Frequently Asked Questions
- What are Impact Fees?
- Impact fees are charges levied against new construction to help generate revenue to build new arterial streets, water lines, wastewater lines, and parks needed because of new developments.
- In other words, impact fees are a one-time, up front charge, paid by new construction only. The fee is paid at the time of the building permit and is issued based on a pre-set formula. The money collected is used within the district that it is collected to build new arterial streets, water lines, wastewater lines and parks.
- Why were impact fees created?
- Impact fees assign the cost of new infrastructure from the general public to the new construction that creates the need, reducing the need to raise utility rates and taxes.
- Prior to June 2, 2003, negotiations took place between developers, builders and the City. Based on these negotiations, developers or builders were required to construct certain eligible impact fee facilities. This construction determined the categorically exempted areas.
- What does "district benefit area" mean?
- The City has been divided into seven districts or benefit areas, and each has a separate account. Fees collected in a district or benefit area may only be used for new construction in that area.
- What does "exemption" mean?
- Exemptions refer to developments that are not subject to impact fees.
- Does an addition/remodel of a residence have an impact fee?
- If there is no change in water meter size, no. A residential remodel or addition is not subject to an impact fee.
- What if I need to increase my water meter size?
- Yes, a fee would be applicable to an increase in water meter size. You would receive credit for your current meter size and pay the difference.
- Does an addition/remodel of a commercial facility have an impact fee?
- Yes, the impact fee is based upon a pre-set formula and the land use. Please refer to the fee schedule for more information.
- What is the difference between impact fees and infrastructure financing?
Impact fees are charged to new construction to assist in the funding of infrastructure. Infrastructure financing is the City's overall plan to finance new infrastructure.- What are the five impact fee categories?
- The eligible costs include:
- Arterial Streets - pavement, bike trails, median landscaping, street lights, storm sewer, box culverts, retaining walls
- Water System - water supply, treatment, transmission mains, pumping and storage resevoirs
- Water distribution - lines 16 inches and larger
- Wastewater - lines 10 inches and larger
- Neighborhood parks and trails - site grading and drainage, landscaping, seeds and trees, sidewalks, play courts, basketball goals and poles, pre-fabricated shelter structures, picnic shelter pads, picnic tables, trash receptacles, modular play structures, benches, rubber tile play area matting, sand and labor
- How are the impact fees and the database updated?
- Impact fees are updated electronically through the Geographic Information System map system (GIS). The information for the database is updated with data from the County Assessor's Office, the City-County Planning Department and the City Building and Safety Department.
