A Stormwater Fee is a fee for the service of providing conveyance of stormwater away from properties’
impervious surfaces into collection systems, natural drainage or waterways. Stormwater
fees are based on the contribution of stormwater to the city’s stormwater management
system, and represents the most equitable way for the community to share the cost
of the public service of stormwater management.
Stormwater fees provide a dedicated source of funding that does not compete with other
community priorities.
Stormwater management authority is given to the local governments by the National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Law. The utility fee concept for stormwater
financing is a growing mechanism for providing revenue for stormwater programs.
There are no rate methodology requirements in Missouri, and fee structures are at
the discretion of the city council boards. And, a stormwater utility is not required
to access a stormwater fee. Often, stormwater fees are integrated with wastewater
service fees.
The Missouri State Constitution’s Hancock Amendment is unclear about whether a stormwater
service fee requires voter approval. Recent case law suggests in Missouri voter approval
is required to access a stormwater fee.
Project Examples
Black and Veatch's Stormwater Utility Survey
92% of Black and Veatch’s 2018 Stormwater Utility Survey - survey respondents reported
using impervious area as basis for stormwater fees. Average monthly, single-family
rate has increased over the past few years and is $5.48 in 2018. 54% use a uniform
flat fee, but can also individually calculate or use a tiered rate.
Columbia, MO’s - average monthly residential charge is $2.25
Topeka, KS - $4.50
Lawrence, KS - $5.30
Wichita, KS – $3.50
Aurora, IL
One of the ways that the City of Aurora finances green infrastructure and stormwater
management projects is with a stormwater management fee, a $6.90 bimonthly charge
to each residential and business water and sewer service account.
Consult your community’s attorney and financial advisors prior to moving forward with
any of these funding options. Any reference in this website to any person, or organization,
or activities, products, or services related to such person or organization, or any
linkages from this website to the website of another party, do not constitute or imply
the endorsement, recommendation, or favoring of companies or organizations.
