Stormwater Smart

What is Stormwater?

Stormwater is the rain or melted snow that doesn’t soak into the ground. Instead, it runs off surfaces like streets, sidewalks, and parking lots.

Along the way, it can collect:

Motor oil
Trash
Fertilizers
Pet waste

…and carry all that straight into local waterways.

Unlike wastewater (from your toilet or sink), stormwater doesn’t go to a treatment plant. It flows directly into creeks and rivers - often through a system of storm drains, pipes, and ditches.

How the Drainage System Works

When rain falls, it needs somewhere to go. That’s where the stormwater drainage system comes in.

Water flows from streets into storm drains (those metal grates by the curb), travels through a network of underground pipes, and eventually empties into a creek, stream, or river.

The system helps prevent flooding - but it doesn’t clean the water. That’s why keeping pollution off the streets matters!

Storm Drain vs. Sanitary Sewer

Storm Drains: Take rainwater to nearby waterways - no treatment included.
Sanitary Sewers: Carry wastewater from your home to a treatment plant.

They’re totally separate systems - but people often confuse them!

The City is dedicated to keeping our drainage routes clear and working as they should. Maintaining these systems is critical, especially in our neighborhoods, to prevent flooding and protect our community.

When a problem is identified, like a blocked drainage route, the City will notify the property owner and ask for their help in resolving the issue. We believe in working together, with residents and businesses, to find effective solutions.

If an issue goes unresolved, the City may need to take further steps. This could include issuing a citation, or in some cases, addressing the problem directly, with costs potentially passed on to the property owner.

Please give us a call or email zack.henson@stillwaterok.gov if you have any questions. For more information, see:

Drainage Facilities: Public vs Private

Drainage facilities are structures and systems designed to manage stormwater runoff, ensuring it is directed away from properties and safely discharged into appropriate outlets. These facilities can be categorized as either public or private:

Public Drainage Facilities: These are owned, operated, and maintained by the City of Stillwater. They include infrastructure such as public stormwater pipes, culverts, and channels located within public rights-of-way or easements.
Private Drainage Facilities: These are owned and maintained by private property owners or entities. They may include systems like private stormwater pipes, detention basins, or drainage ditches located on private property or within private developments.

Understanding the distinction between public and private drainage facilities is crucial for determining maintenance responsibilities and ensuring proper stormwater management.

Private Drainage Facilities: Who is Responsible?

Maintenance of private drainage facilities is the responsibility of the property owner or the entity that owns the facility. This includes regular inspection, cleaning, and repair to ensure the system functions correctly and does not contribute to flooding or pollution.

Key responsibilities include:

Regular Inspection: Property owners should routinely inspect their drainage facilities to identify any blockages, damage, or signs of malfunction.
Cleaning and Debris Removal: Keeping the system free of debris, sediment, and obstructions is essential for proper operation.
Repairs and Upkeep: Promptly addressing any damage or wear to the facility helps prevent larger issues and ensures compliance with local regulations.

Failure to maintain private drainage facilities can lead to enforcement actions by the City, including notices of violation and potential penalties. Property owners are encouraged to familiarize themselves with local ordinances and seek guidance from the City's Watershed Quality Division if needed.

Tips to Protect Our Water

A cleaner city starts with small steps. Dash the Duck approves these:

Scoop the poop! Pet waste belongs in the trash, not the lawn.
Don’t dump it! Never pour anything down a storm drain - not even soap.
Use less fertilizer. More isn’t better - and it can wash into waterways.
Sweep it up. Leaves, grass clippings, and dirt can clog drains and pollute streams.
Wash smart. Take your car to a car wash, or wash it on your lawn - not the driveway.
Trash it right. Secure garbage and recycling to keep litter off the streets.
Pick up after yourself. That includes soda cans, snack wrappers, and plastic bags.

Every little bit helps. And your neighborhood ducks will thank you.