The City of Punta Gorda is dedicated to managing stormwater and drainage to protect our homes, roadways, and the natural environment. A key part of this effort is our city-wide drainage system and our commitment to the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) program. 

Our Drainage System

Much of our community relies on a system of roadside swales to manage excess stormwater. These shallow, grassy areas along the road collect and carry runoff. Unlike underground pipe systems, swales also help to filter and absorb water, which helps keep our canals clean and replenish our aquifers. Swales are expected to retain small amounts of water after rain as the water percolates. A swale is only considered to be malfunctioning if water persists for more than 72 hours after the most recent rain event. During the rainy season, swales may be wet for weeks.

Public Works crews maintain  common drainage areas by clearing blockages at inlets and removing sediment from inlet basins and pipes so that water can flow freely. Crews inspect drainage swales annually.

Properly maintained swales are crucial for effective drainage. Here's how you can help:

• Avoid Over-Watering and Fertilizing: The swale is the lowest part of your yard and will naturally collect moisture and nutrients.

• Keep Culverts Clear: Remove any sod or debris blocking the flow of water in pipes and culverts.

• Dethatch Your Lawn: Annually dethatch Floratam lawns in the spring to remove dead vegetation.

• Don't Drive or Park in Swales: This can create ruts and block water flow, especially when the ground is wet.

• Properly Dispose of Debris: Never pile vegetation, chemicals, or other pollutants in the swales. 

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES)

The City of Punta Gorda participates in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), a federal program under the Clean Water Act. This program, administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, regulates stormwater discharge to protect our state's waters.

Stormwater runoff can pick up pollutants like fertilizers, pesticides, and automotive fluids as well as debris, such as plastics and trash, carrying them directly into our canals and Charlotte Harbor. This can harm marine life, contaminate shellfish, and damage our beautiful waterways.

As part of our NPDES permit, the City of Punta Gorda is responsible for:

• Monitoring and managing stormwater discharge.

• Educating the public about stormwater pollution.

• Enforcing regulations to prevent pollution.