Arlington, TX Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)
FEMA flood zone rules in Arlington, TX, also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules, determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Key Facts
- Elevation Requirement
- 1 foot above BFE for residential
- Major Creeks
- Johnson Creek, Rush Creek
- NFIP Participant
- Yes
- CRS Rating
- Participant: insurance discounts
- Substantial Improvement
- 50% of market value triggers compliance
Summary
Arlington regulates development in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas through its Floodplain Administration program. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Johnson Creek, Rush Creek, and their tributaries create significant flood risks throughout the city.
Floodplain Administration. The City of Arlington participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which provides flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners if their community agrees to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed the Federal Emergency Management Agency's NFIP requirements. The City's Public Works Department's Floodplain Administration is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of NFIP requirements through development standards found in the City's ordinances. The Flood Damage Prevention ordinance and other City development criteria are used to manage development within the floodplain. These floodplain management practices help reduce the risk of current and future flooding with in our community. [...] The City of Arlington also participates in the Community Rating System (CRS). The CRS program is administered by the NFIP and is a voluntary incentive program for communities. This program recognizes and encourages floodplain management practices within the City which exceed the minimum NFIP standards. In 2020, The City of Arlington increased their rating to a 5 which provides a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums.
Full Breakdown
Arlington's floodplain ordinance requires development permits for construction within Special Flood Hazard Areas. New residential construction must be elevated at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Non-residential structures may be floodproofed. Substantial improvements exceeding 50% of market value trigger full compliance. The city maintains updated FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Arlington participates in the Community Rating System (CRS) for insurance discounts.
Violations & Fines
Building in a floodplain without permits violates city ordinances and NFIP requirements. Penalties include fines and potential structure removal. Non-compliant properties face higher flood insurance premiums. The city can deny occupancy permits for non-compliant structures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is my Arlington property in a flood zone?
Can I build in a flood zone in Arlington?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Arlington
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Arlington to another location·View the Texas environmental rules overview
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Flood Zones in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle flood zones.