Stormwater Frequently Asked Questions

The Stormwater Maintenance Section is responsible for the maintenance of the public stormwater system across Collier County. To report an issue please contact the Collier County Road Maintenance Division office (239) 252-8924.

Collier County Ordinance No. 2001-27(PDF, 348KB) "Authorizes correction of problematic surface water run-off from single family residential lots caused by elevating the lot......." If you experience this situation contact the Code Enforcement Division at (239) 252-2440 and site this ordinance number to initiate an investigation.

The primary purpose of the ditch along the roadside is to collect and store stormwater runoff generated during a rainfall event when it flows from the impervious roadway surface. Once collected in the ditch the stormwater can dissipate naturally by evaporation and percolation. Many but not all of the roadside ditches are connected to larger stormwater receiving facilities designed to convey excess stormwater runoff to a downstream receiving area. This allows ditches full of stormwater to convey excess runoff away from the area, the secondary purpose of the road side ditch.

The ditch is more than likely part of a regulated surface water management system. Prior to any ditch filling activities, a permit will be required. In most cases enclosing a ditch with a pipe will be prohibited per Collier County Ordinance No. 2003-58(PDF, 341KB). Ditches and swales form a system of temporary stormwater storage. A proposed ditch enclosure will result in a net loss of water storage volume, as the volume of the proposed pipe will be significantly less than the volume of the existing ditch. Loss of system volume can cause stormwater to back-up resulting in flooding of the surrounding area. Ditches and swales holding stormwater runoff provide several valuable functions. Upon collection, as water temporarily "sits" in the ditch, sunlight provides energy to the natural biological system present. Microscopic organisms begin the water purification process before gravity begins water's slow movement downward into the soil. Once the downward movement (percolation) begins, stormwater runoff held in a ditch is further purified by traveling through soil layers as it makes its way back to the underground aquifer, one of natures finest water storage areas. This recharge of the aquifer ultimately supplies Collier County residents with drinking water.

Please call the Growth Management Department at (239) 252-2400 for information on how to obtain a ROW permit.

Canals are maintained by the South Florida Water Management District-Big Cypress Basin (239) 597-2236 or Collier County Road Maintenance Division (239) 252-8924.

Nutrients are the biggest threat to local waterbodies, primarily because it is so common and widespread that people think of it as harmless. Too much fertilizer, grass clippings, and leaves in the water can lead to increased algae growth which is difficult to remedy, but it's easy to prevent. Residents can reduce runoff by installing rain gardens, using Florida Friendly Landscaping practices, using permeable pavement, maintaining proper drainage, and minimizing the use of fertilizers and pesticides. 

Please call (239) 252-2502 Collier County Pollution Control, Email: Pollution Control or report online.

Projects include flood control measures, drainage system upgrades, water quality improvements, and infrastructure maintenance.