Flood Control Program

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Program Description
The flood control program maintains all storm drain facilities and creeks within the City and coordinates emergency response during heavy storms. Program goals are 1) a well-designed and well-maintained storm drainage system which prevents loss of life and minimizes property damage from flooding and 2) a creek system maintained in its natural state. This program has two major activities:

Storm drain and creek maintenance
Cleaning and maintaining creeks and storm drainage facilities; constructing various improvements to stabilize creek banks; locating underground storm drainage facilities for Underground Service Alert; coordinating cooperative creek maintenance among property owners and public agencies; inspecting waterways passing through private property for litter and pollution.
Storm emergency response
Responding to calls for emergency assistance during and after heavy storms; distributing sandbags during heavy storms.

For more information on how to prepare for winter storms, please see our Get Ready SLO pages.These includes a Winter Weather Guide, a Flood Preparation Guide, Sand Bag information and SLO's Flood Zone Map. Visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) site for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Expand/Contract Questions and Answers

What is Winter Weather Preparedness?
For more information on preparing for the winter storms and protecting your property visit our Get Ready SLO pages!
Where can I find more flood information?
For information about winter preparedness or protecting your property from flooding, visit our Get Ready SLO pages or call Public Works at 781-7200 for more information.
Does the City have a map showing flood zones?
Yes! We have an interactive map on our Get Ready SLO pages where you can select the type of information you'd like to see or call Public Works at 781-7200 for more information.

If you are interested in Flood Zones, Flood Insurance, or developing in a flood zone contact Development Review at 781-7015.
What is the schedule for creek and storm drain maintenance?
The City inspects the major creeks and minor waterways each year before the rainy season. That way, work can be performed each year before the rains come down.
Who is responsible for creek maintenance?
It depends. The creeks through the city are mostly on private property, so each individual owner has a responsibility to make sure the creek is not obstructed with growth or debris. However, the City has identified certain locations that regularly cause problems and has taken on the responsibility of cleaning and maintaining them.
How can I get information on creeks in general?
You should contact the Development Review Division by calling 781-7015.
How can I find out what creek improvements are planned?
We are working on an online project list, but in the meantime please contact the Public Works Engineering Division by calling 781-7200.
How can I find out more on preparing for the winter storms?
Please visit our Get Ready SLO pages for information on winter weather and flood preparedness.

City of San Luis Obispo, CA

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Flood Control Program

What is Winter Weather Preparedness?

Where can I find more flood information?

Does the City have a map showing flood zones?

What is the schedule for creek and storm drain maintenance?

Who is responsible for creek maintenance?

How can I get information on creeks in general?

How can I find out what creek improvements are planned?

How can I find out more on preparing for the winter storms?