Detention basins and retention ponds

What is a detention basin?  

A detention basin holds water when it rains and allows the water to completely drain.

What is a retention pond?  

A retention pond is a permanent pool of water that helps improve water quality by treating stormwater runoff. A retention pond holds water all the time. It does not drain within a few days of a rainstorm.

Detention basins and retention ponds must be maintained through maintenance and repairs, as needed. Fences, gazebos, swimming pools and sheds are not allowed to be located in a detention basin or retention pond area.

Homeowner responsibilities

  • Mowing
  • Litter removal
  • Algae removal
  • Small tree limb removal
  • Landscaping

City Government responsibilities

  • Repairing severe erosion
  • Removing excess silt
  • Removing large debris, such as trees
  • Repairing broken structures

What are the requirements for commercial and industrial property owners?

All structural and non-structural maintenance of storm water control on commercial or industrial property is the responsibility of the property owner. If there are any maintenance or repair concerns that need to be fixed, the property owner will be notified by Lexington’s Division of Water Quality.

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