Drainage Help
Montgomery County, Maryland

The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has two assistance programs pertaining to drainage issues associated with surface runoff from roads and other property owned and maintained by Montgomery County. One is for maintenance of existing storm drain systems and the other is for addressing communities’ requests for drainage improvements.

The Division of Transportation Engineering (DTE) administers and manages the County’s Drainage Assistance Request Program. The purpose and goal of this program is to solve drainage problems where there is no storm drain system or the existing system is failing or is inadequate. Through this program, the Design Section receives and addresses requests for assistance to correct drainage problems where the runoff water originates from the public Right-of-Way.

River Falls Drainage Study

Twinbrook/Rockcrest Flood Study
Twinbrook Flood Study at Rock Creek Woods Apartment
Appendicies - Twinbrook Flood Study at Rock Creek Woods Apartments
Drainage Brochure
Drainage Brochure

Evaluation Criteria Evaluation Criteria

Response by DTE will begin after receiving your request. After all the necessary information about the request is received, the following steps are taken:

  • Investigate the nature and cause of the problem.
  • Determine if it should be included as a DAR Project, or
  • Refer to another appropriate agency responsible for this issue.
  • If a DAR project, calculate the size of the watershed, where the water originates and surface water flow characteristics.
  • Verify the number of properties being affected and extent of damage being caused by runoff, as well as cost/benefit ratio.
  • Review the existing drainage system in the area and potential needs for upgrades.
  • Determine availability of Right-of-Way or easements and needs for easements.
  • Determine if the problem can have a "spot solution" or a comprehensive Capital Improvement Project (CIP) is needed.
  • If a "spot solution," develop design and schedule work with a construction contractor.
  • If a CIP, prioritize and include in the list of projects for recommendation as CIP projects for County Executive and County Council approval.
  • Notify the citizen what action is being taken.

Drainage System Maintenance Request

For drainage concerns on existing storm drain systems where maintenance is needed, such as clearing of debris from inlets, storm drain pipes, and/or drainage channels, re-establishment of drainage channels which may have eroded or silted up over time, water ponding on roads (puddles, potholes), or reconstruction of roadside curbs, please contact

E-mail: [email protected]

Procedure for Requesting Drainage Assistance

A request for assistance can be initiated by completing the Drainage Request Form, a telephone call, e-mail, FAX or letter to the Design Section of the Division of Transportation Engineering (DTE). A County staff knowledgeable in surface runoff issues will review the request in a timely manner. After the review has been completed, you will receive an explanation of the review findings and proposed action.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 240-620-9115