Don’t be that guy! Monsoon Planning
Don’t be that guy! The rain falls, our phones here at StormWater Pros light up! Pleas for help to pump water from parking lots and other properties begin to flood our office.
We want to help, we really do, but a little education goes a long way in making these rainy days in Arizona a lot more enjoyable.
Here’s what you need to know.
Background In the 70s, laws were passed that required property owners to retain and dispose of stormwater on their property. This is the reason that you see all those retention basins in neighborhoods, industrial parks and other properties developed after that time. Interesting fact: The passing of these laws played a major role in spurring master planned communities and HOAs.
It’s Perfectly Normal. Don’t Panic. After a large storm, retention basins will fill with water becoming more of pond. Once it stops raining the retention basins may remain ponds for several days. This is perfectly normal. With heavy rains there is more water that needs to percolate into the ground and it may take some time. If after 3 days there is still standing water in your retention basins, we should talk. Poorly maintained drywells, too few drywells or other infrastructure issues may need addressed.
It is Illegal to pump stormwater into the street. This one is pretty cut and dry. It’s not legal for you and it’s not legal for Stormwater pros to use any type of pump or equipment to direct or relocate water from your property to a street drain or area off your property.
It is legal to pump water from one location on your property to another location. Sometimes water can be relocated on your property from one area to another.
Keep it real. Stormwater Pros trucks can hold approx. 2,000 gallons of water. That’s a lot, BUT that’s nothing! A retention basin usually holds 100,000 to 200,000 gallons. Are you with us here? It’s just not possible to pump that amount of water.
If after 36 hours there is still standing water in your retention basin, it’s usually a sign you have an issue that needs to be addressed. We understand it’s frustrating, but all we can do is wait. Once the water starts to percolate and go down, StormWater Pros is ready.
