Important Phone Numbers

• Emergency Information Hotline
  (415)485-5070
• American Red Cross (Marin)
  (415)721-2365
• Pacific Gas & Electric
  (800)743-5000
• NWS 24-hour Weather Information Line
  (831)656-1725

V-ditches on private property

What is a “V-ditch”?

A “V-Ditch” is a concrete channel that is mostly found at the base of a hill to collect drainage before the water reaches a resident’s property. That water is then channeled to a drainage box.

Who is responsible to maintain “V-ditches” clear of debris?

It is imperative that v-ditches are maintained clear of debris so that water can easily flow through them during a storm event. For all v-ditches on private property, it is the responsibility of the private property owner to keep them clear.

• Remove any leaves, sticks, rocks
• Don’t build any structures over your v-ditch
• Keep the drain clear from any obstructions such as chicken wire or rebar, as this can cause flooding very quickly

Storm easements

What is a storm easement?

When a drainage facility can only be accessed by private property, the City is granted a storm easement over that private property — which means the City may access the drainage facility using private property.

What happens if the homeowner is not around to let the City in, in the event of an emergency or non-emergency?

Property owners are responsible to provide the City access through the easement. Failure to do so could leave the homeowner liable for any damages that occur to surrounding properties. We ask that gates and access be left open for emergency access during the rainy season.

What are the responsibilities of private property owners in maintaining an easement?

It is the homeowner’s responsibility to keep the easement clear from clutter or vegetation and to also help monitor the easement for any potential problems.