Controlling stormwater

Stormwater is rainwater and meltwater that accumulates on impervious surfaces such as roofs and roads. Storm water can cause urban flooding and reduce water quality in water bodies. 

In built-up areas, stormwater is managed by draining water away through a stormwater system and by delaying water runoff through permeable surfaces, vegetation and, for example, constructed wetlands.

Stormwater system

In the city centre and surrounding areas, much of the land is paved with impermeable materials such as asphalt and concrete, which prevent rainwater and meltwater from soaking into the ground.  In addition, the clay soil in the area is poorly permeable to water.

This is why, in densely built-up urban areas, stormwater is discharged into the stormwater network. Heavy rainfall can cause sewers to flood, and with more frequent heavy rainfall due to climate change, the problem is predicted to increase.

In less densely built areas, stormwater is also discharged into open ditches and can be slowed down, for example by wetlands. Streams in the city, such as Kuninkoja and Jaaninoja, are an important part of the city's stormwater system.

The city is responsible for the stormwater system, but the city and property owners share responsibility for its operation and maintenance.

Turku has no separate stormwater charge. 

The property owner is responsible for part of the maintenance of the street area. The responsibility also applies to the maintenance of the stormwater system. Read more: Katujen kunnossapito

Maintenance includes among other things:

• the removal of leaves, soil, and debris from the covers of stormwater drains
• the removal of clogging material from culvert openings
• driveway maintenance
• keeping the snow and ice away from street ditches, gutters, culverts and stormwater covers during the winter.
   

You can utilize stormwater on your own property

• collecting rainwater in barrels for irrigation
• by keeping the yard unpaved
• by favouring rich vegetation
• with green roofs