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No, permanent or temporary structures cannot be built within the right-of-way.
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In order to do any work on a regulated ditch, you need to have the approval of the Drainage Board
If it is in a drainage way (ditch, swale, etc.) you may not block the flow. If it is sheet flow runoff (a wide path of water), you may do on your property whatever you want to do and if you create a problem for your neighbor it is your neighbor’s problem to deal with. In Indiana this is known as the "Common Enemy Drainage Law".
Indiana Drainage Law
Yes, with the permission of the Drainage Board. The County Surveyor will determine the culvert size and length. Once installed the property owner will be responsible for any maintenance on the culvert.
In order to do any work on a regulated ditch, you need to have the approval of the Drainage Board.
You need to notify the County Surveyor of your intent and then we will make a determination if the regulated drain can accept your water.
No, those salaries are paid out of the property taxes that you pay.
No, assessments go to a separate account for each regulated drain.
A regulated drain is an open ditch, drain tile, or a combination of both under the jurisdiction of the Drainage Board.
Since 1976, in St. Joseph County all subdivisions of three lots or more are required to petition to become an Urban Drain under the jurisdiction of the Drainage Board.
Drainage assessment rates are determined by the Drainage Board at a public hearing. Each person affected is sent a notice of the hearing. The Drainage Board sets the rates based upon the estimated yearly maintenance of the drain prepared by the County Surveyor.
You and your neighbors are responsible for the repair. You can request the Drainage Board to look at it and determine what the problem is. You need to fill out an application in the County Surveyor’s office. There is a fee attached with the application to cover any expenses involved.
Contact the County Surveyor’s Office at 574-235-7800.