“Stormwater” is a form of water that we all deal with regularly: rain, hail, snow and everything else that falls from the sky as precipitation. As soon as it hits the ground, it either gets absorbed, or it flows directly into our local rivers, lakes, and streams. Too much stormwater can cause problems, such as flooding, erosion, and pollutant transport. Stormwater controls can be installed in many places but the best place to manage stormwater is the spot on which it lands.
The Stormwater Best Management Practices Rebate Program provides an incentive for private property owners to install stormwater best management practices on their property. These practices help enhance the water quality of stormwater runoff, decrease the amount of stormwater runoff that ends up in the storm drainage system, and/or repurpose the energy and nutrients of stormwater for healthier soils and landscaping. The City will reimburse property owners 50% of the total cost of their project, with a reimbursement limit of $2000, provided the project and property owner meets the requirements of the program, listed below.
For those living outside the City of Des Moines, follow Polk Soil and Water Conservation District's #RainCampaign for information about stormwater management programs available across the metro area. Additional information can also be found through the Iowa Stormwater Education Partnership.
Why Should I Apply For The Program?
- Every property is different, but every property can most likely benefit from the installation of a stormwater best management practice. There is almost always a project that will work for your property, no matter how big or small.
- You don’t have to install a large basin or a excavate your backyard in order to qualify for our program – even the installation of a rain barrel could make a difference!
- Some projects end up paying for themselves over time. For instance, a Soil Quality Restoration (SQR) dramatically limits your lawn’s need for nutrients, fertilizer, and water. Not only could you spend less on lawn maintenance, but you could also save on your water bill!
What Qualifying Work Is Best For My Yard?
Don't know what is best for you and your yard? Email stormwater@dmgov.org and we will help you decide.
How Do I Apply?
- Complete an application.
- Attach a detailed project description, including maps if necessary
- Attach project estimate
- Mail with Attention to Clean Water Program to 3000 Vandalia Rd; Des Moines, IA 50317 or email to stormwater@dmgov.org
How Will I Be Paid?
- Send in final documentation, including IRS W-9 form, paid invoice, and photos of the completed project.
- Payments will be issued by check, which should arrive 2-4 weeks after the payment is approved.
Terms for Eligibility
- Stormwater Best Management Practices (BMP) shall meet design criteria in the Iowa Storm Water Management Manual or other applicable design guidance approved by the Director of Public Works.
- Stormwater BMPs required for subdivisions and new developments are not eligible for rebate.
- Stormwater BMPs for which the property owner seeks reimbursement from other sources of City funding are not eligible for rebate.
- Must be one of the improvements (Best Management Practices) listed as qualifying work above.
- Work cannot proceed until the application has been pre-approved by City.
- After work is completed, additional documentation will be required including receipts or itemized contractor's invoice, proof of payment, and W-9 federal tax form.
- Subsidy will be for 50% of the reasonable total cost of materials and labor up to $2,000.
- The account for the stormwater management fee charges on the property must be current as to the payments at the time of application.
- Application must be received by June 1, 2023.
- Rebate program eligibility expires on June 30, 2023.
- A property that has received the maximum rebate amount is not eligible for additional rebates under this program, regardless of a change in ownership or use, until at least 10 years have passed since issuance of the prior rebate.
- A Stormwater Best Management Practices Rebate Application must be completed.