Stormwater Management: Dallas vs Mesquite
How do stormwater management rules compare between Dallas, TX and Mesquite, TX?
Dallas and Mesquite have similar restriction levels.
Dallas, TX
Dallas County
Dallas City Code Chapter 19, Article IX (Stormwater Drainage System) prohibits harmful discharges into the stormwater system. Sec. 19-118.2 makes it an offense to discharge sediment, chemicals, or other pollutants. Sec. 19-118.6 regulates stormwater from construction activities. The Development Code Sec. 51A-8.611 requires storm drainage facilities to safely drain a 1% annual chance storm event per the Dallas Drainage Design Manual. A stormwater drainage utility fee funds the system under Sec. 2-168.
View full Dallas rules →Mesquite, TX
Dallas County
Mesquite operates an MS4 stormwater system under TPDES permit. Illicit discharges to storm drains are prohibited and construction sites disturbing 1+ acres need SWPPP.
View full Mesquite rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Mesquite |
|---|---|---|
| Discharge Prohibition | Ch. 19, Art. IX, Sec. 19-118.2 | - |
| Construction | Sec. 19-118.6 (construction stormwater) | - |
| Design Standard | 1% annual chance storm (Sec. 51A-8.611) | - |
| Utility Fee | Stormwater drainage utility (Sec. 2-168) | - |
| Pesticides | Sec. 19-118.3 regulates application | - |
| - | - |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Dallas FAQ
What can I not discharge into Dallas storm drains?
Under Sec. 19-118.2, it is an offense to discharge sediment, silt, chemicals, oils, or other pollutants into the stormwater drainage system. This includes construction runoff and pesticide/herbicide overspray.
What is the stormwater drainage utility fee?
Dallas charges a stormwater drainage utility fee under Sec. 2-168 to fund maintenance of the drainage system. Exemptions and incentives exist for residential properties with stormwater management features.
Mesquite FAQ
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