Managing my Rainwater

We perform routine maintenance of our publicly owned stormwater system to help reduce flooding potential. Your property at home also needs maintaining to make sure it provides drainage during heavy rains.  


Here’s what you can do to prepare for the worst of winter weather:

• Know your system

Knowing the location and components of your stormwater system helps you know what maintenance is needed.  You can check with your builder to get stormwater system information for your home.  

Make sure all the parts of your system are clean and functional.  Keep your system working well by making sure it’s free of sediment and debris.  If you need help, contact a professional maintenance company.

• Mind your gutters

One of the best ways to prepare for the winter rains is to inspect and remove leaves, pine needles, and other debris from your gutters as needed.  Clogged, leaking or broken gutters lead to flooding and property damage.  

• Keep storm drains clear

Storm drains collect water and move it downstream.  If the grate is cluttered with leaves, garbage and other debris, it can block flow and create flooding.  

NEVER REMOVE THE LID OR CLIMB INTO A STORM DRAIN, AND NEVER ATTEMPT TO CLEAR ONE LOCATED IN A BUSY STREET.  Call us at 360.337.5777, or call 911 for after hours emergencies.

• Be a good neighbor

Consider the impact of drainage from your property to neighboring downstream areas, and do not let the water draining from your property create or aggravate landslides, erosion or flooding.

• Install some green stormwater solutions

Green stormwater techniques like rain gardens can slow down and soak in runoff before it becomes a problem.  Get help with projects like rain gardens (and more!), improving your backyard stream, or solving mud and manure issues at your farm, including technical help and cost-share options.  


See an issue outside your property?  Report flooding or drainage problems in the public stormwater system at 360.337.5777 or help@kitsap1.com.

Learn about flood safety to help protect your property during storms.