FEMA flood zone rules in Tacoma, WA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Tacoma has FEMA-mapped flood zones, particularly along the Puyallup River and its tributaries. Development in flood hazard areas requires permits and must comply with NFIP requirements. Environmentally sensitive areas including floodplains must be identified on all development plans.
Tacoma participates in FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program. The Puyallup River valley and Hylebos Creek areas contain mapped floodplains. All development in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation above the base flood elevation. The city requires identification of all environmentally sensitive areas (wetlands, streams, flood plains, steep slopes) on development plans. Stormwater management per the city's Stormwater Management Manual is required for all development affecting impervious surfaces.
Development in flood zones without permits voids flood insurance eligibility. Non-compliant structures may need elevation or removal. Fines apply for unauthorized development.
Tacoma, WA
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Tacoma, WA
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Tacoma, WA
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Tacoma, WA
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Tacoma, WA
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in this county.
See how other cities in this county handle flood zones.
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