System Development Charges

System Development Charges (SDCs) are one-time fees assessed on new development or redevelopment projects. These charges help fund the expansion of public infrastructure and ensure that growth pays for growth — rather than shifting the cost burden onto existing residents and ratepayers.

As a community grows, so does the need for essential public facilities and services. New homes, businesses, and developments increase the demand for water, sewer, stormwater, transportation systems, and parks. SDCs provide a funding mechanism that allows the City to build the infrastructure necessary to support this growth, maintain service levels, and protect long-term community investments.

What Do SDCs Pay For?

SDCs help finance capital improvements in the following service areas:

•     Water – expanding water supply, storage, and distribution systems
•     Wastewater – increasing capacity for collection and treatment of sewage
•     Stormwater/Drainage – improving and expanding storm drainage infrastructure
•     Transportation – building or upgrading streets, sidewalks, intersections, and traffic control systems
•     Parks and Recreation – developing new parks, trails, and recreational facilities to meet increased demand

Why Are SDCs Important?

Without SDCs, the cost of expanding public infrastructure to serve new development would fall on existing taxpayers or utility ratepayers. SDCs create a fair and equitable way for new development to contribute to the systems it will use, helping the City:

•     Maintain quality services
•     Promote responsible growth
•     Preserve financial stability
•     Avoid overburdening existing infrastructure

When Are SDCs Assessed?

SDCs are typically assessed at the time a building permit is issued. Fees are based on the type and size of the development. For current rates, detailed methodology, or to estimate SDCs for your project, please see the SDC Fee Schedule Below and use the SDC worksheets below. 

Please contact the Engineering Department at Engineering@sthelensoregon.gov if you have any questions.