Fixing a Low-Spot Driveway Pond with a Catch Basin

A driveway that ponds in the center because both ends are higher needs a drainage exit. The simplest retrofit: a catch basin at the low point.

How It Works

A plastic catch basin (12×12″ or 18×18″) with a grate sits flush at the low spot. Water enters, exits through a side outlet into solid or corrugated pipe, and discharges to a swale, rain garden, or storm drain (check local code).

Installation

1. Cut a clean rectangle in the driveway at the low point (concrete saw for asphalt/concrete).
2. Excavate, set basin on 6″ compacted gravel.
3. Connect outlet pipe (4″ PVC or corrugated). Slope pipe 1–2% toward discharge.
4. Backfill with gravel, patch driveway surface.

Bonus: Irrigate a Garden

Route the outlet to a nearby bed—free water for plants. Size the basin for your roof/driveway area (cubic feet per minute rating).

Cost: $50–150 for basin + pipe. One weekend of work.