In 1988, the Pierce County Council established the Surface Water Management (SWM) Utility. The Council established a per parcel service charge dedicated to fund the services SWM provides. The SWM Utility service charge is similar to other dedicated charges for services such as sewer treatment, local fire districts, and library services.

The SWM Utility funds projects and programs that help protect people, property, and natural resources from the impacts of flooding and water pollution. For example, the service charge funds projects that help keep major roadways accessible during flooding.

Starting in 2012, all single-family residences will pay a $108.39 annual service charge. Multi-family, mobile home parks, commercial, and other parcels pay a service charge based on the amount of impervious surface area (rooftop, paved areas, etc.) and gravel on the parcel.

Please note that the service charges only apply to unincorporated Pierce County. Most cities and towns within Pierce County have their own Surface Water Management Utility.

Frequently Asked Questions (pdf)

Fact Sheet (pdf)

Canyon Creek Stormwater Pond

Flooding

Puyallup River Levee Repair