What can I do to help prevent flooding in my area?
  • Do not throw or dump anything into storm sewers or ditches within the city. Even grass clippings and branches can accumulate and plug pipes, inlets and conveyance channels. A plugged conveyance system will not carry water and when it rains; clogged storm drains will cause water to back up into the street and may cause structure flooding in a large event. Every piece of trash, including cigarette and cigar butts, contributes to localize flooding and pollutes waterways.
  • Keep stormwater inlets near your property clear of trash and debris. Rake pine needles and leaves away from your street stormwater grate. Don’t stack garbage or yard debris on a storm water inlet. This allows water to flow into the system as it was designed to do. Don’t blow grass clippings or leaves into the street and sweep up any clippings or leaves or blow them back onto your lawn. They can clog up the stormwater system and cause flooding.
  • If your property is next to a ditch, help keep the banks clear of brush and debris. The city has a Ditch Maintenance Program, which can help remove major blockages such as downed trees.
  • The city of routinely cleans the 55 small and 81 large ditches within the city limits. While heavy rains, stormwater runoff and illegal dumping can quickly undo the work of cleaning crews, the city attempts to keep all canals free flowing at all times. To report illegal dumping into the city's ditches, call our 24-hour dispatch at (386) 671-8815.

Show All Answers

1. What is a stormwater utility fee?
2. How is the stormwater fee calculated?
3. There aren’t any storm drains or canals anywhere near my property. Do I have to pay this fee?
4. How often are storm inlets cleaned?
5. What can I do to help prevent flooding in my area?
6. What can I do to help prevent flooding around my home?