Soak Up the Rain: Disconnect / Redirect Downspouts
Downspouts are often directed onto a paved surface, such as a driveway, which sends water directly into the street when it rains. Downspouts may also be connected to a pipe in the ground that connects directly to the sanitary sewer or storm drain system.
Downspout disconnection is the process of disconnecting the downspout from a pipe or the paved area. Water is then redirected to flow into a rain barrel or to a lawn or garden where it can soak into the ground. Redirecting downspouts to a landscaped area is a great way to help reduce runoff from a property.
Note: Downspout disconnection may not be appropriate for all locations. Consider local regulations and where the water will be directed to avoid property damage, unsafe conditions or other potential problems.
Information About Disconnect / Redirect Downspouts
Downspout Disconnection, Green Infrastructure, U.S. EPA
Local resources
Massachusetts
Downspout disconnections, allowing rain to drain to lawns, gardens, South Hadley, Massachusetts Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (pdf)
Fact sheet on why and how to disconnect a downspout from the sewer system
Vermont
Stormwater Disconnection, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (pdf)
Fact sheet on the concept and advantages of disconnection.
Absorb the Storm - Create a Rain-friendly Yard and Neighborhood, Lake Champlain Sea Grant, University of Vermont Cooperative Extension (pdf)
Discusses a number of steps homeowners can take, including downspout disconnection, to help prevent the problems associated with runoff.
How to redirect a Downspout, Lake Champlain Program
Step-by-step instructions, with pictures, on how to redirect a downspout
Downspout directs rain to the driveway and street
Downspout directs rain to landscaped area
Downspout directs rain to rain barrel
Roof runoff directed to a rain garden
