The Law about Drainage

Overview of Drainage Law in Alabama and How the Law Impacts Municipalities

Excerpts from the article, reference below:

“Alabama municipalities may be held liable for damages caused by their negligence in operating and maintaining public sewers and drains.” (p 31)

“if the expense is for a public purpose, a county, city or town may contribute public funds for construction or repairs on private property.” (p 31)

“If a municipality has incorporated waterways into their drainage system, the municipality may then have a duty to maintain the natural waterway.” (p 32)

“It must be shown that the water from the City’s drainage system, rather than the natural drainage of surface water, caused the damage.” (p 32)

Corley, P.E., Danielson, A.B., & Brasher, L. (2020) Overview of Drainage Law in Alabama and How the Law Impacts Municipalities, The Alabama Municipal Journal, Fall, 31-33.

Mr. Corley is the Hoover City attorney.