Storm Drainage

Storm-drainage systems are designed to protect homes from flooding, by storing water on the streets at a safe level that is within Alberta's Storm water Management Guidelines. The storm-drainage system is made up of two parts:

• A minor system made up of underground pipes that are fed by storm-drainage drains on streets.
• A major system made up of a network of streets and ponds that store water temporarily during high-intensity rainfalls.

When the amount of rainfall exceeds the capacity of the underground pipes, an inlet control device (ICD) inside the storm drains, prevents more water from entering the pipes. Water will then start to collect on the streets and be released into the storm system at a controlled rate. If the collected water on the street does not drain within a couple of hours after a storm, please contact Public Works at (403) 948-8415 for assistance.

Swales
In many lots, a concrete drainage swale is installed to move overland drainage to a designated location. A swale is typically located 300 mm (12 inches) from the property line to the nearest side of the swale. Swales are contained within an overland drainage easement, which imposes certain restrictions and obligations on the homeowner including regular care and maintenance (weed control, grass cutting, and cleanout) as well as restrictions to placement of permanent structures within this easement.

Lot Drainage
During design submissions, Engineering Services reviews engineered drainage plans from the developer. This contains suggested grades for subdivisions and individual lots ensuring proper drainage from your lot and surrounding lots. During landscaping, contractors and home owners should ensure drainage is not directly deposited onto adjacent properties and to ensure drainage flows away from the foundation of any dwelling.