My neighbor has done some work on his lot and now I’m getting more runoff. What can I do?
Lot-to-lot drainage problems are civil matters between the property owners. It does not violate city code for one lot to drain onto another. It is against the law to divert or concentrate runoff towards your neighbor’s property or block runoff from draining onto your property. We advise that you meet with your neighbor and discuss the problem to work toward a mutually agreeable solution. If this is not possible, consider grading swales on your property to convey the runoff around your home. Swales are wide shallow ditches that will collect runoff and take it to a more desirable area, typically the street. If swales are graded, care should be taken to ensure that grass is established so that they do not immediately erode. Area drains may be considered, but they typically do not have the capacity to handle the volume of runoff that is threatening to flood a home, and must be frequently cleaned of leaves and debris to function properly.

Show All Answers

1. What is stormwater runoff?
2. What is the purpose of the Stormwater Quality and Control Chapter of the City of Wheat Ridge Code of Laws?
3. What is the difference between public and private drainage systems?
4. What should I do with the roof drains from my single family dwelling?
5. My neighbor has done some work on his lot and now I’m getting more runoff. What can I do?
6. My driveway culvert has become clogged and no longer drains properly. Will the City come out and clean out my culvert?
7. There is new construction behind my lot and I’m having drainage problems due to the construction. Is there anything the City can do to make the developer drain his development away from me?
8. Is the City responsible for ensuring proper drainage on my lot?
9. What is the right way to place the hose from your sump pump?