All development within a floodplain requires a permit. Development includes, but is not limited to, all new construction, filling, grading and paving. Substantially damaged or improved structures, where the cost of repair (regardless of the cause of damage) or improvements to a structure, which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the building’s market value, also requires building permits and elevation certificates, and are held to the same standards as new construction. 

All new construction and substantially improved structures must be built at a minimum of one foot above the floodplain’s base flood elevation. This standard provides added protection to structures, but does not eliminate the flooding threat. Contact the Drainage Division for advice before constructing or placing anything in the floodplain to ensure proper regulations are followed.

Without these provisions, subsidized flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program would not be available to property owners in Oklahoma City. Any development in the floodplain without a permit is illegal and such activity should be reported to the Drainage Division.

City officials encourage all residents with property adjacent to or within a floodplain to buy flood insurance.

• Basic homeowner’s and renters insurance does not cover floods.
• Flood insurance required by a bank or loan company comes with a 30-day waiting period before the policy becomes effective. The policy must be renewed annually.

Because the City participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), federally subsidized flood insurance is available to City residents.

For more information about flood insurance, call your insurance agent or visit floodsmart.gov

The City also participates in the Community Rating System (CRS), a federal program that offers discounted flood insurance to communities who implement higher floodplain management standards. Homeowners within a floodplain may receive a discount on their current flood insurance premium renewals.

Flood protection assistance includes site specific flood and flood related data, data on historical flooding in the neighborhood and sources for financial assistance.

For additional flood information and materials contact the Drainage Division at (405) 297-2581.

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