Fees for Inspections

The city of Springfield, OH, is considering a change to its stormwater ordinance that would add a fee for inspections of new construction projects. If the change is approved, developers would pay plan review fees of $125 per acre for the first 5 acres, $75 per acre for the next 5 acres, and $35 per additional acre.

As this article from the Springfield News-Sun explains, some local commissioners say they’re uncomfortable adding more fees for developers, fearing that it might discourage new development. The Clark County Building Industry Association is also, predictably, opposed to the fee. However, another commissioner points out that the city’s building department already charges inspection fees. The stormwater department conducted about 100 inspections on new projects last year and says the fee would help cover its expenses.

The city of Springfield, OH, is considering a change to its stormwater ordinance that would add a fee for inspections of new construction projects. If the change is approved, developers would pay plan review fees of $125 per acre for the first 5 acres, $75 per acre for the next 5 acres, and $35 per additional acre.

As this article from the Springfield News-Sun explains, some local commissioners say they’re uncomfortable adding more fees for developers, fearing that it might discourage new development. The Clark County Building Industry Association is also, predictably, opposed to the fee. However, another commissioner points out that the city’s building department already charges inspection fees. The stormwater department conducted about 100 inspections on new projects last year and says the fee would help cover its expenses.

Among the other changes in the updated stormwater ordinance, the city has also made it easier for construction projects to incorporate green infrastructure.

Does your city or county charge developers stormwater inspection fees? What do you think of the practice?