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Cities are adding storm water runoff charges to the water bills they send to businesses. Many new storm water fees are based on roof area and the entire surface area of paved surfaces.
Building owners can arrange to drain the water to the grass and green areas to reduce the storm water going to the storm sewer. Then, property owners can
challenge the city to reduce storm water charges.
Some other storm water reduction strategies are:
- Detention ponds that allow water to infiltrate the soil during rain events. They fill up quickly after a rainstorm and allow solids like sediment and litter to settle at the pond bottom. Then, they release the water slowly, recharging the soil.
- Using paver stones instead of concrete or asphalt for sidewalks and patios.
- Using rain barrels to capture rain water and use the water for irrigation during dry spells.
You can make a huge difference in storm water quality by:
- Mulching your grass clippings and leave them on the lawn.
- Sweeping dirt from your driveway and sidewalks onto the lawn.
- Picking up debris and putting it in the trash and picking up your pet waste and put it in the dumpster.
- Using fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and always following the suggested application rates.
- Never apply chemicals before it rains.
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Properly sized water meters have a lower failure rate, require less maintenance, and can save property owners thousands of dollars a year in utility costs.