Franklin County, NC Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

The Unified Development Code (Appendix A) devotes Article 9.2, Flood Damage Prevention, to development in flood-prone parts of unincorporated Franklin County. Under UDC § 9.2.3(C), a Floodplain Development Permit is required prior to the commencement of any development activity within a Special Flood Hazard Area, areas identified from the FIS for Franklin County dated January 16, 2004 and its DFIRM panels. The Franklin County Planning Director or designee serves as Floodplain Administrator under § 9.2.4(A) and reviews applications, issues permits, inspects work in progress, and can issue stop-work orders or revoke permits for departures from approved plans.

Applicants must submit a certified plot plan showing the Special Flood Hazard Area boundary, flood zone designation, floodway boundary, base flood elevation, and proposed elevation or floodproofing of the structure and its utilities, plus a foundation plan, under § 9.2.4(B). A Finished Construction Elevation Certificate, FEMA Form 086-0-33, is required after construction and before a Certificate of Compliance or Occupancy is issued. Development within a floodway or non-encroachment area that would increase flood levels is prohibited absent a variance from the Board of Adjustment, and variances require a written report addressing eleven factors, including danger to life and property and availability of alternative locations.

Violating the ordinance, including breaching conditions attached to a variance, is a Class 1 misdemeanor under NC G.S. § 143-215.58, punishable by a fine of not more than $100.00 or imprisonment of not more than 30 days, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.