Stormwater

The Stormwater Department is responsible for all comprehensive planning and management of the stormwater sewer distribution systems throughout the City of Valparaiso. The Stormwater Department works closely with a variety of other partners such as the Engineering Department, Utilities Department, and county and regional planning groups to improve drainage and enhance the quality of life in the community.


Stormwater Awareness Week

The 2025 Stormwater Awareness Week is happening September 22-26. This is a nationwide event focusing on improving stormwater knowledge, compliance, and environmental impact. More than 50 webinars are offered this week free of charge, covering current regulations, best practices, and innovative solutions. Whether you are in construction, industry, municipal work, or just passionate about clean water, it’s a great opportunity to learn, share, and take action for cleaner water and healthier communities. Get involved and explore the full schedule at www.StormWaterAwareness.org. 


Stormwater Ordinance and Technical Standards Manual Update

The updated Stormwater Ordinance has been adopted at August 12th, 2024 City Council meeting. Please find the Ordinance and Technical Standards Manual under the "Stormwater Ordinance and Technical Standards" section below. 


Drainage Concerns

If you have concerns over drainage at your property, please fill out the survey below. 

Stormwater Projects

Visit this page to learn about City of Valparaiso's Stormwater Master Plan and stormwater projects.

MS4 Program

MS4 stands for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems. The MS4 program is a federally mandated initiative which looks at maintaining and benefiting stormwater quality. According to the 2000 National Water Quality Inventory, approximately 40 percent of surveyed U.S. bodies of water are still impaired by pollution and do not meet water quality standards. A leading source of this impairment is polluted stormwater runoff from urbanized areas. Polluted runoff is discharged, often untreated, directly into local water bodies over land or via storm sewer systems. When left uncontrolled, this water pollution can result in the destruction of fish, wildlife, and aquatic life habitats; a loss in aesthetic value; and threats to public health due to contaminated food, drinking water and waterways. 

Browse the MS4 website to find out more about the program, how the City of Valparaiso is combating this problem, and what you can do to help.