Grading & Drainage: Dallas vs Richardson
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Dallas, TX and Richardson, TX?
Richardson 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 →Richardson, TX
Dallas County
Richardson requires proper grading and drainage on all development projects. Sec. 13-2 prohibits diverting water from its natural course. Retaining walls over 4 feet must be designed by a licensed professional engineer.
View full Richardson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Richardson |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Water Diversion | - | Prohibited (Sec. 13-2) |
| Retaining Walls | - | Engineer required if >4 ft |
| Subdivisions | - | Ch. 21 drainage requirements |
| Standard | - | Direct water to approved drainage |
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.
Richardson FAQ
Can I change the grading on my property in Richardson?
Grading changes must not divert water onto neighboring properties or public areas per Sec. 13-2. Retaining walls over 4 feet need engineering.
Do retaining walls need a permit in Richardson?
Retaining walls over 4 feet high (bottom of footing to top) or supporting a surcharge must be designed by a licensed professional engineer and require a permit.
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