What is a Stormwater Basin?
A stormwater basin is a structure designed to reduce the rate and volume of water flowing from storm drains, ditches, streets, and adjacent low-lying areas. The following lists the two most common types of basins utilized in the City of Reno:
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Detention Basins - These basins are depressed areas engineered to temporarily store stormwater runoff and slowly release it through downstream stormdrain infrastructure.
The above photo shows a detention basin where stormwater from the adjacent parking lot into the basin and out the bottom of the basin through smaller pipe(s), thereby "detaining" the stormwater and reducing peak flows due to increased impervious surfaces.
- Retention Basins - These basins are depressed areas engineered to collect and hold stormwater runoff, allowing it to slowly soak into the ground and evaporate.
The above photo shows a retention basin where stormwater from a residential neighborhood drains into the retention basin and slowly infiltrates into the ground, thereby "retaining" the stormwater and reducing the peak flow and volume of flows due to increased impervious surfaces.
Diagram of Hybrid Basin Type
The above diagram shows a typical detention/retention hybrid basin.
Stormwater Basin Inspection Program Overview
Established in January 2023, the Basin Inspection Program aims to improve stormwater management within the City of Reno and safeguard public safety by effectively managing stormwater and reducing the risk of flooding. The primary purpose of this program is to ensure that all constructed basins operate as originally designed, are appropriately maintained, and function properly to capture and treat pollutant generated from urban runoff. Through regular inspections, maintenance, and timely repairs, the program strives to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of stormwater management systems for long-term protection against floods and pollution, preserving public safety and environmental health.
Stormwater Basin Inspections
Inspection Process
- Map: Identify and map all privately and city-owned stormwater basins within City of Reno jurisdictional limits.
- Inspect: Assess the condition and functionality of flood control infrastructure.
- Reporting: Generating detailed inspection reports for basin owners.
- Monitor Compliance: Communicate with property owners on maintenance and repair requirements of their stormwater basins.
Inspection Criteria
Each basin is evaluated for:
- Damage
- Sediment and debris accumulation
- Vegetation growth
- Erosion
- Miscellaneous issues
Based on field assessments, required or recommended maintenance and/or improvements will be determined and documented in the basin inspection reports.
View more information on Basin Elements and Descriptions.
Inspection Schedule
The City of Reno inspector will assess the basin and assign a risk level, which will affect how often it is inspected. Based on the basin's risk assessment and storm event frequency, inspections can be done as often as once a year. High-risk basins are checked more frequently. Basin owners will receive periodic inspection reports in the mail.
After an inspection is conducted owners will receive a basin inspection report in the mail.
Public Basin Explorer Map
Basin owners can locate their individual basins and view surrounding storm drain infrastructure using our interactive map.
Access the map: View Public Basin Explorer
Regulatory Information
- City of Reno (COR) Land Development Code
- Truckee Meadows Regional Drainage Manual (TMRDM) (April 30, 2009)
- City of Reno Public Works Design Manual (PWDM) (January 2009)
- Authority: The City of Reno operates under RMC 18.04.304(h) to inspect and enforce regulations.