Kenai Peninsula Borough
Floodplain Management
Seward Mapped Flood Data Area
On March 24, 2009 the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly enacted ordinance 2009-09 (substitute) enacting the Seward Mapped Flood Data Area(SMFDA). This ordinance creates a mapped area based on the innundation of floodwaters from the 1986, 1995, and 2006 floods in the Seward area.
In the past, floodplain development standards have been based on FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Map, or FIRM. These maps were last revised in 1981 currently being revised by FEMA. As that process continues, the Borough has created a flood hazard area based on historical information.
For areas within the Seward/Bear Creek Flood Service Area, there are now two possible regulatory requirements. The Special Flood Hazard Area as shown on the FEMA FIRM maps has always had specific standards for development and required permitting.
Some areas which have not previously required construction to floodplain standards will be required to obtain a floodplain development permit from the KPB prior to the start of construction.
To determine if your property is subject to these regulations, go to our SMFDA data page.
View the Kenai Peninsula Borough's Ordinance 2009-09 (Substitute).