Leaves and grass clippings can clog our storm drains and sewer pipes, blocking the flow of water and worsening flooding during heavy rains.
![Leaves crowding over a storm drain.](/sites/default/files/styles/centered_image_full_width_900x645/public/2023-09/SummerDrain.jpg?itok=mNCHW3KV)
Please take the following precautions to help protect and maintain our water and sewer infrastructure this fall.
- Don’t rake or blow leaves or grass clippings into the street.
- Don’t dump yard waste or trash near or into storm drains.
- Place your leaves in a bag for curbside yard debris collection or compost them at home.
- If you have a mulching lawnmower, use it to recycle leaves and their nutrients into your lawn.
- Fertilize lawns in the fall to prevent nutrients washing away during spring rains. Use slow-release and organic fertilizers, which are less likely to wash away.
If you see a clogged or broken storm drain, please call Dispatch at 412-255-2423 (Press 1). For more information, please visit our Storm Drains website.