Using Rainwater to Grow Livable Communities: Regulatory and Incentive Systems

Municipalities have implemented a wide range of “carrot” (incentive) and “stick” (regulatory requirement) approaches to encourage implementation of smart and sustainable water management practices. A community’s decision to choose a regulatory approach, use incentives, or combine both approaches will be based on its existing procedures and requirements governing new development and redevelopment, as well as its general philosophy toward working with developers. While regulatory requirements for certain types of stormwater management might be a straightforward way to achieve a community’s goals, incentives can be used to garner support and good will from the development community because they offer tangible benefits that positively impact bottom lines. A combination of requirements and incentives can ensure that minimum expectations for stormwater BMPs are clearly stated while offering rewards for developers who want go the extra mile. 

Keywords: water harvesting, regulation, regulatory, incentives, funding, developers, green infrastructure, financial, density bonuses, recognition, demonstration