Stormwater Rates and Credits 

Stormwater Rates

The stormwater rate system bills properties based on usage of the storm water system, as represented by impervious area. Impervious surfaces do not absorb water. Examples of impervious areas include roofs, pavement, sidewalks, patios, and gravel or crushed stone surfaces.

How is stormwater usage measured by impervious area?

A computer analysis of infrared aerial photographs is able to distinguish hard, impervious surfaces in contrast to areas that can absorb stormwater, such as lawns and gardens. The computer program assigns the residential property into one of four billing tiers to more equitably distribute costs proportional to use instead of using a flat fee.  Homes with larger impervious areas pay more. You can review your property's stormwater assessment online and, if desired, submit an appeal (see below).

What are the current stormwater rates?

Single and two-family residential properties are placed in one of the following four rate tiers, depending on the square footage of impervious area. 

Commercial and other properties (e.g., multi-family, office, institutional, and industrial land uses) are billed directly on the impervious areas at a rate of $314.68 per acre per quarter, plus a $6.77 customer charge per quarter.  

 How do I view my stormwater assessment online? 

1. Link to your water utility bill online stormwater information through "My Property" on the city's home page, "Living in" section
2. Type in your address 

The property image will show the impervious area analysis for the property you have requested. This analysis has primarily been done with a computer, so some errors may have occurred. The following are pervious materials might be interpreted by the computer as impervious: 

• Wood chips
• Areas in shadows

How do I submit an appeal?

If you have reason to believe that the impervious area has been incorrectly identified, please take the following steps:

1. Print the document
2. Identify the areas that have been incorrectly identified as impervious (contrasting pen or highlighter works best)
3. Mail the document to:
   
   City of Ann Arbor – Stormwater
   Box 8647
   Ann Arbor, MI  48107-8647

We will review your revision, and return the results of the analysis to you. 

Stormwater Credits

You can take advantage of credits to lower your storm water bill.

Please remember that if you are a one or two-family residential property, you will need to reduce your impervious area by an amount sufficient to enter a lower tier. For example, if you are currently at 4,775 square feet, you will need to lower your impervious area by 600 square feet (to 4,175) in order to enter a lower tier. 

• Residential (One and Two-Family) Credits
• Commercial Stormwater Credits

Stormwater Credit Events

Updated May 5, 2010