Water has a way of finding the weakest point in a home. In Allouez, that can mean gutters that overflow, sump pumps that work overtime, or snowmelt that sneaks toward your foundation. If you want to keep your basement dry and protect nearby rivers, a few smart steps go a long way. In this guide, you’ll learn how local stormwater systems work, what you can do at home, and who to call before you change grading or make connections. Let’s dive in.
Stormwater in Allouez: What to know
Allouez is served by a municipal storm sewer system that carries rain and snowmelt off streets and out to local waterways. This system is regulated under state and federal stormwater programs focused on preventing pollution and managing runoff volume. As a homeowner, your goal is to keep clean water soaking into your yard and keep polluted water out of drains.
Illicit discharges are prohibited. That means you should avoid sending anything but clean stormwater into storm drains. Do not direct soapy wash water, oil, fertilizer, or pet waste toward inlets or ditches. These pollutants harm local streams and can result in violations.
Construction and land disturbance can trigger permits. Larger projects often require erosion controls and approvals. Work in or near wetlands, ditches, streams, or shorelines may require state or federal permits. Before you change how water flows across your lot or connect to a public storm sewer, contact the Village of Allouez for guidance.
Keep water away from your foundation
Water at the foundation is the most common source of basement issues. You can prevent most problems by moving roof runoff away from your home and keeping grades correct.
Roof, gutters, and downspouts
Clean gutters and downspouts at least twice a year, preferably in spring and fall, and after major storms. Clogged gutters overflow and dump water right at your foundation. Add downspout extensions so water discharges 6 to 10 feet from the house onto permeable ground or a landscaped bed.
Use splash blocks or flexible extensions to direct flow away from the structure. Avoid discharging onto sidewalks where water can channel toward a neighbor or the street. Directing flows into a rain garden or vegetated area helps water soak in.
Site grading and soil drainage
Maintain a positive slope away from your home. A common rule of thumb is at least 6 inches of drop within the first 10 feet from the foundation. This pushes surface water away before it can enter the basement.
Fill low spots that collect water and repair depressions near the foundation. Use quality topsoil and healthy turf or native plants to promote infiltration. These simple fixes reduce ponding and protect finished spaces.
Hardscape and paved areas
Limit impervious surfaces where you can. Large driveways and patios shed water quickly and can send flow toward the house. If you plan updates, consider breaking up paved areas with planting strips or using permeable materials where allowed.
Direct runoff from driveways and patios toward vegetated swales or rain gardens. Avoid letting water shoot straight to the street or a storm drain where it can carry sediment and pollutants.
Add infiltration and green features
Small landscape changes can absorb roof and yard runoff while improving curb appeal. These solutions reduce the volume that reaches storm sewers and help filter pollutants.
Rain gardens
A rain garden is a shallow, planted depression that captures runoff and lets it soak into the soil. Native, water-tolerant plants handle both wet and dry periods. Place rain gardens downslope of downspouts or paved areas so they intercept flow.
Sizing and siting matter. Keep rain gardens a safe distance from the foundation and away from septic systems if applicable. For larger installations, confirm whether local approvals are needed before digging.
Permeable paving
Permeable pavers and porous surfaces allow water to pass through into a stone base and native soils. They are good choices for walkways, patio sections, or driveway bands if local codes permit. These materials reduce runoff and can ease icing in winter by draining meltwater.
Work with a qualified installer who understands subbase preparation, soil infiltration, and maintenance. If you are replacing or expanding hardscape, ask the Village about any permitting requirements.
Dry wells and infiltration trenches
Dry wells and trenches store roof runoff underground and release it slowly into the soil. They require attention to soil infiltration rates, groundwater depth, and overflow paths. Because these systems can change drainage, check with the Village before installation.
Regular inspection is important. Keep inlets free of debris and ensure overflow routes do not impact neighboring properties.
Sump pumps and basement protection
Sump pumps are a first line of defense during heavy rains or spring thaw. Where allowed, discharge to lawn areas, rain gardens, or an approved storm system connection. Many municipalities prohibit discharge to the sanitary sewer, so confirm local rules before making changes.
Consider a backup system. A battery or water-powered backup and a pump alarm can help you avoid flooding during power outages. Test the main pump and backup annually.
Interior and exterior waterproofing add resilience. Seal foundation cracks, maintain window well drains, and consult a licensed contractor for exterior membranes or drainage boards if you plan major work. Check valves or standpipes can help with sewer backup risk, subject to local approval.
Yard care and pollution prevention
Good housekeeping keeps storm drains clear and local rivers cleaner. Do not pile leaves or grass clippings in ditches or on top of storm inlets. Yard waste can clog systems and degrade water quality.
Apply fertilizers and pesticides sparingly and follow label directions. Sweep any material that lands on sidewalks or driveways back onto the lawn. Store oils, paints, and household chemicals properly and clean up spills promptly.
If you wash vehicles at home, avoid sending soapy water into the street. Choose a location where water can soak into turf or consider a commercial car wash.
Seasonal tips for Allouez
Fall leaf removal is vital. Leaves can plug gutters and nearby public catch basins quickly. Keep gutters clear and report blocked street inlets to the Village for maintenance.
Plan for snowmelt in winter. When shoveling or plowing, place snow where meltwater will flow away from the house and not bury storm drains. Reduce ice dam risk with proper attic insulation and ventilation to limit rooftop melting and refreezing.
Expect higher groundwater in spring. Saturated soils reduce infiltration and increase basement risk. Confirm your sump pump is working, downspouts are extended, and yard drains are clear before the thaw.
Quick maintenance checklist
- Spring and fall: Clean gutters and downspouts, verify downspout extensions, and confirm positive grading along the foundation.
- Monthly in rainy seasons: Look for erosion, clogged yard drains, and signs of concentrated flow near the house.
- Annually: Test sump pump and backup, inspect and seal foundation cracks, and service any infiltration systems.
- After big storms: Check for standing water, watch for sediment movement, and report blocked public catch basins to the Village.
Permits and who to contact
Before you alter grading, connect private drainage to a public storm sewer, or work near wetlands, ditches, or streams, contact the Village of Allouez. The Public Works, Engineering, and Building Inspection teams can advise on local ordinances, approved discharge locations, and erosion control for projects.
For technical help with soil infiltration, erosion control, rain garden design, or conservation cost-share programs, reach out to the Brown County Land and Water Conservation Department. They can also help with issues along county roads or county-managed waterways.
For statewide rules on construction stormwater permits and wetland or stream alterations, consult the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. For floodplain questions, flood insurance, and map information, use FEMA resources and your local floodplain administrator.
If you have sanitary sewer backup concerns or want to install backflow prevention devices, contact your utility or sanitary authority for code requirements. Always verify thresholds and permit steps with the issuing agency before starting excavation, grading, or substantial infiltration work.
Selling soon? Presentation and drainage
A dry, well-drained property shows better and gives buyers confidence. Simple steps like extending downspouts, cleaning gutters, and correcting grading are low-cost improvements that reduce inspection flags. Thoughtful landscaping such as rain gardens or permeable paths can add curb appeal while improving function.
If you are preparing to list in Allouez, consider a quick drainage review during pre-list prep. Document recent maintenance and any upgrades like backup sump pumps or exterior waterproofing. Clear, well-presented evidence of care helps buyers feel secure and supports stronger offers.
Ready to talk strategy for your Allouez home? For tailored pre-market guidance and a data-informed valuation, connect with the team at Sandra Ranck Real Estate Collective.
FAQs
What is the stormwater system in Allouez?
- Allouez uses a municipal storm sewer system that collects rain and snowmelt from streets and public areas, moving it to local waterways under state and federal stormwater regulations.
Can I send downspout water to the street?
- Avoid directing concentrated flows into the street or a storm inlet, especially if it causes sidewalk flooding or affects neighbors; discharge on your property or to approved connections as allowed.
Do I need a permit to regrade my yard?
- Minor landscaping is often fine, but changes that alter drainage patterns, disturb sensitive areas, or tie into public systems may require Village approval, so contact Allouez before you start.
How can I reduce basement water during storms?
- Start with clean gutters and extended downspouts, confirm positive grading, test your sump pump and backup, and check yard drains; consider foundation sealing if problems continue.
Who maintains a clogged street storm drain near me?
- The municipality typically maintains public catch basins; report blockages to the Village so crews can clear them safely and promptly.
Should I consider flood insurance in Allouez?
- It is worth reviewing FEMA flood maps and discussing coverage with your insurance agent because properties outside mapped high-risk areas can still experience flooding.
