By Donna Durckel
COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE
County Public Works maintains a vast network of public roads, as well as sewage pipes and pump stations and flood channels to keep things flowing for you year-round. During storm events, we keep our channels and drains in the public right-of-way clear to minimize flooding.
Part of maintaining this right-of-way includes trimming trees and making sure vegetation doesn’t obstruct views when pulling onto the road.
The County only maintains the infrastructure it owns. So how would you know if something is on private or public property? You can check the list of County Maintained Roads
There also are many roads in San Diego County that are maintained by other agencies. Freeways and State Highways (SR 52, 76, 94, etc.) are maintained by Caltrans. There are many private roads maintained by property owners, and other public roads, such as those within incorporated cities, that are not in the County Maintained System.
County efforts on public property improve community safety and help protect property in neighborhoods. They are also separate from what private property owners need to do to ensure they are prepared for heavy rains as El Niño approaches.
Here are some examples of things that are the maintenance responsibility of property owners or renters.
You can check the County’s Survey Records System to determine if there are private or public drainage facilities on your property: https://srs.sandiegocounty.gov.
Keep streams and other conveyances that carry rainfall runoff through your property free of obstructions and debris such as trees, tall bushes, and trash. A plugged or obstructed drain cannot carry water and could cause flooding.
Never dump or throw anything into the streets or storm drainage system. To do so is a violation of the County’s Watershed Protection Ordinance.
Check to ensure that pipe that drains at your curb in front of your house is clear of weeds, dirt or other obstructions. Because this handles drainage from a private property, it is the responsibility of the homeowner.
County Flood Control provides helpful resources for property owners, including information on how to prevent flooding on your property, available in 10 languages. Erosion can occur under many circumstances, but it typically affects homeowners after events like rain. Here’s a helpful resource to prevent erosion. Visit AlertSanDiego.org/ElNino for more information.
If you see something in the public right-of-way that needs attention? Let us know. If it is after hours or on holidays, you can report a concern at (858) 565-5262.
Courtesy San Diego County Office of Communications.