Katy vs Richmond
How do flood zones rules compare between Katy, TX and Richmond, TX?
Katy and Richmond have similar restriction levels.
Katy, TX
Fort Bend County
Katy's flood damage prevention article requires anchoring, flood-resistant construction, and floodplain administrator approval for all new construction and substantial improvements in special and moderate flood hazard areas.
View full Katy rules →Richmond, TX
Fort Bend County
Richmond requires a floodplain development permit for any work in mapped flood hazard areas, with elevation, anchoring, and floodproofing standards under UDC Division 4.3.200 and Section 16.4.
View full Richmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Katy | Richmond |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | Texas Water Code 16.315 | - |
| Areas covered | Special and moderate hazard | - |
| Administrator | City building inspector | - |
| Federal rules | 44 CFR NFIP | - |
| Subdivisions | Drainage required | - |
| UDC Division | - | 4.3.200 Floodplain |
| Maps | - | FEMA FIRM adopted |
| Permit | - | Floodplain development permit |
| Standard | - | Lowest floor at/above BFE |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Katy FAQ
What counts as a substantial improvement?
Federally, any repair, reconstruction, or improvement whose cost equals or exceeds 50 percent of the structure's market value before improvement. Katy follows the 44 CFR definition.
Can I build in a Katy floodplain?
Only with floodplain administrator approval and elevation, anchoring, and flood-resistant materials meeting the ordinance and 44 CFR. Some uses are flatly prohibited.
Who is the floodplain administrator?
Katy's city building inspector administers the flood damage prevention ordinance and ensures NFIP compliance under 44 CFR.
Richmond FAQ
Do I need a permit to build in a Richmond flood zone?
Yes. Any development in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area in Richmond requires a floodplain development permit under UDC Division 4.3.200 before construction, fill, or substantial improvements begin.
How high must my new home be elevated?
New residential structures in Richmond's flood hazard areas must have their lowest floor elevated to or above the base flood elevation shown on the adopted FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
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