Nueces County, TX Environmental Rules: Erosion Control (2026)

2, is aimed at protecting downstream drainageways from erosion and sedimentation caused by new development. Subsection (b) requires that unconcentrated sheet flow which may cause erosion or sedimentation be diverted to a stable outlet or a detention facility rather than discharged directly. Where a subdivision would increase runoff beyond what an existing receiving channel can safely carry, subsection (d) requires the subdivider to improve the downstream channel until an adequate section is reached, redesign the site so predevelopment peak runoff does not increase, or combine channel improvements with storm water detention.

8 governs the channels themselves: they must carry a minimum of six inches of freeboard at the design storm, side slopes should be no steeper than 3:1 (horizontal to vertical), and grass-lined channels are capped at a 4-foot-per-second design velocity unless erosion control methods are incorporated into the channel design. 9 requires the Rational Method for the underlying runoff calculations. 5, which the Department of Public Works reviews before the Commissioners Court will approve the final plat. The standard reaches new subdivision construction; it is not a general construction-site erosion permit for work outside the platting process.