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Rainwater Rewards rebates and credits in Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Apply before work starts. Victoria offers installation rebates for owner-occupied homes with one to four units, and stor
Key information
Apply before work starts. Victoria offers installation rebates for owner-occupied homes with one to four units, and stormwater credits for qualifying rainwater methods. Multi-family and business projects use a professional credit route.
On this page
Choose the property route
Owners who live in a home with one to four units can apply for an upfront rebate. Low-density properties may also qualify for a 10% annual stormwater credit. Work completed before May 2015 can qualify for credits, not rebates.
Multi-family, business and institutional properties can apply for ongoing credits rather than installation rebates. The page describes a 2.5% to 50% range depending on method and treated runoff; the exact design determines eligibility.
Sources: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Compare all residential rebate methods
The rebate table below includes all five residential methods listed. Rain barrels need at least 350 litres and cisterns 1,200 litres. Other methods use a minimum treated or installed area.
Standards apply to all projects. Bioswales must be completed by a professional; all multi-family, business and institutional systems need professional work and the professional standard.
Sources: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Apply with plans and evidence
Submit before construction with electronic plans. For an already completed eligible system, the city asks for electronic receipts, photos and a plan. Follow the renewal process for ongoing credits rather than assuming they continue without documentation.
Questions go to stormwater@victoria.ca or 250-361-0443. The public table contains a unit-formatting error in one area cell, so confirm detailed area calculations in the management standard.
Sources: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Key details at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Rain barrel | 350 L minimum; $0.10/L; $35-$100 rebate |
| Cistern | 1,200 L minimum; $0.15/L; $180-$600 rebate |
| Rain garden/bioswale/infiltration | 25 m² minimum; $15/m²; $375-$1,000 rebate |
| Permeable pavement | 10 m² minimum; $20/m²; maximum $750 |
| Paving with infiltration/piping | 25 m² minimum; $30/m²; $750-$1,500 rebate |
Sources: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Steps to follow
- Confirm property category
Owner-occupied low-density rebates differ from credits.
- Apply with design
Meet standards before starting construction.
- Provide completion proof
Submit required evidence and renewal documents.
Sources: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Useful questions and answers
Should I apply before construction?
Yes. The city asks for applications before work starts.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Who can get the upfront residential rebate?
An owner who also lives in the home with one to four units.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Can a business get that installation rebate?
No. The business/multi-family route offers ongoing credits instead.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
What is the minimum rain barrel capacity?
350 litres.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
What is the minimum cistern size?
1,200 litres.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Can I build a bioswale myself for the program?
The city requires a professional for bioswales.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Do larger-property projects need professionals?
Yes. The city requires professional work and standards for that route.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
What about systems installed before May 2015?
They may qualify for credits, not installation rebates.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
What evidence is needed for completed work?
Electronic receipts, photographs and a plan.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table
Who answers program questions?
Stormwater staff at 250-361-0443 or stormwater@victoria.ca.
Source: Rainwater Rewards eligibility, methods and rebate table