Stormwater

Storm System Overview

The Public Works Department maintains 85 miles of storm sewer throughout the City. This includes the inspection, cleaning and maintenance of more than 5,000 stormwater structures (manholes, catch basins and catch basin sumps).


How You Can Help

If you live near a storm drain, check to make sure it is clear of leaves and other debris, including snow and ice during the winter months. Flooding may occur during periods of heavy rain or rapid snow melt if the drains are blocked by debris, preventing the normal discharge of stormwater into the system. Clogged storm drains can also have a significant negative impact on local water bodies.  Watch this short video from Kare 11 News for more information on this issue.  Your help is appreciated!

If you see illegal dumping of oil, gasoline, paint or other chemicals into the storm drains, please contact the Public Works department at 651-322-2022.

Read more about the many other ways you can help protect our wetlands and other surface water.


Helpful Resources

2021 MS4 SWPPP Document

Surface Water Management Plan

Grading Permit Application Form

Best Practices for Pools and Hot Tubs

Flyer - Pond and Wetland Protection

Vegetation and Sediment in Wetlands

What YOU can do to help

Kare 11 video - Salt Reduction Efforts Across MN

MnDOT video - Chloride and Our Water

MWMO video - Good Choices for Clean Water

Wetland Health Evaluation Program (WHEP)

Master Water Stewards program

Sign up to adopt a storm drain at Adopt-a-drain.org








  1. What is stormwater runoff?
  2. Why do I need to be concerned about stormwater runoff?
  3. My property is adjacent to a storm water pond and I don’t like all the tall grass and wildflowers surrounding it. Can I mow it down and do my own landscaping?