​​​​​​​Why does the City clean catchbasins?

As stormwater runoff flows across surfaces like asphalt, concrete and gravel on roads, parking lots, and driveways, it collects pollutants such as dirt, sand, brake dust, metals, and other hazardous substances. This contaminated runoff typically flows to the nearest catchbasin, where heavier pollutants settle at the bottom for temporary storage. The remaining runoff then drains into the storm sewer system. Over time, the accumulation of pollutants at the bottom of the catchbasin builds up and needs to be removed to maintain efficient stormwater management and prevent potential bloackages.

How is catchbasin cleaning prioritized in Brampton?

The City inspects and cleans catchbasins each year to remove the stored pollutants. The inspection involves removing the grates from the surface of the road, measuring the depth of stored pollutants, and where required, removing the material using vacuum trucks. Catchbasin cleaning is prioritized in locations where more pollution is produced such as in industrial and commercial areas.

Other important activities that help maintain the catchbasins and stormwater drainage system are replacing missing, damaged, or ineffective maintenance hole covers, and uncovering paved over maintenance holes.

Removing pollutants from catchbasins

Each year, approximately 1,500 cubic metres of pollutants are removed from City-owned catchbasins - pollutants that would otherwise flow into local rivers and creeks. These pollutants could fill the cargo bed of over 880 pickup trucks.