Starting in July, a 4% technology fee will be charged on all financial transactions in Your DEQ Online, except agency-issued penalties. The fee, which was authorized by the 2021 Oregon Legislature, is necessary to pay for annual operation and maintenance costs of Your DEQ Online.
Your DEQ Online, a cloud-based data storage and management system, provides a modernized and efficient method of conducting business with many DEQ programs. The system allows for electronic fee payments as well as online submissions of everything from permits and certifications to licenses and renewals. It also allows for easier access to published DEQ data, saving the public and DEQ time and money.
Revenue from the fee can only be used for operation and maintenance costs, which are estimated at $800,000 per year. The technology fee is separate from the 2.3% credit card convenience fee charged by US Bank to those who choose to use that method of payment.
Your DEQ Online went live in May 2021 and now seven DEQ programs are actively using it. More programs will be added over the coming 18 months after software testing is completed.
For additional information about the technology fee, please see this FAQ. If you receive questions from the public about the fee, please direct them to YourDEQOnline@deq.oregon.gov.
— Harry Esteve, communications manager