Floodplain Department
Goal
To implement and enforce development permits for buildings, Mobile Homes or other structures, filling, grading, paving etc… in the floodplain areas of Craighead County and following cities Bay, Black Oak, Bono, Brookland, Caraway, Cash and Lake City so the County and listed cities can be in compliance with the FEMA program.
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How do I know if I’m in a flood zone?
If you are unsure you can contact the Floodplain Department at 870-933-7725 or you can visit FEMA’S map store at www.fema.gov
I have lived here forever and have never been flooded. Why do I need flood insurance?
The flood hazards shown on NFIP maps are based on the best information available at the time the maps were prepared. In many areas, hydraulic and hydrologic studies were conducted to reflect the long-term projection of flood risk. The fact that a flood hasn’t occurred within memory doesn’t mean one won’t happen soon.
My bank said I’m in the floodplain and have to buy insurance. I don’t believe it. What can I do?
If a lending institution is federally regulated or making federally backed loans, it must review the NFIP maps to determine if the building is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area. The SFHA is the area that is expected to be inundated by a 1% annual chance flood. If the bank makes such a determination, it must require the borrower to purchase flood insurance.
If you disagree with the lending institution’s determination, you may request that FEMA review the lender’s determination. FEMA will then review the information that the lending institution used, and issue a letter that states whether they agree with the determination. Your request must be postmarked no later than 45 days after the lending institution notifies you of the flood insurance requirement and the submittal must be complete.
Does homeowners insurance policies cover flooding?
No, homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. National Flood Insurance protects your most valuable assets-your home and belongings.
How Can I Obtain a Development Permit?
The Floodplain Office is located in the Craighead County Courthouse Annex, 511 Union Room 010 Jonesboro, AR. You will receive an application for a Development Permit ($25.00 Fee). You must fill out the application and return it along with plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the location and dimensions, including the placement of Manufactured Homes, and an Elevation Certificate completed by an engineer or surveyor. When the Floodplain Manager has received all the forms requested he/she will determine if the development can take place and issue a Development Permit.
Permits: Always check with the Craighead County Floodplain Office before you build on, alter, re-grade, or place fill on your property. A permit may be needed to ensure projects do not cause problems on other properties.
There is a 30-day waiting period before national flood insurance program coverage takes effect. Contact your insurance agent for more information on rates and coverage.
| Flood Safety |
| Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. If you walk in standing water, use a pole or stick to ensure that the ground is still there. |
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Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out. |
| Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two-flood killer after drowning is electrocution. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to the Power Company or City emergency management office. |
| Have your electricity turned off by the Power Company. Some appliances, such as television sets, keep electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried. |
| Look out for animals, especially snakes. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over and scare away small animals. |
| Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery. |
| Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated. |
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Bridget Haines, CFM Coordinator
511 Union Rm 010
Jonesboro, Ar 72401 |
Office: 870-933-7725
Fax: 870-933-4504
Mobile: 870-926-7189 |
