Urban Cost Share Program

The Urban Cost Share Program is an incentive-based program to help land users address existing erosion and other non-point source water pollution issues in approved watersheds. The program offers financial and technical assistance to reduce runoff, stop erosion and address other non-point source pollution issues. Approved applicants are eligible to receive 75% of allowable costs, up to $7,500, associated with installing approved Best Management Practices at their location.

The full Urban Cost Share Program is open to citizens throughout the City of Charlotte and in unincorporated Mecklenburg County.

As of 2016, we are also expanding our program to include the six other municipalities in Mecklenburg County.  Citizens in Matthews, Mint Hill, Pineville, Huntersville, Cornelius and Davidson are now eligible to apply for assistance with stabilization of eroding streambanks.  Due to restrictions by our grant funding source, citizens in these areas are NOT currently eligible for assistance with remaining practices, excepting  riparian buffers associated with a streambank stabilization project.

To be considered for assistance, please complete an interest form as a first step in being considered for assistance. District staff will review forms and property maps and schedule a site assessment and assist with application to the program when appropriate.

All applications to the program are ranked for their benefit to water quality. Qualified applications are funded in order of rank as funds allow. Approved applicants will receive a BMP design and installation guidance. Applicants may begin implementation of practices upon notice of board approval. Funds expended prior to board approval are not eligible for reimbursement. Per contract terms, participants are responsible for maintaining practices for a minimum of five years. Additional restrictions may apply.

Critical Area Planting:
Establishing permanent vegetation on sites that have steep slopes with high erosion rates, and on sites that have physical, chemical, or biological conditions that prevent the establishment of vegetation with normal practices.

Grassed Waterway (Swale):
A natural or constructed channel that is shaped or graded to required dimensions and established in suitable vegetation for the stable conveyance of runoff.

Pet Waste Receptacles:
Receptacles and supplies to better manage pet waste, usually in public areas.

Rain Garden:
A landscaped area that collects storm water runoff.

Streambank Stabilization
Vegetative stabilization (planting) and/or grading of erosive streambanks and shorelines to stabilize erosion and reduce soil loss.

Riparian Buffers
An area dominated by trees and/or shrubs located adjacent to and up-gradient from water courses or water bodies.

For additional information or questions, please contact Allison Channell at 980-314-3202.