Arlington, TX Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing Authority
- Arlington Stormwater Management Dept
- State Authority
- TCEQ NPDES permit
- Fee Basis
- Impervious surface area
- Design Standard
- iSWM criteria
- Watershed
- Trinity River tributaries
Summary
Arlington enforces stormwater management regulations through its Stormwater Management Department and the city's Code of Ordinances. The city operates under a Phase I MS4 NPDES permit from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Arlington prohibits illicit discharges to the municipal storm drain system.
Stormwater Management. Stormwater Field Operations: Maintaining the current stormwater infrastructure throughout the City is an important part of the Stormwater Program as it helps ensure that the stormwater infrastructure's flood carrying capacity is maintained. Stormwater Capital Program: The Stormwater Capital Improvement Program includes projects to mitigate flooding and maintain existing infrastructure. 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 FEMA's NFIP requirements. Environmental Compliance: Our goal is to protect and improve the health and quality of local waterways by providing the highest level of environmental protection. [...] Stormwater Utility Billing: Residential and Commercial property owners are charged a monthly stormwater utility fee which funds maintenance, construction, and improvement of the stormwater drainage system.
Full Breakdown
Arlington's stormwater ordinance requires management plans for new development and redevelopment. All construction sites must implement erosion and sediment controls. The city charges stormwater utility fees based on impervious surface. Development must comply with the city's Stormwater Design Manual and the North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) iSWM criteria. Low Impact Development techniques are encouraged. The city monitors stormwater quality in tributaries of the Trinity River.
Violations & Fines
Illicit discharges to the storm drain system violate city ordinances and carry fines. The city can issue stop-work orders for construction sites without proper controls. TCEQ may impose additional state penalties. Repeat violations face escalating fines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are stormwater fees calculated in Arlington?
What stormwater standards apply to new development?
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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Stormwater Management in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Tarrant County handle stormwater management.