Fort Worth council members have approved a 5% increase in the stormwater utility rates to reinforce the infrastructure of high-risk storm drainage pipes throughout the city following the Sept. 17 Fort Worth City Council meeting.

Up to 59 miles of city drainage pipe main lines are at a high risk of failure, according to city officials. The compromised pipes could lead to the following issues:
  • Sinkholes
  • Increase in flooding risks
  • Negative impacts on roads, structures and vehicles
According to a presentation from the District 10 town hall meeting Sept. 12, the 5% increase will bring in an additional revenue stream to issue an estimated $11 million in revenue bonds for fiscal year 2026.

Zooming in

In 2024, the standard rate for typical annual stormwater fees were:
  • $79.35 for the the average single-family home
  • $1,329.40 for a small business, such as a gas station or retail store
  • $13,294 for a medium-sized business
If the rate is adopted, the standard annual rates will increase by:
  • $3.96 for single-family homes
  • $66.47 for small businesses
  • $667.40 for medium-sized businesses
City officials said that by proactively rehabilitating the drain pipes will increase public safety, reduce the need for emergency response and provide an opportunity for more complete projects throughout the city.

Zooming out




In 2024, Fort Worth residents saw the stormwater fee rise by 15% from the previous year, adding $6.61 per month to the average home water bill. These funds are being used for initiatives preventing and mitigating flooding issues in Fort Worth, according to city documents.

The rate escalation provides an annual revenue increase of $5.9 million for a portion of the 2023-24 fiscal year and an increase of $7.7 million during the full fiscal year of 2024-25.

What’s next?

The 5% increase is included in the 2024-25 fiscal year budget for Fort Worth, which was voted on Sept. 17. Since the budget was accepted, the stormwater utility increase will take effect Jan. 1, 2025.