Stormwater and Drainage

What We Do

The City manages stormwater runoff and directs it safely to the Big Sioux River. This is done through storm sewers, open drainage channels, and Best Management Practices (BMPs), such as detention and retention basins that meet EPA regulations.

System Overview

A storm drainage fee helps pay for the storm sewer and drainage system. This fee appears as a charge on real estate property tax bills and funds the system's operation, maintenance, and major repairs or upgrades. The fee amount is based on three factors: the size of the property, how much runoff it produces, and a standard unit charge.

This fee generates more than $10 million each year, which supports drainage projects across the city. The City currently maintains:

• Over 3,800 inlets are inspected and cleaned every year.
• Over 512,000 feet (97 miles) of stormwater pipe is cleaned every year.
• Over 137,000 feet (26 miles) of stormwater pipe is inspected, or "televised," every year.

Two additional funding programs support larger stormwater projects. The Drainage System Cost Recovery (DSCR) program funds the design and construction of regional BMPs. The Regional Detention Charge (RDC) provides money to purchase land needed for these projects. Together, these programs help build the stormwater facilities needed for new developments and major redevelopment projects. 

Drainage Properties

The City also owns and maintains over 490 drainage properties. Together, these properties cover 1,775 acres — more than a full square mile — and help manage stormwater runoff across the city.

Ways We Help Control Stormwater