Stormwater Problem?

Public Concerns

The City investigating stormwater issues that may be considered public problems. Generally, public problems:

• Have a clear potential for loss of life, or damage to public infrastructures or buildings (such as homes, bridges, decks, sheds, tennis courts, etc);
• Present a conflict with emergency access;
• Cause a constant standing water or ponding problem (48 hours or longer) that cannot be resolved with proper finish grading;
• Have a clear potential for high risk stream bank erosion on multiple properties or severe water quality degradation.

If you have a public stormwater issue or concern, contact us.

Private Concerns

Other stormwater issues are considered to be the responsibility of private property owners. Here are some tips for managing stormwater on your property:

• Prevention
  • Do not divert or block yard drainage (swingsets, patios, pools, landscaping planters, sheds, etc.)
  • Keep privacy fencing slightly above drainage areas
  • Routinely inspect and maintain all stormwater structures.
• Standing or ponding water
  • If you have a newly constructed home, you may need to contact your developer to resolve grading issues.
  • Try rain gardening or installing a drain to bring the water below the surface.
  • Use a rain barrel to collect water from downspouts and use it to water your landscaping: How to Build and Install a Rain Barrel, Rain Barrel Slideshow: step-by-step construction and installation instructions
• Water causing erosion
  • The Soil & Water Conservation District offers free technical assistance to help determine the cause of the problem and solutions. Call (636) 922-2833 ext. 3.
• Detention & Retention Basin Problems
  • Citizen's Guide for Detention & Retention Basin Maintenance
  • Homeowner Pond Inspection Checklist
• Buying Property
  • Since you are financially responsible for future drainage or erosion problems on your property, it pays to do some research. The St. Charles County Soil & Water Conservation District has free soil surveys and offers technical assistance. Call (636) 922-2833 ext. 3.