Service
Floodplain Development Permit
When is this permit required?
You must apply before starting any work in a designated flood hazard area, including:
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Building or placing structures (including manufactured homes)
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Excavation, grading, or filling
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Altering shorelines or watercourses
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Utility installation
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Road or bridge construction
This applies to all development in flood hazard zones. “Development” means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations, or storage of equipment or materials located within the area of special flood hazard. (MSB 17.29.040)
How to Apply for Permit
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
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Application Fee: $100
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Site Plan showing horizontal dimensions and location of all development
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Elevation Certificate (EC) as necessary. An EC is always a condition on the permit to be turned in following the construction of a habitable structure.
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Photos or drawings showing vertical dimensions
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Hydrologic & Hydraulic Study (if working in a floodway or over water)
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Conditional Letter of Map Revision (if altering watercourse or flood elevation)
Step 2: Submit Online
Apply through the Borough’s online portal:
👉 Apply Online
Step 3: Acknowledgement & Review
You must sign a Floodplain Development Acknowledgement confirming you understand and will comply with MSB 17.29.100.
Failure to comply may result in enforcement under MSB 1.45.
The Borough’s Floodplain Administrator, Taunnie Boothby, will review your application.
👤 taunnie.boothby@matsugov.us
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a flood hazard area?
A: Areas identified by FEMA as having a 1% annual chance of flooding (also called “Special Flood Hazard Areas”).
Q: Can I build in a floodway?
A: Only if a certified engineering study shows your project won’t increase flood levels.
Q: What is a substantial improvement?
A: Any repair or upgrade that costs 50% or more of the structure’s market value.
Q: Do I need flood insurance?
A: Yes. Even compliant structures can flood. Visit https://www.floodsmart.gov/ to learn more.
Why Flood Insurance Matters
Even if your project meets all floodplain regulations, flooding can still happen. Whether you're in a flood zone or not, protect your property and investment by purchasing flood insurance.
👉 https://www.floodsmart.gov/