FEMA flood zone rules in Yakima County, WA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Yakima County enforces floodplain rules along the Yakima and Naches rivers. In FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas, new homes must be elevated above base flood elevation, and building in the floodway is barred.
Yakima County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, and its flood hazard regulations sit within Title 16C. Properties in FEMA-mapped Special Flood Hazard Areas along the Yakima, Naches, and tributary floodplains must meet minimum construction standards: new and substantially improved structures must have their lowest floor elevated above base flood elevation, and a floodplain development permit is required for building, fill, or grading. Washington's Flood Control Zone Act, RCW 86.16, directs the Department of Ecology to review local floodplain ordinances. Residential construction in the designated floodway is prohibited, and flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages in these zones.
Building below base flood elevation or placing fill or structures in the floodway without a floodplain development permit violates county rules and NFIP standards, forcing corrective elevation, removal, and loss of insurance eligibility.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County may require hosts to carry liability insurance for short-term rental properties. Minimum coverage amounts vary by jurisdiction.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County limits the number of guests allowed in short-term rental properties. Occupancy caps are typically based on bedroom count or square footage to p...
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires replacement planting when permitted trees are removed. Replacement ratios and species specifications ensure canopy preservation.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County designates heritage or landmark trees based on size, age, or species. Removal or damage to heritage trees carries significant penalties.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County requires permits to remove trees above a certain size on private property. Protected species and street trees have additional restrictions.
Yakima County, WA
Yakima County places few limits on residential holiday decorations. No permit is required to light up your own home. Displays should not block sidewalks or i...
See how Yakima County's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.