STORMWATER UTILITY FAQ

What is stormwater runoff?

Stormwater runoff is rainfall that drains off rooftops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, streets, and other surfaces that prohibit rainfall from soaking into the ground. It washes chemicals, debris, trash, and other pollutants into our drainage system, local creeks, and rivers.

What is the stormwater utility?

The stormwater utility is a monthly charge on your City of Thomasville utility bill for managing stormwater. Similar to a water or sewer bill, this fee helps fund the city’s stormwater system. This utility will only apply to customers within the city limits.

What does the City of Thomasville do with the stormwater utility fees it collects?

Funds are used for ditch cleaning, pipe repair, drainage improvements, and flood prevention projects across Thomasville.

How is the stormwater utility calculated?

It is based on the impervious area on your property. An impervious area is any surface that does not readily absorb water, including roofs, driveways, or sidewalks. Single family residential (SFR) calculations are listed below:

Are schools or churches exempt?

No. The fee is not a tax, so all developed properties pay it.

What if my property drains to the county or I don’t hae a storm drain?

All properties benefit from the city’s stormwater system, so all developed parcels pay the stormwater utility.

Who will be billed – the property owner or tenant?

In general, this fee will be applied to the customer’s utility bill, so whoever receives the utility bill will be responsible for the stormwater utility fee.

Are there any rebates or credits for stormwater charges?

Yes, visit thomasville.org/stormwater to view the credit manual and learn more about stormwater credits.

For additional questions, please contact (229) 227-7001.