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Floodplain Management

A floodplain development permit must be obtained prior to the development of any property (farm or non-farm) located with Zone "A" of the Flood Insurance Rate Map for Tama County.

How to Apply for a Floodplain Development Permit

The Tama County Planning and Zoning office reviews applications as they are submitted.  Applications do not require a hearing by the Planning and Zoning Commission. 

The Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) may be viewed at the Planning and Zoning Office or are available from the FEMA Map Service Center.

What is Development?

Development includes any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or any other structures, mining, filling, grading, paving, excavating or drilling operations.

Why they are required?

  • to minimize flood losses and restrict uses that are hazards to safety or property
  • to protect individuals from buying land unsuitable for its intended purpose due to flood potential
  • to ensure eligibility for flood insurance (based on Federal guidelines)

Required Information for Floodplain Development Application

  • indication of the use and occupancy for which the proposed work is intended
  • the legal description of the property
  • elevation of the 100-year flood established by a registered land surveyor
  • elevation of the lowest floor of the building
  • an estimate of the cost of improvement

FEMA Flood Insurance Information

A lengthy manual with "Answers to Questions about the National Flood Insurance Program" is also available.

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