FAQs

Stormwater

What happens when we get a rainstorm?

When the rain falls, it hits the roof tops, driveways, sidewalks, parking lots, roads and other hard surfaces within our community. These hard surfaces, unlike lawns, forest and natural areas, do not absorb any of the water, and it becomes runoff. The more intense the rain, the more runoff is produced. Left on its own, this runoff can flood streets and homes, put public safety at risk, damage private and public property, and cause harm to the environment.

What happens when we have melting snow?

During the winter time, snowfall can build up to significant amounts on the ground, and remain in place until warmer weather arrives. When this happens, the snow melts and the melting water becomes runoff and can cause similar problems as runoff from rainfall.

What is stormwater management?

Stormwater management is a way of managing runoff to reduce or prevent problems and allow our community to function normally during rain or snowmelt events. Stormwater management is a shared responsibility between the City of Brampton and the Conservation Authorities, which manages our rivers and streams.

Stormwater management is a shared responsibility between the homeowner, City, and the conservation authorities (CVC and TRCA). The homeowner is responsible for stormwater on their property, the City operates and maintains a municipal stormwater system to collect, transport and treat stormwater from properties, and conservation authorities are responsible for rivers and streams (or the City, depending on ownership of the river or stream corridor).

How can I stay safe near stormwater ponds in the winter?

Do not skate, sled or walk on stormwater ponds

Keep children and pets off the ice.
Stay on designated trails when walking near the pond.
Know where the lifesaving equipment is located.
Report any missing lifesaving equipment to 311.

Obey the signs

Stay off stormwater ponds.
Stay away from the shorelines of stormwater ponds.
In case of emergency call 911.
Download the what3words free mobile app for iOS and Android to use in case of emergency. For more information visit Brampton Fire and Emergency Services webpage.

The ice is thin & unsafe

There may be no visible signs of unsafe ice conditions.
Snow can hide holes and cracks in the ice.
The continuous flow of water and changing water levels can weaken and crack the ice.

The City of Brampton has lots of community rinks available throughout the City. For more information visit our Outdoor Skating webpage.

How can I stay safe near stormwater ponds in the summer?

Do not wade into, swim, fish, or boat in stormwater ponds at any time of the year.

Keep children and pets off the shoreline and out of the water.
Stay on designated trails when walking near the pond.
Know where to find the life-saving equipment.
Report any missing lifesaving equipment to 311.

Obey the signs

Stay out of stormwater ponds.
Stay away from the shorelines of stormwater ponds.
In case of emergency call 911.
Download the what3words free mobile app for iOS and Android to use in case of emergency. For more information visit Brampton Fire and Emergency Services webpage.

Stormwater ponds are unsafe!

Water levels can rise very quickly during rainstorms.
Stormwater is polluted and not suitable for swimming, boating, or fishing.
Shorelines can be slippery and unstable.

The City of Brampton has swimming pools and splash pads available throughout the city. For more information visit our swimming webpage.

General Stormwater Pond Safety Flyers

Winter Stormwater Pond Safety Flyers

Stormwater Charge

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