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Newport News, VA Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

ERU rate
$147/year
Billing
2 installments (Dec, June)
Applies to
all developed property
Late interest
10% per year
Waivers
available for on-site BMPs

Summary

Newport News levies an annual stormwater management service charge on every developed parcel citywide, billed twice a year based on property type and impervious area.

For the fiscal year beginning on July 1, 1993 and ending on June 30, 1994 and for each and every fiscal year thereafter there shall be and hereby is levied an annual stormwater management service charge on all developed property in the City of Newport News.(b)For the purposes of determining the service charge, all properties in the city are classified into one (1) or more of the following classes:(1)Developed residential property;(2)Developed multifamily residential property;(3)Developed other property;(4)Developed mixed-use property; or(5)Undeveloped property.(c)The service charge for developed residential property shall equal the ERU rate multiplied by the number of dwelling units.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 81).

Full Breakdown

Every developed parcel in the city, residential, multifamily, commercial or mixed-use, is billed a service charge under City Code § 37.1-13, funding stormwater infrastructure, flood control and water-quality programs. Charges are calculated using an Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) rate of $147 per year (§ 37.1-14(c)), prorated monthly, and billed in two installments due each December and June. Owners may apply to the director of public works for adjustments or waivers tied to on-site stormwater controls, green area, or federal/state permit coverage.

Violations & Fines

Unpaid charges become delinquent, accrue 10% annual interest, and attach as a lien on the property with the same priority as unpaid real estate taxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Newport News charge a stormwater fee?
Yes. City Code § 37.1-13 levies an annual service charge on all developed property, billed at $147 per ERU per year (§ 37.1-14).
Can I get the fee reduced?
Yes, § 37.1-15 allows waivers or adjustments up to 25% for privately maintained stormwater controls, green area, or public drainage easements.

Sources & Official References

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