(Oct. 16, 2025) The leaves are changing colors and rain is in the forecast, which means it is time for the return of the Portland Bureau of Transportation’s (PBOT) adopt a storm drain program. Portland's storm drains, also known as catch basins, help with stormwater runoff and prevent flooding. When drains get clogged with fallen leaves and other debris, it leads to dangerous ponding along city streets and intersections. PBOT crews work hard to keep more than 58,000 storm drains clear but with so many, we can't get to them all. By "adopting" a storm drain near you and helping keep them clear of debris, you help keep your street safe and clear from ponding water for your family, friends, and neighbors.  Before, during, and after: Clearing storm drains helps water flow freely into Portland's stormwater system instead of ponding on city streets. Photos by PBOT. Follow these tips for clearing storm drains:- Use a rake, shovel, or broom. Don't use your hands.
- Wear gloves. Be careful of sharp objects!
- Wear reflective clothing so people driving can see you. Watch out for traffic!
- Only clear drains you can reach from the curb (or the shoulder where there are no sidewalks). Don't stand in the street, watch for traffic, and don't clear drains that are in the middle of a street.
- Clear drains before the rain, whenever possible.
- Clear 10 feet on both approaches to the drain.
- Watch for standing water to avoid slipping or stepping on sharp objects.
- Make sure adults are supervising if children are helping.
- Clear surface debris only. Call PBOT Maintenance Dispatch 24/7 at 503-823-1700 for any emergency hazards or if the drain is still clogged after removing surface debris.
- Never lift storm drain grates. They are very heavy.
- Don't put leaves in the street. Place leaves and other organic material in your green compost bin for curbside pickup. If you have too much for the bin, simply use lawn bags and place them next to the roll cart for pickup (check with your hauler about fees for extra lawn bags). If there's trash in the drain, place this in your regular garbage bin, NOT in the compost.
If the drain is still clogged after you’ve removed the surface debris, please report it online at www.pdxreporter.org, call our 24/7 maintenance dispatch at 503-823-1700, or email pdxr...@portlandoregon.gov to report it.  Share your work with PBOT on social media by tagging @pbotinfo with your photos and videos! Thank you to all Portlanders who have "adopted" storm drains in their neighborhoods and help us keep them free and clear. |
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