Definitions
The Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System ( MS4 ) is the storm drain system owned and operated by the City . The MS4 is comprised of stormwater facilities used to convey excess rainwater or stormwater runoff away from streets , homes and businesses and into local streams , creeks and lakes to reduce the risk of flooding . Stormwater is not treated prior to discharging into a natural waterway .
Sanitary Sewer System — An underground series of pipes and other structures which collects and conveys wastewater from homes and businesses to a city operated waste treatment facility .
Stormwater Storage Facility — A drainage structure designed to capture , treat and / or store runoff and then slowly release downstream or into the ground .
Drainage Easement — A part of your property where the City has limited rights of access and / or use . Generally , you cannot make any improvements in a drainage easement . That means no fences , sheds , walls , or buildings . Impeding the stormwater flow in these areas can lead to localized flooding issues .
Swale — a low lying or depressed tract of land used to manage or direct stormwater runoff .
French Drain — a trench filled with gravel or rock and containing a pipe that is typically recommended for groundwater or standing water issues .
Barrow or Bar Ditch - a roadside channel used or installed for drainage purposes .
Lot to Lot Drainage - Private property owners are responsible for ensuring and maintaining proper drainage on their property . It does not violate city ordinance for a residential or commercial property to drain to another .
Mosquito Concerns
The City of Arlington relies upon monitoring and observation by both residents and city crews , to identify and eliminate any standing water which could serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes and larvae . Typically mosquito larvae will thrive in still , shallow water less than 15 inches deep . Bird baths , pet bowls , wading pools , tire swings , flower pots or any similar receptacle with standing water can serve as a breeding place for mosquitoes .
For more information Contact the City of Arlington ’ s Environmental Health Department at 817-459-6502 or visit
www . arlington-tx . gov / ��� / health��������� /
Protecting Arlington ’ s Waterways
Public Works and Transportation Stormwater Management Division
101 W . Abram St P . O Box 90231 MS 01-0220 Arlington TX 76004-3231 Phone : 817-459-6550 Fax : 817-459-6585
stormwatereducation @ arlingtontx . gov
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A Citizen ’ s Guide To Stormwater Quality