Weakest Drainage Regulations in Texas Proposed for Austin?

Tomorrow, Thursday, February 13th, the Austin City Council will consider a proposal (Item 42) to remove drainage review requirements for residential developments with up to 16 units as part of the "Site Plan Lite" and "Infill Plat" initiatives. Aimed at streamlining housing construction, the Austin Planning Commission has proposed code changes that would eliminate drainage requirements for residential sites 1.5 acres or smaller. 

In a city already grappling with severe flooding issues (we’re literally "Flash Flood Alley), the Planning Commission’s recommendation is the opposite of climate resiliency.  Increasing pavement while reducing drainage infrastructure is a dangerous combination that could lead to more lot-to-lot flooding, property damage, and environmental degradation in our creeks. By removing drainage oversight for these projects, the city risks amplifying stormwater runoff, leading to localized flooding, creek erosion, and downstream harm. 

In the item’s backup material, City of Austin staff wrote that the PC proposal would result in the weakest drainage protections in Texas and could "negatively impact surrounding residents by increasing instances of lot-to-lot flooding." Larger developments, particularly those exceeding one acre, may further strain already overburdened drainage systems in neighborhoods prone to flooding, placing residents at even greater risk.

While affordable housing is an urgent priority, it should not come at the expense of community safety or environmental protections. Shifting the burden of flood prevention onto private residents instead of requiring developers to address these issues creates long-term risks, including costly property damage and legal battles. Austin must strike a balance between housing affordability and infrastructure resilience to ensure the safety and sustainability of its neighborhoods.
​
Join us in urging the Austin City Council to reject the proposed changes, in their entirety. More focus and consideration should be given to communities experiencing localized flooding and how to protect future residents with maintaining the City’s drainage review and requirements. 
 City Council Meeting: Thursday, February 13th
 Sign up to speak TODAY, February 12th by Noon.