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Creeks, Culverts, & Ditches
If your property has a creek, a waterway, or drainage system, the maintenance typically falls on the property owner. Each property owner of land adjacent to a drainage facility or creek is required to maintain the free flow of water by promptly removing debris, overgrowth, drowned trees and limbs, and other obstructions.
Creeks, Culverts & Ditches also known as drainage facilities are an important part of the city’s drainage system and are regulated by City Ordinance. Regular maintenance prevents blockage and obstruction of water flow and ensure adequate drainage and control of stormwater and rainfall runoff passing in and through such facilities.
Proper care minimizes flooding, keeping banks vegetated to prevent erosion, preventing pollutants from entering waterways, and removing trash to help maintain a healthy watershed. It is imperative that the work be conducted in such a manner that it will not adversely affect the natural habitat of vegetation or wildlife that share the creeks with us, and in a way that will preserve the beauty of our creeks and drainage systems.
Creek
Culvert
Ditch
Proactive Maintenance
The City recommends the following listing below when maintaining creeks, culverts, or ditches. Regular maintenance preserves and protects the integrity of the neighborhood.
Allowing obstruction of water flow or discharge of harmful substances is an offense under the City of Seagoville Code of Ordinances 19.10.009 and is subject to enforcement.
Questions? Call:
- Code Enforcement 972-287-6836
- US Army Corps of Engineers 469-487-7007
Remove fallen trees, brush, and tree limbs from the creek since they catch trash and cause stagnant water and sediment build-up. This can act as a breeding ground for mosquitos and block the natural flow of the creek, which can lead to flooding.
Storm runoff may deposit trash or litter in the drainage way. Regular removal of litter will help maintain the creek's natural appearance, improve water quality, and deter the presence of rodents and other animals.
Creeks and waterways naturally change and evolve over time regardless of agricultural, commercial, industrial, or residential development. Non-maintained creeks can lead to the erosion of the creek bank, which can damage and negatively impact the value of your property. Any slope stabilization measures that are in place should be inspected at least twice a year and repaired promptly at the first sign of any damage or erosion. Slope stabilization measures include but are not limited to retaining walls, fabric mesh coverings, and rip-rap. This will save you money and preserve your property in the long run.
If these measures require any repair or if you want to install a measure to stabilize your slope, you must first contact the Community Development department to obtain a drainage or grading permit.
The root systems of established grasses and plants should be left in place as they help stabilize the soil and prevent slope erosion. Ground cover and other vegetation should be kept trimmed to prevent overgrowth and promote strong roots. Do not clear the creek slopes to bare ground and replace grasses and ground cover that is lost during high flow.