Stormwater Fees

An equitable path to a sustainable wastewater system

Policy Brief

The San Francisco Public Utilities Commission's (SFPUC) current water and sewer rate structure covering fiscal years 2010 to 2014 is drawing to a close, and a new multi-year rate study is in progress. To create a more equitable system in which ratepayers become responsible for the impact their properties have on sewer infrastructure and the environment, SPUR has two recommendations:

  • The SFPUC should reallocate wastewater rates to include a stormwater fee beginning in the 2014 rate cycle. The fee may be based upon factors such as parcel size, impervious surface, and land use — options illustrated by case studies in this report.
  • The SFPUC should create an incentive program to support the installation of sustainable on-site stormwater management practices, to help customers reduce stormwater management fees and to create environmental benefits.