Definition: Floodplain

The floodplain is an area of low-lying ground next to a stream or river that's subject to flooding. 

Visit the City of Raleigh's website to see if your property is in the floodplain. 

Walnut Creek

Question title

Do you live in or near the floodplain?

Yes
56%
No
37%
Don't know
7%
Closed to responses | 329 Responses

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On the map below, please use your computer mouse to drag the circle to the area where you live.

(Use the plus (+) or minus (-) buttons to zoom in/out to view where you live. Or type in your address in the search tool)

Current floodplain regulations are provided in the City's Unified Development Ordinance. You can find this information on the City of Raleigh's website. 

Question title

Are you familiar with the City's current floodplain regulations?

Somewhat familiar
57%
Not familiar
30%
Very familiar
13%
Don't know
2%
Closed to responses | 319 Responses

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Please select the statement that most reflects your thoughts on how the City of Raleigh currently regulates development in the floodplain?

The City doesn't restrict development enough
50%
I don't have an opinion on how the City regulates development in the floodplain
18%
The City restricts development too much
17%
The City regulates development just enough
15%
Closed to responses | 305 Responses

Proposed Regulations

  • Exempt: Properties in the floodplain that are 0.5 acres or less or already developed. 
  • Proposed regulations would extend development restrictions for new development to the entire floodplain.
  • This means, you would no longer be able to build structures in the floodplain. Roads being developed would also need to provide dry-access during a major rainstorm.  
  • These changes would impact vacant lots in the floodplain.

Why We Want to Make Changes

Changes in regulation would reduce development in the floodplain. This would: 
 

  1. Allow water to flow more naturally near streambanks; 
  2. Benefit the quality of streams and rivers; 
  3. Protect wildlife habitat; and,
  4. Protect people and their property from hazardous flooding.

Question title

Would you support the proposed recommendations to change floodplain regulations?

Yes
60%
Maybe
20%
No
20%
Closed to responses | 292 Responses

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If you have property in the floodplain, please select the statements that apply most to you. (Select all that apply)

*Note: All actions listed below are voluntary.

I don't have property in the floodplain
43%
I would not allow the City of Raleigh to purchase or have an easement on my property
25%
I would consider allowing the City of Raleigh to purchase my property and return the area to green space
17%
I would consider dedicating a conservation easement for my property to the City of Raleigh
11%
Other
10%
I would consider allowing the City of Raleigh to purchase my vacant lot
7%
Closed to responses | 230 Responses

Question title

If you live in the floodplain, what safety precautions do you take to protect you and your property? (Select all that apply)

I don't have property in the floodplain
47%
I have flood insurance
29%
I receive flood warning notifications online or via text
19%
I have a safety plan in place for major rainstorms
14%
I raised the structure on my property
12%
Other
11%
I flood proof my home
8%
I call 911 in an emergency
5%
Closed to responses | 219 Responses

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If you would like the City of Raleigh to contact you regarding your responses, please provide your name and contact information below. (Optional)

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If you have additional thoughts or ideas, please share them below.

Closed for Comments

For more information about our efforts on updating floodplain regulations, visit raleighnc.gov.