Memphis Yard Drainage Ordinances & Runoff Rules

Environmental Protection Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Memphis, Tennessee homeowners must manage yard drainage and runoff to prevent pollution, nuisance flooding, and damage to neighbors. This guide summarizes local responsibilities, enforcement paths, and practical steps for compliance so property owners can reduce risk and respond to complaints effectively.

What the rules cover

The city addresses sources of stormwater runoff and prohibited discharges from residential property, including directing roof/downspout flows, grading that affects neighboring lots, and discharges to sewers or streams.

  • Direct roof and gutter discharge to infiltration where feasible.
  • Maintain grading to avoid directing water onto neighboring properties or public sidewalks.
  • Obtain required land-disturbance or stormwater permits for regulated work.
  • Prevent pollutants (soil, oil, yard waste) from entering storm drains or streams.
Address runoff at the source by diverting downspouts to lawn areas or rain gardens.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by the City of Memphis stormwater program and related code enforcement units; specific enforcement actions depend on the violation and the department involved.Stormwater program[1] and by the City Code Enforcement division for nuisance or property-related violations.Code Enforcement[2]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page[1].
  • Escalation: information on first, repeat, or continuing offence amounts is not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary orders: corrective orders or abatement directives may be issued; court action is a possible next step.
  • Enforcers: Stormwater Program and Code Enforcement (see contact links below).
  • Inspections: site inspections are used to document violations and require remedial measures.
If specific fine amounts are needed, request the enforcement policy or fee schedule from the cited department pages.

Applications & Forms

The City publishes permits for land disturbance and regulated stormwater work; exact form names, numbers, fees, and submission steps should be obtained from the Stormwater or Permitting pages linked below. If a specific form number is not shown on the cited page, it is not specified on the cited page.

  • Land-disturbance/stormwater permit: see Stormwater/Permitting pages for current forms and fees.[1]
  • Complaint submission: use Code Enforcement contact channels for nuisance drainage complaints.[2]

Common violations

  • Directing concentrated runoff onto neighboring property.
  • Illegal discharge of washwater, oils, or yard debris to storm drains.
  • Grading or filling without required permits.
Document conditions with photos and dates before contacting the city to support a complaint or appeal.

Action steps for homeowners

  • Assess and, if needed, reroute downspouts to lawn or approved infiltration areas.
  • Check whether proposed grading or fence work needs a land-disturbance permit.
  • Report pollution or persistent nuisance drainage to Code Enforcement or the Stormwater Program using the official contact pages below.
  • If you receive a notice, follow the corrective order, preserve records, and submit any appeal within the time limit stated on the notice (time limits not specified on the cited pages).

FAQ

Can I direct my gutters onto the street?
Generally, directing concentrated runoff onto the public street or storm drain is restricted; check the Stormwater Program guidance and local code.[1]
Who do I call for standing water affecting a neighbor?
Contact City Code Enforcement to report nuisance drainage; they can investigate and issue corrective orders if warranted.[2]
Are there exemptions for emergency work?
Emergency corrective actions to prevent immediate harm are typically allowed, but you should notify the relevant city department and confirm any required follow-up permits.

How-To

  1. Inspect your lot to identify where roof and surface runoff concentrates and where it leaves your property.
  2. Install simple measures like splash blocks, extension pipes, or rain barrels to reduce concentrated flow.
  3. If significant grading or construction is planned, consult the Stormwater/Permitting page to determine if a land-disturbance permit is needed.[1]
  4. If you receive a city notice, read it carefully, document the issue, and comply or submit an appeal within the deadline specified on the notice.
  5. Report unresolved pollution or code violations to Code Enforcement via the official contact route.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Manage downspouts and grading to prevent runoff nuisance and pollution.
  • Use official Stormwater and Code Enforcement channels for permits and complaints.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis - Stormwater Management
  2. [2] City of Memphis - Code Enforcement

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