Storm & Surface Water

Dock on Lake Washington at sunset

Kirkland Public Works' Storm & Surface Water Division works to: 

  • Improve the health of our creeks, lakes, and wetlands,
  • Reduce flooding in our streets and neighborhoods, and
  • Ensure the proper operation of all public and private stormwater systems in Kirkland.

What is Stormwater?

An oil slick leading a creek with two children playing in the water. Text: Starts Here, Ends Here. Pugetsoundstartshere.org

Water that falls during a rainstorm or comes from melting snow is stormwater. Kirkland has many hard surfaces like roads, parking lots, rooftops, and driveways. These are called impervious surfaces and do not allow this water to soak into the ground. Water that falls on these surfaces becomes stormwater runoff. We also call this rainwater runoff.

Rainwater Story Map Visit our interactive Story Map to learn more about Rainwater in Kirkland, its impacts on water quality and our community, and how City of Kirkland and others are working to prevent and solve runoff-related problems.

 

 

Pollution

Stormwater runoff picks up pollutants like oil, chemicals, fertilizer, pet waste, and soap. It carries these pollutants to the nearest storm drain. In Kirkland, all storm drains lead to the nearest creek, wetland, or Lake Washington. Stormwater runoff is not cleaned or filtered before it reaches our waterways. It can damage habitat and water quality.

Learn how you can keep stormwater clean and prevent water pollution

Flooding

Stormwater runoff runs off developed land during the rainy season. As a result, this water can flood homes, businesses, and roads. Stormwater can also flood and damage creeks and wetlands needed for fish and other wildlife habitat.

Manage drainage and flooding around your property