- **Clear gutters and downspouts.** Remove leaves, twigs, and debris so roof runoff can drain freely. Check for loose or damaged sections. Gutter guards need cleaning, too. San Francisco’s rainwater harvesting manual recommends inspections at the beginning and end of the rainy season, with more frequent attention where vegetation overhangs gutters. Maintenance guidance.
- **Give driveway drains extra attention.** If your driveway slopes toward the garage, water can collect near the door. Remove surface debris from your private drain before rain arrives. If water regularly pools or drains slowly, have a qualified drainage professional evaluate the system. A clear grate alone may not solve the underlying problem.
- **Consider a garage flood barrier.** A properly fitted barrier can add protection at the garage entrance. Choose one suited to the opening and follow its installation instructions. Make sure your plan accounts for where the water will go. A barrier should work alongside functioning drainage. Garage protection guidance.
- **Pick up free sandbags.** San Francisco offers **up to 10 free sandbags** for flood-prone homes and businesses. Bring proof of address to the Public Works operations yard’s **Marin/Kansas Street gate**, Monday–Saturday, **8 a.m.–2 p.m.** Be prepared to load them yourself. Check current pickup information before heading out. Sandbag details.
- **Save water with a rain barrel.** SFPUC offers rebates of **up to $100 each for two qualifying rain barrels**. Eligible barrels must hold at least 50 gallons. Install the barrel before applying, and submit your application within **90 days of purchase**. Save your receipts and installation photos. Funding is limited. Rebate requirements.
- **Plan for barrel overflow.** Rain barrels fill quickly, so excess water needs a safe drainage route. Use a secure lid or mosquito-proof screening. Check SFPUC’s installation requirements before changing downspouts: disconnecting an existing downspout from the sewer requires a permit, while an appropriate diverter arrangement may avoid that requirement. Installation guidance.
- **Check flood protection grants before starting work.** Eligible owners with qualifying prior flooding from an adjacent public street or other right-of-way, or storm-related sewer backflow, may receive **up to $100,000** for approved improvements. An active SFPUC wastewater account is required. **A grant agreement must be executed before work begins.** Contact the program first. Grant information.
- **Use leaf catchers carefully.** A leaf collector can become a blockage when wet leaves pile up. Before adding a basket or guard to a private yard or driveway drain, check that it suits the system and can be cleaned easily. Inspect it regularly. Avoid improvised fine mesh over a critical drain. SFPUC guidance.
- **Keep public street drains clear safely.** Remove surface leaves before or after rain, never during a storm. Do not lift public grates or enter pooling water. Report completely clogged drains with roadway or sidewalk pooling to **311**. San Francisco’s Adopt a Drain program explains how residents can help safely. City guidance.
- **Prepare the garage contents, too.** Move vulnerable belongings and important documents to higher locations before flooding threatens. Photograph valuable possessions for your records. Sign up for local emergency alerts so you can respond to changing conditions. Finish preparation early; once flooding starts, prioritize your household’s safety. Flood preparation checklist.