- Can my neighbor drain his/her water onto my property?
No one can alter natural drainage. If it is altered and adversely affects the drainage, the property owner will have to file a civil lawsuit for damages for relief to remedy the situation.
- Can your office help with my well and septic?
No. The information can be obtained from the Environmental Health Department. They can be contacted at 570 Marshall Road, Coldwater, or call 517-279-9561.
- Does the Drain Commission office determine wetlands?
No. Wetlands are under the jurisdiction of Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. They may be contacted at 269-567-3567 or their website.
- I have standing water in my yard. Should I call the Drain Commissioner?
No. The Drain Commissioner only maintains dedicated county drains. It is the responsibility of the property owner to drain his or her water to a public outlet.
- How can I have my County Drain cleaned?
Contact the Drain Commission office (279-4310). The drain commissioner and staff will assist you. It may require an on-site inspection prior to the issuance of a work order or determining the possibility of a petition project.
- How do I know if the ditch on my property is a County Drain or a private ditch?
You may contact the drain office (279-4310) and provide your property location by identifying your township and section or may visit the office and view the drain maps personally.
- Is the drain in front of my house next to the road a county drain?
Probably not. Most roadside drainage (ditches) is under the jurisdiction of the Branch County Road Commission and they may be contacted at 517-278-2022.
