What is stormwater runoff?
Stormwater runoff is generally rainwater and melted snow that is unable to soak back into the ground and runs off surfaces like roads, roofs, driveways, and lawns.
Runoff from my neighbor's property is coming onto mine.
Land alterations can change the way runoff leaves someone's property. Inadequate maintenance of home drainage systems prevents them from working correctly. Similarly, neighborhood ditches, pipes, and storm drains can become clogged with debris and cannot remove stormwater from neighborhoods. Runoff should be discharged to a drainage system when possible. However, downstream property owners are generally obligated to receive runoff from roads, cross culverts, and upstream property owners.
What is the City's responsibility to maintain runoff or drainage?
City staff performs regular maintenance and inspection of our publicly-owned stormwater system. The City also reviews, inspects, and issues permits for development and land alteration plans to ensure that all development and redevelopment meet City and State regulations.
What is my responsibility for addressing runoff or drainage problems?
Your property also needs to be maintained to ensure adequate drainage during heavy rains. Here's what you can do:
Maintain your drainage system
Know your stormwater system and make sure it is clean and functional. Storm drains collect water and move it downstream. Storm drains that are cluttered with leaves, garbage, and other debris block flow and create flooding.
Be a good neighbor
In our rainy climate, stormwater is generally unavoidable. Water that is unable to soak into the ground will find its natural route downstream, often across roadways, paths, and private property. Work with your neighbors to clear brush, debris, and blockages from neighborhood ditches and storm drains. Make sure driveway culverts are clean, functional, and constructed correctly. Concerns with stormwater flow between neighboring properties are a private issue, and between the property owners. Uphill property owners should consider how their landscaping and grading could impact lower properties, and downhill property owners should recognize that water always follows the laws of gravity. A reasonable and cooperative compromise serves both parties and fosters neighborhood harmony.
Can I alter the drainage from my property?
Stormwater runoff is considered a "common enemy" and everyone has the general right to protect their property from upstream flows. But this right is mitigated by a few considerations. First, you cannot block a natural drainage course. Second, the water needs to leave your property in the same manner and amount as it did before the changes to the drainage were done. Finally, and above all else, you must exercise due care to avoid unnecessary damage.
Report a drainage concern
See a drainage issue outside of your property? Report drainage concerns in the public stormwater system online at www.bothellwa.gov/drainageconcern or call 425-488-0118 during business hours.
Click to open a PDF version of stormwater runoff information.
