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1. How is my utility service charge calculated?

The utilities’ rate structure is based upon the amount of impervious surface area within each parcel or equivalent service units (ESU). A service charge of $45 per ESU, per year shall be levied against each developed parcel within the service area. The following are examples of how ESUs are calculated and applied within the service area:

• Single family residence: 1 ESU
• Duplex: 1 ESU
• Tri-plex / Four-plex: 2 ESUs
• For all other parcels, the number of ESUs is equal to the total square feet of impervious surfaces divided by 2750 square feet. (2750 square feet is the approximate surface area of an average residential rooftop and driveway)
• No developed parcel shall contain less than 1 ESU
• Undeveloped parcels do not contain ESUs
• Douglas County and East Wenatchee pay for their impervious areas, including streets, roads, trails, and parking lots

Notes

1. Qualified low-income senior citizens and disabled persons may be eligible for a discount
2. In addition storm water facilities designed to accept runoff may be eligible to receive a storm water utility credit

2. Is washing my car at home prohibited?

You can continue to wash your car at home. Wash your car on the grass or a gravel area so the water can filter into the ground. Pour your soapy water out in an area where it can filter into the ground instead of down the storm drain. Do not discharge car wash water into the stormwater system including ditches and gutters. 

3. How do I report an illicit discharge?

An illicit discharge is anything that goes into a storm drain that is not 100% stormwater. If you see an illicit discharge, please report it to Douglas County Stormwater Utility at 509-886-3728.