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311 - Stormwater Compliance

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1. What is the service area for stormwater billing?

A "threshold" level of service is needed countywide, but a higher level of service is needed in the urban and suburban areas. At this time, the utility's service area encompasses only those unincorporated urban and suburban areas where the immediate needs are greatest. The County will continue to pay for the threshold level of service from general tax revenues.

This map (PDF) shows the "Service Area" that has been defined as the utility service area. Generally, it encompasses Martinez and Evans within the Reed Creek, Jones Creek, Betty's Branch, and Euchee Creek watersheds. This area has been most severely impacted by recent urban and suburban development.

2. What is the billing period for my stormwater bill?

Stormwater has three different billings per year, depending on the amount of the bill.

Important information concerning your Semi-Annually Stormwater bill. Semi-Annually Stormwater bills are for the months of January to June and July to December.

Important information concerning your Annual Stormwater bills. Annual Stormwater bills are for the months of October to September.

If you have any questions regarding your Stormwater bill, please contact our office at 706-447-7645 or by email at Customer Service.

Pay your Stormwater Bill.

3. Can I obtain flood insurance if I am not in a flood zone ?

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a federal program enabling property owners in participating communities to purchase flood insurance on eligible buildings and contents, whether they are in or out of a floodplain. Columbia County participates in the NFIP, making federally backed flood insurance available to its property owners. For more information, please visit the Floodplain Management page.

4. How can I protect myself and my property from flood hazards?

The National Weather Service, along with the Columbia County Emergency Management Agency, provides flood warning and evacuation data to local radio and television stations. When a flood threatens, evacuations may be ordered in areas expected to flood. Residents must be prepared to move to a place of safety. Columbia County Emergency Management will announce emergency shelter locations. For more information, please visit the Floodplain Management page.

5. Is my property located in a flood zone?

To view the Floodplain map, visit the Floodplain Management page.

6. What is a floodplain and how does it function?

Floodplains are the low, flat lands adjacent to streams, rivers, and lakes that flood frequently. They are considered part of a healthy stream and are designed to hold in flood waters, as well as support a variety of natural resources and provide natural flood and erosion control.

7. What can I do to prevent water pollution?

To prevent water pollution, here are some helpful tips: When using household cleaners, use those labeled non-toxic! Store chemicals in covered areas to protect them from rainfall. Dispose of paints and solvents at a hazardous waste collection center. Wash your car at a local car washing facility. When cleaning up yard wastes or debris, use a broom or rake. Avoid blowing leaves or disposing of yard wastes into the road. Pick up pet waste and dispose of it in the trash. You can also report non-emergency incidents by calling 3-1-1  or create a service request online here: https://www.columbiacountyga.gov/301/Service-Request-Form

8. How does polluted storm water affect me?

Stormwater hits impervious surfaces and since it cannot soak in, stormwater runoff is created. As stormwater hits hard surfaces like roads, driveways, and rooftops, it collects pollutants such as sediment/dirt, oil, grease, animal feces, lawn chemicals, yard debris, etc. and eventually deposits these pollutants in our local waterways. Visit the Environmental Services page for more information and email us or call 706-447-7645.

9. Where does rain water go after it enters a storm drain?

Rain water, also known as stormwater, is discharged directly to our local creeks, streams, and eventually Savannah River. There is no treatment or cleanup of stormwater before it is deposited in our waterways. Visit the Environmental Services page for more information and email us or call 706-447-7645.

10. Can I partner with the County on water pollution prevention and stormwater quality outreach efforts?

We are always looking to reach out to our citizens and are more than happy to partner with the community to spread education and awareness. Visit the Green Guide to learn more about our current partnerships like Adopt-A-Stream and Rain Barrel Workshops. Visit the Green Guide here: https://columbia-county-green-guide-columbiagagis.hub.arcgis.com/

11. Does the County offer educational presentations on water pollution prevention and / or stormwater quality?

Yes, we offer educational presentations on a variety of topics. Please visit the Green Guide to learn more about our environmental education. For more information, email greenguide@columbiacountyga.gov https://columbia-county-green-guide-columbiagagis.hub.arcgis.com/

12. Do I need a Land Disturbance Permit for a retaining wall?

Yes; all Building Permits that have land disturbance associated, even minor soil disturbance, will require an approved Land Disturbance Permit application. Visit the Land Disturbance Permit page for detailed information. Call 706-447-7645 or email us with questions.

13. Do I need a permit to clear and stump trees on my property?

Most Likely yes. Visit the Land Disturbance Permit page for detailed information. Call 706-447-7645 or email us with questions. Please consult with staff BEFORE starting work.

14. My lot didn’t require a Notice of Intent Permit. Do I still need a Notice of Termination inspection?

Yes! Permit requirements and inspection requirements are two separate categories. Though the Notice of Intent permit was not required, E&S inspectors still need to visit the site to determine that stabilization best management practices have been followed (e.g., silt fence removal, permanent seeding and mulch, etc.).

15. How do I schedule a Notice of Termination (NOT) inspection?

If the project had a Notice of Intent, please provide the County with an Environmental Protection Department Notice of Termination (NOT) form. Notice of Termination inspections are scheduled through the Stormwater Compliance Department at 706-447-7645 or via email.

16. How soon can I get an E&S inspection?

Inspection requests received by 4:30 pm will be scheduled for the following business day unless you specify a later date.

17. How do I schedule an E&S inspection?

Call 706-447-7645 or email us.

18. Who can I call about new construction or land disturbance complaints?

Contact 3-1-1 with pertinent location information. One of our inspectors will inspect the area and get back in touch with the complainant's provided contact information.