Letting Rain (or Snowmelt) Down the Drain
Storm drains and the underground piping network are an important part of the City's infrastructure. They help move stormwater from our roads, parking lots, and other hard surfaces to our streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, and the ocean. By moving this stormwater runoff in pipes underground, it prevents flooding and makes it safer for us to walk and drive around.
However, storm drains are very susceptible to getting clogged which is why they need regular maintenance from both the City and nearby residents and businesses. The City helps prevent storm drains from becoming blocked through their street sweeping efforts in the spring, summer, and fall to collect common storm drain clogging materials, like winter road sand, yard waste like grass clippings and leaves, and litter. This is why it is helpful to follow the posted street parking bans so the City sweepers can collect these materials and keep the drains clear. You can also help street sweeping efforts by preventing these items from reaching the streets in the first place by bagging yard waste for City collections, picking up litter, and only using as much sand and salt as needed to stay safe.
Keeping storm drains clear in the winter is equally challenging. Storm drains blocked by snow banks or ice prevent melting snow or rain from draining and can quickly cause significant flooding. Taking a few extra moments to clear storm drains (and while you're at it, a nearby fire hydrant) can prevent even more dangerous winter road conditions when backed up waters freeze.