Burlington, Skagit County
Burlington receives 36.3 inches of rain annually and sits on soil that creates persistent drainage challenges for homeowners. Burlington's drainage is heavily influenced by its location in the Skagit River floodplain and the presence of Gages Slough, which runs through the city. New Life Drainage designs custom systems that keep Burlington properties dry and protected year-round.
50+
Years Serving Burlington
500+
Projects Completed
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The soils in Burlington are predominantly deep, somewhat excessively drained alluvial soils of the Burlington series, formed in mixed alluvium. These soils are often found on wind-reworked, dune-like terraces and are characterized by stratified layers of silt and gravelly coarse sands.
Burlington is situated in a relatively flat, low-lying area within the Skagit River floodplain, featuring alluvial terraces and sloughs. The surrounding region includes the rugged topography of the North Cascades, but the city itself is characterized by nearly level terrain that is highly susceptible to flooding.
In December 2025, Burlington experienced severe flooding when the Skagit River breached a natural dike, causing Gages Slough to overflow into homes and forcing immediate evacuations. The area has a history of significant flooding, with the Skagit River experiencing multiple 100-year flood events since 1990. The City of Burlington requires compliance with its National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Municipal Stormwater Permit. Property owners must follow maintenance tasks specified in the operations and maintenance plan for their private stormwater facilities to prevent illicit discharges into the public storm system.
Burlington's drainage is heavily influenced by its location in the Skagit River floodplain and the presence of Gages Slough, which runs through the city. Most stormwater runoff drains into Gages Slough and is then pumped into the Skagit River, making the city highly vulnerable when river levels rise and natural or man-made dikes fail.
The soils in Burlington are predominantly deep, somewhat excessively drained alluvial soils of the Burlington series, formed in mixed alluvium.
Burlington is situated in a relatively flat, low-lying area within the Skagit River floodplain, featuring alluvial terraces and sloughs.
Heavy Pacific Northwest rainfall on local soil creates months of saturation from October through May without proper drainage systems.

Professional French drain systems designed for Burlington's specific soil and terrain conditions.
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Custom catch basins, surface drains, and grading solutions for Burlington yards with standing water.
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Slope stabilization, drainage channels, and runoff management for Burlington's hillside properties.
Learn MoreAll prices include site preparation, materials, and cleanup. Free, no-obligation estimates with all the details — no surprises.
French Drain
$3,000–$8,000
Per system, soil-dependent
Catch Basin System
$2,500–$5,000
Surface water collection
Full Yard Drainage
$5,500–$14,000
Complete system design
Erosion Control
$4,000–$12,000
Slope stabilization
Prices are based on site conditions, linear footage, and system design. Get a free estimate for exact pricing.
"New Life Drainage solved our yard flooding problem in Burlington. Professional crew, great communication, and the system works perfectly through every storm. Highly recommend."
Satisfied Customer
Burlington, WA
Drainage challenges from local soil and terrain conditions requiring professional assessment and custom solutions.
Drainage challenges from local soil and terrain conditions requiring professional assessment and custom solutions.
Drainage challenges from local soil and terrain conditions requiring professional assessment and custom solutions.
Residential drainage projects in Burlington typically range from $3,000 to $14,000 depending on the system type, property size, and soil conditions. We provide free on-site estimates with transparent, detailed pricing — no surprises.
The soils in Burlington are predominantly deep, somewhat excessively drained alluvial soils of the Burlington series, formed in mixed alluvium. Combined with 36.3 inches of annual rainfall mostly falling between October and May, yards without proper drainage systems become saturated for months. A French drain or catch basin system can remove this trapped water.
Most residential drainage installations in Burlington do not require a permit unless they connect to the public storm system or involve significant grading near critical areas. Our team advises on local requirements during the free estimate process.
The best system depends on your specific property conditions. Burlington's soil varies by location, so we conduct a thorough site assessment during our free estimate visit to determine whether French drains, catch basins, regrading, or a combination will work best for your property.
Get a free on-site assessment from drainage experts who understand Burlington's local soil, terrain, and rainfall challenges.