What this is
HB 117 lets county commissioners control impervious cover in unincorporated areas to reduce flooding and support drainage.
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.
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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.
Key details
- Bill number: HB 117
- Sponsor: Erin Zwiener
- Status: Introduced
- Effective date: 91 days after legislative session ends
About Texas Legislature
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 stat…
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Why it matters
This is part of Our Neighborhoods — housing, neighborhoods, and shared spaces.
How this affects households
Under $30,000
Families in flood-prone rural areas get better protection from flooding damage to their homes and belongings. Lower-income households often can't afford flood insurance or major repairs.
$30,000-$60,000
Working families in unincorporated areas benefit from reduced flood risk and better drainage. These households often struggle to recover financially from flood damage.
$60,000-$100,000
Middle-income families gain flood protection but may face new county rules about their property's hard surfaces. The flood benefits likely outweigh any new requirements.
Over $100,000
Higher-income households get flood protection but may face the most restrictions on large driveways, patios, and other hard surfaces on their properties.
How to get involved
- 1Start with the snapshot above to know what this is in a glance.
- 2Read why it matters so you can speak to it in your own words.
- 3Weigh in using the button above.
When you call, you can say: “Hi, I saw "Texas Bill Allows Counties to Regulate Hard Surfaces" on Community Exchange and want to know how to take part.”
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