Culvert Structures

Who is responsible for the culvert under my driveway?

Under RSA 236:13, VI, all private driveway connections, including structures like culverts, remain the continuing responsibility of the landowner- even if located within the Right-of-Way.  It is immaterial whether the driveway connection pre-dates the Town's permit system.  IF any driveway connection threatens the integrity of the Highway due to plugged culverts, erosion, siltation, etc., the town can require the owner to repair it.  IF the owner refuses to effectuate such repairs, then the Town may perform the work and assess the costs to the owner.

Many times, it is a blocked driveway culvert which causes a backup of material which then fills a drainage swale with water and ultimately solid material, please check on your driveway culvert periodically, to ensure it is functioning correctly.  It costs much less to maintain a working drainage swale than to revitalize one that has been blocked/backed up with debris.  While the responsibility is on the Landowner to maintain and replace the culvert when necessary.  The Newport Public Works Department can provide guidance to residents in assessing their project.