Report Clogged or Damaged Storm Drains - New York City

Utilities and Infrastructure New York 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York

In New York City, New York, clogged or damaged storm drains (catch basins) can cause local flooding, roadway hazards, and water pollution. This guide explains how residents and businesses can report clogged or damaged storm drains online, who enforces repairs, what penalties or orders may apply, and the practical steps to get a problem fixed quickly. Use the official online reporting channels to submit location details, photos, and contact information so agencies can respond and document the issue.

How to report a clogged or damaged storm drain

Report a problem to NYC 311 using the online portal or phone; include the exact street location, closest cross-streets, and a photo if possible. For issues that appear to cause pollution or repeated flooding, contact the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) directly. After you submit a report, 311 or DEP will triage and forward the request to the appropriate field crew or agency for inspection and repairs.

NYC 311 online report[1] and DEP Stormwater Management[2] explain what information to provide when you report a drain.

Photographs with a visible street sign speed up response.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement responsibility for storm drains and illegal discharges typically involves the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and enforcement via NYC administrative code and DEP rules. Specific monetary fines and penalty schedules for clogged or damaged storm drains are not summarized on the cited operational reporting pages; see the cited DEP and 311 pages for reporting channels and follow-up procedures.

  • Enforcer: New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for water/ stormwater issues; NYC 311 accepts and routes complaints to DEP or other agencies.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited pages for general clogged or damaged drains. See DEP rules or administrative code for pollutant discharge fines if applicable.[2]
  • Escalation: not specified on the cited pages; DEP enforcement may escalate for continuing or repeated violations under applicable rules or orders.
  • Non-monetary remedies: inspection orders, repair orders to property owners or responsible parties, referrals to environmental compliance units, and court actions where necessary.
  • Inspection and complaints pathway: file via NYC 311 or DEP reporting page; DEP schedules inspections and documents repairs.[1]
  • Appeals/review: specific appeal routes and time limits for enforcement actions are not provided on the public reporting pages; consult DEP enforcement notices or the administrative code referenced in enforcement correspondence for time limits.
If you believe a discharge is polluting waterways, report it immediately and note environmental harm.

Applications & Forms

No standalone public form number is required to report a clogged or damaged storm drain; use the NYC 311 online report or DEP problem-reporting page to submit details and photos. If DEP issues an enforcement order, any appeal or compliance form will be specified in that notice.

What to include in a report

  • Exact street address or nearest cross-streets and borough.
  • Clear photos showing the clogged or damaged drain and surrounding water flow.
  • Describe recent events (heavy rain, construction, illegal dumping) that may have caused the issue.
  • Your contact information for follow-up (optional but helpful).
Private property drains may require owner permission for inspection or repair work.

Action steps

  • Submit a report via NYC 311[1] or call 311.
  • If you suspect pollution or recurring issues, notify DEP through their stormwater page and provide photos.[2]
  • If the drain is on private property, contact the property owner or manager to arrange access for inspection and repairs.

FAQ

Who fixes a clogged storm drain?
The City (via DEP or the agency assigned through 311) will route and schedule repairs; private property drains may be the owner's responsibility.
How long until a reported drain is inspected?
Response times vary by urgency and workload; the reporting portal will provide a reference number and DEP or 311 may follow up with timing.
Are there fines for leaving a storm drain clogged?
Specific fines for clogged drains are not specified on the public reporting pages; DEP may take enforcement action under applicable rules for pollution or failure to comply with orders.

How-To

  1. Locate the drain and note the exact address or nearest cross-streets.
  2. Take clear photos showing the blockage or damage and any signage or landmarks.
  3. Submit the report through NYC 311[1] or use DEP reporting guidance on the stormwater page.[2]
  4. Keep the 311 reference number and any DEP correspondence; follow up if repairs are delayed.

Key Takeaways

  • Report clogged or damaged drains promptly through 311 to reduce flooding and pollution risk.
  • DEP enforces stormwater and pollution issues; fines and detailed enforcement procedures are referenced in enforcement notices or DEP rules.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] NYC 311 online reporting portal
  2. [2] NYC DEP Stormwater Management
  3. [3] NYC DEP report a problem

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