The City of Seattle has published a SEPA decision for the proposed permanent Floodplain Development Regulations. This is a critical step forward in addressing the city's obligations to both FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program and environmental stewardship, according to the press release.
As FEMA audited the city's floodplain regulations compliance, they unearthed several discrepancies necessitating amendments. The identified changes include, definitions to align with federal standards, adjustments to the regulatory floodway, and the inclusion of the coastal high hazard flood zone — with associated regulations. Seattle has thus far adapted through a series of short-term ordinances, the latest being Ordinance 126994, effective until mid-August.
These interim solutions kept Seattle property owners afloat, ensuring access to flood insurance and federally backed loans, while providing the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) with time to flesh out permanent regulations. The next round of changes is slated this month, proposed under Council Bill 120808.
The City has been treading water since the initial ordinance in July 2020, extending it multiple times. Yet, this latest declaration marks a turn towards more enduring protections — taking into consideration rising sea levels with proposals to increase elevation requirements for new construction from 2-feet, to 3-feet above base flood elevation. Moreover, it includes provisions for material and equipment storage, and standards for accessory structures, "The full range of regulatory changes that were part of the interim Floodplain Development Regulations adopted in July 2020 and the additional regulatory changes proposed for the permanent Floodplain Development Regulations," as detailed in the SEPA decision, as per the City of Seattle press release.
