STORMWATER GRANTS
Philadelphia Stormwater Grants: Your Project, Fully Funded
Imagine upgrading your property’s stormwater system without paying for design or construction out of pocket. That’s exactly what PWD’s Stormwater Grants offer. We work with commercial, industrial, and multi-family property owners across Philadelphia to secure funding, execute projects, and help you save thousands on your stormwater bill over time.
Grants Overview
Understanding Stormwater Grants And Their Value
For many Philadelphia property owners, stormwater charges remain a constant drain on operating budgets, often adding up to thousands of dollars every year. Fortunately, PWD’s Stormwater Grants Program offers a powerful solution by covering the full design and construction cost of approved retrofit projects. These projects don’t just resolve existing drainage issues—they also enhance curb appeal, extend the life of infrastructure, and improve the overall functionality of your property. Most importantly, they make your property eligible for significant, long-term bill reductions through the Stormwater Credits Program. In other words, you can eliminate upfront costs, boost your property’s value, and secure ongoing savings, all while contributing to a cleaner, healthier future for Philadelphia’s waterways.
Why It Matters For Property Owners
Funding offsets construction costs that would otherwise slow or stop needed upgrades. You reduce violation risk, improve resilience during heavy rain, and show due care to boards and stakeholders. When your retrofit is finished, your site can be evaluated for stormwater credits, creating a long term savings stream on top of the funded project.
What Stormwater Grants Are
The Stormwater Grants Program funds retrofit design and construction for qualifying nonresidential properties within the city. Typical projects include bioretention areas, porous pavement, green roofs, and strategic disconnections that lower runoff. After PWD approves record drawings and maintenance commitments, the site can pursue credits to reduce the stormwater portion of the water bill.
Finding The Right Stormwater Grant For Your Project
The Philadelphia Water Department offers different grant programs depending on the scope and location of your retrofit. Some grants cover small-scale projects like disconnected downspouts, while others fund large-scale green infrastructure such as rain gardens or porous parking. We’ll help you identify which program fits your project and maximize the funding opportunity.
Small-Scale Retrofit Grants
These grants cover targeted improvements like disconnecting a roof downspout, installing a small rain garden, or redirecting runoff to landscaped areas. Ideal for addressing immediate drainage issues without a full system redesign, these grants are accessible and cost-effective.
Green Infrastructure Grants
Aimed at larger, site-wide upgrades, these grants fund bioretention basins, permeable pavement, rain gardens, and planting retrofits. They support both environmental goals and monthly savings. They are especially valuable for larger commercial or industrial sites in Philadelphia.
Corridor or District Retrofitting Grants
In neighborhoods or districts targeted for stormwater improvements, corridors of adjacent properties may qualify for aggregated funding. These grants support scalable green infrastructure that benefits multiple properties through shared design and efficiencies.
Emergency or Special Case Funding
When a site poses immediate environmental or public risk, such as severe erosion or compliance violations, Philadelphia may provide expedited or alternate grant streams. We can help assess if your situation qualifies and submit a strong application for fast-track funding.
Could Your Property Qualify For Stormwater Grants?
These grants are designed for property owners who can implement on-site stormwater improvements. That includes businesses, schools, industrial properties, and residential complexes with suitable space. If you have areas of hard surface that drain into the city’s sewer system, you’re likely a strong candidate for funding.
You may qualify for stormwater grants if your property:
- Your property is in Philadelphia and has over 4 dwelling units or is non-residential.
- You have impervious surfaces that could be retrofitted to manage stormwater.
- You are willing to maintain the installed system for the long term.
- You have no unresolved water billing disputes or unpaid violations.
- Your site offers space for practices like rain gardens, porous paving, or underground infiltration.
Your End-To-End Partner For Stormwater Grants In Philadelphia
The stormwater grants process can be overwhelming if you try to navigate it alone. We act as your dedicated project manager, coordinating with PWD, Philadelphia Industrial Development Corporation (PIDC), engineers, and contractors to bring your vision to life.
Site Assessment & Feasibility
We evaluate your property to determine which stormwater retrofits will qualify for maximum grant funding.
Grant Application Management
We compile site data, engineering designs, and cost estimates to maximize your approval chances.
Engineering & Design Coordination
Our designs integrate stormwater management practices seamlessly into your property’s layout.
Project Management & Construction Oversight
Our team supervises installation to confirm all stormwater systems function as intended.
PWD Compliance & Documentation
We gather and submit all post-construction records required by PWD for final approval.
Long-Term Support & Credit Renewal
We schedule regular inspections to maintain eligibility and keep your system in top condition.
Your Trusted Partner For Navigating The Philadelphia Water Department
For over a decade, property owners, managers, and municipalities across Greater Philadelphia have relied on us to guide them through every step of the PWD process. From inspections to violation resolution, we provide a clear path to compliance while protecting your budget and your property’s reputation.
Complete PWD Support
We handle everything from initial inspections to maintenance, repairs, and paperwork submission.
Proven Violation Resolution
Our proactive approach reduces the risk of costly fines, downtime, and unexpected emergency repairs.
Local Expertise
We understand PWD regulations in detail, eliminating guesswork and delays.
250+
Stormwater systems inspected across Greater Philadelphia.
400+
Violations resolved quickly and documented for clients.
10+ Years
Proven experience in stormwater compliance and construction.
$1M+
Total stormwater credit savings earned for clients.
Common Questions About Stormwater Grants
What is the Philadelphia Stormwater Grants Program?
This program is a city-backed initiative that helps property owners pay for green infrastructure upgrades that capture and manage stormwater on-site. The grant funds both design and construction costs, so you can implement improvements without the heavy upfront expense. Once complete, these upgrades often qualify you for ongoing bill reductions through the Stormwater Credits Program.
How much funding can I receive through the Stormwater Grants Program?
While there’s no fixed dollar limit, grants are designed to fully fund qualified stormwater management upgrades. Larger, high-impact projects that significantly reduce runoff may receive higher funding amounts, particularly if they support PWD’s long-term watershed goals.
How do stormwater retrofits benefit my property beyond compliance?
Retrofitting your property with stormwater management practices can solve drainage issues, reduce flooding risks, improve landscaping, and create greener, more appealing outdoor spaces. It’s an opportunity to invest in both function and aesthetics..
How long does the Stormwater Grants process take from start to finish?
From application to project closeout, expect a 1–1.5 year process. The length depends on project complexity, seasonal construction windows, and the review process with PWD and PIDC.
Do I still have to pay for anything if I get a grant?
The grant typically covers all eligible design and construction costs, but there may be expenses outside the grant’s scope, such as unrelated site improvements or private upgrades you choose to add.
How does a stormwater grant affect my monthly bill?
Once your grant-funded retrofit is complete, you may qualify for stormwater credits that reduce your monthly stormwater charges. The savings can be substantial over time, often paying for maintenance costs and more.
Why should I work with a professional to secure a stormwater grant?
Grant success depends on strong design, accurate documentation, and flawless execution. A professional team can navigate the red tape, handle engineering coordination, and deliver a project that gets approved.
Received A Notice Of Violation? We Can Fix It Fast.
A stormwater violation can put your site and budget at risk. We’ll help you navigate the entire process, from initial notice review to implementing repairs and submitting reports that meet PWD standards.
