What is stormwater?

Stormwater runoff is the water that flows over the ground as the result of rain, snow melt, hail and sleet. The following structures prevent the water from soaking into the ground:

  • Buildings
  • Driveways
  • Parking Lots
  • Patios
  • Sidewalks
  • Streets

These structures are referred to as impervious surfaces. Runoff is collected by storm sewer infrastructure such as inlets and pipes and ultimately transported to the Arkansas River. As water flows over the ground, it picks up everything in its path, such as sediment, oil, grease, litter and chemicals, taking it all to the river without treatment.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater?
2. Why is it important to manage stormwater?
3. What services does the Stormwater Program provide?
4. What is the Stormwater Utility?
5. How much is the Stormwater Utility Fee?
6. What is Impervious Surface?
7. Who is assessed a stormwater utility fee?
8. What is the billing cycle?
9. Where is the Stormwater Utility Fee on my bill?
10. I believe the amount of impervious surface listed on my bill is incorrect. What can I do?
11. Why has the square footage of impervious area changed on my bill?
12. Is there a way to reduce my stormwater fee?
13. Why does my neighbor/friend pay more/less than I do?
14. No runoff from stormwater drains off my property; why do I have to pay?
15. Will using rain barrels to capture roof runoff reduce my Stormwater Utility Fee?
16. What is the size of the Stormwater Utility Service Area?
17. How much does the stormwater utility fee collect per year?
18. Is the stormwater utility fee tax deductible?
19. Who fixes clogged storm drains?
20. How are other communities addressing stormwater issues?
21. How can I learn more?
22. How is my impervious surface calculated?
23. How is a stormwater utility fee different from a tax?