Stormwater runoff occurs when rain or melting snow flows across land and impervious surfaces like roofs, driveways, parking lots, streets, and other hard surfaces.  Because these impervious surfaces don't allow stormwater to soak into the ground, the runoff can cause flooding.  As it flows across the ground, stormwater runoff may pick up pollutants like grease, oil, pet waste, fertilizer, metals, and other pollutants before entering the City's storm drain system.  Stormwater is not treated, so the City's storm drains lead directly to local waterways, such as Taylor Run, Four Mile Run, Strawberry Run, Timber Branch, Hooffs Run, Holmes Run, Backlick Run, Cameron Run, and ultimately, the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay.  Unless stormwater is first treated, the pollution picked up by the stormwater runoff enters our waterways.  Stormwater pollution and flooding harms our environment, pets and wildlife, and can damage property.  

You may request an adjustment to the fee if there is an error on your bill. Appeals are due June 15th within 30 days of billing.  

Pay your stormwater utility fee even if you’ve submitted an appeal, because payments are applied first to fees, then to any prior period outstanding balance. This may cause late payment penalty and interest to the assessed on the current tax and fees, if the total due is not paid by the respective due date of the real estate property tax bill.

Once you’ve submitted an appeal, the City will review and make a determination upon the receipt of a complete application, including any additional information requested by the City. If a petition to adjust your fee is approved, you will receive a revised bill or payment credit.  There are two ways to apply for a appeal. 

• Submit an appeal through the Real Estate Website. 

• Download the printable appeal form. 

If you have any questions, please contact Stormwater@alexandriava.gov