Simplebrook is a reference for homeowners and property managers working with stormwater on residential lots across Canada. The material here covers rain garden design and construction, native plant selection for drainage areas, and the practical steps involved in redirecting roof runoff away from foundations and municipal storm sewer connections.

The articles draw on established guidelines from provincial environment ministries, municipal stormwater programs, and published research from Canadian universities working in watershed management and urban hydrology. Content is reviewed periodically and updated when provincial regulations or best practices change.

What Is Covered

The focus is narrow: rain garden design and on-lot stormwater management in Canadian residential contexts. This includes:

  • Basin sizing and soil permeability assessment
  • Native plant selection by moisture zone and hardiness region
  • Downspout disconnection and drainage routing
  • Swale design and inlet protection
  • Seasonal maintenance in cold climates

The site does not address commercial or industrial stormwater management, large-scale bioretention systems requiring engineering permits, or green roof design. Those topics fall outside residential lot applications and involve regulatory requirements that vary significantly by province and municipality.

Contact

For questions about the content on this site, corrections, or suggestions for additional topics, contact us at info@simplebrook.org or by phone at +1 (613) 204-5890.

Mailing address: 47 Rideau Terrace, Ottawa, ON K1M 0Z5, Canada.

Disclaimer

The information on this site is for general reference only and does not constitute professional engineering, landscaping, or municipal advice. Rain garden construction on residential lots may require permits from your municipality. Always confirm local setback requirements, utility locations, and permit obligations before beginning any excavation or drainage modification work. Simplebrook is not responsible for outcomes resulting from the application of information presented on this site.