Bolesławiec City Hall:
Therefore, rainwater must be managed within one’s own plot. This is an obligation that not everyone knows about or remembers.
Under applicable law, rainwater runoff from a property may not be directed onto neighboring plots or public roads. Rainwater must be managed on one’s own unpaved land, directed into soakaway wells, or stored in retention tanks located on the owner’s property.
It also happens that property owners decide to illegally discharge rainwater into stormwater or sanitary sewers. Such practices generate additional costs for the institutions responsible for the stormwater or sewer network and, during particularly heavy rainfall, increase the risk of overloading and damaging the network.
It is also prohibited to pump accumulated rainwater onto neighboring properties, including road properties. Pumping groundwater flooding basements onto streets is likewise prohibited. At the same time, we remind you that any alteration to the terrain requires a permit.
If rainwater is directed onto a neighboring property, whether unintentionally or deliberately, an inspection by the appropriate supervisory authority may be expected—in this case, the Poviat Building Supervision Inspector. The inspector may order restoration of the previous condition and impose a fine. In addition, the injured party is entitled to compensation for any damage caused.
An inspection of properties for illegal connections may take place at any time, and such connections may result in a fine. Discharging rainwater onto a public road may also result in liability.
And adds:
At the same time, we appeal for the immediate removal of any irregularities found on the property concerning rainwater drainage—illegal discharge onto neighboring properties—and for the cessation of any further violations.