Flood Zones: Arlington vs Fort Worth
How do flood zones rules compare between Arlington, TX and Fort Worth, TX?
Arlington and Fort Worth have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington regulates development in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas through its Floodplain Administration program. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Johnson Creek, Rush Creek, and their tributaries create significant flood risks throughout the city.
View full Arlington rules →Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth regulates floodplain development under Chapter 35 of the Code of Ordinances and participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The city lies along the Trinity River, West Fork, Clear Fork, and Marine Creek with significant FEMA-mapped flood zones. Sec. 35-27 requires a floodplain development permit for any construction or substantial improvement in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). Fort Worth enforces a 1-foot freeboard above the base flood elevation for new residential structures.
View full Fort Worth rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Fort Worth |
|---|---|---|
| Elevation Requirement | 1 foot above BFE for residential | - |
| Major Creeks | Johnson Creek, Rush Creek | - |
| NFIP Participant | Yes | - |
| CRS Rating | Participant — insurance discounts | - |
| Substantial Improvement | 50% of market value triggers compliance | - |
| Code Section | - | Chapter 35 (Flood Prevention and Protection) |
| NFIP Participation | - | Active participant |
| Freeboard | - | 1 foot above base flood elevation |
| Permit Required | - | Floodplain development permit (Sec. 35-27) |
| Major Waterways | - | Trinity River, West Fork, Clear Fork, Marine Creek |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Is my Arlington property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or the city's Floodplain Administration office. Properties near Johnson Creek, Rush Creek, and their tributaries are most likely in flood zones.
Can I build in a flood zone in Arlington?
Yes, with a floodplain development permit. Residential structures must be elevated at least one foot above BFE. Non-residential may be floodproofed.
Fort Worth FAQ
Do I need a permit to build in a Fort Worth flood zone?
Yes. Chapter 35 requires a floodplain development permit for any construction, fill, or substantial improvement within a FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Area.
How high must my house be above the flood level?
Fort Worth requires new residential structures in the SFHA to be elevated at least 1 foot above the base flood elevation (BFE) as shown on FEMA flood maps.
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