SCWP Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the goals of the Safe, Clean Water Program (SCWP)?
In 2018, Los Angeles County voters approved Measure W, which created the Safe, Clean Water Program. This two-pronged program develops activities and implements projects on both a regional and municipal level with the following goals:
  • Stop toxins and trash from flowing into local waterways
  • Capture more rainfall from LA’s infrequent, yet intense, rain events
  • Clean and treat this rainwater for use
  • Add natural areas, shade and green space
  • Improve the quality of life for Angelenos
  • Protect residents against the negative effects of climate change
Isn’t the drought over? Doesn’t California have plenty of water?
During a typical rainy season, Los Angeles receives 15 inches of rain annually, but Southern California is still considered a water-scarce region. Climate change will cause future weather extremes including periods of drought. We need to protect and improve our local water resources.

How much rainwater does LA capture now? 
Los Angeles has rainwater capture projects in each of LA’s four watersheds. Many of these projects were funded by Proposition O. During a normal wet season, these projects have the potential to capture more than two billion gallons of rainwater.

What types of projects does the Safe Clean Water Program fund?
The Safe, Clean Water Program funds a myriad of multi-benefit projects throughout Los Angeles. These projects capture, clean and treat rainwater, add green space for residents, create habitat for wildlife and improve the quality of life for residents.

How much money does the Safe, Clean Water Program generate?
The Safe, Clean Water Program generates approximately $37 million annually for the city of Los Angeles from Los Angeles County property tax assessments.

How much tax do I have to pay?
The County of Los Angeles has developed a tax estimator tool, which will allow users to search by parcel number of street address. Please visit the County of Los Angeles’ Safe, Clean Water Program website for more information.

Are any residents exempt from paying for the Safe, Clean Water Program?
Residents who are 62 years of age or older and meet the low-income limit as determined annually by the California Department of Housing and Community Development may apply for a senior tax exemption. Please visit the County of Los Angeles’ Safe, Clean Water Program website for more information.

For additional questions and answers, please visit the County of Los Angeles’ Safe, Clean Water Program.