Floodplain Development Permit Needs
A floodplain development permit is required before any construction or development of any type begins in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Communities are responsible for ensuring all proposed developments attain the required documentation and approvals as mandated by local, state, and federal law. Furthermore, a community must develop floodplain management ordinances to ensure the proper building and maintenance once permits are approved. Failure to comply with proper documentation can impact National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) eligibility.
Texas Floodplain Management – Do I Need a Permit?
The Texas Floodplain Management Association provides general guidelines to help communities understand where to start when considering expansion, development, or new structure creation.
A floodplain development permit must be obtained for almost any work done in a designated area. Permits are required for:
- New construction (permanent and temporary)
- Additions or improvements to existing structures
- Repairs to areas with significant damage
- Building placement
- Road, bridge, and culvert placement
- Any type of grading, mining, dredging, or drilling activity
- Alteration of water channels or other natural structures
In summary, most man-made changes within a floodplain require a permit.
How Do You Get A Floodplain Development Permit?
Permit application processes vary among jurisdictions. Depending on the proposed project, a FEMA Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) or Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) may be required. These documents explain any changes to floodplains, or the potential impact of a project including compliance with NFIP standards.
No project is too small. If you are unsure, contact your local permit office to see if documentation and permit approval is required for your specific project.
Permit Reviews
Once all appropriate documentation is submitted, permit applications go through a rigorous approval process. It is important to address potential review questions when preparing an application.
Some review questions to consider when applying for a floodplain development permit are:
- Is the proposed project location in a mapped floodplain?
- Have other agencies successfully received permits for previous projects?
- Does the site show base flood elevations and delineation?
- Are new structures elevated properly with appropriate foundations?
With overlapping jurisdiction and required coordination among various agencies, your best move when considering any type of development in a floodplain is to consult with a water resource infrastructure management expert like OEI.
OEI Documentation Expertise
OEI’s extensive experience with water resources and environmental design is showcased by our exceptional record of success. We are familiar with the complicated processes of obtaining proper documentation and permits, including the preparation of floodplain development permit applications.
Our attention to detail and understanding of the most complex technical requirements make us a community’s best choice when considering floodplain development.
Are you a community planner or government official? Contact us today to begin the process of ensuring the proper development of your infrastructure.