AntoineAsphalt.caDo Permeable Pavers Lower Hamilton's Stormwater Fee?
Quick answer
Not for a typical house. Hamilton charges homes a flat stormwater fee based on dwelling type, not on how much hard surface you have, and the fee credits are for non-residential properties only. Permeable pavers can qualify for the City-funded Rain Ready Hamilton rebate, run by Green Venture, but only for projects approved before work starts; the 2026 application window closed April 22, 2026.
When did Hamilton's stormwater fee start?
The newest source, By-law 25-220 (passed December 10, 2025), says: "This By-law comes into force on July 1, 2026."
Older City sources give different dates:
| Source | Start date it gives |
|---|---|
| Council update HW2503 (June 2025) | "implemented in April 2026" |
| City news release at launch | "start in April 2026" |
| Engage Hamilton project page | "starting in 2028" |
| By-law 25-220 (December 10, 2025) | July 1, 2026 |
The by-law is the most recent and the legal document, so we treat July 1, 2026 as the start date. Check hamilton.ca for the current status.
How much is Hamilton's stormwater fee for a house?
Homes pay by dwelling type. The 2026 rates approved in principle in March 2025 (reported in HW2503) are:
| Dwelling type | 2026 rate (approved in principle) |
|---|---|
| Single detached | $200.75 a year |
| Semi-detached, townhouse or duplex (per unit) | $100.38 a year |
| Triplex to six-plex (per unit) | $60.23 a year |
By-law 25-220 confirms the billing factors (1.0 for a single detached home, 0.3 for triplex to six-plex units) but doesn't list dollar amounts. We could not confirm the final rate in effect after July 1. HW2503 says residents can ask for a reassessment "only if their unit count is wrong."
Will permeable pavers reduce my stormwater fee?
Not on a home. The City's credits are for non-residential properties only:
- Stormwater Infrastructure Credit: up to 50%. "Pervious pavers" are listed as an example.
- Green Space Credit.
- Harbourfront credit: up to 90%.
"Stacking of credit streams is not permitted."
Is there a rebate for permeable pavers in Hamilton?
Yes. Rain Ready Hamilton is a City-funded rebate run by Green Venture. Its FAQ lists "Permeable paving (driveways, sidewalks, paths and/or patios)" as eligible.
- Open to single-family homes and multi-residential buildings with 6 or fewer units.
- New, pre-approved projects only. No rebates after the fact (except City rain barrels).
- Contractors must provide a business certificate or licence number and itemized quotes.
- The FAQ does not state the rebate amount or cap.
2026 timeline (now past):
| Step | 2026 date |
|---|---|
| Applications opened | March 2 |
| Applications closed | April 22 |
| Approvals by | May 4 |
| Expenses due | October 31 |
| Cheques mailed | November 30 |
We have not confirmed a 2027 intake. Watch Green Venture's site early in the new year.
In the 2025 pilot, the program got 101 applications against a target of 70, with 34 approved by June 1, 2025. Permeable surfaces were among the most popular projects, including six driveways.
How do permeable pavers work?
Permeable pavers have spacer bars that make wider joints. The joints are filled with clear, angular stone with no sand fines, over an open-graded stone base (Unilock). Rain soaks into the base instead of running off.
Unilock lists the benefits as less runoff, water kept away from foundations, less pooling and less ice. It notes that "true permeability depends on factors like base material, joint width, void percentage, and joint fill type." Some lines, such as Eco-Promenade, are rated for vehicles.
Upkeep: Unilock says to clear debris from the stone joints with a broom, leaf blower or pressure washer about every ten years to prevent weeds.
What about Burlington and Oakville, and digging permits?
We have not confirmed whether Burlington or Oakville charge a stormwater fee or offer a similar rebate. Check with your town.
Before any digging, Green Venture reminds applicants to call Ontario One Call for front-yard locates. A private locate company may be needed for backyard lines.
Hamilton stormwater fee lookup
Flat by dwelling type. Permeable pavers don't change this amount.
2026 rates approved in principle, March 2025 (HW2503). Final rate not confirmed. Check hamilton.ca.
- Single detached: $200.75 a year. Flat by dwelling type. Permeable pavers don't change this amount.
- Semi-detached, townhouse or duplex unit: $100.38 a year. Flat by dwelling type. Permeable pavers don't change this amount.
- Triplex to six-plex unit: $60.23 a year. Flat by dwelling type. Permeable pavers don't change this amount.
- Commercial or other non-residential: Non-residential fees and credits work differently. See the City of Hamilton.
Frequently asked questions
Will permeable pavers cut my Hamilton stormwater bill?
Not for a home. Residential fees are flat by dwelling type, and credits apply only to non-residential properties.
Can I get the Rain Ready rebate after the work is done?
No. Only new projects that were pre-approved qualify, except City rain barrels.
How much is the Rain Ready rebate?
Green Venture's FAQ doesn't state an amount or cap. Ask Green Venture directly.
How do I keep permeable pavers draining?
Unilock says to clear debris from the joints with a broom, leaf blower or pressure washer about every ten years.
Related guides & services
If you're planning a permeable driveway or patio, see our permeable pavers page. Remember that Rain Ready needs pre-approval before work starts.
Fees, dates and rebate rules can change. Confirm with the City of Hamilton and Green Venture before you plan around them.
Ask about your project
Contact Antoine Landscape Contractors at (647) 459-7775 or share your project details below.