Houston's Chapter 19 and Design Manual Chapter 9 impose strict grading and drainage requirements. Detention is required for most new development. An engineered grading plan is mandatory for more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill. Post-Harvey rules expanded Zero Net Fill to the 500-year floodplain.
Under Houston's floodplain ordinance (Chapter 19) and Design Manual Chapter 9, all development within city limits must comply with drainage and grading requirements. The post-Harvey 2018 amendments eliminated the detention credit for impervious cover and focused requirements on proposed improvements. Lots 15,000 sq ft or smaller with impervious cover at or below 65% are exempt from detention requirements. An engineered grading plan is required for more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill (reduced from 5,000 cubic yards post-Harvey). The Zero Net Fill requirement now extends to the 500-year floodplain, meaning development cannot increase floodwater displacement. Erosion control methods are required when design velocities exceed 3 ft/sec. Property owners are responsible for not adversely impacting neighbors or city facilities regarding flood risks, erosion, infiltration, and siltation.
Grading and drainage violations result in stop-work orders, fines, and required remediation. Non-compliant development may be denied occupancy permits.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Harris County.
See how other cities in Harris County handle grading & drainage.
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