Storm Drain Maintenance Rules for Markham Residents

Utilities and Infrastructure Ontario 4 Minutes Read · published May 24, 2026 Flag of Ontario

In Markham, Ontario, homeowners and property managers share responsibility for keeping storm drains and roadside catch basins clear to prevent localized flooding and protect water quality. This guide explains who must maintain what, how the City enforces rules, how to report blocked drains, and practical steps residents should take after heavy rain.

Who is Responsible

Generally, the City maintains the public storm sewer network and curbside catch basins, while property owners are responsible for drains located on private property and the immediate frontage adjacent to their property. Confirm the exact boundary for maintenance on your property tax map or contact the City for clarification.[1]

If a storm drain on the road appears blocked, report it promptly to reduce flood risk.

Routine Maintenance Duties for Residents

  • Clear leaves, sediment and debris from private grates and surface drains on your property before peak fall and spring seasons.
  • Ensure landscaping, fences or structures do not obstruct access to drainage features that you are required to keep clear.
  • Record maintenance activities and keep photos when you remove debris after storms to document your efforts.
  • Schedule checks after heavy rainfall and during leaf-fall; consider monthly checks in autumn.

Stormwater Connections, Alterations and Permits

Any work that alters the connection between private property and the municipal storm system—such as modifying a swale, changing a gutter discharge point or installing private drain infrastructure—may require a permit. Contact the City’s permits unit to confirm application requirements and submission methods.[3]

Do not divert roof or sump discharges into sanitary sewers; use approved storm connections.

Penalties & Enforcement

The City enforces compliance through By-law Enforcement and Public Works. Specific monetary fines, escalation for repeat or continuing offences, and exact section numbers depend on the controlling municipal by-law or municipal code and are detailed on City pages and consolidated bylaws. Where a page does not list amounts or sections, those details are not specified on the cited page.[2]

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; see the City by-law information for exact figures and schedules.[2]
  • Escalation: first, repeat and continuing offence procedures are outlined by enforcement policy but specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: the City may issue orders to comply, undertake remedial work at the owner’s expense, and pursue Provincial Offences where applicable.
  • Enforcer and complaints: By-law Enforcement and Public Works handle inspection and complaints; report blocked public drains via the City reporting page.[1]
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and statutory time limits vary by enforcement instrument; specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited page.
  • Defences and discretion: the City may consider reasonable excuse, active remediation, or approved permits; exact defences and conditions are not specified on the cited page.
Keep records of maintenance and permit approvals to support your defence in enforcement matters.

Applications & Forms

Common applications include permits for storm connection changes or works within the road allowance. Check the City permits directory for names, fees and submission instructions; if a specific form is not published on the linked page, the page states that it is not specified.[3]

How to Report a Blocked or Damaged Storm Drain

  • Report public infrastructure issues online or by phone using the City’s report-a-concern system; include location, photos and urgency.[1]
  • If you suspect illegal dumping or hazardous materials obstruct a drain, contact By-law Enforcement immediately and follow any temporary safety instructions.

FAQ

Who fixes blocked drains at the curb?
Public curbside catch basins and public storm sewers are maintained by the City; report problems to the City so crews can inspect and clear blockages.[1]
Am I responsible if leaves from street trees clog a catch basin by my property?
Property owners should keep frontage drains clear; however, the City clears public infrastructure—report recurring issues so the City can inspect and advise.
Do I need a permit to change where my downspout discharges?
Altering a discharge to connect to the municipal storm system or to the road allowance may require a permit; consult the City permits unit for requirements.[3]

How-To

  1. Identify the drain or catch basin location and determine whether it is on private property or public right-of-way.
  2. Remove surface debris with gloves and a rake; avoid using strong pressure washes that flush sediment into the system.
  3. Document the condition with photos and note date/time; if the problem is public infrastructure, submit a report through the City system with your photos.[1]
  4. If structural repairs or changes are needed, contact the City permits office to confirm whether a permit is required before work begins.[3]

Key Takeaways

  • Markham maintains public storm sewers; property owners must keep private drains and frontage clear.
  • Report blocked public drains promptly via the City’s report-a-concern system to request inspection and clearing.[1]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Markham - Stormwater and drainage
  2. [2] City of Markham - By-law Enforcement
  3. [3] City of Markham - Permits and approvals

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