Pearland, TX Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

Any construction, substantial improvement, or other development within an area of special flood hazard or moderate flood hazard in Pearland's jurisdiction requires a floodplain development permit under Code of Ordinances § 10½-33. The application goes through the city's permits department to the floodplain administrator, and must include a drainage impact analysis showing no adverse impact to the drainage system, along with the base flood elevation (BFE), the required minimum lowest finished floor elevation (LFF), and an elevation certification or survey for as-built construction, per § 10½-53(a). A construction plan approved by the engineering department serves as the floodplain development permit itself.

The floodplain administrator weighs ten factors before approving or denying an application, including the danger to life and property from flooding or erosion, the safety of emergency vehicle access during a flood, and the availability of alternative, non-flood-prone locations for the proposed use (§ 10½-53(b)). Once issued, a permit expires if work has not begun within 180 days, though the administrator may grant one or more 180-day extensions in writing for justifiable cause (§ 10½-53(c)).

Property owners who cannot meet the elevation or floodproofing standards may seek a variance from the construction board of adjustment and appeals under § 10½-54, but the board must find good and sufficient cause, exceptional hardship, and that granting relief will not raise flood heights or endanger public safety; variances inside a designated floodway are barred outright for new construction. The floodplain administrator may also issue stop-work orders under § 10½-56 for work done contrary to the chapter or in an unsafe manner, effective immediately on oral notice with written confirmation to follow within 24 hours.