Frequently Asked Questions

An assessment is technical advice given to a homeowner regarding possible solutions to flooding, drainage, erosion, or other stormwater-related concerns. 

An assessment consists of an onsite consultation with the assessment provider and a detailed report/assessment customized to the property and owner’s interests. 

Examples of suitable stormwater-related concerns

• Other drainage issues (e.g., extended yard saturation)
• Eroding slopes or stream channels
• Stream buffers
• Water quality

Examples of Unsuitable Requests 

• Home moisture (crawl spaces, basements) 
• Tree removal 
• General landscaping 

Single family residential property owners within the Town’s municipal limits are eligible.  

Possible Recommendations 

• Green stormwater infrastructure such as rain gardens and bioswales
• Impervious reduction or disconnection (dispersing rather than concentrating flow)
• Swale or ditch repairs 
• Rainwater harvesting (cisterns and rain barrels)
• Vegetation additions or adaptations 
• Building or mechanical system elevation adaptations 

Outside of Scope 

• Recommending specific contractors
• More detailed design/ engineering plans
• Project cost estimations
• Other project procurement or management assistance 

There are many ways to apply! 

• Apply online at https://www.carrboronc.gov/3111/residential-asssistance-program.  
• Download the application and mail it to 
   Town of Carrboro
   Attn: Stormwater Division, Public Works Department
   301 W. Main St, 
   Carrboro, NC 27510
• Call 919-913-2999 or send an email to stormwater@carrboronc.gov for a copy of the application.  
• Pick up an application at Town Hall.

Applications should be submitted as soon as possible; they will be screened, prioritized, and scheduled for assessment as they are received and accepted.

The only request for the participant beyond completing the application and participating in the onsite assessment is filling out a survey to assist the Town in evaluating the success of the program and providing guidance for future program development. Having an assessment does not mean that the homeowner is required to follow through with the advised recommendations. 

Applicants with suitable stormwater-related concerns who are within the Town’s municipal limits will receive an assessment. Applicants with unsuitable requests will be contacted to review their stormwater-related concerns and to provide further information.

Applicants will be contacted within a month of the receipt of the application. They may also call 919-913-2999 or email stormwater@carrboronc.gov for information and updates.  

Yes. An application can be withdrawn at any time by sending an email to stormwater@carrboronc.gov or calling 919-913-2999. 

The Town of Carrboro will provide the professional assessment through the Stormwater Assistance Coordinator position.

Assessments will take place as scheduled with the Stormwater Assistance Coordinator beginning in January 2025 and will continue as needed. The Stormwater Assistance Coordinator and the applicant will schedule a time together for the on-site visit.