Houston SWPPP requirements (2026)
Houston wants a copy of your NOI or notice at least 2 days before earth work.
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Key takeaways
- Send the City of Houston a copy of your NOI or Construction Site Notice at least 2 days before earth disturbing activities.
- Post the notice at the entrance and keep the SWPPP available for the inspector.
- The city says all construction sites within city limits are inspected, without notice.
- The city does not issue the construction stormwater permit.
TCEQ's permit applies in Houston, and the city treats it as the floor. Check the state rules first in do I need a SWPPP.
What did we verify for Houston?
| Topic | What the city's page says |
|---|---|
| Copy to the city | "You must notify the City of Houston with a copy of your NOI ... or a copy of your CSN ... at least two (2) days prior to any earth disturbing activities" |
| Permit and plan review | The city does not issue this permit. Plan review: not required. Re-inspection fee: $109.46 |
| Inspections | All construction sites within city limits will be inspected, unannounced. Enforcement actions may be taken |
| Post-construction | A separate Storm Water Quality permit for new and redevelopment asks for a signed and sealed plan cover page |
| Grading and fill | A building-permit application plus Form CE-1094. Fill over 1 foot at the property line needs a Texas engineer's retaining wall design |
What is Harris County's role?
In unincorporated areas, county inspectors enforce the TCEQ permit and the Harris County Stormwater Quality Management Regulations.
The county's Stormwater Quality permit is issued as part of the Civil Development Plan Review and renewed yearly after a Certificate of Compliance.
What should I check with the city?
- Fine amounts and stop-work powers: not found. Check with the city.
- Rules for a single-family lot in a subdivision: not found. Check with the city.
- The current city stormwater handbook: check with the city.
FAQ
Do I send the city a copy of my small-site notice?
Yes. The city page asks for a copy of the NOI or the Construction Site Notice at least 2 days before earth disturbing activities.
Does Houston issue my stormwater permit?
No. TCEQ's permit is the construction permit. The city says it does not issue it.
Facts and sources
- Houston Permitting Center construction site stormwater page
- Harris County stormwater quality inspections
- Read Nov 13 2026. The city's code was not read in full.
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