Roads & Drainage Overview

Roads and Drainage - "Ensuring DeKalb County's Safety"

The Roads and Drainage Division of DeKalb County Public Works ensures safe, functional transportation and stormwater infrastructure throughout unincorporated DeKalb County. Our mission is "Ensuring DeKalb County's Safety" through comprehensive maintenance, repair, construction, and upgrades of:

  • 2,280 miles of county roadways (8,272+ streets)

  • Bridges and traffic control devices

  • Stormwater drainage systems

  • Detention ponds and water quality facilities

     

Our Responsibilities

  • Roadway Operation: Emergency response, winter weather clearing, pothole repair, and asphalt maintenance

  • Stormwater Management: Operating the county's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4)

  • Infrastructure Maintenance: Bridge repairs, traffic control devices, and drainage structures

  • Construction Projects: New sidewalks, roads and stormwater facilities

 

Priority Response System

During emergencies and winter weather:

  1. First Priority: Major arterial and collector roads

  2. Second Priority: Secondary roads

  3. Third Priority: Local roads

 

Contact Information

Main Office

DeKalb County Roads & Drainage 727 Camp Road, Decatur, GA 30032

Customer Service:  404-297-3840

Email: rad_customerservice@dekalbcountyga.gov

Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

 

Emergency Contacts

  • Environmental Emergencies:  404-294-2007

  • Watershed Emergency (24/7): 770-270-6243

  • General Emergency: 9-1-1

 

 

Specialized Contacts

Floodplain Management

Phone: 404-297-2567 or 404-297-4518

Email: FloodplainManagement@dekalbcountyga.gov

 

Stormwater Utility

Phone: 404-297-4464

   

Environmental Concerns

Phone: 404-294-2007

 

Storm Drain Marking Program

Contact: swoutreach@dekalbcountyga.gov

Phone: 404-297-2567

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Stormwater & Drainage

Q: Who maintains drainage easements on my property?

A: Property owners are responsible for maintaining drainage easements and creeks on their property, similar to maintaining the yard area within road right-of-way.

Q: How do I get help with drainage problems on my property?

A: Apply for the Citizens Drainage Program by calling 404-297-3840. We provide free materials (up to $2,500 value), but installation is your responsibility.

Q: What should I do if I see illegal dumping in storm drains?

A: Call the Environmental Comments Line immediately at 404-297-2007. Only rainwater should enter storm drains.

 

Roads & Drainage

Q: How are road repairs prioritized?

A: We use a color-coded system: Red (emergency - 30 days), Blue (high priority - 60-90 days), Green (routine - 90+ days).

Q: Who do I call about potholes?

A: Report potholes to our customer service at 404-297-3840 or submit an online service request.

 

Flood Insurance & Protection

Q: Do I need flood insurance?

A: Flood damage isn't covered by homeowner's insurance. Contact a licensed agent even if you're not in a high-risk area, as flooding can occur anywhere. 

Q: How do I find my flood zone?

A: Use our interactive flood map or visit Georgia DFIRM

Q: What is the 30-day waiting period?

A: Most flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, so don't wait for a storm forecast.

 

Request for Assistance form (road maintenance issues)