Lakewood, WA Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)

020(A). 070(B) sets specific construction standards. Subsection (B)(1) requires new construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure, including its basement, to elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above the base flood elevation. Subsection (B)(2) gives nonresidential structures a choice: elevate the same one foot above base flood elevation, or flood-proof the structure so it is watertight below that level, certified by a registered engineer or architect. Manufactured homes get their own rule under (B)(3): a permanent foundation with the lowest floor at least one foot above base flood elevation, or support on reinforced piers at least thirty-six inches above grade.

070(A)(6) still requires the Building Official to review permits for reasonable flood safety, using historical data and high-water marks, and warns that failing to elevate at least two feet above grade in these zones can raise flood insurance premiums. Critical facilities such as fire stations face a stricter three-foot freeboard requirement under (B)(5). 060, including a determination that denial would cause exceptional hardship, and any variance granted must include written notice of the required lowest floor elevation along with a warning that insurance costs track the reduced elevation chosen.