Hurricane Preparedness in Houston, TX (2026)
4 verified hurricane preparedness rules for Houston, Texas, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Hurricane Shutters
Houston's building code requires impact-resistant glazing or approved hurricane shutters in wind-borne debris regions. The Texas Department of Insurance enforces windstorm standards in designated coastal counties, and parts of Harris County are in the TWIA territory.
Houston Hurricane Shutter and Window Protection Standards
Some RestrictionsRoof Standards
Houston's building code requires roof systems to resist wind loads per ASCE 7-16 design standards. Roof-to-wall connections must use hurricane clips or straps, and roofing materials must be rated for the local design wind speed.
Houston Wind-Resistant Roofing Requirements
Some RestrictionsFlood Elevation
Houston's Chapter 19 Floodplain Ordinance, amended after Hurricane Harvey in 2018, requires new construction in the 500-year floodplain to be elevated 2 feet above the 500-year flood elevation — significantly stricter than federal NFIP minimums.
Houston Floodplain Elevation Requirements (Chapter 19)
Heavy RestrictionsStorm Debris
Houston's Solid Waste Management Department coordinates storm debris pickup under Chapter 39. Residents must separate debris into six categories and place it curbside at least 5 feet from obstructions for collection.
Houston Storm Debris Management and Cleanup Rules
Some RestrictionsLooking for Harris County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Houston city rules.
Hurricane Preparedness in Harris County →