Grading & Drainage: Irving vs Richardson
How do grading & drainage rules compare between Irving, TX and Richardson, TX?
Irving and Richardson have similar restriction levels.
Irving, TX
Dallas County
Irving requires grading permits for land disturbance activities under the Land 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. Irving's relatively flat North Texas terrain requires engineered drainage solutions for larger developments.
View full Irving 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 | Irving | Richardson |
|---|---|---|
| Permit Required | Grading permit for land disturbance | - |
| Drainage Standard | Detain post-development runoff to pre-development rates | - |
| Design Storm | 100-year storm event for major drainage | - |
| Review Authority | Irving Engineering Division | - |
| Adjacent Impact | Must not increase drainage onto neighbors | - |
| 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.
Irving FAQ
When do I need a grading permit in Irving?
A grading permit is generally required for any significant land disturbance, including site preparation for new construction, lot regrading, and drainage modifications. Contact Irving Development Services for specific thresholds.
What are Irving's drainage detention requirements?
Development must detain stormwater so that post-development runoff does not exceed pre-development rates. Detention facilities are designed based on the 100-year storm event. Engineering plans must be submitted with development applications.
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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