Build Responsibly

A permit will be required to build, grade, or fill in a floodplain. 

If you are unsure if you property is located in a floodplain, click onto "CITY MAPS" in the blue menu area to the right, then find your property on the floodplain map.

Get a permit before you build 

Always check with the Community Development Center at 503-543-7184 or visit us at 52610 NE 1st Street, Scappoose, before you build on or alter property in the floodplain. See links below for additional information.

If your property is within the Special Flood Hazard Area; then ANY improvements made are subject to applications and review under our Development Code, Chapter 17.84 Sensitive Lands -Flooding.

Build high, stay dry

Building above the base flood elevation is not only a requirement, but will protect your investment, facilitate financing, and reduce flood insurance.

Use flood-resistent materials and proper vents 

Examples include “Smart Vents,” Concrete, Cement Board, Metal Doors and Cabinets, etc.

Floodplain Regulations 

Floodplain Regulations 
To comply with FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the City administers floodplain regulations to reduce loss of life and property and to regulate activities that may obstruct or change the flow of water. Participation in NFIP allows residents and business owners to purchase federally backed flood insurance.

Floodplain Development Permit
A floodplain development permit is required for development activities in the 100-year floodplain. Floodplain development is defined as any man-made change to real property, including but not limited to, construction or placement of buildings or other structures, fencing, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavating, land clearing, drilling, or Continuous Storage Operations in the Special Flood Hazard Area (100-year floodplain). Please see Chapter 17.84 of the Scappoose Development Code

Useful FEMA Publications: