Drain Maintenance & Permit Forms

Drain Maintenance Processes

Maintenance on county drains can be done in three ways:

• Submit a petition by five property owners or a municipality.
• Spend up to $10,000 per mile each year on routine maintenance. An additional $5,000 per mile can be assessed for future maintenance.
• A municipality can pass a resolution to exceed the $10,000 limit.

According to the Drain Code of 1956, drain maintenance is funded through special assessments on properties and municipalities within a drainage district, not through the county’s general fund.

Hand Cleaning Program

Since October 2006, the Van Buren County Sheriff’s Department has helped maintain drains through a hand-cleaning program. This program removes trees, logjams, brush, and debris, using less invasive methods than heavy equipment. Regular maintenance reduces the need for large construction projects, saving costs in the long run.

Crossings and Culverts

Property owners are responsible for crossings and culverts on county drains. A permit from the County Drain Office is required for installation or replacement. The office will ensure proper sizing and installation. New crossings may also require a permit from EGLE (MDEQ). Please contact the Drain Office for confirmation.

Submit County Drain Permits to Josh Griffith, Chief Deputy at griffithj@vanburencountymi.gov.