Stormwater Utility Charges – Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Stormwater?
Stormwater is any form of precipitation, such as rainfall or snowmelt, which accumulates and flows across developed and undeveloped surfaces. Stormwater that does not soak into the ground becomes surface runoff, which drains into either the storm sewer system or a surface water system like our arroyo and river channels.
What Is The Stormwater Utility Service Charge?
The stormwater utility service charge was established in 2003 as a dedicated and sustainable funding source for the operation, construction, and maintenance of stormwater facilities, stormwater system planning, and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
What are the rates?
The Residential Stormwater Utility Service Charge for all meters is: $5.00
The Commercial Stormwater Utility Service Charges are as follows:
| Meter Size | Stormwater Utility Service Charge |
|---|---|
| 5/8" | $5.50 |
| 3/4" | $8.25 |
| 1" | $13.75 |
| 1 1/2" | $27.50 |
| 2" | $44.00 |
| 3" | $85.00 |
| 4" | $137.50 |
| 6" | $275.00 |
| 8" | $440.00 |
Where is the money going?
- Improving drainage in flood-prone areas
- Improving the existing storm drain system
- Constructing new drainage systems
- Erosion control or restoration projects
- Stormwater public education
- Operations and maintenance of the municipal drainage system
- Meeting compliance regulations
- Water-quality testing
- The stormwater utility service charge funds will support the estimated $30 million worth of drainage improvements needed throughout the City.
- The City of Santa Fe has approximately:
- 1500 Inlets
- 600 Outfalls
- 1800 Culverts/Stormwater facilities
- 1000 street cleaning miles
- 80 miles of arroyo and channel
The funding can only be used for:
- I will have difficulty paying the additional amount. What can I do?
- The City of Santa Fe offers a low-income credit for residential refuse, sewer, stormwater, and water service charges. Credits are based on National Poverty Income limits published in the Federal Register.
- Those receiving assistance will roll over, so if you qualify now, you will continue to be assisted without additional paperwork.
- Customers may be exempt from monthly stormwater utility service charges if they meet the following:
- The customer is the head of the household residing in the residence being assessed
- The household's gross annual income does not exceed one hundred twenty percent (120%) of the most recent federal poverty guidelines.
- The customer shall submit documents required by city policy to verify income.
- Any person filing an affidavit requesting exemption of the charge consents to any reasonable investigation and substantiation by the City of the facts stated in the affidavit.