Why Drainage Studies Are Essential in Florida

Juan Vasquez
Dec 5, 2025
2 min read

Florida is one of the U.S. states with the highest flood risk. The combination of tropical storms, low-absorption soils, coastal zones, and rapid urban growth makes water management a critical factor in any construction project.

Without a proper Drainage Study, a project may:

Be rejected by the county
Cause erosion and structural damage
Flood neighboring properties
Lead to lawsuits
Damage foundations, driveways, and patios
Be affected by FEMA Flood Zones

In this blog, you will learn in depth what a Drainage Study is, when you need one, and how it protects your investment.

1. What Is a Drainage Study?

It is a technical evaluation performed by a civil engineer that analyzes:

How rainwater flows across your property
Where the water currently drains
The volume of water the site must handle
External runoff sources affecting your lot
What design will prevent flooding

A Drainage Study includes:

Topography
Hydraulic modeling
Evapotranspiration
Soil type analysis
Impact on neighboring properties
Compliance with county and FEMA regulations

2. When Is It Required by the County or City?

Most common situations:

Construction in flood zones (FEMA AE, VE)
New subdivisions
New driveways
New patios, pools, or terraces
Home additions
Changes in ground elevation
Excess impervious area

3. Types of Drainage the Engineer Must Consider

3.1 Surface Drainage

Water runs over the ground surface.

Examples: yards, driveways, streets.

3.2 Subsurface Storm Drainage

Use of:

French drains
Catch basins
Underground pipes

3.3 Retention or Detention Drainage

Pits or ponds designed to temporarily hold water.

Type	Function	Typical Projects
Retention Pond	Holds water and allows it to infiltrate	Site developments
Detention Pond	Temporarily stores and releases water	Residential & commercial
Swales	Channel surface water	Residential lots