Flood Control Zone District

Building in a Floodplain

Building in a Floodplain

Are you building in the floodplain?

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

 

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

 

Posted: 03/03/2016 09:19 AM
Last Updated: 04/08/2026 09:11 AM

Chelan County Calendar

Upcoming events and schedules at the county!

  • 12
    Sep 2026
    10:00 AM - 03:00 PM

    Cashmere Airport Day

    Posted by: Board Of County Commissioners

    Come for the food, the fun and the airplanes! A casual day to explore your local county airport.

    Cashmere Airport
  • 10
    Sep 2026
    08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

    Chelan County Fair 2026

    Posted by: Chelan County Expo Center

    The Chelan County Fair exists to provide a family event reflecting the past, showcasing current accomplishments and looking to the future of the county's best resources - its youth, agriculture and communities.

    Chelan County Expo Center
  • 05
    Sep 2026
    09:00 AM - 04:00 PM

    Monthly Drop-Off Saturday - Sept. 5, 2026

    Posted by: Solid Waste Management

    Drop-Off Saturday at the Moderate Risk Waste Facility is Sept. 5

    Moderate Risk Waste Facility