Dear Residents of the RM of St. Clements,

With spring snowmelt approaching, proper drainage becomes especially important across our community. Each year the RM receives concerns about standing water in municipal ditches. While our Public Works team works hard to maintain and clean these ditches, one common cause of persistent water is sump pump hoses discharging directly into municipal ditches.

When sump pumps drain into ditches, it can keep them full longer than necessary. This slows natural drainage, creates stagnant water, encourages bulrush growth, and can increase mosquito breeding.

To help improve drainage throughout the RM, residents are reminded to follow the requirements outlined in the Lot Grade Bylaw, available on our website BY-LAW-NO.-17-2005-REGULATE-THE-GRADING-OF-PROPERTY-AND-TO-ESTABLISH-LOT-GRADE-ELEVATIONS-2.pdf

4.09 – Sump Pump Discharge Pipe
Sump pump discharge pipes must direct water away from the building and onto a splash pad or other approved method. Discharge must not flow onto neighboring properties or streets.

Keeping sump pump discharge within your own property helps reduce unnecessary water entering municipal ditches and allows them to drain more efficiently during the spring season.

The RM of St. Clements remains committed to addressing drainage concerns through surveys, ditch cleaning, and ongoing maintenance.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact our Drainage Coordinator at info@rmofstclements.com. To submit a drainage concern, please visit our public reporting system at Request for Service – St. Clements

Thank you for helping keep our community’s drainage system working effectively.