Flood Control Zone District

Building in a Floodplain

Building in a Floodplain

In February 1981, Chelan County joined the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Joining NFIP means residents are able to purchase flood insurance, a requirement of mortgages or home equity loans for property located within the floodplain. Residents are also able to buy, sell and build on property within the floodplain.

In addition, by joining NFIP, the county became eligible to receive disaster assistance from FEMA after a presidentially declared disaster. Since 1972, the county has had 26 Presidential Disaster Declarations related to floods, severe storms and wildfires, which can cause post-fire flooding.

As an NFIP member, the county also agreed to enforce federal regulations concerning development within a special flood hazard area shown on FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps. The areas are referred to as the 100-year floodplain.

Local jurisdictions such as Chelan County must issue permits for all development in its flood-prone areas. This ensures that development is regulated so property damage is limited and property owners do not adversely impact other property owners by their actions. Chelan County Code Chapter 3.20 regulates the use and development of property within flood hazard areas in the unincorporated areas.

A Floodplain Development Permit is required prior to beginning any development within the 100-year flood. Development includes any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, digging, grading, filling, paving, drilling, mining, storing equipment or materials, or construction.

Common activities that may require a permit include:

The construction or addition of small storage sheds

Excavation or infill

Construction of some fences

Enclosing an open-sided structure

Cutting down trees to make room for future development

Landscaping activities, such as building of retaining walls or raised beds

Installation of propane tanks

Prior to beginning any development, landowners must apply for a Floodplain Development Permit from Chelan County Community Development.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Floodplain Development Permit

Posted: 03/03/2016 09:19 AM
Last Updated: 07/12/2019 04:34 PM

Chelan County Calendar

Upcoming events and schedules at the county!

  • 05
    Jun 2024
    09:00 AM - 10:00 AM

    Hearing Examiner - June 5, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    By Zoom Video Conference or in person call 509-667-6518
  • 05
    Jun 2024
    11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

    Chelan County Civil Service Commission

    Posted by: Human Resources

    The Chelan County Civil Service Commission will be meeting on June 5, 2024.

    Chelan County Commissioners Office, ES Conference Room.
  • 22
    May 2024
    06:30 PM - 08:00 PM

    Planning Commission - May 22, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    400 Douglas Street