What the City Does for Clean Water

Kirkland’s Storm & Surface Water Division ensures the proper maintenance and operation of all public and private drainage systems within the city. These drainage systems are constantly evolving as new development and redevelopment occurs. Kirkland's Storm & Surface Water Division is responsible for:

• 427 miles of pipes and culverts 
• 15,615 catch basins or storm drains
• 1,102 detention tanks and vaults
• 36 miles of stream, 3 large lakes, and over 400 acres of wetland.

The City works with property owners to ensure routine inspection and maintenance of all private stormwater systems. Proper maintenance ensures the system continues to function as designed. It also helps keep our creeks and lakes clean, and helps prevent flooding and erosion.

Visit the Private Stormwater Maintenance Program to learn more about the inspection process for your property. 

With support from the Department of Ecology, the City works with businesses to prevent pollution to our creeks, wetlands, and lakes. City code (KMC 15.52.090-110) requires businesses to put in place best management practices (BMP’s) to prevent pollution. The King County Pollution Prevention Manual describes these BMP's. 

Learn how you can prevent pollution at your business. 

Business Inspection Process

Learn about current and recent City projects to improve the health of our creeks, lakes, and wetlands, reduce flooding, and ensure the proper operation of stormwater systems in Kirkland.