City of Sioux City website
Home MenuAdopt A Storm Drain / Storm Drain Marking
Storm Drain Marking
Storm drain marking - volunteers needed!
The City of Sioux City storm drain marking program is a way for volunteer groups to complete a hands-on service project and educate the public on the importance of preventing pollution in stormwater and the connection to our local waterways.
The help prevent dumping in our City's storm drains, volunteers adhere markers to intakes as a reminder to residents that all stormwater flows to a waterway without treatment. Volunteers may contact the Environmental Services Division at (712) 279-6222 to schedule a time for a short training and project date/time and location. Brochure is available at our office located at City Hall, 4th floor, room 405.
Watch an amazing story that was in the Sioux City Journal on June 20, 2025 here. Video may be accessed online.
Adopt a Storm Drain
The city welcomes volunteer assistance on an ongoing basis to help keep residential storm drains free from pollutants by removing debris and trash from local streets and sidewalks. Those who adopt a storm drain(s) are encouraged to mark them with a "do not dump" emblem or may paint an informational marking to remind residents that stormwater runoff from our lawns, streets, parking lots, and buildings, ends up in our local waterways. Rainwater can collect debris and chemicals from driveways, roads, and other impervious surfaces as it washes into storm drains. Pet waste containing bacteria and parasites can also be washed into storm drains from the grassy areas along the street curbs. This can be devastating to native wildlife and can clog pipes, leading to flooding and repairs. Maintaining our storm drains and marking them with messages indicating that water drains to nearby streams and creeks discourages residents from dumping hazardous pollutants and can improve our city's water quality.
In addition to the Adopt-A-Storm Drain Program, you can help to reduce water pollution by purchasing a rain barrel(s) to reduce runoff, by cleaning up after oil and gas spills in your driveway from cars and lawnmowers, and by sweeping up grass clippings and leaves from the street and sidewalks. Visit the Iowa Stormwater Education website to learn more about ways to reduce runoff into storm drains.
HOW TO PARTICPATE
- Choose a Location
Storm drains should be located in residential areas with speed limits of 25 mph or less. Near your home, school, church or business.
- Request Adopt-A-Storm Drain Guide for Participation
Complete the form below to volunteer for Adopt-A-Storm Drain and receive guide. Once you have applied you will receive an email confirming your application.
- Review Adopt-A-Storm Drain Instructions & Safety Protocols
Be sure to look over the safety requirements and drain maintenance instructions before embarking on your Adopt-A-Storm drain outing.
- Complete Your Paint or Decal Marking of the Storm Drain
Contact Environmental Services at 712-279-6222 for information on supplies and design approval.
- Document Your Adopt-A-Storm Drain Marking by Sharing a Picture
Help us keep track of which drains have been maintained and/or marked around town by submitting a photo with specifics on your location. This data helps the city map storm drains which still need to be maintained and/or marked. In doing so, it gives us a better understanding of where to encourage other volunteers to participate in the city. Send the photo to the Environmental Services Program Manager.
- Return Adopt-A-Storm Drain Marking Supplies
Supplies can be returned to City Hall following the completion of your Storm Drain marking project. Schedule a time for drop off of supplies with Environmental Services at 712-279-6222.