Homes, businesses and even entire communities have been built in floodplain areas. The development of these floodplains has resulted in continual and often severe social and economical loss.
Clark County has adopted land use regulations (click on Compile Chapter), construction standards, and a permit system to regulate development in flood hazard areas and minimize flood impacts.
Floodplain permits are required for most activities within floodplains, such as grading, cut and fill, installation of riprap and other bank stabilization techniques. A floodplain inquiry is used to determine Base Flood Elevations, drainage, sewer, and construction issues.
To minimize damage to structures during flood events, the county requires all new construction and substantial improvements in the floodplain, be adequately flood-proofed, elevated or otherwise protected from flood damage.
Elevation Certificates, by a Washington State Land Surveyor, are required to verify that the lowest floor, including the basement and utilities, are elevated above the Base Flood Elevation depending on your FIRM Zone. Find out what your FIRM Zone is here.
These standards apply to all development in the floodplain including new structrues and substantial improvements to existing structures.
Check the county's building codes for more information.
Keeping drainage systems clear is important
Maintaining the flow capacity in streams that cross county properties requires cooperation and assistance to prevent flooding and bank erosion.
Do not dump or throw anything into ditches or streams. Trash and vegetation dumped into a stream degrades water quality of both the stream itself and its receiving waters, and every piece of trash contributes to flooding. Report any observations of dumping debris or other objects into streams, drainageways, or rivers to Code Enforcement at (360) 397-2375 ext. 4184.
Remove debris, trash, loose branches and vegetation. Keep banks clear of brush and debris to help maintain an unobstructed flow of water in stream channels. Do not remove vegetation that is actively growing on a stream bank. Before removing streamside vegetation, contact Development Services at (360) 397-2375 ext. 4598. Report vegetation or tree clearing on stream banks to Code Enforcement at (360) 397-2375 ext. 4931.
Get more information
Clark County Community Development offers several ways to access information about your property and our current regulations.
Online. Use these instructions to find out about your property. Regulations related to floodplains can be found here (click on Compile Chapter).
Visit us in person. You can speak with a trained permit technician or pick up additional information at our downtown Permit Center located at 1300 Franklin St., Vancouver or at our Battle Ground location at 1808 SW 9th Ave. Bldg C, Suite 101. Battle Ground.
Give us a call. Contact Permit Services at (360) 397-2375 for information and prior to undertaking any activity within the floodplain. Report violations to Code Enforcement at (360) 397-2375 ext. 4184.
