Based on numerical simulation methods, the anti-clogging performance of various pervious pavement structures were investigated. Different pavement structure models were built to analyze the effects of different pervious structures, top layer thicknesses and top aggregate gradations on the anti-clogging performance. The results shown that compared with single-layer structure, the double-layer pervious structure has better anti-clogging performance and maintenance efficiency. The most serious clogging of double-layer pervious structure can be hold within 3 mm of the superficial layer where the clogging particles can more easily be cleaned out. Smaller top layer thickness lead to a better anti-clogging performance and maintenance efficiency. And the top layer aggregate size should be selected only considering particle transport or shielding effect, based on the gradation of local clogging particles. In addition, based on the above findings, a new double-layer pervious structure with excellent anti-clogging performance has been developed, including a number of parallel vertical variable diameter tubular channels, the diameter of the upper layer is smaller than that of the lower layer. © 2020 Elsevier Ltd