Chapter XII · Public Property

Article 3. Road Right-of-Way; Culvert and Ditches

Sections 12-301 to 12-307 · 7 sections

12-301 Purpose.

To establish uniform standards for the installation, maintenance, and regulation of culverts and drainage ditches within public rights-of-way in the City of Overbrook, Kansas, ensuring safe access, proper drainage, and protection of public infrastructure.

(Ord. 451)

12-302 Definitions.

Right-of-Way (ROW): Land reserved for public roads and utilities.

Culvert: A pipe or structure allowing water to flow under a road or driveway.

Ditch: A channel dug to carry water away from roads and properties.

Property Owner: The legal owner of land adjacent to the ROW.

(Ord. 451)

12-303 Installation of culverts and ditch work.

(a)No culvert may be installed within the ROW without a permit from the Planning and Zoning Board or designated official.

(b)Culverts must meet city specifications for diameter, material, and length.

(c)Property owners requesting a new entrance or culvert must:

(1)Submit a site plan.

(2)Pay for the culvert.

(3)Obtain approval before any work begins.

(d)No person shall make any alterations, adjustments, or modifications to any ditch or drainage feature located within the public right-of-way without first obtaining a permit from the Planning and Zoning Board or a designated city official.

(Ord. 451)

12-304 Maintenance responsibilities.

(a)The City shall maintain culverts installed as part of public infrastructure projects.

(b)Property owners are responsible for maintaining culverts installed for private access unless otherwise agreed upon.

(Ord. 451)

12-305 Unauthorized work.

Any culvert or ditch work performed within the public right-of-way without a valid permit shall be subject to the following enforcement actions.

(a)Mandatory court appearance for the party responsible.

(b)Removal or correction of unauthorized work at the property owner’s expense.

(Ord. 451)

12-306 Drainage and safety standards.

All culverts and ditches must:

(a)Ensure unobstructed water flow.

(b)Prevent erosion and flooding.

(c)Be inspected by the City Maintenance Department or the Planning and Zoning Administrator upon completion.

(Ord. 451)

12-307 Appeals and variances.

Property owners may appeal decisions or request variances through the Planning & Zoning Commission.

(Ord. 451)