What You Can Do

Everyone can do their part to protect Nanaimo's stormwater system. Simple actions at home help prevent flooding and pollution and support with city's ongoing work.

Keep Ditches Clear

Although they may seem natural , materials like yard waste and gravel should not be placed in ditches because they restrict the flow of water. Other materials like garbage or recycling should be disposed of in designated waste containers, not ditches.

Clear Catch Basins

Whether storm drains are blocked by fallen leaves, snow, or debris, you can help keep the water from flooding in your neighbourhood by clearing the storm drains/catch basins on your street.

This includes the catch basins near or on your property, and anything else that needs occasional maintenance!

During the summer, you can clear catch basins with a rake:

During the winter, you can use a shovel to move the snow and debris:

Use Sandbags During Storms

If your property experiences pooling or flooding during a rain or storm event, you can use sandbags to divert the water. Free sand and fillable bags are available at:

Public Works Yard
2020 Labieux Rd.

Bring a shovel and ties; this is a do-it-yourself service. Please only take what you need.

For a quick demonstration of how to fill your sandbags and where to find them, click on the video below.

Don't Clear Culverts Yourself

Culverts are more complex and difficult to maintain. Please do not try to clear a culvert on your own! Call city staff at 250-758-5222 for help.

Dispose of Waste Properly

Never dump waste, chemicals, or debris into ditches, streams, or storm drains.

• For safe disposal of chemicals, paints or other waste, check out our What Goes Where Tool or download the app (download at the Google Play Store or Apple's App Store).
• Report illegal dumping to the City by calling 250-758-5222
• Share this message with neighbours and contractors working on your property

Remember, storm drains/catch basins drain to the ocean, so only rainwater should flow into them. 

Report Anything Unusual

If you notice anything odd while walking down the street, notify us! Missing or tampered infrastructure needs to be attended to. Missing / altered manhole lids or catch basins grates, along with clogged drains, are all instances that need to be reported. You can call our Public Works office at 250-758-5222.

Reduce Hard Surfaces on Your Property

You can have a positive impact on our built and natural stormwater system by reducing the amount of rain that runs off your property. Things that help could include:

• Rain gardens
• Green roofs
• Permeable pavement

These and other Low Impact Development (LID) measures help absorb stormwater on-site and reduce pressure on the City's system.