The City of Alexandria is accepting applications for the Stormwater Utility (SWU) Fee Credit Program through February 15. Alexandria property owners can apply for a reduction of up to 50 percent on their 2025-2026 SWU fees. Since approved credits are applied for two (2) years, it is important that property owners who previously applied in 2023 reapply to continue getting credits to reduce the SWU Fee. Applicants that have installed additional eligible practices should include those in the reapplication. And of course, new applicants during the application window are always welcome.  

The SWU Fee, which is paid by all property owners as a separate line item on the real estate tax bill, is based on the amount of impervious area – or hard surfaces – on a property. The fee provides a dedicated funding source for the City’s stormwater management programs, including flood mitigation capital projects under Flood Action Alexandria, and operational activities including storm inlet and pipe cleaning.  

Property owners can apply for the SWU Fee Credit Program by installing and maintaining eligible stormwater management and flood mitigation practices on their property. 

There are more than 20 eligible practices that can help protect homes from flooding or improve the quality of stormwater entering local waterways. The full credit menu is available on the SWU Fee website. 

Approved credits are in effect for two years, after which property owners must reapply to receive a SWU Fee reduction. Returning applicants may use the same eligible practice from previous applications, as long as they are still maintained. Applicants can also include additional eligible practices that have been installed.  

Applications can be submitted by searching for the property on the City’s Real Estate webpage or submitting a hardcopy form. Applications will be accepted through February 15.   

More information is available on the SWU Fee website or by contacting stormwater@alexandriava.gov