Baytown, TX Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

Baytown's stormwater management is critical given the city's geography in the San Jacinto River watershed near Galveston Bay, making it vulnerable to both riverine flooding and coastal storm surge. The city operates under a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit issued by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Construction projects disturbing one acre or more must obtain a TCEQ Construction General Permit and implement a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) before breaking ground. The SWPPP must include erosion and sediment controls, construction waste management, and post-construction stormwater management measures. For residential properties, homeowners may not grade, fill, or otherwise modify their property in a way that redirects stormwater runoff onto adjacent properties. Downspouts, gutters, and yard drainage must be directed to appropriate outlets. Dumping of any materials into storm drains is prohibited, including yard waste, oil, paint, chemicals, and pool water. The city maintains a storm sewer system separate from the sanitary sewer, and cross-connections are prohibited. New development must comply with detention and retention requirements to prevent increased runoff rates. Baytown participates in the National Flood Insurance Program through its floodplain management ordinance. The Harris County Flood Control District also provides regional stormwater management oversight for areas of Baytown within Harris County.