Stormwater, also referred to as runoff, surface water, or wet weather flow, is rain or snow that falls on streets, parking areas, rooftops and other hard surfaces. It then either flows directly into nearby streams or travels there through drainage systems, such as curbs and gutters, inlets, ditches, pipes, storm sewers, and detention ponds. The flows are then discharged directly into our waterways. As the stormwater runs across the surfaces, it picks up pollutants or contaminants such as litter, debris, oils and antifreeze from cars, soil, pet waste, fertilizers, etc. As it picks up these contaminants, it becomes polluted. Unlike our wastewater collection and treatment system, stormwater receives no treatment before it is released into the environment.
For the safety of the public and for the protection of public and private property, stormwater must be properly managed.
The Stormwater Division of Metro Water Services has the following responsibilities:
- control flooding with proper Stormwater Maintenance such as cleaning curbs and gutters, street inlets, pipes, ditches, culverts, etc.;
- regulate development by setting design standards, providing technical guidance, reviewing plans for development and redevelopment, inspecting construction sites, and enforcing regulations; and
- Pollution Prevention by educating the public, implementing clean water programs, inspecting and monitoring runoff, complying with federal and state regulations, and enforcing water quality standards set by the Clean Water Act.
These services are funded by the Stormwater User Fee.