Why do we have a stormwater utility fee?

Georgetown County faces a number of stormwater problems: 

  • steadily increasing flooding and water pollution problems as the County grows; 
  • unfunded state and federal mandates to control these problems and meet standards; 
  • aging, deteriorating, and undersized system to handle stormwater; 
  • and competition for dollars with other County needs.

The County studied these problems and how they might be solved, and after looking at all the options for solving these problems, found that this was the best path. A stormwater fee is the most equitable revenue source to solve the County’s stormwater problems. The stormwater program will enable the County to comply with federal regulations as well as protect our community through improved drainage and protection of local waters. After studying the issue, the County Council passed an ordinance establishing the stormwater enterprise fund after three readings, on June 12th, 2007.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater?
2. Who benefits from a stormwater management program?
3. What is the Stormwater Ordinance?
4. What is the purpose of the Stormwater Design Manual?
5. What information do I have to submit to obtain a stormwater plan review?
6. What is a stormwater utility?
7. Why do we have a stormwater utility fee?
8. What other sources of revenue fund stormwater management?
9. Why is a stormwater utility the best solution to fund stormwater drainage needs?
10. Why can't the county's general fund pay for the needs?
11. How is a fee different from a tax?
12. What is an impervious surface?
13. Are gravel surfaces considered impervious surface?
14. I need my ditches cleaned, how do I make a request?
15. How do I know if I need to obtain a "Land Disturbance Permit" from the Georgetown County Stormwater Division?
16. What do I need to do if I want to develop property (Commercial, residential, subdivision, etc.) to ultimately receive a Georgetown County Land Disturbance Permit?
17. Do I need an encroachment permit? How can I apply for one?
18. How can citizens find out about drainage problems or drainage projects within the County?
19. Why can’t the County fix all of the drainage systems (ditches, pipes, swales, etc.) throughout the County?
20. Who can I contact for more information?