Laredo, TX Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)

Laredo floodplain ordinance, adopted under Section 24-69.1 through 24-69.7 of the Land Development Code, tracks the Flood Insurance Study for Webb County dated April 2, 2008, and the Flood Insurance Rate Maps adopted with it. Section 24-69.7.B.(1) sets the technical construction standard: new construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure must have the lowest floor, including the basement and attendant utilities such as junction boxes, HVAC systems, and hot water heaters, elevated eighteen inches or more above the base flood elevation. A registered professional engineer, architect, or land surveyor must certify that standard to the Floodplain Administrator, a role the Building Director holds under Section 24-69.6.

Nonresidential structures get an alternative: elevate to the same eighteen-inch standard, or floodproof the structure below that level so it is watertight and can resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads, with a professional engineer or architect certifying the floodproofing design. Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in the mapped flood zones must also have their lowest floor elevated eighteen inches or more above base flood elevation and be anchored to resist flotation and lateral movement.

A Floodplain Development Permit from the Floodplain Administrator is required before any construction in a special flood hazard area, and an elevation certificate must be filed before the foundation is poured. The Board of Adjustment can grant variances only on a finding of good and sufficient cause and exceptional hardship, and any variance granted below the base flood elevation triggers a written notice to the applicant that flood insurance costs will rise to match the increased risk.