Floodplain Management

The City of Branson participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Therefore, Branson has adopted and is enforcing the floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood damage. In exchange, the NFIP makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in Branson.

Within participating communities, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is responsible for determining the extent to which flooding might threaten any given area of land. Flooding threat classifications run from low to high risk, with high risk areas categorized as "Special Flood Hazard Areas" (SFHAs).

Building in the Floodplain

No development within any numbered or unnumbered A zone or AE zones on the current FIRM maps dated March 15, 2012 may be initiated until an applicant obtains a Floodplain Development Permit (PDF) (FDP) and a Building Permit prior to any construction activity. Staff is available to answer questions about completing your Floodplain Development Permit Application at 417-337-8549.

Development is defined as "any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures, levees, levee systems, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations, or storage of equipment or materials."

For new structures and major additions to existing structures located in identified flood hazard areas, an Elevation Certificates, Floodplain Development Permit Application (PDF), and Building Permit Application must be submitted to the City through the Citizenserve Portal and approved before any construction activity can begin.

Is Flood Insurance Required by Law?

In order to obtain secured financing to buy, build, or improve structures located in SFHAs, owners are required to purchase flood insurance. To find out if you are in or near a Special Flood Hazard Area call 417-337-8549 or visit the Planning and Development Department at Branson City Hall, 110 W Maddux St., Ste. 215.

Useful Links - Questions

• FEMA’s Homeowners: Frequently Asked Questions
• Floodplain FAQ’s (PDF)
• Frequently Asked Questions for FEMA Funded Residential Property Voluntary Flood Buyouts (PDF)

Useful Links - Maps

• FEMA Flood Map Service Center

Useful Links - Other

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
• Missouri State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA)