Harris County requires all new development in unincorporated areas to obtain permits for grading and drainage work. The Harris County Flood Control District and Office of the County Engineer enforce strict stormwater detention and drainage standards to mitigate flooding.
All new development and significant redevelopment in unincorporated Harris County must comply with the Regulations of Harris County for Floodplain Management and Infrastructure standards. Developers must submit drainage area maps, detention pond designs, and restrictor specifications. Minimum grades for roadside ditches are 0.1 foot per 100 feet. The HCFCD Hydrology and Hydraulics Guidance Manual governs stormwater calculations. A floodplain development permit is required for any work in FEMA A or V zones. Deficiencies noted during inspection must be corrected within 72 hours.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Harris County code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Harris County, TX
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Harris County, TX
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See how Harris County's grading & drainage rules stack up against other locations.
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