Washington County, AR Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

00 of the Washington County Code applies to all Special Flood Hazard Areas within the county's jurisdiction. It restricts or prohibits structures and uses that adversely impact health, safety or property during flooding, requires flood protection for structures built or substantially improved after damage occurs, and controls alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels and protective barriers. Regulated floodplain development includes structural construction, placement of manufactured homes, clearing, grading, mining, drilling, dredging, fill placement, excavation, watercourse alteration, drainage improvements, roadway and bridge construction, and individual water or sewer installations.

The county adopted by reference a standalone "Flood Damage Prevention Code for Washington County, Arkansas," dated May 16, 2008, made up of Article 1 (Definitions), Article 2 (Administration) and Article 3 (Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction); a copy is kept on file with the County Clerk and the County Planning Department for public inspection. The county also adopted FEMA's Flood Insurance Study and Flood Insurance Rate Map for Washington County and Incorporated Areas, both effective May 16, 2008, as the basis for identifying Special Flood Hazard Areas.

Where this ordinance conflicts with another ordinance, easement, covenant or deed restriction, the more stringent provision controls, and all requirements are treated as minimums construed in favor of the county. The ordinance has been amended several times since original passage in 1990.