Engineering Department

The Engineering Department oversees the city’s drainage and street repaving projects, inspects new subdivision construction, reviews curb-cut requests, and manages stormwater responsibilities. The department also evaluates and approves speed-hump requests.

Department Functions and Responsibilities

• Oversee drainage and road capital projects.
• Manage street repaving projects.
• Inspect new subdivision construction and coordinate the acceptance process.
• Review and approve curb cuts.
• Evaluate and approve speed-hump requests.
• Provide technical guidance on drainage concerns and stormwater management.

Drainage Concerns

Engineering reviews drainage concerns that may require further study, changes to drainage infrastructure, or a capital project. The department evaluates reported conditions and determines whether a project is warranted.

Report drainage concerns through Decatur Direct or call Engineering at 256-341-4875.

For blocked drainage inlets, stopped-up ditches, or routine drainage maintenance, contact Environmental Services at 256-341-4740 or submit a request through Decatur Direct.

Street Repaving

Engineering oversees street repaving projects. Residents may report streets that need repaving through Decatur Direct or by calling 256-341-4875. The department evaluates the street and adds it to the repaving list if warranted.

For potholes and routine street repairs, contact Environmental Services at 256-341-4740 or submit a request through Decatur Direct.

Curb Cuts

Approval from Engineering is required before cutting or breaking a curb for a driveway, entrance, exit, or similar access point. Call 256-341-4875 for assistance.

Reference: Section 25-5, Code of Decatur.

Speed Humps

Engineering evaluates and approves speed-hump requests. Environmental Services handles request intake, installation, and maintenance.

To request a speed hump, use Decatur Direct or call Environmental Services at 256-341-4740.

Final Acceptance of New Subdivision Construction

New subdivision construction must complete the following inspection and acceptance process:

1. Construction inspections: After Planning Commission approval and the start of construction, the City Engineer or a representative must observe conditions at each of these stages:
• Completion of the subgrade.
• Installation of the first base layer with curb and gutter.
• Installation of the second base layer.
• Installation of the binder course.
2. Final inspection request: Once construction meets the approved plans, the owner’s engineer requests a final inspection by the City Engineer. The owner’s engineer must provide a combined record of inspections and testing upon request.
3. Final inspection: The City Engineer inspects streets, storm drainage, and site grading with the owner’s engineer and the contractor’s representative. The City Engineer identifies any remaining requirements and conducts additional inspections as needed.
4. Utility coordination: The City Engineer works with the utility departments to confirm that utilities are complete, serviceable, and acceptable to the respective departments.
5. Signs and traffic control devices: Environmental Services’ Traffic Signs and Markings operation handles installation, with assistance from Engineering as needed.
6. Maintenance bond: A maintenance bond must be submitted to the City Engineer in the amount and for the duration required by Section VII, Plats and Data, paragraph C.4, of the City of Decatur Subdivision Regulations.
7. City acceptance: Once all requirements are met, the City Engineer recommends acceptance of the streets, storm drainage, site grading, and utilities for public use and maintenance. City Council completes acceptance by resolution at a regular or called meeting.