Tomball regulates stormwater management through its floodplain and drainage ordinances. New development and substantial improvements must include stormwater detention to prevent increased runoff. The city participates in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program. Harris County Flood Control District coordinates regional drainage infrastructure affecting Tomball.
Tomball's stormwater management regulations require new development and redevelopment projects to manage runoff so that post-development peak discharge does not exceed pre-development levels. Detention facilities must be designed by a licensed professional engineer and constructed according to city standards. The city requires stormwater pollution prevention plans for construction sites disturbing one acre or more, consistent with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality TPDES general permit. Projects must demonstrate compliance with Harris County Flood Control District criteria for developments within the HCFCD watershed. Low-impact development techniques such as permeable paving, rain gardens, and bioswales are encouraged. Stormwater drainage plans are required as part of the site development permit process. The city enforces illicit discharge prohibitions — dumping oil, chemicals, paint, or other pollutants into storm drains is prohibited. Tomball participates in FEMA's Community Rating System to provide flood insurance discounts. Contact Public Works at (281) 290-1012 for stormwater permit requirements.
Failure to install required detention facilities may result in stop-work orders and denial of certificates of occupancy. Illicit discharge into storm drains carries fines up to $2,000 per violation per day. Construction sites without proper erosion controls face TCEQ enforcement and city citations.
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