INDIANAPOLIS – The Department of Business and Neighborhood Services (BNS) is reminding citizens it is the responsibility of property owners to keep stormwater drains clear and functioning to assist Indianapolis’ infrastructure in handling excessive rainwater.
High and recurring precipitation events have led to an increase in the amount of rainwater in the city’s waterways. Due to this fact, the drainage of stormwater and sewage systems operates slower than normal. The City of Indianapolis is encouraging residents to maintain stormwater systems and remove blockages on private property which will help decrease the amount of time it takes for rainwater to drain from properties and roadways.
Property owners are responsible for ensuring stormwater drainage facilities, on or adjacent to private property, are fully functional and do not impede waterflow from natural or artificial infrastructures. Maintenance responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, mowing grass in swales and roadside ditches, removing brush, debris and other blockages from creeks and ditches along with keeping storm-sewer drains, inlet grates, driveway culverts and cross pipes in good repair and clear of trash, leaves and grass clippings. Additionally, pet owners should pick up after pets to avoid pet waste from entering waterways.
Property owners experiencing drainage and erosion problems on private property can contact the Marion County Soil and Water Conservation District (MCSWCD), a non-profit organization specializing in soil, water and natural resource conservation. MCSWCD provides Marion County land users recommendations on approved practices for erosion control on private property, soil surveys, construction plans reviews and investigations of infrastructure drainage facilities. For more information, visit marionswcd.org.
Citizens Energy Group (CEG) manages sanitary sewers in the City of Indianapolis – Marion County. Residents needing sewer permitting information and connection, visit the CEG website or call 317-927-4328.
It is illegal to dump grass clippings, yard waste and trash in or along waterways and the public right of way. If you are the victim of or witness illegal dumping, or experience infrastructure issues due to lack of drainage maintenance from neighboring private property, please contact the Mayor’s Action Center at 317-327-4622 (4-MAC), report online at RequestIndy or download the mobile app available on iPhone and Android.