About Us
The mission of the Stormwater Management Division (SWMD) is to advance the quality of life for the citizens of Howard County through the improvement and management of the quality and quantity of water that originates in, falls onto, or passes through the county on its way to the Chesapeake Bay.
Bureau of Environmental Services
Stormwater Management Division
9801 Broken Land Parkway
Columbia, MD 21046
410-313-6444
The Stormwater Management Division will accomplish our mission by:
- communicating to the public the value of clean water and the ways they can personally improve water quality,
- monitoring and maintaining our public and private storm water facilities,
- planning, implementing, and maintaining a program for good water resource management,
- partnering with individuals, citizen volunteers, local environmental groups, businesses, schools, and other government agencies in an effort to promote beneficial water quality management,
- responding to public inquiries and complaints in a courteous and timely manner, and
- evaluating and implementing technologies consistent with stormwater best management practices (BMPs).
Who should I contact?
If it is an emergency that requires immediate response, please call 911.
If you see anything other than stormwater flowing onto street surfaces or entering the County storm drain system, please report it immediately.
The Department of Planning and Zoning's Code Enforcement Office ensures compliance with Howard County Zoning Regulations, Subdivision and Land Development Regulations, Ellicott City Historic District Guidelines, and Lawyers Hill Historic District Guidelines. Any person who is aggrieved by an alleged violation may request in writing that the Department of Planning and Zoning issue a Violation Notice. Requests must be made in writing. Report a zoning violation.
- Check that your downspouts are directed away from your foundation.
- If you suspect there may be a broken water line, contact the Howard County Bureau of Utilities.
- If the groundwater table is high, contact the Howard Soil Conservation District to learn about your property’s soil conditions.
- If related to storm drain infrastructure, contact the Bureau of Highways.
- If related to the water or sanitary line, contact the Bureau of Utilities.
- All other inquiries, contact the Howard Soil Conservation District regarding groundwater and soil conditions.