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District of Columbia Statewide Rule

District of Columbia Stormwater Management and RiverSmart Rules

Some RestrictionsApplies statewide across District of Columbia (2026)

Key Facts

Enforcing agency
DOEE (Energy & Environment)
Governing code
D.C. Code Title 8, Subch. II
Grant program
RiverSmart / LID grants
Funding
Stormwater Enterprise Fund
Cost basis
Stormwater fee on water bill
Last verified: July 31, 2026

Summary

The DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) runs stormwater management under D.C. Official Code Title 8, funding LID retrofits and property-owner grants through the RiverSmart program and the Stormwater Permit Compliance Enterprise Fund.

The Mayor, in coordination with DC WASA, shall establish a grant program to provide Enterprise Funds for grants and direct services to property owners in the District to employ LID or stormwater best management practices.

Full Breakdown

DOEE administers the District's MS4 stormwater program through a Stormwater Administration and the Stormwater Permit Compliance Enterprise Fund. Under D.C. Official Code § 8-152.04, the Mayor, working with DC Water, must run a grant program giving property owners funds and direct services to install Low Impact Development (LID) and best management practices: implemented as RiverSmart Homes, Rewards, and Communities. Land-disturbing development is required to retain runoff on-site to LID standards, and every District property pays a stormwater fee on its DC Water bill supporting Clean Rivers and MS4 compliance.

Violations & Penalties

DOEE enforces MS4 permit and LID retention requirements against non-compliant development; the stormwater fee is a mandatory charge on District water bills and cannot be opted out of.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is RiverSmart?
RiverSmart is DOEE's grant and direct-service program, authorized by D.C. Code § 8-152.04, helping District property owners install Low Impact Development practices like rain gardens, trees, and permeable pavement to cut stormwater runoff.
Do DC residents pay a stormwater fee?
Yes. Every District property pays a stormwater fee on its DC Water bill, funding MS4 permit compliance and Clean Rivers work managed through DOEE's Stormwater Enterprise Fund.

Sources

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