Environmental Rules in Keller, TX: What Residents Actually Need to Know
Every city handles environmental rules a little differently. In Keller, Texas, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.
Stormwater Management
Keller operates a regulated MS4 stormwater program under the TPDES permit issued by TCEQ. Illicit discharges to storm drains, including grass clippings, paint, and chemicals, are prohibited.
Key details: State Permit: TPDES TXR040000. Oversight: TCEQ and EPA Region 6. Banned Discharges: Oil, paint, chemicals, clippings. Construction Threshold: 1 acre requires CGP. Receiving Waters: Big Bear Creek and Lake Grapevine.
Municipal citations up to $2,000 per day for illicit discharges. State TCEQ enforcement can add significantly higher civil penalties. Construction sites without SWP3 may be shut down.
The rules around stormwater management in Keller lean permissive, but that does not mean anything goes.
Erosion Control
Keller Engineering Design Standards require positive drainage from structures and no diversion of runoff onto neighboring lots. Grading permits are required for significant earthwork and cuts or fills over 2 feet.
Key details: Foundation Slope: 5 percent away, 10 feet. Cut or Fill Trigger: 50 cubic yards or steep slope. Retaining Wall: Engineered over 4 feet. Easement: No obstruction allowed. Runoff: No diversion onto neighbors.
Citations up to $500 per day for unpermitted grading. Orders to restore natural drainage at owner expense. Private civil liability for damage to neighboring property caused by altered runoff.
If you are coming from a city with tighter rules, you will find Keller gives residents more flexibility on erosion control.
The Bottom Line
Compared to many U.S. cities, Keller gives residents more room on environmental rules. 2 of the 2 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.
This guide is based on Keller's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.