The bill S.24, introduced by Senator Chittenden, aims to amend the permitting requirements for stormwater systems in Vermont. Key provisions include extending the deadline for owners of impervious surfaces subject to the three-acre impervious surface permit to complete their permitting from July 1, 2027, to July 1, 2036. Additionally, municipalities that take full legal responsibility for a stormwater system will be allowed to assess municipal impact fees on users of that system. The bill also establishes the Local Community Implementation Special Fund, which will provide grants to municipalities for stormwater permitting of residential subdivisions or orphan systems, funded by an annual appropriation from the Clean Water Fund.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing legal language regarding stormwater management, including the definition of impervious surfaces and the conditions under which permits are required. It introduces a new section that allows for the transfer of $5,000,000 from the Clean Water Fund to the Local Community Implementation Special Fund in fiscal year 2025. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 10-1264, 10-1389(e), 10-1389, 24-3616