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1. What is a floodplain?

A floodplain is the area along a stream, river, or other waterway that is subject to occasional or periodic flooding. To define the limits of a floodplain or flood prone area, the City and Federal Government has designated areas that are subject to flooding with a one-percent or greater probability in any given year. These areas are also called the 100-year Floodplain.

2. How do I know if my property is in the floodplain?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has prepared maps at a scale of 1-inch to 800 feet (1” = 800’) delineating the floodplain boundaries. The City maintains versions of these maps at a scale of 1-inch to 200 feet (1” = 200’). Using these maps, the City’s Community Development staff can assist in determining whether if property is within the designated floodplain. This information can also be found in the 'Interactive Map' section of this website. Turn on the 'Parcels' and 'Floodplain' layers, click 'Update Map', and search for property.

3. Why is it necessary to know whether I am in the floodplain?

The most important reason is so that you will be aware of the risks and dangers of flooding and be prepared should flooding occur. Not only can floodwaters damage valuable property, but also many lives are lost each year from flooding in Texas. Beyond the public safety aspect, floodplain boundaries also are important for flood insurance purposes and floodplain regulations.

4. If I live in the floodplain, am I required to buy flood insurance?

Although it ia a wise investment for property owners in the floodplain, the City does not require the purchase of flood insurance. The City does participate in the National Flood Insurance Program to make insurance available to residents in the City. Under Federal law, the only people required to buy flood insurance are those with federally insured mortgages, such as FHA and VA. Mortgage companies which carry conventional mortgages may also require flood insurance. Contact your homeowners’ insurance carrier for information on flood insurance policies.

5. I’ve heard that flood insurance is expensive. Can the City help reduce the cost?

The City of Benbrook is entered into the Community Rating System in an effort to reduce flood insurance premiums for residents in Benbrook. In return for the City enforcing additional floodplain management regulations, flood insurance premiums in the Benbrook are reduced. Contact your insurance provider for information.

6. Which floodplain regulations affect my property?

Some floodplain regulations cover any activity within the floodplain, while others vary according to specific locations within the floodplain. All construction within the floodplain requires a permit from the City. Contact the Community Development department at 817-249-3000.

7. What do I need to obtain a building permit in the floodplain?

A completed Floodplain Modification and Development Permit Application, plus the applicable fee ($150.00 for Single Family and Community Facilities; $250.00 for Multiple Family, Commercial and Industrial) must be submitted to Permits and Inspections Department at City Hall. Along with the application, a plot plan and cross section of the proposed work is required. Depending on the complexity of the proposed project, additional information may be required, including a hydraulic engineering study, structural designs, or federal and state approvals.

8. What is required to build a new home in the floodplain?

The conditions of the floodplain require more stringent regulations. Consult with the Community Development department at 817-249-3000.

9. What are the penalties for violating floodplain regulations?

Any violation of the floodplain management regulations may be punishable by a fine of up to $500.00 per day for each day that the violation exists. In addition, illegal discharges into streams may be subject to State and Federal fines of up to $10,000.00 per day.

10. Where can I get more information about floodplains?

Some documents on floodplains, flood insurance, and floodplain management are available at the Benbrook Public Library at 1065 Mercedes. Additional information and assistance is available in the Community Development Department at City Hall, 911 Winscott Road, or call 817-249-3000. FEMA’s website at www.fema.gov offers more information. The website for the National Flood Insurance Program is www.FloodSmart.gov.