Maximize Your Space: Impervious Cover Limits in Austin
If you're planning to build a pool in the Austin area, it's important to be aware of impervious coverage restrictions set by the city. These restrictions apply to the footprint of all buildings within the city limits, including sidewalks, patios, driveways, and anything impervious to water seeping into the ground, and are set at a maximum of 45% of the total lot size. For instance, if you have 10,000 square feet of land, your building should not exceed 4,500 square feet, including any impervious structures.
Living in central Texas means eventually experiencing a serious flash flood – it's just a fact of nature that happens about once a decade. But we've found ways to lessen the impact. One way is by limiting surfaces that prevent water from soaking into the ground. We call it impervious cover, and it helps water flow naturally, avoiding places where it can cause damage. While it may seem inconvenient, it's vital for keeping us and our homes safe during heavy rains.
Some properties in Austin have been grandfathered in and exceed this limit, while others have received a variance for additions. When adding a pool to your property, impervious coverage is one of the first things your pool builder should inquire about before designing your pool. If your property is under 40% coverage, you're in a good situation. Anything over 40% becomes trickier to design around, but there are several ways to accomplish this.
Keep in mind that as you approach the 45% mark, you'll need to hire a survey company to calculate your new impervious coverage before and after construction to meet city requirements. Typically, you'll need a before calculation and survey to submit prior to construction, along with a new calculation after construction to be submitted before your final inspection is approved. It's worth talking to your survey company about a package deal for this service.
Removing existing walkways or structures can sometimes free up enough space to add an addition to your property. While wood decks are currently calculated at 50%, the rules are constantly changing and vary depending on which inspector you get. Other pervious materials such as crushed granite, pervious pavers, and pervious concrete are not typically recognized by the city of Austin. That's why great design becomes an even more important approach to the form and function of your pool in tight areas.
The good news is that the water area of your pool will not count as impervious coverage. Only the coping and decking around it will. So, if you have a small amount of space for your outdoor living area, the right design should still be able to give you the form and function you desire. Whether you're building in Austin or the surrounding area, it's important to be aware of these restrictions and work with an experienced pool builder who can help you navigate the process.
At Austin Dreamscapes, we take pride in our expertise in all aspects of pool design and construction, including impervious cover. We understand that navigating impervious cover restrictions in the Austin area can be tricky, but we're here to help. Our team is always available to answer any and all questions you may have about pool design and construction, and we'll work with you to create a customized solution that fits your needs and meets city requirements. Don't hesitate to reach out to us at (512) 883-POOL to discuss your pool-related questions and needs.