R-22-131 1 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
STORMWATER UTILITY CREDIT PROGRAM MANUAL
Photo credit to James Patteson
03
Introduction
04
City Of Fairfax Stormwater
Utility (SWU) Fee
05
Stormwater Utility
Credit Program
06
SWU Credits –
Structural Practices
CONTENTS
10
SWU Credits –
Non-Structural Practices
12
Maximum SWU
Credit Calculation
13
SWU Credits –
Resources To Get Started
14
Appendix
15
Glossary
3CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
INTRODUCTION
MANAGING STORMWATER
PROACTIVELY
Managing stormwater (the rain or snow that falls to the ground)
in a proactive way, is an important way the City protects its
environment, which, in turn, enhances the quality of life for the
City’s residents and businesses, and ensures the City complies
with all stormwater laws. The City’s stormwater management
program must accomplish all this amidst increasing volumes of
stormwater from more intense and frequent rain events.
Stormwater can easily soak into the ground in areas with
abundant grass and trees and fewer structures. However, in
the built areas with extensive hard (impervious) surfaces such
as parking lots, sidewalks, roads, and buildings, stormwater
is prevented from soaking into the ground and instead flows
rapidly over the land. As a result, more developed (urban)
land areas have more stormwater to deal with, which can lead
to flooding. Urban stormwater also picks up pollutants, such
as sediment, oils/grease, fertilizers, pet waste, and litter as it
runs over the land surface. These pollutants are carried by
stormwater to storm drains and channels, which eventually
drain to local streams and the Chesapeake Bay.
Photo credit to James Patteson
4 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
The City’s stormwater management program requires an
ongoing, dedicated, and adequate funding stream that allows
the City to implement a robust and proactive program. In 2020,
the City’s Department of Public Works explored the feasibility
of implementing a Stormwater Utility (SWU) to meet the City’s
stormwater program needs. At the conclusion of the study in
2021, Department staff received further direction from City
Council to develop the basic framework of a SWU to consider
for implementation.
The City developed the SWU program to provide a stable,
adequate, flexible, and equitable source of stormwater
management funding, which replaces the City’s previous Storm
Fund, which was allocated from the City’s real estate tax rate.
Chapter 102, Article V establishes local ordinance authority for
the SWU fee. The SWU creates a dedicated source of funding
to meet long-term stormwater management needs.
WHAT IS A SWU FEE?
A SWU fee equitably distributes the cost of the City’s stormwater
management services across eligible properties based on the
amount of impervious cover they contain. Hard surfaces that
do not easily absorb water, such as rooftops, driveways, and
parking lots, are considered impervious cover. The City’s SWU
development process included a comprehensive review of the
City’s stormwater service needs, and the SWU fee rates were
developed around the costs necessary to support the City’s
ongoing stormwater management programming.
How Is The SWU Fee Calculated?
The City developed a simple fee structure that applies to each
CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER UTILITY FEE
eligible property, both residential and non-residential. Every
500 square feet of impervious cover a property contains equals
one SWU Billing Unit (BU). Each property’s impervious cover
has been evaluated using the City’s most recent geographic
information system (GIS) data for impervious cover on each
parcel to establish how many BUs to assign to each property.
The total number of BUs for each property assessed has been
rounded down to the nearest whole BU to accommodate
potential data resolution issues. The fee per BU is set each year
by the City Council as part of the annual budget development
process. All properties assessed a SWU fee in the City are
assessed using the same methodology at the same rate, and
the SWU fee is added as a separate line item to the City’s real
estate tax bill.
Who Has To Pay The SWU Fee?
The SWU fee is assessed on every eligible property in the City.
All properties, both residential and non-residential, with at least
500 square feet of impervious cover, are assessed a SWU fee.
The City’s SWU fee is assessed to both taxed and untaxed
properties, unless the property is specifically exempted by
Virginia law.
What If I Have Additional Questions About The SWU Fee?
Please contact the City of Fairfax Stormwater Utility with
any questions by phone at 703-385-2578 or by e-mail at
stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov. A list of Frequently Asked
Questions (FAQs) is also available at https://www.fairfaxva.
gov/government/public-works/stormwater-and-floodplain-
management/stormwater-information/stormwater-utility-
program.
5CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
The City recognizes that certain stormwater management
practices reduce the impact that a property’s stormwater
has on the City’s stormwater infrastructure and waterways.
Property owners that install and maintain stormwater facilities
(Best Management Practices, BMPs) that reduce the amount
of stormwater, reduce the amount of pollution carried in
stormwater, or otherwise limit the impact of stormwater from
their property, can qualify to receive a reduction in their SWU
fee. This is known as a SWU Credit.
A complete copy of the Code of Virginia sections governing
these concepts is included in the Appendix to this manual.
SWU CREDIT PROGRAM
All SWU Credit Applications, along with any
questions, may be directed to:
City of Fairfax Stormwater Utility
Department of Public Works
10455 Armstrong Street
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Phone: (703) 385-2578
E-mail: stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.govAPPLYING FOR A SWU CREDIT
Any property owner in the City that is assessed a SWU
fee is eligible to apply for a SWU Credit. Property owners
must complete the SWU Credit Application and provide the
necessary documentation for the practice or activity associated
with the credit(s) being claimed. Any documentation that is
required is listed on the SWU Credit Application by activity or
practice. The SWU Credit Application Form, and any additional
documentation needed are included in this manual in the
Appendix, along with example calculation worksheets for all
available SWU Credit types.
When Are SWU Credit Applications Due?
All SWU Credit Application materials must be completed and
submitted to the Department of Public Works no later than
October 1 each year for evaluation and calculation in the
coming year’s SWU Fee assessment. The City bills the SWU
Fee on its Real Estate Tax bill that is distributed to City property
owners twice a year, in May and November, with payments due
in June and December each year, respectively.
How Long Are The SWU Credits Applicable?
The SWU Credits for Structural Practices apply for three years.
The SWU Credits based on Non-Structural Practices apply for
between one and three years depending on the practice. The
credit duration and renewal schedule for each Non-Structural
Practice is listed at the conclusion of each creditable practice
description and in the example section of this manual. Credits
are applied in the billing year following application approval.
Photo credit to James Patteson
6 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
SWU CREDITS – STRUCTURAL PRACTICES
PRACTICES EVOLVING
WITH THE COMMUNITY
Stormwater regulations have evolved over time, and many
development projects were required to install stormwater
management facilities, commonly referred to as Best
Management Practices (BMPs), to meet water quality or
quantity requirements that existed at the time of development.
Early BMPs (pre-2014) are referred to as “Legacy BMPs”.
They include a variety of stormwater ponds and underground
detention vaults designed to capture, detain (or retain), and
release stormwater from developments and subdivisions.
Some Legacy BMPs treat stormwater runoff from more than
just the property on which the BMP is located (offsite drainage).
Virginia amended its stormwater management law and
regulations in 2014 to better align with the Commonwealth’s
goals for Chesapeake Bay restoration and water quality
protection. Along with the new regulations, the menu of
stormwater BMPs constructed in the City expanded, with many
newer facilities designed for individual lot runoff, as opposed
to larger facilities. All BMPs constructed in 2014 and later are
referred to as “New BMPs” and include bio-retention cells/
rain gardens, manufactured devices, and infiltration systems.
The various structural stormwater BMPs that can be used to
meet development requirements are defined in the Virginia
Stormwater BMP Clearinghouse, which is available online at
www.swbmp.vwrrc.vt.edu/.
All BMPs require routine maintenance to ensure they continue
to function as designed. Property owners that maintain their
own stormwater BMPs and provide documentation of that
maintenance are eligible for a SWU Credit, as outlined below.
Legacy Stormwater Management Facilities
The City offers a SWU Credit up to 20% for Legacy stormwater
facilities, based on the percentage of the subject property
(parcel) that drains to the facility being considered.
New Stormwater Management Facilities
The City offers a SWU Credit up to 30% for New stormwater
facilities, based on the percentage of the property that drains
to the facility.
New Facilities – Voluntary Installation
A new stormwater management facility or BMP that was designed
and installed voluntarily (facilities designed and installed
to Virginia Stormwater BMP Clearinghouse Specifications,
and consistent with the Virginia Runoff Reduction Method
calculations for stormwater quality and quantity management,
but not to meet development/redevelopment requirements) for
which the property owner provides maintenance service, are
eligible for SWU Credit up to 35%, based on the percentage
of the property that drains to the facility. Voluntarily installed
facilities require the owner to conduct an inspection and submit
condition assessment reports to the City annually to maintain
the credit.
Treatment Of Stormwater That Drains From Off Site
If a stormwater facility (BMP) is put in place as a Condition of
Development and treats or captures stormwater that runs on
to the property from off site, the City will provide up to a 10%
additional credit. Applicants seeking this credit must document
the improved water quality calculations.
If a stormwater facility (BMP) is created voluntarily, and it treats
or captures stormwater that runs on to the property from off
site, the City will provide up to a 15% additional credit.
Community Associations and Homeowner’s Associations
For stormwater facilities that are owned and/or maintained by a
community association or homeowner’s association (HOA), the
association may apply for SWU credit, calculated consistently
with the methodology described above, with any resulting
SWU Credits applied to the association’s/HOA’s properties that
generate the SWU fee, along with any affiliated credits from
offsite drainage, as applicable. The community association or
HOA SWU Credit Application must demonstrate the facility’s
drainage area and any associated documentation.
In all cases, the applicant must either provide a copy of the
stormwater management facility maintenance agreement
that runs with the property or, if the facility does not have an
affiliated maintenance agreement, the applicant must be willing
to execute a maintenance agreement on the facility that shall
run in perpetuity with the property and be recorded in the City
Circuit Court Clerk’s Office.
All structural stormwater utility Credits are granted for a
three-year period once proper documentation has been
received and applications have been approved by the
Department of Public Works.
The City also reminds property owners interested in adding
or amending a structural stormwater BMP to contact Virginia
811 to identify and mark any underground utility lines before
digging. More information on this service is available online
at www.va811.com.
7CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
STRUCTURAL STORMWATER BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS)
BMP STATUS MAX CREDIT AVAILABLE CREDIT PERIOD/INTERVAL
Legacy - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 20%3 years
Legacy - Voluntary Up to 30%3 years
Legacy - Offsite Drainage Up to 10% in addition 3 years
New - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 30%3 years
New - Voluntary Up to 35%3 years
New - Offsite Drainage Up to 15% in addition 3 years
CITY OF FAIRFAX SWU CREDIT PROGRAM QUICK REFERENCE TABLE
Photo credit to James Patteson
8 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
SWU CREDITS – NON-STRUCTURAL PRACTICES
City property owners may apply for SWU Credits for Non-
Structural Practices. These include activities related to the way
you might fertilize your lawn, whether you plant trees, if you do
anything to protect the areas next to streams on your property,
if you remove invasive species of vegetation, or if you help the
city mark its storm drains program.
NUTRIENT (FERTILIZER)
MANAGEMENT PLAN
DEVELOPMENT
A nutrient management plan refers to applying the precise
amount of fertilizer at the right time and in the right place to
assure optimal plant growth while minimizing the amount of
fertilizer that runs off into streams. Any property owner that
has a nutrient management plan developed by a Virginia
certified nutrient management planner, and implements that
plan on their property, is eligible for a SWU Credit of up to 10%,
based on the percentage of the parcel covered by the nutrient
management plan.
Please note: The Nutrient Management Plan Development &
Implementation credit is not available for properties that have
developed a Nutrient Management Plan required by a state
stormwater permit condition.
An approved nutrient management plan qualifies the
property owner for SWU Credit for a period of three years.
At the conclusion of the three-year period, the property
owner may apply to renew their credit by demonstrating
either development of an updated plan, or documenting the
continued implementation of an existing plan.
For more information on nutrient management plans,
please visit the Virginia Department of Conservation and
Recreation’s Urban Nutrient Management Planning website at
www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/urban-nutmgt.
Native species trees (those that are natural to this area in
Virginia) that are planted on developed land that result in
an increase in tree canopy (cover) have been recognized
by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) as a
stormwater Best Management Practice (BMP). Expanding our
tree canopy enables the City to earn pollutant reduction credits
for protection of the Chesapeake Bay.
How To Earn Credits For Tree Planting
SWU Credits are available for planting sets of trees based on
the owner’s parcel size. A tree set is defined as five trees, each
at least one inch in diameter at breast height (DBH), planted
at least 12 feet apart. A tree’s diameter at your breast or chest
height is the most common tree measurement made on a tree
by tree professionals. It is also called “DBH” for short. Property
owners may apply for a SWU Credit equivalent to one Billing
Unit (BU) per tree set, up to a maximum of three Billing Units
for three tree sets per acre of total parcel size. For parcels less
than one acre, owners may apply for up to three tree sets, for a
maximum of three BU credits. For properties greater than one
acre, property owners can apply for additional credits at the
same rate, up to three tree sets per acre for up to three Billing
Unit credits per acre of property, with the same “round up”
policy for all parcels as they go up in size.
For example, a parcel that is 1.4 acres would be eligible for a
maximum of six tree sets (five trees per set, each planted 12
feet apart), and six Billing Units of credit, depending on the final
number of tree sets planted.
Photo credit to James Patteson
Photo credit to James Patteson
9CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
URBAN TREE CANOPY EXPANSION
(TREE PLANTING)
Planting Trees In A Resource Protection Area (RPA)
In addition to the tree planting opportunities mentioned,
Virginia DEQ recognizes the value of restoring native trees in a
Resource Protection Area (RPA) to meet the City’s Chesapeake
Bay pollutant reduction goals. An RPA is a buffer area that
extends 100 feet from each bank of a stream that is intended
to remain in an undisturbed natural condition. RPA restoration
is even more valuable than simple tree planting because it is
in a streamside location. Similarly, the City can get credits for
the nutrient reduction into the Bay that the RPA restoration
generates.
The credit for planting trees in an RPA is the same as defined
above, along with a “no mow” zone established from the
outermost tree dripline or canopy edge.
The City provides an enhanced credit opportunity for tree
planting in an RPA, with a potential credit of four Billing Units
of SWU Credit for every tree set planted in an RPA, regardless
of parcel size.
Tree Planting Requirements For SWU Credit
To receive a SWU Credit for any new tree plantings,
applicants must plant tree species native to the northern
Virginia region. A list of native tree species can be
found through the Virginia Department of Conservation
and Recreation’s (DCR’s) Native Plant Finder online
(www.dcr.virginia.gov/natural-heritage/native-plants-finder).
The DCR Coastal Plain region brochure applies to the City of
Fairfax and offers a quick review of native tree species for the
region. It is included as an Appendix to this manual.
Once a credit for tree planting has been approved, and the
property owner continues to maintain the set of trees, the
property owner will have that SWU Credit for two years. At
the conclusion of the two-year period, the property owner
may apply to renew this credit by providing proof of ongoing
care and maintenance of the original tree plantings that first
generated the credit, or through replacement of any previously
trees that were planted in the intervening period.
For property owners that would like to plant trees to apply for
this SWU Credit, please contact Virginia 811 before digging to
avoid underground utility lines. For additional information, go
to www.va811.com.
NO FERTILIZER PLEDGE
Property owners that pledge to not use fertilizer can earn a
5% SWU Credit. Under this No Fertilizer pledge, the property
owner pledges that 1) A dense cover of grass or conservation
landscaping is maintained throughout the pledge period, and
2) No fertilizers are used throughout the No Fertilizer Pledge
period. The No Fertilizer Pledge is effective for one year and
renewable on an annual basis. At the conclusion of one year,
the property owner may apply to renew this credit by submitting
a new SWU Credit Application.
Example of Native Tree Planting in RPA
WHY CHOOSE AND
USE NATIVE PLANTS?
Visit www.chesapeakebay.net/action/howtotips/article/
how_to_choose_and_use_native_plants for more
information on why choosing and using native plants can
increase wildlife habitat in your yard.
Photo credit to James Patteson
10 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
ADOPT-A-STREAM LITTER
CLEAN-UP AND INVASIVE SPECIES
REMOVAL PROGRAM
The Adopt-A-Stream Litter Clean-Up and Invasive Species
Removal Program provides a SWU Credit for hosting up
to three stream valley clean up events per year. Property
owners interested in applying for this credit may contact the
Department of Public Works to identify a stream segment to
adopt. Property owners or nonprofits or other entities hosting
the event would then coordinate participation, including
providing volunteer participants with appropriate liability
waivers, documenting the date of the event, and providing
photo documentation and approximate volume of litter or
trash, and invasive plants removed in exchange for a SWU
Credit. A credit of 1% can be earned for every two volunteer
hours spent at the event. A maximum of a 15% credit can be
earned for 30 or more volunteer hours. In addition, Public
Works can fabricate and install a City Adopt-A-Stream sign
recognizing the organization’s contribution to the stormwater
program. The sign will be installed in proximity to the assigned
stream segment after three consecutive stream cleanup and/or
invasive removal activities.
Organizers can contact the Department of Public Works prior to
the scheduled event to arrange for pickup and disposal of the
litter and plants collected. Public Works can also provide high
visibility vests and gloves for volunteers.
Example: A non-profit group organizes and facilitates three litter
pick-up events for an assigned stream segment throughout the
year, in accordance with its SWU Credit Application, provides
the necessary documentation, and volunteers a total of at
least 30 hours of litter or invasive plant species removal for
each of the three events (30 people for one hour, or 10 people
for 3 hours, etc.). This earns them a 45% SWU Credit for its
billed properties (maximum of 15% credit per event times three
events).
Up to three approved Adopt-A-Stream Litter Cleanup and
Invasive Species Removal Events can be used to qualify
for SWU Credit for a period of one year. Interested property
owners may apply for this credit annually.
STORM DRAIN MARKING,
MONITORING, AND LITTER PICK
UP PROGRAM
The City contains numerous storm drains that transport
stormwater from streets, yards, and parking lots to the City’s
stormwater system, and ultimately to our streams. The City
offers the opportunity for applicants to earn a SWU Credit
for their property by volunteering to place a “Only Rain/
Chesapeake Bay” decal on City storm drain inlets contained in
a public right-of-way or on inlets on their own property. These
markers help build awareness about the ultimate destination
of stormwater that travels through the stormwater system
and the impact that individuals can have on the quality of the
stormwater managed by the system. In addition, for drains
that already have a marker, volunteers can verify its condition,
replace a damaged marker, and pick up any litter in proximity to
the storm drain to prevent it from washing downstream in a rain
event. Volunteers are also asked to look for any signs of illegal
dumping in the storm drains (e.g., unusual staining, odors, etc.),
and report any findings to the Department of Public Works.
The Department of Public Works maintains an inventory of areas
which are priority areas for marker placement or monitoring.
An owner/group representative would coordinate participation,
including providing participants with appropriate liability
waivers, documenting the date of the event, and providing
photo documentation in exchange for a SWU Credit equal to
1% for every two hours of volunteer time, up to a maximum of
15% per marking event.
The owner/group representative can also contact the
Department of Public Works to schedule a pickup of collected
litter. Public Works will provide the storm drain decals and the
supplies to affix them to the storm drains, and can also provide
high visibility vests and gloves for volunteers.
Property owners may apply for up to three Storm Drain
Marking, Monitoring, and Litter Pickup events per year. These
events qualify the applying property owner for SWU Credit for
a period of one year. Interested property owners may apply for
this credit annually.
11CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
NON-STRUCTURAL STORMWATER BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS)
BMP / ACTIVITY MAX CREDIT AVAILABLE CREDIT PERIOD/INTERVAL
No Fertilizer Pledge Flat 5%1 year
Nutrient Management Planning Up to 10% 3 years
Tree Canopy Expansion 1 BU/Tree Set (3 max/acre)2 years
Tree Canopy Expansion in RPA 4 BU/Tree Set (no max)2 years
Adopt-A-Stream Litter/Invasives Up to 15%/event (3 max/yr)1 year
Storm Drain Marking/Litter Pick Up Up to 15%/event (3 max/yr)1 year
CITY OF FAIRFAX SWU CREDIT PROGRAM QUICK REFERENCE TABLE
Photo credit to James Patteson
12 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
Property owners and organizations may apply for multiple
credits for their respective properties from the menu of
available SWU Credits available, and SWU Credits may be
earned cumulatively, with no set maximum percentage, except
that regardless of how many credits a property owns per year,
each property will be charged at least one billing unit per year.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How Do I Figure Out Drainage Areas For My BMP?
The City’s Department of Public Works can assist applicants
with obtaining plans and records for specific facilities, including
design and construction dates, drainage area of the facility, and
the status of any Maintenance Agreement for the facility.
What Kind Of Trees Can I Plant And
What Are Invasive Species?
Applicants can plant native tree species that meet the specified
trunk diameter size and tree spacing criteria for the Tree Canopy
Expansion credits. For additional guidance, please refer to the
Tree Canopy Expansion Requirements for SWU Credit section
of this manual on page 9.
Invasive species include non-native plants that tend to grow
aggressively, damage existing ecosystems, and prove very
difficult to remove once they have rooted. A more complete
definition can be found in the Glossary of this manual. Property
owners may contact the City’s Urban Forestry program through
the Department of Public Works at (703) 385-7810 for additional
information on invasive species management.
How Do I Find Out If My Property Is In The
Resource Protection Area (RPA)?
Applicants can find the boundaries of the RPAs throughout the
City through this interactive mapping application here: www.
fairfaxva.gov/government/information-technology/online-
mapping
Alternatively, applicants can contact the City Department
of Public Works to find out if a property contains any RPA
designation.
MAXIMUM SWU CREDIT CALCULATION
Property owners and organizations may apply for multiple credits for their respective properties from the menu of available SWU
Credits available, and SWU Credits may be earned cumulatively, with no set maximum percentage, except that regardless of how many
credits a property owns per year, each property will be charged at least one billing unit per year.
How Long Does My SWU Credit Last?
All approved Structural Practice SWU Credits are good for
three years. Approved Non-Structural Practice SWU Credits
are good for one to three years depending on the practice. At
the conclusion of each credit period, applicants may apply to
renew their respective SWU Credits through the Department
of Public Works.
Where Do I Take The Trash and Invasive Plants Removed
During An Adopt-A-Stream Or Storm Drain Clean-Up?
Organizers may contact the Department of Public Works
prior to an event to schedule a pickup location and date at
703-385-2578.
What If I See Something I Want To Report
While Out In The Community?
Participants in the activities listed above can also help the
City’s stormwater management program by helping the City
identify any potential stormwater management issues. If you
see a problem with drainage infrastructure, erosion, or illegal
dumping into a storm drain, please contact the Department of
Public Works at 703-385-7810.
SWU CREDITS – RESOURCES TO GET STARTED
Photo credit to James Patteson
13CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR HELP?
Applicants for any of the SWU Credits listed above may contact the City of
Fairfax Department of Public Works (listed below) for assistance with the Credit
Application process.
City of Fairfax Stormwater Utility
Department of Public Works
10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Phone: (703) 385-2578
E-mail: stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov
Photo credit to James Patteson
14 CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
APPENDIX
Virginia Code Sections for SWU Fee Waivers & Options
(Code of Virginia §15.2-2114 C, D & E)
C. A locality adopting such a system shall provide for full waivers of charges to the following:
1. A federal, state, or local government, or public entity, that holds a permit to discharge stormwater from a municipal separate storm sewer system, except that the waiver of charges shall apply only to property covered by any such permit; and
2. Public roads and street rights-of-way that are owned and maintained by state or local agencies, including property rights-of-way acquired through the acquisitions process.
D. A locality adopting such a system shall provide for full or partial waivers of charges to any person who installs, operates, and maintains a stormwater management facility that achieves a permanent reduction in stormwater flow or pollutant loadings or other such other facility, system, or practice whereby stormwater runoff produced by the property is retained and treated on site in accordance with a stormwater management plan approved pursuant to Chapter 3.1 (§ 62.1-44.2 et seq.) of Title 62.1. The locality shall base the amount of the waiver in part on the percentage reduction in stormwater flow or pollutant loadings, or both, from pre-installation to post-installation of the facility. No locality shall provide a waiver to any person who does not obtain a stormwater permit from the Department of Environmental Quality when such permit is required by statute or regulation.
E. A locality adopting such a system may provide for full or partial waivers of charges to cemeteries, property owned or operated by the locality administering the program, and public or private entities that implement or participate in strategies, techniques, or programs that reduce stormwater flow or pollutant loadings, or decrease the cost of maintaining or operating the public stormwater management system. Stormwater Utility (SWU) Credit: Full or partial waiver of charges to any person who installs, operates, and maintains a stormwater management facility that achieves a permanent reduction in stormwater flow or pollutant loadings as defined by City Code Section 102-205.
15CITY OF FAIRFAX STORMWATER CREDIT MANUAL
GLOSSARY
Best Management Practice (BMP): A schedule of activities, prohibitions or practices, maintenance procedures, and other management practices, including both structural and non-structural practices, to prevent or reduce the pollution of surface water and groundwater systems.
Best Management Practice (BMP) Facilities Operation and Maintenance Agreement: A legally recorded document that acts as a property deed restriction, and which provides for the long-term maintenance of stormwater management practices.
Billing Unit: 500 square feet of impervious area. (see also Impervious Area definition)
Condition of Development: A stormwater management facility and/or BMP that was required to be designed and constructed/installed in order for a development/re-development project to comply with the City’s land development regulations.
Detention Facility: A system which provides temporary storage of stormwater runoff with a designed release of the stored runoff over time to manage the discharge volume, rate, and/or velocity.
Director: The director of the City Department of Public Works or the director’s authorized representative.Impervious Area: As defined in City Code Section 102-202, an area covered by hard surfaces such as structures, paving, compacted gravel, concrete, or other manmade features that prevent, restrict, or impede the downward passage of stormwater into the underlying soil.
Inspection: An onsite review of compliance with a city permit, the city’s stormwater management program, and any applicable design criteria, or an onsite review to obtain information or conduct surveys or investigations necessary in the enforcement of the Stormwater Utility ordinance.
Invasive Plant Species: Non-native plant species that pose a threat to native ecological and economic systems, including forests, native grasslands, wetlands, and waterways. A list provided by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is attached in this Appendix.
Non-Residential Property: Non-residential properties include all properties not considered residential properties (as defined below), such as commercial or industrial properties, apartment buildings, and non-profit or faith-based properties.
Owner or Property Owner: The owner or owners of the freehold of the premises or lesser estate therein, a mortgagee or vendee in possession, assignee of rents, receiver, executor, trustee, lessee or other person, firm, or corporation in control of a property. Residential Property: Residential properties include condominiums, townhomes, and detached single family homes.
Stormwater: precipitation that is discharged across the land surface or through conveyances to one or more waterways and that may include stormwater runoff, snow melt runoff, and surface runoff and drainage.
Stormwater Management Facility: A structural control measure that controls stormwater runoff and changes the characteristics of that runoff including, but not limited to, the quantity and quality, the period of release, or the velocity of flow. A stormwater management facility is a type of best management practice. A Legacy stormwater management facility includes the menu of facilities in place prior to July 1, 2014. A New stormwater management facility includes the menu of facilities put in place after July 1, 2014 that are included in the Virginia Stormwater BMP Clearinghouse and consistent with the Virginia Runoff Reduction Method calculations for stormwater quality and quantity management.
Stormwater Quality BMP: A BMP that treats stormwater runoff from an impervious surface by affecting the chemical, physical, and/or biological characteristics of stormwater runoff.
Stormwater Utility (SWU) Fee: A stable, equitable source of funding for the City of Fairfax’s Stormwater Management Program. Funds will be used to meet State and Federal stormwater mandates, provide dedicated funding to meet pollution reduction mandates, operate and maintain the stormwater infrastructure, and maintain the City’s flood infrastructure and flood management program. All property owners in the City contributing to stormwater runoff, including businesses, homeowners, state and federal government, and non-profit organizations (unless exempted by Virginia Code) are subject to the fee.
16 GLOSSARY
Department of Public Works
City of Fairfax, Virginia
10455 Armstrong Street
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-2578
stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 1
Stormwater Utility Credit Application Forms
Effective July 1, 2022
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Stormwater Utility
10455 Armstrong Street
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-2578
stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 2
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Structural Practices
Applicant Information Lookup Necessary Property Information at http://realestate.fairfaxva.gov
Property Address / SWU Fee: __________________________________________________ / $___________________
Total Lot Size (Acres): ______________________________________________________________________________
Owner / Applicant Name: ___________________________________________________________________________
Phone Number: ___________________________________________________________________________________
E-Mail Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________
Documentation & Certifications (please check each box and sign; digital signatures are acceptable)
I certify that the information provided in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge,
and that the facility(ies) are functioning as designed as of the date of this application.
The owner/applicant has or will execute and record a Stormwater Facility Maintenance Agreement with
the City.
____________________________________________ / _____________________________________
Applicant Signature Date
Facility #1:_____________________________
Please provide as much of the following information as possible:
1) When was the SWM facility constructed? _______________
2) Was the SWM Facility constructed as a:
Condition of Development or Voluntarily (Check one)
3) Does the SWM Facility treat any area beyond the
parcel where it is located?
Yes / No / Don’t Know (Check one)
Documentation Required:
• Photo of the SWM facility showing
current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing its location on the
property.
Facility #2:_____________________________
Please provide as much of the following information as possible:
1) When was the SWM facility constructed? _______________
2) Was the SWM Facility constructed as a:
Condition of Development or Voluntarily (Check one)
3) Does the SWM Facility treat any area beyond the
parcel where it is located?
Yes / No / Don’t Know (Check one)
Documentation Required:
• Photo of the SWM facility showing
current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing its location on the
property.
Facility #3:_____________________________
Please provide as much of the following information as possible:
1) When was the SWM facility constructed? _______________
2) Was the SWM Facility constructed as a:
Condition of Development or Voluntarily (Check one)
3) Does the SWM Facility treat any area beyond the
parcel where it is located?
Yes / No / Don’t Know (Check one)
Documentation Required:
• Photo of the SWM facility showing
current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing its location on the
property.
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 3
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Structural Practices Calculation
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________ / $______________________
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): _____________________________ / ___________________________________
Facility #1, City Facility ID:_____________________________
Check All That Apply Required Documentation
Legacy SWM Facility (installed before 7/1/14)
New SWM Facility (installed after 7/1/14)
SWM Facility was/is a Condition of Development
SWM Facility installed Voluntarily
SWM Facility treats Offsite Drainage
• Review the applicant-submitted photo of the SWM
Facility showing the current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing the location when calculating the
SWU credit.
Facility #1:
Use the appropriate designation(s) for Facility #1 from the table above
Facility Treated Area (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size (above) = (1)_______________%
Facility Treated Area Offsite (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size = (2)_______________%
Multiple Lines (1) and (2) (as applicable) by the max credit available by circled category above to determine % reduc-
tion for SWU Fee Credit, enter calculation here: ___________________%
Acres Acres
Acres Acres
BMP Status Max Credit Available Credit Period/Interval
Legacy - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 20%3 years
Legacy - Voluntary Up to 30%3 years
Legacy - Offsite Drainage Up to 10% in addition 3 years
New - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 30%3 years
New - Voluntary Up to 35%3 years
New - Offsite Drainage Up to 15% in addition 3 years
Structural Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)
SWU Credit Calculation
Enter Parcel SWU Fee (A): $____________________
Total eligible SWU Fee Credit reduction (Total %age from facilities) (B): %____________________
*SWU Fee Credit [SWU Fee (A) x Total %age (B)]: $____________________
*Note: SWU Fee cannot be reduced below 1 Billing Unit, regardless of credit eligibility and/or calculation.
To be completed by the City
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 4
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Structural Practices Calculation
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________ / $______________________
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): _____________________________ / ___________________________________
Facility #2, City Facility ID:_____________________________
Check All That Apply Required Documentation
Legacy SWM Facility (installed before 7/1/14)
New SWM Facility (installed after 7/1/14)
SWM Facility was/is a Condition of Development
SWM Facility installed Voluntarily
SWM Facility treats Offsite Drainage
• Review the applicant-submitted photo of the SWM
Facility showing the current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing the location when calculating the
SWU credit.
Facility #2:
Use the appropriate designation(s) for Facility #1 from the table above
Facility Treated Area (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size (above) = (1)_______________%
Facility Treated Area Offsite (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size = (2)_______________%
Multiple Lines (1) and (2) (as applicable) by the max credit available by circled category above to determine % reduc-
tion for SWU Fee Credit, enter calculation here: ___________________%
Acres Acres
Acres Acres
BMP Status Max Credit Available Credit Period/Interval
Legacy - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 20%3 years
Legacy - Voluntary Up to 30%3 years
Legacy - Offsite Drainage Up to 10% in addition 3 years
New - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 30%3 years
New - Voluntary Up to 35%3 years
New - Offsite Drainage Up to 15% in addition 3 years
Structural Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)
SWU Credit Calculation
Enter Parcel SWU Fee (A): $____________________
Total eligible SWU Fee Credit reduction (Total %age from facilities) (B): %____________________
*SWU Fee Credit [SWU Fee (A) x Total %age (B)]: $____________________
*Note: SWU Fee cannot be reduced below 1 Billing Unit, regardless of credit eligibility and/or calculation.
To be completed by the City
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 5
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Structural Practices Calculation
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________ / $______________________
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): _____________________________ / ___________________________________
Facility #3, City Facility ID:_____________________________
Check All That Apply Required Documentation
Legacy SWM Facility (installed before 7/1/14)
New SWM Facility (installed after 7/1/14)
SWM Facility was/is a Condition of Development
SWM Facility installed Voluntarily
SWM Facility treats Offsite Drainage
• Review the applicant-submitted photo of the SWM
Facility showing the current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing the location when calculating the
SWU credit.
Facility #3:
Use the appropriate designation(s) for Facility #1 from the table above
Facility Treated Area (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size (above) = (1)_______________%
Facility Treated Area Offsite (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size = (2)_______________%
Multiple Lines (1) and (2) (as applicable) by the max credit available by circled category above to determine % reduc-
tion for SWU Fee Credit, enter calculation here: ___________________%
Acres Acres
Acres Acres
BMP Status Max Credit Available Credit Period/Interval
Legacy - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 20%3 years
Legacy - Voluntary Up to 30%3 years
Legacy - Offsite Drainage Up to 10% in addition 3 years
New - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 30%3 years
New - Voluntary Up to 35%3 years
New - Offsite Drainage Up to 15% in addition 3 years
Structural Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)
SWU Credit Calculation
Enter Parcel SWU Fee (A): $____________________
Total eligible SWU Fee Credit reduction (Total %age from facilities) (B): %____________________
*SWU Fee Credit [SWU Fee (A) x Total %age (B)]: $____________________
*Note: SWU Fee cannot be reduced below 1 Billing Unit, regardless of credit eligibility and/or calculation.
To be completed by the City
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 6
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Structural Practices Calculation
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________ / $______________________
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): _____________________________ / ___________________________________
Facility #1, City Facility ID:_____________________________
Check All That Apply Required Documentation
Legacy SWM Facility (installed before 7/1/14)
New SWM Facility (installed after 7/1/14)
SWM Facility was/is a Condition of Development
SWM Facility installed Voluntarily
SWM Facility treats Offsite Drainage
•Review the applicant-submitted photo of the SWM
Facility showing the current condition and a sketch/
drawing showing the location when calculating the
SWU credit.
Facility #1:
Use the appropriate designation(s) for Facility #1 from the table above
Facility Treated Area (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size (above)= (1)_______________%
Facility Treated Area Offsite (acres): ÷ Total Lot Size = (2)_______________%
Multiple Lines (1) and (2) (as applicable) by the max credit available by circled category above to determine % reduc-
tion for SWU Fee Credit, enter calculation here: ___________________%
Acres Acres
Acres Acres
BMP Status Max Credit Available Credit Period/Interval
Legacy - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 20%3 years
Legacy - Voluntary Up to 30%3 years
Legacy - Offsite Drainage Up to 10% in addition 3 years
New - Condition of Dev (COD)Up to 30%3 years
New - Voluntary Up to 35%3 years
New - Offsite Drainage Up to 15% in addition 3 years
Structural Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs)
SWU Credit Calculation
Enter Parcel SWU Fee (A): $____________________
Total eligible SWU Fee Credit reduction (Total %age from facilities) (B): %____________________
*SWU Fee Credit [SWU Fee (A) x Total %age (B)]: $____________________
*Note: SWU Fee cannot be reduced below 1 Billing Unit, regardless of credit eligibility and/or calculation.
To be completed by the City
Example Calculation Worksheet
456 Stormwater Street, Fairfax, VA 22030 518.40
23A-0456-00-A 2.4 acres
0278##
X
X
X
2.4
2.4
1.2
1.2
50
50
50% (.5) x 20% (.2) = 10% (.1)
50% (.5) x 10% (.1) = 5% (.05)15
518.40
15
77.76
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 1
Stormwater Utility Credit Application Forms
Effective July 1, 2022
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Stormwater Utility
10455 Armstrong Street
Fairfax, VA 22030
(703) 385-2578
stormwaterutility@fairfaxva.gov
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 2
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Non-Structural Practices
Applicant Information Lookup Necessary Property Information at http://realestate.fairfaxva.gov
Property Address / SWU Fee: __________________________________________________ / $___________________
Total Lot Size (acres): ______________________________________________________________________________
Owner / Applicant Name: ___________________________________________________________________________
Phone Number: ___________________________________________________________________________________
E-Mail Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________
Documentation & Certifications
I certify that the information provided in this application is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge,
and that the activities listed above have been completed as of the date of this application.
____________________________________________ / _____________________________________
Applicant Signature Date
Check All That Apply ____
No Fertilizer Pledge (5%)
Nutrient Management Plan (up to 10%)
Urban Tree Canopy Expansion – Owner (1 BU per
tree set, up to 3 sets/acre)
Urban Tree Canopy Expansion—Owner, RPA (4
BUs per tree set, no limit)
Volunteer Events
Adopt-A-Stream Litter & Invasives Clean Up (1%
fee credit for every 2 volunteer hours, up to 15%
per event, up to 3 events per year)
Adopt-A-Drain Marking and Litter Clean Up (1%
fee credit for every 2 volunteer hours, up to 15%
per event, up to 3 events per year)
Documentation Required ____________
I pledge to maintain a dense turf cover and/or conservation
landscaping without the use of chemical fertilizers for 1 year.
Provide a copy of the Nutrient Management Plan and enter the
percentage of the property covered by the Plan: ______%
Provide a copy of a receipt from a nursery/vendor and a photo
of the trees planted. Insert the # of tree sets planted: _______
Provide a copy of a receipt from a nursery/vendor and a photo
of the trees planted. Insert the # of tree sets planted: _______
Applicant’s Responsibility for Volunteer Events:
Provide the City with the following:
• the Sign-in sheet(s) for event;
• A signed liability waiver sheet for each participant on the
Sign-in sheet(s);
• The total number of volunteer hours donated for each
event;
• Date stamped digital photos of each event;
• Applicant contact for litter/debris/invasive pick-up
City’s Responsibility for Volunteer Events:
The City will provide trash bags, gloves, and safety vests
(Adopt-A-Stream) or drain markers, adhesive, training on how
to apply the markers, and safety vests (Adopt-A-Drain) for par-
ticipants and will pick up removed litter/debris/invasives as
planned with event organizer.
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 3
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Non-Structural Calculations
SWU Credit Calculation for Non-Structural Activity(ies) / Practice(s)
______ No Fertilizer Pledge (5%)
______ Nutrient Management Plan (enter % fee credit, up to 10%)
______ Urban Tree Canopy Expansion —Owner’s Property (enter # of BUs eligible for credit, up to 3 per acre)
______ Urban Tree Canopy Expansion—Owner’s Property in the RPA (enter # of BUs eligible for credit, no limit)
______ Adopt-A-Stream Litter and Invasive Species Clean-Up (enter total number of volunteer hours/event, 1%
credit for every 2 hours volunteered per event, 15% max per event, up to 3 events per year)
Event #1: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #2: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #3: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
______ Adopt-A-Drain Marking and Litter Clean-Up (enter total number of volunteer hours/event, 1% credit for
every 2 hours volunteered per event, 15% max per event, up to 3 events per year)
Event #1: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #2: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #3: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
______ Enter the total number of BUs eligible for tree set placement credit.
______ Enter the total SWU fee credit percentage calculated above.
1) Property’s Original SWU Fee: $_____________
2) SWU Fee with Credited BU reductions for tree sets: $_____________
3) Multiply eligible %age by Line 2 above, Revised SWU Fee: $_____________
To be completed by the City
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): __________________________________ / ____________________________
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________ / $_____________________
Revised 3/31/2022 Page 4
City of Fairfax, Virginia
Department of Public Works
Application Form for Stormwater Utility Credits—Non-Structural Calculations
SWU Credit Calculation for Non-Structural Activity(ies) / Practice(s)
______ No Fertilizer Pledge (5%)
______ Nutrient Management Plan (enter % fee credit, up to 10%)
______ Urban Tree Canopy Expansion —Owner’s Property (enter # of BUs eligible for credit, up to 3 per acre)
______ Urban Tree Canopy Expansion—Owner’s Property in the RPA (enter # of BUs eligible for credit, no limit)
______ Adopt-A-Stream Litter and Invasive Species Clean-Up (enter total number of volunteer hours/event, 1%
credit for every 2 hours volunteered per event, 15% max per event, up to 3 events per year)
Event #1: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #2: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #3: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
______ Adopt-A-Drain Marking and Litter Clean-Up (enter total number of volunteer hours/event, 1% credit for
every 2 hours volunteered per event, 15% max per event, up to 3 events per year)
Event #1: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #2: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
Event #3: _________ / _________ / _________%
Date Vol. Hours Credit%
______ Enter the total number of BUs eligible for tree set placement credit.
______ Enter the total SWU fee credit percentage calculated above.
1) Property’s Original SWU Fee:$_____________
2) SWU Fee with Credited BU reductions for tree sets:$_____________
3) Multiply eligible %age by Line 2 above, Revised SWU Fee: $_____________
EXAMPLE CALCULATION SHEET
To be completed by the City
Tax Parcel / Total Parcel Area (acres): __________________________________ / ____________________________
Property Address / SWU Fee: _______________________________________________/ $_____________________789 Stormwater Avenue, Fairfax, VA 22030 288.00
57-2-9999-3463A 1.0
5%
1
15%
4/30/22 30 15
(10 Billing Units)
(1 Billing Unit Fee Reduction)
($259.20 x .2 = $51.84, subtract from
line 2)
1
20%
288.00
259.20
207.36