Responsibility to main a culvert is usually with the landowner for that part of it that is on the owner’s land. This may be difficult if it is an old one and is buried beneath the ground and not visible.
Who maintains a culvert?
The responsibility for the condition and maintenance of a culvert lies with the landowner or the owner of the cul- vert unless other agreements are in place. The responsible party must therefore ensure that the culvert and any screens remain in good condition and free from obstruc- tions.
Who is responsible for roadside ditches?
Ditches or watercourses are the responsibility of landowners (often called riparian owners). Roadside ditches normally belong to the adjoining landowner and not the highway authority, except where land has been acquired for new road building.