Stormwater and Drainage Control
Dumping substances into the storm drain is against the law. If you see someone dumping a substance down a storm drain, get as much information as possible. Location, time of incident, and any identifying characteristics of the vehicle or company involved (if applicable) so the problem can be responded to effectively.
Call the Stormwater Pollution Prevention hotline at 208-395-8888 or Report a Stormwater Issue Online
For additional information about Boise’s Stormwater Program:
Contact us at 208-608-7565
Since 1997, the Public Works Department has administered the stormwater program. Among other MS4 permit requirements, such as developing a drainage control program, Boise City is required to provide stormwater education and outreach to residents within Boise city limits.
Boise City Jurisdiction
Responsibility for control of stormwater runoff within the City of Boise is distributed among several agencies. Street drainage and street drains are the responsibility of the Ada County Highway District (ACHD). Drainage from commercial areas is regulated by the city.
Boise City is responsible for operation and maintenance of drainage conveyance systems for stream flows from the four main gulches in the Boise Foothills: Cottonwood Creek, Hulls Gulch, Crane Creek and Sand Creek.
Many areas of the city use flood irrigation. In those cases, responsibility for drainage lies with one of several irrigation or drainage districts or local water users associations within the city limits.
Onsite Detention Program
The Boise Public Works Department reviews commercial development drainage plans to ensure stormwater runoff from commercial sites is disposed of in an environmentally sound manner. The Onsite Detention Program limits increases in stormwater volume going into the Boise River by eliminating most offsite discharges from new commercial construction.
Shallow Injection Wells
In the city of Boise, if you are turning in a building permit for seepage bed construction, an Idaho Department of Water Resources (IDWR) shallow injection well inventory form is required.
Additional Information
Design Manual and Appendix J Documents
Get access to the Boise Stormwater Design Manual and the Permanent operation and Maintenance Agreements (appendix J).
Get Documents Partners for Clean Water
Boise City is a member of Partners for Clean Water. The organization's mission is to reduce pollutants in stormwater and create a conscious and responsible public that knows that clean water is good for the environment, business and our community by providing educational resources to the residents and businesses of Boise.
See More Stormwater Management Plan
The City of Boise's Stormwater Management Plan, as required by the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) under the Federal Clean Water Act.
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