Floodplain

Recent Update to the Brazos County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance

On August 9, 2022 the Brazos County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance was updated to specify that only a property owner or their legal representative is able to apply for a Brazos County Floodplain Development permit. Please note the Public Memo details here.

Residential Construction

For all development in unincorporated Brazos County a property owner or their legal representative must Request a Certificate of Compliance to Brazos County Floodplain Regulations.

It is the property owner's responsibility to make sure that the construction has been approved. It is to the homeowner's benefit as it defines whether or not the property is in the floodplain. If you would like more information or have questions, make an appointment with the Floodplain Permit Specialist please call (979) 822-2127 or contact Shantell Collins.

Flood Prevention Ordinance

In January of 1987, the Commissioners' Court of Brazos County adopted a Flood Prevention Ordinance (commonly referred to as the Floodplain Permit Ordinance) in an effort to provide information on the availability of flood insurance to owners of primary residential or commercial structures (including manufactured homes) for those who request it. In order to provide the availability of flood insurance for any structure we have to document all structures. In the case of additions or remodeling, when the costs are more than 50% of the value of the structure, a permit must also be issued. Failure to obtain this permit could result in "red tagging" of the construction site resulting in a stoppage of construction with the possibility of a class "c" misdemeanor.

Builders should inform owners that they need to get the permit. 

Attention

Brazos County would like all citizens to feel informed; find out if your property is in the FEMA designated floodplain. Look up your property with the FEMA Map Service Center Search By Address Tool.

Floodplain Management

A floodplain is a geographic area subject to flooding; land adjacent to a waterway necessary to contain a flood. Floodplains can be associated with rivers, lakes, streams, channels, even small creeks that are normally dry most of the year. Floodplain regulations are enforced to protect public safety and health. In addition, they encourage sound engineering practices and efficient floodplain management techniques. All construction in Brazos County must adhere to federal floodplain regulations. Regulations are established by the Federal Government and implemented by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The Brazos County Road and Bridge Department is responsible for examining construction for compliance with local and federal regulations; therefore, all construction must be approved by the Brazos County Engineering Department by acquiring a permit before construction begins. Failure to do so will result in fines and halting of construction.

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