Quick Overview
- 1#1: Cityworks - Comprehensive asset management platform with mobile inspections, GIS integration, and compliance reporting for stormwater infrastructure.
- 2#2: Cartegraph - GIS-based asset management system optimized for stormwater inspections, work orders, and regulatory compliance tracking.
- 3#3: CentralSquare Unite - Public works asset management software featuring stormwater inspection workflows, mobile data capture, and analytics.
- 4#4: ArcGIS Field Maps - Mobile GIS app for collecting stormwater inspection data, mapping outfalls, and real-time field reporting.
- 5#5: Fulcrum - Customizable mobile forms platform for GIS-enabled stormwater inspections with photo documentation and offline support.
- 6#6: OpenGov - Cloud-based civic platform with asset management tools for stormwater inspections and maintenance tracking.
- 7#7: AssetWorks Citywide - Municipal asset management solution supporting stormwater inspection scheduling, mobile access, and reporting.
- 8#8: GoCanvas - Digital forms builder for creating and conducting stormwater inspection checklists on mobile devices.
- 9#9: SafetyCulture - Inspection management app with templates for stormwater compliance audits and corrective action tracking.
- 10#10: CoreGov - Permitting and inspection software with modules for stormwater NPDES compliance and field inspections.
We ranked tools by assessing core functionality (including mobile inspection capabilities, GIS integration, and compliance tracking), user experience (intuitive design and offline support), technical reliability (data sync, customization), and overall value, ensuring a comprehensive overview of top-performing solutions.
Comparison Table
Efficient stormwater management relies on robust inspection software to track maintenance and ensure compliance, making tool selection a key decision. This comparison table evaluates top options—such as Cityworks, Cartegraph, CentralSquare Unite, ArcGIS Field Maps, Fulcrum, and more—outlining their features, usability, and tailored strengths. Readers will learn how to match software to their specific operational needs, from data capture to reporting.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cityworks Comprehensive asset management platform with mobile inspections, GIS integration, and compliance reporting for stormwater infrastructure. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 2 | Cartegraph GIS-based asset management system optimized for stormwater inspections, work orders, and regulatory compliance tracking. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.6/10 | 8.8/10 |
| 3 | CentralSquare Unite Public works asset management software featuring stormwater inspection workflows, mobile data capture, and analytics. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | ArcGIS Field Maps Mobile GIS app for collecting stormwater inspection data, mapping outfalls, and real-time field reporting. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Fulcrum Customizable mobile forms platform for GIS-enabled stormwater inspections with photo documentation and offline support. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 6 | OpenGov Cloud-based civic platform with asset management tools for stormwater inspections and maintenance tracking. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 7 | AssetWorks Citywide Municipal asset management solution supporting stormwater inspection scheduling, mobile access, and reporting. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 8 | GoCanvas Digital forms builder for creating and conducting stormwater inspection checklists on mobile devices. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.1/10 |
| 9 | SafetyCulture Inspection management app with templates for stormwater compliance audits and corrective action tracking. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 10 | CoreGov Permitting and inspection software with modules for stormwater NPDES compliance and field inspections. | enterprise | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 | 6.9/10 | 7.2/10 |
Comprehensive asset management platform with mobile inspections, GIS integration, and compliance reporting for stormwater infrastructure.
GIS-based asset management system optimized for stormwater inspections, work orders, and regulatory compliance tracking.
Public works asset management software featuring stormwater inspection workflows, mobile data capture, and analytics.
Mobile GIS app for collecting stormwater inspection data, mapping outfalls, and real-time field reporting.
Customizable mobile forms platform for GIS-enabled stormwater inspections with photo documentation and offline support.
Cloud-based civic platform with asset management tools for stormwater inspections and maintenance tracking.
Municipal asset management solution supporting stormwater inspection scheduling, mobile access, and reporting.
Digital forms builder for creating and conducting stormwater inspection checklists on mobile devices.
Inspection management app with templates for stormwater compliance audits and corrective action tracking.
Permitting and inspection software with modules for stormwater NPDES compliance and field inspections.
Cityworks
enterpriseComprehensive asset management platform with mobile inspections, GIS integration, and compliance reporting for stormwater infrastructure.
GIS-integrated mobile inspections that provide real-time asset condition updates and dynamic routing for efficient stormwater compliance
Cityworks is a GIS-centric enterprise asset management platform designed for local governments and utilities, offering robust stormwater inspection capabilities through mobile field data collection, asset tracking, and compliance workflows. It enables inspectors to document conditions of stormwater infrastructure like catch basins, pipes, and outfalls in real-time via a mobile app, with automatic GIS updates and work order generation. The software excels in integrating stormwater inspections with maintenance, permitting, and regulatory reporting for NPDES compliance.
Pros
- Deep Esri ArcGIS integration for precise stormwater asset mapping and inspection routing
- Powerful mobile app for offline-capable field inspections with photo attachments and condition assessments
- Comprehensive compliance reporting and workflow automation tailored to stormwater regulations like MS4
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex setup requiring GIS expertise
- High implementation costs and customization needs for smaller agencies
- Limited out-of-the-box templates for niche stormwater workflows
Best For
Large municipalities and stormwater utilities managing complex, GIS-heavy inspection programs across extensive infrastructure networks.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote, typically starting at $50,000+ annually based on users, assets, and modules; includes implementation fees.
Cartegraph
enterpriseGIS-based asset management system optimized for stormwater inspections, work orders, and regulatory compliance tracking.
Asset-centric GIS platform that dynamically links inspection data to interactive stormwater network maps for proactive maintenance.
Cartegraph is a comprehensive asset management platform tailored for public works and infrastructure, with strong capabilities for stormwater inspections and maintenance. It allows field teams to conduct mobile inspections of assets like catch basins, manholes, pipes, and outfalls, capturing data in real-time with photo and GPS integration. The software leverages GIS mapping for asset visualization, generates NPDES/MS4 compliance reports, and automates work orders for efficient remediation. Its configurable workflows support end-to-end stormwater program management.
Pros
- Powerful GIS integration for asset mapping and analysis
- Robust mobile app for offline inspections and real-time data sync
- Advanced reporting and compliance tools for stormwater regulations
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to high customizability
- Enterprise pricing may be prohibitive for small municipalities
- Initial setup requires significant configuration time
Best For
Mid-to-large municipalities and public works departments needing integrated asset management with advanced stormwater inspection and GIS capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing based on assets/users; typically starts at $40,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, contact for quote.
CentralSquare Unite
enterprisePublic works asset management software featuring stormwater inspection workflows, mobile data capture, and analytics.
Seamless cross-module integration that links stormwater inspections directly to public safety (CAD/RMS) and permitting systems for unified government operations
CentralSquare Unite is a comprehensive cloud-based SaaS platform tailored for public sector agencies, providing stormwater inspection capabilities through its integrated public works, asset management, and compliance modules. It supports mobile field inspections, GIS mapping for outfalls and BMPs, automated reporting for NPDES/MS4 compliance, and workflow automation to streamline municipal stormwater programs. As part of a broader ecosystem, it unifies stormwater data with other government functions like permitting and code enforcement for enhanced operational efficiency.
Pros
- Deep integration with GIS, asset management, and other public sector modules for holistic workflows
- Robust mobile app supporting offline inspections and real-time data sync
- Advanced analytics and customizable reporting for regulatory compliance
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to its enterprise-scale complexity
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small municipalities without broad needs
- Less specialized stormwater-specific templates compared to niche competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large municipalities needing an all-in-one platform that combines stormwater inspections with public safety, permitting, and asset management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; subscription-based SaaS starting around $50,000+ annually for mid-sized deployments, scaled by modules and users.
ArcGIS Field Maps
enterpriseMobile GIS app for collecting stormwater inspection data, mapping outfalls, and real-time field reporting.
Deep integration with the ArcGIS ecosystem for dynamic stormwater network visualization and advanced spatial analytics
ArcGIS Field Maps is a robust mobile app from Esri that enables field workers to collect geospatial data, perform inspections, and manage workflows using interactive maps. For stormwater inspections, it supports customizable forms for assets like outfalls, manholes, and catch basins, with photo capture, precise GPS logging, and offline editing capabilities. Data syncs seamlessly to ArcGIS Online or Enterprise for analysis, reporting, and asset tracking, making it ideal for GIS-centric operations.
Pros
- Powerful GIS integration for asset mapping and analysis
- Offline data collection and high-accuracy GNSS support
- Customizable forms and real-time collaboration
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-GIS users
- Requires ArcGIS subscription for full functionality
- Overkill for simple, non-spatial inspections
Best For
Municipalities and utilities with established GIS systems seeking comprehensive stormwater asset management.
Pricing
Included in ArcGIS Online subscriptions: $100/user/year for viewers, $500/user/year for creators; enterprise licensing varies.
Fulcrum
specializedCustomizable mobile forms platform for GIS-enabled stormwater inspections with photo documentation and offline support.
Advanced spatial data capture with sub-meter GPS and direct GIS interoperability
Fulcrum is a mobile GIS platform designed for field data collection, enabling users to build custom forms for capturing photos, GPS locations, signatures, and checklists during inspections. For stormwater management, it supports documenting BMP conditions, erosion control measures, outfall inspections, and compliance issues with offline functionality and real-time syncing. Data integrates seamlessly with GIS systems for mapping and analysis, making it suitable for environmental fieldwork.
Pros
- Highly customizable no-code form builder for tailored stormwater checklists
- Robust offline mode with automatic syncing and GPS accuracy
- Strong GIS exports (shapefiles, KML) for stormwater asset mapping
Cons
- Lacks pre-built stormwater-specific templates or regulatory reporting
- Advanced reporting requires integrations or exports
- Per-user pricing scales quickly for larger teams
Best For
Environmental consultants or municipal teams needing flexible, GIS-focused mobile inspections for stormwater compliance without specialized software.
Pricing
Starts at $25/user/month (Plus), $45/user/month (Advanced), with custom Enterprise plans.
OpenGov
enterpriseCloud-based civic platform with asset management tools for stormwater inspections and maintenance tracking.
GIS-powered asset management that provides real-time visualization and analytics for stormwater networks
OpenGov is a comprehensive cloud-based govtech platform that includes asset management and public works modules supporting stormwater inspections for local governments. It allows field teams to conduct mobile inspections of stormwater infrastructure like catch basins and outfalls, track maintenance activities, and generate NPDES compliance reports. The software integrates GIS mapping for asset visualization and work order automation to enhance operational efficiency.
Pros
- Strong GIS integration for stormwater asset mapping
- Mobile app for efficient field inspections and data capture
- Seamless compliance reporting and work order management
Cons
- Enterprise-level pricing may be high for small municipalities
- Initial setup and learning curve due to broad platform scope
- Less specialized stormwater features than dedicated niche tools
Best For
Mid-to-large municipalities needing an integrated govtech suite for asset management and stormwater compliance alongside financials and procurement.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically starts at $10,000-$50,000 annually depending on modules, users, and deployment size.
AssetWorks Citywide
enterpriseMunicipal asset management solution supporting stormwater inspection scheduling, mobile access, and reporting.
GIS-powered Citywide360 platform for real-time stormwater asset visualization and inspection workflows
AssetWorks Citywide is a comprehensive enterprise asset management platform tailored for municipal governments and public works, featuring specialized modules for stormwater infrastructure management. It enables GIS-integrated tracking of assets like catch basins, outfalls, and pipes, with mobile apps for field inspections, work orders, and compliance reporting to meet NPDES/MS4 requirements. The software supports preventive maintenance scheduling and analytics to optimize stormwater operations across citywide networks.
Pros
- Robust GIS integration for precise asset mapping and inspections
- Mobile-first field data collection with offline capabilities
- Strong compliance tools for NPDES/MS4 reporting and auditing
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to enterprise-level complexity
- Pricing is opaque and scales with customization/modules
- Overkill for small municipalities focused solely on stormwater
Best For
Large municipalities or public works departments needing integrated asset management beyond just stormwater inspections.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically starts at $10,000+ annually based on users, modules, and deployment.
GoCanvas
specializedDigital forms builder for creating and conducting stormwater inspection checklists on mobile devices.
Drag-and-drop form builder with logic rules for creating infinitely customizable, no-code inspection workflows
GoCanvas is a mobile-first platform for digitizing forms and conducting inspections, allowing users to create custom checklists, capture photos with annotations, and generate reports on the go. In stormwater inspections, it supports NPDES compliance by enabling GPS-tagged documentation of BMPs, erosion control measures, and site conditions via customizable templates. The app works offline, syncs data automatically, and integrates with tools like QuickBooks for streamlined workflows.
Pros
- Highly customizable drag-and-drop form builder for tailored stormwater checklists
- Offline data collection with GPS and photo capabilities ideal for field inspections
- Quick deployment and team sharing without extensive training
Cons
- Lacks pre-built stormwater-specific compliance templates or automated regulatory tracking
- Advanced reporting and integrations require higher-tier plans
- Form setup can be time-intensive for complex multi-site inspections
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms or consultants seeking a flexible, general-purpose mobile inspection tool adaptable to stormwater needs.
Pricing
Starts at $45/user/month for basic plans; scales to $100+/user/month for advanced features and enterprise customizations.
SafetyCulture
specializedInspection management app with templates for stormwater compliance audits and corrective action tracking.
Advanced template builder with logic branching and conditional fields for tailored stormwater inspection forms
SafetyCulture (formerly iAuditor) is a mobile-first inspection platform that enables users to build and conduct digital checklists for compliance tasks, including stormwater inspections for construction sites and industrial facilities. It supports offline data capture with photos, GPS tagging, signatures, and real-time reporting to track BMP maintenance, rain events, and SWPPP requirements. The platform excels in general safety audits but requires customization for specialized stormwater workflows.
Pros
- Highly customizable templates for stormwater checklists
- Robust mobile app with offline mode and photo/GPS integration
- Automated reporting and action tracking for compliance
Cons
- Lacks built-in stormwater-specific tools like pollutant tracking or GIS mapping
- Customization requires initial setup time
- Advanced features locked behind higher pricing tiers
Best For
Small to mid-sized construction firms needing a flexible, mobile inspection tool adaptable to stormwater compliance without specialized software.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Pro at $24/user/month (billed annually); Premium and Enterprise custom pricing.
CoreGov
enterprisePermitting and inspection software with modules for stormwater NPDES compliance and field inspections.
End-to-end workflow integration linking stormwater inspections directly to permitting, enforcement, and work order systems
CoreGov is a comprehensive enterprise software platform tailored for local governments, offering a dedicated stormwater management module for inspections, compliance tracking, and reporting. It enables field crews to perform mobile inspections via a user-friendly app, log violations, schedule maintenance, and generate NPDES-compliant reports. The system integrates with GIS mapping and other municipal modules like permitting and asset management for streamlined operations.
Pros
- Strong GIS integration for asset tracking and inspection routing
- Robust compliance reporting tools for NPDES and EPA requirements
- Scalable for multi-department use in local governments
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to enterprise-level complexity
- Custom pricing lacks transparency for smaller municipalities
- Mobile app occasionally reports sync issues in low-connectivity areas
Best For
Mid-sized municipalities seeking an integrated platform for stormwater inspections alongside other public works functions.
Pricing
Custom enterprise subscription pricing; typically starts at $10,000+ annually based on user count and modules, requires quote.
Conclusion
The reviewed tools present robust options for stormwater inspection, with Cityworks standing out as the top choice—its comprehensive asset management, mobile inspections, and integrated compliance reporting setting it apart. Cartegraph and CentralSquare Unite also excel, offering tailored solutions like GIS optimization or workflow analytics to suit diverse operational needs. This lineup underscores the importance of choosing software aligned with specific infrastructure management goals.
Take the first step toward efficient stormwater management by exploring Cityworks—its integrated features make it the ideal partner for maximizing inspection efficacy and compliance.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison