Floodplain Management

Floodplain management is a community-based effort aimed at both preventing and mitigating the risks associated with flooding. In Niceville, floodplain management goes beyond simple regulatory compliance; it encompasses higher building and site design requirements that ensure structures are more resilient to flood events. 

In addition to these design considerations, the strategy also includes watershed-based management opportunities, which focus on the broader landscape and how water moves through it. This holistic approach takes into account natural waterways, stormwater runoff, and the capacity of the land to absorb water during heavy rain events. 

By implementing advanced land-use planning and promoting the preservation of natural floodplain areas, Niceville aims to enhance the community's overall resilience. Education and engagement of community members are crucial components of this effort, as informed residents can contribute to flood awareness and preparedness initiatives. 

Please contact us at 850-279-6436 Ext 1013 for assistance in map determinations.

Community Rating System (CRS)

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) was established in 1990 as a voluntary program that rewards communities for implementing flood management standards that go beyond NFIP requirements.

The City of Niceville participates in the CRS, which helps reduce flood insurance premiums by recognizing local efforts in three key areas:

  • Reducing and avoiding flood damage to insurable property
  • Supporting and strengthening the NFIP
  • Promoting comprehensive floodplain management

Niceville currently holds a Class 6 CRS rating, which provides a 20% discount on new or renewing NFIP flood insurance policies for properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).


Floodplain Review Process and Requirements

FEMA Requirements for Flood Openings in Foundation Walls and Enclosures

City of Niceville Floodplain Ordinance

Florida Building Code 8th Edition Flood Resistant Provisions

V Zone Certificate for Registered Engineers and Architects

Floodplain Review Requirements for Permit Applications in A, AE, V, and VE Zones

Floodplain Management in Florida Quick Guide

Dry Floodproofing Certificate Non-Residential

FEMA Elevation Certificate with Instructions - Note: This file cannot be viewed in a web browser. You must download this file and open it from your computer. If you get the “Please wait…” error message, you have opened the file in a web browser.

River Gages - All Florida counties

Juniper Creek at State Hwy 85 nr Niceville - USGS 02367310

Elevation Certificates

The City maintains copies of elevation certificates for building built or substantially improved within the SFHA.  These documents can be found through viewing the "Elevation Certificates" layer on the city's Flood Information Map.

Adopt-a-Drain

Keep Niceville Clean! Adopt A Drain!

Volunteer fifteen minutes, twice a month, for cleaner waterways and healthier communities. Storm drains flow directly to local lakes, rivers, wetlands, springs and the Gulf of America, acting as a conduit for trash and organic pollutants. Adopt-a-Drain asks residents to adopt a storm drain in their neighborhood and keep it clear of leaves, trash, and other debris to reduce water pollution.

  • Sign up online to adopt a drain in your neighborhood.
  • Keep your drain clear: sweep leaves, trash and other debris off the drain surface year-round.
  • Track your impact: Keep an estimated total of the debris you collect and enter it into your online account so we can gauge the cumulative results of our work.
  • Lead by example: Let friends and neighbors know about your commitment and, if they ask, tell them about small things they can do at home to prevent water pollution.

To Adopt a Drain visit https://fl.adopt-a-drain.org/