Rainy season in The Acreage can turn a quiet roadside swale into a fast-moving channel. If you own, buy, or sell here, understanding how swales, culverts, and canals work helps you protect your property and stay compliant. In this guide, you’ll learn who maintains what, what you must do as a homeowner, permits to pull, and the risks to avoid. Let’s dive in.
How drainage works in The Acreage
Swales
Swales are shallow, grassy channels along roads that collect and slow stormwater before it flows to larger ditches or canals. They help trap sediment and allow water to soak into the ground. Learn more about how swales function from this overview of streets, swales, and stormwater management in northern Palm Beach County. (source)
Culverts
Culverts are buried pipes under driveways that let swale water pass through. Keeping the inlet and outlet clear is essential for flow, especially before and after major storms. A simple primer explains the basics of culvert function and maintenance. (source)
Canals
Canals are the backbone of regional drainage. They collect water from swales and move it to outfalls or pump stations. In The Acreage, canals and related works are part of a managed system overseen by the Indian Trail Improvement District (ITID). (source)
Who maintains what in The Acreage
- Indian Trail Improvement District (ITID). ITID is the primary local authority in The Acreage. The district maintains many miles of swales and canals, issues driveway and culvert permits, inspects installations, and enforces access in easements. For questions or maintenance requests, contact ITID at (561) 793-0874 or visit the district office in West Palm Beach. (about ITID)
- Palm Beach County. The County is the permitting authority for County rights-of-way and county-owned stormwater assets. If your work touches County ROW or county drainage infrastructure, coordinate with the County’s Engineering/Stormwater Section. (County Stormwater Section)
- SFWMD and Florida DEP. For activities that alter surface waters, wetlands, or stormwater systems, you may need Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs). (SFWMD ERP program)
- Neighboring districts. Other water control districts operate nearby, so always confirm your parcel’s district before planning work.
Key point: In The Acreage, the Indian Trail Improvement District is the primary on-the-ground authority.
Your routine duties as an owner
- Mow and care for the swale area. Keep swales free of trash, leaves, and grass clippings that block flow. (basic maintenance guidance)
- Keep culvert openings clear. Inspect seasonally and before or after major storms. Sediment or vegetation at the ends often causes ponding. (basic maintenance guidance)
- Do not fill or regrade swales. Avoid paving over swales, installing full-width pipes, or changing grades without permits. Such changes can cause off-site flooding and violations. (why it matters)
- Confirm culvert size and elevation before replacement. Many local districts reference an 18-inch minimum diameter for residential driveways, with specific open-flow criteria. Always confirm ITID’s current standards and required invert elevation. (example reference)
Easements and access rules
Swale and canal corridors often include district easements. The district needs unobstructed access for maintenance and may remove obstructions. Large trees, permanent fences, sheds, or hardscape in these areas are typically not allowed without permits. If you want controlled access, review ITID’s gate permit guidance. (ITID gate permits)
Permits you may need
- Driveway or culvert work. ITID requires permits and inspections for driveway culvert installations or replacements within district works. (ITID driveway/culvert permits)
- County rights-of-way. If your project affects County ROW or county stormwater infrastructure, you will need County authorization. (Palm Beach County Stormwater)
- Canal, wetland, or grading changes. Dredging, filling, or significant stormwater alterations can trigger SFWMD ERP requirements. Schedule a pre-application consult for clarity. (SFWMD ERPs)
Risks if you get it wrong
Obstructing a public drainage canal, ditch, or watercourse is illegal in Florida and can carry civil and criminal penalties. Districts can remove obstructions and recover costs from the responsible property owner. Review Florida Statute 298.66 to understand potential liabilities. (Florida Statute 298.66)
Smart steps before you buy or sell
- Document swale and culvert condition. Take clear photos of inlet and outlet openings, slope, and any ponding.
- Request records. Ask for ITID driveway/culvert permits, inspection reports, and any maintenance or complaint history.
- Confirm flood risk. FEMA flood maps for Palm Beach County were updated in 2024. Check your parcel’s current designation and insurance needs. (FEMA Map Service Center)
- Check permits early. If you plan to replace a culvert, re-surface a driveway, or modify grades, talk with ITID and the County first. For canal or wetland impacts, consult SFWMD about ERP requirements.
- Keep organized files. Save permits, correspondence, and receipts. These help with disclosures and buyer confidence.
Quick homeowner checklist
- Inspect and clear culvert openings each season and before/after storms.
- Keep swales mowed and free of debris and clippings.
- Avoid regrading or piping the swale without permits.
- Photograph current conditions for your records and disclosures.
- Confirm flood zone and insurance needs using FEMA’s map viewer. (FEMA MSC)
When to call for help
- Indian Trail Improvement District (The Acreage). Permits, inspections, easements, and maintenance requests. 13476 61st St N, West Palm Beach; (561) 793-0874.
- Palm Beach County Engineering/Stormwater Section. County ROW permits and stormwater concerns. (See contact details on the County Stormwater page.)
- South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD). ERP guidance and pre-application support. RegPermitting: (561) 682-2281.
Buying or selling in The Acreage is smoother when your drainage story is clear. If you want help gathering records, understanding permits, or preparing a property for market, reach out to Stacie Ahee for local guidance you can trust.
FAQs
Who handles standing water in the swale in The Acreage?
- You handle routine care, like mowing the swale and clearing culvert openings; if the issue traces to district or County infrastructure, contact ITID or Palm Beach County Engineering/Stormwater to request maintenance.
Do you need a permit to replace a driveway culvert in The Acreage?
- Yes, culvert replacements within ITID works typically require an ITID permit and inspection; if the work touches County right-of-way, you also need County authorization.
Can you plant trees or build a fence in a swale or canal easement in The Acreage?
- Generally no without approval; easements must stay accessible for maintenance, and unpermitted obstructions can be removed at the owner’s expense.
What size culvert is typical for a residential driveway in The Acreage?
- Many local districts reference 18 inches as a common minimum diameter, but you must confirm ITID’s current specifications and the correct invert elevation for your location.
How do FEMA flood maps affect buying or selling in The Acreage?
- Flood zone designations influence insurance requirements and disclosures; check your parcel on FEMA’s map portal and discuss coverage with your insurer before listing or closing.
What drainage documents should you request when buying in The Acreage?
- Ask for ITID driveway/culvert permits and inspection records, any SFWMD or DEP permits for site work, maintenance or complaint history, and the current FEMA flood zone for the parcel.