Floodplain Building Requires County Engineering Review

Creeks, branches, and lake edges still matter in suburban Collin County. The county's floodplain regulations say all development and new construction within a FEMA-designated floodplain require review and approval by the Director of Engineering, who also serves as the county Floodplain Administrator.

The rules call for a pre-development meeting to discuss flood-study requirements. Depending on the site, a development floodplain permit may require a flood study, and that can change finished-floor height, drainage design, and where a structure can sit on the lot.

Before buying or building near a creek, lake arm, or mapped low area, check the FEMA flood maps and talk with Collin County Engineering early. City permits may also apply, but for unincorporated projects the county floodplain rules are the ones to confirm first.