No runoff from stormwater drains off my property; why do I have to pay?

While some people believe that no stormwater runs off their property into the system (this may be true for smaller storm events), however, during larger storms this would be impossible. Also, water that soaks into the ground may still eventually enter groundwater or migrate into the stormwater system underground.

Additionally, we all use the City street system as drivers or recipients of goods and services. This network of impervious surfaces’ impact must be mitigated as well by us all collectively paying for its management. All residents within the Cañon City limits benefit from the repair and maintenance of the stormwater system and from capital projects which protect our community.

Remember that it is not only the quantity of stormwater the City is managing, but also the water quality of the runoff. The programs mandated by the City’s stormwater permit, and funded by the utility fee, help keep the runoff as clean as possible without actual active treatment, which benefits everyone.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater?
2. Why is it important to manage stormwater?
3. What services does the Stormwater Program provide?
4. What is the Stormwater Utility?
5. How much is the Stormwater Utility Fee?
6. What is Impervious Surface?
7. Who is assessed a stormwater utility fee?
8. What is the billing cycle?
9. Where is the Stormwater Utility Fee on my bill?
10. I believe the amount of impervious surface listed on my bill is incorrect. What can I do?
11. Why has the square footage of impervious area changed on my bill?
12. Is there a way to reduce my stormwater fee?
13. Why does my neighbor/friend pay more/less than I do?
14. No runoff from stormwater drains off my property; why do I have to pay?
15. Will using rain barrels to capture roof runoff reduce my Stormwater Utility Fee?
16. What is the size of the Stormwater Utility Service Area?
17. How much does the stormwater utility fee collect per year?
18. Is the stormwater utility fee tax deductible?
19. Who fixes clogged storm drains?
20. How are other communities addressing stormwater issues?
21. How can I learn more?
22. How is my impervious surface calculated?
23. How is a stormwater utility fee different from a tax?