About
Development and Stormwater Incentives are one-time financial, or other, incentives that’s goal is to increase the voluntary implementation of stormwater runoff reduction practices on new development or redevelopment.
Typically, development incentives are financial (fee discounts), but they can be other types of incentives too. For example: reduced permitting fees, reduced permitting times, tax credits, zoning exceptions, grants, recognition, rebate or get creative and include incentives specific to your community.
Depending on the community’s needs and goals, the incentives could incentivize the installation of all types of development or projects. Or, target specific types of development, locations, or practices by only incentivizing projects that meet the target goals. Incentivizing best practices can increase the number of practices installed.
When developing a development incentive program, be sure to include stakeholders (local agencies, developers, public, permitting department, city clerk, etc.) in the creation of the program in order to ensure buy-in and future participation because they were able to provide input.
Project Examples
The City of Chicago encourages sustainable building design, construction and renovation through their Green Permit Incentives program. By including green roofs, rainwater harvesting, and other “green” practices expedited permit processing, potential reduction in permit fees, and a priority review process to qualifying projects.
A project with 95% or more of impervious area disconnected from the stormwater system can qualify for a “fast track review process.” The stormwater management section review will be completed within 5 days, which provides time and cost savings. At no cost to the City incentive offering to the city, but provides big savings for the developer. More Info