By Montgomery Planning staff

Flooding is a growing threat to Montgomery County due to severe storms caused by climate change. Whether it’s damaging homes, disrupting traffic, or harming local ecosystems, the impacts of flooding are real and intensifying.

As the agency responsible for land use and planning for the future, we’re uniquely positioned to help reduce flood risks and build a more resilient county. Our approach is rooted in smart growth, environmental stewardship, and interagency collaboration.

Understanding the problem

Flooding happens when rainfall overwhelms the land’s ability to absorb water and the capacity of natural and built drainage systems like streams, wetlands, and storm drains. In Montgomery County, many neighborhoods were built before modern stormwater standards existed, leaving them more vulnerable to flooding today. As storms become more intense and unpredictable, we recognize the urgent need to reduce vulnerabilities not just in future development, but existing communities as well.

Montgomery Planning’s role in reducing flood risk

Montgomery Planning’s role in in environmental challenges like flooding starts with identifying potential hazards and threats through our master plans, as well as potential solutions. Master planning, zoning, and development review applications directly influence how water moves through our communities and how well those communities can withstand severe storms.

We are committed to identifying land use strategies that make a real difference. By reviewing new development projects, we ensure site designs work with nature to absorb, slow runoff and are positively benefiting the community. Features like green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavement can make subtle but large impacts on the flow of water and the environment.

Permeable pavement can be an effective solution to manage rainfall.

Through the work of Montgomery Planning’s Environment & Climate Division, we prioritize the protection and restoration of natural systems such as forests, wetlands, and floodplains, which serve as vital buffers during heavy rains. Our master planning process promotes forward-thinking environmental solutions that guide long-term growth while keeping flood resilience front and center.

We believe new, smart development can be an important part of the solution, especially where inadequate infrastructure exists. Contrary to the perception that growth worsens flooding, modern development in Montgomery County is held to higher environmental standards than ever before. New projects must incorporate green infrastructure, manage stormwater on-site, and reduce runoff and often improve conditions not just for the new buildings, but for surrounding neighborhoods as well. When done right, development can upgrade outdated systems, restore natural drainage patterns, and build resilience into the fabric of our communities.

Sustainability features at M-NCPPC’s Wheaton Headquarters

When facing a growing problem like this, interagency coordination is a powerful tool. Our work is part of a broader countywide effort to reduce flood risks, working closely with partners like the Department of Permitting Services (DPS), the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) and others to identify flood-prone areas and align policies that strengthen infrastructure and improve stormwater management.

At Montgomery Planning, we’re committed to using every tool to help the county grow smarter, safer, and more sustainably. Flooding may be a complex challenge, but with thoughtful land use and strong partnerships, we can build a future that’s ready for whatever the weather brings.

Learn more about our approach and the strategies we’re using and the great work our Environmental and Climate Division is doing to grow a greener Montgomery County.