Grading & Drainage: Dallas vs Garland
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Dallas, TX and Garland, TX?
Garland has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas Development Code Sec. 51A-8.611 sets comprehensive requirements for grading and drainage. All storm drainage facilities must be designed to safely convey a 1% annual chance storm event per the Dallas Drainage Design Manual. Erosion control plans are required for any grading or clearing activity. Financial assurance is required for grading improvements. The city requires that development not increase stormwater runoff onto adjacent properties without proper management.
View full Dallas rules →Garland, TX
Dallas County
Garland requires grading permits for land disturbance activities under the Development Code. All development must manage drainage to prevent adverse impacts on adjacent properties. Post-development stormwater runoff must be detained to match or reduce pre-development flow rates. The city's terrain varies from flat to gently rolling, requiring engineered drainage solutions for developments near creek corridors.
View full Garland rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Garland |
|---|---|---|
| Code Section | Sec. 51A-8.611 (Storm Drainage Design) | - |
| Design Standard | 1% annual chance storm capacity | - |
| Manual | Dallas Drainage Design Manual | - |
| Financial Assurance | Required for grading improvements | - |
| Adjacent Property | No increased runoff without management | - |
| Permit Required | - | Grading permit for land disturbance |
| Drainage Standard | - | Detain to pre-development rates |
| Design Storm | - | 100-year event for major drainage |
| Review Authority | - | Garland Engineering Department |
| Creek Corridors | - | Special attention near Duck/Rowlett Creek |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
What drainage standard does Dallas require?
All storm drainage facilities must safely convey a 1% annual chance (100-year) storm event per the Dallas Drainage Design Manual under Sec. 51A-8.611.
Can my development increase runoff to neighboring properties?
Dallas requires that development manage stormwater so as not to increase runoff onto adjacent properties without proper drainage infrastructure.
Garland FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Garland?
A grading permit is required for significant land disturbance including site preparation, lot regrading, and drainage modifications. Contact Garland Engineering for thresholds.
What are Garland's drainage requirements?
Development must detain post-development runoff to pre-development rates. Detention facilities are designed for the 100-year storm event. Engineering plans must be submitted with development applications.
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