What is floodplain management?

Floodplain management is the operation of a community program of preventive and corrective measures to reduce the risk of current and future flooding, resulting in a more resilient community. These measures take a variety of forms, are carried out by multiple stakeholders with a vested interest in responsible floodplain management, and generally include requirements for zoning, subdivision or building, building codes and special-purpose floodplain ordinances.

State and federal agencies, local communities and property owners have a role in reducing flood risk and helping communities become more resilient. From states providing strong model ordinances, to communities adopting and enforcing higher-standard building practices, to property owners elevating their homes, everyone can play a part in making communities safer and more resistant to flood disasters.

The NFIP provides flood insurance to property owners, renters and businesses, and having coverage helps speed up recovery when floodwaters recede. Homes and businesses in high-risk flood areas with mortgages from government-backed lenders are required to have flood insurance. Most homeowner or renter insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that can cover buildings, the contents in a building or both, so it is important to protect your most important financial assets - your home, your business and your possessions. Please visit https://www.fema.gov/flood-insurance for more information about flood insurance.

A floodplain development permit is required before construction or development begins within any FEMA-designated floodplain, or on any land that is below the base flood elevation. Please contact Missoula County Floodplain Administration for more information about floodplain development permitting by emailing floodplain@missoulacounty.us.