Easements on private margin and stream bed of public waters as urban flood mitigation tool

Abstract

Urban flooding is a significant natural risk in most Portuguese urban areas. The increase on soil sealing, ineffective urban drainage and extreme precipitation events are responsible for the increased frequency of urban flooding, with worsening trend in climate change scenarios. This article describes the role that easements on private margin or stream beds of public waters can play in urban flooding mitigation, complementing the current tools for planning and managing flood risk. To reach this goal, it is crucial the analysis and reflection of the various aspects related to the demarcation of the easements, as well as its adequacy to the challenges faced on planning and urban management in the prevention and mitigation of flood risk.