Is the City responsible for ensuring proper drainage on my lot?
The City is not responsible for ensuring proper drainage on privately owned property. If it is impossible to remedy the problem by working with your neighbor, then civil court action may be taken. This should be a last resort to resolving drainage problems. Only if the neighbor is diverting or impounding water against its natural flow or unnaturally concentrating the flow would the neighbor likely be liable for damages. If water is flowing as it naturally would, then the neighbor likely has no liability. Property owners are responsible for maintaining drainage on their own property. You could also consider a licensed Professional Engineer with expertise in storm drainage to examine alternative solutions.

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?