Where We Live
Texas Bill Allows Counties to Regulate Hard Surfaces
HB 117 lets county commissioners control impervious cover in unincorporated areas to reduce flooding and support drainage.
By Texas Legislature -- Apr 13, 2026
Overview
HB 117 is a state law that expands what county commissioners can do to manage flooding and water in rural areas. Right now, counties have limited power over impervious cover—hard surfaces like concrete, asphalt, roofs, and parking lots that prevent water from soaking into the ground. When rain falls on these surfaces, water runs off quickly and can cause flooding downstream.
This bill gives county commissioners the authority to set rules about impervious cover in unincorporated areas, which are parts of the county outside city limits. Counties could use this power to reduce flood risk, improve drainage systems, and encourage nature-based solutions like rain gardens, green roofs, and permeable pavements that let water soak in naturally.
The law has four main purposes. First, it helps protect communities by reducing flood risk. Second, it supports the development of flood prevention projects. Third, it improves drainage infrastructure. Fourth, it promotes features based on nature—like wetlands and vegetation—that naturally reduce flooding and filter stormwater.
This change matters for our community because unincorporated areas often have fewer protections than cities do. Giving counties this new tool helps them plan better for heavy rain and protect more people from flooding. The bill takes effect 91 days after the legislative session ends, which means implementation could begin soon.
Resources
About the source
The Texas Legislature is the state legislature of Texas, consisting of the House of Representatives with 150 members and the Senate with 31 members. Meeting in regular session every two years, the legislature passes state laws, sets the budget, and shapes policies affecting all 30 million Texans.
Knowledge Graph
How this connects
Connections across learning, action, organizations, and policy.
Choose your next step
Every page is a door. Where do you want to go?