Flood Zones: Auburn vs Redmond
How do flood zones rules compare between Auburn, WA and Redmond, WA?
Auburn and Redmond have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn regulates construction in FEMA-mapped Zone AE floodplains along the Green River and White River under ACC Title 15.68 and the Critical Areas Ordinance, requiring elevation and flood vents.
View full Auburn rules →Redmond, WA
King County
Redmond participates in the NFIP and regulates construction in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas along Bear Creek, Evans Creek, and the Sammamish River. Critical areas code adds 1-2 ft freeboard.
View full Redmond rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Redmond |
|---|---|---|
| Code | ACC 15.68 + ACC 16 | - |
| Elevation | 1 foot above BFE | - |
| Main Flood Zone | Green River Zone AE | - |
| Vents | Required below BFE | - |
| Program | FEMA NFIP | NFIP participant |
| Main floodplains | - | Bear Creek and Sammamish River |
| Freeboard | - | 1-2 ft above BFE |
| Substantial improvement | - | 50% rule applies |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
How do I find out if my Auburn home is in a flood zone?
Use FEMA's Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov with your address, or call Auburn Community Development at (253) 931-3090 for a floodplain determination on your parcel.
Is flood insurance required near the Green River?
Federally backed mortgages on homes in Zones A and AE along the Green River require NFIP flood insurance. Homes just outside the mapped floodplain can still purchase coverage and often at lower rates.
Redmond FAQ
Is my Redmond property in a flood zone?
Properties along the Sammamish River, Bear Creek, and Evans Creek may be in a FEMA SFHA; check the FIRM or call Redmond Planning.
Do I need flood insurance in Redmond?
Mortgage lenders require it for any federally backed loan on property inside a Special Flood Hazard Area; outside the SFHA it is optional.
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