Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study

In 2020, the County commissioned a study to explore the feasibility of transitioning from the Sanitary District Tax to a stormwater user fee funding model, which has been done by many Virginia communities.

The May 2020 interim study provided an initial review of current stormwater funding methods, needs and levels; different types of funding mechanisms; and compared Arlington County with other localities in Virginia. The November 2020 final study provided a more detailed analysis of how a Stormwater Utility would affect different types of customers, examined different rate structures, and presented initial cost estimates for implementation and ongoing utility operation.

Following a work session in early 2022, the County engaged with the public and the Stormwater Utility Community Advisory Group for feedback to shape the implementation of the utility fee, which officially went live in 2024.

Need for Increased Investment

The rise in severe and devastating flooding in our area requires the County to increase its investments in our stormwater system. These investments will help maintain and upgrade our stormwater infrastructure to better protect the community. Staff have identified the types of significant investments required to ensure watershed scale stormwater system improvement. Given the complexity, scale, and scope of these investments, these initial capacity improvement projects will take place over at least the next 10 years. The County has significantly increased funding for the stormwater management program in the recently adopted Capital Improvement Plan. The County must also invest in water quality improvement projects required to meet the Chesapeake Bay requirements in the County’s stormwater permit.

About the Process

Phase 1: Research and Feasibility Analysis (2020 – 2021)

• May 2020: Interim Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study Report
• November 2020: Final Stormwater Utility Feasibility Study Report

Phase 2: Development and Implementation of a Stormwater Utility (2022 – 2023)

• Feb. 1, 2022: The County Board directed staff at a work session to move forward with the development and implementation of a Stormwater Utility. 
• Jan. 31, 2023: During a work session, the Board approved the rate structure and draft stormwater utility credit program and directed staff to delay implementation of the Stormwater Utility to 2024.
• April 22, 2023: The Board voted on a resolution to adopt the Stormwater Utility fee during the spring 2023 budget process.
• 2022 - 2023: The County engaged with customers from a broad and representative range of backgrounds and interests via online feedback forms, public forums, and other engagement methods. View a summary of the public engagement(PDF, 3MB) and additional materials below.