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1. What is stormwater?

Stormwater is a term used to describe water from precipitation events. Stormwater that does not soak into the ground becomes surface runoff which flows into the waterways either directly or through stormwater pipes and outlets. Stormwater runoff usually contains pollutants and ends up untreated in our local waterways.

2. Why is stormwater runoff important?

Stormwater runoff is one of the leading causes of water pollution in the United States. Stormwater will pick up dirt, trash, oil, grease, pet waste, chemicals, and any other pollutant as it flows over roads and lawns.

Stormwater runoff does NOT go to a wastewater treatment plant before entering our recreational or drinking waters. It is transported by drains, streets, and gutters directly into our rivers, ocean, and the Chesapeake Bay.

3. Why do I have to pay a Storm Water fee?

The City must comply with state and federal water quality regulations. The Storm Water fee provides a dedicated funding source for these services which include installation and maintenance of storm drains and infrastructure, inlets and ditches, and pumping stations. It also covers state programs such as erosion and sediment control that are meant to protect the Chesapeake Bay.

4. How does the City handle stormwater runoff?

The Division of Environmental Storm Water uses multiple programs to fulfill its comprehensive mission of improving water quality and minimizing flooding, while complying with our federal and state permits.

• Best Management Practices (BMP) Inspection & Maintenance
• Capital Improvement Planning, Design & Construction
• Ditch Maintenance
• Environmental Investigation and Enforcement
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) mapping
• Structure & Pipe Repair and Cleaning
• Pump Station Maintenance
• Site Plan Review and Construction Inspections
• Street Sweeping
• City Vacant Lot and Dead-end Cleaning
• Public Education and Outreach