FEMA flood zone rules in Des Moines, IA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Des Moines has significant flood risk areas along the Des Moines and Raccoon Rivers. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). A Floodplain Development Permit is required for any construction or development in mapped flood hazard areas.
Des Moines has substantial flood hazard areas along the Des Moines River, Raccoon River, and their tributaries. The city experienced devastating floods in 1993 and 2008 that shaped current flood management policies. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) identify Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) with a 1% annual chance of flooding (100-year floodplain). The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, making flood insurance available to all property owners. Any development in the SFHA — including construction, fill, grading, or substantial improvement — requires a Floodplain Development Permit from the Permit and Development Center in addition to a building permit. New construction in the floodplain must have the lowest floor elevated at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Substantial improvements to existing structures (more than 50% of market value) must also be brought into compliance. The city operates a Flood Information Center to help residents understand their flood risk.
Building in the floodplain without a permit is a serious violation. Fines and required remediation. Structures may be required to be elevated or removed. NFIP compliance is required for community participation.
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