What is a storm easement?
When a drainage facility can only be accessed by private property, the City is granted a storm easement over that private property — which means the City may access the drainage facility using private property.
What happens if the homeowner is not around to let the City in, in the event of an emergency or non-emergency?
Property owners are responsible to provide the City access through the easement. Failure to do so could leave the homeowner liable for any damages that occur to surrounding properties. We ask that gates and access be left open for emergency access during the rainy season.
What are the responsibilities of private property owners in maintaining an easement?
It is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep the easement clear from clutter or vegetation and to also help monitor the easement for any potential problems.