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!

  • 18
    Oct 2024
    08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

    Ballots will be mailed to voters

    Posted by: Chelan County Elections

    Ballots will be mailed to voters

  • 18
    Oct 2024
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    Voting Center is open for 18 days in Election's Office

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    Voting Center is open for 18 days in Election's Office

  • 18
    Oct 2024
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    Wenatchee Kennel Club Dog Show

    Posted by: Chelan County Expo Center

    Wenatchee Kennel Club Dog Show

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    Oct 2024
    01:00 PM - 02:00 PM

    Hearing Examiner - October 16, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    By Zoom Video Conference or in person
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    Oct 2024
    08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

    Local Voters Pamphlet mailed to voters

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    Local Voters' Pamphlet mailed to voters.