Stormwater Management 

Overview

The City of Destin is surrounded by water.  The City's beaches, boating, fishing, and seafood are some of the best in the United States.  Destin averages 69 inches of rainfall each year, making stormwater runoff a major concern. Where the water travels and what is in the water are important questions to ask.

Where Water Goes


After it rains, stormwater runs off roadways, lawns, and common areas, and is directed into the soil by the use of swales. Swales are shallow, graded, landscaped indentions that are typically located in the rights of way throughout the City of Destin. Swales can be located on both public and private property. Whenever work is performed in the right of way, a Right of Way permit is required. If swales are involved in Right of Way work, Community Development validates the sufficiency of the swale. Proper maintenance of swales is important to help prevent flooding.

What Contaminates the Water


When rain enters storm drains, it catches whatever is on the surface of the land and carries it directly into our local bays and the Gulf of Mexico. At least 50% of water quality problems in the United States result from polluted stormwater runoff. It is important to implement best management practices to better manage stormwater runoff to protect the waters in which we fish, swim, and play.

Here are examples of items that get flushed into our water:
  • Antifreeze
  • Car waxes
  • Cigarette butts
  • Degreasers
  • Detergents
  • Fertilizers
  • Motor oil
  • Grass clippings
  • Leaves
  • Pesticides
  • Pet waste

For More Information

 
For more information visit our Code Enforcement page. Report stormwater pollution to the City of Destin, Okaloosa County Public Works or to the State of Florida. Stay up to date on water quality in your area or neighborhood by checking your local water quality.