WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT?
Understanding WHO is responsible for flooding and drainage is a critical piece to the puzzle when it comes to repairs and replacement of infrastructure. While often, the Town is thought to be responsible for ALL components of drainage and flooding repairs that take place within the community, the responsibility is actually very dependent on where the flooding takes place.
The town maintains the infrastructure of the public stormwater system contained within dedicated storm drainage easements. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) maintains the storm systems in TxDot right of ways. There are also numerous private systems that are the responsibility of private property owners, including driveway culverts and bridges that cross public drainage systems.
The town is responsible for maintaining the public drainage system and structures within the easement to allow for proper function of the system. I.E. The town is responsible for water that flows into the street and into the public drainage system.
PRIVATE DRAINAGE & EROSION ISSUES:
Private drainage and erosion issues, as well as ground water issues, are the responsibility of the homeowner.
Drainage directed from gutters, downspouts or other private systems to neighboring properties is a civil matter between the property owners. Driveways, and the associated culverts or bridges, that cross public drainage systems (e.g., that cross over ditches or streams) are also property owner responsibilities.
Information or assistance may be available from the Community Development Department about the cause of the problem and possible solutions.
Homeowners are responsible for routine grounds maintenance such as grass mowing and trash / debris removal. Owners should ensure that systems and structures are kept free of yard waste (grass clippings, tree trimmings, and leaves) or other obstructions that may block the flow of water, including:
- Driveways and their associated culverts or bridges
- Fences, which are allowed in easements as long as they do not block the flow of storm drainage
- Trees, shrubs and other growth within easements
- Maintain drainage swells
WHAT HOMEOWNERS CAN DO TO PREVENT ISSUES:
Keep storm drains free of litter and debris. Do not rake or dump grass clippings or leaves into the storm drainage system. Keep the area easily accessible in case repairs or maintenance are necessary. Do not place sheds or other permanent structures in the easement or on top of drainage structures. Apply pesticides and fertilizers several days before rain is forecast; if applied right before a rain, most of it will just wash off and end up in a storm drain. Also, consider reducing the number of applications.
Never dump pet waste, used motor oil, paint, chemicals or other substances into a storm drain. Report dumping or spilling of hazardous materials into a drainage system to the Fire Department by calling 911 in case of an emergency or 972.434.5500 option 9 in a non-emergency situation.
Swimming pools should never be drained into storm drains without properly treating the water first.
WHO IS TNP?
Teague Nall and Perkins, Inc. (TNP) is a professional civil engineering, surveying, and landscape architecture firm with offices across Texas and Georgia.
TNP has built a long-standing reputation for providing quality designs and responsive services to their clients. They strive to build long-term relationships with clients, and offer value in a consistent ability to deliver quality services and respond quickly to their needs.