Frequently Asked Questions

Print Feedback

Font Size: + -

FAQs

How can I help?

The success of the program to address water quality by reducing pollution will greatly depend upon the involvement of citizens like you. The best way to make a difference is to become informed about the programs in the area and then to actively participate. The City will be providing more information on the steps you can take in your business, home or school.

Protecting our stormwater quality is everyone's responsibility. Water is a precious resource we must protect. Spotting and reporting pollution, preventing pollution by recycling, and properly disposing of household chemicals are simple things everyone of all ages can do to protect our stormwater and our community.
Why do I have to pay when I do not have any drainage problems?

Everyone in the City benefits from the Stormwater Management Program. If stormwater runs off your property, the City must have a program and funding to manage the increase in runoff and pollutants. Direct benefits may include complying with Federal and State mandates, protecting your property from upstream runoff, protecting property downstream from your runoff, providing safe roadways, educating our children about pollution, and improving water quality.
How are non-residential or multi-family property fees determined?

To determine the annual fee, divide the total impervious area by 2,000 square feet (or one Equivalent Rate Unit) to obtain the number of ERUs and multiply by the rate. The minimum Utility fee for any developed property is never less than one ERU.

Impervious areas were determined by analyzing aerial photographs to identify the amount of impervious surfaces on each property.
How are residential property fees determined?

Each single-family residential dwelling unit is billed based on the measurement of building footprint, garage, driveway, and other features that interrupt the natural absorption of stormwater into the ground. Multi-family dwellings and all non-residential properties will be billed at a rate based on their impervious area as well. For each 2,000 square feet of imperviousness found on the property, a fee of $7.35 a month will be charged.
Are tax-exempt properties also exempt from the stormwater fee?

No, because it is a fee--not a tax. Taxes are based on the value of the property. The stormwater fee is assessed based on how much the property contributes to the amount of stormwater runoff from the property from the amount of hard or impervious surface on the property.
When will the stormwater fee take effect?

The Stormwater Advisory Committee's recommendations were formalized in an ordinance adopted in December 2002. Stormwater fees will be added to the Greenville Utilities Commission (GUC) utility bill as a separate line item and be sent out starting in July 2003.
How was the stormwater fee established?

The stormwater fee is set by City Council based on a program of services developed in response to Federal and State water quality requirements as well as known stormwater quantity problems such as maintenance and remedial repair needs. The Citizen Advisory Committee assisted in identifying priorities for the program of services.
How was the City's Stormwater Management Program developed?

The program was developed after the City formed a Stormwater Advisory Committee consisting of Greenville citizens to address new water quality regulations, maintenance, and flooding issues. The Committee's recommendations included the development of a stormwater user fee where all developed properties in the City would pay to fund improved stormwater services. Once the Committee developed recommendations, the City started advising homeowners and other property owners of the plans to create a Utility specifically to address stormwater issues and charge a monthly fee for the improved services.
I have a drainage problem in my yard. Who do I call to get help with this problem?

You can call the City of Greenville Public Works Department at 329-4522. If the problem is a City responsibility, we will investigate your concern and advise you of what action can be taken.
Why is the Stormwater Management Program not funded by tax revenues?
The Stormwater Management Utility fee is fairer than a tax based on the assessed value of the property because of the following:
- The fee is based on each property's actual demand for stormwater service as measured by how much hard surface is on the property (i.e., building, parking lot, garages, and similar surfaces).
- Each property, including tax-exempt properties, will pay this fee, which contributes a fair and equitable share towards the overall cost of the Stormwater Management Program.

More »