Stormwater
The City’s stormwater system is not connected to the City’s sewer system. As such, the City conducts a variety of activities focused on the prevention of stormwater pollutants entering the system.
The City is responsible for the design, construction, maintenance, and repair of the public stormwater system. These activities include maintaining stormwater pipes, catch basins (storm drains), water-quality facilities, street sweeping, emergency response, as well as public education and outreach.
To provide comment on any stormwater reports, policies, or permits, please complete this comment form.
Looking for a fun and educational activity the whole family can enjoy this spring and summer? Join us for Stormwater Bingo, a creative way to explore your community, learn about stormwater, and WIN FUN PRIZES—running from May through the end of August!
Stormwater Bingo is a great way to get outdoors, discover how stormwater impacts our environment, and complete exciting challenges along the way. You can pick up a Bingo card at City Hall, LORAC or the Library. You can also download and print your own card online!
Did you know that anything goes down a storm drain can end up in our local rivers, streams, and even the ocean? Our Storm Drain Marking Program helps raise awareness in the community by placing bright, visible markers on storm drains. These markers serve as reminders that only rain should go down the drain, preventing harmful pollutants from entering our water systems.
It is against the law to allow anything other than rain water to enter the stormwater drainage system.
The City’s Stormwater Management Manual (SWMM) provides guidance and standards for the placement, design, and maintenance of structures used to control runoff, reduce flooding, and prevent pollution from contaminating our local waterways. The manual applies to stormwater management design for public and private development and redevelopment within the City of Lake Oswego.
In 2025, the manual was updated based on stakeholder feedback and revised DEQ water quality requirements. The latest version of the manual is here.
Many pet owners don’t realize that dog waste isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a serious environmental pollutant. When left on the ground, especially in urban or suburban areas, dog waste doesn’t just disappear. It gets washed away by rain and irrigation into storm drains and local waterways, creating a chain of problems for ecosystems, public health, and water quality. Join Canines for Clean Water and take the pledge to keep our waterways clear of pet waste!
The City is committed to maintaining water quality through multiple programs required by Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).
The City has implemented a program which includes inspecting commercial and industrial properties/businesses to help prevent pollutant discharges into our local rivers and streams.
The Backyard Habitat Certification Program provides technical assistance and incentives to Lake Oswego residents who wish to restore native wildlife habitat in their backyards. Participants are guided through three levels of habitat restoration: silver, gold, and platinum.
Helpful stormwater information relevant to industrial and commercial properties
Lake Oswego is committed to protecting the environment of the city and the surrounding area through its Stormwater Management Utility. In an effort to further protect our water sources, Erosion Control Permits are required for construction projects. Read on to learn more.
Public Works is responsible for the day to day operation of the stormwater utility. These services include catch basin maintenance, street sweeping, stormwater facility maintenance and emergency utility services.
As leaves fall, storm drains can get blocked by debris, leading to localized flooding. These drains are vital for keeping streets and sidewalks clear of excess rainwater as well as maintaining stormwater quality standards. Simply clearing leaves and debris from the surface of catch basins near your property with a broom or rake can keep the drainage system functioning well.
The City has a limited number of free drop boxes available to support neighborhood clean-up events through a contract agreement with Republic Services. Neighborhoods can apply for a free drop box to help collect neighborhood leaves.
When it comes to draining your pool, hot tub, or other water features, proper disposal is essential to protect our environment. Never drain pool or hot tub water into storm drains catch basins, the road, your neighbor, or directly out to another body of water. Stormwater catch basins lead directly to local streams like Springbrook and Nettle Creek, where chlorine, bromine, and copper can seriously harm aquatic life. Instead, water should be drained into the sanitary sewer, the system designed to treat and manage chemical-laden water safely.
Stormwater Comment Form