For residents living along waterways such as Big or Little Cottonwood Creek or Deaf Smith Creek, understanding the distinction between local municipal services and regional oversight is a key component of emergency preparedness. According to an undated document from the Cottonwood Heights website, Salt Lake County Flood Control manages specific issues related to overland flooding. This agency is the entity residents should contact if they observe areas of overland flooding along rivers, creeks, streams, or canals, or if they notice areas of channel erosion. The county agency can be reached at 385-468-6600.
While Salt Lake County Flood Control handles broader flooding and erosion issues, the city maintains its own protocols for local drainage and debris management. An undated document from the Cottonwood Heights website advises residents to engage with city resources first when dealing with local drainage problems before contacting the county agency. For specific maintenance tasks, the city provides instructions for managing debris to mitigate potential property damage and flooding.
During the spring runoff season, the city suggests that residents monitor the streambeds or stream banks near their properties, particularly those located near Big or Little Cottonwood Creek or along Deaf Smith Creek. If residents find debris in these areas, they are encouraged to monitor and clear it. Once debris has been removed from a stream, the city instructs residents to pile it on the street in front of their home and call Public Works at 801-944-7002 for removal. An undated document notes that Public Works is authorized to pick up stream debris, though they cannot collect other types of household items or yard waste.
Safety remains a priority during these seasonal changes. The city's undated emergency preparedness documentation instructs residents not to enter a creek or attempt to remove debris once water levels have risen. Additionally, the city advises residents to watch young children and pets carefully when they are near water. Residents can also contact Public Works at 801-944-7002 to report a blocked storm drain grate or to report debris that has ended up within local roadways or intersections.
Preparedness is a broader community effort in Cottonwood Heights. The city's undated emergency preparedness resources state that community preparedness begins with residents who are both informed and engaged. One way residents can participate in local safety is through the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). An undated document states that the city holds CERT Refresher Training sessions at Cottonwood Heights City Hall, located at 2277 E. Bengal Blvd. These training sessions are open to everyone, including those who have never participated in the program before. Such training is intended to help residents review and strengthen emergency response skills and connect with local CERT volunteers to help make the community more resilient.
What this means for Cottonwood Heights
According to undated city documents, Cottonwood Heights residents should contact Salt Lake County Flood Control at 385-468-6600 for overland flooding or erosion. However, residents should use city resources for local drainage issues and contact Public Works at 801-944-7002 to report blocked storm drains or to arrange for the pickup of stream debris piled on streets.
