Wichita Falls Stormwater, Sewer and Flood Control Rules

Environmental Protection Texas 3 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of Texas

Wichita Falls, Texas maintains local rules addressing stormwater, sewer connections, drainage infrastructure, and flood controls to protect public health and property. This article summarizes the municipal code and city program responsibilities, how enforcement and penalties operate, where to find permits and forms, and step-by-step actions for reporting discharges or applying for sewer and drainage work. For code language and ordinance text see the city code and related stormwater program materials.City Code[1] For local program guidance from Public Works see the city stormwater pages.Stormwater Program[2] State stormwater permits and MS4 requirements are managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.TCEQ[3]

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and the city stormwater program set enforcement tools for illicit discharges, unauthorized sewer connections, obstruction of drainage, and violations of floodplain rules. Specific monetary fines, escalation, and non-monetary remedies are documented in the ordinances and department enforcement policies.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page; the code provides for continuing violation provisions and daily penalties where enacted.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: abatement orders, stop-work notices, mandatory corrective actions, lien placement on property, and court injunctions are authorized under the municipal code.[1]
  • Enforcer and inspection: Public Works/Stormwater and Code Enforcement inspect, issue notices, and coordinate enforcement; complaints accepted via the Public Works department contact page.Public Works contact[2]
  • Appeals and review: the municipal code establishes appeal routes to municipal court or administrative hearing bodies; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.[1]
Document any corrective action you took before inspection to support an appeal.

Applications & Forms

  • Sewer connection and building permits: applications handled by Community Development/Building Inspection; permit fees and submittal methods are listed on the building permits page (see Help and Support / Resources below).
  • Stormwater permits and construction stormwater controls: construction site controls, SWPPP requirements, and MS4 program materials are available from the city and TCEQ; specific form names and fee schedules are not specified on the cited city pages.[2]

Common Violations

  • Illicit discharge to storm drains (illicit connections, dumping oil, concrete washout).
  • Unpermitted excavation or drainage alterations obstructing flow.
  • Failure to obtain sewer connection or building permits.
  • Violation of floodplain development restrictions.
If a discharge threatens public health, report immediately by phone to Public Works.

Action steps

  • Report spills or illicit discharges to Public Works via the stormwater complaint line or online form; include photos, location, and time.
  • Before starting construction near drainage, request permit information from Building Inspection and submit required erosion-control plans.
  • Pay any assessed fines or fees as directed on the violation notice or municipal court instruction to avoid escalation.
  • To appeal, follow the notice instructions and file within the code-specified period; if the code page lacks a deadline, contact municipal court for timing.

FAQ

Who enforces stormwater and flood-control rules in Wichita Falls?
Public Works/Stormwater and Code Enforcement administer inspections and enforcement; municipal court handles violations and appeals. See city program pages for contacts.[2]
What do I do if I see sewage or chemical discharge to a creek?
Report immediately to Public Works with location and photos; the city will investigate and coordinate with TCEQ if necessary.[2]
Are there specific fines for flooding or stormwater violations?
Monetary fine amounts are set in ordinance sections; the cited code page does not list a single consolidated fine schedule and specifics are not specified on the cited page.[1]

How-To

  1. Gather evidence: take dated photos, GPS coordinates, and note witnesses.
  2. Contact Public Works via the stormwater complaint form or phone; provide the gathered information.[2]
  3. Keep records of your report number and follow up if the issue is not addressed within a reasonable time.
  4. If fined or ordered to correct, review appeal instructions on the notice and consult municipal court or the city code for procedures.[1]

Key Takeaways

  • Wichita Falls enforces stormwater and flood rules through Public Works and municipal code provisions.
  • Permits are required for sewer connections and many drainage or construction activities; check Building Inspection.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Wichita Falls Code of Ordinances (municipal code)
  2. [2] City of Wichita Falls - Public Works / Stormwater program
  3. [3] Texas Commission on Environmental Quality - Stormwater information

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