w i m m i n g p o o l s , w o o d d e c k s a n d
b o a r d w a l k s a r e n o t c o n s i d e r e d
i m p e r v i o u s .
' : ' E q u i v a l e n t R e s i d e n t i a l U n i t s
T h e a m o u n t o f i m p e r v i o u s a r e a
l o c a t e d o n a n a v e r a g e s i n g l e f a m i l y
r e s i d e n t i a l d e v e l o p e d p r o p e r t y
l o c a t e d w i t h i n c i t y l i m i t s .
r
6
. �%r " . �%�%. I
Surnmary of Records
Single Family Residential
4,764 Units
Vacant Lots (Res/Comm/Ind)
1,428 Units
CommLercial/Industrial/Misc
1,051 Units
Multi-Family/Condominiums
1,148 Units
Total Number of Records
8,391*
*(Source: Nassau County Property Appraisers Database)
FRU Calculations
• Average Size of SFR units
Calculated by taking the sum of the total impervious area from single-family
residential units (acquired from Nassau County Property Appraisers Database)
and dividing by the total number units within that land -use designation.
■ 13,265,757 sq. ft. / 4,764 SFR units = 2,785 sq. ft.
• Options
Option 1: The City may choose to have each single family or duplex unit pay
one (1) ERU.
Option 2: Since the impervious areas for single family and duplex units vary
widely in Fernandina Beach; the City may choose to utilize a step
structure ERU, based on the actual size of the home and its
impervious surfaces.
8
ER U Calcuiatiorits
Average size of SFR units = 2,785 sq. ft. (per Property Appraiser)
0.5 x 2,785 sq. ft. = 1,393 sq. ft.
1.5 x 2,785 sq. ft. = 4,178 sq. ft.
ERU Designations
SFRs less than or equal to 1,393 = 0.5 ERU
SFRs greater than 1,393 sq. ft. and less than 4,178 sq. ft. = 1.0 ERU
SFRs greater than or equal to 4,178 = 1.5 ERU
TOTAL Number of ERUs (for SFR)= 4,778 ERU (does not include stormwater pond credits)
+ Tot.al impervious from Commercial/Industrial/Condominium
properties = 5,180,100 sq. ft.
TOTAL Number of ERUs (Commercial/Industrial/Condominium/Misc) =
(5,180,100 sq. ft. / 2,785 sq. ft.) = 1,860 ERU (does not include stormwater pond credits)
9
1
i
FRU Credits
• The City of Fernandina Beach may choose to offer
stormwater utility credits to property owners providing
stormwater related services, including:
Permitted Stormwater Ponds (up to 50%)
• Permitted by a water management agency. (ie. SJRWMD)
Provide copy of permit to the City.
Landlocked Systems (up to 25%)
•' Zero discharge properties. Must provide proof.
NPDES Industrial Permit (2%)
• Provide copy of permit to the City.
Ocean Direct Discharge (up to 25%)
a Ocean discharge properties.
Maximum Credit of 50%.
-PK
MG
10
ERU calculations Stormwater Credits
+Total ERU
Single Family Residential -* 4,778 ERU
Non Residential 4 5,509 ERU
TOTAL = 4,778 ERU + 5,509 ERU =10,287 ERU
..**Total ERU (After Credits -Assumed 50%
Credit)
Single Family Residential 4 4,126 ERU
Non Residential 4 4,770 ERU
TOTAL = 4,126 ERU + 4,770 ERU = 8,896 ERU
NOTE: ERU count does not include Airport, Smurfit,
R.ayonier
L
11
@bTh
i
Single FResidential Example
PID:
00-00-31-1690-0003 -0000
Building Type:
Single Family Residential (100)
Parcel Size:
5,009 sq. ft.
•
Impervious Area:
928 sq. ft. building
*(no additional impervious areas)
Floors: 1
ERU: 0.5
*SOURCE: NASSAU COUNTY PROPERTY APPRAISERS
12
Single Famil[y Residential Example
• • PILE:
00-00-31-143A-0005-0180
+ Building Type:
Single Family Residential (100)
• •• Parcel Size:
12,501 sq. ft.
••• Impervious Area:
2,260 sq. ft. + 1,667 sq. ft. Concrete = 3,927
•
•
sq. ft.
Floors: 1
ER.U: 1.0
13
Single Farnily Residential Example
• PID:
00-00-3 0-02 6 5 -000A-0000
• Building Type:
Single Family Residential (100)
• Parcel Size:
81,805 sq. ft.
4:4 Impervious Area:
(5,201 SF/2 Floors) + 1,881 sq. ft.
Concrete + 5,320 sq. ft. Asphalt =
9,801 sq. ft.
4"4+ Floors: 2
• ERU: 1.5
1
1
1
MultiFami1y Residential Example
•:• PID:
00-00-31-1030-0000-0000
Building Type:
Condominiums
Units:
100 Dwelling Units
•
•• Parcel Size:
231,260 sq. ft.
•
• Impervious Area:
114,396 sq. ft.
(area calculated using ArcGIS)
ERU: 38.97
(38.97 ERU / 100 Dwelling Units)
= .39 ERU per Dwelling Unit
15
��g
Private School Example
+
00-00-3 0-03 6A-0006-003 0
+ Building Type:
PRIVATE SC (007200)
+ Parcel Size:
47,480 sq. ft.
• Impervious Area:
5,542 sq. ft. + 251 sq. ft.
Concrete + 12,585 sq. ft.
Asphalt =18,378 sq. ft.
Stormwater Pond:
None visible
❖ ERU: 6.26
�t
A1S
16
Commercial Example
PID:
00-00-31-1800-0239-0061
+ Building Type:
e:
COMMUNITY (001600)
+ Parcel Size:
68,955 sq. ft.
+ Impervious Area:
18,653 sq. ft. + 8,286 sq. ft.
Concrete + 33,229 sq. ft. Asphalt =
60,156 sq. ft.
Stormwater Pond:
None visible
.4s ERU: 20.50
Commercial Exampie
�* PII):
00-00-3 0-0800-003 8-0000
Building Type:
CO ITY (001600)
•: Parcel Size:
587,624 sq. ft.
Impervious Area:
160,862 sq. ft. + 17,052 sq. ft.
Concrete + 271,918 sq. ft. Asphalt =
449,844 sq. ft.
•
Stormwater Pond:
Yes
ERU: 153.27
(Prior to stormwater pond credit)
18
Stormwater Billing Options
`:* Option 1: Non -Ad Valorem Assessments
Stormwater fee placed on property tax bill
Annual collection of stormwater fees
Secured by tax certificate
•4, Option 2: Utility billing
Stormwater fee placed on water bill
Monthly collection of stormwater fees
Governed by water bill collection policy
19
NonA" Valorem Assessments
*• Non -Ad Valorem Assessments
Advantages
• Fee is applied directly to property
• Strong payment stream
Disadvantages
• Greater legal / technical requirements
• Must plan on up to 4.0% early payment discount
• Earliest revenues available Nov -Dec. 2010
MG
20
-
Non -Ad Valorem Assessments (coned)
Non -Ad Valorem Assessment Process
Notice of intent resolution required
• By January 1 (or March 10 with Tax Collector & Property
Appraiser consent)
■ Does not bind City to implement non -ad valorem assessment
Non -ad valorem assessment roll must be adopted by September 15
Detailed notification to each property 20 days :prior to public hearing
for assessment roll
Appeal process
By September 15: Certification and delivery of assessment roll by
City to tax collector
21
NINEENsol
Utility Biliing
.0. Utility Billing
Advantages
• Uses existing utility billing process
a Monthly revenue stream
▪ Can be initiated with adoption of ordinance
Disadvantages
' Difficulty tying unoccupied properties to water meter accounts.
▪ Possible higher default rate
• Ongoing customer billing/customer service
22
Financial Forecast Overview
+ Five -Year forecast includes Fiscal Years 2010-2014
+••• Analysis includes forecast of:
Customers/ERUs
Operating expenses
Capital improvement requirements/funding
Funding/Rate options
•
Cash needs forecast
PR
�1lti
23
Financial Forecast
Stormwater Operating ]Expenses
Estimated
Stormwater
Fund
Operating
Expenses Current (FY 2009-10) Budget
(FY 2010-11) Allocation
Stcrmwater Engineering $117,000 Currently in Stormwater Budget
Stcrm Drainage Maintenance 258,000 Approx. $225,000 In Gen. Fund
(Streets Dept.)
Street Sweeping 137,000 Currently in Gen. Fund (Streets
Dept.)
Customer Service/Billing 38,000 Currently in Water Dept.
Subtotal — Stormwater Enterprise
Fund Operating Expenses $550,000
Less: Transfer From General Fund 4000000 Reflects Transfer of Costs from
Gen. Fund to Stormwater Fund
Net Operating Expenses to be
Funded from Stormwater Rates $150,000
24
Capital improvement Finding
+� Stormwater Capital Improvements
Prioritization of proj ects
Pay -Go
Debt financing
2
Project Ref.
Capital Project List
Project Description Amount
C-1 North Fletcher Ave (Dolphin to W. 9th Street)
C-2A South 9th Street Area between Beech Street and Fir Street
C-2B/C-9 Beech Street from South 9th Street to east of Citrona Street
C-2C EIm Street Area between Division Street and South 13th Street
C-3 Fir Street from South 17th Street to the west end
G:-4 North 15th Street (North of Leon Street)
C-5 North 15th and Franklin Street (Angie Brewer's Property)
C-6 Fir Street Area between South 5th Street to the west side of the railroad tracks
C-7 North Fletcher Area between Giselle Street and Kimberly Street
C-8 Main Beach Park Area by Dolphin Street
C-10 First Avenue Area between Sadler Road and Simmons Road
C-11 French Drain - 806 Stanley Drive
C-11A French Drain - 1813 Highland Drive
C-11 B French Drain - Division Street at Beech Street
C-1 IC French Drain - 12th Street at Beech Street
C-11 D French Drain - EIm Street at South 11 th Street
C-12 Gum Street Area near South 6th Street
C-13 Lining/Sealing Existing Downtown Area Drainage System
$928,000.00
$687,200.00
$4,190,900.00
$228,600.00
$4,114,800.00
$536,700.00
$836,000.00
$910,200.00
$411,600.00
$69,500.00
$1, 772,400.00
$44,200.00
$88,000.00
$44,200.00
$64,000.00
$70,300.00
$53,300.00
$2,741,600.00
*Amount, Include land acquisition, survey, design, CEI services, and construction estimate.
26
war
TOTAL $17,791,500.00
r=11.111111111i1111111111111
Description
1
O&M Cost*
Pay -Go Capital Funding
Debt Service
Monthly Rate/ERU
Stormwater Rate Options
S1O/MonthRate____
Pay -Go
($10001year)
$550-$600/yr.
$800-$8501yr.
$0
$10.00
Notes:
Estimated Years to Complete $9.0 million in
Construction
Estimated Years Complete All Stormwater
Projects
Principal Amount of Debt Issued
11 years
21 years
$0.0 million
Debt Finance
($10001year)
$550 .$6001yr.
$150k-$200k/yr.
$650k/yr.
$10.00
4 years
22 years
$7.7 million
*Stormwater operating & maintenance costs are projected to be offset by $400,000 per year
transfer from the General Fund.
27
Stormwater Rate Options
Description
Monthly Rate/ERU
O&M Cost*
Pay -Go Capital Funding
Debt Service
Notes:
Pay -Go
($10001year)
$6.00
$550k - $600k1yr.
$425k/yr.
$0
Estimated total projects complete $1.9 million
within 5 years
Estimated Years Complete All 40 years
Stormwater Projects
Principal Amount of Debt Issued $0.0 million
—Target late
Debt Finance
($10001year)
$6.00
$550k -- $600k1yr.
$100k/yr.
$325k/yr.
$4.5 million
40+ years
$4.1 million
*Stormwater operating & maintenance costs are projected to be offset by $400,000 per
year transfer from the General Fund.
28
Stormwater System Ptojected
Revenlue Requirements
$1,200,000
$1,000,000
$800,000
$600,000
$400,000
$200,000
$0
FY 2010
■ O&M
FY 2011
FY 2012 FY 2013 FY 2014
• Debt Service
Note: Annual debt service based on a 20 Year, $4.0
million bank loan issued October 2010. 29
■ Pay -Go Capital
Storrn
Stormwater System Projected Revenue
Requirements Under ProposedRates
Projected Stormwater Revenue plus $400,000/year Transfer from General Fund
$600,000 Proje'cted'Revenue,� "�
$6.00/ERU
$400,000-_..._.e-.
$200,000.W_._
FY 2010 FY 2011 FY 2012 FY2013 FY 2014
Eli 0&M
owl Pay -Go Capital
Note: Annual debt service based on a 20 Year, $4.0
million bank loan issued October 2010.
Debt Service
Stormwater Rate Revenue
$10.00
$9.00
$8.00
$ 7.00
$6.00
$5.00
$4.00
$3.00
$2.00 -
$1,00
$0.00
Residential Stormwater Fee Comparison
1
Proposed City of Fernandina Beach
Atlantic Beach Jacksonville Jacksonville St. Augustine Ormond Beach Daytona W. Palm Key West Palm Coast Proposed
Beach Beach Beach Fernandina
Beach
�%��
C o r n p a r i s o n o f T o n - R e s i d e n t i a l
S t o r m w a t e r F e e s
M o n t h l y R a t e p e r E R U
I m p e r v i o u s S q . F e e t p e r
E R U
C u s t o m e r D e s c r i p t i o n
S m a l l C o m m e r c i a l
M e d i u m C o m m e r c i a l
L a r g e C o m m e r c i a l
P r o p o s e d
F e r n a n d i n a
B e a c h J a c k s o n v i l l e
$ 6 . 0 0 $ 5 . 0 0
I m p e r v i o u s
A r e a ( s q . f t . )
1 8 , 3 7 8 $
6 0 , 1 5 6
4 4 9 , 8 4 4
2 , 7 8 5 3 , 1 0 0
3 9 . 5 9
1 2 9 . 6 0
9 6 9 . 1 4
3 2
J a c k s o n v i l l e
B e a c h P a i n " C o a s t
$ 5 . 0 0 $ 8 . 0 0
1 , 5 4 1 2 , 0 0 0
M o n t h l y S t o r m w a t e r F e e
$ 2 9 . 6 4 $ 5 9 . 6 3
9 7 . 0 3
7 2 5 . 5 5
1 9 5 . 1 8
1 , 4 5 9 . 5 8
7 3 . 5 1
2 4 0 . 6 2
1 , 3 4 9 . 5 3
@ L a
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MARYLAND STORMWATER FEE REDUCTIONS
Baltimore City Customer Guidance Document:
Single Family Property
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I. Overview
In 2012, the Maryland Legislature passed a law mandating that the
10 largest jurisdictions in the state, including Baltimore City, establish
a Maryland stormwater fee. The fee will provide a sustainable,
dedicated revenue source for maintaining, operating, and improving
the City's stormwater management system, with the ultimate goal of
reducing flooding and erosion, and keeping our waterways cleaner.
The City's stormwater fees are based on the amount of impervious
area on a property. Impervious surfaces, like sidewalks and
driveways, block water from infiltrating the ground. They cause
increased runoff, overload the drainage system, and transport
pollutants and nutrients to bodies of water. Maintaining the
stormwater management system and reducing the nutrients and
other pollutants are the primary expenses of the program.
This document is based on the "Rules and Regulations" for
Stormwater Utility which is available on cleanwaterbaltimore.org.
IMPERVIOUS AND PERVIOUS SURFACES
Impervious surfaces (the gray photos) do not allow water to
infiltrate the ground and cause flooding and pollution in our
waterways. Pervious surfaces (in color) allow water to
penetrate the ground which prevents flooding and
contamination of our waterways.
11 le Calculation
Single family properties (SFPs) are charged one of three flat fees, based on the amount of impervious area on the
property.
.it
Impervious area Quarterly tee
s'820 square feet $10.00
Impervious Area quarterly Fee
>820 to 51500
square feet
$15.00
[Pr!
E Pin
Impervious Area Quarterly Fee
>1 500 square feet $ 30.00
Customers who feel they have been placed in the wrong tier should contact the Customer Service and Support
Division at (410)396-5398.
III. Credits Available
Single family property customers are able to reduce their fees through credits. A credit is a reduction in a
stormwater service charge that is granted to a customer for measures that reduce demand upon the City's drainage
system or reduce the City's cost of stormwater management.
1
The purpose of establishing a Maryland Stormwater Fee credit program is to provide a way for ratepayers to reduce
their fees, and an incentive for them to implement stormwater management measures. A credit system aims to
protect water quality, create equity in the payment system, reduce public expenditures on stormwater management,
and promote private sector stormwater management. For details on senior and low income discounts and exemptions
please visit cleanwaterbaltimore.org or call the Customer Support and Services Division at (410) 396-5398.
The following chart is a quick guide to customers' eligibility for credits.
CHART 1: STORMWATER FEE CREDIT OVERVIEW
SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY STOMWATER FEE CREDITS
Public
Participation
Description: Customers can participate in a
public project or event within the City like a
stream clean-up, tree planting, or de -paving.
Eligible events will be advertised on
c leanwaterbaltimore.o rg.
Simple Residential Best
Management Practices
Maximum Credit— For every
8 hours of participation you
can get a credit of $10. The
maximum credit is$30/year.
Description: Customers can utilize residential best management
practices (B M Ps) by installing and maintaining rain gardens,
trees, and rainwater harvesting systems to earn credits.
Renewal — 3 years
Large Rain Garden— Minimum size of 100
el
square fee with minimum drainage area of
1000 square feet.
Maximum Credit— $16/year
Small Rain Carden — Minimum size of 50
square fee with minimum drainage area of
500 square feet.
Maximum Credit— $8/year
Tree Planting —The tree must be one inch or greater in diameter and installed after January
1, 2010. At least two trees must be planted to receive credit.
Maximum Credit— $3/treefyear
Rainwater Harvesting —A rainwater collection system must capture stormwater discharge
from an area of at least 800 square feet of impervious space and have a minimum storage of
400 gallons.
Maximum Credit— $24/year
Other Residential
Best Management
rac ces
Customers can utilize more sophisticated
best management practices (BMPs)
approved by the Maryland Department of
the Environment.
Maximurn Credit —
45%for 100% onsite
treatment
- 3 years.
3
A. Participation
Single family property customers are eligible for credit based on participation in a public project within the City
specifically targeted at improving water quality, such as trash clean-up, tree planting, and de -paving. These activi-
ties provide direct water quality benefits and increase awareness.
Customers seeking participation credit should be aware of the following parameters.
• For every 8 hours, you can get a credit of $10/year for a maximum of $30 within a 12-month time frame.
11 Residents that exceed the $30/year maximum can gift the credit to another property.
o Multiple residents of the same SFP may all receive participation credit towards their stormwater remediation
fee, up to the 24-hour maximum.
• The credit for a customer's participation in an event may only be applied to one property.
• The credit is good for 12 months. Only events in which the organizers have received certification from the
City are eligible for participation credits.
EXAMPLE 1: PARTICIPATION EVENT CREDITS
Photo courtesy oj!Work Dennis
A family learns from their community
association about a stream cleanup event near
their Tier Z. home. Both parents, as well as their
two children, spend four hours pulling debris as
directed by the event organizer. When finished,
having provided a combined 16 hours of
participation, they take the City certification
document provided by the organizer and submit
a credit application to the City. Since every 8
hours of participation qualifies for $10 in credit,
they are eligible for $20 of credit.
They like working outdoors and decide to
participate in an organized tree planting event.
Their next 16 hours of participation brings them
to 32 hours. That's over the $30 annual
maximum for these credits, so they ask the City
to gift the $10 extra to their elderly neighbor.
All events will be listed on Cleanwaterbaltimore.org at least 14 days prior to the event. If you have any
questions, please contact the Customer Support and Services Division at 410-396-5398.
4
Customers may receive credit for installing and maintaining stormwater treatment practices that limit nutrient
loading and decrease the quantity of stormwater entering the City's drainage system. Single family property
customers can take advantage of simple structural Best Management Practice options as well as more sophisticated
structures.
These practices are eligible for stormwater fee credit:
t1ri
Trees reduce stormwater runoff in addition to
decreasing energy needs. Trees planted after 2010
are eligible for credit. The planted tree must be 1
inch or greater in diameter. Tree plantings must
conform to City landscaping regulations.
A minimum of 2 trees must be planted to be eligible for
this credit Each tree planted is eligible for $3 of credit
per year.
5
'MN
For initial simple residential Best Management Practice credit application, photo documentation is required along with
the completed application form. Renewal applications require photo documentation as well as other applicable
maintenance documentation. Additional help is available through public and private agencies including Tree Baltimore,
Blue Water Baltimore, Center for Watershed Protection, and Parks and People Foundation.
B. Other Residential Best Management Practices
Customers may also receive credit for installing and maintaining other, more sophisticated on -site Best Management
Practices that limit nutrient loading and decrease the quantity of water entering the City's stormwater system. Each
will be subject to an inspection via a simple Right of Entry agreement, and must meet the standards outlined in the
Maryland Stormwater Design Manual. In addition, technical review of the application by the City is required. The
maximum credit is 45% of the stormwater fee for treatment of all of a parcel's impervious area.
IV. Application Process
Customers are able to reduce their base fees through a number of legislated fee reductions and credits. All
reductions must be applied for and are good for the renewal period.
6
A. How to Apply
Applications and this guidance document are available at www.cleanwaterbalitmore.org and at the Abel Wolman
Municipal Building, or by calling the Customer Support and Services Division at (410) 396-5398. Applications and
supporting materials should be submitted to the Bureau of Water and Wastewater at the addresses below, or
faxed to (410) 396-5531.
Bureau of Water and Wastewater
Abel Wolman Municipal Building
200 Holliday Street, Room 404
Attn: Customer Support and Services Division
Baltimore, MD 21202
or
publicworks@baltimorecity.gov
Include "STORMWATER CREDIT APPLICATION" in email subject line
Customers will receive a letter when their application materials have been received and are under review. After
the review, another letter will follow with the application decision. At any time, customers may call the
Department's Customer Support and Services Division at (410) 396-5398.
The customer is still obligated to pay the full fee during the credit application review.
B. Timing of Review
Credit applications are to be reviewed and decided on within 30 days of receipt of a complete application package.
Participation, simple residential treatment practices, small development, vacant lot, and other simple credits or fee
reductions may be complete in a shorter time frame. When a 30 day review period would have allowed a property to
receive credit or a fee reduction on a subsequent quarterly bill and the Department is unable to complete the review
within that period, the credit will be applied retroactively for any quarters that are billed after the 30 day review
period.
C. Appeals
If a customer applies for credit and it is denied after review, the customer may submit an appeal in writing within 30
days of receiving his decision letter. Send the letter to the Bureau of Water and Wastewater to the mailing address,
email address, or fax number listed above. The letter must contain:
• The customer's name;
• Account number;
• Basis of appeal; and
• Evidence to support the customer's contention, such as:
▪ Measurements from an approved as -built engineering drawing;
• A land survey that shows the total parcel area and the impervious area;
■ Proof of ownership or proof of sale; or
N Other reliable documentation that proves the customer's contention.
7
The Director of Public Works is the final authority for the Department on all appeals. If the customer is aggrieved by
the Director's final decision on an appeal, the customer may seek review by the Board of Municipal Zoning Appeals
(BMZA) according to that entity's appeals process. Finally, he may seek judicial review of that decision in the Circuit
Court of Baltimore City.
D. Credit Renewal Process
1. Notification
Stormwater customers are responsible for maintaining an active credit status. If the renewal application is not
received within 30 days before the end of the credit period, the credit may not be reflected on the subsequent
water bill.
2, How to Renew
For each credit or fee reduction type, the application for renewals is the same form as the initial application.
Please include the original documentation as well as documentation describing maintenance where applicable.
3. Timing of Renewal
No credit will be provided in perpetuity. Approval periods are established for each credit type to encourage
maintenance of the practice and verify that the practice provides the intended water quality treatment. Ap-
proval periods are listed in Table 1 (above) for each of the credit types. Credit may be rescinded within the ap-
proval period based on Department inspection. The Department will notify the customer by mail of any deci-
sions to rescind the credit within the approval period.
E. Transference of Credit
Once credits or fee reductions are established, they become a characteristic of the property, rather than the customer.
If a property changes ownership in the middle of its approval period, the new owner will inherit the active credit status,
receive a discounted bill for the remainder of the approval period, and receive a notification letter about credit
renewal. Credits will not be transferred with the customer (including Participation credits).
F. Application
Refer to this guidance document for information on the required documents that should be submitted with your
application. Please retain the following Single Family Property Credit Application for future use.
1ln
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
BUREAU OF WATER & WASTEWATER,
SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
CITY OF BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
II Rate
i� 11 citranwaterbaltimore
MARYLAND STORWATER FEE CREDIT
SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY CREDIT APPLICATION
CUSTOMER NAME:
PROPERTY ADDRESS:
PHONE NUMBER:
MAILING ADDRESS:
If different from property address
Last
First
EMAIL:
(Optional)
PARCEL ID (BLocK/LOT)
(Visit :fJsitysereficEs.baASrr_areciiv �Ov/realpropertyi to search your Block/Lot)
ACCOUNT No.:
TIER:
APPLICATION DATE:
This application is for the renewal of credits.
*For official use only
Credit Type
Brief Description of Events or BMP
Fee Reduction
Participation ($10/8hrs/
year)
Tree Planting ($3/year)
Rainwater Harvesting
($24/year)
Rain Garden ($16/year)
Other BMP Types (Up to
45%)
Total Approved Reduction:
$
Y
To my knowledge, all the information include in the application is correct.
*For official use only
Customer Service Rep:
Date Approved:
9
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
BUREAU OF WATER & WASTEWATER,
SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
CITY OF BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
MARYLAND 5TORWATER FEE CREDIT
SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY CREDIT APPLICATION (CONTINUED)
DIRECTIONS: Refer to the Single Family Property Maryland Stormwater Fee Reductions
Customer Guidance Document for instructions and additional information.
Please send this completed application and required attachments to:
Bureau of Water and Wastewater
Abel Wolman Municipal Building
200 Holliday Street, Room 404
Attn: Customer Support and Services Division
Baltimore, MD 21202
or
Email publicworlcs@baltimorecity.gov
include in subject Tine STORMWATER CREDIT APPLICATION
or
Fax to (410) 396-5531
Questions: Contact the Customer Support and Services Division at (410)396-5398
Please note enclosed documentation as applicable:
Photo of BMP
Sketch showing the location of BMP in relation to lot lines, house
and other impervious area such as sidewalks or driveways
L Executed right -of -entry agreement
L Maintenance documentation (for renewal application)
Certificate(s) of event participation
O Other
THE CUSTOMER IS STILL OBLIGATED TO PAY THE FULL FEE DURING THE CREDIT APPLICATION REVIEW
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www.cleanwaterbaltimore.org
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10
Want to save money on your drainage fee?
If so you may be eligible for the stormwater facility credit program
Stormwater Facimy Credit Program
The Stormwater Facility Credit Program (SFCP) is a credit program for property owners with stormwater
systems that help reduce the impact of stormwater on the City's system. Systems that provide stormwater
flow control and/or provide water quality treatment are eligible for the program.
What are Stormwater Systems'?
Stormwater systems are structures such as vaults, rain gardens, permeable pavements and filtration systems
that provide water quality treatment and/or slow down stormwater flow from impervious surfaces like roof
tops, driveways or walkways. Turn the page over to see pictures of common facilies.
Maintenance Requirements
in order for you to receive or continue to receive credit property owners are responsible for ensuring that the
stormwater system is operating properly in accordance to the Seattle Stormwater code (SMC 22.800). Seattle
Public Utilities may conduct on -site inspections to verify that facilities are functioning and being maintained..
Who Qualifies?
Any parcel property owner with a fully functioning, well maintained stormwater system that is in compliance
with the City Stormwater code (SMC 22.800) standards can qualify for the program. Large parcels with large
amounts of impervious surface being managed by a stormwater system typically benefit the most from the
program; however the program is open to everyone.
If you live in a Single Family Home, the Residental RainWise program may be right for you.
Typically, single family homes do not have stormwater systems that qualify for the Stormwater Facility Credit
Program. But you can still help improve water quality by installing green stormwater infrastructure. For
information and technical assistance in installing green stormwater infrastructure on your property through the
Residential RainWise program, visit www.seattle.govlutil/rainwise,
Program website: www.seattle.gov/util/sfc
For further questions contact: Tasha Bassett (206) 615-0550
Seattle
Public
Utilities
OVER
Common Stormwater Facility Systems
Permeable Pavement
Permeable Pavement is a paving system which allows rainwater to percolate through the system into the underlying soil
or an aggregate reservoir. They are designed to slow down the flow of stormwater and can be used on walk ways or
driveways instead of solid concrete or cement surfaces.
IL I E
OillWater Separator (coalescing plate)
Oil Water separators are systems designed to separate oil and water from each other and allow the oil to stay in the
system while letting the clean water discharge out. There are two types of oil water separators, the baffle system called
American Petroleum Institute (API) or coalescing plate system (CP) as shown.
Detention System (Flow Control Structure)
A detention system is a large pipe or vault that holds rain water on the property and then allows water to flow slowly
through a "flow control structure". The flow control structure has a small hole at the bottom of the pipe that meters the
amount of water that can drain out of the detention system.
Bioretention System
Bioretention systems are shallow depressions in the ground designed with a soil mix and plants adapted to the local
climate and soil conditions. Bioretention systems can both detain and treat stormwater. They can be designed to take
rain water from roof tops, driveways or parking areas.
For more information about stormwater systems and the credit visit our website @ www.seattle.gov/util/sfc
City of Richmond
Department of Public Utilities
Stormvvater Management Program
Singe Family Residential
Property Credit Manual
P.1-: bvtr or;',
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DEPARTMENT Of POE JC [j rILIT .S
Why manage stormwater?
r ANGER
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STORM
The failure to effectively deal with stormwater results in flooding, pollution of streams, creeks and rivers, and
erosion problems. State and federal regulations require the City of Richmond to manage land runoff, rain and snow,
drainage, seepage, etc. — technically known as "non -point source pollution" — and protect our waterways. Solving
these problems can be difficult. The City of Richmond joined hundreds of other communities across the United
States to create a Stormwater Utility, dedicated to funding and addressing these problems.
what are the beneflts?
Fewer flood:ng incidents, heallthier riders, and a
Metter quality of ire for the
citizens of Richmond are the goals of the
Stormwater Management Program.
Stormwater problems require planning,
construction and innovative green practices like
stream restoration and bioretention defined as the
process in which contaminants and sedimentation are
removed from stormwater runoff.
The Stormwater Utility maintains
streams and catch basins, sewers, storm drains and
large pipes that carry stormwater. We monitor the
quality of our streams and rivers.
We address drainage problems, plan watersheds
and manage floodplains. We
have the technical expertise to accomplish
multiple objectives, such as reducing floods
and stormwater pollution, and developing
green space to benefit the community
and residents.
We offer educational programs that
promote awareness of the importance of healthy
watersheds.
We encourage on -site, green alternatives to traditional
"pipe and pond" practices, the type you often see in
shopping center parking lots. Bioretention, floodplain
restoration, vegetated swales (marshy depressions
between ridges), pervious pavement that absorbs
water, and other low -impact development practices
are our priorities.
Rain garden
What is the cost to our customers?
A stormwater utility is based on the premise that the
urban drainage system is a public system, similar to water
or wastewater. When a demand is placed on these
systems, the users pay.
Parking Lots, rooftops, and driveways can't absorb water,
so the water moves quickly over these surfaces into
nearby streams and sewers placing a burden on the urban
drainage system that handles all that runoff. So, the more
paved (or "impervious") surfaces there are on your
property, the greater your responsibility, and that's why
you pay a higher fee.
For single family residential properties, the fee is based on
amaze footage of impervious su face.
Residences are placed in one of three categories based
on total impervious surface:
Small (1,000 sq. ft. or Tess)
Medium (1,001 to 2,399 sq. ft.)
Large (2,400 sq. ft. or more)
A small property pays $2.08 per month,
a medium property pays $3.75 per month
Roof + driveway = 2,350 sq. ft. of
impervious surface = the medium
stormwater fee
Richmond offers 19 ri P
for managing
stormwater at your home or
place of business. This
reduces the cost of
stormwater problems
and encourages
environmental stewardship!
\AIhat is the credit program?
Customers who reduce the volume of water flowing
off their properties into storm drains or surrounding
bodies of water, can receive a reduction in their
stormwater fee.
Credits can be obtained by:
Installation and continuing use and maintenance
of an approved Stormwater Control Measure
(SCM) (not owned or maintained by the City)
Activities that reduce or alleviate the City's cost of
providing a stormwater management program.
3
Single family residential credits
Approved stormwater Control Measures
A reduction of up to a maximum of 50 percent is offered
to customers who implement a combination of different
approved Stormwater Control Measures (SCMs) or
multiples of a single method. See page 16 for examples.
These SCMs include:
RAIN GARDENS
Rain gardens are landscaped areas slightly below
ground level that capture and filter stormwater runoff
from a roof or other impervious (paved) surface.
At least 25 percent of a
property's roof or an
equivalent surface area
must drain to the rain
garden.
Rain gardens must be
sized according to the
Virginia Department of
Forestry publication Rain
Gardens Technical Guide
found at
www.dof.virginia.gov. Go to Conservation>Water
Conservation>Rain Gardens to find it.
VEGETATED FILTER STRIPS
Vegetated filter strips are uniform strips of dense turf,
meadow grasses, trees or other vegetation with a
minimum slope to absorb runoff from roof downspouts.
At least 50 percent of the property's roof must drain
to the filter strip.
Strip must be fully vegetated.
Strip must be at least 50 feet long.
Runoff from roof must be dispersed with a splash
hl^ck nr ininn tho f rnu inh_nr pip.- at thfinal of
downspouts, directing water to the vegetation area.
ON -SITE STO M1I ATEP STORAGE
Includes rain barrels, cisterns, or other stormwater storage
devices approved by the Department of Public Utilities.
50 percent of the property's roof area must be
connected to rain barrels or other storage devices that
provide at least 50 gallons of storage per downspout.
Must be covered with a lid or screen to prevent
mosquitoes.
Must drain in no less than 24 hours and no more than
four days after each rainfall event.
Overflows from storage must be directed to
appropriate outlets or areas and away from
neighboring properties, sidewalks, steep slopes or
retaining walls.
PFRVIOUS PAVEMENT
Pervious pavement may include concrete blocks, grid
pavers, or pervious concrete or asphalt with a stone
reservoir underneath (see p. 14). The reservoir
temporarily stores surface runoff before seeping it into the
soil below.
At least 1,000 square feet of pervious pavement must
be installed.
Stone reservoir must be at least 10 inches deep at all
points.
Gravel is not considered pervious pavement.
Learn more about these SCMs on pp.11
4
maintenance Requirements
Stormwater control measures (SCMs) installed
on a property must be maintained to ensure
continued function. Recommendations can be
found in the Virginia Department of Forestry
Rain Gardens Technical Guide. (see Rain
Gardens on p.4) and on the fact sheets on pp.
10-12j.
Restrictions on credits
Transfer of cretl t: The residential property
yredlt applies only to the applicant Credits do
not transfer if home ownership changes. A new
application must be submitted for new account
holders to receive the credit.
Single Family Residential Property Credit;
Limit: Single Family residential SCMs can be
combined on a property for a credit up to but
not exceeding 50 percent. A single type of SCM
is 20 percent credit.
Local Community Requirements: The SCM
must meet all applicable City of Richmond
building, planning and zoning code
requirements.
The credit is valid for three years. The
property owner must re -submit the renewal
application to continue to receive credit.
Right to Inspection. The City may inspect the
SCM at any time during the three years. if the
on -site stormwater storage is no longer
funrtioning or has .not hswn rriaillt8ingarifthca.nty
reserves the right to trance the credit for up to
three years.
To apply:
Applicants must complete a one -page
General Application (p. 7) and a one -page Single
Family Residential Property Credit Application (p. 9)
and include a photo of their Stormwater Control
Measure (SCM).
Applications must be
submitted with all required
documentation, including
photos, to the
Department of Public
Utilities as described on
each application.
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Submit applications to City of Richmond Department
of Public Utilities, Stormwater Utility, Attn:
Stormwater Credit Applications, 730 E.Broad St., 5th
floor, Richmond, VA 23219.
When an application is received, DPU will conduct a
review of all submitted materials. If the application is
not complete, DPU will contact the applicant and
request the additional information necessary to
complete the application.
Following the receipt of a complete application, DPU
will provide a technical review and the applicant will
be notified in writing when an application is
approved or denied. If an application is denied, the
-applicant- I appeal -based orrthe-appea'is-_.----._._..
procedures in Chapter 106 of the City of Richmond
administrative code.
5
Instructions for completing the General Application
1. Applicant Name —Name of individual property owner.
2. Property Address —list address number and street name.
Include city and zip code.
3. Mailing address Include if different from property address.
4. Parcel ID number —Each piece of land has its own parcel ID
number. This information can be found on the City's website
at http://eservices. e%richmond. va. ors/applications/
Property5earch. The number also appears on property tax
assessments and bills.
5. Phone number The primary contact for the applicant.
6. Email address —The primary contact for the applicant.
7. Check -one Check which box applies.
8. Credits applying for —Select the credit for which the applicant
is applying. If you are doing a residential project, check the
first box. The other options relate to commercial properties
andapartment complexes.
9. Applicant signature/date.
General Application
CITY Of RICNMOMO
i,..�J:,.a+
Applicant Name:
Property Address:
Street:
City:
Zip code:
Mailing address: (if different than property address)
•
Parcel ID number:
Phone Number:
Email address:
Check One:
■ This is the first credit application for this property.
❑ This is a credit renewal request.
■ This is a reapplication after a credit suspension.
Credit applying for;
❑ Single-family residential property
❑ Multi -family and non-residential VPDES industrial permit
❑ Multi -family and non-residential Stormwater Quantity Controls
❑ Multi -family and non-residential Stormwater Quality Controls
❑ Multi -family and non-residential Good Housekeeping Practices
Applicant/Contact signature: Date:
Mail to: City of Richmond
Stormwater Utility
Attn: Stormwater Credit Applications
730 E. Broad St., Sty, Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
7
instructions for completing the
Single Famiij Residential Property
Credit Application
1. Applicant Name —Warne of individual property owner.
2, Property Addresslistaddress number and street name.
Include city and zip code.
3. Mailing address —Include if different from property
address.
4. Parcel ID number Each piece of land has its own parcel
ID number. This information can be found on the City's
we bsite at http //eservices. ci richmond. va, cis/applications/
PropertySearc_h_ The number also appears on the property
tax assessments and bills.
5. Phone number —Of primary contact for the application.
6. Email address —Of primary contact for the application.
7. Check -one --check which box applies.
8. Credits applying for Select the credit for which the
applicant is applying.
9. Applicant signature/date.
Single family Residential
Stormwater credit application
ki9i �,Ei7 OF RIVIMOIr
Applicant Name:
Parcel ID Number:
Email address:
Credit Applying For:
❑ Rama Garden
# of downspouts draining to rain garden
Date of construction
❑ On -site Stormwater Storage
❑ Rain barrels n Cistern o other
# of downspouts draining to on -site storage
Volume of on -site storage gallons
❑ Pervious Pavement
❑ Paving blocks ❑ grid or grass pavers 0 pervious concrete or asphalt
Area of installation: _ _ square feet
0 Stone reservoir is at least 10 inches deep at all points
O Compliant with local driveway installation code
O Vegetated Filter Strip
# of downspouts draining to vegetated filter strip:
Slope of yard: cyci
Length of vegetated strip: feet
Type of vegetation:
❑ Photograph of Stormwater Control Measure (SCM) as installed is attached.
9
Single family residential stormwater
credit application (cont.)
CITY OF ti GNO1i1N9
Sketch of property with SCM shown.
All applicable local codes:
(initial) I, the applicant, have complied with all local codes applicable to the
installation of the SCM.
Owner certification:
(initial) I hereby certify that I own and live at the property and I further declare,
under penalty of perjury, that the information provided by me in this application is the truth
to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Applicant/Owner signature Date:
Mail to:
City of Richmond
5tormw ter Utility
ions
730 E. Broad St., 5th Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
I0
rain garden
RAIN GARDENS are landscaped areas built in a depression that capture and
filter stormwater runoff from a roof or other impervious surface. The plants and
soil in a rain garden provide an easy, natural way of reducing the amount of
stormwater runoff.
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Installation standards
To obtain a single family residential property credit for
a rain garden the following standards and requirements
must be met:
At least 25 percent of the property's roof area or
equivalent impervious surface must drain to the
rain garden.
The rain garden must be sized and constructed
according to the Virginia Department of Forestry
Rain Gardens Technical Guide.
Overflows must be directed to appropriate outlets
or areas and away from neighboring properties,
sidewalks, steep slopes or retaining walls.
MOISTURE TQLERAHT PLANT
MATERIAL AT BOTTOM
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WATER CONDITIONS
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Maintenance guidelines
1. Rain gardens must be maintained annually to ensure continued
function. Maintenance includes weeding, checking for erosion and
other tasks listed in the Rain Garden Technical Guide.
2. The properly owner is responsible fur ltldintdiiliny Lhe i lirl yaide"ri.
The credit renewal process will require documentation that the rain
garden continues to function as approved.
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Rain garden
cross section
_Inclucle_a_priataCtf.the
rain garden with your
application?
11
on -site stormwater storage structures
OM -SITE STORMWATER STORAGE STRUCTURES can include rain barrels, cisterns or other devices as
approved by the City of Richmond Stormwater Utility. These structures collect and capture rooftop
rainwater that would otherwise drain directly to the stormwater system or streams. The collected
rainwater can be used to water plants, trees, or lawns during dry periods.
RAIN BARREL:
A rain berg a is a 40-55 gallon barrel or drum with
some type of diverter or connection from a
downspout, a spigot or hose to drain the barrel, and
some type of overflow mechanism. Any openings to
the air should be screened
'"i to keep debris and insects
+ out.
An overflow mechanism
Imust be provided so that
when the rain barrel is
full, excess water can flow
back into the downspout
and then to a storm
sewer, or into a
II landscaped area.
T Saving water not only
helps protect the
environment it saves money and energy because of
the decreased demand for treated tap water. You
can purchase a rain barrel or make your own. Your
rain barrel must meet the credit requirements on
the next page.
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CISTERN
Cisterns are similar to rain barrels in function, but
hold larger quantities of water. They can be
installed underground, at ground level, or elevated
depending on the site and space constraints of the
property.
A cistern should be constructed out of reinforced
concrete, galvanized steel, or plastic, and should
have smooth interior surfaces, be watertight, have
enclosed lids and be sized according to the
installation standards on the next page to manage
the proper amount of runoff.
To obtain a single family
residential credit for
on -site stormwater
storage...
Certain standards and
guidelines must be met!
12
on -site stormwater storage structures, cont.
Installation standards
To obtain a single family residential property credit
for on -site stormwater storage the following
standards and requirements must be met:
1. 50 percent of the property's roof area is
properly connected to rain barrels or other
approved storage devices that provide at least
40 gallons of storage per downspout
2. On -site stormwater storage must be completed
in such a way that mosquitoes cannot breed in
the water. Cover the rain barrels with a lid or
screen that prevents mosquitoes from entering
the storage structure.
3. On -site stormwater storage must be equipped
with an overflow or bypass mechanism to
divert rainwater to the storm drainage systems
when the storage container is full. These
mechanisms must not cause erosion, property
damage or overflow onto a neighboring
property.
4. On -site stormwater storage must be completely
drained in no less than 24 hours and no longer
than four days after each rainfall event.
5. All on -site stormwater storage structures must
meet the local codes for downspout
disconnection, property setbacks and all other
applicable codes.
where to get a rain barrel:
You can purchase a rain barrel at most major
lawn and garden centers. Call your local center to
see if they carry them or if they can order one for
you. There are numerous online suppliers as
well, including amazon.com.
You can also make your own rain barrel using a
large trashcan, agricultural supply container, or
other large container and a little ingenuity.
Fnr more recommendations, tally to your !oral
Soil and Water Conservation District or
watershed group (see back page).
maintenance guidelines
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Clean your gutters regularly to reduce debris.
Clear off any screens as necessary.
Periodically check any hoses associated with
the storage structure to clear any debris.
To winterize, disconnect and return the
downspout to its original configuration.
Remove the hoses and mesh screen and
store them. Make sure to drain the container
to prevent it from freezing and cracking. If
possible, store it upside down, so no water
or materials will be able to enter.
For cisterns, leave the outflow spigot fully
open during frost/freezing periods and
unhook the drain hose about twice a year to
clean out any compacted sediment.
Renter fiber to include a photo
of your rain barrel With your
application!
13
pervious pavement
PERVIOUS PAVEMENTS are designed to allow stormwater to seep
through the surface into the soil below where the water is naturally filtered and
pollutants are removed. Pervious pavement may include paving blocks, grid
pavers, pervious concrete, or pervious asphalt. Gravel driveways are not
considered pervious and are not eligible for a credit.
It is recommended that a qualified installer with knowledge of hydrology and
hydraulics be consulted for applications using pervious pavement to ensure
desired results. This fact sheet provides an overview of construction guidelines
and research to date, but is not meant to replace the services of experienced,
professional installers.
installation stana rc s:
To obtain a credit for pervious pavement the
following criteria must be met:
Installed for the purpose of runoff filtration.
Area of pervious pavement is at least 1,000
square feet.
Stone reservoir underneath the pavement type
is at least 10 inches deep at all points.
Installation meets all local building and zoning
standards for driveway insta!!ations.
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TYP. NO.8 AGGREGATE IN OPENINGS
-
EGO -STONE CONCRETE PAVERS
31r8' (80 mm) THICK
CURWEDGE RESTRAINT WITH CUT-OUTS
FOR OVERFLOW DRAINAGE (CURB SHOWN)
- BEDDING COURSE 1 112 TO 2" (40 TO 50 mm) THICK
(TYP. NO. 8 AGGREGATE)
4" (100 MM) THICK NO. 57 STONE
OPEN -GRADED BASE
MIN. 8" (150 M:) THICK
NO. 2 STONE SUBBASE
OPTIONAL GEOTEXTILE ON SOTTOM AND
SIDES OF OPEN -GRADED BASE
SOIL SUBGRAOE . ZERO SLOPE
•
Maintenance
guidelines:
1. Ensure pervious pavement
system is draining, and
there are no visible signs of
standing water on surface.
2. Do not apply salt or sand
during winter months.
3. Use a professional vacuum
service annually to remove
sediment accumulation and
organic debris on the
pavement surface.
4. Remove accumulated leaves
and debris from pavement
surface in the fall.
Remember to include a photo of the pervious
pavement and a photo of the
construction identifying the depth of the
stone reservoir with your application!
14
vegetated filter
VEGETATED FILTER STRIPS are uniform strips of dense turf, meadow
grasses, trees, or other vegetation with a minimum slope to treat runoff from
roof downspouts.
Insulation standards:
To obtain a credit for vegetated filter strips the
following criteria must be met:
50 percent of the property's roof area drains to
the vegetated filter strip.
Filter strips are fully vegetated and there are no
areas of bare soil or mulch.
Filter strips must be at least 50 feet long.
Runoff from roof downspouts must be dispersed
using splash block (a type of splash block is
pictured at right).
Slope of the downspout must be less than five
percent.
iry
Maintenance guidelines:
1. Clean gutters regularly to reduce debris.
2. Check the splash blocks twice a year to make
sure they are not broken or damaged.
3. Maintain healthy vegetation along the filter strip.
4. Plant additional vegetation if bare soil or erosion
is present.
vegetated filter strip
with your application!
15
Example
1
Jane Doe wants to apply for a stormwater credit. Let's
follow along as she decides which stormwater control
measures (SCMs) will work for her as she fills out her
application.
Jane has downspouts on her house. To qualify for a it credit, half her roof
needs to drain to the rain barrels.
Let's look at Jane's roof.
This downspout
drains the red
area (or half of
her the roof)
This downspout drains the green area
(or a quarter of her roof)
This downspout drains the blue area
(or a quarter of her roof)
For Jane to qualify for the credit either the red downspout or both the green and blue
downspouts need to be connected to rain barrels because the credit requires half the
roof to drain into a storage device. Jane decides to put a rain barrel on the red drain
and goes to her neighborhood garden center and purchases a rain barrel kit. She
attaches the rain barrel to the red downspout and is now is eligible for a 20 percent
credit!
But Jane isn't finished! She likes saving water and decides to add
two more barrels and capture all the rain from her roof. She installs
two more rain barrels and applies for another credit. Her credit is
now 40 percent! Go Jane!
Let's review Jane's situation. She has installed three rain barrels and has qualified for
40 percent off her stormwater bill. She can earn up to 50 percent off so she still
has 10 percent more to save. What else can she do to get that last 10 percent of credit?
Her driveway and patio square footage equals 675 square feet so she doesn't meet the
1,000 square foot installation requirement for pervious pavement.
Jane reviews her credit manual and discovers another way to save. Jane likes
gardening, so she chooses a rain garden for her last SCM. Jane downloads the Rain
Garden Technical Guide on the Department of Forestry's website. Jane has already
captured all of the rain from her roof, so she searches for drainage from another
impervious surface area where she can capture the water. With a little reworking of
the landscaping, Jane can capture the runoff from her small driveway into an
appropriately sized rain garden. Jane fills out her third credit application to use the
remaining 10 percent credit available to her.
With a little bit of research, sweat equity and planning, Jane has accomplished great
things! She has saved WaLl1, reuuce11.1V11uL1JL1 and' added. Q beautiful new garden.
Oh —and she saved 50 percent on her stormwater bill. Good job, Jane!
16
resources
Virginia Department of Forestay
Information on water quality and rain gardens
Rain Garden Technical Guide
http://www.dof.virginia.gov
434-977-6555
Virginia Soil and Water Conservation District
Watershed education, low impact development information, backyard conservation, lawn and tree care
tips, rain garden and rain barrel information
http://www.vaswcd.org
804-559-0324
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Watershed education, lawn care and pet waste information, land conservation
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov
804-786-1712
Clean Virginia Waterway
Rain barrel workshops and supplies, watershed education
http://www.longwood.edu/cleanva
434-395-2602
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Water Quality, lawn care tips, Chesapeake Bay education, rain garden and rain barrel information
http://www.cbf.org
804-648-4011
Alliance for the chpganpakp. Bpi'
Chesapeake Bay education, Clean Stream projects, rain barrel and native landscaping information
http://www.allianceforthebay.org
804-775-0951
Environmental Protection agency (EPA)
Pollution Prevention
http://www.epa.gov/stormwater
800-438-2474
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CITY ag RICt^riS140
DEPAPTMEN7 OF PUBLIC UTIL!PFs
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17
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
CREDIT MANUAL
4
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RESOURCES
Department of Water Resources
525 Taylor Street
Lynchburg, VA 24501
434.455.4250
www.Iynch burgva.gov jstormwater
2
WHY IS STORMWATER IMPORTANT
1 tormwater runoff is the water that flows off
roofs, driveways, parking Tots, streets and other
hard surfaces during rain storms. Stormwater
runoff is also the water that flows off grass surfaces
and wooded areas that is not absorbed into the
soil. Runoff that is not absorbed into the ground flows
into ditches, culverts, catch basins and storm sewers
and typically does not receive any treatment to
remove pollutants before entering our local creeks
and streams.
Water from rain or melting snow either seeps into the
ground or flows across the ground, ultimately making
its way into streams, creeks, and other water bod-
ies. On its way, this runoff can pick up many natural
and man-made substances that can pollute local
water bodies. Examples of common pollutants
include fertilizer, pesticide, pet waste, sediment, oil,
salt, trace metals, grass clippings, leaves, and litter.
Polluted runoff can be generated anywhere people
use or alter the land, such as farms, yards, roofs,
driveways, parking lots, construction sites, and road-
ways.
BENEFITS OF A STORMWATER UTILITY
A stormwater utility is based on the premise that the
urban drainage system is a public drainage system,
similar to water or wastewater systems. When a
demand is placed on these systems, the user pays.
Stormwater runoff needs to be managed just as any
other process in the City is managed, such as the
water, sewer, roadway, or solid waste systems.
Management is essential to protect the quality of our
natural watercourses as drinking
water supplies and for recreational
activities such as swimming,
fishing and boat-
ing. Stormwater also needs to
be managed to ensure that
during storm events that
stormwater runoff does not
flood or erode private prop-
erty or otherwise put public
safety or private property at
risk.
2
3
WHAT IS THE COST TO THE CUSTOMER
Parking lots, rooftops and driveways can't absorb water, so it
moves quickly over these surfaces into nearby storm sewers
and streams. A greater flow of water —i.e. a greater demand —is
placed on the urban drainage system. So, the more paved — or
"impervious" —surfaces there are on your property, the greater
the demand on the system.
For single-family residential properties, the fee is based on
square footage of impervious surface. These properties are
placed in three categories based on total impervious area.
Small
Medium
Large
Impervious Area
1,300 sq. ft. or less
1,301 to 4,300 sq. ft.
4,301 sq. ft. or more
$2
$4
$6.40
HOW CAN i EARN A CREDIT?
Residents that implement stormwater best management
practices (BMPs) to reduce the stormwater rate or volume flow-
ing from their properties to the storm system or surrounding
bodies of water, can qualify to receive a reduction in their
stormwater fee.
If approved, each device will earn the property owner a credit
of 20% of the stormwater utility fee, up to a maximum credit of
50% of the fee. No property owner shall receive a credit of
greater than 50% of the fee.
The City shall affirm or deny credit applications and reapplica-
tions within 45 days of submittal. Any credit denial shall in-
clude comments from the City indicating what modification the
applicant can make in order to achieve acceptance of the credit
or shall include a statement that the credit application as sub-
mitted must be restructured significantly to achieve approval.
Property owner can submit a BMP design for approval prior to
construction. Credit will not be applied until the BMP has been
constructed and the construction has been approved.
4 The credit
a homeowner can
receive is 500/0.
• Credits are valid for
three years
♦ Proper installation
and maintenance is
required to continue
receiving the credit.
FT'
4
APPROVED BM PS
Rain Garden
A rain garden is a
landscaped area in a
depression designed
to capture and filter
stormwater runoff
from an impervious
surface.
Design Requirements
At least 50% of a property's impervious surface
area must drain to the rain garden. The rain gar-
den must be designed according to either:
• Virginia Department of Conservation and
Recreation - Stormwater Design Specification
No. 9 - Bioretention
• Virginia Department of Conservation and
Recreation - Minimum Standard 3.11 -
Bioretention Basin Practices
If 90% of a property's impervious surface area
drains to a rain garden, double credit may be
given up to the maximum amount. Include
mosquito prevention and overflow controls.
Vegetated Filter Strip
Vegetated filter strips
are runoff flow paths
of dense turf, meadow
grasses, trees or other
vegetation with a min-
imum slope to treat
runoff from roof
downspouts.
Design Requirements
• At least 50% of the property's roof area drains
to vegetated filter strips.
• Downspout discharge must be dispersed using
splash block.
• Filter strips are fully vegetated with no bare
soil or mulch.
• Minimum flow length of 50 feet with slope
of 5% or less.
!P1-11/11ral.
5o foot
Unmowed
Mowed
Rain Barrel/Cistern
Temporary storage of stormwater runoff can re-
duce peak runoff volumes and can result in re-
duced overall stormwater volumes by discharging
runoff over less saturated
sail, thereby allowing great-
er infiltration and evapora-
tion of runoff to occur.
Other comparable configu-
rations may be approved
with appropriate detention
time, volume, and release
rate calculations.
In order to be effective, empty storage space
must be available when rain falls. Therefore, the
rain barrel or other storage device must empty
itself within 4 to 48 hours of the end of rainfall. If
the property owner wishes to save rainfall for use
in gardening or other non -potable uses, additional
storage for such uses may be installed. However,
stormwater utility credit is granted only for stor-
age that empties itself.
Design Requirements
At least 50% of a property's roof area must
drain to a rain barrel or other self -emptying
storage device.
• At least one gallon of storage must be provid-
ed for every three square foot of roof area.
(stores one half inch of rain)
• Must drain in no less than 24 hours and no
more than 4 days after each rainfall event.
• Overflows from storage must be directed to
appropriate outlets or areas and away from
neighboring properties, sidewalks, steep
slopes or retaining walls.
n1
Pervious Pavement
Pervious pavements are designed to allow infiltra-
tion of stormwater through the surface into the
soil below where water is naturally filtered and
pollutants are removed. Pervious pavements may
include paving blocks, grid pavers, pervious
concrete, or pervious asphalt. Gravel is not
considered pervious and is not eligible for a credit.
Design Requirements
• At least 1000 square
aA
feet of pervious pave-
ment must be installed.
• Stone reservoir must be
at least 10 inches deep
at all points.
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4
5
1 NSTRUCTIONS
How do 1 apply?
All applicants must complete a Single -Family General Application and include a picture of the Best
Management Practice. Applications must be submitted with all required documentation, including
photos, to the address below.
Once the Department of Water Resources has received your application, an administrative com-
pleteness review will be conducted. If the application is not complete, the Department will con-
tact the applicant and may request additional information necessary to complete the application.
Once a complete application has been received the Department will review all documentation and
the applicant will be notified in writing when an application is approved or denied. If an applica-
tion is denied, the applicant can file appeal to the Department of Water Resources.
The appeals form, credit application and manual can be found at the website below:
http://www.lynchburgva.gov/stormwater
Application checklist:
1) Install your selected Best Management
Practice.
2) Complete the Single -Family General Appli-
cation.
3) Include pictures of each Best Manage-
ment Practice installed.
4) Review your application.
5) Submit application to the address below.
City of Lynchburg
Department of Water Resources
Attn: Storinwater
525 Taylor Street
Lynchburg VA 24501
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6
RAIN GARDEN DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
RAIN GARDENS are landscaped areas built in a depression that are designed to
capture and filter stormwater runoff from a roof or other impervious surface.
The plants and soil in a rain garden provide an easy, natural way of reducing
the amount of stormwater runoff.
Installation standards
To obtain a single family residential property credit for
a rain garden the following standards and requirements
must be met:
- At least 25 % of the property's roof area or
equivalent impervious surface must drain to the
rain garden.
The rain garden must be sized and constructed
according to the Virginia Department of Forestry
Rain Gardens Technical Guide. Any alternate
design must be pre -approved.
• Overflows must be directed to appropriate outlets
or areas and away from neighboring properties,
sidewalks, steep slopes or retaining walls.
Rain garden cross section
Maintenance guidelines
1. Rain gardens must be maintained annually to ensure continued func-
tion. Maintenance includes weeding, checking for erosion and other
tasks listed in the Rain Garden Technical Guide.
2. The property owner is responsible for maintaining the rain garden. The
credit renewal process will require documentation that the rain garden
continues to function as approved.
credit
r
-104,41
Include a photo of
the rain garden
with your
application!
6
7
ON SITE STORMWATER STORAGE
ON -SITE STORMWATER STORAGE STRUCTURES can include rain barrels, cis-
terns other devices as approved by the City of Lynchburg Stormwater Utility. These
structures collect and capture rooftop rainwater that would otherwise drain directly
to the stormwater system or streams. The collected rainwater can be used to water
plants, trees or lawns during dry periods.
RAIN BARREL
A rain barrel is composed of a 40-55
gallon barrel or drum with some
type of diverter or connection from a
downspout, a spigot or hose to drain
the barrel and some type of over-
flow mechanism. Any openings to
the air should be screened to keep
debris and insects out.
An overflow mechanism must be
provided so that when the rain barrel
is full, excess water can flow back into
the downspout and then to a storm
drain or onto a landscaped area.
Saving water not only helps protect
the environment, it saves money
and energy because of the decreased
demand for treated tap water. You
can purchase a rain barrel or
make your own. Ensure your rain
barrel will meet the credit
requirements on the next page.
K
fre-
••rr•��rikrrs�+
Cisterns are similar to rain barrels in
function but hold larger quantities of
water. They can be installed under
ground, at ground level, or elevated
depending on the site and space
constraints of the property.
A cistern should be constructed out of
reinforced concrete, galvanized steel, or
plastic, and should have smooth interior
surfaces, be watertight, have enclosed lids
and be sized according to the installation
standards on the next page to manage the
proper amount of runoff.
r
Certain design standards and
guidelines must be met to obtain
a SFR Credit.....
Keep reading to find out more on
the next page
8
ON SITE STORMWATER STORAGE, CONT...
Installation Standards
To obtain a single family residential property
credit for on -site stormwater storage the
following standards and requirements must
be met:
1. 50% of the property's roof area is proper-
ly connected to rain barrels or other
approved storage devices that provide at
least 40 gallons of storage per downspout
2. On -site stormwater storage must be
completed in such a way that does not
provide mosquito breeding grounds; such
as making sure rain barrels are covered
with a lid or screen that prevents mosqui-
toes from entering the storage structure.
3. On -site stormwater storage must be
equipped with an overflow or bypass
mechanism to divert rainwater to the
storm drainage systems when storage
structure is full. These mechanisms must
not cause erosion, property damage or
overflow onto a neighboring property.
4. On -site stormwater storage must be
completely drained in no less than 24
hours and no longer than 4 days after
each rainfall event.
5. All on -site stormwater storage structures
must meet the local codes for downspout
disconnection, property setbacks and all
other applicable codes.
Where to get a rain barrel:
You can purchase a rain barrel at most major
lawn and garden centers. Call your local center
to see if they carry them or if they can order
one for you. There are numerous online suppli-
ers as well.
You can also make your own rain barrel using a
large trashcan, agricultural supply container, or
other large container and a little ingenuity.
For further recommendations, talk to your local
Soil & Water Conservation District or watershed
group (see back page for contact information).
Maintenance Guidelines
1. Clean your gutters regularly to reduce
debris.
2. Clear off any screens as necessary.
3. Periodically check any hoses associated
with the storage structure to clear any
debris.
4. To winterize, disconnect and return the
downspout to its original configuration.
Remove the hoses and mesh screen and
store them. Make sure to drain the con-
tainer to prevent it from freezing and
cracking. If possible, store it upside down,
so no water or materials will be able to
enter.
5. For cisterns, leave the outflow spigot fully
open during frost/freezing periods and
unhook the drain hose about twice a year
to clean out any compacted sediment.
Include a photo of the
rain garden with your
application!
8
9
PERVIOUS PAVEMENT
PERVIOUS PAVEMENTS are designed to allow percolation or infiltration of storm -
water through the surface into the soil below where the water is naturally filtered
and pollutants are removed. Pervious pavement may include paving blocks, grid
pavers, pervious concrete, or pervious asphalt. Gravel driveways are not considered
pervious and are not eligible for a credit.
20%
credit
It is recommended that a qualified installer with knowledge of hydrology and hydraulics be consulted
for applications using pervious pavement to ensure desired results. This fact sheet provides an over-
view of construction guidelines and research to date and is not meant to replace the services of expe-
rienced, professional installers.
installation standards:
To obtain a credit for pervious pavement
the following criteria must be met:
▪ Installed for the purpose of runoff filtration.
• Area of pervious pavement is at least 1000
sq. ft.
• Stone reservoir underneath the pavement
type is at least 10 inches deep at all points.
• Installation meets ail local building and zon-
ing standards for driveway installations.
TYP. N0. 8 AGGREGATE IN OPENINGS
ECOSTONE CONCRETE PAVERS
3118' (50 mm) THICK
CURBJEDGE RESTRWNT WITH CUTOUTS
FOR OVERFLOW DRAINAGE {CURB SHOWN}
BEDDING COURSE 1 112 TO 2" (40 TO 50 min) THICK
(TYP. NO, 8 AGGREGATE)
4" (100 MM) TRICK NO. 57 STONE
OPEN -GRADED BASE
IAN. 8' 050 Mk!) THICK
NO. 2 STONE SUBOASE
OPTIONAL GEOT XTLLE ON BOTTOM AND
SIDES OF 0P€N•GRADED BASE
SOIL SUBGRADE•ZERO SLOPE
Maintenance Guidelines
1. Ensure pervious pavement system is
draining and there are no visible signs
of standing water on the surface.
2. Do not apply salt or sand during win-
ter months.
3. Use a professional vacuum service an-
nually to remove sediment accumula-
tion and organic debris on the pave-
ment surface.
4. Remove accumulated leaves and de-
bris from pavement surface in the fall.
Remember to include a
photo of the pervious
Ipavement and a photo of
the construction identifying
the depth of stone reservoir
with your application!
9
10
VEGETATIVE FILTER STRIPS
VEGETATED FILTER STRIPS are uniform strips of dense turf, meadow
grasses, trees, or other vegetation with a minimum slope to treat runoff
from roof downspouts.
Installation standards:
To obtain a credit for vegetated filter
strips the following criteria must be
met:
• 50% of the property's roof area
drains to the vegetated filter strip.
• Filter strips are fully vegetated and
there are no areas of bare soil or
mulch.
Filter strips must be at least 50 feet long with
slopes Tess than 5%.
• Runoff from roof downspouts must be dispersed
using splash block.
volt A
0%
Credit
Maintenance guidelines:
1. Clean gutters regularly to reduce
debris.
2. Check the splash blocks twice a
year to make sure they are not
broken or damaged.
3. Maintain healthy vegetation along the
filter strip.
4. Plant additional vegetation if bare
soil or erosion is present.
Include a photo of the
vegetated filter strip
with your application!
10
11
EXAMPLE
The Smith's want to apply for a stormwater credit. Follow along as they decide which
stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) will work for their property and fill out their
application.
Let's look at their home:
This downspout
drains
the area
This downspout
drains
the GREEN area
This downspout
drains
the BLUE area
For the Smith's to qualify for the credit either the red downspout or both the green and blue
downspouts need to be connected to rain barrels. They decide to put a rain barrel on the red
drain and goes to their neighborhood garden center and purchases a rain barrel kit. They
attach the rain barrel to the red downspout and are now eligible for a 20% credit!
But they are not finished! They like saving water and decide to add two more barrels and cap-
ture all the rain from their roof. They install two more rain barrels and applies for another credit.
Their credit is up to 40%1
Lets review the Smith's situation. They have installed three rain barrels and have qualified for
40% off their stormwater bill. They can earn up to 500/0 off so they still have 10% more
to save. What else can they do to get that last 10% credit? Their driveway and patio square
footage equals 675 square feet so they don't meet the 1000 square foot installation require-
ment tor pervious pavement.
The Smith's review their Credit Manual and discover another way to save. They like gardening,
so they choose a rain garden for their next BMP. They download the Rain Garden Technical
Guide on the Department of Forestry's website. They have already captured all of the rain from
their roof, so they search for drainage from another impervious surface area where water can
be captured. With a little reworking of the landscaping, they can capture the runoff from the
small driveway into an appropriately sized rain garden. They fill out a third credit application
for the remaining 10% credit.
With a little bit of research, sweat equity and planning, the Smith's have accomplished great
things! They have saved water, reduced pollution and added a beautiful new garden.
Oh —and they saved 50% on their stormwater bill. Good job Smith family!!!
11
12
RESOURCES
Department of Forestry
Information on Water Quality and rain gardens
Rain garden Technical Guide
http://www.do£virginia.gov
434-977-6555
Soil & Water Conservation Distr'-*
Watershed education, low impact development information, backyard conservation, lawn and
tree care tips, rain garden and rain barrel information
http://www.vaswcd.org
804-559-0324
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
Watershed education, lawn care and pet waste information, land conservation
http://www.dcr.virginia.gov
804-786-1712
lames River Ascnriitinn
9 South 12th Street, 4th Floor
Richmond, VA 23219
www.jamesriverassociation.org
(804) 788-8811
lean Virginia Waterways
Rain barrel workshops and supplies, watershed education
http://www.longwood.edu/cleanva
434-395-2602 =
r`*
Chesapeake Bay Foundation
Water Quality, Lawn care tips, Bay education,
rain garden & rain barrel information
http://www.cbf.org
804-648-4011
Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay
Bay education, Clean Stream projects, rain barrel
and native landscaping information
http://www.allianceforthebay.org
804-775-0951
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Pollution Prevention
http://www.epa.gov/stormwater
800-438-2474
Storrnwater BMPs help
manage the quantity and
quality of stormwater runes
12
A Guide to the Stormwater Quality Credits
Program
The Minneapolis Stormwater Quality Credits program
offers residents and business owners a credit of up to
fifty percent of monthly stormwater utility charges.
The program encourages City residents to manage
rainwater and address problems arising from
stormwater runoff in an urban environment. In
Minneapolis, and other large cities, large amount of
impervious surfaces (hard surfaces, such as buildings
areas, asphalt or cement, heavily compacted soils)
stop stormwater from being naturally absorbed into the
ground. The runoff from these areas transports de-
icing salt, metals & petrochemicals from cars, excess
fertilizer, pet waste and trace amounts from common
chemicals, to receiving bodies of water. This is a
major source of water pollution in urban areas. In urban environments, the amount of impervious
area on a property is the most significant factor affecting both the quality and quantity of stormwater
runoff.
By using stormwater Best Management Practices (also known as BMPs), property owners can
partially duplicate the effect of the open areas and wetlands, providing natural drainage prior to
urbanization. The Quality Credits program offers property owners a credit equivalent to fifty percent
of the stormwater charges for the portion of their impervious area that drains to an approved
stormwater quality management tool. Below is a partial list of stormwater BMPs approved for use
in the Quality Credits program:
• Rain Gardens
• Pervious Pavers
• Wet Ponds
• Dry Wells
▪ Sand Filters
• Filter Strips
• Infiltration Trenches
• Green Roofs
While the reduction in charges offered by the stormwater Quality Credit may not seem large for
smaller sites, there are other potential benefits to participating in the program. In addition to
creating a sustainable urban environment, many stormwater BMPs can be built as attractive
landscape features that add "curbside appeal" and increase property values. Many realtors state
well designed landscape projects are one of the best investments property owners can make,
outperforming the costlier projects such as room additions, or kitchen and bath upgrades.
Participation in the Stormwater Quality Credits Program by a property owner contributes towards
the common good and a worthwhile investment for the individual property owner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Since the inception of the Minneapolis Stormwater Utility Fee in 2005, the Public Works Department
has responded to thousands of requests for information and reviewed hundreds of Stormwater
Credit applications. The following page contains answers to some Frequently Asked Questions
received by staff regarding the Stormwater Quality Credit Program.
1. I don't see that any rain leaves my yard when it rains. Why don't my lawn and
garden areas count as stormwater BMPs?
While a rain shower of a few tenths to one quarter of an inch may not result in visible runoff,
there are several reasons that lawns and gardens do not function as adequate stormwater
4.1
BMPs. Typically, soil in a yard is heavily compacted. The roots of common turf grasses and
many garden plants are very shallow, therefore not capable of absorbing much moisture.
During heavy rains, these areas become saturated beyond capacity, not allowing them to retain
moisture. This generates runoff that is transported to receiving bodies of water. Stormwater
BMPs, like rain gardens or sand filters, are designed to allow filtration and infiltration of
stormwater runoff, thereby helping to reduce the transport of pollutants to area lakes and
streams.
2. If pervious pavers qualify as a stormwater BMP, why do existing gravel
driveways or brick patios and sidewalks count as impervious areas?
For pervious pavers to function effectively, both the surface and subsurface structure must be
properly designed to allow for infiltration of stormwater runoff. A gravel driveway lacks this
required substructure. Because the soils are compacted by vehicles, the surface becomes
nearly as impervious as asphalt or concrete during a significant rain. For areas paved with
standard bricks, lack of adequate spacing between individual pavers and the absence of a
substructure properly designed to allow infiltration, results in a nearly impervious surface. Only
those paved areas constructed with materials and techniques specifically designed to act as
stormwater BMPs qualify for the Stormwater Quality Credits Program.
3. Does a rain barrel qualify as a Stormwater Quality Credit?
Installation of rain barrels alone does not qualify as a Stormwater BMP. Rain barrel capacity is
too small to have an appreciable effect on the quality of stormwater runoff from a site. During a
one -inch rain storm, a 1,000 S.F. area will generate over 700 gallons of water and with an
average capacity of approximately 50 gallons. Typical rain barrels are unable to adequately
treat this amount of runoff, even if more than one is installed. By providing water to irrigate
gardens between rains, rain barrels are still an environmentally sound and useful tool for water
conservation.
4. The City recently required me to disconnect my gutters from the sanitary sewer
system. Do I get a credit for this on my monthly stormwater bill?
There is no relation between the Rainleader Disconnect requirement and Stormwater Utility
fees. Compliance does not qualify a property to receive Stormwater Quality Credits. Roof
drains, gutters and area drains connected to the sanitary sewer can cause the amount of flow
to exceed the capacity of the sanitary system. This could result in the overflow of raw sewage
directly to area streams and rivers. Removing these connections (as well as sump pump and
other "clear water" connections) address both environmental and public health concerns, and
are also mandated by the Metropolitan Council, Minnesota State Government and Minneapolis
City Ordinances.
Stormwater Quality Credits Application Form instructions
Introduction: To qualify to receive a Stormwater Quality Credit for your property, you need to
submit a completed credit application form. This should include a scaled map showing the location
of impervious areas and stormwater BMPs installed on the property. The map must identify which
portions of the impervious areas drain to which BMPs. Include arrows to show the general direction
of flow. While there are several ways to create an acceptable map, the easiest way is to draw a
map on square grid notebook paper as shown in the example on the following page.
The Property Map
The example map shown below is one that could be drawn on an 8'/" x 11" sheet of grid paper,
displaying a Stormwater BMP plan for a typical single family home. This map shows a rain garden
and two dry wells that treat the runoff from the roof of the house and part of the garage. Because
the rain garden is located away from the garage, a dry creek bed (usually a heavy plastic liner
covered with decorative rock) conveys water from a downspout to the rain garden. The
measurements on the map are the same as those used for all of the examples used in these
instructions. Refer back to the map example when completing the form.
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The Application Form
Section I — Contact & Account information
Provide the name, mailing address, telephone number and email address of the applicant. Include
the property address for the credit site and Property Identification Number (PIN). Also include
monthly utility bill account number and the amount of your current stormwater charges.
1 The Property Identification Number (PIN) can be found on the City's property information web site. Go to: httn:Nwww.d.minneaoolis.mn.ustorooertvinfo/ and follow
the instructions to search the site. Property ID Is the same as your PIN.
Section II - Measuring the impervious area on your property
To determine what portion of the property is impervious, measure (in S.F.) the building footprint,
any patios or decks, sidewalks (do not include public sidewalk along the street), garage or parking
areas, driveways or any hard surface. Enter the figures for each category, totaling in the
appropriate boxes.
Example:
Square feet home/building
910.0
Square feet patio/deck
Square feet sidewalk
144.0
Square feet garage
325.0
Square feet parking/driveway
195.0
Square feet other
Total square feet of impervious area
1,574.0
Measure all impervious areas; add them together to determine your property's total Impervious area.
1
To calculate the
total number of
square feet,
multiply the length
of any structure or
paved area on
your property by
its width. For
example, a 20' x
30' house would
have 600 square
feet of impervious
area (20' x 30' _
600 S.F.).
The figure of total impervious area on your property will be used to verify current information on the
account, calculating the percentage of your Stormwater Quality Credit.
Section III - Verify Current Stormwater Charges
The monthly charge for stormwater accounts is listed in terms of Equivalent Stormwater Units, or
ESU. An ESU is equal to 1,530 S.F. of impervious area, which is the average total impervious
square footage on a single family lot in Minneapolis. To determine the initial ESU rate for your
account, the City used data from Hennepin County and Minneapolis Assessor's offices. This data
contained data on the total lot size, ground -floor building square footage, garage size and other
improvements on the property. These records may not reflect current property conditions, such as
recent driveway or sidewalk additions. A current total is needed to verify the correct level of charges
and to calculate and apply the credit. Use the total impervious area you recorded in Section ll to
verify the charges as shown below.
Single Family Homes:
Monthly bills for single family homes are divided into three rate groupings. If your property is a
single family home, find the grouping your impervious area belongs in the table below. Enter the
ESU and monthly charge figures for that group in the appropriate boxes in Section III on the form:
Group 1: Less than 1,485 S.F.
0.75 ESU
$8.96 per month
Group 2: 1,486 to 1,585 S.F.
1.00 ESU
$11.94 per month
Group 3: 1,586 S.F. or more
1.25 ESU
$14.93 per month
Example: Using the figure of 1,574 S.F. from the example for Section 11-1,574 is more than 1,485,
but less than 1,585, so a single family home with 1,574 S.F. of impervious area would fit in Group 2,
resulting in a rate of 1.0 ESU and charges of $11.94 per month.
For all other properties
For all properties other than single family homes, including duplexes & apartments, divide the total
impervious area by 1,530 according to the chart in Section III to determine the ESU rate and
monthly charges for your account.
Example: For a small business or apartment building with 3,577.5 S.F. of impervious area — 3,577.5
divided by 1,530 = 2.34, resulting in a rate of 2.34 ESU and charges of $27.94 per month.'
In 2015, the monthly charge for Stormwater Utility fees is $11.94 per ESU, so a small business with 2,295 S.F. of impervious area would be charged for 1.5 ESUs or
$17.91 per month (2,295 divided by 1,530 = 1.5 or 1.5 ESU).
Section IV - Stormwater BMPs & Treated Areas
The table for Section IV is similar to the table in Section II for total impervious areas. However,
there is an additional column to list the stormwater BMPs you have installed for the credit. In this
table, only list the portion of your impervious areas that drain to your Stormwater BMP_
Example: Using figures for a site with 1,574 total impervious area as used in the example map.
Impervious Areas
Square Feet
Stormwater BMPs
Square feet home/building
860
Rain Garden — Dry wells
Square feet patio/deck
Square feet sidewalk
Square feet garage
163
Rain Garden
Square feet parking/driveway
Square feet other
Total square feet of impervious area
1,023
Section V - Calculate the Percentage of Impervious Area Treated
To fill the Section V table, divide the total area draining to Stormwater BMPs from Section IV by the
figure for total impervious area from Section III. This will give you the percentage of impervious
area treated by Stormwater BMPs.
Example: Divide the 1,023 S.F. in treated impervious area by 1,574 S.F. total impervious area.
This equals 0.6499, which equals 65%. Enter these figures in the table for Section V as shown
below.
Total areas draining to
BMPs (from Step IV)
1 023 S.F.
Divided by total
impervious area
(from Step III)
1 5774 S.F.
Equals % of impervious area
treated for quality
0.6499 = 65%
Section VI - Calculating Percentage Reduction in Stormwater Utility Fees
Since the Stormwater Quality Credit equals 50% of the fee for the area treated by Stormwater
BMPs, divide the percentage of treated impervious area by 50% to calculate the percent reduction
in monthly Stormwater Utility Fees.
Example: 65% divided by 50% equals 32.5 %. Enter these figures in the table as shown below.
Percent of impervious area
treated for quality
65%
Divided by 50% equals
percent reduction in
stormwater utility fee
0.325 = 32.5%
Section VII - Ratepayer Certification
The purpose of this section is to certify that the Stormwater BMPs have been properly installed and
to grant City of Minneapolis inspectors the right to enter the property for verification. Sign and date
the completed Stormwater Quality Credit Application. Mail the application to the address shown on
page. If you need further assistance, please contact Stormwater Utility Administration at 612-673-
2965.
F
City .eft la. .
Application for Stormwater Quality Credit
Materials required to complete application
Check when
attached
Materials Required for Application to be Processed
Completed and signed application must include:
• Current account information
• Calculations for your site's pervious and impervious areas
Property map:
• Map must be to scale
• Map must show impervious area
• Map must indicate how stormwater drains to stormwater BMP
Submit Applications to:
This application must be completed and signed before it will be processed. When completed, send
application and all attachments to:
City of Minneapolis Stormwater Credits
Room 300, 309 Second Ave S
Minneapolis, MN 55401-2238
If you have questions, please call: Stormwater Utility Office (612) 673-2766
I - Contact & Account Information
Property Owner Name
Mailing Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Home/Personal Phone
Work Phone
Email Address
Property Address
Street Address
City, State, ZIP Code
Property Identification Number (PIN)
Utility Account Number
Current Monthly Stormwater Charge
II - Measure the impervious area on your property
Determine what portion of this property is impervious area (see instruction guide for definition).
Square feet homelbuilding
Square feet patio/deck
Square feet sidewalk
Square feet garage
Square feet parking/driveway
Square feet other
Total square feet of impervious area
ill - Verify the Current Stormwater Charges
Fill out the table below to verify the current stormwater charges for your property.
Total Impervious Area
(from Step II)
Divided by 1,530
(See note for single family homes)
Times $11.94
= S.F.
= ESU
=
$
per month
Note: Single family homes are divided into three classes for Equivalent Stormwater Units (ESU). If
property is a Single Family Home, use the following figures to enter the ESU in the table above.
Single family homes:
• If less than 1,485 total impervious S.F. - enter .75 for ESU
• If 1,485 to 1,585 total impervious S.F. -* enter 1.00 for ESU
• If more than 1,585 total impervious S.F. 4 enter 1.25 for ESU
All other properties, calculate the ESU according to the table instructions.
IV - Stormwater Management Tools/Practices (Stormwater BMPs)
Fill out the table below to calculate the amount of impervious area that drains to a stormwater
management tool/practice (see instruction guide for a list of tools and practices).
Impervious Areas
Square Feet
Stormwater BMPs
Square feet home/building
Square feet patio/deck
Square feet sidewalk
Square feet garage
Square feet parking/driveway
Square feet other
Total square feet of impervious area
V - Section V. Calculate the Percentage of Impervious Area Treated
Calculate the percentage of the impervious area that drains to your stormwater management
tools/practices. See instruction guide for more details.
Total areas draining to BMPs
(from Step IV )
Divided by total impervious
area (from Step III)
Equals % of impervious area
treated for quality
VI - Calculate Percentage Reduction in Property's Stormwater Utility Fee
Calculate the percentage of the impervious area that drains to your stormwater management
tools/practices. See instruction guide for more details.
% of impervious area treated for
quality
Divided by 2
Equals % reduction/credit in property's
stormwater utility fee
VII. Ratepayer Certification
By signing this application, I certify that 1 am the owner or authorized representative of the owner
and have read this application and understand the terms and conditions of the credit program. l
certify this application and additional materials accurately describe stormwater management and
disposal on the property identified on this application. 1 grant the City of Minneapolis permission to
enter this property for the sole purpose of conducting a site inspection of the stormwater
management and disposal facilities on this property.
Signature
Print Name
Date