Brooms to Basins

The Jefferson parish Drainage System includes a network of underground drainage pipes that allow rainwater to be transported to canals and then pumped out of inhabited areas. When debris, chemicals, trash, leaves, and other pollutants enter these outlets it impedes the drainage system and may cause street flooding. As we enter the rainy season, it is important to keep drains clear to avoid street flooding. With everyone's help we can improve the performance of the Jefferson Parish drainage system.

Here are some steps you can take to reduce street flooding and keep our drainage system working to its capacity:

1.     Keep grass clippings and branches from accumulating on streets near your property.

2.     Check catch basins near your home or building periodically and clear away debris.

3.     Do not leave grass, leaves, or other debris in the street.

4.     Do not dispose of yard waste into catch basins .

Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances:

Section 16.9

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to dump, throw, place or otherwise dispose of cut grass, weeds, trees, or tree limbs, trash, garbage or other debris in any drainage ditch, canal or drainage catch basin or pedestrian walkway in Jefferson Parish.

(b)It shall be unlawful for any person to dump, throw place or otherwise dispose of cut grass, weeds, trees, or tree limbs, trash, garbage or other debris in any drainage ditch, canal or drainage catch basin or pedestrian walkway in Jefferson Parish by the use of  a leaf blower, rake, broom or any other means, unless such debris is immediately thereafter removed from the street and containerized for composting or for proper removal and disposal in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 16 of the Code of Ordinances.

Section 16-9.2

(a) The dumping of trash, debris, greases, and oils such as  but not limited to cooking oil and fats, motor oil, antifreeze, solvents, truck and automotive fluids, paint, paint thinner and gasoline into catch basins, drainage culverts, lines, canals or any body of water is prohibited. This prohibition shall not apply to any activity permitted or authorized by a state or federal program.

(b) The penalty for violation of the part (a) above shall be a fine, as provided in L.R.S. 33.12438(2), not to exceed five thousand dollars.($5000.00)

Anyone who witnesses a violation of these parish ordinances should contact Jefferson Parish Department of Environmental Affairs 736-6440