This note (DES 19), originally published in February 1998, was reviewed by Judy van Gelderen in January 2003. This paper is now considered out of date and will be republished in due course. In the meantime, please consider the issues below. This note outlines practical approaches to retention and recycling of stormwater in landscapes of different scales-from medium density design to a domestic house. The case studies outline alternative solutions to underground piped drainage in simple, site specific and creative ways.