Background
The Clean Water division is responsible for protecting and restoring water quality in streams, rivers and lakes throughout Clark County. To do this, we manage stormwater, which is the water that runs off of streets, parking lots, and buildings when it rains. Stormwater runoff is the number one way that pollution enters local waterways.
To manage stormwater runoff, the Clean Water division builds, operates, and maintains public drainage infrastructure to prevent flooding on roads and to remove harmful pollution before it enters rivers and lakes.
We also collect water quality data, provide education and outreach opportunities for schools and residents, and offer technical assistance to businesses and homeowners associations on how to take care of privately owned stormwater facilities to prevent pollution.
New services coming in 2024
Starting on August 1, 2024, Clark County has a new Phase I NPDES Municipal Stormwater Permit, which requires the county to implement various projects and programs to protect and restore water quality. To comply with new federal and state permit requirements, Clean Water is updating the services our team will provide from 2024 to 2029.
To financially support these new services, our team is conducting a Stormwater Rate Study to determine if Clark County’s existing rates need to change. The last time Clark County’s stormwater rates were increased was in 2015.
How does Clark County pay for Clean Water services?
Counties and cities throughout Washington typically use stormwater utility fees to help pay for stormwater services. Today, Clark County has the lowest stormwater rates compared to other NPDES permitted counties and cities in Western Washington.
Community Listening Sessions – Stormwater Rate Study
The Clean Water division hosted three Community Listening Sessions to hear what Clean Water services are most important to residents and ratepayers of Clark County. Our team was seeking public feedback on the draft stormwater rates we are proposing to Clark County Council for adoption.
We want to thank everyone who joined us in person and virtually on Sept. 11, Sept. 16 and Sept. 19. Slides shown during the listening session and other materials are below.
Listening Session Materials
Listening Session Recording: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LMDxhDPDo0
Presentation (PDF)
Mandated Services (PDF)
Recommended Services (PDF)
Additional Services (PDF)
How we compare (PDF)
Maintaining Public Stormwater Infrastructure (PDF)
Monitoring Water Quality (PDF)
Stormwater Asset Inventory (PDF)
Thomas East Wetland Photo Timeline (PDF)
Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
Maps
How is the clean water fee calculated?
Stormwater rates are calculated by determining the total cost to implement Clean Water services These stormwater rates are applied differently for single-family residential, multi-family residential, and non-residential lots. For residential lots, the stormwater rate is charged based on the number of housing units on the property.
For non-residential properties, including commercial properties, roads, and railroads, the stormwater rate is charged based on the quantity of hard surfaces on the property. Hard surfaces may include pavement, buildings, roofs, or graveled surfaces. Properties in rural areas of the county have lower Clean Water fees than properties in the urban growth area.
Where can I find my clean water fee?
To view your current Clean Water fee, go to the Property Information Center and enter your address or parcel number. Once you have identified your property, click on the Taxes tab and then click on Tax Statements. Open the first Tax Statement on the list and find the line-item charge for the Clean Water Program. This represents the annual Clean Water fee charged to your property. If you have questions about how fees are calculated, please contact Clean Water at 564.397.4345 or email cleanwater@clark.wa.gov.
How is my clean water fee billed?
Clean Water fees are included in annual property tax statements. Fees of more than $50 can be paid in two installments. Eligible seniors and persons with disabilities may qualify for fee reductions. For more information about property tax bill payments, contact the Treasurer’s Office at 564.397.2252.