How often should catch basins be located according to standard practice?

Catch basins are critical components of stormwater management systems, designed to collect and manage runoff and debris, preventing blockages in drainage systems. According to standard practices, placing catch basins every 300 feet is considered optimum for effectively managing runoff. This spacing allows for adequate drainage while ensuring that the systems can efficiently collect water and capture larger debris before it can enter the piping system.

This interval helps maintain proper water flow and mitigate flooding risks in urban and developed areas by ensuring that surplus water is directed into the catch basins in a timely fashion. It also facilitates easier maintenance access compared to wider spacing, ensuring the drainage systems remain functional.

While shorter intervals might seem beneficial in some contexts, they can lead to increased construction and maintenance costs without yielding significant improvement in drainage efficacy. Spacing catch basins too far apart may increase the risk of surface flooding or debris accumulation if storm events exceed the capacity of the drainage area between basins. Thus, the 300-foot guideline strikes a balance between efficiency, functionality, and practicality in storm drainage design.