Adopt-a-Drain Program

Help the City prevent neighborhood flooding and keep trash out of our waterways. 

While the City is doing its part to clean the City's drains, it's hard for staff to be everywhere at once, especially when the leaves start dropping. By adopting a drain, you can make a big difference in your community. Keeping storm drain grates clear of leaves and other debris helps reduce localized flooding and keeps our creeks, waterways, and the San Francisco Bay clean. We appreciate the community's continued support!

It's easy to adopt a drain and keep it clear. Here's how:

Choose A Drain

Use the map below to pick a drain near you or at work to adopt.

Get Free Supplies

The City provides a bucket, vest, grabber, and a box of gloves for pickup at our City Corporation Yard.

Keep It Clear

Keep your adopted drain clear of leaves, trash, and other debris, especially before and after rain.

Find An Adoptable Drain Near You

Use the search tool (magnifying glass) on the map to find your address and see nearby drains. Available drains are shown in blue. High-priority drains are anticipated to have additional leaf litter and are especially in need of being adopted. The City appreciates residents' support in adopting any of these drains!

Click on a drain and use the "View" link to Register For This Drain. 

View the Adopt-A-Drain Map at Full Size

Available light blue color, Available dark blue high priority color, Adopted green color

What You're Signing Up For

We ask for a six-month volunteer commitment to keep your adopted drain clear of leaves, trash, or other debris.

Stay Safe

  • Stay on the sidewalk
  • Wear a bright, reflective work vest or bright colored clothing 
  • Do not remove the grate
  • Clean before the rain, especially in fall and winter 

Why It Matters

Clean drains help reduce localized flooding and keep trash and debris out of our waterways and the San Francisco Bay.

View the Adopt-A-Drain Guidelines and Cleaning Tips. 

San Mateo Drain Adopters In Action

Community members of all ages are helping keep our neighborhood and waterways clean! Please send us pictures of you in action as you clean your adopted drain. You can email the pictures to AdoptaDrain@cityofsanmateo.org 

girl with black umbrella over her drain
Girl Scout Teamwork
Cooper1Krzeminski1
CooperKrzeminski3
Emerson,Jack and Auggie(dog) Sherman
Name-a-Drain Volunteer-Youth
JudyStevens

Questions or Concerns?