What is a swale?
Swales are long, narrow depressions that can be along sidewalks, streets, parking lots, and driveways that filter pollutants, prevent erosion, and store water during storms. Swales need regular maintenance to function correctly.
Why are swales important?
Florida is prone to flooding during tropical storms, hurricanes and the rainy season. Proper stormwater management is crucial to provide positive conveyance, conserve water and prevent pollution. A properly designed and functioning swale significantly contributes to good stormwater management.
What is a plastic swale liner?
A plastic swale liner is placed at the bottom of the swale to remove stormwater through the system.
What is a stormwater assessment fee?
Our stormwater assessment fee contributes to drainage infrastructure and ongoing maintenance including canals, including things such as canals, culverts, lakes and ponds, swales, pump stations and control structures. Funds help operate and maintain these facilities in Port St. Lucie. A percentage of the fee supports the installation and cleanings of swale liner. Everyone contributes to the stormwater fee including commercial businesses.
Will the City still install swales?
The City will continue to install and repair residential swales throughout the City and the swales will include swale liner.
Is swale liner required for new construction?
New construction will require a plastic swale liner. Contractors working in Port St. Lucie can pick up the liner at Building #4, 450 SW Thornhill Drive, between 8-11 a.m. and 12-2:30 p.m. You must bring a copy of your approved plot plan (home survey) and completed stakeout for each address to the Thornhill warehouse for pick up. The copy must be stamped, approved, and signed by the Public Works Department.
Whose responsibility is it to maintain swales?
Swale maintenance is a landowner's responsibility. Property owners are to maintain that portion of the street/road right-of-way from the edge of the pavement to the owner's property line. (Code Ordinance Sec. 41.08). The City will continue to perform supplemental maintenance to the level of service the residents currently have until further direction from the Council is in place.
What happens to the status of my 1PSL request for swale liner installation or repair?
We understand that the purpose of your request was to bring attention to the lack of the plastic liner within your swale. We will be reviewing each of these requests and utilize the information to help formulate the swale re-work program. Your request will be considered as part of the prioritization process as the City phases the swale re-work program.
There is water in my swale, what should I do?
It is normal for water to be in the swale area, especially during rainy season (May-November). Please allow seven days without further rainfall for the water to recede before submitting a request for service. Outside of rainy season, most stormwater will recede within three days.