Flood Zones: Dallas vs Garland
How do flood zones rules compare between Dallas, TX and Garland, TX?
Dallas and Garland have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas Development Code Chapter 51A, Article V (Floodplain and Escarpment Zone Regulations) regulates development in the 1% annual chance (100-year) floodplain. All residential and commercial development in the regulatory floodplain is reviewed by the city before permits are issued. Property owners may need fill permits and floodplain alteration permits before construction. The ordinance meets or exceeds FEMA NFIP minimum criteria under 44 CFR Part 60.3(d). Dallas participates in the Community Rating System for flood insurance discounts.
View full Dallas rules →Garland, TX
Dallas County
Garland regulates floodplain development under Article VII of Chapter 31 of the City Code (Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance). The city participates in the NFIP and enforces FEMA flood zone designations along Duck Creek, Rowlett Creek, and Lake Ray Hubbard shoreline areas. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires a floodplain development permit, and structures must be elevated above the base flood elevation.
View full Garland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Ch. 51A, Art. V (Floodplain Regulations) | City Code Ch. 31, Art. VII |
| Standard | 1% annual chance (100-year) floodplain | - |
| FEMA Compliance | Meets 44 CFR Part 60.3(d) | - |
| Permits | Fill permit and floodplain alteration permit may be required | - |
| NFIP | Participates in Community Rating System | - |
| NFIP Status | - | Active participant |
| Major Flood Areas | - | Duck Creek, Rowlett Creek, Lake Ray Hubbard |
| Elevation Req | - | Above base flood elevation |
| Permit Required | - | Floodplain development permit for SFHA |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
Can I build in a Dallas floodplain?
Development in the regulatory floodplain requires city review and may need fill permits and floodplain alteration permits under Article V. All construction must meet or exceed FEMA NFIP criteria.
How do I check if my property is in a flood zone?
Contact Dallas Water Utilities Stormwater Operations or check FEMA flood maps. The city reviews all development in the 1% annual chance floodplain before issuing permits.
Garland FAQ
Is my Garland property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center or contact Garland's Engineering Department. Properties near Duck Creek, Rowlett Creek, and Lake Ray Hubbard are most likely in Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Can I build in a flood zone in Garland?
Yes, with a floodplain development permit. Structures must be elevated above the base flood elevation. All development in flood zones must conform to the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
Compare other topics
See how Dallas and Garland compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool