Municipal drains are a system for moving water. They are created by a by-law passed by the local municipality under the authority of the Province of Ontario Drainage Act. The municipality is responsible for the construction, maintenance and repair of the drainage system. The costs are borne by the owners in the drain basin.
Most municipal drains are either ditches or covered systems consisting of underground pipes or conduits. Some creeks and small rivers are now considered part of municipal drains. Municipal drains are located primarily in rural agricultural areas of the province.
As the owner, you are partly responsible for the drains located on your property. Monitor them and report any problems immediately to the City of Clarence-Rockland. Do not store materials such as brush, wood or other materials near the drain. In the event of a storm, they can be washed away and clog the drain. Preventive measures of this type will reduce the risk of damage to your property.
You can visit the United Counties of Prescott and Russell's À La Carte application for locations of municipal drains.
More information on municipal drains can be found on the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs website.