Richardson's Environmental Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles environmental rules a little differently. In Richardson, Texas, there are 4 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.

Grading & Drainage

Richardson requires proper grading and drainage on all development projects. Sec. 13-2 prohibits diverting water from its natural course. Retaining walls over 4 feet must be designed by a licensed professional engineer.

Key details: Water Diversion: Prohibited (Sec. 13-2). Retaining Walls: Engineer required if >4 ft. Subdivisions: Ch. 21 drainage requirements. Standard: Direct water to approved drainage.

Improper grading causing drainage problems may result in Code Enforcement citations. Diverting water onto neighboring properties violates Sec. 13-2.

Flood Zones

Richardson Code Chapter 9 (Floodplain Management) regulates development in FEMA-designated flood zones. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Building in floodplains requires elevated structures and special permits.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 9. NFIP: Participating community. Drainage Utility: Established 2011-2012. Floodplain Maps: floodplains-richardson.opendata.arcgis.com.

Building in a floodplain without proper permits and compliance may result in stop-work orders, denial of building permits, and fines. Non-compliant structures may not qualify for flood insurance.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Richardson actively enforces its flood zones requirements.

Stormwater Management

Richardson manages stormwater through the Municipal Drainage Utility System established by ordinance in 2011-2012. Chapter 20.5 addresses stormwater and bridge/waterway management. A drainage fee funds the system.

Key details: Code Section: Ch. 20.5; Sec. 13-2. Drainage Utility: Est. 2011-2012. Drainage Fee: Assessed on all properties. MS4 Permit: EPA/TCEQ Clean Water Act.

Diverting water or obstructing drainage is a violation of Sec. 13-2 with fines up to $2,000. Development projects must comply with stormwater management requirements.

Erosion Control

All construction sites disturbing one or more acres require an erosion control plan and TCEQ stormwater permit; smaller sites require basic sediment controls.

Key details: 1-acre Disturbance: 1-acre disturbance triggers TCEQ TXR150000 coverage. Swppp Required: SWPPP required and must be kept on site. Silt Fencing: Silt fencing and stabilized entrances mandatory. Covered Soil: Covered soil stockpiles required on all sites. City Engineering: City Engineering Services enforces inspections.

Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact [Richardson code enforcement](https://library.municode.com/tx/richardson/codes/code_of_ordinances) directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.

The Bottom Line

Richardson's environmental rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Richardson is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Richardson's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.