Can I build in the flood plain?

Yes, new construction is permitted in the floodplain in accordance with the Village of Winnetka’s Flood Hazard Protection Ordinance, Sections 15.68.050.G and 15.68.080.  

Construction of a new home or structure with a basement may be permitted in the floodplain if a Letter of Map Revision – Fill (LOMR-F) is first obtained from FEMA. The LOMR-F can be obtained if engineered fill has been placed and compacted on the site to create a clay building pad for the home.  All work must be done in accordance with the Village’s Flood Hazard Protection Ordinance.  A LOMR-F, removes that portion of the property that was filled from the floodplain, thereby allowing a home to be constructed with an engineered basement. Otherwise, if site constraints do not allow for a LOMR-F, a home with a floodable crawlspace (no basement) may be constructed.  The details of the design requirements are outlined in Section 15.68.050.G and 15.68.080 of the Flood Hazard Protection Ordinance.

Compensatory storage must be provided to offset any fill that is placed in the floodplain, under any circumstance.  Compensatory storage must equal a minimum of 1.1 x Fill volume.

Show All Answers

1. What is the 100-year flood plain?
2. What regulations must be followed for construction within and adjacent to the flood plain?
3. What is the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?
4. What is the Flood Protection Elevation (FPE)?
5. When is my house considered in the flood plain?
6. My property was never in the flood plain before, why is it in the flood plain now?
7. When do I need to buy flood insurance?
8. Can I build in the flood plain?
9. Are there any restrictions for construction for homes adjacent to the 100-year flood plain?
10. What are the criteria for being able to construct a new home with a basement in the 100-year flood plain?
11. Can I make improvements to my existing home in the flood plain?
12. What is compensatory storage?
13. How can I find out if my property is located within the flood plain?