Single Family Residential - HOA: Rainwater Redirection

The Stormwater Utility credit application period is now open through January 31, 2026. Note: This is the first year that recertification is required to continue receiving ongoing voluntary credits from the 2023–2024 application period.

For more detailed information, please refer to the Stormwater Credit Manual.

Definition: Rainwater Redirection Systems are underground and connect downspouts to well designed and maintained underground pipes to redirect rainwater from roof gutters. These pipes redirect rainwater from impermeable surfaces to stormwater management features that promote infiltration.

The primary goal is to manage stormwater more effectively by promoting soil absorption rather than direct discharge from gutters towards adjacent properties, other impervious surfaces and/or the main storm sewer system.

Guidelines:  There are no County specifications for rainwater redirection systems, however they must be properly installed and easily verifiable. Follow the manufacturer/vendor guidelines and instructions for installation. 

French Drain: Length of perforated pipe placed underground in gravel and line with permeable drainage fabric.

Dry well: An underground reservoir filled with stone and lined on the sides (not the bottom) with permeable drainage fabric.

Eligible Systems: French drains and Dry wells

Ineligible Systems: Popup drains (not part of a French drain or dry well system) which simply release downspout runoff without any storage component.

Existing or New: Both are eligible if installed on HOA property

Annual or Ongoing credit: Ongoing

Percent Credit: 5% 

Please note: You will only receive a single 5% credit for this action if you have one or more rainwater collection or redirection system on your property.

Minimum: At least (1) one downspout must connect to an eligible rainwater redirection system

Frequency of re-certification: Every two years

Documents	Additional Information
Photos of the installed system(s) Before photos if newly installed If pre-existing, provide the documentation denoted with*
Materials receipts or contractor invoices Drawing indicating the system location(s), connected roof area, and impervious area it serves * Written explanation where pipes direct the water (e.g., to swales or other stormwater features) *
Credit Re-certification
Recent close-up photo of downspout connections Homeowner certifies systems are properly inspected and function properly.

Tips to guide your work for best results: 

• Using permeable drainage fabric is a critical specification to follow. 
• These systems should be installed at least 10’ away from your foundation. 
• The location of these systems should follow guidelines to limit impacts to adjacent properties and/or public sidewalks. Learn more: www.arlingtonva.us/Government/Programs/Water-Utilities/Sewer/Property-Drainage 
• Additional installation information: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/soil-water-conservation/drainage-problem-control-runoff/

Tips for success:

• If new, take installation progress and completion photos. Take a photo of the pre-existing connection, connected to the downspout.
• To ensure your underground system functions properly:
  • Regularly inspect and clean the entrances to your underground pipes.
  • Check for any blockages or damage within the pipe system.
  • Maintain areas where water is discharged (like swales) according to best practices.
• Provide proof of installation (receipts/invoices), system specifications, and a proper site plan detailing where the French drains are going from the gutters and location of dry wells.
• Due to these systems not being visible, we may require more detailed documentation/frequent inspections to verify they continue to function as intended.

Typical reasons for denial of re-certification: Proper documentation is not provided. Failure to certify the rainwater redirection facilities have been inspected and work as designed.