El Paso Stormwater Connection Permits - Builders

Environmental Protection Texas 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 07, 2026 Flag of Texas

In El Paso, Texas, builders must obtain a stormwater connection permit before tying private drainage to the city storm sewer or making changes that affect runoff. This guide explains which city office issues permits, how to apply, typical documentation, enforcement routes, and where to find official forms and codes. Follow the steps below to confirm requirements early in design, avoid delays at plan review, and reduce the risk of enforcement actions during construction.

Contact the city permit office early to confirm site-specific stormwater connection conditions.

Which department issues stormwater connection permits

The Development Services Department coordinates permitting for connections that affect public drainage and the right-of-way. For technical review and inspection, the City Public Works - Drainage or Stormwater section enforces stormwater standards and approves final connections. Official permit pages and the municipal code explain procedural and technical requirements for private connections to the public storm system. Development Services - Permits[1]

How to apply - overview

Apply before construction or before connecting to a public storm sewer. Typical steps include submittal of civil drainage plans, an application form, erosion and sediment control measures (SWPPP or equivalent), and coordination for inspection scheduling. Applicants should confirm whether a right-of-way permit, grading permit, or encroachment agreement is required.

  1. Prepare civil and drainage plans showing proposed connection, invert elevations, and sediment controls.
  2. Complete the city permit application and attach supporting documents.
  3. Pay application and review fees as required by the Development Services fee schedule.
  4. Schedule inspection with Public Works for the connection and final approval.

Applications & Forms

Official application forms and checklists are maintained by Development Services and by Public Works for right-of-way and drainage work. If a specific "Stormwater Connection Permit" form is not published separately, applicants must submit the applicable right-of-way or drainage permit application and attach the stormwater plan.

  • Application form name: not specified on the cited page; check the Development Services permit page for the current permit packet.[1]
  • Deadlines: submit with project plan set at initial permit application or as required during plan review; exact schedule not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Fees: refer to the Development Services fee schedule for project-specific review and inspection fees; specific fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Submit stormwater documentation with the primary permit application to avoid separate review delays.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of stormwater connection rules is managed by City Public Works / Stormwater and Development Services through code violations, stop-work orders, and corrective action requirements. The municipal code and enforcement policies describe prohibited discharges, required approvals for connections, and remedies.

  • Monetary fines: specific fine amounts for unlawful connections or illicit discharges are not specified on the cited municipal code summary page; see the municipal code for details.[2]
  • Escalation: the code provides for initial notices, orders to correct, and potential civil enforcement; exact escalation ranges and per-day penalties are not specified on the cited page.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to restore or remove unauthorized connections, injunctive relief, and civil actions can be imposed by the city.
  • Enforcer and complaints: Public Works - Stormwater handles inspections and complaints; contact Development Services for permit review issues. See the city stormwater program for reporting illicit discharges.[3]
  • Appeals: appeal routes are typically to the city review or appeals board or through administrative appeals described in the municipal code; specific time limits for filing appeals are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with Development Services.[2]
If work has begun without a permit, stop and contact Development Services immediately to reduce enforcement risk.

Common violations

  • Connecting to the public storm sewer without approval.
  • Altering public drainage infrastructure without a right-of-way permit.
  • Failing to implement required erosion and sediment controls during construction.

How-To

  1. Confirm project jurisdiction and determine whether the proposed work impacts public storm infrastructure.
  2. Assemble civil drainage plans, erosion control plans, and the site plan required for review.
  3. Submit permit application and supporting documents to Development Services; pay fees.
  4. Coordinate with Public Works for any right-of-way or encroachment permits and schedule inspections for the connection.
  5. Obtain final approval and record any required as-built drawings or certifications.
Retain inspection records and as-built drawings to support final acceptance of the connection.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to tie my private drainage into the city storm sewer?
Yes. Connections that affect the public storm system generally require approval through Development Services and review by Public Works; confirm requirements for your site with the city.[1]
Where do I submit the application?
Applications are submitted to the City of El Paso Development Services Department; check the Development Services permits page for current submission instructions.[1]
What happens if there is an illegal connection or pollution?
The city may issue notices, require corrective work, assess fines, and pursue civil enforcement under the municipal code; specific penalties should be confirmed in the municipal code and with Public Works.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Obtain permits before construction to avoid stop-work orders and corrective orders.
  • Submit complete drainage and erosion-control plans with your permit application.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of El Paso Development Services - Permits
  2. [2] El Paso Municipal Code - Code of Ordinances (Municode)
  3. [3] Texas Commission on Environmental Quality - Stormwater

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