Permeable pavers let water pass through the spaces between them which are often filled with small gravel or sand. 

Permeable pavements help reduce the amount of stormwater runoff because they allow water to soak through the pavement and into the soil below.  Please watch the above video to learn more about permeable pavement.

Permeable pavements usually have a gravel or rock filled reservoir underneath to hold the water that passes through.  If the soil does not let water soak in or it soaks in extremely slowly, the water held in this reservoir may be slowly released into the storm drain system.  Even though the amount of runoff isn't reduced, the runoff is delayed so it doesn't enter the storm drain during the height of the storm. This helps reduce stream erosion and can reduce flooding potential. 

Pervious concrete or porous asphalt are probably not feasible for a single home project.  But permeable pavers could be a beautiful alternative to the usual concrete patio or driveway. 

Information presented within the lawn and landscape section of this Water Web site has been reviewed by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Stormwater and Greenspace Team. Members include Erin Bauer, Sarah Browning, Kathleen Cue, John Fech, Kelly Feehan, Thomas Franti, Bobbi Holm, Elizabeth Killinger, Katie Pekarek, Steve Rodie, Jim Schild, Dave Shelton.