Floodplains allow rivers to rise and spread out, reducing pressure on infrastructure during heavy rains.  Floodplains are the flat areas of land next to rivers — the nexus between water and land. By designing our cities with floodplains, instead of on top of them, we can reduce risks of flooding and property damage. Floodplains also recharge our groundwater, help clean our water, and provide open spaces for us play. They are the spawning grounds for fish and a refuge for birds. Healthy floodplains can also help communities become more resilient to the effects of Floodplains are the flat areas of land next to rivers — the nexus between water and land. By designing our cities with floodplains, instead of on top of them, we can reduce risks of flooding and property damage. Floodplains also recharge our groundwater, help clean our water, and provide open spaces for us play. They are the spawning grounds for fish and a refuge for birds. Healthy floodplains can also help communities become more resilient to the effects of stormwater runoff during flood events. 

The City of Phoenix provides floodplain management services as listed below. These services include

• Plan Review for proposed alterations & construction
• Floodplain Development Permit Review
• Maintaining local floodplain maps and documents
• Inspections of approved development
• Investigations of floodplain violations
• Resolving violations and enforcing regulations
• Copies of Elevation Certificates are on file for many properties

All proposed alterations or construction on properties located in floodplain areas must be reviewed by the Floodplain Manager, and most projects require a Floodplain Development Permit.  Project examples include new construction, remodeling, or additions to existing dwellings or buildings; excavation, fill or extensive landscaping; and installation of fences, roads, and bridges. Please call the Planning and Building Department at (541) 535-2050 ext. 316 for more information.