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HB 117

Relating to the authority of a county to regulate impervious cover in the unincorporated area of the county.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Erin Zwiener

Grants Texas counties authority to regulate impervious surface coverage in unincorporated areas to manage stormwater and development impacts.

Left pending in committee
#countygovernment--general(i0096) #countygovernment--landuse&zoning(i0098) #floods(s0327) #water--development(i0875)
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Bill Summary · HB 117

Legislative bill overview

HB 117 would grant Texas counties explicit authority to regulate impervious cover (hard surfaces like pavement and roofs) in unincorporated areas within their jurisdiction. Currently, counties lack clear statutory power to implement such regulations, which typically fall under municipal zoning authority in incorporated areas.

Why is this important

Impervious cover regulation affects stormwater management, flooding prevention, and groundwater recharge—critical concerns as Texas experiences increasing urbanization and extreme weather events. This bill addresses a regulatory gap that leaves unincorporated county areas without local tools to manage environmental and infrastructure impacts of development, potentially affecting property values, insurance costs, and flood risk for both residents and counties.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights concerns: Landowners may view impervious cover limits as restrictive regulations that reduce development potential and property value, particularly in rural or semi-rural unincorporated areas where such rules haven't traditionally applied
  • Rural vs. urban disparities: Counties may resist expanding their regulatory authority over unincorporated areas, and some rural stakeholders may oppose regulations they view as urban-style zoning imposed on countryside property
  • Implementation costs and clarity: Disputes may arise over whether counties have adequate resources, expertise, and clear standards to fairly enforce such regulations without creating inconsistent or burdensome requirements

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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