Storm Drains

The Cornelius Storm Drain Division provides storm water drainage services through the revenues of the Storm Drain Fund. Storm water drainage services are provided to protect the community from surface water erosion and property damage due to severe precipitation events. Environmental enhancement is also provided by controlling and filtering the surface water flows to Council Creek and the Tualatin River to fully comply with the surface water management requirements of Clean Water Services (CWS).

Where Storm Water Goes 
A catch basin is the grated inlet to the storm system located near the curbs on city streets. Water drains off the street surfaces by entering catch basins and flowing through underground pipes. Within a short distance it empties into either a wetlands or the Tualatin River.

The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has the primary responsibility to maintain ditches along the highway. Through a cooperative agreement, the Public Works department partners with ODOT to keep the ditches free from obstruction and vision hazards.

Flooding 
The capacity of the Cornelius storm system to collect and carry away heavy rains is different in various parts of the city. Sand and bags are available free of charge at our facility during regular office hours.  A complete county-wide sandbag site list is available below.  If you experience problems in your neighborhood please contact Public Works at 503-357-3011.

Dos and Don'ts 
It is illegal to dispose of hazardous waste i.e. used automobile oil, latex or oil based paint, and anti-freeze, by dumping them into the storm system catch basins. Ideally nothing but rainwater will enter the storm drainage system.