Drainage Complaint
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I file a drainage complaint?
If the location of the drainage concern is within the Village of Caledonia, a drainage complaint could be filed by
submitting a form available online at https://caledonia-wi.gov/engineering-0 . Forms should be submitted in
person or emailed to tlazcano@caledonia-wi.gov When filing the complaint, it is important to provide as much
detailed information about the concern as possible. Not all complaints result in an investigation, but complaints
such as “someone upstream has diverted flow” are rarely resolved because the field investigator does not have
enough information to know where to start looking, and has limited ability to enter private property without
permission. Providing information about the specific location and/or source of the problem is critical. If a
flooding incident is being reported, it is important to provide the date and time of flooding, the direction from
which the water came, and the approximate depth of flow.
If we determine a field visit is appropriate, and you have requested to be present at the time of the inspection, the
field investigator will contact you to schedule a meeting. You may be contacted for additional information even
if you have not requested a field meeting.
What types of complaints are commonly investigated?
The Village of Caledonia investigates drainage complaints for most single-lot drainage issues. These are
situations in which an individual has done something on their property that may adversely impact a neighboring
property. Typical examples of this type of complaint are filling in or altering a wash, constructing a wall or berm,
installing a culvert, or otherwise diverting or obstructing flow that may result in flooding or erosion on a
neighboring property.
Examples of drainage issues that the Village does not have the authority to regulate include preventing water from
a neighbor’s roof from entering your property; swimming pool drainage; and diversions such as grading of
easements and driveways, placement of landscaping, etc. that occur within large areas that have been identified as
subject to sheet flooding.
How will I be notified of the outcome of my drainage complaint?
Only if your drainage complaint results in the identification of an Ordinance violation and initiation of the
enforcement process will you be notified. During the enforcement process, you are welcome to contact us
at any time for a status update.