Catch Basins

The Department of Public Works’ maintenance department is responsible for cleaning and clearing catch basins of debris. There are approximately 72,000 catch basins in the City. 

View the catch basin status map

Organize a Storm Drain Cleaning and Marking Event with the Sewerage & Water Board.

Freqently Asked Questions

What can I do to keep my catch basin unclogged?

Residents can help keep catch basins clear of debris by disposing of leaves and other yard waste properly. Proper yard waste disposal includes placing leaves, sticks and twigs in garbage bags, tying the garbage bag closed, placing the garbage bags in City-issued receptacles and closing the lid of the garbage can.

Used motor oil should be disposed of at an authorized drop-off site, not down catch basins.

I’ve submitted a 311 case already. When will my catch basin be cleaned?

DPW Maintenance is currently addressing a significant backlog of requests. In general, we prioritize cleaning catch basins based on 311 cases. When a vacuum truck is dispatched to a specific catch basin location, the crew will also inspect and/or clean other catch basins in the block. Catch basin cleaning crews are dispatched to each council district weekly.

In general, there are four vacuum trucks working daily in the City. While DPW’s typical budget allows us to clean about 7,000 catch basins a year. The 2019 budget is allowing us to purchase two additional vacuum trucks which will increase our annual goals and allow us to clean between 10,000 – 12,000 catch basins per year.

My catch basin appears to be clear but I’m still experiencing flooding, why?

Catch basins are connected to a number of underground pipes that lead to pumping stations. A clogged or damaged pipe could be the source of the issue. Please call 311 or visit nola.gov/311 to report street flooding and DPW will inspect.

How do I report clogged catch basins ?

You can call 311 to report a clogged catch basin. The 311 Customer Service Agent will take down the nearest physical address of the catch basin, and issue you a ticket number. That ticket will then be sent to the Department of Public Works for assessment.

How do I get my catch basin cover replaced?

You can call 311 or report a clogged catch basin online at nola.gov/311 to report a clogged catch basin. The 311 Service Request will require the nearest physical address of the catch basin, and a service ticket number will be issued. That ticket will then be sent to the Department of Public Works for assessment.