DrainageThe Engineering Division handles drainage problems created by new construction and land disturbance activity including problems resulting from the construction of new streets, subdivisions, commercial developments, and new homes.
The Engineering Division manages the City of Huntsville's Capital Drainage Improvement Program which includes the large drainage improvement projects such as the Aldridge Creek Channelization Project and small drainage projects that require only minor improvements. The Engineering Division also manages the engineering watershed modeling projects for all of the city's major watersheds which is funded from the Capital Improvement Drainage Program.
The Engineering Division reviews drainage plan submittals for new subdivisions, commercial developments, and new streets to verify that the design conforms to regulations stated in the City of Huntsville Stormwater Management Manual. Conditions of approval are imposed for areas of concern related to stormwater runoff. Careful attention is directed toward drainage calculations and computer modeling of stormwater runoff in order to prevent future drainage problems. Specific concerns are placed on the impact that increased runoff may have on existing drainage facilities and the erosion and sediment problems usually created by new construction. The City's Stormwater Management Manual places restrictions on increased runoff created by the new development and requires erosion and sediment control measures be implemented and maintained during the construction process.
The Engineering Division issues Grading Permits for land disturbance that conform to the requirements of the Stormwater Management Manual. A Grading Permit, Building Permit, or Subdivision Construction Permit must be obtained by the Contractor before any land disturbance commences. Grading Permits are required for all land disturbance activity including excavation, clearing, filling, grading, and drainage-related work. Grading Permits are not issued and building permits are not approved by the Engineering Division until all drainage requirements have been met.
The Stormwater Management Manual may be purchased in the Engineering office for $25.00 per copy.
Who to Contact With a Drainage Issue
Public Works Department
Telephone: (256) 883-3944
Maintenance items on existing properties such as:
Ditches stopped up and overgrownTrees along drainage ditch need cuttingInlets clogged by debrisBroken pipe, grates, lids, and guttersStorm drain lids and covers are off/missingStanding water
Erosion problems on existing ditches
Flooding created by fences blocking flow
Drainage problems in existing developments not associated with any new development
Holes in yards/lawns over existing pipe |
Engineering Division
Telephone: (256) 427-5300
Drainage problems associated with new residential development, commercial development, subdivision development or new street construction such as:
Storm water runoffMud resulting from storm water runoffStorm water runoff from new house(s)
Erosion from new development and/or buildings
Flooding in a garagebasementhome
Request for ditches to be piped or improved |
