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Parish reviews draft drainage ordinances to set parish standards and require runoff analyses for larger developments
Summary
Staff presented draft ordinances to regulate alterations to drainage patterns and require pre/post-development runoff analysis and detention for larger development projects; jurors asked for two weeks to review the draft and the measure will be refined to align with state law and local thresholds.
DeSoto Parish staff presented a draft ordinance to regulate alterations to natural drainage, require uniform storm‑drain design standards and establish a process to analyze pre‑development and post‑development runoff for larger projects.
The presenter said the parish currently defers to state law but lacks numeric standards; the proposed ordinance would add thresholds requiring professional‑engineer analysis and detention requirements for larger developments and oil well pads while providing exceptions or variances for small lots (generally 1 acre or less). Jurors asked about fees and administration: staff said fees have not been set and larger projects may require outside review to offset consultant costs.
Jurors expressed concern about local drainage problems such as San Patricio Bayou and roads that go under water; staff said the ordinance is intended to prevent development from increasing downstream flooding and would supplement — not contradict — state law. The committee voted to give jurors two weeks to read the draft and return with comments.
The measure remains in review; staff will return with proposed fee schedules and administrative guidance for implementation.
