Stormwater Management: Dallas vs Richardson
How do stormwater management rules compare between Dallas, TX and Richardson, TX?
Richardson has fewer restrictions than Dallas.
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 →Richardson, TX
Dallas County
Richardson manages stormwater through the Municipal Drainage Utility System established by ordinance in 2011-2012. Chapter 20.5 addresses stormwater and bridge/waterway management. A drainage fee funds the system.
View full Richardson rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Dallas | Richardson |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Code Section | - | Ch. 20.5; Sec. 13-2 |
| Drainage Utility | - | Est. 2011-2012 |
| Drainage Fee | - | Assessed on all properties |
| MS4 Permit | - | EPA/TCEQ Clean Water Act |
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.
Richardson FAQ
What is the drainage fee in Richardson?
The drainage fee is assessed on all properties to fund the Municipal Drainage Utility System. Check cor.net for current rates.
Can I redirect drainage on my property?
No. Sec. 13-2 prohibits constructing obstructions that divert water from its natural course or onto other properties.
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