Due to recent interim regulations implementing state legislation (effective July 2025) and pending changes to the Design Review program and the local codes implementing State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) requirements, SDCI's Tips, Director's Rules, and other guidance documents may not reflect the most current regulations or requirements. To ensure accuracy and applicability to specific code questions or permit applications, please contact us through our Send Us a Question website.

Tips

Summary: Seattle’s Floodplain Development Ordinance (FDO) Seattle Municipal Code Chapter 25.06 imposes standards and restrictions for construction and development in designated special flood hazard areas in the city. The areas affected by the regulations are located within the designated 100-year floodplain along Thornton, Pipers and Longfellow Creeks, in the South Park area along the Duwamish Waterway, and along the coastline of Puget Sound. These special flood hazard areas are identified by the letters A or V on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The flood regulations create permit requirements for new construction that applicants having property located in the designated areas should be familiar with.

Date Revised: 04/05/2022

See all Tips