Flood Zones: Redmond vs Seattle
How do flood zones rules compare between Redmond, WA and Seattle, WA?
Redmond and Seattle have similar restriction levels.
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 →Seattle, WA
King County
Seattle participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and regulates construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas under SMC Chapters 25.06 and 25.09, requiring elevated structures and flood-resistant building standards.
View full Seattle rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Redmond | Seattle |
|---|---|---|
| Program | NFIP participant | - |
| Main floodplains | Bear Creek and Sammamish River | - |
| Freeboard | 1-2 ft above BFE | - |
| Substantial improvement | 50% rule applies | - |
| Freeboard Requirement | - | Lowest floor at least 1 foot above Base Flood Elevation |
| Key Flood Areas | - | Duwamish River valley, Thornton Creek, Longfellow Creek corridors |
| Federal Program | - | National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) |
| Critical Areas Code | - | SMC 25.09 – Environmentally Critical Areas |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Seattle FAQ
How do I find out if my Seattle property is in a flood zone?
You can check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center online using your address, or contact SDCI for a flood zone determination. The city's GIS mapping tools also show flood hazard areas. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zone A or AE) are required to carry flood insurance if they have a federally backed mortgage.
Does Seattle offer flood insurance discounts?
Yes, Seattle participates in FEMA's Community Rating System (CRS), which recognizes the city's floodplain management efforts beyond minimum federal requirements. This participation provides flood insurance premium discounts for properties in participating communities.
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