Grading & Drainage: Fort Worth vs North Richland Hills
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Fort Worth, TX and North Richland Hills, TX?
Fort Worth and North Richland Hills have similar restriction levels.
Fort Worth, TX
Tarrant County
Fort Worth regulates grading and drainage through the Development Code and the Storm Water Management Design Manual. A grading permit is required for earthwork exceeding specified thresholds. Drainage plans must demonstrate that post-development runoff does not exceed pre-development rates for the 25-year storm event. Fill placement must not redirect drainage onto adjacent properties. The Public Works Department reviews grading plans as part of the development permitting process.
View full Fort Worth rules →North Richland Hills, TX
Tarrant County
NRH requires grading permits for significant earthwork and mandates positive drainage away from all structures. Runoff cannot be diverted onto neighboring properties, and drainage swales and easements must remain unobstructed.
View full North Richland Hills rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Worth | North Richland Hills |
|---|---|---|
| Design Standard | 25-year storm event for detention | - |
| Review Authority | Public Works / Development Services | - |
| Adjacent Properties | Cannot redirect drainage onto neighbors | - |
| Grading Permit | Required for earthwork above thresholds | 50 cubic yards or in easement |
| Reference | Storm Water Management Design Manual | - |
| Foundation Slope | - | 5 percent over 10 feet |
| Downspout Setback | - | 5 feet from line |
| Drainage Easement | - | Cannot be obstructed |
| Wall Engineering | - | Over 4 feet requires PE |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Worth FAQ
Do I need a grading permit in Fort Worth?
A grading permit is required for significant earthwork projects. Contact Fort Worth Development Services to determine if your project meets the threshold requiring a permit.
Can I change drainage patterns on my property?
You cannot redirect stormwater onto neighboring properties. Grading and drainage modifications must comply with the Storm Water Management Design Manual and maintain predevelopment flow patterns.
North Richland Hills FAQ
My neighbor's new patio is flooding my yard in NRH. What can I do?
File a complaint with NRH Code Compliance at (817) 427-6650. The city can enforce drainage easement rules and positive drainage requirements, though pure cost disputes are civil matters between neighbors.
Do I need a permit to regrade my backyard?
Minor regrading (less than 50 cubic yards, outside easements, no change to drainage patterns affecting neighbors) typically does not need a permit. Larger projects or work near easements requires a grading permit.
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