Grapevine, TX Environmental Rules: Grading & Drainage (2026)

Grapevine's building, engineering, and drainage standards require that every lot be graded so that stormwater drains positively away from the foundation of buildings and toward public streets, approved drainage swales, or stormwater facilities. New residential construction requires a drainage and grading plan submitted with the building permit, typically prepared by a licensed engineer or designer. The International Residential Code (adopted with local amendments) requires a minimum 6-inch fall within the first 10 feet from the foundation. Lot drainage cannot be altered in a manner that sends additional water onto neighboring properties; the Texas Water Code and common law establish that a landowner cannot collect and discharge concentrated surface water onto a neighbor without an easement. Retaining walls over 4 feet require engineered plans and a building permit, and all retaining walls must provide adequate drainage behind them. Fill in drainage easements and floodplain is restricted. Swimming pool excavation must account for drainage and cannot block flow paths. Landscaping changes that create berms or re-grade the yard can violate the drainage plan approved at construction. Drainage complaints between neighbors are investigated by Public Works and Code Enforcement; persistent violations can result in orders to regrade at the owner's expense. Contact Engineering at (817) 410-3138.