Disguising a Backyard Catch Basin: Plant, Paint, or Deck (Check Easement First)

Question: Catch basin 4 ft from property line, ugly with steep slopes affecting 12 ft of yard. Thinking of building a deck over it. Other ideas?

Answer: Planting Is Cheapest; Deck May Be Risky

Plant large grasses or wet-tolerant evergreens around it—far cheaper than a deck. Paint green/tan, add boulders. Don't block water entry.

Deck may violate easement (typically 10–20 ft wide for storm sewer). City can remove deck without notice for repairs. Check plat at tax office/public works.

—Sean Murphy