Houston, TX Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Sections
- Houston Code Ch. 19; Design Manual Ch. 9
- Grading Plan
- Required for >1,000 cubic yards of fill
- Zero Net Fill
- Applies to 500-year floodplain
- Detention Exemption
- Lots ≤15,000 sq ft with ≤65% impervious cover
- Post-Harvey Reform
- 2018 amendments significantly tightened requirements
Summary
Houston's Chapter 19 and Design Manual Chapter 9 impose strict grading and drainage requirements. Detention is required for most new development. An engineered grading plan is mandatory for more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill. Post-Harvey rules expanded Zero Net Fill to the 500-year floodplain.
Sec. 232.003. SUBDIVISION REQUIREMENTS. By an order adopted and entered in the minutes of the commissioners court, and after a notice is published in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, the commissioners court may: ... (5) adopt reasonable specifications to provide adequate drainage for each street or road in a subdivision in accordance with standard engineering practices; ... (8) adopt reasonable specifications that provide for drainage in the subdivision to: (A) efficiently manage the flow of stormwater runoff in the subdivision; and (B) coordinate subdivision drainage with the general storm drainage pattern for the area ...
Full Breakdown
Under Houston's floodplain ordinance (Chapter 19) and Design Manual Chapter 9, all development within city limits must comply with drainage and grading requirements. The post-Harvey 2018 amendments eliminated the detention credit for impervious cover and focused requirements on proposed improvements. Lots 15,000 sq ft or smaller with impervious cover at or below 65% are exempt from detention requirements. An engineered grading plan is required for more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill (reduced from 5,000 cubic yards post-Harvey). The Zero Net Fill requirement now extends to the 500-year floodplain, meaning development cannot increase floodwater displacement. Erosion control methods are required when design velocities exceed 3 ft/sec. Property owners are responsible for not adversely impacting neighbors or city facilities regarding flood risks, erosion, infiltration, and siltation.
Violations & Fines
Grading and drainage violations result in stop-work orders, fines, and required remediation. Non-compliant development may be denied occupancy permits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a drainage plan for my Houston construction project?
What is Zero Net Fill in Houston?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Houston
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Erosion Control in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle erosion control.