25-1705 Adopting 2025-2030 Flood Plain Management Plan RESOLUTION NO. 25-1705
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF LONGWOOD, FLORIDA, ADOPTING THE
2025-2030 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR SEMINOLE COUNTY
AND ITS MUNICIPALITIES; PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY,
AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Federal Emergency Management Agency ("FEMA") through the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides for the Community Rating System ("CRS"); and
WHEREAS, the NFIP provides flood insurance discounts to communities that participate
in the CRS based on their floodplain management activities, including adoption of a floodplain
management plan; and
WHEREAS, on October 14, 2025, Seminole County Board of County Commissioners
adopted County Resolution No. 2025-R-86 adopting that certain Floodplain Management Plan
for Seminole County and its Municipalities dated 2025-2030 (the "Floodplain Management
Plan"), which is hereby incorporated in full by reference; and
WHEREAS, the City's adoption of the Floodplain Management Plan carries with it a
number of benefits, including promoting flood preparedness and potentially improving the City's
CRS rating allowing for NFIP insurance discounts within the City; and
WHEREAS,the Floodplain Management Plan complies with the Federal Hazard Mitigation
Planning Standards contained in 44 C. F. R. Part 201; and
WHEREAS,the adoption of the Floodplain Management Plan is in the best interests of the
health, safety and welfare of the public.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it resolved by the City Commission of Longwood, Florida, as
follows:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The foregoing recitals are hereby ratified as true and correct and
are adopted as a material part of this Resolution.
SECTION 2. Adoption of Floodplain Management Plan. The City hereby adopts the
Floodplain Management Plan adopted by Seminole County Board of County Commissioners by
Resolution No. 2025-R-86 in full as though set forth herein, a copy of which is on file with the City
Clerk. The City Manager is authorized to take actions as the City Manager deems necessary and
appropriate to implement the Floodplain Management Plan subject to budgetary constraints.
SECTION 3. Conflicts. In the event of a conflict between this Resolution and any other
resolution of the City,this Resolution shall control to the extent of the conflict, as allowable under
the law.
Resolution No. 25-1705
Page 1
SECTION 4. Severability. If any Section or portion of a Section of this Resolution is
held to be invalid, unlawful, or unconstitutional by a court of competent jurisdiction, it shall not
be held to invalidate or impair the validity, force, or effect of any other Section or part of this
Resolution.
SECTION 5. Effective Date. This Resolution shall become effective immediately upon
its passage and adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 15th day of December, 2025.
�S, / ! CITY COMMISSION
\ . .. L CITY OF LONGWOOD, FLORIDA
m 1 n Brian D. Sackett, M or
ATTEST: 40 ,M .
62aN....Ats .
Liane Cartagena, City Clerk
Approved as to form and legality for the use and reliance of the City of Longwood, Florida, only.
•
Daniel W. L n 1 , C A rney
Resolution No.25-1705
Page 2
Floodplain Management Plan
_________________________________
for
Seminole County
And its
Municipalities
2025-2030
1 Introduction
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Table of Contents
1 Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Planning Approach ....................................................................................................................................... 6
1.2 Topography and Land Use ........................................................................................................................... 9
1.3 Development, Redevelopment and Population Trends .............................................................................. 13
1.4 The Community Rating System ................................................................................................................. 15
1.5 References .................................................................................................................................................. 18
2 Planning Process .................................................................................................................................................. 19
2.1 Planning Approach ..................................................................................................................................... 19
3 Flood Risk Assessment ........................................................................................................................................ 26
3.1 Precipitation in Seminole County .............................................................................................................. 28
3.2 Seminole County Water Resources and Watersheds .................................................................................. 31
3.3 Flood Risks ................................................................................................................................................ 35
3.4 Historical Flooding..................................................................................................................................... 39
3.5 Locally Identified Flood Areas .................................................................................................................. 42
3.6 The National Flood Insurance Program ..................................................................................................... 43
3.7 Future Flood Risk ....................................................................................................................................... 43
3.8 Flood Impacts ............................................................................................................................................. 45
3.9 Flood Warning Systems ............................................................................................................................. 61
3.10 Natural and Beneficial Areas ..................................................................................................................... 61
3.11 References .................................................................................................................................................. 63
4 Goals and Objectives ........................................................................................................................................... 65
4.1 Background ................................................................................................................................................ 65
4.2 Goals .......................................................................................................................................................... 66
5 Preventive Measures ............................................................................................................................................ 68
5.1 Building Codes ........................................................................................................................................... 68
5.2 Planning and Zoning .................................................................................................................................. 70
5.3 Open Space Preservation ............................................................................................................................ 72
5.4 Subdivision Regulations ............................................................................................................................. 76
5.5 Floodplain Regulations .............................................................................................................................. 76
5.6 Stormwater Management ........................................................................................................................... 79
5.7 Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................ 81
5.8 Recommendations ...................................................................................................................................... 82
5.9 References .................................................................................................................................................. 82
6 Property Protection Measures .............................................................................................................................. 84
6.1 Keeping the Hazard Away ......................................................................................................................... 84
6.2 Retrofitting ................................................................................................................................................. 87
6.3 Insurance .................................................................................................................................................... 88
6.4 The Government’s Role ............................................................................................................................. 90
6.5 Repetitive Loss Properties and Analysis .................................................................................................... 98
6.6 Conclusions ................................................................................................................................................ 99
6.7 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................... 100
6.8 References ................................................................................................................................................ 100
7 Natural Resource Protection .............................................................................................................................. 101
7.1 Wetland Protection ................................................................................................................................... 101
7.2 Erosion and Sedimentation Control ......................................................................................................... 103
7.3 Lake and Stream Restoration ................................................................................................................... 105
7.4 Stormwater Best Management Practices .................................................................................................. 108
7.5 Pollution Regulations ............................................................................................................................... 109
7.6 Farmland Protection ................................................................................................................................. 112
7.7 Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 113
7.8 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................... 113
7.9 References ................................................................................................................................................ 114
8 Emergency Services Measures .......................................................................................................................... 115
8.2 Warning .................................................................................................................................................... 117
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8.3 Response .................................................................................................................................................. 119
8.4 Evacuation and Shelter ............................................................................................................................. 121
8.5 Post-Disaster Recovery and Mitigation .................................................................................................... 122
8.6 Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 125
8.7 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................... 125
8.8 References ................................................................................................................................................ 127
9 Structural Project Measures ............................................................................................................................... 128
9.1 Flood Control Measures ........................................................................................................................... 128
9.2 Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 136
9.3 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................... 137
9.4 References ................................................................................................................................................ 137
10 Public Information Measures ........................................................................................................................ 138
10.1 Outreach Projects ..................................................................................................................................... 138
10.2 Real Estate Disclosure .............................................................................................................................. 140
10.3 Libraries and Websites ............................................................................................................................. 141
10.4 Technical Assistance ................................................................................................................................ 143
10.5 Program for Public Information ............................................................................................................... 144
10.6 Conclusions .............................................................................................................................................. 148
10.7 Recommendations .................................................................................................................................... 149
10.8 References ................................................................................................................................................ 149
11 Revisions and Maintenance .......................................................................................................................... 150
Table of Tables
Table 1: Acres of Land-by-Land Use Category……………………………………………………….……...…14
Table 2: Community Rating System Premium Reductions…………………………………………………….16
Table 3: Seminole County Policy Savings for CRS Participation……………………………………………..17
Table 4: FMPC – Floodplain Management Planning Committee……………………………………………...19
Table 5: Major Storms near Seminole County, Florida (1990 to 2025)……………………………………….34
Table 6: Number of Permits for New Construction per Year in Seminole County…………………………..36
Table 7: Historical occurrences of floods in the County………………………………………………………..42
Table 8: Seminole County NFIP Polices by Jurisdiction……………………………………………………….44
Table 9: Flood Recurrence Interval……………………………………………………………………………….44
Table 10: Appraised Value of Buildings in Unincorporated Seminole County by Flood Zone ……………..49
Table 11: Seminole County Major Employers…………………………………………………………………...49
Table 12: Seminole County Residential vs Commercial Real Property Taxable Values …………………...52
Table 13: Flood Insurance Policies in Seminole Count y……………………………………………………….90
Table 14: Flood Insurance Policies by Occupancy in Seminole County……………………………………..90
Table 15: Flood Insurance Policies by Flood Zone……………………………………………………………..90
Table 16: Number and Value of Losses by Flood Zone………………………………………………………..90
Table 17: Flood Insurance for Repetitive Loss Properties……………………………………………………..99
Table of Figures
Figure 1: Seminole County Soil Map……………………………………………………………………………..11
Figure 2: Florida Soil Types…………………………………………………………………………………….....12
Figure 3: Seminole County Land Use Pattern.. ………………………………………………………………...15
Figure 4: Mitigation Planning Process.. ………………………………………………………………………….21
Figure 5: Public Comment Adjudication Form.. ………………………………………………………………...23
Figure 6: Seminole County Average Monthly Rainfall.. ………………………………………………………..28
Figure 7: Rainfall Distribution across Central Florida.. ………………………………………………………...29
Figure 8: Countywide Rainfall Sites.. …………………………………………………………………………….31
Figure 9: Watersheds within Seminole County………………………………………………………………….32
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Figure 10: Basins in Seminole County…………………………………………………………………………...33
Figure 11: Historical Storm Tracks near Seminole County (1852 to 2019)…………………………………..35
Figure 12: Location of Permits for New Construction from January 1, 2015 - June 30, 2020……………...37
Figure 13: Dams in Florida, based on the 2020 National Inventory of Dams………………………………..38
Figure 14: FEMA Flood Zones in Seminole County…………………………………………………………….45
Figure 15: Evacuation Routes for Seminole County ……………………………………………………………47
Figure 16: Seminole County Repetitive Loss Property Areas ………………………………………………....54
Figure 17: Repetitive Loss Area 1………………………………………………………………………………...55
Figure 18: Repetitive Loss Area 2 & 3……………………………………………………………………………55
Figure 19: Repetitive Loss Area 4, 5, & 6………………………………………………………………………..56
Figure 20: Repetitive Loss Area 7………………………………………………………………………………...56
Figure 21: Repetitive Loss Area 8………………………………………………………………………………...57
Figure 22: Repetitive Loss Area 9………………………………………………………………………………...57
Figure 23: Repetitive Loss Area 10……………………………………………………………………………….58
Figure 24: Repetitive Loss Area 11……………………………………………………………………………….58
Figure 25: Repetitive Loss Area 12, 13, & 14……………………………………………………………………59
Figure 26: Repetitive Loss Area 15 & 16………………………………………………………………………...59
Figure 27: Repetitive Loss Area 17 & 18………………………………………………………………………...60
Figure 28: Repetitive Loss Area 19……………………………………………………………………………….60
Figure 29: Wilderness Area Open to the Public in Seminole County …………………………………………63
Figure 30: Elevate Home…………………………………………………………………………………………..68
Figure 31: Planned Unit Developments………………………………………………………………………….70
Figure 32: Preserved Lands in Seminole County……………………………………………………………….74
Figure 33: BFE Examples ………………………………………………………………………………………….78
Figure 34: Effect of Development on Stormwater……………………………………………………………….79
Figure 35: Flood Protection Barrier ……………………………………………………………………………….84
Figure 36: Dry Floodproofing……………………………………………………………………………………...87
Figure 37: Example Flood Insurance Premiums………………………………………………………………..88
Figure 38: Straw Bales……………………………………………………………………………………………104
Figure 39: Aquatic and Riparian Buffer Plant Zones………………………………………………………….106
Figure 40: BMPs and Stormwater……………………………………………………………………………….109
Figure 41: Seminole County Evacuation Routes………………………………………………………………120
Figure 42: Flood Safety Brochure Distributed to Residents during Outreach Events ……………………..131
Municipal Annexes
Altamonte Springs…………………………………………………………………………………….……………A
Casselberry…………………………………………………………………………………………………………B
Lake Mary…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..C
Longwood…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..D
Oviedo………………….…………………………………………………………………………….……………. E
Sanford……………………………………………………………………………………………..……………….F
Winter Springs…………………………………………………………………………………………………...…G
Action Plan 2025-2030-……………………………….………………………..…………………………………..H
1 Introduction
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1 Introduction
The Problem: Seminole County, Florida, is subject to natural hazards that threaten life, health,
and property. Flooding has historically impacted the county, occurring after major storm events
such as Hurricane Irma (2017), Tropical Storm Fay (2008), Hurricane Frances (2004), and
Tropical Storm Gabrielle (2001). More recent flooding events include Hurricane Ian (2022),
Hurricane Nicole (2022), Hurricane Idalia (2023), Hurricane Helene and Milton (2024). Earlier
significant flood events include the 1960 flooding from Hurricane Donna and the 1953 Lake
Monroe flood, which resulted from prolonged rainfall over the St. Johns River basin. To better
understand these hazards, assess their impacts on people and property, and identify effective
mitigation strategies, the County’s Office of Emergency Management developed this Floodplain
Management Plan (FMP) as an appendix to the County’s Local Mitigation and Resiliency
Strategy (LMRS).
Flood mitigation does not eliminate all hazards or prevent all damages but instead focuses on
reducing long-term risk. As defined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA),
hazard mitigation refers to “any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk
to life and property from a hazard event.” This plan outlines strategies to build resilience against
flooding while integrating local and federal resources to support a proactive approach to
floodplain management.
Why Plan?
Every community faces unique flood hazards, possesses different resources to mitigate them, and
must consider various interests when identifying solutions. There is no single, universal solution
to flood hazard management—effective planning provides a structured, community-specific
approach to mitigating flood risks. A well-developed FMP enables Seminole County to:
• Identify and prioritize comprehensive flood mitigation strategies tailored to local needs.
• Ensure coordination among county departments, municipalities, and stakeholders to
avoid conflicting policies and inefficient spending.
• Strengthen the county’s eligibility for federal mitigation funding, ensuring the best use of
available resources.
• Meet the Community Rating System (CRS) Activity 510 requirements, which contribute
to flood insurance discounts for residents by demonstrating a commitment to floodplain
management.
This plan provides a framework for collaboration among government agencies, community
stakeholders, and private sector partners. It ensures that all possible mitigation activities are
reviewed, prioritized, and implemented efficiently, maximizing the effectiveness of flood risk
reduction measures.
CRS & FEMA Funding Requirements
Mitigation activities require funding, and a formally adopted mitigation plan is a prerequisite for
federal funding opportunities. Section 104 of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (42 U.S.C.
5164) mandates that, as of November 1, 2003, local governments must have a FEMA-approved
Local Mitigation Plan to qualify for hazard mitigation grants. Likewise, as of November 1, 2004,
1 Introduction
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an approved plan is required for post-disaster funding under FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant
Program (HMGP). These requirements are outlined in 44 Code of Federal Regulations Part 201.
Beyond fulfilling FEMA funding prerequisites, this Floodplain Management Plan aligns with the
CRS program to help reduce flood insurance premiums for Seminole County residents. CRS
Activity 510 (Floodplain Management Planning) awards credit to communities that develop a
comprehensive flood mitigation plan with public involvement and integration into local policies.
By adhering to CRS criteria, this plan enhances Seminole County’s ability to:
• Earn CRS credits that contribute to lower National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
premiums for property owners.
• Demonstrate proactive floodplain management, improving the county’s CRS
classification.
• Promote public engagement in flood risk awareness and mitigation decision-making.
This Plan
The Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan identifies proactive steps that both public
and private sectors can take to reduce safety risks, health hazards, and property damage caused
by flooding. This plan serves multiple functions:
1. Satisfies federal mitigation planning requirements, ensuring eligibility for FEMA
funding.
2. Aligns with CRS Activity 510, contributing to flood insurance premium reductions for
county residents.
3. Provides a strategic blueprint for mitigating the impacts of flooding on people, property,
and the environment.
The Floodplain Management Planning Committee (FMPC) played a critical role in developing
this plan. The committee included representatives from Seminole County departments,
municipalities, federal and state agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure a well-rounded and
inclusive planning process.
By adopting and implementing this Floodplain Management Plan, Seminole County strengthens
its resilience against flooding while securing financial benefits through FEMA and CRS
programs. The plan establishes a long-term vision for flood risk reduction, helping to create a
safer and more resilient community for current and future residents.
1.1 Planning Approach
This Floodplain Management Plan is the product of a rational thought process that reviews
alternatives and selects and designs those that will work best for the situation. This process is an
attempt to avoid the need to make quick decisions based on inadequate information. It provides
carefully considered directions to the County government by studying the overall damage
potential and ensuring that public funds are well spent.
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1.1.1 Planning Committee
This Floodplain Management Plan was developed under the guidance of the FMPC with
oversight from the Office of Emergency Management. To align with Seminole County
Administrative Code 4.12: Floodplain Management Planning Committee: The Committee must
include designated representatives from County departments, other local, state and federal
agencies that serve Seminole County as well as other stakeholders such as private citizens from
each of the county’s five (5) districts.. The member organizations and participants who were
members of this FMPC are shown in Table 4 in section 2.1.1 of this plan. The FMPC met and
developed the plan starting in March 2025, to October 2025. Sign-in sheets from these meetings
are kept for records by the Office of Emergency Management. The plan included identifying the
unique flood risks that affect the County, assessing these flood risks, identifying mitigation
actions for these risks, and involving the public in the development of the plan.
Technical support for the development and implementation of the Floodplain Management Plan
is provided by the Seminole County Office of Emergency Management and Development
Services.
1.1.2 Planning Process
The Floodplain Management Planning Committee followed the CRS 10-Step Planning Process,
based on the guidance and requirements outlined in the latest CRS Coordinator’s Manual and
FEMA regulations. The process is explained in further detail in Chapter 2 – Planning Process
1.1.3 Public Involvement
Step 2 of the planning process was to obtain input from the public, particularly residents and
businesses that have been affected by natural hazards. The public was invited to participate in the
process in the following ways:
• Attending and participating in meetings of the FMPC. Five meetings were held in total.
Five (5) members of the FMPC are appointed citizens from each of the Seminole County
Commissioner’s Districts to promote diverse public involvement.
• Contact with committee members.
• Letters mailed to repetitive loss areas regarding flood awareness, floodplain management
planning involvement and potential mitigation opportunities as part of Seminole County’s
Flood Awareness Week campaign held the first week of March annually, in coordination
with the Florida Floodplain Managers Association
• Public meetings held on March 27th, 2025, at the NW Branch Library, the North Branch
Library on August 20th, and the Central Branch Library on August 29th to gain public
input on the draft plan.
1.1.4 Coordination
Existing plans and programs were reviewed during the planning process. During the planning
process, contacts were made with a variety of regional, state and federal agencies and
organizations. Many of these agencies were members of the FMPC and provided review of and
support for this planning effort.
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Seminole County also coordinated with representatives from the municipalities in the County,
who were invited to participate and attend the FMPC meetings. Citizens representing various
areas of the County were members of the FMPC and provided valuable support. At the end of
the planning process, these same agencies and organizations reviewed the draft plan and
provided feedback.
1.1.5 Hazard Assessment and Problem Evaluation
The Committee addressed Steps 4 and 5 of the planning process (Assess the Hazard and Evaluate
the Problem) during meetings of the Committee. The Committee’s assessment and evaluation of
the flood hazard are covered in Chapter 3 of this plan. The FMPC evaluated flooding data,
including localized drainage, repetitive loss, hurricanes and tropical storms.
1.1.6 Goals
The Committee conducted goal setting exercises at one of its meetings in June of 2025. During
this meeting, the group established new goals and aligned goals with the newly established
action plan to ensure synchronicity across the Committees intended goal outcomes and our
communities risk mitigation actions. .. These goals and objectives are discussed in Chapter 4 of
this plan.
1.1.7 Mitigation Strategies
The FMPC considered everything that could impact the flood hazards and reviewed a wide range
of possible alternatives. They are organized under six general strategies for reaching the goals.
These strategies are the subject of Chapters 5 – 10 of this plan.
• Preventive Measures: zoning, building codes and other development regulations
• Property Protection Measures: relocation out of harm’s way, retrofitting buildings, etc.
• Natural and Beneficial Functions: preserving natural areas to protect species and habitats
or developing in ways that are more protective of species and habitats
• Emergency Services: warning, response, evacuation
• Structural Projects: levees, reservoirs, channel improvements
• Public Information: outreach projects, technical assistance to property owners, and other
measures.
1.1.8 Action Plan
After reviewing the various alternatives, the Committee drafted an action plan to identify
recommended projects, parties responsible for each of the projects, and a schedule for project
completion. The action plan is included as an appendix to this plan.
It should be noted that this Plan only serves to recommend mitigation measures. Implementation
of these recommendations depends on the adoption of this Plan by the Seminole County Board
of County Commissioners.
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1.2 Topography and Land Use
Geography and Climate
Seminole County, Florida, encompasses approximately 345 square miles, with 37 square miles
consisting of water bodies. The county's topography is relatively flat, featuring gently rolling
hills, with elevations ranging from less than five feet to about 130 feet above the North American
Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD88). The county seat, Sanford, is situated on the southern shore
of Lake Monroe in the northern region of the county. Other municipalities include Longwood,
Winter Springs, Casselberry, and Altamonte Springs in the southwestern part; Oviedo in the
south-central area; and Lake Mary adjacent to Sanford in the western section.
The climate is characterized by long, hot summers and mild, dry winters, with an average annual
rainfall of approximately 53 inches. Most precipitation occurs between June and September,
often associated with tropical storms or depressions, leading to significant variability in monthly
rainfall totals.
Hydrology
Seminole County is bordered to the north and east by the St. Johns River and primarily to the
west by the Wekiva River. The county contains numerous lakes, with over 120 exceeding five
acres in size, predominantly located in karst areas on sand ridges. Notable lakes include Lake
Monroe along the northern border, Lake Jesup traversing much of the northern half, and Lake
Harney along the eastern border.
Physiographic Regions
The county's landscape consists of alternating ridges and valleys with abundant lakes. According
to the USDA's Soil Survey of Seminole County, the primary physiographic regions are:
• Osceola Plain: A broad, flat area with elevations between 60 and 70 feet, covering most
of the western part of the county.
• Orlando Ridge: An area of higher elevation, possibly a relic "Cape Orlando," with its
northern tip extending into Seminole County near Altamonte Springs.
• Eastern Valley: A broad, flat area at elevations of 20 to 25 feet, through which the St.
Johns River flows, encompassing most of the eastern part of the county.
• Wekiva Plain: A flat area in western Seminole County dominated by the Wekiva River.
• Geneva Hill: A high area within the Eastern Valley near Geneva.
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Geology and Soils
The county is underlain by a thick sequence of limestone and dolomite rock, topped by a
relatively thin layer of sand, silt, shell material, and clay. The USDA's Soil Survey identifies ten
soil map units in Seminole County:
1. Urban Land-Pomello-Paola: Moderately well-drained and excessively drained sandy
soils, covering about 4% of the county.
2. Urban Land-Astatula-Apopka: Predominantly urban land with excessively drained
sandy soils and well-drained soils with a loamy subsoil, covering 22% of the county.
3. Urban Land-Tavares-Millhopper: Moderately well-drained sandy soils or those with a
loamy subsoil, covering 23% of the county.
4. Myakka-EauGallie-Urban Land: Poorly drained sandy soils or those with a loamy
subsoil, covering 24% of the county.
5. St. Johns-Malabar-Wabasso: Poorly drained sandy soils or those with a loamy subsoil,
primarily in the central part of the county, covering 8% of the area.
6. Basinger-Smyrna-Delray: Poorly drained and very poorly drained soils, either sandy
throughout or with a loamy subsoil, covering about 7% of the county.
7. Nittaw-Felda-Floridana: Very poorly drained and poorly drained mineral soils, some
with a clayey subsoil and others sandy with a loamy subsoil, found on floodplains and in
depressions, covering about 4% of the county.
8. Nittaw-Okeelanta-Terra Ceia: Very poorly drained mineral and organic soils, some
mucky with a clayey subsoil, others mucky with a sandy layer or mucky throughout,
located on floodplains adjacent to Lake Monroe and Lake Jesup, covering about 4% of
the county.
9. Brighton-Samsula-Sanibel: Very poorly drained organic and mineral soils, some mucky
throughout, some mucky with a sandy layer beneath, and some sandy throughout, found
in depressions and swamps south of Lake Jesup, covering about 1% of the county.
10. Pompano-Nittaw-Basinger: Poorly drained and very poorly drained mineral soils, some
sandy throughout and some mucky with a clayey subsoil, located in floodplains adjacent
to the Wekiva, St. Johns, and Econlockhatchee Rivers and Lake Jesup, covering about
3% of the county.
Aquifer
The Floridan Aquifer underlies all of Seminole County and supplies at least 95% of the
county's freshwater. While most of the county's soils are sandy and low in natural fertility,
they support forests, wildlife, and various agricultural activities, including ornamental plants
and vegetables.
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Figure 1: Seminole County Soil Map
This is a soil map only. This map is not utilized for larger Floodplain Management.
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Water Resources Atlas of Florida
Figure 1: Florida Soil Types
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1.3 Development, Redevelopment and Population Trends
Seminole County’s strategic location between Volusia and Orange Counties continues to drive
rapid growth, making it one of the fastest-growing counties in Florida. The Seminole County
2024 Comprehensive Plan builds upon previous planning efforts, incorporating updated policies
that balance economic development, environmental preservation, and quality of life. The Future
Land Use Section outlines key goals and objectives, including:
• Environmental Protection & Sustainability: Ensuring the protection and conservation
of water resources, air quality, regionally significant natural areas, open spaces, and
recreational areas, while integrating climate resilience and sustainability initiatives.
• Economic Growth & Workforce Development: Supporting a diverse, globally
competitive economy with an emphasis on higher-wage jobs, entrepreneurship, and
sustainable industry sectors.
• Affordable & Diverse Housing Opportunities: Expanding affordable and workforce
housing options, promoting mixed-use developments, and encouraging innovative
housing solutions to accommodate population growth.
• Infrastructure & Transportation: Enhancing public infrastructure, ensuring adequate
public services, and expanding multimodal transportation options, including public
transit, bicycle, and pedestrian networks.
• Community Development & Neighborhood Revitalization: Preserving established
residential neighborhoods, revitalizing declining areas, and fostering new energy-
efficient, mixed-use communities that offer educational, healthcare, and cultural
amenities.
• Rural & Agricultural Land Preservation: Protecting rural and agricultural areas
through strategic land use planning and conservation initiatives that maintain Seminole
County’s natural character.
• Private Property Rights & Smart Growth: Ensuring a balanced approach to land use
regulations that protect private property rights while promoting responsible development
aligned with community goals.
The Future Land Use Map (FLUM), informed by Seminole County’s Geographic Information
System (GIS) datasets, helps guide development by identifying suitable areas for growth,
conservation, and infrastructure investments. The county continues to adapt its planning
strategies to address population growth, economic shifts, and environmental challenges while
maintaining its commitment to sustainable and responsible development.
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There has not been a significant amount of re-development within Seminole County. All
development must follow the guidance of the Comprehensive Plan and must comply with all
current floodplain management regulations.
Source: Seminole County Comprehensive Plan
Table 1: Acres of Land-by-Land Use Category
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Source: Seminole County Comprehensive Plan – Future Land Use
1.3.1 Population Trends
Seminole County's estimated population is
484,271, reflecting a 2.6% increase from the 2019
estimate of 471,826. According to the University
of Florida's Bureau of Economic and Business
Research (BEBR), the county's population is
projected to continue growing, reaching
approximately 510,710 by 2025, an 8.2% increase
from 2019. By 2030, the population is expected to
rise further to 535,588, representing a 4.9%
increase from 2025. These figures account for both
the incorporated and unincorporated areas of the
county, indicating a steady upward trend in
population growth over the coming years.
1.4 The Community Rating System
FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) administers the CRS.
Under the CRS, flood insurance premiums for properties in participating
communities are reduced to reflect the flood protection activities that these
communities are implementing. This program can have a major influence on
Figure 2: Seminole County Land Use Pattern
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the design and implementation of flood mitigation activities, so a summary is provided here.
A community receives a CRS classification based on the credit points it receives for activities. It
can undertake any mix of activities that reduce flood losses, such as enhanced mapping,
regulatory changes, public information programs, flood damage reduction, or flood warning and
preparedness programs. There are 10 CRS classes: class 1 requires the most credit points and
gives the largest premium reduction; class 10 receives no premium reduction (see Table 2). A
community that does not apply for the CRS or that does not obtain the minimum number of
credit points is a class 10 community. On May 1, 2011, the County was rated a Class 6 and
policy holders within the SFHA enjoy a 20 percent reduction on the cost of flood insurance. This
CRS rating was reaffirmed in the 2017 and 2022 cycle verifications
Table 2: Community Rating System
Premium Reductions
1.4.1 Program Incentive
The CRS provides an incentive not just to start
new mitigation programs, but to sustain them.
There are two requirements that encourage a
community to implement flood mitigation
activities. First, the County will receive CRS
credit for this plan, once it is adopted. To
retain that credit, the County must submit an
evaluation report on progress made towards
implementing this plan to FEMA by October
1st of each year. That report must be made available to the media and to the public. Second, the
County must annually recertify to FEMA that it is continuing to implement its CRS credited
activities. Failure to maintain the same level of involvement in flood protection can result in a
loss of CRS credit points and a resulting increase in flood insurance rates to residents.
It is expected that this undesirable impact of loss of CRS credit for failure to report on the plan’s
progress or for failure to implement flood loss reduction projects will be a strong incentive for
the County to continue implementing this plan in dry years when there is less interest in
flooding.
1.4.2 Benefits of CRS Participation
Table 3 below shows the direct dollar benefit to Seminole County and the County’s policy
holders for participation in the CRS. The savings per policy are for properties in the FEMA
mapped 100-year floodplain (“Special Flood Hazard Area”). The savings are lower for policies
outside the mapped floodplain. CRS discounts do not apply to Preferred Risk Policies (PRP), as
shown in Table 3 below. The Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) is a Standard Flood Insurance Policy
(SFIP) that offers low-cost coverage to owners and tenants of eligible buildings located in the
moderate-risk B, C, and X Zones in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Regular
Program communities.
Class Points Premium in
Floodplain
Reduction
Outside
Floodplain
1 4500+45%10%
2 4,000-4,499 40%10%
3 3,500-3,999 35%10%
4 3,000-3,499 30%10%
5 2,500-2,999 25%10%
6 2,000-2,499 20%10%
7 1,500-1,999 15%5%
8 1,000-1,499 10%5%
9 500-999 5%5%
10 0-499 0%0%
1 Introduction
17
Table 3: Seminole County Policy Savings for CRS Participation
Community Name CRS Entry Date Current Effective
Date Current Class % Premium
Discount
Total Annual
Savings (Per CRS
Community)
Altamonte Springs 10/1/1994 5/1/2014 7 15% $88,511.10
Casselberry 10/1/2019 10/1/2019 8 10% $34,814.40
Lake Mary 10/1/2009 4/1/2021 5 25% $46,838.50
Longwood 10/1/1996 10/1/2010 10 0% -
Oviedo 10/1/2008 10/1/2013 6 20% $ 115,740.80
Sanford 10/1/2016 10/1/2016 7 15% $81,696.60
Seminole County 10/1/1991 5/1/2011 6 20% $648,881.20
Winter Springs 10/1/1993 5/1/2013 6 20% $122,091.60
Source: 2025 NFIP Data. Calculated discount amount based on total annual premium payments.
In addition to the direct financial reward for participation in the CRS, there are many other
reasons to participate. The other benefits that are more difficult to measure in dollars include:
1. The activities credited by the CRS provide direct benefits to residents, including:
• Enhanced public safety,
• A reduction in damage to property and public infrastructure,
• Avoidance of economic disruption and losses,
• Reduction of human suffering, and
• Protection of the environment.
2. A community’s flood programs will be better organized and more formal. Ad hoc
activities, such as responding to drainage complaints rather than an inspection program,
will be conducted on a sounder, more equitable basis.
3. A community can evaluate the effectiveness of its flood program against a nationally
recognized benchmark.
4. Technical assistance in designing and implementing a number of activities is available at
no charge from the Insurance Services Office.
5. The public information activities will build a knowledgeable constituency interested in
supporting and improving flood protection measures.
6. A community will have an added incentive to maintain its flood programs over the
coming years. The fact that the community’s CRS status could be affected by the
elimination of a flood-related activity or a weakening of the regulatory requirements for
1 Introduction
18
new developments will be considered by the governing board when considering such
actions.
7. Every time residents pay their insurance premiums, they are reminded that the
community is working to protect them from flood losses, even during dry years.
More information on the Community Rating System can be found at
https://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program-community-rating-system.
1.5 References
1. Community Rating System Coordinator’s Manual, FEMA, 2017.
2. Example Plans, FEMA/Community Rating System, 2006.
3. Getting Started – Building Support for Mitigation Planning, FEMA, FEMA-386-1, 2002.
4. Local Multi-Hazard Mitigation Planning Guidance, FEMA, 2008.
5. Soil Survey of Seminole County, Florida, USDA Soil Conservation Service, 1990.
6. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). General Soils Map of
Florida. Soil and Water Sciences Department, University of Florida. Available at:
https://soils.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/soil-and-water-resources/general-soils-map-of-florida/. Accessed
April 28, 2025.
7. State and Local Plan Interim Criteria under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, FEMA,
2002.
8. Florida Population Studies, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Bureau of Economic and
Business Research, 2020
https://www.bebr.ufl.edu/sites/default/files/Research%20Reports/projections_2025_asrh.pdf
9. Seminole County Comprehensive Plan, Seminole County Planning and Development
Department, 2018.
2 Planning Process
19
2 Planning Process
2.1 Planning Approach
This Floodplain Management Plan is the product of a rational thought process that reviews
alternatives and selects and designs those that will work best for the situation. This process is an
attempt to avoid the need to make quick decisions based on inadequate information during an
emergency. It provides carefully considered direction to the County government by studying the
overall damage potential and ensuring that public funds are well spent. The development of this
plan also followed FEMA’s CRS 10-Step Planning Process.
2.1.1 Planning Committee
This Floodplain Management Plan was developed under the guidance of a Floodplain
Management Planning Committee (FMPC) with oversight from the Seminole County Office of
Emergency Management. The Committee included representatives from various County
departments, other local, state and federal agencies that serve the County, and citizens from
throughout the County. Some of these citizen members of the FMPC had been flooded in the
past. The County department representatives, citizens and stakeholders who make up the FMPC
are shown in Table 4 below.
Table 4: FMPC – Floodplain Management Planning Committee
Amy Volpe Citizen District 1a
Shannon Webster Citizen District 1b
Jeff Abbot Citizen District 2
Karen Heriot Citizen District 3
Daniel O'Keefe Citizen District 4
Gabrielle Milch Citizen District 5
April Davis City of Altamonte Springs
Avi Bryan City of Altamonte Springs
Danielle Marshall City of Altamonte Springs
Jane Dai City of Casselberry
Kelly Brock City of Casselberry
Danielle Koury City of Lake Mary
Miguel Conde City of Lake Mary
Eric Nagowski City of Longwood
Shad Smith City of Longwood
Tom Smith City of Longwood
Amanda Kortus City of Oviedo
Chief Michael Woodward City of Oviedo
Prince Bates City of Sanford
Michael Cash City of Sanford
Clete Saunier City of Winter Springs
Terrilyn Rolle City of Winter Springs
2 Planning Process
20
Walt Williams Seminole County Building Division
Tony Coleman Seminole County Plans Examiner - Building Division
Jennifer Goff Seminole County Development Review / Engineering
Vladmir Simonovski Seminole County Development Review / Engineering
Jim Potter Seminole County Development Review / Engineering
Kathryn Valentine Seminole County OEM Mitigation Manager
John Lockwood Seminole County OEM Mitigation Coordinator
Alan Harris Seminole County OEM Director
Owen Reagan Roads/Stormwater appointed by PW Director
Marie Lackey Seminole County Public Works
Lucarelli, Dino Seminole County Engineering
Lucius Cushman SC Resiliency Committee Citizen
Rob Wolf SC Resiliency Committee Citizen
Steven Lerner Seminole County OEM Division Manager
Michelle Bernstein Citizen
Tony Nelson Engineering Division - Public Works
2 Planning Process
21
Step 5
Evaluate the Problem
Step 1
Organize
Step 3
Coordinate with Agencies & Organizations
(This step continues throughout the entire process)
Step 2
Involve the Public
(This step continues throughout the entire process)
Step 10
Implement, Evaluate, Revise
Step 9
Adopt the Plan
Step 8
Draft Action Plan
Step 7
Review Mitigation Strategies
Step 6
Set Goals
Step 4
Assess the Hazard
Figure 3: Mitigation Planning Process The plan development included
identifying the unique flood risks
that affect the County, identifying
mitigation actions for these risks,
and discussing how to involve the
public in the development of the
Plan.
The Seminole County Board of
County Commissioners passed a
Resolution amending
Administrative Code Section 4.12,
which established the planning
process and created the FMPC.
2.1.2 Planning Process
The FMPC followed a standard 10-
step process, based on the guidance
and requirements of FEMA. The
process is summarized in the flow
chart in the figure on the right. The
Committee assessed the flood
hazards affecting the County, set
goals, and reviewed a wide range
of activities that can mitigate the
adverse effects of the hazards. The
FMPC met five times over the
course of the planning process in
development of this plan. Agendas
and sign-in sheets for each of the
meetings are documented and
saved by the Office of Emergency
Management.
2 Planning Process
22
2.1.3 Public Involvement
Step 2 of the planning process was to obtain input from the public, particularly residents and
businesses that have been affected by natural hazards. The public was invited to participate in the
process through the following ways:
• Attending and participating in meetings of the FMPC. Nine (9) meetings were held in
total. Five (5) members of the FMPC are appointed citizens from each of the Seminole
County Commissioner’s Districts to promote diverse public involvement.
• Contact with citizen committee members in each meeting.
• Public meetings held at the beginning and end of the planning process to elicit additional
public input from those outside the committee.
2.1.3.1 Public Meetings
A public Floodplain Management Plan (FMP) meeting was held to kick off the planning cycle on
March 27th at the Seminole County Northwest Library Community Room in Lake Mary. The
goals of this meeting were to provide background on the FMP, familiarize citizens with the
planning process, and discuss the variety
of floodplain management resources
available in our community. At the
conclusion of the meeting, attendees were
invited to fill out a public comment form.
Additional public meetings were held at
the end of the planning process to solicit
feedback on the draft plan. Meetings took
place on August 20, 2025, and August
29th, 2025 at the North & Central Branch
Library Community Rooms in Sanford
and was also conducted virtually as an
online option. The meeting was advertised
through letters to addresses within the
Special Flood Hazard Area, a notice in the
local newspaper, postings in County public
buildings, and announcements on the
Prepare Seminole website, the Seminole
County events calendar, and multiple
social media platforms.
During the meeting, background on the plan—including its findings and recommendations—was
presented. Attendees were provided the opportunity to ask questions and submit comments for
review and potential inclusion in the final plan. The committee also summarized how public
input received throughout the planning process was considered and integrated into the FMP.
2 Planning Process
23
2 Planning Process
24
Figure 4: Public Comment Adjudication Form
2.1.3.2 Other Public Involvement Methods
Seminole County promoted the floodplain management plan through its established Local
Mitigation and Resiliency Strategy (LMRS) Committee, which includes members from a cross-
section of the community and who represent a variety of local organizations that are key
stakeholders of plan.
2.1.4 Coordination
Existing plans and programs were reviewed during the planning process. In order to effectively
update all parts of the plan, a review was done of the Seminole County and municipal
Comprehensive Plans, the Local Mitigation Strategy, the Seminole County Future Land Use
plan, National Inventory of Dams, Area Basin Studies, and Geographic Information Systems
map data. In addition, contacts were made with
regional, state and federal agencies and
organizations during the planning process. Requests
for updated information were made of a variety of
stakeholder agencies, including the National Weather
Service, the Florida Division of Emergency
Management, and the Insurance Services Office to
obtain technical information needed for review and
inclusion in the plan.
2.1.4.1 Solicitation of Comments
Members of the FMPC included representatives from
different areas of the community, including citizen
representatives from all five (5) commission districts.
These stakeholders provided valuable comments
throughout the planning process.
Aside from the citizen committee members input,
public comments were encouraged at each of the
public planning meetings. Each of these comments
were considered and discussed during the following
committee meeting. The final decision on the public
comment by the committee typically fell into one of
three categories on the adjudication form seen on Figure 4. The form is used to track public
comment consideration & implementation into the plan during the update cycle.
2.1.4.2 Neighboring Communities
All incorporated municipalities within Seminole County were made aware of the planning
process via e-mail and calendar invitation. Each incorporated municipality was invited to attend
the FMPC meetings. Participating municipal agencies were involved through the planning
process and community profiles are included as appendices to this plan for each of the six
participating communities.
2 Planning Process
25
2.1.4.3 Contacting Other Agencies and Meetings with Agencies
Because Seminole County is not a coastal county, the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection’s Coastal Management Program was not contacted for this planning effort.
2.1.5 Hazard Assessment and Problem Evaluation
The Committee addressed Steps 4 and 5 of the planning process (Assess the Hazard and Evaluate
the Problem) during the March and July meetings of the FMPC. The flood hazard data and
vulnerability to critical facilities, buildings and infrastructure and the impact of the flood hazard
on life, health and safety is covered in Chapter 3 of this document. The LMRS also provided
data and support for Hazard Assessment and Problem Evaluation sections of the plan.
2.1.6 Goals
The Committee reviewed the Floodplain Management Plan Goals at the July FMPC meeting.
During this meeting, the list of current goals was reviewed and discussed, and then the
Committee agreed upon a final list of goals and objectives. These goals are discussed in Chapter
4 of this document.
2.1.7 Mitigation Strategies
During the September meeting of the FMPC, the Committee reviewed and discussed various
mitigation measures which could help to reduce or eliminate the flood hazards. The Committee
went through a comprehensive list of potential options based on the following six general
categories:
• Preventive Measures
• Property Protection Measures
• Natural Resource Protection Measures
• Emergency Services Measures
• Structural Measures
• Public Information Measures
2.1.8 Action Plan
After reviewing the various alternatives, the Committee drafted an action plan to identify
recommended projects, parties responsible for implementation, a schedule for project
completion, and identification of funding sources. The action plan is included as an appendix to
this document.
This Floodplain Management Plan serves only to recommend mitigation measures.
Implementation of these recommendations depends on adoption of this plan by the Seminole
County Board of County Commissioners.
3 Flood Risk Assessment
26
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Flooding is the deadliest and most costly storm-related natural hazard in the United States. Many
deaths due to flooding can be avoided by not driving through flooded roads and paying attention
to evacuation warnings.
Flood Definition
The U.S. Geological Survey, Water Science School defines a flood as an overflow of water onto
land that is normally dry. Floods can occur during heavy rains, when ocean waves come on
shore, when snow melts too fast, or when dams or levees break. Floods range in scale, they can
be only a few inches of water, or they can cover a house to the rooftop.
A flood inundates a floodplain. Most floods fall into four major categories: riverine flooding,
coastal flooding, storm surge and inland flooding. Seminole County is only susceptible to two
types of flooding due to its landlocked central Florida positioning and its riverine borders of the
St. John’s and Wekiva River.
Flooding of Major Water Bodies in Seminole County
Seminole County’s flood vulnerability is driven largely by its riverine hydrology, centered on the
St. Johns River, Wekiva River, and Econlockhatchee River systems, each with distinct flood
responses shaped by watershed dynamics, topography, land use, and upstream conditions.
The St. Johns River System
The St. Johns River—Florida’s longest river—is a low-gradient, slow-moving river that flows
northward and forms Seminole County’s eastern and northern boundaries. Its flood behavior is
markedly different from flashier systems:
• Hydrologic lag: Rainfall upstream in Brevard, Orange, and Volusia Counties can result in
delayed flooding downstream in Seminole County. It may take several days to weeks for
high water levels to reach and affect areas like Sanford, Geneva, and river adjacent areas.
• Backwater flooding: During tropical cyclones downstream constrictions or high tides
near the river mouth (e.g., Jacksonville) can cause backwater effects, raising water levels
upstream in Seminole and prolonging floods.
• Flood stage sensitivity: When the basin is well saturated, even moderate rainfall events
can tip the river above flood stage due to the river's limited conveyance and high-water
table. Long-standing floods, such as after Hurricane Irma (2017) and Hurricane Ian
(2022), were exacerbated by the river’s low topographic relief, with water remaining
overbank for weeks. Hurricane Ian (2022): Caused the St. Johns River at Lake Harney to
remain above flood stage for over 30 days, severely affecting Geneva and adjacent rural
neighborhoods.
The Wekiva River
The Wekiva River is a spring-fed tributary of the St. Johns River, flowing from the Wekiwa
Springs basin forming the western boundary of Seminole County. While its baseflow is stable
due to its spring source, flooding conditions:
• Result in short-duration overbank flooding, and bank erosion especially at constricted
developed areas, bridges or culverts near Altamonte Springs and Longwood.
3 Flood Risk Assessment
27
• Downstream areas can experience compound flooding, where Wekiva River overbanking
is combined with backwater flooding from the St. Johns River, as seen during Tropical
Storm Fay (2008).
Econlockhatchee River
The Econlockhatchee River, primarily affecting southeastern Seminole County and the City of
Oviedo, is a rainfall-dependent, rapid-response system:
• With little baseflow and steep tributary slopes in some areas, it reacts quickly to intense
thunderstorms.
• Urbanization and wetland loss in the watershed have increased peak runoff and reduced
infiltration, heightening flood risk during summer storm events.
• Flooding in this basin tends to be more flash-prone, with shorter duration but higher
velocity flows, posing a risk to road crossings, culverts, and adjacent homes.
Lakes Monroe, Jesup and Harney
• Lake Monroe, fed by the St.
Johns River, serves as a natural
flood reservoir but has limited
outflow capacity. Prolonged
rainfall can raise lake levels to
flood adjacent areas of the city of
Sanford’s waterfront, downtown
and older neighborhoods.
• Lake Harney, in the eastern rural
Geneva area, similarly lacks
significant outflow relief. High
inflow combined with backwater
from downstream can result in
wide floodplain inundation. This
flooding primarily impacts homes
near the lake, and limits access to
residential properties.
Urban Flooding & Impervious Surfaces
Beyond major rivers, due to continued urban stormwater flooding has been a growing concern in
Seminole County:
• Altamonte Springs and parts of Sanford and Casselberry see localized street and property
flooding due to undersized storm drains, loss of natural retention areas, and impervious
surface expansion.
• The Little Wekiva River, modified over the years for drainage and development, has lost
floodplain storage capacity, leading to frequent nuisance flooding in urbanized corridors.
3 Flood Risk Assessment
28
Flood History
Seminole County has a long history of significant flood events impacting its communities.
Notably, in 1953, heavy rainfall over the St. Johns River basin caused Lake Monroe to flood the
streets of Downtown Sanford, reaching a record crest of 8.51 feet. In 1964, Hurricane Dora
brought strong winds and rainfall to the area, resulting in minor damage to 461 homes and eight
mobile homes, as well as significant damage to 26 farm buildings and 12 boats.
Since 1994, the county has experienced multiple major floods. For instance, Tropical Storm Fay
in 2008 caused extensive flooding in east-central Florida, including historic flooding on the St.
Johns River, affecting areas in Seminole County such as Sanford and Geneva. Hurricane Irma in
2017 brought tropical storm conditions to the county, with sustained winds reaching 55 mph and
gusts up to 75 mph. The storm caused widespread flooding, leading to minor damage in 762
homes, extensive damage in 180 homes, and the demolition of 25 homes, with total damages to
businesses and homes estimated at approximately $543.2 million. More recently, in 2022,
Hurricane Ian resulted in extensive floods in areas adjacent to the Little Wekiva River in
Altamonte Springs, the St. Johns River at Lake Harney and in Sanford, and the branches of the
Econlockhatchee River near Oviedo. The storm destroyed two structures, caused major damage
to 1,076 structures, and inflicted minor impacts on 580 others, with total damages in Seminole
County estimated at about $241 million.
These events have disrupted daily life, closed streets, damaged properties, and, in some cases,
resulted in fatalities. In response, Seminole County continues to update and implement its
Floodplain Management Plan to address flood control and protection issues, aiming to enhance
community resilience against future flooding events.
3.1 Precipitation in Seminole County
Seminole County receives an average of approximately 53 inches of rainfall per year, which is
higher than the U.S. average of 38 inches. However, this precipitation is not evenly distributed
throughout the year. The county experiences a distinct rainy season from June through October,
with August typically being the wettest month. Conversely, November tends to be the driest.
This seasonal pattern plays a significant role in local flood risk and should be considered in
floodplain management efforts.
Figure 5: Seminole County Average Monthly Rainfall
Source: https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/county/fl/seminole, 2025
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 29
Figure 6: Rainfall Distribution across Central Florida
Source: Radar-Based Rainfall Estimates - Seminole.WaterAtlas.org
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 30
Precipitation During Large Rain Events
Although local amounts of rainfall may have been greater, these are the record rainfall amounts
for the previous large rain events in Seminole County’s recent history.
Storm Name Date(s) Maximum Rainfall Observed
(Per Event)
Month Average
(All-Time)
Month Average
(That Year)
Hurricane
Milton
Oct 9-10,
2024 13” (Lake Sylvan) 3.66” 9.98”
Hurricane Ian Sep 28–
30, 2022
16.34” at Fire Station 35
(Five-Points) 7.68” 29.69”
Hurricane
Irma
Sep 10–
11, 2017 12.46" (Lake Mary) 7.68” 23.46”
Tropical
Storm Fay
Aug 18–
24, 2008 Over 12" 7.93” 18.63”
Hurricane
Frances
Sep 4-6,
2004 10.01” (Yankee Lake) 7.68” 16.66”
Hurricane
Charley
Aug 13,
2004 4.5” (Little Wekiva) 7.93” 13.14”
Source: Local estimates are based on Seminole County Public Works records using rainfall sites on map below
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 31
3.2 Seminole County Water Resources and Watersheds
Seminole County has an abundance of surface water resources. The St. Johns River and
Econlockhatchee River as well as three large lakes – Lake Monroe, Lake Jesup and Lake Harney
– fall at least partly within the County boundaries.
There are also six watersheds that fall partly within
Seminole County, as shown in Figure 9. Within these
six major watersheds are smaller sub-watersheds that
drain into the tributaries. Each of these streams has
adjacent floodplains that are inundated during a flood.
The condition of the land in the watershed affects
what happens when precipitation falls. For example,
more rain will run off the land and into streams if the
terrain is steep, if the ground is already saturated from
previous rains, if the watershed is significantly covered with impervious pavement and parking
lots, or if depressional storage areas (like swamps) have been filled in. Thus, urban development
in the watershed can contribute to flooding. Each of the watersheds in Seminole County contains
Figure 7: Countywide Rainfall Sites
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 32
urban as well as rural areas, except for Deep Creek, which is mostly rural. Watersheds that are
more urbanized tend to flood more quickly than rural watersheds.
Figure 8: Watersheds within Seminole County
Source: Seminole County GIS Division
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 33
Figure 9: Basins in Seminole County
St. Johns River Water Management District: Middle St. Johns River basin – SJRWMD
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 34
2025 Seminole County Basin Studies
Seminole County Public Works is studying the East County Drainage Basins with the goal of
implementing a cost-effective stormwater program, to minimize flooding and the adverse
impacts of uncontrolled stormwater runoff.
A drainage basin is an area of land that collects and channels rainfall and streamflow toward a
common outlet, such as a river, lake, or ocean. It includes surface water (streams, lakes,
reservoirs, wetlands) as well as the underlying groundwater. Studying these basins, known as a
basin study, provides
critical information for
managing water supply,
maintaining water
quality, and identifying
flood risks. These
studies also guide
effective flood control
solutions and long-term
stormwater
management strategies.
The East County Basin
Studies are divided into
three groups: Group A
(Soldiers Creek, Gee
Creek, and Little Lake
Howell), Group B
(Howell Creek), and
Group C (Lake Jesup)
To achieve this goal, the
project is developing a comprehensive watershed management plan that will guide infrastructure
improvements, update critical flood data, and identify effective strategies for long-term
stormwater management. This process involves several key phases:
• Watershed Data Collection – Hydrology, hydraulics, and infrastructure inventory
• Level of Service (LOS) Evaluation – Assess current drainage system performance
• Floodplain Mapping – Update using modern modeling methods
• Alternatives Analysis – Identify feasible, cost-effective improvements
These basin studies are part of the broader Seminole County Stormwater Master Plan, currently
in development. Together, they provide the framework for protecting communities, preserving
water resources, and ensuring sustainable stormwater management across the County.
3 Flood Risk Assessment
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 35
3.3 Flood Risks
3.3.1 Tropical Cyclones
Flooding in Seminole County is frequently caused by tropical cyclones, including hurricanes,
tropical storms, and tropical depressions. These systems bring prolonged heavy rainfall and
strong winds that can overwhelm local drainage systems and cause extensive flooding,
particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. In Seminole County, storms often last several
days, increasing the likelihood of sustained and widespread flood conditions. Additionally, high
winds and rainfall can generate wave action on the County’s major lakes—Lake Monroe, Lake
Jesup, and Lake Harney—posing further risk to properties located along these shorelines.
Historically, many hurricanes and tropical storms have passed near or through Seminole County,
as shown in Table 5.
Table 5: Major Storms near Seminole County, Florida (1990 to 2025)
Date Storm Name Deaths
(FL)
Injuries
(FL)
Property Damage
10/09/2024 Hurricane Milton 6 14 (US) $38 billion (FL)
9/26/2024 Hurricane Helene 34 117 (US) $56 billion (FL)
8/30/2023 Hurricane Idalia 5 Hundreds
(direct & indirect) $3.6 billion (FL)
10/10/2022 Hurricane Nicole 5 0 $1 billion (FL)
9/28/2022 Hurricane Ian 150
(statewide)
Hundreds
(direct & indirect) $122 billion (FL)
9/11/2017 Hurricane Irma 7 Hundreds
(direct & indirect) $50,000,000,000 (US)
10/7/2016 Hurricane Matthew 2 0 $10,000,000,000 (US)
8/24/2008 Tropical Storm Fay 5 0 $390,000,000 (FL)
2/3/2007 Severe Storms and Tornadoes 0 0 $43,000,000 (FL)
8/24/2006 Hurricane Ernesto 0 0 $500,000,000 (US)
10/5/2005 Tropical Storm Tammy 0 0 <$25,000,000 (US)
9/24/2004 Hurricane Jeanne 3 0 $6,900,000,000 (US)
9/16/2004 Hurricane Ivan 14 0 $8,300,000,000 (FL)
9/4/2004 Hurricane Frances 5 0 $8,000,000,000 (FL)
8/13/2004 Hurricane Charley and TS
Bonnie
9 0 $14,000,000,000 (FL)
9/3/2003 Tropical Storm Henri 0 2 Minor Flooding
9/2/2002 Tropical Storm Edouard 0 0 Minor Flooding
9/13/2001 Tropical Storm Gabrielle 2 (1 in
Seminole) 0 $230,000,000 (FL)
10/4/2000 Tropical Storm Leslie 3 0 $700,000,000 (FL)
10/20/1999 Hurricane Irene 8 3 $8,000,000 (FL)
10/22/1998 Hurricane Mitch 2 65 $20,000,000 (FL)
9/15/1998 Hurricane Georges 0 0 $20,000,000 (FL)
8/22/1995 Tropical Storm Jerry 0 0 $30,000,000 (FL)
7/31/1995 Hurricane Erin 0 0 $700,000,000 (FL)
11/8/1994 Tropical Storm Gordon 8 0 $400,000,000 (FL)
Sources: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Hurricane Center and the Federal
Emergency Management Agency
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Figure 10: Historical Storm Tracks near Seminole County (1852 to 2019)
Source: NOAA Historical Hurricane Tracks
The trajectory of tropical cyclones plays a critical role in determining
the severity of impacts on hurricane-prone communities such as those in
Seminole County, Florida. The proximity, orientation, and directional
movement of a storm directly influence wind intensity, precipitation
totals, and storm surge effects. Analyzing historical storm tracks
provides valuable insight into regional vulnerability and informs hazard
mitigation planning. Figure 11 illustrates the historical paths of
hurricanes and tropical storms that have either directly impacted or
passed near Seminole County, highlighting the county’s exposure to cyclonic activity over time.
3.3.2 Flash Floods
A second source of flooding in Seminole County is flash flooding. Flash floods are generated by
severe storms that drop a large amount of rainfall in a short period of time. Flash floods strike
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quickly and end quickly, with very little warning time. Areas with steep slopes and narrow
stream valleys are particularly vulnerable to flash flooding, as are the banks of small tributary
streams. In hilly areas, the high velocity flows and short warning times make flash floods
hazardous and destructive.
In urban areas, flash flooding can be triggered by increased stormwater runoff due to land
development. When buildings are constructed on open spaces, hard surfaces like parking lots and
rooftops replace forests, swamps, fields, and other natural land covers. When rainfall hits these
impervious surfaces, it runs off them rather than infiltrating into the soil that was once there.
Along the way, stormwater runoff picks up sediment, debris and pollutants on the hard surfaces
and carries them to streams or rivers. Thus, developed land absorbs less rainfall than
undeveloped land, and increases pollution in local waterways. As we develop land, the amount
and speed of storm water runoff increases. As a result, flash floods often occur in urban areas
where much of the watershed is covered in impervious surfaces. Development in the floodplain
and watersheds of Seminole County could lead to increased flooding problems in the future, if
not mitigated.
Table 6 shows the distribution of building permits issued from 2015 to mid-2020. New
development such as this can trigger more flash floods. This data comes from the Seminole
County Building Division.
Source: Seminole County GIS
3.3.3 Dam Failure
Dams are designed to hold back large amounts of water. If they fail or are overtopped, they can
produce a dangerous flood situation because of high velocities and large volumes of water
released. A break in a dam can occur with little or no warning on clear days when people are not
expecting rain or a flood. Breaching often occurs within hours after the first visible signs of dam
failure, leaving little time for evacuation.
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Figure 11: Dams in Florida, based on the 2020 National Inventory of Dams
Dam failures are usually caused either by structural problems with the dam or by hydrologic
problems. Structural problems include seepage, erosion, cracking, sliding and overturning
resulting from the age of the dam or a lack of maintenance. Hydrologic problems typically occur
when there is excessive runoff due to heavy precipitation. For example, a dam failure can occur
if the dam must impound more water than it was designed to, or if the spillway capacity is
inadequate for water that needs to pass downstream.
A dam can suffer a partial failure or a complete failure, but the potential energy of the water
stored behind even a small dam can cause loss of life and great property damage downstream.
There are currently no dams located within Seminole County, but there are dams located to the
north, west and south of the County.
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3.3.4 Obstructions
Obstructions can affect a channel, such as small bridge openings or log jams, or they can affect
an entire floodplain, such as road embankments, fill and buildings. Channel obstructions will
cause smaller, more frequent floods, while floodplain obstructions impact the larger, less
frequent floods where most of the flow is overbank, outside the channel. Obstructions can be
either natural or manmade and will vary in depth based on the size and type of obstruction.
Natural obstructions like log jams can be washed away during larger floods. Manmade
obstructions pose a more serious problem, because they tend to be more permanent.
3.4 Historical Flooding
Seminole County has experienced several flooding events in the past, caused by heavy rainfall or
tropical events.
In 1994, two storms brought heavy rain to most of the Florida peninsula during the last half of
September. Rivers and streams overflowed, flooding streets and some urban areas. A flash flood
on July 21, 2001, produced by heavy rain inundated the Tuskawilla area of Winter Springs,
flooding three homes and causing $15,000 worth of property damage. There has been one
recorded death caused by flooding which took place on September 15, 2001. This occurred in the
City of Winter Springs during the aftermath of Tropical Storm Gabrielle, which brought wind
gusts to around 45 miles per hour, causing minor damage across much of east central Florida.
Following the storm, a 15-year-old boy drowned while playing with friends in Gee Creek near
Winter Springs after he was pulled underwater by branches and other debris in the fast-moving
water. Raising awareness about the danger of currents following heavy rains, as well as the
potential for debris in floodwaters, can help prevent similar accidents in the future.
On August 19, 2002, three inches of rapidly falling rain flooded streets and six homes in
Sanford. This led to $60,000 of property damage. A thunderstorm brought rainfall and
widespread flooding of major roadways in Seminole County on August 29, 2002. The roadway
flooding occurred about three miles south of Oviedo. On September 5, 2004, Hurricane Frances
brought eight to ten inches of rain across much of Seminole County, flooding homes and streets.
Four days later, the rain from Hurricane Frances had caused water levels to reach flood stage in
the middle St. Johns River Basin. Levels continued to rise and then fell slightly until Hurricane
Jeanne followed the same track across Florida as Hurricane Frances. Significant flooding
followed, and the Lake Harney gauge reached a record crest of 10.1 feet. Near Geneva, roads,
nurseries and homes along Lake Harney were flooded. Water came over the seawall in Sanford
and flooded numerous structures along the south shore of Lake Monroe. The total amount of
property damages due to these events was $4.8 million.
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In 2008, Tropical Storm Fay made four landfalls in Florida. While crossing central Florida, Fay
unexpectedly strengthened over land to just under hurricane intensity with 70 mph winds. The
storm caused extensive flooding in east central Florida, including historic flooding on the St.
Johns River. The rainfall during this period, from August 18th to August 23rd, at its highest
reached 17.59 inches with the highest single day being 9.81 inches on August 21st.
Approximately 500 homes and many roadways were damaged as the river’s water level
continued to climb after the storm had passed. Seminole County schools were closed due to
impassable roads. The pictures in the box above show floods from Tropical Storm Fay in
Seminole County.
In October of 2016, Hurricane Matthew brought minor flooding to the Little Wekiva River and
Altamonte Springs area. Although the storm only brought tropical storm force winds to Seminole
County, $15,000,000 worth of damage occurred as a result. In September of 2017, Hurricane
Irma brought major, near record flooding to the Little Wekiva River and St. John’s River at Lake
Harney. Moderate flooding also occurred in Sanford along Lake Monroe. Although Seminole
County only experienced tropical storm force winds from Hurricane Irma, the flooding that
resulted due to heavy rainfall and already saturated lakes and rivers was severe. Overall, property
damages from Irma were approximately $543,200,000.
2022 Historic Flooding
In recent years, Seminole County has continued to
experience frequent and increasingly severe flood
events, particularly due to the impacts of tropical
systems during hurricane season. These events have
placed substantial strain on infrastructure, displaced
residents, and underscored the growing vulnerability
of flood-prone areas throughout the county.
The 2022 hurricane season marked one of the most
devastating flood years in recent memory for
Seminole County. In late September, Hurricane Ian
swept across the Florida Peninsula, bringing
torrential rainfall and prolonged flooding to the
region. Historic flood levels were observed along
the St. Johns River, Lake Harney, and Lake Jesup, as well as less commonly flooded suburban
areas in Sanford, and Altamonte Springs. Due to the slow-moving nature of the St. John’s River,
and its interconnected water bodies, waters remained above flood stage for weeks in areas
adjacent to Lake Harney, Lake Jesup, Lake Monroe and the greater St. John’s River Region.
More than 1,000 homes were affected by floodwaters, and road closures, infrastructure failures,
and prolonged power outages exacerbated the impacts. The storm left behind an estimated $340
million in countywide damages, with flooding
identified as the primary hazard.
Just weeks later, in early November 2022,
Hurricane Nicole struck the region while
residents were s till in recovery. Though
weaker than Ian, Nicole brought additional
rainfall and elevated water levels to already
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 41
saturated floodplains. Rivers and lakes that had not yet fully receded overflowed again,
contributing to secondary and prolonged flooding in low-lying and previously impacted areas.
The compounding effect of back-to-back storms reinforced the challenges Seminole County
faces from cumulative and prolonged flood exposure.
The due to the widespread flooding across Central Florida, St. John’s based riverine flooding
lasted over 40 days in some areas of the county. Satellite photos are pictured below displaying
the county on a typical day, and during the 2022 major flood event.
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In August 2023, Hurricane Idalia tracked west of Seminole County but still brought tropical
storm-force conditions to the area. Although rainfall totals were moderate compared to Ian,
localized flooding occurred due to short-duration, high-intensity rainfall. Drainage systems
already stressed by previous seasons saw backups, particularly in urbanized corridors of
Altamonte Springs and Casselberry. While damages were more limited, the event once again
demonstrated the County’s sensitivity to even peripheral impacts from tropical systems.
In fall 2024, Hurricane Helene passed offshore but contributed to widespread rainfall and minor
flooding, primarily through elevated lake and river levels. The real concern, however, came in
early October with Hurricane Milton. Though not a direct landfall, Milton's outer bands
delivered a persistent rain event that saturated the basin feeding into the St. Johns River. Days of
steady precipitation caused the river to swell and crest above flood stage, leading to repeat
flooding in Geneva, Midway, and along Lake Jesup’s western shoreline. Standing water
remained in some neighborhoods for over a week, again disrupting access to homes and
emergency routes.
Table 7: Historical occurrences of floods in the County
Location Date Time Type Deaths Injuries Property Damages
Florida 9/15/1994 NA Flooding 0 0 $500,000
Winter Springs 7/21/2001 5:00 PM Flash Flood 0 0 $15,000
Winter springs 9/15/2001 1:00 PM Urban/Small Stream Flood 1 0 $0
Sanford 8/19/2002 4:45 PM Flash Flood 0 0 $60,000
Oviedo 8/29/2002 4:38 PM Flash Flood 0 0 $0
Seminole County 9/5/2004 1:30 AM Flash Flood 0 0 $0
Geneva and Sanford 9/9/2004 7:00 AM Flooding 0 0 $4,800,000
Seminole County 9/23/2014 5:00 PM Heavy Rain 0 0 $0
Altamonte Springs 6/30/2016 5:30PM Flooding 0 0 $10,000
Seminole County 10/7/2016 3:00AM Flooding 1 0 $15,000,000
Seminole County 9/10/2017 9:00PM Flooding 0 0 $543,200,000
Seminole County
(Lake Charm)
07/20/2021 7:30PM Heavy Rain 0 0 $0
Seminole County
(Sanford)
09/19/2021 4:15PM Flash Flood 0 0 $0
Seminole County
(Bear Lake)
09/28/2022 2:00PM Flooding 0 0 $241,000,000
Seminole County
(Lake Monroe)
11/08/2022 12:00PM Flooding 0 0 $0
Seminole County
(Chuluota)
10/09/2024 1:00PM Flooding 0 0 $27,000,000
Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service
3.5 Locally Identified Flood Areas
While the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides mapped floodplain boundaries,
actual flooding events in Seminole County have demonstrated that floodwaters can extend
beyond these designated areas. Factors contributing to this include natural processes like erosion
and sedimentation, as well as human activities such as development that increases impervious
surfaces, leading to altered drainage patterns and potential debris blockages.
Recognizing these challenges, Seminole County has undertaken comprehensive basin studies to
reassess flood risks across the region. These studies have revealed that the number of properties
at risk during a 100-year flood event is higher than previously estimated. For instance, in the
Wekiva Basin alone, approximately 3,386 new parcels are projected to be added to the floodplain
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Econlockhatchee River flooding from Hurricane Ian
designation, while 595 parcels may be removed based on updated assessments. This indicates a
significant increase in the number of properties susceptible to flooding countywide.
Seminole County's terrain, much of the undeveloped areas can be characterized by wooded areas
and extensive marshlands, plays a crucial role in its flood dynamics. These natural features often
receive overflow from major water bodies such as Lake Monroe, Lake Harney, Lake Jesup, and
the St. Johns River. The interconnectedness of these water systems means that flooding in one
area can have cascading effects elsewhere in the county.
3.6 The National Flood Insurance Program
In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which enables property
owners in participating communities to purchase insurance from the federal government against
losses due to flooding. The program is designed as an alternative to disaster assistance.
Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local governments and the NFIP that
the local government will adopt and enforce a floodplain management ordinance to reduce future
flood risks to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas, while the federal government will
make flood insurance available within the community.
More properties are insured for flood damages under NFIP in Florida than in any other state.
Seminole County participates in the NFIP, which means that NFIP flood insurance is available to
residents living anywhere in the unincorporated area. According to the NFIP, in unincorporated
Seminole County there were 4,031 NFIP flood insurance policies in effect, for a total of
$1,225,662,000 in insurance, as of March 31st, 2025.
Table 8: Seminole County NFIP Polices by Jurisdiction
Community Name
(Number)
Policies in
Force
Total Coverage Total Written
Premium + FPF
Total Annual
Payment
ALTAMONTE
SPRINGS
854 $189,679,200 $475,985 $590,074
CASSELBERRY 359 $91,031,400 $285,605 $348,144
LAKE MARY 225 $75,498,000 $148,183 $187,354
LONGWOOD 212 $69,536,000 $153,053 $193,563
OVIEDO 738 $240,483,400 $469,000 $578,704
SANFORD 635 $174,076,600 $431,793 $544,644
UNINCORPORATED 4,031 $1,255,662,000 $2,626,890 $3,244,406
WINTER SPRINGS 640 $191,974,600 $503,580 $610,458
3.7 National Flood Insurance Program Future Flood Risk
Flooding can occur along all waterways in Seminole County, including the St. Johns River, Lake
Monroe, Lake Harney Lake Jesup, and the confluence of the Little Econ and Econlockhatchee
rivers. Because there are numerous surface water bodies throughout the County, many locations
in the County may be subject to flooding. Areas identified as vulnerable to flooding are depicted
on FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which are developed through the NFIP and are
the official floodplain maps for Seminole County. Many of the County’s floodplain management
regulations are based on the floodplain limits shown in these maps. It is important to realize that
on an annual basis more than 30 percent of all flood losses occur outside any mapped floodplain.
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1 Year 10%4%2%1%
10 Years 65%34%18%10%
20 Years 88%56%33%18%
30 Years 96%71%45%26%
50 Years 99%87%64%39%
Time Period Flood Size
Chance of Flooding over a Period of Years
Table 9: Flood Recurrence Interval
FEMA’s flood zones represent the
areas of risk for flooding. These
zones are based on the statistical
risk of future flooding, which is
extrapolated from historical records
to determine the statistical potential
that storms and floods of a certain
magnitude will recur. Such events
are measured by their “recurrence interval,” i.e., a 10-year storm or a 50-year flood. A 10-year
storm means that there is a 1 in 10 chance, or 10% chance, of that storm occurring in any given
year. A 50-year flood has a 1 in 50 chance, or 2% chance, of occurring in any given year.
Because these identifiers are based on statistics, such a flood could occur twice in one year, or
could not occur at all over the course of 100 years.
The map below shows flood zone areas within Seminole County. Areas marked as Zone A have
a 1% annual chance of flooding, which translates to a 26% chance of flooding over the life of a
30-year mortgage. This area is the base flood for Seminole County. Detailed analyses are not
performed for Zone A, thus flooding depths and base flood elevations are not shown for Zone A
areas. Zone AE areas have a 1% annual chance of flooding. These have been determined using
detailed methods, thus
base flood elevations –
the level to which flood
waters are expected to
rise – are available in
these areas. Zone AH
are areas subject to 1%
annual chance flooding,
usually as ponding, with
average depths between
one and three feet.
Areas in yellow have a
moderate flood hazard.
These are places
susceptible to a 0.2%
annual chance of flooding. Zone X shows areas where flood hazards are minimal and have a less
than 0.2% annual chance of flooding.
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Figure 12: FEMA Flood Zones in Seminole County
Source: Seminole County GIS
3.8 Flood Impacts
The impacts of floods affect people, buildings, and the economy. These impacts are discussed in
this section.
3.8.1 Safety
Floods can be extremely dangerous, and even six inches of moving water can knock over a
person given a strong current. A car will float in less than two feet of moving water and can be
swept downstream into deeper waters. This is one reason floods kill more people trapped in
vehicles than anywhere else. During a flood, people can also suffer heart attacks or electrocution
due to electrical equipment short outs.
3.8.2 Health
While such problems are often not reported, three general types of health hazards accompany
floods. The first comes from the water itself. Floodwaters carry anything that was on the ground
that the upstream runoff picked up, including dirt, oil, animal waste, and lawn, farm and
industrial chemicals. Pastures and areas where cattle and hogs are kept, or their wastes are stored
can contribute polluted waters to the receiving streams.
Floodwaters also saturate the ground, which leads to infiltration into sanitary sewer lines. When
wastewater treatment plants are flooded, there is nowhere for the sewage to flow. Infiltration and
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 46
lack of treatment can lead to overloaded sewer lines that can back up into low-lying areas and
homes. Even when it is diluted by flood waters, raw sewage can be a breeding ground for
bacteria such as E.coli and other disease-causing agents. If a water system loses pressure, a boil
water order may be issued to protect people and animals from contaminated water.
The second type of health problem arises after most of the water has gone. Stagnant pools can
become breeding grounds for mosquitoes, and wet areas of a building that have not been
properly cleaned breed mold and mildew. A building that is not thoroughly cleaned becomes a
health hazard, especially for small children and elderly individuals.
Another health hazard occurs when heating ducts in a forced air system are not properly cleaned
after inundation. When the furnace or air conditioner is turned on, the sediments left in the ducts
are circulated throughout the building and breathed in by the occupants.
The third problem is the long-term psychological impact of having been through a flood and
seeing one’s home damaged and irreplaceable keepsakes destroyed. The cost and labor needed to
repair a flood-damaged home puts a severe strain on people, especially the unprepared and
uninsured. There is also a long-term problem for those who know that their homes can be
flooded again. The resulting stress on floodplain residents takes its toll in the form of aggravated
physical and mental health problems.
3.8.3 Evacuation of Residents and Visitors
A key evacuation and safety concern is when roads and bridges go under water. Generally, the
larger the road, the less likely it is to flood, but this is not always the case. In addition, a bridge
does not have to be under water to be damaged or to cut off an evacuation route. In some cases,
the bridge is high, but the access road may be flooded. In other cases, the bridge or culvert can be
washed out. This is especially dangerous if a person drives on a flooded road and assumes that
the bridge is still there.
Residents and visitors within Seminole County should be made aware of evacuation routes. It is
important that the County work with both public and private entities to ensure that everyone
knows which roads and thoroughfares are designated for evacuation. The Office of Emergency
Management may use the Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) to alert
residents and visitors to voluntary and mandatory evacuations. For local flood concerns, the opt-
in Alert Seminole system will be used to notify residents who are at risk of flooding. Below is a
map from the Florida Division of Emergency Management which indicates the designated
evacuation routes for Seminole County.
Storm Name Date(s) of Evacuation Order Executive Order Number
Hurricane Ian September 23, 2022 Executive Order 2022-002
Hurricane Milton October 6, 2024 Executive Order 2024-008
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Figure 13: Evacuation Routes for Seminole County
Source: floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone
3.8.4 Critical Facilities
Seminole County’s Floodplain Management Planning Committee utilizes a comprehensive
inventory of critical facilities located within the county, including essential public facilities,
transportation lifelines (roads and bridges), healthcare facilities, utilities, and infrastructure
essential to public safety and economic continuity. This list is
The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management maintains and annually updates a
countywide Critical infrastructure list to include facilities. This list is categorized according to
the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) 16 Critical Infrastructure Sectors and can be
delineated by jurisdictional boundaries.
3.8.5 Building Damage
In coordination with the Local Mitigation Resiliency Strategy (LMRS) and the Resiliency
Working Group, these facilities are often evaluated for vulnerabilities and potential mitigation
opportunities. If recommended for mitigation improvements, the project would then be scored
and placed on the county-wide LMRS Project Priority List. Special emphasis is placed on critical
facilities that must remain operational during flood events, such as emergency shelters, hospitals,
and utility control centers
Floods can cause severe damage to buildings, which can be costly to repair. Although flood
insurance can help pay for repairs to buildings damaged by floods, not all property owners obtain
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insurance. Moreover, preventing damage to buildings is less costly, less disruptive, and less
dangerous than sustaining damage.
In a few situations, deep or fast-moving waters will push a building off its foundation, but this is
rare. More frequently, structural damage is caused by the weight of standing water, known as
“hydrostatic pressure.” Basement walls and floors are particularly susceptible to damage by
hydrostatic pressure. Not only is the water acting on basement walls deeper, but a basement is
also subject to the combined weight of water and saturated earth. In addition, water in the
ground underneath a flooded building will seek its own level, resulting in uplift forces that can
break a concrete basement floor.
The most common type of property damage inflicted by a flood is soaking. When soaked, many
materials change their composition or shape. Wet wood will swell and, if dried too quickly, will
crack, split or warp. Plywood can fall apart. Drywall will fall apart if it is bumped before it dries.
The longer these materials remain wet, the more moisture, sediment and pollutants they will
absorb.
Soaking can cause extensive damage to household goods. Wooden furniture may become so
badly warped that it cannot be used. Other furnishings, such as upholstery, carpeting, mattresses,
and books, are usually not worth drying out and restoring. Electrical appliances and gasoline
engines will not work safely until they are professionally cleaned and dried. While a building
may appear sound and unharmed after a flood, the water may have caused a lot of damage. To
properly clean a flooded building, the walls and floors should be stripped, cleaned and allowed to
dry before being recovered. This can take weeks and is a costly process.
Flood insurance claims figures do not include those items that are not covered by a flood
insurance policy, like cars and landscaping, or the value of family heirlooms. They also do not
include damages to uninsured or underinsured properties.
Table 10 below shows the appraised value of all buildings in unincorporated Seminole County
by FEMA flood zone. All the buildings in these zones are at risk of flood damage.
Table 10: Appraised Value of Buildings in Unincorporated Seminole County by Flood
Zone
Source: Seminole County GIS
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3.8.6 Economic Impacts
Although repairing structural flood damages can be costly, they can also have economic impacts
beyond building repairs. Floods can close down businesses for days, weeks, or longer.
Businesses can lose their inventories, customers are unable to reach them, and employees are
often unable to work. Below is a table which indicates the largest employers in Seminole
County which make up much of the tax base.
Table 11: Seminole County Major Employers
EMPLOYER CITY ZIP NAICS 2 DIGIT
GROUP
EMPLOYMENT
(Rounded)
AdventHealth Altamonte Springs 32701
Health Care and Social
Assistance
6,000
Orlando Health Longwood 32750
Health Care and Social
Assistance
3,000
Deloitte Consulting Lake Mary 32746
Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services
2,000
JPMorgan Chase Bank N.A. Heathrow 32746 Finance and Insurance
2,000
HCA Florida Sanford 32771
Health Care and Social
Assistance
2,000
Mitsubishi Power Systems
Americas Lake Mary 32746
Other Services (except
Public Administration)
1,000
Verizon Corporate Resources
Group Heathrow 32746 Information
1,000
Paylocity Corporation Lake Mary 32746
Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services
1,000
BNY Mellon Bank / Pershing Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
1,200
Liberty Mutual Insurance
Company Heathrow 32746 Finance and Insurance
1,000
Concentrix Lake Mary
32746
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
1,000
Synchrony Bank / GE Capital Altamonte Springs 32714 Finance and Insurance
1,000
HF Management Services Lake Mary
32746
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
1,000
Lewis Tree Service Oviedo
32765
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
900
Sedgwick Claims
Management Services Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
900
American Automobile
Association (AAA) Heathrow 32746 Finance and Insurance
800
United Parcel Service (UPS) Altamonte Springs 32750
Transportation and
Warehousing
700
Brasfield & Gorrie Lake Mary 32746 Construction
700
Cardworks Servicing Lake Mary
32746
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
700
Tri-City Electrical
Contractors Altamonte Springs 32714 Construction
700
Charter Communications Lake Mary 32746 Information
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 50
700
Wharton-Smith Sanford 32771 Construction
600
Allegiant Air Sanford 32773
Transportation and
Warehousing
600
Hartford Fire Insurance
Company Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
600
Frontline Insurance Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
500
Ramco Protective of Orlando Altamonte Springs
32701
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
500
Universal Forming Oviedo 32765 Construction
500
BioPlus Altamonte Springs 32701 Retail Trade
500
Veritas Technologies Heathrow 32746 Wholesale Trade
500
Continental Casualty
Company Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
400
Centralsquare Technologies Lake Mary 32746 Information
400
Dynafire Casselberry
32707
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
400
Alorica Lake Mary
32746
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
400
Insurance Office of America
(IOA) Longwood 32750 Finance and Insurance
400
American Automobile
Association (AAA) Heathrow 32746
Other Services (except
Public Administration)
400
Florida Cleaning Systems Altamonte Springs
32714
Administrative and Support
and Waste Management and
Remediation Services
400
Southern Development &
Construction Oviedo 32765 Construction
400
Parallon Revenue Cycle
Services / Medicredit Casselberry 32707
Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services
400
SAP America Lake Mary 32746 Wholesale Trade
400
Comprehensive Energy
Services Longwood 32750 Construction
400
The Briar Team Sanford 32771 Construction
300
Jon M Hall Company Sanford 32771 Construction
300
Online Labels Group Sanford 32773 Manufacturing
300
Tijuana Flats Restaurants Altamonte Springs 32714
Management of Companies
and Enterprises
300
Orlando Sanford International Sanford 32773
Transportation and
Warehousing
300
Harper Limbach Company Lake Mary 32746 Construction
300
Finastra USA Corporation Lake Mary 32746
Professional, Scientific, and
Technical Services
300
The Mortgage Firm Altamonte Springs 32714 Finance and Insurance
300
Kroger Specialty Pharmacy Lake Mary 32746 Retail Trade
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Source: Seminole County Economic Development
According to the 2022 American Community Survey, Seminole County has approximately
246,000 individuals in its civilian labor force. The most common occupational groups among
residents are Office and Administrative Support Occupations (approx. 24,900 workers), Sales
and Related Occupations (approx. 20,800 workers), and Food Preparation and Serving-Related
Occupations (approx. 22,100 workers). Other significant employment sectors include Business
and Financial Operations, Management, and Educational Services, all of which contribute to the
economic resilience of the County.
Given the county’s exposure to flood hazards, economic impacts from flooding pose a
considerable risk to its workforce and key employment sectors. Many of these occupations,
especially in retail, food service, education, and healthcare, are dependent on fixed infrastructure
and physical access, both of which can be severely disrupted during flood events. Prolonged
business closures or service interruptions from flooding—particularly in commercial corridors
adjacent to flood-prone areas such as those near Lake Monroe, Lake Jesup, and the St. Johns
River—can result in both immediate income losses and longer-term economic displacement for
residents.
As part of Seminole County’s Floodplain Management Plan (FMP) and the Community Rating
System (CRS) Activity 510, understanding the spatial relationship between employment centers
and high-risk flood zones supports strategic planning for economic continuity, infrastructure
resilience, and equitable recovery strategies. Flood-related economic analyses help identify
vulnerable industries, prioritize infrastructure investments, and guide policy decisions that
protect both jobs and tax revenue. These insights directly support CRS credit under Element 2.6,
which encourages the inclusion of economic disruption in flood risk assessments.
The table below indicates the taxation value in Unincorporated Seminole County from 2005
through 2024 according to the County Property Appraiser.
300
Central Homes Longwood 32750 Construction
300
Turningpoint Healthcare
Solutions Lake Mary 32746 Finance and Insurance
300
Strada Services Sanford 32771 Construction
400
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Table 12: Seminole County Residential vs Commercial Real Property Taxable Values
Seminole County holds the 6th highest taxable value in Florida based on value per square mile.
Each square mile, on an average, in Seminole County contains $156,068,613 of taxable value.
Taxable values for each municipality can be found in their respective jurisdictional profile
appendices.
3.8.7 Repetitive Loss Properties
A repetitive loss property is a property that has experienced repeated flooding that caused
financial losses. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is continually faced with the
challenge of balancing the financial soundness of the program with the competing expectations
of keeping premiums affordable. Repetitive loss properties are one of the largest obstacles to
achieving financial soundness.
A repetitive loss property is defined as any insurable building for which two or more claims of
more than $1,000 were paid by the NFIP within any rolling 10-year period since 1978. Two of
the claims paid must be more than 10 days apart but, within 10 years of each other. A repetitive
loss property may or may not be currently insured by the NFIP.
Severe Repetitive Loss properties consist of any NFIP-insured residential properties that have
met at least 1 of the following paid flood loss criteria since 1978, regardless of ownership: four
or more separate claim payments of more than $5,000 each, or two or more separate claim
payments where the total of the payments exceeds the current value of the property.
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Repetitive loss properties are the biggest draw on the National Flood Insurance Fund. Repetitive
loss properties are not only costly; they also disrupt and threaten residents’ lives. These
properties may be sponsored by state or local government programs that mitigate the flood losses
or provide information on how to mitigate flood losses through such measures as elevating
buildings above the level of the base flood, demolishing buildings, removing buildings from the
Special Flood Hazard Area, or local drainage improvement projects.
As of 2025, in unincorporated Seminole County, there are eighty (80) repetitive loss properties.
Three (3) properties were previously designated as repetitive losses but have been removed from
the list after being mitigated. $3,189,486 of building and contents damage has been incurred in
total at these repetitive loss properties, with $11,667,225.11 of the damage having occurred on
the unmitigated properties. A detailed analyses of each repetitive loss area is recommended to
further assess the problem within each specific area of concern and provide recommendations for
solutions.
The repetitive loss areas in Seminole County are shown in Figure 16 below. The repetitive loss
areas may contain multiple repetitive loss properties, or a single repetitive loss property. Due to
privacy restrictions, the individual properties that received the losses are not identified on the
maps. Detailed areas of repetitive loss are shown in the following figures.
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Figure 14: Seminole County Repetitive Loss Property Areas
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Figure 15: Repetitive Loss Area 1
Figure 16: Repetitive Loss Areas 2 & 3
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Figure 17: Repetitive Loss Areas 4, 5, & 6
Figure 18: Repetitive Loss Area 7
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Figure 19: Repetitive Loss Area 8
Figure 20: Repetitive Loss Area 9
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Figure 21: Repetitive Loss Area 10
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Figure 22: Repetitive Loss Area 11
Figure 23: Repetitive Loss Area 12, 13, & 14
Figure 24: Repetitive Loss Area 15 &16
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Figure 25: Repetitive Loss Area 17 & 18
Figure 26: Repetitive Loss Area 19
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Wetlands at the Lake Jesup Wilderness Area in Seminole
County
3.9 Flood Warning Systems
Seminole County residents can sign up for the Alert Seminole Emergency Notification System,
which provides timely alerts in the event of emergencies, including those requiring evacuation.
Residents can register for this system by visiting the County’s preparedness website at
www.prepareseminole.org or by calling the Seminole County Office of Emergency Management
at 407-665-5102. Additionally, residents can stay informed by tuning into a NOAA Weather
Radio, particularly during hurricane season, or by calling the Citizen’s Information Hotline at
407-665-0000.
Other agencies also provide vital flood-related notifications:
The National Weather Service (NWS) issues Flood Watches, Warnings, and Advisories, which
are broadcast through NOAA Weather Radio, the Emergency Alert System (EAS), and Wireless
Emergency Alerts (WEA) on mobile devices.
FEMA’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) allows for the rapid
dissemination of flood alerts through various national and local channels.
3.10 Natural and Beneficial Areas
In their natural, undeveloped state,
floodplains play an important role in
flooding. They allow flood waters to
spread over a large area, reducing
flood velocities and providing flood
storage to reduce peak flows
downstream. Natural floodplains
reduce wind, and wave impacts, and
their vegetation stabilizes soils.
Natural cover acts as a filter for runoff
and overbank flows, improving water
quality and minimizing the amount of
sediment transported downstream and
the impurities in that sediment.
Floodplains can be recharging areas
for groundwater and reduce the
frequency and duration of low flows of surface water. They provide habitat for diverse species of
plants and animals, some of which cannot live in other habitats. Floodplains are particularly
important as breeding and feeding grounds. Natural floodplains also moderate water temperature,
reducing potential harm to aquatic plants and animals.
Seminole County preserves and manages several wilderness areas to protect biodiversity of
species, wildlife corridors, and water resources while offering passive recreation areas for
Seminole County residents. Through a voter approved referendum in 1990, a $20 million bond
was established, creating the Seminole County Natural Lands Program. The primary purpose of
this program is to systematically assess, rank and purchase environmentally significant lands
throughout the County. These lands are purchased to preserve or restore their important
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ecological functions as well as to provide sites for passive, resource-based recreational activities.
Since the program’s inception, Seminole County has purchased just over 6,600 acres. Many of
the natural land areas are located within the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) and provide
natural and beneficial functions of a natural floodplain. Several of these sites have been opened
for public access, as shown in Figure 29 on the next page.
The Seminole Forever Land Acquisition Program aims to protect and conserve lands by
identifying and acquiring properties that
conserve green space, provide passive
recreational opportunities, and protect water
resources and natural habitats. The initiative
is funded by the County’s General Fund and
may include partnerships with local cities
and nonprofits or other alternative funding
sources. Seminole Forever does not require
an additional tax on residents.
Through the Seminole Forever program, the
County commits to purchasing lands to
protect natural communities, including
wetlands and forestlands, and providing
green space in both rural and urban areas.
These lands may offer passive recreation amenities
such as pavilions, restrooms, and playgrounds.
Wekiva River in Seminole County
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3.11 References
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). (n.d.). What is a flood? U.S. Geological Survey Water Science
School. Retrieved from https://www.usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-
school/science/floods-and-flooding
Seminole County Office of Emergency Management. (2025). Local Mitigation and Resiliency
Strategy (LMRS) for Seminole County and its Municipalities, 2025–2030. Seminole County
Government.
Seminole County Planning Division. (2023). Seminole County Comprehensive Plan As
Amended through March 26, 2024: 2023–2028 Update. Seminole County Government.
BestPlaces.net. (2025). Seminole County, Florida Climate Data and Statistics. Retrieved from
https://www.bestplaces.net/climate/county/fl/seminole
U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). American Community Survey, 2018–2022 5-Year Estimates.
Retrieved from https://data.census.gov
Florida Division of Emergency Management. (n.d.). Know Your Zone – Evacuation Zones and
Figure 27: Wilderness Area Open to the Public in Seminole County
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Storm Surge Maps. Retrieved from https://www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone
Seminole County Property Appraiser’s Office. (2024). 2024 Tax Roll Data. Seminole County
Government.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). (n.d.). Flood Insurance Claims Records for
Seminole County, Florida. Data retrieved via NFIP records.
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Centers for
Environmental Information. (n.d.). NOAA’s National Environmental Satellite, Data, and
Information Service (NESDIS). Retrieved from https://www.nesdis.noaa.gov
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Hurricane Center. (n.d.).
Historical Hurricane Tracks and Storm Data. Retrieved from https://www.nhc.noaa.gov
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4 Goals and Objectives
Chapter 3 documents the flood risk that threatens the unincorporated areas of Seminole County,
the vulnerability of structures, infrastructure, and critical facilities to floods, and the capacity the
County must reduce the flood hazard. The intent of Goal Setting is to identify areas where the
County’s existing capabilities (in terms of policies and programs) can be enhanced so that the
community’s overall vulnerability to flood hazards is reduced. Goals are also necessary to guide
the review of possible mitigation measures. At the same time, this plan needs to ensure that
recommended actions are consistent with what is appropriate for Seminole County. Mitigation
goals need to reflect community priorities and be consistent with other plans for the County.
4.1 Background
4.1.1 Seminole County Local Mitigation and Resiliency Strategy
The goals of this plan need to be consistent with and complement the goals of other planning
efforts. The primary planning document that this Floodplain Management Plan must
complement and be consistent with is the Seminole County Local Mitigation Strategy. This plan
will be adopted as an appendix to Seminole County Local Mitigation Strategy; therefore, the
goals in both planning documents should align and not conflict. The six goals of the Seminole
County Local Mitigation and Resiliency Strategy (LMRS)are:
• Goal 1: Local government shall make every reasonable effort to identify, develop,
implement, and reduce hazard vulnerability through effective mitigation programs.
• Goal 2: All sectors of the community will work together to create a disaster resistant
community.
• Goal 3: Reduce the vulnerability of critical infrastructures and public facilities from the
effects of all hazards.
• Goal 4: Strengthen continuity planning for local government, businesses and community
partners to avoid significant disruptions of services.
• Goal 5: Develop policies and regulation to support effective hazard mitigation
programming throughout the community.
• Goal 6: Encourage economic vitality of the community by providing business continuity
education, disaster planning, and diversifying employment opportunities.
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4.2 Goals
During the Goals and Objectives Floodplain Management Planning Committee Meeting on May
28th , 2025 the FMP Committee agreed upon five general goals for this planning effort. The
goals were refined and objectives in support of the goals were also added.
Goal 1: Reduce vulnerability and exposure to flood hazards in order to protect the lives, health,
safety, and property of Seminole County residents and guests.
Objective 1.1: Focus mitigation efforts on flooding resulting from heavy rainfall
which causes runoff, overbank, backwater, and stormwater issues to
keep the problem from getting worse
Objective 1.2: Implement regulatory measures to guide new development in areas
that are more likely to be exposed to the effects of flood damage
Objective 1.3: Preserve open space in Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) areas,
especially where there are sensitive natural areas and agricultural lands
Objective 1.4: Protect the environmental integrity of the natural water systems in
Seminole County by focusing on water quality and best management
practices
Objective 1.5: Continue to protect aquifers and environmentally sensitive lands from
encroachment of development by requiring buffers and other setbacks
mechanisms
Objective 1.6: Reduce stormwater runoff through adequate stormwater management,
flood control, on-site retention and best management practices to
mitigate impacts associated with incremental construction and
redevelopment projects
Goal 2: Enhance public education, information, and warning systems to improve safety and
communication for the protection of residents and visitors of Seminole County.
Objective 2.1: Leverage state and federal emergency management funding for
planning, training and equipment
Objective 2.2: Seek funding for the installation of stream and river gauges to help
provide increased flood warning capability
Objective 2.3: Monitor technological advancements and implement new technologies
where applicable to ensure reliable communications with residents and
guests
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Goal 3: Encourage property owners through education and outreach measures to protect their
homes and businesses from flood damage.
Objective 3.1: Empower residents to take proactive responsibility for future flood risk
protection and pursuit of mitigation efforts to their property.
Objective 3.2: Promote flood insurance as a property protection measure against
flood damage through multiple methods, including enhancements to
the county website to provide information on comprehensive flood
preparedness/protection and flood insurance
Objective 3.3: Educate property owners, including those with repetitive loss
properties, on mitigation opportunities to mitigate future flood risk.
Goal 4: Protect critical and cultural assets, public infrastructure, and businesses from flood
hazards and reduce the vulnerability of flood damage to these assets.
Objective 4.1: Seek County, Regional, State, Federal, and other funding support for
flood mitigation projects
Objective 4.2: Identify and implement flood mitigation measures or strategies as
necessary to protect critical infrastructure and facilities from flood
damage
Goal 5: Identify properties susceptible to flood damage and implement cost-effective and
affordable improvements, including those which reduce the number of repetitively damaged
structures.
Objective 5.1: Leverage mitigation funding opportunities to facilitate buyouts,
elevations and other mitigation efforts to alleviate flood risk
Objective 5.2: Target repetitive loss properties for implementation of mitigation
projects
Objective 5.3: Allow continued opportunities for members of the public to be part of
the planning process, including identifying areas susceptible to flooding
Objective 5.4: Acquire and leverage new technologies and data collection tools to
allow for better informed floodplain management, and flood mitigation
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5 Preventive Measures
Preventive measures are designed to keep a problem such as flooding from occurring or from
getting worse. The objective of preventive measures is to ensure that future development is not
exposed to damage and does not cause an increase in damage to other properties. Building,
zoning, planning and code enforcement offices usually administer preventive measures. Some
examples of types of preventive measures include:
• Building codes
• Planning and zoning
• Open space preservation
• Floodplain regulations
• Stormwater management
5.1 Building Codes
Building codes provide one of the best methods of
addressing flood hazards. When properly designed and
constructed according to code, the average building can
withstand many of the impacts of natural hazards.
Hazard protection standards for all new and improved
or repaired buildings can be incorporated into the local
building code. Building codes can ensure that the first
floors of new buildings are constructed to be higher
than the elevation of the 100-year flood (the flood that
is expected to have a one percent chance of occurring in
any given year). Building codes in Seminole County
also require that driveways are sloped to prevent flood
water from draining into a building.
Just as important as having code standards is the enforcement of the code. Adequate inspections
are needed during construction to ensure the builder understands the requirements and is
following them. Making sure a structure is properly anchored requires site inspections at each
step.
Seminole County’s Code of Ordinances adopts the Florida Building Code by reference, and the
State of Florida has some of the most stringent building codes in the nation. Nonetheless, during
planning meetings where the mitigation strategies were evaluated, the FMPC discussed possible
ways to strengthen Seminole County’s building codes. There is relatively no cost involved in
strengthening codes, but since the County adopts the Florida Building Code, the possibility of
exceeding current code requirements is extremely slim. Another possibility discussed was to
increase the freeboard requirement for buildings to be built higher than the current 1 ft. above the
base flood elevation.
Figure 28: Elevated Home
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5.1.1 Manufactured Homes
Manufactured or mobile homes are usually not
regulated by local building codes. They are built in
a factory and out of state, and they are shipped to a
site. They do have to meet construction standards
set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Development. All mobile homes constructed after
1976 must comply with HUD’s National
Manufactured Home Construction and Safety
Standards. These standards apply uniformly across
the country, and it is illegal for a local unit of
government to require additional construction
requirements. Local jurisdictions may regulate the location of these structures and their on-site
installation.
The 2022 Seminole County Disaster Housing Plan found that Seminole has 5,584
mobile/manufactured homes countywide. 4,791 manufactured homes are in commercial group
parks, numerous individual trailers are located in the north and east areas of the County. These
may become inaccessible after heavy rains due to the lack of paved roads and marshy land
composition and elevation. The NFIP allows communities to exempt mobile homes in existing
mobile home parks from some of the flood protection requirements. The CRS provides up to 50
points if the community does not use this exemption. Seminole County does not use this
exemption.
5.1.2 Local Implementation
Seminole County enforces the Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023), which is based on the
International Building Code (IBC) and adapted to address Florida’s specific conditions. The
County’s floodplain management ordinance requires that all development within Special Flood
Hazard Areas be designed and constructed to be reasonably safe from flooding. This includes
ensuring that new construction and substantial improvements are designed or retrofitted and
adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement during flood events.
New construction and substantial improvements must utilize methods and materials that
minimize flood damage and resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic forces. Additionally,
construction in Seminole County must adhere to the following stipulations
Residential: 1-foot above BFE (Base Flood Elevation).
Non-residential: 1-foot above BFE OR dry-floodproofed to 1-foot above BFE. Dry-
floodproofing must be certified by an architect or professional engineer.
CRS Credit
The CRS encourages strong building codes. It provides credit in two ways: points are awarded
based on the community’s BCEGS (Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule)
classification and points are awarded for adopting the International Code series. Seminole
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County’s BCEGS rating is Class 4 for residential and Class 3 for commercials. Seminole County
uses the 2023 Florida Building (8th Edition) Code adopted and effective statewide December 31,
2023.
The CRS also has a prerequisite for a community to attain a CRS Class 8 or better: the
community must have a BCEGS class of 6 or better. To attain a CRS Class 4 or better, the
community must have a BCEGS class of 5 or better.
5.2 Planning and Zoning
Building codes provide guidance on how to build in hazardous areas. Planning and zoning
activities direct development away from these areas, especially floodplains and wetlands. They
do this by designating land uses that are compatible with the natural conditions of lands prone to
flooding, such as open space or recreation. Planning and zoning activities can also provide
benefits simply by allowing developers more flexibility in arranging improvements on a parcel
of land through the planned development approach.
5.2.1 Comprehensive Plans
These plans are the primary tools used by communities to address future development. They can
reduce future flood-related damage by indicating open space or low-density development within
floodplains and other hazardous areas. Unfortunately, natural hazards are not always emphasized
or considered in specific land use recommendations.
Generally, a plan has limited authority. It reflects what the community would like to see happen.
Its utility is that it guides other local measures, such as capital improvement programs, zoning
ordinances, and subdivision regulations.
5.2.2 Zoning Regulations
A zoning ordinance regulates
development by dividing a
community into zones and
setting development criteria for
each zone. Zoning codes are
considered the primary tool to
implement a comprehensive
plan’s guidelines for how land
should be developed. Zoning
ordinances can limit
development in hazardous areas,
such as reserving floodplain
zones for agricultural uses.
Often, developers will produce a
standard grid layout. The
ordinance and the community
can allow flexibility in lot sizes
and location so developers can
avoid hazardous areas.
Figure 29: Planned Unit Developments
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One way to encourage such flexibility is to use a planned unit development (PUD) approach.
This approach allows developers to incorporate flood hazard mitigation measures into projects.
Open space or floodplain preservation can be facilitated as site design standards and land use
densities can be adjusted to fit the property’s specific characteristics, as shown in Figure 31.
5.2.3 Capital Improvement Plans
A capital improvement plan will guide a community’s major public expenditures for a five- to
20-year period. Capital expenditures may include acquisition of open space within the hazardous
areas, extension of public services into hazardous areas, or retrofitting existing public structures
to withstand a hazard. Seminole County’s Capital Improvement Projects are tracked publicly
online through an interactive map provided through ArcGIS. This map and associated project list
can be found posted on the Seminole county government website.
5.2.4 Local Implementation
The Seminole County Comprehensive Plan includes conservation goals to address the long-range
implementation of programs aimed at meeting environmental regulations and preserving the
County’s natural amenities. Seminole County uses a multi-faceted system to direct incompatible
land uses away from wetlands. To date, this system has managed to preserve most of the wetland
acreage in the urban area. There are three primary methods by which the County directs
incompatible land uses away from wetlands, and several secondary methods. The primary
methods are:
1. Identification of environmentally sensitive lands. These lands are to be preserved
during the development process.
2. Land acquisition. Seminole County also protects wetlands through land acquisition via
the County’s Natural Lands Program. In combination with the efforts of the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the St.
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Johns River Water Management District, over 18,000 acres of the County’s 41,000 acres
of wetlands are in public ownership. This is roughly 44% of County lands.
3. Special areas. The County and the State have designated areas for special consideration
to protect wetlands, including the Wekiva River Protection Area, the Econlockhatchee
River Protection Zone, and the East Rural Area. These three areas make up roughly 75
percent of the County’s unincorporated area. Development within these areas is managed
and regulated to protect natural resources and maintain their rural character.
The secondary method of directing incompatible uses away from wetlands are through the
implementation and execution of the Comprehensive Plan’s Future Land Use designations and
Seminole County’s Land Development Code.
1. Special Techniques. For example, allowing clustering of development, or planned
development, in exchange for preserving open areas which protects natural resources
from development.
2. Environmentally Sensitive Land Overlay. Seminole County maintains an
Environmentally Sensitive Lands Overlay Area, as defined in the Comprehensive Plan.
The Environmentally Sensitive Lands Overlay Area includes any areas flooded during a
100-year flood event or identified by NFIP as Zone A or Zone V, as well as wetlands as
defined by the St. Johns River Water Management District. This designation is used to
limit permitted uses on wetland properties and direct development away from
environmentally sensitive lands.
3. The Urban/Rural Boundary. This boundary forms the foundation for both wetland
regulation and for the land uses that are assigned throughout the County. Having
established that the East Rural Area contains a high-quality mosaic of valuable wetland
and upland systems, the County has adopted a limited number of land use designations of
very low density in the Rural Area to protect these resources.
5.2.5 CRS Credit
The CRS provides flood insurance discounts to those communities that implement various
floodplain management activities that meet certain criteria. Comparing local activities to those
national criteria helps determine if local activities should be improved.
Up to 100 points are provided for regulations that encourage developers to preserve floodplains
or other hazardous areas from development. There is no credit for a plan, only for the
enforceable regulations that are adopted pursuant to a plan. Up to 600 points are provided for
setting aside floodplains for low density zoning, such as five acre lots or conservation.
5.3 Open Space Preservation
Keeping the floodplain and other hazardous areas open and free from development is the best
approach to preventing damage to new developments. Open space can be maintained in
agricultural use or can serve as parks, greenway corridors and golf courses.
Comprehensive and capital improvement plans should identify areas to be preserved by
acquisition and other means, such as purchasing an easement. With an easement, the owner is
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free to develop and use private property, but property taxes are reduced or a payment is made to
the owner if the owner agrees to not build on the part set aside in the easement.
Although there are some federal programs that can help acquire or preserve open lands, open
space lands and easements do not always have to be purchased. Developers can be encouraged to
dedicate park land and required to dedicate easements for drainage and maintenance purposes.
These are usually linear areas along property lines or channels. Maintenance easements also can
be donated by streamside property owners in return for a community maintenance program.
5.3.1 Local Implementation
In 1990, the voters of Seminole County approved a $20 million bond which created the Seminole
County Natural Lands Program (NLP). The NLP established a systematic process to identify,
rank, and acquire environmentally significant lands throughout the County.
In 2000, a voter-approved referendum provided $25 million, allocating $20 million in support of
the County trails program and $5 million for additional natural lands preservation. These funds
were used to purchase land to protect and restore critical ecological functions and to provide sites
for passive, resource-based recreational activities. Since its inception, Seminole County has
acquired and currently manages more than 7,300 acres of land through the Natural Lands
Program.
Building upon this legacy of conservation, in 2023, the Seminole County Board of County
Commissioners formally launched the Seminole Forever Program, a dedicated land acquisition
and conservation funding initiative modeled after the state’s Florida Forever program. Seminole
Forever allocates at least $5 million annually to secure additional high-priority conservation
lands. The program emphasizes protection of flood-prone areas, wetlands, and wildlife corridors
that contribute to water quality, aquifer recharge, and flood hazard mitigation.
The County’s adoption of flood-prone and wetland ordinances has been a critical step in
providing comprehensive protection of sensitive natural areas. The wetlands protection program
has established an extensive network of conserved lands under conservation easements.
Conservation easements are employed to safeguard post-development flood-prone and wetland
areas. These easements, which blanket the areas of concern, are granted to Seminole County,
state or federal agencies, or some combination thereof. They permanently limit future
encroachment or development and ensure long-term protection of flood-prone and wetland
resources. Conservation easements are required for all developments—other than single-family
residences—that include post-development flood-prone or wetland areas within their site
boundaries and may be granted as specified in Section 35.101(a)–(c) of the Land Development
Code.
Land acquisition efforts by Seminole County, the Seminole Forever Program, and the State of
Florida, and the Florida Audubon Society have led to the conservation of major wetland systems
in the Econlockhatchee, Wekiva, St. Johns, and Lake Jesup Basins. Ongoing initiatives continue
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 74
to prioritize preservation of intact wetland systems and associated floodplain habitats in the rural
portions of the County. Preserved lands in Seminole County are shown in the figure below.
Florida Natural Areas Inventory: Florida Conservation Lands
Wilderness areas and trails created from these referendums
include the Black Bear, Black Hammock, Geneva, Chuluota,
Lake Proctor, Econ River, Lake Jesup, and Spring Hammock
Preserve. These environmental assets are open to the public for
environmental education and passive recreation. The County
designated these lands as “Preservation/Managed Lands” on the Future
Land Use Plan Map in 2008. Seminole County continues to manage
approximately 7,300 acres of Natural Lands acquired through these bond
referendum for the preservation of significant natural habitats, open
space areas and greenways.
In addition, the Comprehensive Plan states that the County shall include
in its Land Development Code neighborhood performance standards for
Figure 30: Preserved Lands in Seminole County
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“common, liked and usable open space for active and/or passive recreation, including
interconnected walkways, bikeways, trails and greenways” as well as “Preservation of onsite
natural lands.” The County’s Land Development Code requires that all new development, unless
otherwise specified within the Code, include a minimum amount of urban, suburban or rural
open space and that open space areas within a development be connected to each other. The
amount and type of required open space varies with the character of the proposed development
and surrounding land uses. For commercial developments, the open space ratio is a minimum of
25% of the parcel.
Seminole County’s conservation strategy is rooted in the recognition that protecting natural lands
is essential for sustaining ecological health, reducing flood risk, and supporting community
resilience. This strategy integrates land acquisition, regulatory protections, and collaborative
partnerships to achieve long-term stewardship of the County’s unique natural resources. Through
programs such as the Seminole County Natural Lands Program and Seminole Forever, the
County prioritizes the preservation of flood-prone areas, wetlands, and wildlife corridors that
perform critical functions—absorbing stormwater, maintaining water quality, recharging the
Floridan Aquifer, and buffering developed areas from flood hazards.
The Seminole County Conservation Strategy complements broader state and federal conservation
initiatives, aligning closely with the goals of the Florida Forever program and regional watershed
protection efforts. By strategically acquiring properties in the Econlockhatchee, Wekiva, St.
Johns, and Lake Jesup basins, the County is able to create interconnected conservation corridors
that enhance habitat connectivity, safeguard endangered species, and preserve the character of
rural landscapes. Conservation easements adopted land development regulations, and
interagency coordination further reinforce this approach by ensuring that acquired lands and
regulated floodplains remain protected in perpetuity.
This proactive conservation framework is an integral component of the County’s floodplain
management program. It directly advances mitigation objectives outlined in the Floodplain
Management Plan by reducing the exposure of people and property to flood hazards and
maintaining the natural floodplain functions that moderate flood flows. As Seminole County
continues to grow, the conservation strategy will remain central to balancing development
pressures with the need to protect the ecological systems that underpin community safety, quality
of life, and economic sustainability.
5.3.2 CRS Credit
Preserving flood prone areas as open space is one of the highest priorities of the Community
Rating System. Up to 1,450 points can be given for keeping land vacant through ownership or
regulations (Activity 420 – Open Space Preservation).
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5.4 Subdivision Regulations
Subdivision regulations govern how land is divided and establish construction standards for
infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, utilities, storm sewers, and drainage systems. When
applied effectively, these regulations can incorporate flood protection standards that mitigate
future flood risks. Regulations on subdivisions can be found on the Seminole County Website
under “Subdivision Application Procedure Summary”. Regulations include:
• Requiring final plats to delineate all Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs)
• Ensuring each buildable lot contains a site elevated above the base flood elevation (BFE)
• Limiting roadway depressions to no more than one foot below the adjacent BFE
• Final plats must show all lands below the 100-year floodplain elevation and/or wetlands,
which must be dedicated as conservation easements—either to Seminole County or, in
private subdivisions, to the homeowners' association
• Floodplain and wetland lines must be clearly delineated, and the name of the
environmental consultant who flagged these areas must be included on the plat
• Canals, Floodways and waterways (including location and width) must be shown on
subdivision plats
• Conservation easement language is required, specifying maintenance obligations,
restrictions on vegetation removal, and limited boardwalk or dock construction within
floodplain and wetland buffers
5.4.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s Land Development Code and Engineering Manual require that final
subdivision plats clearly depict the 100-year floodplain boundary, consistent with FEMA’s Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Additionally, plat review includes elevation and grading
assessments to ensure adequate drainage and flood hazard avoidance. Developers must
demonstrate that new lots will not be flood-prone or impede natural stormwater flow. These
subdivision requirements directly support compliance with CRS Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory
Standards) and help reduce exposure to repetitive flood losses.
5.5 Floodplain Regulations
Seminole County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), meeting or
exceeding the program’s minimum requirements for development, land subdivision, and
construction in flood hazard areas. The County enforces its Floodplain Management Ordinance
in accordance with FEMA’s 44 CFR §60 and the Florida Building Code, 8th Edition (2023),
which is based on the International Building Code (IBC) but modified for Florida-specific
conditions.
To qualify for Community Rating System (CRS) credit under Activity 410 (Floodplain Mapping)
and Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory Standards), Seminole County has adopted additional
floodplain management measures beyond NFIP minimums, including:
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Freeboard requirement: Residential and non-residential structures must be elevated at
least one foot above BFE
Floodproofing options for non-residential structures
Elevation certificates for new and substantially improved structures
Protection of critical facilities to a higher standard
5.5.1 Enforcement
To ensure that communities are meeting the NFIP standards, FEMA periodically conducts a
Community Assessment Visit. During this visit, the maps and ordinances are reviewed, permits
are checked, and issues are discussed with staff. Failure to meet all of the requirements can result
in one or more consequences:
• Reclassification under the Community Rating System to a higher class
• Probation, which entails a $50 surcharge on every flood insurance policy in the county, or
• Suspension from the NFIP. If a community is suspended, the following sanctions are
imposed:
o Flood insurance will not be available. No resident will be able to purchase a flood
insurance policy.
o Existing flood insurance policies will not be renewed.
o No direct federal grants or loans for development may be made in identified flood
hazard areas under programs administered by federal agencies, such as HUD, EPA,
and the Small Business Administration.
o Federal disaster assistance will not be provided to repair insurable buildings located
in identified flood hazard areas for damage caused by a flood.
o No federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees may be provided in identified flood
hazard areas. This includes policies written by FHA (Federal Housing
Administration), VA (Veterans Affairs), and others.
o Federally insured or regulated lending institutions, such as banks and credit unions,
must notify applicants seeking loans for insurable buildings in flood hazard areas that
there is a flood hazard, and the property is not eligible for federal disaster relief.
These sanctions can be severe for any community with a substantial number of buildings in the
floodplain. Most communities with a flood problem have joined the NFIP and are in full
compliance with their regulatory obligations.
One way to assure good administration and enforcement is to have Certified Floodplain
Managers on staff. The Association of State Floodplain Managers administers the national
Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM®) program. Certification involves a three-hour exam and a
requirement for continuing education each year. The exam covers the regulatory standards of the
National Flood Insurance Program as well as mapping, administration, enforcement and flood
hazard mitigation.
5.5.2 Minimum NFIP Regulatory Requirements
The NFIP is administered by FEMA. As a condition of making flood insurance available for
their residents, communities that participate in the NFIP agree to regulate new construction in the
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 78
area subject to inundation by the 100-year (base) flood. The floodplain subject to these
requirements is shown as an A or V Zone on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
There are five major floodplain regulatory requirements. Additional floodplain regulatory
requirements may be set by state and local laws.
1. Continue to enforce their adopted Floodplain Management Ordinance requirements, which
include regulating all new development and substantial improvements in Special Flood Hazard
Areas (SFHA).
2. Continue to maintain all records pertaining to floodplain development, which shall be
available for public inspection.
3. Continue to notify the public when there are proposed changes to the floodplain ordinance or
Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
4. Maintain the map and Letter of Map Change repositories.
5. Continue to promote Flood Insurance for all properties.
Communities are encouraged to adopt local ordinances that are more comprehensive or provide
more protection than the federal criteria. The NFIP’s Community Rating System provides
insurance premium credits to recognize the
additional flood protection benefit of higher
regulatory standards.
5.5.3 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s Floodplain Ordinance
meets all of the NFIP’s floodplain regulatory
requirements. The County’s Floodplain
Ordinance exceeds minimum NFIP standards
for a number of elements that are credited in
the CRS.
5.5.4 CRS Credit
There are many higher regulatory standards
that warrant CRS credit. These standards
include:
• Delineating a floodway, the area of
higher hazard near the channel. This
would allow development outside the
floodway (called the “floodplain
fringe”) without engineering studies
to determine their impact on others.
• Requiring all new construction to be elevated one or two feet above the base flood
elevation to provide an extra level of protection from waves and higher floods. This extra
protection is reflected in a distinct reduction in flood insurance rates.
• Having all developers (not just the larger ones) provide flood data where none are
available.
• Specifications to protect foundations from erosion, scour and settling.
Figure 31: BFE Examples
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 79
• Prohibiting critical facilities from all or parts of the floodplain.
• Prohibiting hazardous materials.
• Requiring buffers adjacent to streams or natural areas.
• Restrictions on use of enclosures below elevated buildings.
• Flood storage lost due to filling and construction must be compensated for by removal of
an equal volume of storage.
• The CRS also provides credit for having trained staff and a higher credit if the staff
members are Certified Floodplain Managers.
It should be noted that one of the prerequisites for participation in the CRS is that the community
be in full compliance with the minimum requirements of the NFIP. A community with a number
of “potential violations” risks being removed from the CRS entirely.
Seminole County’s Floodplain Ordinance requires that residential construction is built with the
lowest floor no lower than one foot above the base flood elevation, which is an extra requirement
beyond NFIP’s minimum requirements. An additional requirement beyond the minimum for
Seminole County is that the ordinance sets specific restrictions on the use of enclosures below
elevated buildings.
The County has a total of 8 Certified Floodplain Managers on staff across the Development
Services Department, Emergency Management, and Public Works.
Buffers are required within wetlands to protect the natural and beneficial functions of the
floodplain.
Seminole County has a floodplain storage
capacity requirement that if fill is brought into a
development, an equal amount of fill must be
removed somewhere in the floodplain to maintain
the floodplain storage capacity.
5.6 Stormwater Management
Development in floodplains is development in
harm’s way. New construction in the floodplain
increases the amount of development exposed to
damage and can aggravate flooding on
neighboring properties. Development outside a
floodplain can also contribute to flooding
problems. Stormwater runoff is increased when
natural ground cover is replaced by urban
development (see Figure 34). Development in the
watershed that drains to a river can aggravate
downstream flooding, overload the community’s
drainage system, cause erosion, and impair water
quality.
Figure 32: Effect of Development on
Stormwater
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 80
There are three ways to prevent flooding problems caused by stormwater runoff:
1. Regulating development in the floodplain to ensure that it will be protected from flooding
and that it won’t divert floodwaters onto other properties.
2. Regulating all development to ensure that the post-development peak runoff will not be
greater than it was under pre-development conditions.
3. Set construction standards so buildings are protected from shallow water.
Many communities participate in the NFIP, which sets minimum requirements for regulating
development in the floodplain. The State of Florida has more stringent requirements than the
NFIP, including a requirement that all new buildings must be elevated to no lower than one foot
above the base flood elevation.
Stormwater runoff regulations require developers to build retention or detention basins to
minimize the increases in the runoff rate caused by impervious surfaces and new drainage
systems. Generally, each development must not let stormwater leave at a rate higher than what
existed under pre-development conditions.
Standards for drainage requirements are typical in subdivision regulations. Standards for storm
sewers, ditches, culverts, etc., are best set when an area is laid out and developed. Traditionally,
the national standard is to require that the local drainage system carry the 10-year storm.
Recently, communities are finding that older estimates of the 10-year storm understated the true
hazard, so they are addressing larger storms.
One problem with requiring the drainage system to carry water away is that runoff increases with
urban development. The runoff equivalent of a 10-year storm occurs more frequently, and from
smaller storms. The problem is just sent downstream onto someone else’s property.
Accordingly, modern subdivision regulations require new developments to ensure that the post-
development peak runoff will not be greater than it was under pre-development conditions. This
is usually done by constructing retention or detention basins to hold the runoff for a few hours or
days, until flows in the system have subsided and the downstream channels can accept the water
without flooding.
If the storm sewers or roadside ditches cannot handle heavy rain, the standard subdivision design
uses the streets to carry excess runoff. If the flows exceed the streets’ capacity, adjacent
properties will flood. Therefore, the third approach to protecting from stormwater flooding is to
make sure new buildings are elevated one or two feet above the street or above adjacent grade.
5.6.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s surface water management standards, outlined in the Public Works
Engineering Manual, require developers to manage runoff from new development sites so that
post-construction runoff volumes and peak flow rates do not exceed pre-development conditions.
This is typically accomplished through on-site retention, infiltration, or controlled release from
detention facilities, per the County’s established criteria (e.g., pre‑ vs. post‑development
hydrology)
The Engineering Manual tailors management strategies based on soil type and hydrologic
conditions:
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 81
• Pervious soils (A/B): Favor retention and infiltration BMPs to maximize groundwater
recharge.
• Impervious soils or high groundwater zones (C/D, A/D, B/D, C/D): Encourage the use of
detention basins to attenuate runoff peaks and remove sediments, while promoting natural
vegetation follow‑through for erosion control
The County strongly encourages Low Impact Development (LID) approaches—such as
vegetated swales, rain gardens, and permeable pavements—to reduce the reliance on structural
facilities and protect stormwater quality .
Overlay District Requirements
Within the Wekiva River Overlay, development and fill are prohibited in wetlands and the 100-
year floodplain, consistent with the Wekiva Parkway & Protection Act.
Within the Econlockhatchee River Overlay, projects must minimize vegetation removal, use
native species in landscaping, and ensure that BMP discharge rates for the mean annual (2.3-
year, 24-hour) and 25-year storm events do not exceed pre-development levels
Development within 550 feet of the Big or Little Econlockhatchee River channels is prohibited,
except for wetland restoration or passive recreational uses.
These provisions support robust floodplain protection and qualify for CRS Activity 430 (Higher
Regulatory Standards) credits, enhancing Seminole County’s community resilience.
Seminole County’s stormwater program is continually updated through the Comprehensive
Plan’s Drainage Element, which includes annual updates to watershed basin studies,
establishment of design storm level-of-service standards, and integration of stormwater needs
into the Capital Improvements Program. These ongoing efforts ensure SMP consistency, reduce
flood risk, and support compliance with state (SJRWMD) and federal (NPDES, TMDL)
requirements.
5.6.2 CRS Credit
CRS credit is provided for both higher regulatory standards in the floodplain and stormwater
management standards for new developments. Credit is based on how those standards exceed the
minimum NFIP requirements.
The Public Works Engineering Manual has the following provisions that would be recognized by
the CRS (in addition to provisions discussed in previous sections):
• Standards for retention and detention basis
• Requirements for erosion and sedimentation control
5.7 Conclusions
1. Installation of new mobile homes appears to be adequately administered to ensure proper tie
downs and flood protection.
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 82
2. Most of the comprehensive and land use plans address floodplains and the need to preserve
these hazardous areas from intensive development. However, most zoning ordinances do not
designate flood prone areas for any special type of land use.
3. Standards in subdivision regulations for public facilities should account for the hazards
present at the site. New building sites, streets, and water systems should facilitate access and
use by fire and emergency equipment.
4. A percentage of the county’s floodplain is open space in public ownership. Because some of
the floodplain is still undeveloped and not preserved as open space preventive measures can
have a great impact on future flood damages. There are more opportunities to preserve more
open space, especially when new developments are proposed.
5. The County’s floodplain development and stormwater management regulations exceed
minimum national and state standards in many areas and will be helpful in preventing flood
problems from increasing.
5.8 Recommendations
1. This recommendation is associated with FMP Action Plan Item 3. The County planning and
engineering staff should develop for example, subdivision ordinance language that requires
new infrastructure to have hazard mitigation provisions, such as:
a. Buried utility lines and
b. Storm shelters in new mobile home parks.
2. The County should use every opportunity to preserve floodplain areas as open space or other
uses compatible with the flooding hazard. Associated with FMP Action Plan Item 2
3. The County should consider increasing the freeboard requirement by six (6) inches, from one
(1) foot above the base flood elevation (BFE) to 1.5 ft. above BFE. FMP Action Plan Item 3.
4. The County should continue to enforce its existing regulations for development and mobile
homes and consider other higher standards to further protect the residents of Seminole
County. This recommendation is split between FMP Action Plan Items 3 and 7.
5.9 References
1. Community Rating System Coordinator’s Manual. FEMA, 2017 (with 2021 Addendum).
Available at: https://crsresources.org/manual
2. Design and Construction Guidance for Community Shelters. FEMA, 2000. Available at:
https://www.fema.gov
3. Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas. FEMA Technical Bulletin 85,
1985. Available at: https://www.fema.gov
4. Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (MHIRA). FEMA, 1997. Available at:
https://www.fema.gov
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5. Seminole County Code of Ordinances and Land Development Code. Seminole County
Government. Current version accessible at: https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov
6. Seminole County Code of Ordinances. Part 50 – Floodplain Management Ordinance,
§§ 50.44(2) and 50.27(c)(2). Municode Library. Accessed July 7, 2025.
https://library.municode.com/fl/seminole_county/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTI
ICOOR_CH50FLMA_ARTIIST
7. Seminole County Government. Seminole County Comprehensive Plan and Natural Lands
Program, including the Seminole Forever Program, 2023.
8. Subdivision Design in Flood Hazard Areas. American Planning Association and FEMA,
PAS Report 473, 1997. Available through APA Publications or FEMA Library.
9. Floodplain Management in Florida Quick Guide. Florida Division of Emergency
Management, 2024. Available at: https://www.floridadisaster.org/globalassets/quick-
guide-for-floodplain-management.pdf
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 84
6 Property Protection Measures
Property protection measures are used to modify buildings or property subject to damage.
Property protection measures fall under three approaches:
• Modify the site to keep the hazard from reaching the building,
• Modify the building so it can withstand the impacts of the hazard, and
• Insure the property to provide financial relief after the damage occurs.
Property protection measures are normally implemented by the property owner, although in
many cases technical and financial assistance can be provided by a government agency. These
are discussed later in this chapter.
6.1 Keeping the Hazard Away
Generally, natural hazards do not damage vacant areas. As noted earlier, the major impact of
hazards is to people and improved property. In some cases, properties can be modified so the
hazard does not reach the damage-prone improvements. For example, a berm can be built to
prevent floodwater from reaching a house.
6.1.1 Flooding
There are five common methods to keep a flood from reaching and damaging a building:
1. Erect a barrier between the building and the source of the flooding.
2. Move the building out of the flood prone area.
3. Elevate the building above the flood level.
4. Demolish the building.
5. Replace the building with a new one that is elevated above the flood level.
6.1.2 Barriers
A flood protection barrier can be built
of dirt or soil (a “berm”) or concrete
or steel (a “floodwall”). Careful
design is needed so as not to create
flooding or drainage problems on
neighboring properties. Depending on
how porous the ground is, if
floodwater stays up for more than an
hour or two, the design needs to
account for leaks, seepage of water
underneath, and rainwater that will fall
inside the perimeter. This is usually
done with a sump or drain to collect the internal groundwater and surface water and a pump and
pipe to pump the internal drainage over the barrier.
Figure 33: Flood Protection Barrier
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 85
Barriers can only be built so high. They can be overtopped by a flood higher than expected.
Barriers made of earth are susceptible to erosion from rain and floodwaters if not properly
sloped, covered with grass, and properly maintained. A berm can also settle over time, lowering
its protection level. A floodwall can crack, weaken, and lose its watertight seal. Therefore,
barriers need careful design and maintenance (and insurance on the building, in case of failure).
6.1.3 Relocation
Moving a building to higher ground is the surest and safest way to protect it from flooding.
While almost any building can be moved, the cost increases for heavier structures, such as those
with exterior brick and stone walls, and for large or irregularly shaped buildings. However,
experienced building movers can handle any job.
In areas subject to flash flooding, deep waters, or other high hazard, relocation is often the only
safe approach. Relocation is also preferred for large lots that include buildable areas outside the
floodplain or where the owner has a new flood-free lot (or portion of the existing lot) available.
6.1.4 Building Elevation
Raising a building above the flood level can be
almost as effective as relocating it out of the
floodplain. When properly elevated, water flows
under the structure, reducing or preventing
damage to the building and its contents. Elevation
is typically less costly and less disruptive to a
neighborhood than relocation, and it remains an
accepted and effective means of complying with
floodplain regulations that require new,
substantially improved, and substantially
damaged buildings to be elevated above the base flood elevation (BFE).
One consideration with elevation is that it may expose the structure to other hazards. If not
adequately braced and anchored, an elevated building may be more vulnerable to high winds
and, to a lesser extent, seismic forces. Accordingly, elevation projects must comply with current
wind-resistant standards in the Florida Building Code. Seminole County requires that new
construction and substantial improvements be elevated at least one foot above BFE, though
additional freeboard is recommended. The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management
continues to assist property owners in seeking federal and state mitigation funding to support
residential elevation projects.
Demolition
Some buildings, especially those that have
sustained severe or repeated flood damage, are not
economically feasible to protect. In these cases,
demolition may be the most appropriate solution.
Demolition removes the at-risk structure and
allows the site to be converted to public open space
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 86
or other uses that restore natural floodplain functions. This option is particularly suitable for
slab-on-grade or masonry buildings that are difficult to relocate, as well as for structures that are
unsafe or significantly deteriorated.
6.1.6 Mitigation Reconstruction
If a structure is in poor condition, elevating it may not be feasible or safe. In these cases, an
alternative approach known as mitigation reconstruction may be pursued. Under FEMA’s Hazard
Mitigation Assistance programs—mitigation reconstruction allows the demolition of an existing
structure and construction of a new, code-compliant building on the same site. This approach
provides long-term resilience by replacing vulnerable structures with buildings that meet or
exceed current flood and wind protection standards.
To qualify for federal funding for mitigation reconstruction, several requirements must be met:
• Acquisition or elevation must be demonstrated to be infeasible, based on program
criteria.
• The property owner must have owned the structure at the time of the event for which
funding is authorized.
• A benefit-cost analysis must show that the project is cost-effective.
• The new building must be elevated at least two feet above the base flood elevation or
comply with local freeboard requirements, whichever is higher.
• The new building must meet all applicable floodplain management, wind resistance, and
Florida Building Code standards.
• A deed restriction must be recorded requiring the owner to maintain a flood insurance
policy in perpetuity.
Federal funding may cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with no fixed dollar cap; the final
award is determined based on project scope and available program funding.
6.1.7 Local Implementation
Seminole County has had experience with acquisition, demolition, or elevation to protect
buildings from flooding. The County has received HMGP grants from FEMA to manage these
programs. The County is currently in the process of removing structures from the floodplain
through acquisition-demolition, mitigation reconstructions and elevations.
6.1.8 CRS Credit
The CRS provides the most credit points for acquisition and relocation, because this measure
permanently removes insurable buildings from the floodplain.
The CRS credits barriers and elevating existing buildings (Activity 530 – Flood Protection).
Elevating a building above the flood level will also reduce the flood insurance premiums on that
individual building. Because barriers are less secure than elevation, not as many points are
provided.
Higher scores are possible, but they are based on the number of buildings removed compared to
the number remaining in the floodplain.
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6.2 Retrofitting
An alternative to keeping the hazard away from a building is to modify or retrofit the site or
building to minimize or prevent damage. There are a variety of techniques to do this, as
described below.
6.2.1 Dry Floodproofing
Dry floodproofing entails making all areas below the flood protection level watertight. Walls are
coated with waterproofing compounds or plastic sheeting. Openings, such as doors, windows and
vents, are closed, either permanently, with removable shields, or with sandbags. Dry
floodproofing of new and existing
nonresidential buildings in the
regulatory floodplain is permitted
under state, FEMA and local
regulations. Dry floodproofing of
existing residential buildings in the
floodplain is also permitted as long as
the building is not substantially
damaged or being substantially
improved. Owners of buildings
located outside the regulatory
floodplain can always use dry
floodproofing techniques.
Dry floodproofing is only effective for shallow flooding, such as repetitive drainage problems. It
does not protect from the deep flooding along lakes and larger rivers caused by hurricanes or
other storms.
6.2.2 Wet Floodproofing
The alternative to dry floodproofing is wet floodproofing: water is let in and everything that
could be damaged by a flood is removed or elevated above the flood level. Structural
components below the flood level are replaced with materials that are not subject to water
damage. This is the approach used for the first floor of the elevated homes described in the
previous section.
For example, concrete block walls are used instead of wooden studs and gypsum wallboard. The
furnace, water heater and laundry facilities are permanently relocated to a higher floor. Where
the flooding is not deep, these appliances can be raised on blocks or platforms. This practice is
not generally used in central and southern Florida where most structures are slab on grade.
6.2.3 Local Implementation
It is likely that some properties in Seminole County have been retrofitted to protect them from
flooding. However, because these projects are often so small, they generally do not require a
building permit and there are no records of them.
Figure 34: Dry Floodproofing
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 88
Building Exposure Premium
In the Special Flood Hazard Area (AE Zone)$1,689
Pre-FIRM ("subsidized") rate
Post-FIRM (actuarial) rates
2 feet above the base flood elevation $440
1 foot above the base flood elevation $643
At the base flood elevation $1,167
1 foot below the base flood elevation $4,379
Outside the Special Flood Hazard Area $1,029
Premiums are for $150,000 in building coverage and
$75,000 in contents coverage for a one-story house with
no basement and a $500 deductible, using the October
2008 Flood Insurance Manual. Premiums include the 5%
Community Rating System discount. Premiums are higher
for local governments that do not participate in the CRS.
Figure 35: Example Flood Insurance
Premiums
6.2.4 CRS Credit
Credit for dry and wet floodproofing is provided under Activity 530 – Retrofitting. Because
these property protection measures are less secure than barriers and elevation, not as many points
are provided.
6.3 Insurance
Technically, insurance does not mitigate
damage caused by a natural hazard. However, it
does help the owner repair, rebuild, and
hopefully afford to incorporate some of the
other property protection measures in the
process. Insurance offers the advantage of
protecting the property, as long as the policy is
in force, without human intervention for the
measure to work.
6.3.1 Private Property
Although most homeowner’s insurance policies
do not cover a property for flood damage, an
owner can insure a building for damage by
surface flooding through the NFIP. Flood
insurance coverage is provided for buildings and
their contents damaged by a “general condition
of surface flooding” in the area.
Most people purchase flood insurance because it is required by the bank when they get a
mortgage or home improvement loan. Usually these policies just cover the building’s structure
and not the contents. Renters can buy contents coverage, even if the owner does not buy
structural coverage on the building. According to a 2023 Insurance Information Institute (Triple-
I) and Munich Re Consumer Survey, 22 percent of American homeowners reported being at risk
of flooding. Of those, 78 percent had flood insurance—35 percent through private insurers and
43 percent through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
6.3.2 Public Property
Governments can purchase commercial insurance policies. Larger local governments often self-
insure and absorb the cost of damage to one facility, but if many properties are exposed to
damage, self-insurance can drain the government’s budget. Communities cannot expect federal
disaster assistance to make up the difference after a flood.
Under Section 406(d) of the Stafford Act:
“If an eligible insurable facility damaged by flooding is located in a [mapped floodplain]
… and the facility is not covered (or is underinsured) by flood insurance on the date of
such flooding, FEMA is required to reduce Federal disaster assistance by the maximum
amount of insurance proceeds that would have been received had the buildings and
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 89
contents been fully covered under a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) standard
flood insurance policy. [Generally, the maximum amount of proceeds for a non-
residential property is $500,000.]
[Communities] Need to:
• Identify all insurable facilities, and the type and amount of coverage
(including deductibles and policy limits) for each. The anticipated insurance
proceeds will be deducted from the total eligible damages to the facilities.
• Identify all facilities that have previously received Federal disaster assistance
for which insurance was required. Determine if insurance has been
maintained. A failure to maintain the required insurance for the hazard that
caused the disaster will render ineligible for Public Assistance funding…
• [Communities] must obtain and maintain insurance to cover [their] facility –
buildings, equipment, contents and vehicles – for the hazard that caused the
damage in order to receive Public Assistance funding. Such coverage must, at
a minimum, be in the amount of the eligible project costs. FEMA will not
provide assistance for that facility in future disasters if the requirement to
purchase insurance is not met. – FEMA Response and Recovery Directorate
Policy No. 9580.3, August 23, 2000
In other words, the law expects public agencies to be fully insured as a condition of receiving
federal disaster assistance.
6.3.3 Local Implementation
More properties are insured for flood damages under NFIP in Florida than in any other state.
Seminole County participates in the NFIP, which means that NFIP flood insurance is available to
residents living anywhere in the unincorporated area. According to the NFIP, in unincorporated
Seminole County there were 4,031 NFIP flood insurance policies in effect, for a total of
$1,225,662,000 in insurance, as of March 31st, 2025.
Table 13: Flood Insurance Policies in Seminole County
Community Name
(Number)
Policies in
Force
Total Coverage Total Written
Premium +
FPF
Total Annual
Payment
ALTAMONTE
SPRINGS
854 $189,679,200 $475,985 $590,074
CASSELBERRY 359 $91,031,400 $285,605 $348,144
LAKE MARY 225 $75,498,000 $148,183 $187,354
LONGWOOD 212 $69,536,000 $153,053 $193,563
OVIEDO 738 $240,483,400 $469,000 $578,704
SANFORD 635 $174,076,600 $431,793 $544,644
UNINCORPORATED 4,031 $1,255,662,000 $2,626,890 $3,244,406
WINTER SPRINGS 640 $191,974,600 $503,580 $610,458
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 90
Table 14: Flood Insurance Policies by Occupancy in Seminole County
The number of flood insurance policies by FEMA flood zone is also available, as shown in
Tables 15 and 16, below.
Table 15: Flood Insurance Policies by Flood Zone
Pre-FIRM Post-FIRM Total
Zone Policies in
Force
Insurance in
Force
Policies in
Force
Insurance in
Force
Policies in
Force
Insurance in
Force
A Zones 438 $109,565,700 758 $200,711,500 1,196 $310,277,200
V Zones 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0
X Zones 635 $187,758,900 2,215 $704,865,000 2,850 $892,623,900
Table 16: Number and Value of Losses by Flood Zone
Pre-FIRM Post-FIRM Total
Zone Number of
Closed Paid
Losses
Value of
Closed Paid
Losses
Number of
Closed Paid
Losses
Value of
Closed Paid
Losses
Number of
Closed Paid
Losses
Value of
Closed Paid
Losses
A Zones 142 $3,259,941.30 168 $2,386,105.72 310 $5,646,047.02
V Zones 0 $0 0 $0 0 $0
X Zones 91 $1,392,710.91 109 $774,486.10 200 $2,167,197.01
6.3.4 CRS Credit
There is no credit for purchasing flood insurance, but the CRS does provide credit for local
public information programs that explain flood insurance to property owners. The CRS also
reduces the premiums for those people who do buy NFIP coverage.
6.4 The Government’s Role
Property protection measures are usually considered the responsibility of the property owner.
However, local governments should be involved in all strategies that can reduce flood losses,
especially acquisition and conversion of a site to public open space. There are various roles a
county or municipality can play in encouraging and supporting implementation of these
measures.
Occupancy Policies in
Force
Insurance in
Force
Number of
Closed Paid
Losses
Value of
Closed Paid
Losses
Single Family 3,820 $1,811,705 491 $7,235,605.06
2-4 Family 32 $7,962 2 $0
All Other Residential 147 $47,516 5 $0
Non-Residential 110 $238,698 22 $591,728.04
Total 4,109 $2,105,881 520 $7,827,333.10
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 91
6.4.1 Government Facilities
One of the first duties of a local government is to protect its own facilities. Fire stations, water
treatment plants and other critical facilities should be a high priority for retrofitting projects and
insurance coverage. Often public agencies discover after the disaster that their “all-hazard”
insurance policies do not cover the property for the type of damage incurred. Flood insurance is
even more important as a mitigation measure because of the Stafford Act provisions discussed
above. The county’s Resiliency Working Group has tracked the completion of wind protection
mitigation projects to 12 fire stations unitizing Hurricane Matthew HMGP funding. As of July
2025, Seminole county’s government departments have completed 66 mitigation projects using
local, state and federal funds totaling over 33.8 million dollars.
Responsible
Agency
Project title Mitigation
project type
Associate
d hazard
Project cost Funding
category
Seminole
County Public
Works
Oregon St and
Michigan Ave
Drainage Project
Drainage
Project
Flooding $775,500.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Seminole County
Alternate EOC
Equipment
Structure
Retrofit
All
Hazards
$1,231,500.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County Public
Works
Miller Road
Culvert
Drainage
Project
Flooding $944,834.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County Public
Works
Nolan Road
Channel
Drainage
Project
Flooding $1,204,055.00 HMGP -
Irma
Seminole
County Public
Works
Lincoln Heights
Flood Mitigation
Drainage
Project
Flooding $2,570,000.00 HMGP
Seminole
County Sheriff's
Office
PSB/EOC Wind
Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Storms
$46,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Facilities
PSB Wind
Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Storms
$20,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 12
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$49,598.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 14
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$23,818.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Fire Station 16 Wind Retrofit Severe $38,314.00 HMGP -
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 92
Safety Wind Protection Weather Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 22
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$36,398.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 23
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$12,890.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 27
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$38,670.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 34
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$36,396.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 25
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$36,000.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 36
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$0.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 41
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$0.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 42
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$0.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Station 43
Wind Protection
Wind Retrofit Severe
Weather
$36,000.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Works
Red Bug Lake
Park Storm
Damage
Mitigation
Mitigation
Reconstructio
n
Flooding $32,068.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
Lake Howell
Creek Erosion
Erosion
Control
Sinkhole /
Land
Subsidenc
e
$32,068.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County Public
Schools
Shelter Sites
Generator
Protection
Generator All
Hazards
$0.00 Other
Seminole Weather Radio Public All $0.00 Other
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 93
County Public
Safety
Distribution Information
and Warning
Hazards
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Public Education
Campaign -
Prepare
Seminole
Public
Information /
Education
All
Hazards
$5,000.00 Economic
Developm
ent Grant
Seminole
County Public
Safety
2656 Shad Lane
Flood Mitigation
Mitigation
Reconstructio
n
Flooding $325,500.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
540 Orange Blvd
Sanford Buyout
Aquisition /
Demolition
Flooding $253,832.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Electronic
Notification
System
Public
Information
and Warning
All
Hazards
$40,000.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Vegetation
Reduction
Torches
Wildfire
Mitigation
All
Hazards
$3,095.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
Mullet Lake
Stormwater
System
Floodproofing
(Non-
Elevation)
Flooding $2,127,034.00 HMGP -
Matthew
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Shutters -
Oviedo HS,
Lawton Chiles,
Hagerty HS,
Markham Woods
MS
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
All
Hazards
$831,004.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Schools
School Shelters
Solar Panel
Installation
Safe Room /
Shelter
All
Hazards
$0.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
Public Works
Admin. Building
Window
Protection
Structure
Retrofit
Severe
Weather
$355,168.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
School Shelters
Window
Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Weather
$523,203.00 HLMP
Seminole
County Public
Schools
SCPS
Transportation
Facilities Backup
Generator
Generator All
Hazards
$175,000.00 HMGP -
Matthew
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 94
Seminole
County Public
Safety
School Shelters
Generator,
Electrical
Engineering, and
Wind Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
All
Hazards
$440,000.00 HLMP
Seminole
County Public
Works
Oliver Street
Reconstruction/E
levation
Drainage
Project
Flooding $283,172.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Critical Facilities
(2) Mobile
Generators
Generator All
Hazards
$628,132.00 HMGP -
Irma
Seminole
County Public
Safety
School Shelters
Wind Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Storms
$717,181.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Public Buildings
Car Charging
Stations
Electrical All
Hazards
$45,504.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
Little Wekiva
River
Restoration
River
Restoration
Flooding $2,072,500.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Works
Little Wekiva
River Erosion
Mitigation
Erosion
Control
Sinkhole /
Land
Subsidenc
e
$283,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Volunteer
Program
SC Volunteer
Program Disaster
Plan
Public
Information /
Education
All
Hazards
$5,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
New Tribes
Pond Outfall
Drainage
Project
Flooding $67,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Longwood -
Lake Mary Road
Flood
Elimination
Drainage
Project
Flooding $95,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Lake Ann Lane Drainage
Project
Flooding $90,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Grade Control
Structure #5
Utility/Infrastr
ucture
Protection
Flooding $139,200.00 Local
Funding
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 95
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Lake Howell
Lane - Inundated
Floodproofing
(non-
elevation)
Flooding $105,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Brisson Ave
Cross Drain
Drainage
Project
Flooding $51,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
SR 436 (11-
0503C)
Drainage
Project
Flooding $245,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Regrade Ditch
North of First
Drive
Drainage
Project
Flooding $48,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Elder Creek
Flood
Elimination
Floodproofing
(non-
elevation)
Flooding $1,800,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Steel Covered
Bridge on Little
Wekiva
Structure
Retrofit
All
Hazards
$195,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Lockhart-Smith
Canal Flood
Gauges
Floodproofing
(Non-
Elevation)
Flooding $4,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Northwestern
Ave Bridge Area
Structure
Retrofit
All
Hazards
$588,084.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Flood
Conveyance
System
Improvements
Drainage
Project
Flooding $625,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Navy Canal
Flood
Attenuation
Floodproofing
(Non-
Elevation)
Flooding $1,200,000.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Eastbrook &
Wrenwood
Heights (Crane
Strand)
Drainage
Project
Flooding $7,540,200.00 Other
Seminole
County
Stormwater
Brisson Av Area
Flood Mitigation
Drainage
Project
Flooding $2,700,000.00 Local
Funding
Seminole
County Public
Winter Springs
High Wind
Abatement
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Weather
$340,000.00 HLMP
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 96
Schools Protection
Seminole
County Public
Schools
Lake Brantley
Wind Abatement
Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Weather
$310,000.00 HLMP
Seminole
County Public
Schools
Bentley Elem.
Wind Abatement
Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Weather
$100,000.00 HLMP
Seminole
County Public
Schools
Lawton Chiles
Middle Wind
Abatement
Protection
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Weather
$110,000.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Mitigation
Coordinator /
Grant Writer
Mitigation
Reconstructio
n
All
Hazards
$50,000.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Emergency
Shelters Shutters
Shelter
Retrofit Grant
Severe
Storms
$900,000.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Electronic
Notification
System / Reverse
9-1-1
Public
Information
and Warning
All
Hazards
$42,990.00 Other
Seminole
County Public
Safety
Fire Stations
Shutters
Structure
Retrofit
Severe
Storms
$250,000.00 HMGP
6.4.2 Public Information
Providing basic information to property owners is the first step in supporting property protection
measures. Owners need general information on what can be done. They need to see examples,
preferably from nearby. Public information activities that can promote and support property
protection are covered in Chapter 10.
6.4.3 Financial Assistance
Communities can help owners with financial assistance for a retrofitting project. Financial
assistance can range from full funding of a project to helping residents find money from other
programs. Some communities assume responsibility for sewer backups, street flooding, and other
problems that arise from an inadequate public sewer or public drainage system. Less expensive
community programs include low interest loans, forgivable low interest loans and rebates. A
forgivable loan is one that does not need to be repaid if the owner does not sell the house for a
specified period, such as five years. These approaches don’t fully fund the project, but they cost
the community less and they increase the owner’s commitment to the flood protection project.
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 97
Property Protection Rebates
The Village of South Holland, Illinois
received national recognition for its
rebate program to help property owners
fund retrofitting projects that protect
against surface and subsurface
flooding. If a project is approved,
installed and inspected, the Village will
reimburse the owner 25% of the cost
up to $2,500. Over 450 floodproofing
and sewer backup protection projects
have been completed under this
program. Perhaps not surprisingly,
contractors have become some of the
best agents to publicize this program.
Often, small amounts of money act as a catalyst to pique the owner’s interest to get a self-
protection project moving.
The more common outside funding sources are listed below. Unfortunately, the last three are
only available after a disaster, not before, when damage could be prevented. Following past
disaster declarations, FEMA and the Florida Division of Emergency Management have provided
advice on how to qualify and apply for these funds.
Pre-disaster funding sources:
• FEMA’s Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
grants (administered by the Florida Division
of Emergency Management)
• Community Development Block Grants
(administered by the Florida Division of
Housing and Community Development)
• The Florida Department of Environmental
Protection grant programs
• Conservation organizations, although
generally these organizations prefer to
purchase vacant land in natural areas, not
properties with buildings on them.
Post-disaster funding sources:
• Insurance claims
• NFIP’s Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC).
This provision increases flood insurance
claim payment (up to $30,000) to help pay for a flood protection project required by code
as a condition to rebuild the flooded building. It can also be used to help pay the non-
federal cost-share of an elevation project.
Post-disaster funding sources, federal disaster declaration needed
• FEMA’s disaster assistance (for public properties). However, the amount of assistance
will be reduced by the amount of flood insurance that the public agency should be
carrying on the property. (administered by the Florida Division of Emergency
Management)
• Small Business Administration disaster loans (for non-governmental properties)
• FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) (administered by the Florida
Division of Emergency Management)
6.4.4 Acquisition Agent
The community can be the focal point in an acquisition project. Most funding programs require a
local public agency to sponsor the project. The local government could process the funding
application, work with the owners, and provide some, or all, of the local share. In some cases, the
local government would be the ultimate owner of the property, but in other cases another public
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 98
agency, such as Florida State Parks, could assume ownership and the attendant maintenance
responsibilities.
6.4.5 Mandates
Mandates are considered a last resort if information and incentives are insufficient to convince a
property owner to take protective actions. An example of a retrofitting mandate is the
requirement that communities have to disconnect downspouts from the sanitary sewer line.
There is a mandate for improvements or repairs made to a building in the mapped floodplain. If
the project equals or exceeds 50% of the value of the original building, it is considered a
“substantial improvement.” The building must then be elevated or otherwise brought up to
current flood protection codes.
Another possible mandate is to require less expensive hazard protection steps as a condition of a
building permit. For example, many communities require upgraded electrical service as a
condition of a home improvement project. If a person were to apply for a permit for electrical
work, the community could require that the service box be moved above the base flood elevation
or the installation of a separate ground fault interrupter circuits in the basement.
6.4.6 Local Implementation
As discussed in Chapter 1, there are many critical facilities, most of which are not subject to
flooding and have no requirement for protection from flooding. Public building and critical
infrastructure which have completed mitigation projects would be found in 6.4.1.
The Office of Emergency Management assists homeowners with residential flood mitigation
projects such as HMGP Elevations, Mitigation reconstructions, or buyout / demolitions. After
Hurricane Ian in 2022, the Office of Emergency Management received authorization from the
Board of County Commission to pursue and submit 15 residential projects in 2023. The county
has assisted homeowners with buyouts and elevations in the past through the FEMA’s Flood
Mitigation Assistance Program. The Office of Emergency Management ensures continual long-
term maintenance and compliance with FEMA / NFIP with those homeowners and properties.
6.4.7 CRS Credit
Except for public information programs, the CRS does not provide credit for efforts to fund,
provide incentives, or mandate property protection measures. CRS credits are provided for the
actual projects after they are completed. However, to participate in CRS, a community must
certify that it has adequate flood insurance on all properties that have been required to be
insured. The minimum requirement is to ensure those properties in the mapped floodplain that
have received federal aid, as specified by the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973.
6.5 Repetitive Loss Properties and Analysis
Chapter 2 explains the criteria for designation of the County’s repetitive loss areas. These
properties deserve special attention because they are more prone to damage by natural hazards
than any other properties in the County. Further, protecting repetitive loss buildings is a priority
with FEMA and Florida Division of Emergency Management mitigation funding programs.
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 99
Seminole County requests data from the NFIP annually for repetitive loss property data. This
data is then generalized to repetitive loss areas within Seminole County.
As of 2025, in unincorporated Seminole County, there are eighty (80) repetitive loss properties.
Three (3) properties were previously designated as repetitive losses but have been removed from
the list after being mitigated. $3,189,486 of building and contents damage has been incurred in
total at these repetitive loss properties, with $11,667,225.11 of the damage having occurred on
the unmitigated properties. With a total incorporated Total Premium / Total Net Payment of
$29,356,436. A detailed analyses of each repetitive loss area is recommended to further assess
the problem within each specific area of concern and provide recommendations for solutions.
Flood insurance policies and paid amounts for repetitive loss properties in Seminole County are
shown below in Table 17.
Table 17: Flood Insurance for Repetitive Loss Properties
A Zones V Zones X Zones Total
RL Buildings 32 0 8 40
RL Losses 74 0 19 93
RL Total Payments $2,805,061.07 $0 $328,953.04 $3,134,014.11
Building Payments $2,433,122.49 $0 $248,446.62 $2,681,569.11
Contents Payments $371,938.58 $0 $80,506.42 $452,445.00
6.6 Conclusions
1. There are several ways to protect individual properties from damage by natural hazards. Each
funding opportunity is different and are notified on irregular and regular schedules. The
advantages and disadvantages of each funding opportunity should be examined for each
situation.
2. Property owners can implement some property protection measures at little cost, especially
for sites in areas of low hazards (e.g., shallow flooding, sewer backup, and thunderstorms).
For other measures, such as relocation and elevation, the owners require considerable
financial assistance to mitigate their flood risk.
3. Local government agencies can promote and support property protection measures through
several activities, ranging from public information to financial incentives to full funding.
Post-event messaging can be just as important as pre-event messaging. This is especially true
with HMGP, which becomes available and accessible for homeowner’s post-storm.
4. It is unlikely that most government properties, including critical facilities, have any special
measures to protect them from flooding.
5. Property protection measures can protect the most damage-prone buildings in the County:
repetitive loss properties.
6 Property Protection Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 100
6.7 Recommendations
1. Public education materials should be distributed to homeowners, explaining property
protection measures that can help owners reduce their exposure to damage by floods and the
various types of insurance that are available.
2. Because properties in floodplains will be damaged at some point, a special effort should be
made to provide information and advice to floodplain property owners. Special attention
should be given to repetitive loss and high hazard areas.
3. All property protection projects should be voluntary. Other than state and federally mandated
regulations, local incentives should be positive as much as possible, such as providing
financial assistance.
4. Seminole County should evaluate its own properties’ vulnerability. A priority should be
placed on determining critical facilities’ vulnerability to damage and whether public
properties are adequately insured.
5. Seminole County should protect its own publicly owned facilities with appropriate mitigation
measures.
6. Seminole County should establish cost sharing programs, such as rebates, to encourage low
cost (under $10,000) property protection measures on private property, for example:
• Surface and subsurface drainage improvements,
• Berms and regrading for shallow surface flooding, and
• Relocating heating and air conditioning units above the base flood elevation.
7. The County should seek state and federal funding support for higher cost measures, such as
elevation, relocation and acquisition of high priority properties. High priority properties are:
• Those properties in repetitive loss areas.
• Critical facilities in the floodway or subject to flood depths of more than two feet.
6.8 References
1. Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood Prone Residential Structures,
FEMA, FEMA-259, 2012.
2. Flood Insurance Agent’s Manual, FEMA, 2000.
3. National Flood Insurance Policies in Force in Florida by County, Insurance Information
Institute, 2017
4. Flood Proofing Techniques, Programs and References, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
National Flood Proofing Committee, 1991.
5. Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your House from Flooding. FEMA,
FEMA-312, 3rd Edition 2014.
6. Local Flood Proofing Programs, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1994.
7 Natural Resource Protection
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 101
7 Natural Resource Protection
Resource protection activities are generally aimed at preserving (or in some cases restoring)
natural areas. These activities enable the naturally beneficial functions of fields, floodplains,
wetlands, and other natural lands to operate more effectively. Natural and beneficial functions of
watersheds, floodplains and wetlands include:
• Reduction in runoff from rainwater in pervious areas
• Infiltration that absorbs overland flood flow
• Removal and filtering of excess nutrients, pollutants and sediments
• Storage of floodwaters
• Absorption of flood energy and reduction in flood scour
• Water quality improvement
• Groundwater recharge
• Habitat for flora and fauna
• Recreational and aesthetic opportunities
As development occurs, many of the above benefits can be achieved through regulatory steps for
protecting natural areas or natural functions. The regulatory programs are discussed in Chapter 5
– Preventive Measures. This chapter covers the resource protection programs and standards that
can help mitigate the impact of natural hazards, while they improve the overall environment.
Seven areas are reviewed:
• Wetland protection
• Erosion and sedimentation control
• River restoration
• Best management practices
• Dumping regulations
• Urban forestry
• Farmland protection
7.1 Wetland Protection
Wetlands are often found in floodplains and depressional areas of a watershed. Many wetlands
receive and store floodwaters, thus slowing and reducing downstream flows. They also serve as a
natural filter, which helps to improve water quality, and they provide habitat for many species of
fish, wildlife and plants.
Wetlands that are determined to be part of the waters of the United States are regulated by the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA) under
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Before a “404” permit is issued, the plans are reviewed by
7 Natural Resource Protection
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 102
Wetlands in the Lake Jesup Wilderness Area in Seminole County, Florida
Figure 36: Straw BalesWetlands in the Lake Jesup Wilderness Area in
Seminole County, Florida
Figure 37: Straw Bales
Figure 38: Straw BalesWetlands in the Lake Jesup Wilderness Area in
Seminole County, Florida
Figure 39: Straw BalesWetlands in the Lake Jesup Wilderness Area in
Seminole County, Florida
several agencies, including the Corps and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each of these
agencies must sign off on individual permits.
There are also nationwide permits that allow small projects that meet certain criteria to proceed
without individual permits. Wetlands not included in the Corps’ jurisdiction or that are addressed
by a nationwide permit may be regulated against by local authorities.
If a permit is issued by the Corps or the County, the impact of the development is typically
required to be mitigated. Wetland mitigation can include creation, restoration, enhancement or
preservation of wetlands elsewhere. Wetland mitigation is often accomplished within the
development site, however, mitigation is allowed off-site and sometimes in another watershed.
The appropriate type of mitigation is addressed in each permit.
Some developers and government agencies have accomplished the required mitigation by buying
into a wetland bank. Wetland banks are large wetlands created for the purpose of mitigation. The
banks accept money to reimburse the owner for setting the land aside from development.
When a wetland is
mitigated at a separate
site there are drawbacks
to consider. First, it takes
many years for a new
wetland to approach the
same quality as an
existing one. Second, a
new wetland in a
different location
(especially if it is in a
different watershed) will
not have the same flood
damage reduction
benefits as the original
one did.
7.1.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s Land Development Code includes a Wetlands Overlay Zoning Classification
(W-1) that applies to:
• All wetlands of at least 0.5 acres,
• Any smaller wetlands hydrologically connected to larger systems,
• Their adjacent upland buffers.
Disturbance and loss of wetlands are strictly prohibited within the Wekiva River Protection Area
(WRPA) and Econlockhatchee River Basin Overlay, regardless of size. Outside these zones,
smaller wetlands may be subject to mitigation unless disturbance triggers conservation easement
requirements. County permits, along with FDEP Environmental Resource Permits or SJRWMD
permits (in Wekiva Basin), are required for any land alteration involving wetland or surface
water features.
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 103
The Natural Lands Program, initiated in 1990 via voter-supported bonds, preserves ecologically
critical lands—including wetlands, floodplains, and buffers. As of 2025, over 7,300 acres of
natural lands are under County management, enhancing biodiversity, aquifer recharge, and
passive recreation opportunities. In 2023, Seminole County launched the Seminole Forever
Program, earmarking at least $5 million annually for acquisitions focused on wetlands, wildlife
corridors, and green infrastructure to bolster water quality and flood resilience.
The Comprehensive Plan (Conservation Elements CON 6, FLU Objectives 2.1–2.2) mandates
regulatory buffers (minimum 25 ft, increasing to 50 ft within WRPA/Econ zones) and prohibits
fill, structural development, and docks in wetlands and the 100-year floodplain within protected
areas—except for ecological restoration or public benefit projects with compensatory mitigation.
To support field application and development review, County staff utilize a Wetlands Field
Guide and GIS tools usings SJRWMD wetland and floodplain data layers to inform ordinance
compliance and environmental assessment
7.1.2 CRS Credit
CRS focuses on activities that directly affect flood damage to insurable buildings. While there is
no credit for relying on the Corps of Engineers’ 404 regulations, there is credit for preserving
open space in its natural condition or restored to a state approximating its natural condition. The
credit is based on the percentage of the floodplain that can be documented as wetlands protected
from development by ownership or local regulations.
7.2 Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Farmlands and construction sites typically contain large areas of bare exposed soil. Surface water
runoff can erode soil from these sites, sending sediment into downstream waterways. Erosion
also occurs along streambanks and shorelines as the volume and velocity of flow or wave action
destabilize and wash away the soil.
Sediment suspended in the water tends to settle out where flowing water slows down. This can
clog storm drains, drain tiles, culverts and ditches and reduce the water transport and storage
capacity of river and stream channels, lakes and wetlands. When channels are constricted and
flooding cannot deposit sediment in the bottomlands,
even more sediment is left in the channels. The result
can be clogged streams and increased dredging costs.
Not only are the drainage channels less able to perform
their job, but the sediment in the water reduces light,
oxygen and water quality, and often carries chemicals,
heavy metals and other pollutants. Sediment has been
identified by the US EPA as the nation’s number one
nonpoint source pollutant for aquatic life.
There are two principal strategies to address these
problems: minimize erosion and control sedimentation.
Techniques to minimize erosion include phased
Figure 40: Straw Bales
Figure 41: Straw Bales
Figure 42: Straw Bales
Figure 43: Straw Bales
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construction, minimal land clearing, and stabilizing bare ground as soon as possible with
vegetation and other soil stabilizing practices. Best management practices for agriculture
activities can also be implemented.
If erosion occurs, other measures are used to capture sediment before it leaves the site. Silt
fences, sediment traps and vegetated filter strips are commonly used to control sediment
transport. Runoff from the site can be slowed down by terraces, contour strip farming, no-till
farm practices, hay or straw bales, constructed wetlands, and impoundments (e.g., sediment
basins and farm ponds). Slowing surface water runoff on the way to a drainage channel increases
infiltration into the soil and reduces the volume of topsoil eroded from the site.
Erosion and sedimentation control regulations mandate that these types of practices be
incorporated into construction plans. They are usually oriented toward construction sites rather
than farms. The most common approach is to require applicants for permits to submit an erosion
and sediment control plan for the construction project. This allows the applicant to determine the
best practices for the site.
7.2.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s Public Works Engineering Manual and Land Development Code continue to
mandate strict erosion prevention and sediment control measures:
• Site Plan and Building Permit Requirements: Applications must include detailed plans
identifying erosion and sediment control (ESC) measures for all phases of clearing,
grading, and construction. These measures must be installed prior to land disturbance and
maintained through project completion
• Engineering Division Standards (Section 2.6): The Public Works Engineering Manual
specifies that ESC plans are required in all County right-of-way work. Plans must:
o Detail installation methods and maintenance for sediment barriers and dewatering
discharge controls,
o Ensure weekly inspections and immediate repairs within 24 hours of noticing
damage,
o Incorporate stabilization practices (e.g., seeding, mulching, rolled erosion control
products) when construction pauses or ends,
o Adhere to Florida DEP standards described in the state “Erosion and Sediment
Control Design Manual”
• Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP): Larger County-conducted projects (e.g.,
roadway drainage improvements) include a SWPPP aligned with NPDES permit
requirements. These plans include:
o Multiple types of sediment barriers (e.g., silt fences, turbidity curtains, sediment
basins),
o Scheduled turbidity monitoring (up to twice daily) during active earthwork,
o Provisions for non-stormwater discharges (e.g., spills)
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7.2.2 CRS Credit
Seminole County’s Surface Water Management Standards include erosion and sedimentation
control provisions and should qualify for 40 points, the maximum credit available.
7.3 Lake and Stream Restoration
Stream conservation, riparian corridor restoration, lake management, and lake shoreline
restoration are all objectives to returning lakes and streams, including adjacent lands, to a more
natural condition. Another term is “ecological restoration,” which restores native beneficial
plants and animals to an area. A key components of these efforts is to use appropriate native
plantings along the shoreline of lakes or banks of streams for erosion prevention. This may
involve retrofitting the lake shoreline or stream bank with native plantings, installing rolls of
landscape material covered with a natural fabric that decomposes after the banks are stabilized
with plant roots, or armoring areas with underground structures (such as geofabrics) to conserve
sediment and vegetation loss due to erosion. In addition, restoring natural meanders of a streams
are integral to reduce water velocity and flow and allow for natural deposition of sediment to
occur where decomposition of organics is promoted. These efforts follow the purpose of The
Plan to reduce safety hazards, health hazards, and property damage caused by floods.
The Plan fulfills the federal mitigation planning requirements, qualifies for CRS credit, and
provides the County with a blueprint for reducing the impacts of these flood hazards on people,
property, and public health. In all, restoration to lakes and streams has the following advantages:
• Reduces the amount of sediment and pollutants entering the water
• Reduces harmful algae blooms potential by mitigation nutrients
• Enhances aquatic habitat
• Provides food and shelter for both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife
• Can reduce flood damage by slowing the velocity of water
• Increases the beauty of the land and its property value
• Prevents property loss due to erosion
• Provides recreational opportunities, such as hunting, fishing and bird watching
• Reduces long-term maintenance costs
Studies have shown that after establishing the right vegetation, long-term maintenance costs are
lower than if the banks were concrete or a monoculture of grass. The Natural Resources
Conservation Service estimates that over a ten-year period, the combined costs of installation and
maintenance of a natural landscape may be one-fifth of the cost for conventional landscape
maintenance, e.g., mowing turf grass.
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 106
Figure 44: Aquatic and Riparian Buffer Plant Zones
7.3.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County continues to demonstrate leadership in surface water quality and habitat improvement
through its Lake Management Program, operated under the Watershed Management Division of the
Public Works Department. This program is designed to provide a comprehensive and adaptive approach
to lake and stream restoration, emphasizing the protection and enhancement of aquatic ecosystems while
mitigating flood risk and improving water quality.
The Seminole County Lake Management Program (SCLMP) applies evidence-based methods to evaluate
and manage lakes countywide. It is structured to be technically sound, publicly transparent, and
responsive to the ecological challenges facing local water bodies. The program aligns with regional
watershed goals and supports the objectives of FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS) Activity 510
by reducing flood damage vulnerability through natural resource protection.
Core Components of the Program Include:
• Biological and Water Quality Assessment
Detailed diagnostics are performed to assess eutrophication levels, pollutant loadings, and other
biological impairments. Water chemistry, chlorophyll levels, and clarity are monitored to track
long-term trends.
• Watershed-Scale Assessments
Comprehensive evaluations of contributing watershed areas are conducted. Land use, impervious
surfaces, soils, and hydrology are analyzed to identify pollutant sources and stormwater impacts
on lakes and streams.
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• Lake Management Plan Development
Management plans are created based on technical assessments and tailored to the needs of each
water body. Plans include goals, objectives, prioritized projects, and recommendations for
structural and non-structural interventions.
• Implementation of Restoration Techniques
The County employs a suite of restoration practices, including:
o Native shoreline vegetation planting
o Invasive aquatic plant removal
o Installation of stormwater treatment technologies
o Targeted herbicide applications
o Sediment removal and dredging where appropriate
o Grass carp stocking and aeration as biological control measures
o Public education and homeowner technical support
• Best Management Practices (BMPs)
The SCLMP promotes the adoption of watershed BMPs to reduce non-point source pollution,
such as buffer establishment, rain gardens, catch basin maintenance, and the use of pervious
surfaces.
Community Participation and Volunteer Engagement
Community involvement remains a cornerstone of Seminole County’s lake restoration initiatives. The
County coordinates with homeowners’ associations, lake advisory committees, and environmental
volunteers to support shoreline enhancement and invasive species removal.
Between 2020 and 2024, volunteer activities have contributed an average of:
• 1,787 hours per year of service toward shoreline restoration,
• 31,836 native plants installed annually, and
• 14.84 cubic yards of invasive plant species removed per year.
These metrics reflect strong civic engagement and reduce long-term public maintenance costs while
enhancing floodplain resilience.
Institutional Policy Framework
Seminole County’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code provide the regulatory framework
supporting the protection and restoration of natural water bodies. The County’s approach to lake and
stream restoration is embedded in local floodplain management strategies and complements the goals of
other environmental and stormwater programs, including the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) compliance and the Watershed Management Master Plan.
All restoration projects are coordinated with state and regional partners, including the Florida Department
of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD),
where applicable.
7.3.2 CRS Credit
The Community Rating System focuses on activities that directly affect flood damage to
insurable buildings. However, there are credits for preserving open space in its natural condition
or restored to a state approximating its natural condition. There are also credits for channel
setbacks, buffers and protecting shorelines.
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7.4 Stormwater Best Management Practices
Point source pollutants come from pipes such as the outfall of a municipal wastewater treatment
plant. They are regulated by the US EPA and the Florida Department of Environmental
Protection. Nonpoint source pollutants come from non-specific locations and are harder to
regulate. Examples of nonpoint source pollutants are lawn fertilizers, pesticides, grass clippings,
other chemicals, animal wastes, oils from street surfaces and industrial areas, and sediment from
agriculture, construction, mining and forestry. These pollutants are washed off the ground’s
surface by stormwater and flushed into receiving storm sewers, ditches, streams, and lakes.
The term “best management practices” (BMPs) refers to design, construction and maintenance
practices and criteria that minimize the impact of stormwater runoff through these management
techniques. By mitigating rate/volume of runoff through various recognized BMPs, erosion prevention,
natural resource protection, and capturing nonpoint source pollutants (including sediment) can be
achieved. BMPs can prevent increases in downstream flooding by attenuating runoff and enhancing
infiltration of stormwater. They also minimize water quality degradation causing hazardous algal
blooms, preserve beneficial natural features onsite, maintain natural base flows, minimize habitat
loss, improve ecological diversity, and provide multiple usages of drainage and storage facilities.
7.4.1 Local Implementation
Public Works Engineering Manual – Chapter 2 (Surface Water Management Standards)
• All stormwater systems (public or private) must be designed, constructed, and maintained
in accordance with SJRWMD, FDEP, and FDOT criteria
• Standards must align with SJRWMD Rules 40C-4, 40C-40, 40C-41, 40C-42, 40C-44,
40C-400, FDEP Rule 62-25, and FDOT Rule 14-86 FAC. County standards are stricter
where they exceed these baseline requirements
MS4 NPDES Permit (FLS000038)
• Seminole County holds a Phase I MS4 permit, which requires an integrated Stormwater
Management Program featuring pollution prevention, BMP installation, water quality
monitoring, and public education
• The County conducts biological monitoring twice annually at 35 water bodies, reports to
FDEP, and supports watershed volunteers via UF/IFAS programs
Construction BMP Enforcement (Ordinances Part 9)
• County Code §270.395–§270.399 prohibits illicit discharges and requires
erosion/sediment controls and SWPPPs for land-disturbing activities over one acre
• Enforcement includes inspections, maintenance requirements, and penalties under the
Code Enforcement Board — including fines, remediation costs, and liens.
Fertilizer & Illicit Discharge Ordinance
• Seminole County’s Fertilizer Ordinance (2017–08; amended 2022–02) prohibits N/P
fertilizer use and application during rainy season (June 1–Sept 30), establishes 15-ft
fertilizer-free zones near water bodies, and requires Certified Applicators to use slow-
release nitrogen
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• Part 9 further prohibits pet waste, oil, and illicit connections to storm sewers and
authorizes County inspection and corrective enforcement.
7.4.2 CRS Credit
Under Activity 450 – Stormwater Management, credit is given for both water quality and water
quantity. Water quality credit under activity is given to a community who implements best
management practices.
Figure 45: BMPs and Stormwater
7.5 Pollution Regulations
BMPs usually address pollutants that are liquids or are suspended in water that are washed into a
lake or stream. Dumping regulations address solid matter, such as shopping carts, appliances and
landscape waste that can be accidentally or intentionally thrown into channels or wetlands. Such
materials may not pollute the water, but they can obstruct even low flows and reduce the
channels’ and wetlands’ abilities to convey or clean stormwater.
Many cities have nuisance ordinances that prohibit dumping garbage or other “objectionable
waste” on public or private property. Waterway dumping regulations need to also apply to
“nonobjectionable” materials, such as grass clippings or tree branches, which can kill ground
cover or cause obstructions in channels. Regular inspections to catch violations should be
scheduled.
Many people do not realize the consequences of their actions. They may, for example, fill in the
ditch in their front yard without realizing that is needed to drain street runoff. They may not
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 110
understand how regrading their yard, filling a wetland, or discarding leaves or branches in a
watercourse can cause a problem to themselves and others. Therefore, a dumping enforcement
program should include public information materials that explain the reasons for the rules as well
as the penalties.
7.5.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County has several ordinances in place that prohibit the pollution of air and water
resources, and prevent illegal dumping or illicit discharges that could impact the county’s
drainage and water quality systems. These ordinances support compliance with federal
regulations such as the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) and the
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) stormwater requirements. The
following summarizes the key ordinances and local efforts:
Chapter 205 – Pollution Control
This ordinance adopts the provisions of the Florida Air and Water Pollution Control Act
(Chapter 403, Florida Statutes), as amended. Part 2 of the ordinance specifically prohibits the
dumping or discharge of any refuse, pollutants, or effluent into County-owned or maintained
drainage ditches or water bodies. This supports the County’s floodplain and surface water quality
protection initiatives by ensuring that stormwater infrastructure remains unobstructed and that
contaminants do not enter the receiving waters.
Chapter 270, Part 9 – Storm Sewer System Discharges
This ordinance governs non-stormwater discharges to the County’s municipal separate storm
sewer system (MS4). It provides the regulatory framework required by the NPDES permit
(FLS000038) and establishes methods for reducing pollutant discharges to the maximum extent
practicable.
• Section 270.402 explicitly prohibits illicit discharges and illicit physical connections to
the County’s stormwater system.
• Section 270.397(a)(1) defines a number of allowable non-stormwater discharges that are
exempt from enforcement, including water line flushing, landscape irrigation, air
conditioning condensation, and fire-fighting activities.
• The ordinance authorizes the County to conduct surveillance, inspections, monitoring,
and enforcement actions including citations, cost recovery, and injunctive relief.
Chapter 270, Part 10 – Stormwater Maintenance (2025 Enhancement)
Part 10 of Chapter 270 expands the County’s authority to perform maintenance on stormwater
infrastructure, even on private property, when public health or downstream flooding risks exist.
This includes inspecting, clearing, and repairing stormwater conveyances to reduce localized
flooding and pollutant loads. As of 2025, the County also performs annual inspections of priority
stormwater facilities and reports compliance through the FDEP's Stormwater Inspection and
Tracking Program.
Chapter 235 – Solid Waste
This ordinance governs solid waste management in Seminole County and specifies that all solid
waste must be disposed of at approved County-designated disposal facilities. Unauthorized
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 111
dumping or illegal hauling to non-permitted sites is prohibited. This ordinance helps reduce
pollutants entering stormwater systems and maintains the aesthetic and environmental quality of
unincorporated areas.
Chapter 95 – Health and Sanitation
Under this ordinance, objectionable, unsightly, or unsanitary accumulations of garbage, refuse,
junk, debris, or other waste materials are classified as public nuisances when found on private or
public property in unincorporated Seminole County. The County may issue notices to remove
such nuisances or abate them through enforcement.
Public Education and Reporting Mechanisms
Seminole County implements a proactive educational outreach program to inform residents,
businesses, and developers about proper waste disposal practices and the risks associated with
illicit discharges. Educational materials are distributed through County websites, public events,
and stormwater utility mailings.
In addition, the County offers public reporting mechanisms for water quality and pollution
concerns through:
• The Seminole County Water Atlas (www.seminole.wateratlas.usf.edu), which allows
users to submit reports of suspicious discharges or illegal dumping.
• A dedicated stormwater hotline and online portal for reporting pollution violations or
stormwater infrastructure issues.
Compliance with State and Regional Programs
Seminole County is a partner in the Wekiva Basin Management Action Plan (BMAP), which sets
local water quality improvement goals for impaired water bodies within the Wekiva River
watershed. As of 2025, the County continues to implement best management practices (BMPs)
to meet BMAP nutrient load reduction targets. The County is also subject to Senate Bill 810
(2025), which requires local MS4 permittees to conduct annual stormwater system inspections
and report deficiencies and remediation through a centralized tracking platform administered by
FDEP.
7.5.2 CRS Credit
The CRS provides up to 30 points for enforcing and publicizing a regulation that prohibits du
mping in the drainage system. Seminole County should be eligible for this credit.
These ordinances and supporting programs contribute significantly to the County’s activities
under the Community Rating System (CRS), specifically under:
Activity 450 (Stormwater Management), by establishing and enforcing pollution controls and
MS4 protections;
Activity 540 (Drainage System Maintenance), through proactive infrastructure inspection,
maintenance authority, and enforcement;
Activity 510 (Floodplain Management Planning), by supporting education, ordinance
enforcement, and community pollution reporting.
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7.6 Farmland Protection
Farmland protection is increasingly recognized in comprehensive planning and zoning across the
U.S. Its purpose is to preserve prime, unique, or important agricultural lands and prevent their
conversion to non-agricultural uses. Without protective measures, farmland on urban fringes is
frequently sold to residential or commercial developers, giving rise to urban sprawl,
infrastructure strain, increased stormwater runoff, and higher emergency management demands.
Economic forces drive farmland sales—appraisal pressure often prices parcel as urban land,
prompting farmers to sell as marginal agricultural operations become financially unsustainable.
Federally, the USDA Farm Bill's Farmland Protection Program (2002, Part 519) provides grants
to aid state, tribal, local governments, and nonprofits in purchasing agricultural land easements,
prioritizing cropland, rangeland, pastureland, grassland, and forest land within active agricultural
operations. These easements help prevent development while maintaining agricultural viability.
The hazard mitigation and environmental benefits of farmland protection mirror those of open-
space preservation (see Chapter 5 – Preventive Measures):
• Ensures farmland remains available for future generations;
• Keeps structures out of flood-prone zones;
• Reduces stormwater runoff and improves infiltration;
• Sustains rural economies and ecosystems;
• Maintains scenic vistas and rural character.
7.6.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County’s Comprehensive Plan includes explicit policies promoting farmland and
environmental preservation. The Future Land Use and Conservation elements feature goals such
as “Protection and preservation of the environment, including water resources, air quality,
regionally significant natural areas, open space and recreational areas”—which inherently
encompass agricultural lands.
The East Seminole County Scenic Corridor Overlay District recognizes agriculture as an
“important historical, cultural and economic resource,” permitting only limited development in
scenic rural zones, prioritizing agricultural and designated commercial uses. Landscaped buffers
using native species are required to maintain visual and ecological integrity.
Beginning in 2023, Seminole County launched the Seminole Forever Land Acquisition Program
(codified in Chapter 190, Part 6, Ordinance No. 2023-17). This initiative, funded via the
County’s General Fund, mirrors the State’s Florida Forever model by proactively acquiring land
to conserve natural features, including agricultural open space. Parcels eligible for Seminole
Forever consider environmental importance, groundwater recharge areas, biodiversity
enhancement, scenic value, and potential to buffer development pressures
In April 2025, the County’s Acquisition and Restoration Committee (ARC) scored the High
Oaks Ranch—a nearly 700-acre tract of rural farmland—highest among prospective conservation
parcels. Recommendations will be presented to the Board of County Commissioners, reflecting
active implementation of farmland and rural land protection strategies.
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 113
Finally, the County continues to adhere to Florida Statute 163.3177, which mandates that
comprehensive plans provide strategies, goals, and programs—including agricultural protection
policies—to guide sustainable growth
7.6.2 CRS Credit
Credit is given for preserving open space in the floodplain, regardless of why it is being
preserved. Credit is also provided for low density zoning of floodprone areas. Agricultural zones
that require minimum 10- or 20-acre lots would qualify.
7.7 Conclusions
1. A hazard mitigation program can use resource protection programs—such as agricultural
preservation and land acquisition efforts—to help protect natural areas and land uses that
reduce the impacts of natural hazards.
2. The County’s wetland protection, erosion control, and stormwater best management practices
(BMPs) continue to meet or exceed state and federal requirements and provide a robust
standard of environmental protection.
3. Seminole County’s recent investments in the Seminole Forever Land Acquisition Program
reflect a strategic commitment to conserving agricultural and environmentally sensitive
lands, including properties within the floodplain.
4. The East Seminole County Scenic Corridor Overlay District and relevant Comprehensive
Plan policies actively support the preservation of rural and agricultural land uses and help
maintain low-impact development in sensitive areas.
5. The County’s Code of Ordinances continues to prohibit illicit discharges into state waters
and the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4), aligning with state and federal
water quality protection standards.
6. Preserving farmland—particularly within or adjacent to floodplains—serves as an effective
non-structural mitigation strategy by reducing exposure of people and property to flood
hazards while supporting ecological and rural character goals.
7.8 Recommendations
Seminole County should continue to enforce wetland protection, erosion and sediment control,
and stormwater BMP provisions outlined in the Surface Water Management Standards.
The public and policymakers should be informed about the hazard mitigation, water quality, and
climate resilience benefits of preserving agricultural land and natural floodplain functions
through initiatives such as Seminole Forever.
Seminole County should maintain and publicize its regulations regarding illicit discharges,
including those outlined in Chapter 270 of the Code of Ordinances, to strengthen public
awareness and compliance.
Educational outreach should continue to highlight the importance of protecting streams,
wetlands, lakes, and rural landscapes from dumping, encroachment, and overdevelopment—and
should include clear references to applicable codes and conservation programs.
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The County should prioritize agricultural preservation efforts near flood-prone areas through
coordinated land use planning, overlay districts, and voluntary easement programs that support
mitigation goals.
Seminole County should continue evaluating and pursuing acquisition of high-value properties,
such as the High Oaks Ranch tract, through Seminole Forever and other funding mechanisms to
support long-term resilience, open space preservation, and farmland protection.
7.9 References
Banks and Buffers – A Guide to Selecting Native Plants for Streambanks and Shorelines,
Tennessee Valley Authority, 1997.
CRS Coordinator’s Manual, Community Rating System, FEMA, 2021.Stream Corridor
Restoration Principles, Processes and Practices, Federal Interagency Stream Restoration
Working Group, 1998.
Seminole County Public Works Engineering Manual, Chapter 2 – Surface Water Management
Standards.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/core/fileparse.php/3286/urlt/Chapter-2-Surface-Water-
Management.pdf
Seminole County Code of Ordinances, Part 9 – Illicit Discharges and Stormwater Pollution
Prevention.
https://seminole.wateratlas.usf.edu/upload/documents/Seminole-County-Stormwater-Ordinance-
20190726.pdf
Seminole County Comprehensive Plan, Drainage Element.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/docs/default-source/planningdocuments/drainage-element.pdf
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase I MS4 Permit – FLS000038.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/departments-services/environmental-services/watershed-
management/surface-water-quality-program/national-pollutant-discharge-elimination
Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) – NPDES Stormwater Program Rules
(Rule 62-25, FAC).
https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=62-25
St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) – Environmental Resource Permit Rules
(Ch. 40C-4, 40C-40, etc.).
https://www.sjrwmd.com/permitting/rules/
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) – Drainage and Stormwater Rules (Rule 14-86,
FAC).
https://www.flrules.org/gateway/ChapterHome.asp?Chapter=14-86
Seminole County Fertilizer Ordinance (2022-02) – Chapter 19, Section 19.35.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/docs/default-source/pwdocuments/ordinance-2022-02-
amending-chapter-19-fertilizer.pdf
UF/IFAS Extension – Seminole County Water Resources Outreach & Stormwater Volunteer
Programs.
https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/seminole/natural-resources/stormwater-education-and-outreach/
8 Emergency Services Measures
Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 115
Seminole County Office of
Emergency Management Mission:
To foster a prepared and resilient
community.
Seminole County Office of
Emergency Management Mission:
Planning, training, exercising, and
coordinating resources to ready our
community for any emergency, while
promoting a culture of preparedness
that will ensure Seminole County is a
safe place to work, live, and play.
8 Emergency Services Measures
Emergency services protect lives and property during and after disasters. A comprehensive
emergency management program encompasses all hazards and integrates departments and
jurisdictions throughout the county. At the state level, the Florida Division of Emergency
Management (FDEM) oversees emergency service
coordination, while Seminole County Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) leads local readiness
and response through planning, training, and the
Emergency Operations Center (EOC).
This section organizes measures by chronological emergency phases—from threat recognition to
post-disaster recovery.
8.1.1 Threat Recognition
Tropical Storms & Hurricanes
• The National Hurricane Center (NHC) continues to issue regular storm forecasts,
including model guidance (e.g., spaghetti plots)
• Seminole County maintains redundant monitoring systems through NOAA, local
mesonets, and partner agencies, and participates in the NWS StormReady and
SKYWARN programs, enabling trained spotters to report severe weather conditions in
real time
Floods
• NOAA's Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) provides forecasts for major
waterways. Local rainfall and stream gauges offer supplemental flashflood monitoring in
smaller tributaries.
• When stream conditions exceed flood thresholds or heavy rainfall occurs, county staff
utilize NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (SAME code 012117) and local media
advisories to notify the public
Severe Weather
• The National Weather Service (NWS) issues watches and warnings for tornadoes,
thunderstorms, and other hazards. Seminole County OEM uses SKYWARN spotters and
multiple communication channels — including Alert Seminole (text/phone/email),
SGTV, and social media — to disseminate alerts immediately upon receipt
Dam Failure
• The County’s OEM maintains direct communication protocols with upstream dam
operators (e.g., SJRWMD and private reservoirs). Coordination includes routine
information exchange and rapid community notification based on reservoir condition
thresholds.
Response & Public Notification
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• Emergency Operations Center (EOC): Seminole County OEM activates the EOC during
hazard events to coordinate multi-agency operations, including public safety, utilities,
shelter management, and interoperable communication
• Public Notification Platforms: Information is released through Alert Seminole, SGTV,
local media, NOAA Weather Radio, and social media for shelter openings, evacuation
zones, and flood safety instructions
Recovery & Mitigation
• After a disaster, OEM leads coordination of post-event assessments, debris removal, and
local mitigation actions, including the development of grant-funded projects like FMA,
HMGP, and BRIC
• Continuous public outreach educates residents on flood safety—e.g., how to locate Base
Flood Elevation data via county maps, elevate utilities, or establish flood prevention
measures at home
8.1.2 Local Implementation
The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) oversees planning,
implementation, and coordination of disaster response, recovery, mitigation, risk reduction,
prevention, and preparedness activities across the County. OEM conducts comprehensive
training, exercises, and stakeholder partnerships to ensure readiness for both natural and human-
caused emergencies and operates from a co-located Emergency Operations Center / Emergency
Communication Center alongside the E-911/Addressing Division
Severe Weather: Seminole County is recognized as a FEMA StormReady community. OEM
leverages National Weather Service radar, SKYWARN spotters, NOAA Weather Radio (SAME
code 012117), and Alert Seminole to detect and disseminate timely warnings during
thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hurricanes
Floods: The National Weather Service monitors multiple USGS stream and rain gauges—
including Wekiva River, St. Johns River, Howell Creek, Gee Creek, and Longwood Rain
Gage—to provide real-time stream flow and stage data. These data—available via the AHPS site
(water.weather.gov/ahps) and USGS National Water Information System—allow OEM to
forecast river levels, issue accurate flood watches/warnings, and deploy flood response measures
Dam Failure: No large-scale dams pose downstream risk within County limits or considerable
affect Seminole County’s waterways, streams or rivers. As a result, dam failure is not treated as a
flood threat in County emergency planning protocols.
8.1.3 CRS Credit.
Credit can be received for using National Hurricane Center warnings and river flood stage
predictions for the National Weather Service’s gages. The actual score is based on how much of
the community’s floodplain is affected by these systems. A total of 75 points is possible under
Activity 610 – Flood Warning Program.
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NOAA Weather Radios
NOAA Weather Radio is a nationwide
network of radio stations that broadcasts
warnings, watches, forecasts and other
hazard information 24 hours a day. For
Seminole County, information comes from
transmitters in Melbourne, Florida.
NOAA weather radios can be very effective
for notifying people, businesses, schools,
care facilities, etc. of weather threats. They
have a monitoring feature that issues an
alarm when activated by the Weather
Service.
To program a new weather radio, the FIPS
code for Seminole County is 012117. The
channels that broadcast information for
Seminole County are 162.4 Mhz (Channel 1)
and 162.475 Mhz (Channel 4). You can also
listen online, by visiting
https://www.weatherusa.net/radio.
NOAA Weather Radios
NOAA Weather Radio is a nationwide
network of radio stations that broadcasts
warnings, watches, forecasts and other
hazard information 24 hours a day. For
Seminole County, information comes from
transmitters in Melbourne, Florida.
NOAA weather radios can be very effective
for notifying people, businesses, schools,
care facilities, etc. of weather threats. They
have a monitoring feature that issues an
alarm when activated by the Weather
Service.
To program a new weather radio, the FIPS
code for Seminole County is 012117. The
channels that broadcast information for
Seminole County are 162.4 Mhz (Channel 1)
and 162.475 Mhz (Channel 4). You can also
listen online, by visiting
https://www.weatherusa.net/radio.
8.2 Warning
Once the threat recognition system identifies an approaching hazard—whether it’s a flood,
wildfire, tornado, thunderstorm, or hurricane—the
next critical step is alerting the public, staff, and
essential facilities. Early and precise warning allows a
greater number of individuals and institutions to take
protective actions, minimizing potential harm.
Seminole County’s Emergency Alert/Warning
Systems Operations Annex (within the
Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan —
CEMP) defines how the Office of Emergency
Management (OEM) coordinates alerts and warnings
to both stakeholders and the general public.
National Weather Service (NWS) Alert Levels:
• Watch: Conditions are favorable for
developing hazards such as flooding,
tornadoes, or winter storms.
• Warning: A hazardous event has begun or is
imminent (e.g., a tornado touchdown or flash
flood).
Local Dissemination Options:
In addition to NWS notices, Seminole County may
deliver more specific warnings using multiple
methods, including:
• Email notifications and SMS/text alerts (via
the Alert Seminole system)
• Local commercial or public radio and
television stations
• NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts
• Cable TV emergency news inserts
• Outdoor warning sirens in vulnerable zones
• Public safety vehicle sirens
• Door-to-door notifications in high-risk or
at-risk areas
• Social media channels, SGTV streaming, and
community message boards
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8.2.1 StormReady
The National Weather Service established the StormReady
program to help local governments improve the timeliness
and effectiveness of hazardous weather related warnings for
the public.
To be officially StormReady, a community must:
• Establish a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center,
• Have more than one way to receive severe weather warnings and forecasts and to alert
the public,
• Create a system that monitors weather conditions locally,
• Promote the importance of public readiness through community seminars, and
• Develop a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes training severe weather
spotters and holding emergency exercises.
Being designated a StormReady community by the National Weather Service is a good measure
of a community’s emergency warning program for weather hazards. It is also credited by the
CRS.
8.2.2 Local Implementation
The Office of Emergency Management (OEM) coordinates emergency warning and notifications
through a multimodal approach including, but not limited to, NOAA weather radios, Civil
Emergency Messages, Emergency Broadcast System, Emergency Alert System, electronic
text/media notification, cable interrupt, and reverse calling systems. The Florida Division of
Emergency Management also funds a reverse calling system that can be used to send voice, text,
and email notifications to residents based on geographic area. In Seminole County, this system is
called Alert Seminole.
Alert Seminole is a way for Seminole County residents to sign up for emergency notifications
from the Seminole County Emergency Management Agency. Notifications can be sent to a cell
phone, pager, or email address.
Officials with the National Weather Service in Melbourne, Florida awarded Seminole County the
designation of “StormReady.” This nationwide program assesses the capability of a community
to receive and disseminate severe weather information. The designation is only granted to those
communities that have established a high degree of readiness for natural disasters such as
hurricanes, tornadoes and floods.
8.2.3 CRS Credit
Community Rating System points are based on the number and types of warning media that can
reach the community’s floodprone population. Depending on the location, communities can
receive up to 25 points for the telephone calling system and more points if there are additional
measures, like telephone trees. Being designated as a StormReady community can provide 25
additional points. These credits are in Activity 610 – Flood Warning Program.
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8.3 Response
The protection of life and property is the most important task of emergency responders.
Concurrent with threat recognition and issuing warnings, a community should respond with
actions that can prevent or reduce damage and injuries. Typical actions and responding parties
include the following:
• Activating the emergency operations center (emergency management),
• Closing streets or bridges (sheriff’s office or public works),
• Shutting off power to threatened areas (utility company),
• Passing out sandbags (public works),
• Holding children at school/releasing children from school (school superintendent),
• Opening evacuation shelters (emergency management/ School Board),
• Monitoring water levels (engineering), and
• Establishing security and other protection measures (police/sheriff).
An emergency action plan ensures that all bases are covered and that the response activities are
appropriate for the expected threat. These plans are developed in coordination with the agencies
or offices that are given the various responsibilities.
Planning is best done with adequate data. One of the best tools is a map that shows which areas
would be affected under different conditions. Even though Seminole County is not a coastal
County, it may be beneficial to consider developing a map which directs residents to evacuate
based on the different hurricane categories.
A flood stage forecast map shows areas that will be under water at various flood stages. Different
flood levels are shown as color coded areas, so the emergency management agency can quickly
see what will be affected. Emergency management staff can identify the number of properties
flooded, which roads will be under water, which critical facilities will be affected, who to warn,
etc. With this information, an advance plan can be prepared that shows problem sites and
determines what resources will be needed to respond to the predicted flood level.
Emergency response plans should be updated annually to keep contact names and telephone
numbers current and to ensure that needed supplies and equipment are still available. They
should be critiqued and revised after disasters and exercises to take advantage of the lessons
learned and of changing conditions. The end result is a coordinated effort implemented by people
who have experience working together so that available resources will be used in the most
efficient manner possible.
8.3.1 Local Implementation
The Seminole County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to serve as the centralized
hub for disaster preparedness, training, response, and recovery activities. Operating under the
National Incident Management System (NIMS) framework, the EOC enables strategic
coordination across local and regional agencies to protect county residents and property.
Facility and Infrastructure
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• Size & Layout: A 3,525 ft² main operations room, with two breakout areas for amateur
radio (ARES/RACES) and Seminole Government Television (SGTV) use. Additional
rooms include a Policy Room, Joint Information Center (JIC), and a Citizen Information
Hotline (3-1-1) call center. These spaces support both operational functions and public
information efforts
• Resilience Features: The facility is equipped with dual backup generators, potable water,
and shower facilities—ensuring uninterrupted operations during prolonged activations
Staffing & Organizational Structure
• Managed under the Command & General Staff structure, with 20 Emergency Support
Functions (ESFs) and a Municipal Branch led by local jurisdictions/interfaces with
county departments
• Commonly staffed jointly by OEM, Fire/EMS, E-911, GIS, Public Works,
ARES/RACES volunteers, and municipal ESF partners.
Communications & Data Systems
• Equipped with integrated audio-visual systems, GIS-based mapping, real-time traffic
camera feeds, interoperable radio systems, satellite communications, and live streaming
to SGTV and public platforms
• Staff utilize WebEOC as the primary incident resource management and tracking
platform
Co-located EOC / ECC & Emergency Tools
• The EOC is strategically co-located with the Emergency Communication Center, housing
the County’s E-911 operations and enabling robust interoperable communication across
all radio bands
Flood Response Operations: 2022 & 2024 Events
2022 – Hurricane Ian & Nicole Flooding
• Deployed over 200,000 sandbags countywide to residents in flood-prone areas as a pre-
emptive protection measure.
• Some river gauges recorded nearly 26 inches of rainfall in 24 hours, and several
streams—including the St. Johns River—remained at flood stage for more than 56 days
• The EOC coordinated critical infrastructure protection by installing a temporary dam
around Trauma 2 hospital, and facilitating safe passage for animal care crews to reach the
Central Florida Zoo amid severe inundation
• 120 homes remained flooded for over 25 days, and 80+ roadways were submerged for
over 40 days, with removal of temporary generators, dumpsters, and boat access points
occurring only as access was restored
2024 – Hurricane Milton & Saturated River Systems
• Following Hurricane Milton’s landfall, OEM pre-positioned emergency vehicles near
critical drainage areas anticipating extended flooding of the St. Johns River and its
tributaries—particularly near Lake Jesup and Lake Harney
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• Sandbag stations were activated (locations publicly announced by 10 a.m.) to support
residents along rising waterways. Alert Seminole, SGTV, and county media were used to
inform residents
• A FEMA Disaster Recovery Center at Seminole State College supported impacted
residents: over 18,000 local applicants, with more than $2.5 million in assistance
disbursed
8.3.2 CRS Credit
Up to 255 points of credit is available for a fully credited flood warning system. Credit is based
on a variety of factors and is cumulative, which includes the previous credits mentioned.
8.4 Evacuation and Shelter
In an area subject to the tremendous forces that accompany hurricanes, evacuation is a prime life
safety concern. Given the one to two days of lead time provided by the National Hurricane
Center, evacuation on a large scale is a realistic lifesaving task. In other situations, such as a
tornado, it is safer to keep people where they are rather than expose them to danger from an
event that gives little warning.
According to Emergency Management: Principles and Practice,
“The principle of evacuation is to move citizens from a place of
relative danger to a place of relative safety, via a route that does
not pose significant danger.” There are six key ingredients to a
successful evacuation:
• Adequate warning
• Adequate routes
• Proper timing to ensure the routes are clear
• Traffic control
• Knowledgeable travelers
• Care for special populations (e.g., handicapped, prisoners, hospital patients, and
schoolchildren)
Those who cannot get out of harm’s way need shelter. For tropical storms, a stick-built house
(not a mobile home) often suffices, but for hurricanes, something sturdier is required. That is
why schools so often serve as shelters during a storm as well as a place for those who have lost
their homes after the storm.
Seminole County and the School Board of Seminole County will staff a shelter and ensure that
there is adequate food, bedding, and wash facilities. Shelter management is a specialized skill.
Managers must deal with problems like scared children, families that want to bring their pets in,
and the potential for an overcrowded facility.
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8.4.1 Local Implementation
Evacuation routes for Seminole County are shown in the map below.
Figure 46: Seminole County Evacuation Routes
8.4.2 CRS Credit
Because it is primarily concerned with protecting insurable buildings, the CRS does not provide
any special credit for evacuation or sheltering of people. It is assumed that the emergency
response plan would include all necessary actions in response to a flood.
8.5 Post-Disaster Recovery and Mitigation
After a disaster, communities should undertake activities to protect public health and safety and
facilitate recovery. Appropriate measures include:
• Patrolling evacuated areas to prevent looting,
• Providing safe drinking water,
• Monitoring for diseases,
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• Vaccinating residents for tetanus and other diseases,
• Clearing streets, and
• Cleaning up debris and garbage.
Throughout the recovery phase, everyone wants to get “back to normal.” The problem is that
“normal” means the way they were before the disaster, exposed to repeated damage from future
disasters. There should be an effort to help prepare people and property for the next disaster.
Such an effort would include:
• Public information activities to advise residents about mitigation measures they can
incorporate into their reconstruction work,
• Evaluating damaged public facilities to identify mitigation measures that can be included
during repairs,
• Identifying other mitigation measures that can lessen the impact of the next disaster,
• Acquiring substantially or repeatedly damaged properties from willing sellers,
• Planning for long-term mitigation activities, and
• Applying for post-disaster mitigation funds.
8.5.1 Regulating Reconstruction
Requiring permits for building repairs and conducting inspections is a critical component of
post-disaster recovery in Seminole County. These activities ensure that damaged structures are
safe to reenter and meet applicable codes prior to repair. This process is especially important in
designated flood hazard areas. Regardless of the cause of the disaster, the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) requires communities to enforce substantial damage regulations as a
condition of program participation.
Under these regulations, if the cost to repair a structure located in the Special Flood Hazard Area
(SFHA) equals or exceeds 50% of the building’s market value (excluding land value), the
structure is considered substantially damaged. In these cases, the building must be brought into
compliance with current floodplain management regulations. For Seminole County, this means
the structure must be elevated to or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), and meet other
applicable design standards outlined in Chapter 30, Part 54 of the Seminole County Code
(Floodplain Management Ordinance).
Seminole County utilizes damage assessment procedures in accordance with the Florida Building
Code and the local floodplain ordinance to determine substantial damage and to ensure safe and
compliant rebuilding. These assessments are performed in coordination with the Building
Division, the Office of Emergency Management, and Floodplain Management staff. Properties
identified as potentially substantially damaged are flagged for further evaluation and outreach is
conducted to guide property owners through the permitting and elevation process.
Post-disaster enforcement of reconstruction regulations can be logistically challenging due to the
high demand placed on limited personnel. To address this, Seminole County participates in
regional mutual aid agreements that allow certified inspectors from neighboring jurisdictions to
assist in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. Additionally, the County has developed pre-
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disaster planning documents and Just-In-Time training materials to support efficient deployment
of substantial damage determination teams.
Failure to properly enforce reconstruction requirements may jeopardize the County’s standing in
the NFIP and reduce flood insurance benefits for property owners. As emphasized in Chapter 5 –
Preventive Measures, strong enforcement of floodplain reconstruction regulations helps ensure a
safer, more resilient recovery process and maintains compliance with both federal and local
floodplain standards.
In 2024, the Florida Legislature enacted House Bill 7053, requiring local governments to further
integrate resilience planning and post-disaster redevelopment strategies into their Comprehensive
Emergency Management Plans. Seminole County has incorporated these requirements into
ongoing updates of its Resilient Seminole Initiative and Local Mitigation Strategy to ensure
alignment with state mandates and FEMA guidance.
Florida’s Senate Bill 180, effective July 1, 2025 (Chapter 2025-190, Laws of Florida), introduces
significant mandates affecting rebuilding and post-disaster permitting:
• Post-Storm Permitting Plans: Counties must adopt and annually update a plan—including
expedited permit procedures, fee waivers, and identification of frequently requested post-
storm permits—published on local government websites by May 1 each year
• Prohibition Periods: For 180 days following a state of emergency, counties may not
increase building permit or inspection fees, nor impose new impact fees on like-for-like
rebuilds
• Moratorium & Regulation Freeze: Local governments within 100 miles of a hurricane’s
storm track may not adopt more restrictive or burdensome policies—such as
comprehensive plan amendments, land development rules, or moratoriums—on
reconstruction for one year following designated storms (e.g., Hurricanes Debby, Helene,
Milton). This provision applies retroactively from August 1, 2024 through October 1,
2027
• SB 180 prohibits cumulative substantial damage tracking, meaning local jurisdictions
cannot combine past and current damage percentages to assess compliance thresholds
under substantial improvement rule
8.5.2 Local Implementation
The County’s Floodplain Management Ordinance includes the NFIP requirements for
determining if a building is substantially damaged. The County’s practice is to wait until
reconstruction applicants come to the County to request a permit. Repairs that are cosmetic only
(for example, replacing flooring, cabinets and painting) do not need permits.
There are no special public information activities to tell people to apply for a permit. Residents
interested in a mitigation project funded by the NFIP’s Increased Cost of Compliance do apply
and request a substantial damage determination.
These practices could potentially permit substantially damaged properties to be repaired without
inspection. These practices also mean that the County misses opportunities to inform disaster
victims about property protection measures that they can incorporate during repairs.
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8.5.3 CRS Credit
Seminole County should formally establish post-disaster mitigation polices outlined in this Plan
in the section above.
8.6 Conclusions
Seminole County utilizes multiple threat recognition systems that provide advance notice of
emergencies, including flooding, tropical cyclones, and severe storms. These systems include
National Weather Service alerts, hydrologic sensors, and local real-time flood gauges. Recent
flood events in 2022 and 2024 demonstrated that early warnings enabled timely Emergency
Operations Center (EOC) activations and protective measures such as sandbag distribution,
evacuation guidance, and shelter operations.
Additional stream and river gauges, particularly in under-monitored basins, would enhance flood
threat recognition and real-time situational awareness, especially in vulnerable and growing
communities. Seminole County has made efforts to expand its gauge network in coordination
with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the St. Johns River Water Management District
(SJRWMD), though some rural or inland areas remain without real-time monitoring.
The Seminole County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) and the Local
Mitigation and Resiliency Strategy (LMRS) provide multi-hazard guidance, including the Flood
Response Annex, which outlines flood-specific response actions such as resource staging,
sandbag distribution points, and flood zone outreach. These plans were tested and updated based
on operational lessons learned from Hurricane Ian (2022) and the 2024 rain-on-saturated-ground
flood event. Both events demonstrated the value of having structured but adaptable response
protocols.
There are still gaps in post-disaster inspection guidance and mitigation integration during
reconstruction. While Seminole County’s Building Division and Floodplain Administrator
enforce substantial damage rules in accordance with FEMA and NFIP requirements, the County
would benefit from a more formalized strategy to conduct rapid damage assessments and to
promote elevation, retrofit, or acquisition during the repair permitting process. Without a
standardized countywide post-disaster mitigation inspection program, these opportunities risk
being inconsistently captured.
Recent Florida legislation, such as SB 180 (2025), presents both benefits and limitations. It
enhances post-disaster permitting timelines and public accessibility to recovery resources but
also restricts local flexibility, such as cumulative substantial damage tracking and long-term
reconstruction regulations. These constraints may impact the County’s ability to fully leverage
CRS credit for Activities 510, 520, and 540.
8.7 Recommendations
1. Seminole County should conduct a detailed review of its Comprehensive Emergency
Management Plan (CEMP), Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS), and associated annexes
(e.g., Flood Response Annex, Emergency Alert/Warning Systems Annex) to identify
enhancements that align with Community Rating System (CRS) creditable activities,
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 126
especially Activities 510 (Floodplain Management Planning), 610 (Flood Warning and
Response), and 630 (Dam Safety). These plans should then be submitted for CRS review
to receive actionable feedback and identify additional improvements to increase the
County’s CRS class standing.
2. The County should actively pursue funding opportunities to expand the flood gauge
network, particularly in unmonitored or low-coverage basins. Funding options may
include the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), Flood Mitigation Assistance
(FMA), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) partnerships, or direct grants from the St. Johns
River Water Management District (SJRWMD). Additional gauges would improve flood
forecasting and real-time situational awareness and support Activity 610 CRS credit.
3. Seminole should evaluate and update its evacuation and re-entry procedures to address
traffic flow and congestion challenges during large-scale events. This should include
coordination with adjacent counties and municipalities, traffic signal control systems, and
public information outreach to encourage phased or zone-based evacuations where
applicable.
4. The County’s Emergency Management, Public Information, Permitting, and Planning
Divisions should jointly revise post-disaster procedures to ensure they:
a. Promote consistent enforcement of substantial damage and reconstruction
regulations;
b. Integrate mitigation opportunities into recovery through elevation, retrofit, or
acquisition outreach;
c. Ensure clear and timely public messaging on reconstruction permitting processes
and hazard-related requirements;
d. Capture and report damage assessment data for future mitigation planning and
grant applications.
5. The County should develop a formal Post-Disaster Recovery and Mitigation Strategy,
which includes pre-scripted messaging, rapid substantial damage assessment protocols,
mutual aid inspection plans, and prioritized mitigation project identification. This will
enhance post-disaster efficiency and improve CRS credit for Activities 510, 520
(Repetitive Loss), 530 (Flood Protection), and 610.
6. The County should closely monitor state legislation impacting local reconstruction
authority, such as SB 180 (2025), and advocate for amendments or administrative
strategies that preserve the County’s ability to enforce cumulative substantial damage
tracking and promote resilient redevelopment practices.
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8.8 References
CRS Coordinator’s Manual, FEMA, 2021.
https://crsresources.org/manual/
Latest version of the primary CRS guidance used to determine creditable emergency service
activities, including flood response (Activity 610), warning systems, and post-disaster recovery
coordination.
CRS Credit for Flood Warning and Response, FEMA, 2023.
https://crsresources.org/files/100/fema-activity-610-guidance-2023.pdf
Updated FEMA technical guidance focused specifically on CRS Activity 610: Flood Warning
and Response, including best practices for alert systems, gauge integration, and threat
recognition systems.
Florida State Emergency Response Plan (SERP), Florida Division of Emergency Management
(FDEM), 2022.
https://www.floridadisaster.org/dem/serp/
Describes statewide coordination protocols, mutual aid, and ESF structures relevant to Seminole
County’s integration of Emergency Support Functions in the EOC.
Seminole County Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP), 2024 Update.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/your-government/emergency-management/plans.stml
Includes the Flood Response Annex and Emergency Alert/Warning Systems Operations Annex.
Details protocols for disaster response, notifications, and damage assessments.
Guide for All-Hazard Emergency Operations Planning (SLG-101), FEMA, 1996 (still in effect).
https://www.fema.gov/pdf/plan/1-ch.pdf
Foundational framework for emergency planning still referenced in modern emergency
operations plans.
NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards (NWR) – National Weather Service, Updated 2024.
https://www.weather.gov/nwr
Details NOAA’s nationwide alerting and weather radio system, a key part of Seminole County’s
multi-modal alert system.
FEMA Damage Assessment Operations Manual, FEMA P-154, 2022.
https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/documents/fema_damage-assessment-operations-
manual_2022.pdf
Covers protocols for post-disaster damage assessments, including substantial damage
determinations used in floodplain management.
Florida Senate Bill 180 (2025 Session) – “An act relating to local government actions after
natural disasters.”
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/180
This bill affects how local governments like Seminole County regulate reconstruction following
declared disasters, especially in mapped floodplains.
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9 Structural Project Measures
Flood control projects have traditionally been used by communities to control or manage
floodwaters. They are also known as “structural” projects that keep flood waters away from an
area as opposed to “non-structural” projects, like retrofitting, that do not rely on structures to
control flows.
9.1 Flood Control Measures
Four general types of flood control projects are reviewed here: levees, weirs, reservoirs,
diversions, and dredging. These projects have three advantages not provided by other mitigation
measures:
• They can stop most flooding, protecting streets and landscaping in addition to buildings,
• Many projects can be built without disrupting citizens’ homes and businesses, and
• They are constructed and maintained by a government agency, a more dependable long-
term management arrangement than depending on many individual private property
owners.
However, as shown below, structural measures also have shortcomings. The appropriateness of
using flood control depends on individual project area circumstances.
Pros and Cons of Structural Flood Control Projects
Advantages
They may provide the greatest amount of
protection for land area used.
Because of land limitations, they may be the
only practical solution in some
circumstances.
They can incorporate other benefits into
structural project design, such as water
supply and recreational uses.
Regional detention may be more cost-
efficient and effective than requiring
numerous small detention basins.
Disadvantages
They can disturb the land and disrupt the
natural water flows, often destroying
wildlife habitat.
They require regular maintenance, which if
neglected can have disastrous consequences.
They are built to a certain flood protection
level that can be exceeded by larger floods,
causing extensive damage.
They can create a false sense of security, as
people protected by a project often believe
no flood can ever reach them.
Although it may be unintended, in many
circumstances they promote more intensive
land use and development in the floodplain.
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9.1.1 Levees, Weirs, and Floodwalls
Among the most recognized structural flood control measures are levees and floodwalls—
barriers constructed of earth or concrete designed to separate floodwaters from the properties
they threaten. A levee is an engineered earthen embankment constructed parallel to a river or
stream, while a floodwall is a vertical structure, typically made of concrete or steel, used where
space is limited.
A weir is a low dam built across a river or stream to regulate water levels upstream. Weirs have
historically been used to control flow rates without the intent of long-term water storage, unlike
reservoirs. In practice, weirs manage water levels for ecological, flood control, or urban water
management purposes. In Seminole County, weirs are in use on several waterways, including
Soldier’s Creek, Howell Creek, and Lake Sylvan.
Levees and floodwalls function by confining floodwaters to the existing channel, but they must
be carefully designed to withstand overtopping, internal seepage, and scouring. While such
structures may reduce damages during more frequent, lower-magnitude flood events, they can
exacerbate impacts during extreme events if overtopped or breached, potentially leading to
catastrophic consequences. It is critical that these measures be evaluated comprehensively to
avoid unintended harm.
Key considerations in the evaluation of levees include:
• Design and permitting costs,
• Right-of-way acquisition,
• Compensatory storage requirements to offset displaced floodplain volume,
• Internal drainage infrastructure to manage runoff trapped behind the levee,
• Construction and long-term maintenance costs,
• Wetland and habitat impact mitigation,
• Loss of visual and physical river access,
• The potential for a false sense of security in levee-protected areas,
• Adverse effects to adjacent and downstream properties due to redirected flood flows.
Setback levees—constructed at a distance from the immediate streambank—are preferred when
feasible. These reduce environmental impacts and create opportunities for dual-purpose use, such
as open space, passive recreation, or habitat corridors. As of 2025, no levees have been
constructed in Seminole County, though the concept may be explored for future projects
requiring protection of critical infrastructure.
Weirs, while useful, can cause upstream flooding during high flow events and tend to accumulate
sediment and debris. These characteristics can degrade aquatic ecosystems if not managed
properly. Careful design and routine maintenance are required, especially when used in areas
with high sediment loads or floating debris.
Floodwalls provide similar protection to levees but occupy less surface area due to their vertical
design. However, their cost and engineering complexity often limit their use to urban settings
with significant at-risk assets. They also displace erosive energy to downstream areas and can
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fragment natural shoreline and wetland systems. One example in Seminole County is the
floodwall incorporated into the City of Sanford’s Riverwalk along Lake Monroe, which provides
protection for the adjacent roadway and commercial district.
Seawalls, typically used in coastal areas, are vertical retaining walls designed to protect
shorelines from wave-induced erosion. Though effective at reducing direct erosion, they often
cause increased erosion on adjacent, unprotected properties and interfere with natural sediment
transport. Due to these unintended effects, seawalls are discouraged and in some cases prohibited
by federal, state, or local policy, including provisions in Florida’s Coastal Construction Control
Line (CCCL) regulations.
In alignment with both the Seminole County Comprehensive Plan and the Local Mitigation
Strategy, structural measures are only considered when non-structural or nature-based
alternatives are not feasible or cannot adequately protect critical facilities or existing
development. The County continues to prioritize approaches that minimize environmental
impacts and promote long-term resilience.
9.1.2 Reservoirs and Detention
Reservoirs and detention basins help reduce
flooding by temporarily storing excess stormwater
runoff during heavy rainfall events. These systems
lower downstream flood stages by holding
floodwaters behind a dam or within a basin until the
flood peak has passed, after which the stored water
is gradually released or pumped out at a controlled
rate the receiving water body can handle safely.
Reservoirs may be dry most of the time, only filling
during significant rainfall events, or they may be
designed as permanent water features such as lakes or ponds. When designed as lakes, these
features can offer additional community benefits such as recreational opportunities or
supplemental water supply, which may also aid drought mitigation.
Flood control reservoirs are generally constructed for one of two purposes:
• Large reservoirs are built to protect developed areas already experiencing flood risk.
• Smaller detention basins are typically used to manage stormwater runoff from new
development and to prevent downstream impacts.
Regardless of size, reservoirs primarily serve to protect areas located downstream of the
structure. Unlike levees and channel modifications, they do not need to be located immediately
adjacent to the properties they protect and can be sited to minimize environmental disruption.
They are most effective in deep valleys or upstream areas of smaller watersheds where storage
capacity is more feasible.
In urban areas, detention basins often take the form of manmade excavations located near—but
usually outside—the regulatory floodplain. These basins are designed without traditional dams,
thereby eliminating dam failure hazards. Both wet (permanent pond) and dry (temporary storage)
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basins can serve multiple functions, including recreational use, aesthetic improvement, and open
space preservation. This multifunctional design can help Seminole County earn CRS credit under
Activity 430 – Higher Regulatory Standards and Activity 540 – Drainage System Maintenance.
Key considerations when evaluating reservoirs and detention basins include:
• Risk of downstream flooding in the event of dam failure (if the facility includes a dam),
• Ongoing costs associated with maintenance, vegetation management, sediment removal,
and inspection,
• Reduced effectiveness during events that exceed the facility’s design storm level,
• Sedimentation over time, which may reduce storage capacity and require periodic
dredging or restoration,
• Potential impacts to water quality, including increased water temperature and altered
nutrient and oxygen levels, particularly in long-retention or poorly aerated ponds, and
• The potential for upstream backwater flooding if in-stream reservoirs are not designed
with sufficient hydraulic consideration.
There are multiple dry and wet detention basins in Seminole County constructed to meet
stormwater retention and treatment requirements outlined in the Land Development Code
Chapter 40 – Drainage and Stormwater Management. These basins serve to mitigate both
flooding and water quality impacts, in line with Florida Department of Environmental Protection
(FDEP) and St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) permitting requirements.
9.1.3 Diversion
A diversion is a structural flood mitigation measure that reroutes excess floodwaters away from
flood-prone areas by creating an alternate flow path. Diversions are designed to reduce flooding
along the original watercourse by conveying high flows to a less vulnerable receiving body, such
as a nearby river, lake, or stormwater system. This is typically achieved using constructed
surface channels, overflow weirs, or tunnels.
During normal conditions, flow is contained within the existing stream or channel. When flood
conditions arise, excess water is redirected through the diversion structure to reduce pressure and
lower flood stages in the original channel. The goal is to safely relocate floodwaters to areas
where they will cause minimal or no damage.
While diversions can be effective, they are highly constrained by local topography and land use
patterns. For a diversion to be cost-effective and technically feasible:
• The receiving water body must be relatively close and capable of handling the additional
flow volume,
• The intervening land must have a suitable gradient for gravity flow and be available for
construction, ideally undeveloped or publicly owned,
• The project must avoid shifting flood risk to other areas, particularly downstream or in
environmentally sensitive zones.
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Due to these constraints, diversions are generally more feasible in rural or semi-developed areas
where land is available and where receiving basins (such as lakes or large floodplain rivers) are
nearby.
In Seminole County, there are no major diversion structures currently in place, but small-scale
flow redirection techniques (e.g., overflow weirs and bypass ditches) are employed within
stormwater infrastructure systems managed by the Public Works Department and the Watershed
Management Division. These systems are guided by design standards in Chapter 40 of the
Seminole County Land Development Code, which emphasizes protection of natural conveyance
systems and minimization of downstream impacts.
9.1.4 Dredging
Dredging is sometimes proposed as a conveyance
improvement to reduce flooding by increasing the depth of
a waterway and improving its capacity to carry
stormwater. However, dredging is rarely a viable or
sustainable flood control strategy due to several significant
limitations:
• Minimal impact on flood elevations: Given the
volume and velocity of floodwaters during significant rainfall events, removing one or
two feet from the bottom of a stream channel has a negligible effect on overall flood
heights. Hydraulic models often show limited benefits in flood reduction unless very
large-scale excavation is undertaken.
• High cost and disposal challenges: Dredging is expensive, particularly when
contaminated sediments or large volumes must be managed. Disposal of dredged material
requires suitable, permitted locations and often long-distance transport, adding to the
project’s overall cost.
• Temporary effectiveness: Without comprehensive upstream erosion control and sediment
management, dredged channels quickly fill in again due to natural sediment deposition.
This often requires repeated maintenance dredging within a few years, which compounds
cost and environmental disruption.
• Ecological impacts: Undisturbed stream channels typically support diverse aquatic and
riparian ecosystems. Dredging disturbs or destroys this habitat, degrading water quality,
eliminating aquatic life, and altering the stream’s natural hydrology.
Due to these impacts, federal regulations require a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act before dredging activities can
commence. This permitting process includes environmental review and consultation under the
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and may
take several months or longer to complete. Additional permits from the St. Johns River Water
Management District (SJRWMD) and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP)
are also typically required.
In Seminole County, dredging is not widely used as a flood mitigation strategy due to its limited
long-term effectiveness and environmental concerns. Instead, the County prioritizes non-
structural measures such as preservation of natural floodplains, green infrastructure, streambank
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stabilization, and maintenance of existing conveyance systems through vegetative management
and debris removal.
To the extent that limited dredging may be necessary for specific maintenance or navigation
concerns, those activities are guided by Chapter 40 of the Seminole County Land Development
Code and subject to strict environmental review and coordination with federal and state agencies.
9.1.5 Channelization
Channelization has historically been a widely used approach to address local drainage and flood
concerns. This method involves straightening, deepening, and/or widening a natural stream or
river channel to increase conveyance capacity and move stormwater more quickly through an
area.
However, channelization presents several critical drawbacks, especially when evaluated against
modern best practices in floodplain management and natural systems protection:
• Increased downstream flood risk: While channelization may reduce localized flooding by
accelerating water flow through a specific area, it often worsens flooding downstream by
delivering higher volumes of stormwater at faster velocities. This can overwhelm
downstream systems and exacerbate floodplain impacts.
• Flashier hydrology and degraded water quality: Channelized streams rise and fall more
rapidly. During dry conditions, the artificially deepened channel holds less baseflow,
resulting in lower water levels, warmer water temperatures, and reduced dissolved
oxygen. These conditions degrade aquatic habitat and can lead to poor water quality,
especially in urban environments with nonpoint source pollution.
• Increased erosion and instability: Straightened and deepened channels often have
unnatural flow velocities that cause bank erosion, channel incision, and sedimentation
problems. Over time, these channels may become unstable and require repeated dredging,
bank stabilization, or reconstruction—creating a cycle of costly maintenance.
Despite these issues, when channel modifications are properly designed with ecological and
hydraulic considerations, they can provide more sustainable outcomes. For example, vegetated
swales, bioengineered channels, and natural channel design techniques can maintain conveyance
while also enhancing water quality, reducing erosion, and improving habitat.
In Seminole County, the use of large-scale channelization is generally not recommended as a
flood control solution except in limited, site-specific circumstances where no viable alternatives
exist. County policy instead favors preservation and restoration of natural channels,
implementation of Low Impact Development (LID) practices, and use of green infrastructure to
manage stormwater at its source.
Channel maintenance efforts within the County prioritize non-invasive measures, including the
clearing of blockages and selective vegetation management, in accordance with Florida
Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and St. Johns River Water Management
District (SJRWMD) permitting requirements.
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9.1.6 CRS Credit
Structural flood control projects that provide 100-year flood protection and that result in
revisions to the Flood Insurance Rate Map are not credited by the CRS in order to avoid
duplicating the larger premium reduction provided by removing properties from the mapped
floodplain.
The CRS credits smaller flood control projects that meet the following criteria:
• They must provide protection to at least the 25-year flood,
• They must meet certain environmental protection criteria,
• They must meet federal, state and local regulations, such as the Corps of Engineers’ 404
permit and Florida dam safety rules, and
• They must meet certain maintenance requirements.
These criteria ensure that credited projects are well-planned and permitted. Any of the measures
reviewed in this section would be recognized under Activity 530 – Flood Protection, although it
would be very hard to qualify a dredging project. Credit points are based on the type of project,
how many buildings are protected, and the level of flood protection provided.
9.1.7 Local Implementation
Seminole County has evaluated and implemented several structural projects to address localized
and regional flooding concerns, with a focus on enhancing conveyance, protecting critical
infrastructure, and reducing flood risks for residential areas. These efforts are coordinated with
state and federal partners and are guided by the goals outlined in the County’s Local Mitigation
and Resileincy Strategy (LMRS) and Floodplain Management Plan (FMP).
One of the County’s long-standing structural initiatives is the Mullet Lake Road Stormwater
Improvement Project, designed to address flooding in the St. Johns River and Lake Harney
Basins. This area of eastern Seminole County includes a drainage basin of approximately 2,890
acres (4.5 square miles). Residents in the Mullet Lake Park Road area have historically
experienced recurrent yard and structural flooding during moderate to heavy rainfall events.
The initial drainage study, completed in 2006, identified two primary causes of the persistent
flooding:
• Inadequate conveyance capacity in the existing infrastructure, and
• Accumulation of upstream runoff, which overwhelms the downstream system.
While the project was originally delayed due to grant eligibility constraints, Seminole County
has since pursued phased implementation. The County has continued to seek Hazard Mitigation
Grant Program (HMGP) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) funding, along with Florida
Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) cost-share opportunities, to move the project
forward.
As of 2025, the project remains in the pre-construction phase, with design and permitting
underway for key drainage improvements, including culvert upgrades, ditch regrading, and the
potential addition of detention features to mitigate peak runoff volumes and improve
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conveyance. These improvements are expected to directly reduce flood risk for dozens of
residential properties and help the County meet CRS Activity 530 (Drainage System
Maintenance) and Activity 540 (Drainage Improvements) credit criteria.
Estimated at more than $26M in proposed improvements, the Midway Drainage Improvement
Project will transform the community. Flooding has been a concern in the Midway community
for years. During the recently completed basin study, residents shared their experiences and
concerns and helped the County identify specific locations prone to flooding.
New stormwater management facilities and additional and upsized stormwater collection and
conveyance systems will be constructed throughout the Midway Basin. Additionally, a new
sidewalk will be constructed along Main Street from Sipes Avenue to Beardall Avenue. The
project will reduce flooding and improve water quality in the Midway Community as well as
provide sidewalk for pedestrian safety along Main Street. The project is currently in the design
phase.
In addition to this effort, Seminole County Public Works has completed the following recent
structural flood mitigation projects that align with the objectives of this plan:
• Soldier Creek Regional Stormwater Facility (2022–2024): This multi-phase project
improved flood attenuation and water quality treatment capacity for runoff entering
Soldier Creek, benefiting both flood-prone neighborhoods and the downstream aquatic
environment. It incorporated best management practices (BMPs) that support CRS credit
for natural channel protection.
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• Howell Creek Watershed Improvements – Phase I (Completed 2023): Included upgrades
to outfalls and culverts, as well as the addition of a new regional detention basin to
mitigate stormwater impacts in a rapidly developing urban corridor.
• Lake Harney Road Drainage Improvements (In Progress): Under design as of 2025, this
project will include regraded ditches and upgraded driveway culverts to enhance outfall
capacity in this repeatedly flooded area, which was impacted during Hurricane Ian in
2022.
Seminole County continues to evaluate new project opportunities annually through the
Resiliency Working Group, prioritizing those that provide the greatest cost-benefit ratio, support
floodplain management goals, and can leverage available state and federal mitigation funding.
Projects that incorporate multi-use open space, natural channel restoration, or green
infrastructure elements are prioritized to both reduce flood risk and support CRS Activity 420
(Open Space Preservation) and Activity 510 (Floodplain Management Planning).
9.2 Conclusions
• Seminole County should continue to require on-site retention and detention systems for
all new development and redevelopment to ensure post-development runoff does not
exceed pre-development conditions. This practice remains critical for protecting the
downstream drainage system from being overloaded, supporting compliance with the
County’s Land Development Code and stormwater management goals, and contributing
to long-term flood risk reduction.
• Regional stormwater facilities—particularly upper watershed retention and detention
basins—should be more actively considered and pursued to reduce downstream
conveyance burdens and manage cumulative impacts of development. These types of
projects can provide significant flood attenuation benefits and can be prioritized through
updates to the Local Mitigation Strategy and Stormwater Master Plan. When designed to
include multi-functional open space or natural system restoration, they may also support
CRS credit under Activities 420 and 530.
• Levees and floodwalls are generally not feasible or appropriate flood control strategies
for Seminole County due to topographic constraints, high cost, and the extensive
maintenance requirements associated with these structures. Most areas in need of flood
protection are located on or adjacent to private property, which presents significant
challenges in terms of access, easements, permitting, and long-term upkeep. Furthermore,
these measures pose residual risk from overtopping or failure during extreme events,
which can increase downstream damages.
• Channel improvements should be evaluated cautiously, with both the short-term benefits
of improved conveyance and the long-term costs and environmental impacts considered.
While some localized channel maintenance or regrading may offer flood relief, poorly
designed or overly aggressive channelization can increase downstream erosion, reduce
baseflow, and degrade habitat. Nature-based solutions and properly vegetated or
stabilized channel sections offer more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives.
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9.3 Recommendations
Continue to require developers to design and construct on-site detention and retention facilities
to ensure post-development runoff does not exceed pre-development conditions. This
requirement, consistent with the Seminole County Land Development Code and stormwater
standards, helps reduce localized and downstream flooding and supports CRS credit under
Activity 430 (Higher Regulatory Standards).
Evaluate opportunities for implementing regional, upper watershed detention and retention
basins to mitigate downstream conveyance challenges. These projects should be integrated into
the County’s stormwater planning and hazard mitigation programs, with consideration for dual-
use benefits such as passive recreation, habitat restoration, and open space preservation in line
with CRS Activity 420 (Open Space Preservation).Incorporate the results of drainage studies and
capital improvement planning into project development and prioritization processes, especially
for stormwater and localized flooding issues identified in repetitive loss areas or known problem
basins. Where feasible, project designs should favor nature-based solutions and be structured to
support long-term CRS credit under Activities 530 (Drainage System Maintenance) and 540
(Drainage Improvements).
9.4 References
1. CRS Coordinator’s Manual, FEMA, 2021.
2. CRS Credit for Floodplain Management Planning (Activity 510), FEMA, 2021.
3. CRS Credit for Drainage System Maintenance (Activity 530), FEMA, 2021.
4. Seminole County Public Works – Stormwater Division, Capital Improvement Program
(CIP), 2025.
5. Mullet Lake Park Road Stormwater Improvement Project, Inwood Consulting Engineers,
2006.
6. Seminole County Land Development Code, Chapter 30 – Development Design Standards,
current through July 2025.
7. Seminole County Local Mitigation and Resiliency Strategy (LMRS), 2025 Update
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10 Public Information Measures
A successful hazard mitigation program involves both the public and private sectors. Public
information activities advise property owners, renters, and businesses about hazards and ways to
protect people and property from these hazards. These activities can motivate people to take the
steps necessary to protect themselves and others.
Information can bring about voluntary mitigation activities at little or no cost to the government.
Property owners mitigated their flooding problems long before government funding programs
existed. The typical approach to delivering information involves two levels of activity. The first
is to broadcast a short and simple version of the message to everyone potentially affected. The
second level provides more detailed information to those who respond and want to learn more.
This chapter starts with activities that reach out to people and tell them to be advised of the
hazards and some of the things they can do. It then covers additional sources of information for
those who want to learn more. It ends with an overall public information strategy.
10.1 Outreach Projects
Outreach projects are the first step in the process of orienting property owners to the hazards they
face and the concept of property protection. They are designed to encourage people to seek out
more information in order to take steps to protect themselves and their properties.
Research has shown that outreach projects work. However, awareness of the hazard is not
enough; people need to be told what they can do about the hazard, so projects should include
information on safety, health and property protection measures. Research has also shown that a
properly run local information program is more effective than national advertising or publicity
campaigns. Therefore, outreach projects should be locally designed and tailored to meet local
conditions.
Community newsletters/direct mailings: The most effective types of outreach projects are
mailed or distributed to everyone in the community. In the case of floods, they can be sent only
to floodplain property owners.
News media: Local newspapers can be strong allies in efforts to inform the public. Press releases
and story ideas may be all that’s needed to whet their interest. After a flood in another
community, people and the media become interested in their flood hazard and how to protect
themselves and their property. Local radio stations and cable TV channels can also help. These
media offer interview formats and local television stations may be willing to broadcast videos on
the hazards.
Other approaches: Examples of other outreach projects include:
• Presentations at meetings of neighborhood, civic or business groups,
• Displays in public buildings or shopping malls,
• Signs in parks, along trails and on waterfronts that explain the natural features (such as
the river) and their relation to the hazards (such as floods),
• Brochures available in municipal buildings and libraries, and
• Special meetings, workshops and seminars.
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10.1.1 Local Implementation
Seminole County implements a variety of public
outreach projects to increase awareness of flood risk,
promote safety measures, and encourage property
protection actions
Key local outreach initiatives include:
• Flood Safety Web Content: Seminole County maintains
a comprehensive Flood Information webpage that
provides residents with information on flood hazards,
safety tips, property protection measures, flood
insurance, and County floodplain regulations.
• Hurricane and Flood Preparedness Campaigns: The
County coordinates public outreach before and during
hurricane season through an annual Hurricane Action
Day and “Touch a Truck” preparedness event. These
events provide interactive opportunities for residents to
engage with emergency response agencies, receive
hurricane kits, and gather educational materials on
flood and storm safety.
• Flood Awareness Week: Seminole County formally recognizes Flood Awareness Week
each spring through a Board of County Commissioners proclamation. Throughout the
week, the County delivers targeted messaging through social media, billboards, the
County website, and in-person events. Messaging includes flood insurance promotion,
stormwater and drainage system education, and personal mitigation steps residents can
take to reduce risk. Materials are developed in coordination with the Seminole County
Office of Emergency Management, Watershed Management Division, and
Communications Department.
• Printed Educational Materials: Brochures including A Guide to Flood Safety, Protecting
Your Property from Flood Damage, and The Benefits of Flood Insurance are distributed
at community events, posted in public libraries, and available in County offices such as
the Building Division and Environmental Services Department.
• News and Emergency Alerts: The Seminole County website and social media platforms
are used to distribute real-time safety updates and preparedness tips ahead of and during
flood events. Press releases and emergency alerts convey information on evacuation
routes, shelter openings, road closures, and protective actions.
• Billboard Messaging: During hurricane season and other critical periods, the County
contracts with local billboard operators to promote flood preparation, alert residents to
flood risk, and encourage the purchase of flood insurance. Messages are tailored to
emphasize local risk and action steps residents can take.
These efforts are developed and coordinated by Seminole County’s Communications Division in
partnership with Emergency Management, Watershed Management, and Planning &
Development.
Figure 47: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20531: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20532: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20533: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20534: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20535: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20536: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20537: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20538: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20539: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
Figure 20540: Flood Safety Brochure
Distributed to Residents during
Outreach Events
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Seminole County Floodplain Management Plan 140
10.1.2 CRS Credit
The Community Rating System provides up to 350 points for outreach projects on flood topics.
Extra points are given for having a Program for Public Information.
10.2 Real Estate Disclosure
Many property owners state after a flood or other natural disaster that they would have taken
steps to protect themselves had they known their property was located in a flood-prone area.
Disclosure of flood hazards during real estate transactions is an essential tool in helping buyers
make informed decisions and encourage flood mitigation actions before damage occurs.
Federal Disclosure Requirements
Under federal law, federally regulated or insured lending institutions must determine whether a
structure securing a mortgage loan is located within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), as
shown on FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). If the structure is in an SFHA, flood
insurance is mandatory as a condition of the loan. However, this determination is only required
to be disclosed to the buyer within 10 days prior to closing. By this point, many buyers are
already financially and emotionally committed to the purchase, reducing the likelihood they will
alter their decision or take preventive action.
Florida State Law
Florida law requires the seller of real property to disclose known facts that materially affect the
value of the property, including whether the property is in a flood zone. Additionally, Chapter
689.261, Florida Statutes, requires sellers to provide a natural hazards disclosure statement that
identifies if the property is in a flood hazard area, wetlands, or coastal erosion zone. However,
because flooding can be sporadic and flood maps may not capture all risk, sellers may not be
aware of or may underestimate the extent of risk associated with a property. Furthermore, Florida
does not currently require a standardized, detailed flood risk disclosure form at the time of sale,
as is required in some other states.
10.2.1 Local Implementation
In Seminole County, the primary real estate disclosure requirement is found in the Seminole
County Land Development Code. Per Chapter 35, Section 35.42, final subdivision plats must
delineate the limits of the 1% annual chance flood (100-year floodplain), including flood
elevation data, where applicable. This requirement helps inform future buyers of known flood
hazards—but only for properties located within newer subdivisions recorded after the adoption
of this requirement.
Limitations remain in the broader real estate market:
• The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) used by real estate professionals in Seminole County
does not uniformly require or display flood zone designations or flood insurance
requirements for listed properties.
• Disclosure practices outside of County-required platting are left largely to individual
brokers and real estate agents.
• Properties developed before the floodplain delineation requirements went into effect may
lack clearly documented risk indicators.
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• Buyers often rely on title searches and survey information, which may or may not clearly
indicate flood hazard information unless specifically requested.
Ongoing Efforts and Opportunities
Seminole County promotes public access to flood hazard information through the Flood
Information Map Viewer on the Watershed Management website, which allows real estate
professionals and residents to search any address in the County to determine flood zone status.
10.2.2 CRS Credit
Communities in Florida should be eligible for five points under the “Other disclosure
requirements” for the state law requiring sellers to notify the buyer of natural hazards. Seminole
County is eligible for 5 points for including the limits of the flood plain on all final plats.
10.3 Libraries and Websites
Identifying flood risk is the first step; the next is providing the public with access to reliable and
actionable information about hazard protection, flood mitigation, and natural resource
conservation. Seminole County utilizes both public libraries and its website to distribute this
information to residents, property owners, and professionals.
Public Libraries
Seminole County’s five public library branches—North Branch, Northwest Branch, West
Branch, East Branch, and the Central Library in Casselberry—serve as key locations for sharing
printed hazard-related materials with the public. Each branch maintains a physical collection of
brochures and pamphlets on topics such as:
• Flood insurance and flood protection measures
• Hurricane and severe weather preparedness
• Retrofitting for flood, wind, and wildfire hazards
• Protecting natural floodplain functions
These materials are regularly reviewed and restocked by Seminole County Emergency
Management and Watershed Management staff, particularly before and during the Atlantic
hurricane season (June 1 – November 30). Many of these resources are obtained for free from
FEMA, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), and the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP).
The County also coordinates with library staff to promote hazard awareness displays during
Flood Awareness Week in March and Hurricane Season Preparedness Month in May. These
displays may include books, handouts, posters, and digital resources to help patrons better
understand flood risk and personal preparedness strategies.
Seminole County Websites
The Seminole County website (https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov) serves as a central hub for
up-to-date floodplain management, emergency preparedness, and environmental protection
information:
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• Flood Information Map Viewer – Allows users to enter their address and view their
property’s flood zone designation, access Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), and
obtain elevation certificate guidance.
• Arkly Flood Risk Portal – Through Seminole County’s Flood Information Map Viewer,
residents can access the Arkly platform, an interactive flood risk tool that provides
property-specific information including flood zone, base flood elevation, historical claims
data, and estimated flood insurance premiums. The tool helps residents better understand
their individual flood risk and explore mitigation and insurance options in an accessible,
user-friendly format.
• Watershed Management Flood Info Page – Offers information on flood risk, mitigation
measures, elevation requirements, and permits for construction in the floodplain.
• Emergency Management Hurricane and Severe Weather Page – Contains real-time
updates and preparedness tips for hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and wildfires.
• Disaster Preparedness Hub – Guides residents through emergency kit development,
evacuation zones, shelter locations, and special needs registration.
• CRS and Floodplain Management Information – Includes this Floodplain Management
Plan and Local Mitigation Strategy, available for download to the public.
The County maintains partnerships with FEMA, NOAA, and FloridaDisaster.org by linking to
their resources. These external resources provide guidance for floodproofing homes,
understanding flood insurance, and preparing family emergency plans.
Seminole County also links to educational resources for children and families, including:
• FEMA’s Ready Kids – A child-friendly website offering games, preparedness lessons,
and disaster safety checklists.
10.3.1 Local Implementation
A review of the Seminole County Public Library catalog in July 2025 indicates that the library
system maintains a diverse and updated collection of resources on natural hazards. This includes
over 40 publications related to flooding and more than 100 publications about hurricanes. Topics
range from floodproofing and resilient construction practices to flood insurance, floodplain
management policy, and guidance for interpreting FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).
These resources support residents, contractors, and professionals in understanding and preparing
for flood risks.
The County also maintains a comprehensive and regularly updated website at
www.prepareseminole.org. This site provides timely hazard and emergency information,
educational materials, and updates on County programs and planning efforts, including the Local
Mitigation Strategy, Floodplain Management Plan, and Resiliency initiatives. It includes sections
dedicated to flood safety, storm preparation, insurance guidance, and recovery information.
Residents can also access FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and flood zone
information through the Flood Prone Areas page on the County’s official website:
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/departments-services/development-services/building/flood-
prone-areas/
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This page links directly to the Flood Information Map Viewer, powered by Arkly, which
provides parcel-specific flood risk data, including base flood elevations, flood zone designations,
and estimated insurance premiums, further empowering residents to make informed decisions
about property protection and mitigation.
10.3.2 CRS Credit
The Community Rating System provides up to 20 points for having a variety of flood references
in the local public library and up to 77 more for similar material on municipal websites (Activity
350 – Flood Protection Information).
10.4 Technical Assistance
10.4.1 Hazard Information
Providing map information is a valuable public service that enables residents, property owners,
businesses, and real estate professionals to better understand flood risks. Knowledge of whether
a property lies within a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or other mapped hazard area allows
individuals to make informed decisions regarding flood insurance, building regulations, and
property protection measures.
Seminole County provides FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance
Study (FIS) information through several channels:
• Residents may access digital flood maps on the County’s official floodplain mapping
page: www.seminolecountyfl.gov/floodprone.
• Printed flood maps are available upon request through the Building Division.
• Staff are trained to assist residents with basic flood map inquiries, such as:
o Whether a property is located in an SFHA.
o The applicable flood zone designation.
o Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data, where available.
o Whether mandatory flood insurance requirements apply.
o General guidance on submitting a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) or Letter
of Map Revision (LOMR).
Staff may also supplement FEMA map data with information from other sources, such as known
repetitive loss areas, localized drainage concerns, or flood elevations from historical flood
events. Importantly, residents are reminded that being outside of the FEMA-mapped floodplain
does not eliminate flood risk.
10.4.2 Property Protection Assistance
In addition to general outreach and online resources, Seminole County provides one-on-one
property protection assistance to residents and businesses seeking to reduce their vulnerability to
flooding or other hazards.
The County's Building Division offers technical guidance on:
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• Site visits to identify flood risk and recommend mitigation measures.
• Recommendations for licensed contractors familiar with flood-resistant construction
practices.
• Evaluation of anchoring and structural connections for manufactured homes and roofing
systems.
• Guidance on protecting windows and garage doors from wind damage.
• Explanation of when building permits are required for mitigation projects.
Although County staff do not provide detailed design services, they help residents navigate the
process and refer them to reputable resources and certified professionals.
FEMA offers national training resources that Seminole County encourages both staff and
residents to utilize. These include:
• FEMA Emergency Management Institute’s E273: "Managing Floodplain Development
through the NFIP."
• Retrofitting workshops hosted periodically by FEMA or the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
These training opportunities build staff capacity and ensure consistency with federal best
practices.
10.4.3 Local Implementation
Seminole County implements this activity through multiple public-facing programs:
• The Building Division provides in-person and digital flood map assistance upon request.
• Staff respond to inquiries by phone, email, or in person during regular business hours.
• All services are promoted via the County’s website (www.prepareseminole.org) and
through brochures and event outreach, such as during Flood Awareness Week or the
annual Hurricane Expo.
• Flood mapping software such as FEMA FIRMs and Arkly.com are made available via the
county website.
10.4.4 CRS Credit
The Community Rating System provides 140 points for providing map information to inquirers.
Up to 71 points are available for providing one-on-one flood protection assistance to residents
and businesses and for making site visits. Both services must be publicized.
10.5 Program for Public Information
The Program for Public Information (PPI) is a structured, ongoing effort by Seminole County to
plan, implement, and evaluate public outreach efforts that promote flood awareness, flood
insurance coverage, and protection of natural floodplain functions. The PPI is designed around
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locally identified risks and target audiences, ensuring that the most relevant messages are
conveyed through the most effective channels.
The Community Rating System (CRS) provides credit under Activity 330 – Outreach Projects,
with additional bonus points for communities that develop a formal, stakeholder-driven PPI. The
PPI must be documented, adopted, and updated regularly in coordination with a committee that
includes both government and non-government stakeholders.
Key Elements of Seminole County’s PPI Strategy:
• Assess Local Public Information Needs:
The County evaluates current knowledge gaps, repetitive loss data, flood insurance
coverage trends, and the needs of specific audience segments (e.g., residents in flood-
prone areas, non-English speakers, renters, real estate agents).
• Formulate Key Messages:
Flood safety and mitigation messages are based on CRS requirements and local risk
profiles. Seminole County’s priority messages include:
o Know your flood risk.
o Purchase and maintain flood insurance.
o Protect your property from flood damage.
o Preserve natural floodplain functions.
o Understand evacuation zones and routes.
o Know how to prepare before a flood or hurricane.
• Identify and Execute Outreach Projects:
Outreach is conducted through a variety of media, including the County website, social
media, printed brochures, utility bill inserts, digital signage, and community events such
as:
o Flood Awareness Week
o The annual Hurricane Expo
o Public meetings and workshops
• Coordinate with Other Public Information Initiatives:
Seminole County coordinates its messaging with partners such as local municipalities,
Seminole County Public Schools, the St. Johns River Water Management District, and
regional floodplain management partners. The County also ensures alignment with
Florida’s Division of Emergency Management and FEMA outreach efforts.
• Document and Adopt the Program:
The PPI is developed in accordance with CRS requirements and reviewed by the
Floodplain Management Planning Committee, which also functions as the PPI
Committee. The PPI is formally documented and incorporated into the County’s
Floodplain Management Plan and referenced in the Local Mitigation Strategy.
• Implement, Monitor, and Evaluate:
The PPI is reviewed annually as part of the Floodplain Management Plan evaluation
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process. Outreach project performance is assessed based on participation metrics, public
survey responses, and flood insurance policy data. Updates are made to refine message
delivery and improve effectiveness.
10.5.1 Public Information Topics
A key part of the FMP planning process was to obtain input from the public, particularly
residents and businesses that have been affected by natural hazards. The public was invited to
participate in the process in the following ways:
• Attending and participating in meetings of the FMPC. Five meetings were held in total.
Five (5) members of the FMPC are appointed citizens from each of the Seminole County
Commissioner’s Districts to promote diverse public involvement.
• Contact with committee members.
• Letters mailed to repetitive loss areas regarding flood awareness, floodplain management
planning involvement and potential mitigation opportunities as part of Seminole County’s
Flood Awareness Week campaign held the first week of March annually, in coordination
with the Florida Floodplain Managers Association
• Public meetings held on March 27th, 2025, at the NW Branch Library) and the North
Branch Library on August 20th, 2025, planning process to gain public input on the draft
plan.
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Flood Safety
Pay attention to evacuation orders. Listen to local radio or TV stations for forecasts and emergency warnings. Know about
evacuation routes and nearby shelters and have plans for all family members on how to evacuate and where to meet if you’re
split up during an emergency.
Do not drive through a flooded area. During a flood, more people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around
road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Do not walk through flowing water. Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. Currents can be
deceptive; 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet in a strong current. If you walk in standing water, use a sti ck to
help you locate the ground.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. Electrical currents can travel through water. Report downed power lines to
the police or sheriff by calling 911.
Have the power company turn off your electricity. Some appliances, like TV sets, keep electrical charges even after they’ve
been unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris like broken bottles and nails. Floors and
stairs that are covered with mud can also be slippery.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you
know the gas has been shut off and the area has been ventilated.
Look out for animals that may have been flooded out of their homes and who may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to
turn things over and scare away small animals.
Carbon monoxide exhaust kills. Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping
stoves. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly – cook with charcoal outdoors.
Clean everything that got wet in the flood. Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories,
and storage buildings. Spoiled food, and flooded cosmetics and medicines can be health hazards. When in doubt, throw it out.
Take care of yourself. Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit and the effects a disaster
has on you and your family may last a long time.
Flood Safety
Pay attention to evacuation orders. Listen to local radio or TV stations for forecasts and emergency warnings. Know about
evacuation routes and nearby shelters and have plans for all family members on how to evacuate and where to meet if you’re
split up during an emergency.
Do not drive through a flooded area. During a flood, more people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around
road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Do not walk through flowing water. Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S. Currents can be
deceptive; 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet in a strong current. If you walk in standing water, use a sti ck to
help you locate the ground.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. Electrical currents can travel through water. Report downed power lines to
the police or sheriff by calling 911.
Have the power company turn off your electricity. Some appliances, like TV sets, keep electrical charges even after they’ve
been unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris like broken bottles and nails. Floors and
stairs that are covered with mud can also be slippery.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you
know the gas has been shut off and the area has been ventilated.
Look out for animals that may have been flooded out of their homes and who may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to
turn things over and scare away small animals.
Carbon monoxide exhaust kills. Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping
stoves. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly – cook with charcoal outdoors.
Clean everything that got wet in the flood. Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories,
and storage buildings. Spoiled food, and flooded cosmetics and medicines can be health hazards. When in doubt, throw it out.
Take care of yourself. Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit and the effects a disaster
has on you and your family may last a long time.
Flood Safety
Pay attention to evacuation orders. Listen to local radio or TV stations for forecasts and emergency warnings. Know about
evacuation routes and nearby shelters and have plans for all family members on how to evacuate and where to meet if you’re
split up during an emergency.
Do not drive through a flooded area. During a flood, more people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around
road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
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10.5.2 CRS Credit
The CRS provides 100 points for a public information program strategy. A mass mailing to all
properties can earn up to 60 more points and can meet the publicity requirements to receive
credit for several other activities.
10.6 Conclusions
1. There are many ways that public information can be used so that people and businesses will
be more aware of the hazards they face and how they can protect themselves.
2. Many of the public information activities can be implemented by community staff. By
creating and implementing a Program for Public Information, the County and its jurisdictions
can earn additional credit points through the CRS.
3. Outreach projects, libraries, websites and the Hurricane Expo are currently being used as
public information tools in Seminole County.
4. The most important topics to cover in public information activities are:
• Safety precautions for all types of hazards, but especially storms, floods and fog.
Evacuation is recognized as the most important safety precaution for tropical storms and
hurricanes.
• Flood protection measures, including rules for new construction and insurance.
• Keeping drainage ways clear and protection from local drainage problems.
• Family and emergency preparedness measures.
• County resources and programs.
• Protecting water quality and wetlands and the benefits of open space.
The most appropriate ways to spread this information are:
• Websites and social media
• Mailings to everyone, in utility bills or otherwise
• News releases or newspaper articles
• Newsletters
• Displays, particularly at special events such as the Hurricane Expo or Touch A Truck
• Handouts, flyers and other materials, which can distributed at special events and
presentations
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10.7 Recommendations
1. The County should continue to increase its presence on social media, including Facebook,
Instagram and NextDoor, to maximize the number of people reached with flood hazard and
safety information.
2. The County should continue to distribute brochures about hurricanes to those living in the
mapped floodplain.
3. The County should continue to hold outreach events such as Hurricane Action Day, and
Touch a Truck events.
4. Staff should reach out to homeowners’ associations and faith-based organizations to help
spread the word about flood hazards and safety measures.
5. The County should create and implement a multi-jurisdictional Program for Public
Information (PPI) for credit under the CRS.
10.8 References
1. Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness, FEMA, 2004 (updated from 2002).
https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/individuals-communities/are-you-ready
(FEMA’s comprehensive guide for household disaster planning and response.)
2. CRS Coordinator’s Manual, FEMA National Flood Insurance Program, 2021 Addendum.
https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/community-rating-system
(Primary CRS guidance document for Activity 330 – Outreach Projects, Activity 350 – Flood
Protection Information, and Activity 370 – Flood Insurance Promotion.)
3. CRS Credit for Outreach Projects, FEMA, 2006.
(Still a relevant technical supplement, though partially superseded by updates in the 2021
Coordinator’s Manual.)
4. Seminole County Flood-Prone Areas Map Resource Page, Seminole County Building
Division, 2025.
https://www.seminolecountyfl.gov/departments-services/development-
services/building/flood-prone-areas/
(Provides flood map access and localized floodplain information.)
5. Arkly Property Flood Disclosure Tool, Florida Department of Environmental Protection /
Arkly Technologies, 2025.
https://floridafloodresources.org
(Linked from Seminole County’s flood information page; supports consumer flood zone
lookups and disclosure awareness.)
6. Seminole County Emergency Management: PrepareSeminole.org, 2025.
https://www.prepareseminole.org
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(The County’s hub for emergency preparedness, outreach content, and mitigation planning
updates.)
11 Revisions and Maintenance
Development trends and land use changes that may impact existing infrastructure or increase
vulnerability to flooding and other hazards;
Hazard events, such as hurricanes, tropical storms, or localized flooding, that reveal new or
evolving risk areas within Seminole County;
Completion of mitigation actions and incorporation of newly identified strategies, goals, or
projects;
Modifications to County policy, procedures, or ordinances, including updates to the Seminole
County Land Development Code or Comprehensive Plan;
Revisions to building codes and construction practices, especially those impacting floodplain
development or resiliency measures;
Legislative or funding changes at the federal, state, or local level that influence hazard
mitigation program implementation;
Updates to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) or National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
policies that alter floodplain boundaries or insurance requirements.
The Office of Emergency Management prepares an Annual Progress Report for the FMP. This
report evaluates the implementation status of mitigation actions, identifies successes, and notes
areas for improvement. The report is made available to the public via the Seminole County
website and is distributed to all participating jurisdictions. This report also fulfills Community
Rating System (CRS) requirements under Activity 510 – Floodplain Management Planning,
which mandates an annual evaluation and documentation of plan progress.
The FMP is formally reviewed and re-adopted every five years by the governing bodies of all
participating jurisdictions. This five-year review ensures that mitigation actions remain aligned
with each jurisdiction’s strategic goals, comprehensive planning priorities, and community-
specific needs. As part of the adoption process, jurisdictions reaffirm their commitment to
implementing, refining, and expanding the mitigation initiatives outlined in the FMP.
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
Special Flood Hazard Ordinance
1 The County staff should review all development ordinance language pertaining to
development in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) that would require new/improved
infrastructure to have hazard mitigation provisions.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services
Deadline October2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.2
Project Status
Notes
Open Space Preservation
2 The County should use every opportunity to encourage preservation of floodplain areas as
open space or other uses compatible with the flooding hazard to preserve floodplain storage
capacity and reduce the potential for damage to structures.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.3
Project Status
Notes
3 Evaluate Increasing Higher Standards
The County should continue to enforce its existing regulations for development and mobile
homes and explore the cost and benefits of other higher standards to further protect the
residents of Seminole County, such as a higher freeboard requirements.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.2
Project Status
Notes
4 Promote and Distribute Homeowner Property Evaluation Checklist
Promote and distribute the Homeowners Property Evaluation Checklist. Vulnerable
Populations, other languages, links on websites, during permit distribution, local media
outlets, realtors, insurance agencies, banking institutions.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services and Office of Emergency
Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
Project Status 3.1
Notes
5 Cost Sharing Programs
Seminole County should evaluate potential cost sharing programs both public and private,
such as grants, rebates, tax, insurance credits, to encourage low cost property protection
measures on private property. For example:
• Surface and subsurface drainage improvements,
• Berms and regrading for shallow surface flooding, and
• Relocating equipment as per code above the base flood elevation
• May offer free permit to citizens for flood mitigation measures
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time/ Grants
FMP Goal &
Objective
4.1
Project Status
Notes
6 Funding Options
The County should seek state and federal funding support for higher cost measures, such as
elevation, relocation and acquisition of high priority properties. Mitigation funding
opportunities should be investigated for all eligible properties. High priority properties are:
• Those properties in repetitive loss areas.
• Critical facilities in the special flood hazard area or subject to flood depths of more than two
feet.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Office of Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Grants
FMP Goal &
Objective
4.1, 4.2, 5.1 & 5.2
Project Status
Notes
7 Water Management Ordinance
Seminole County should continue to enforce the floodplain management, wetland protection,
erosion and sediment control and Best Management Practices (BMP) provisions of all water
management ordinances.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services and Seminole County Public
Works
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.4
Project Status
Notes
8 Emergency Operations Plan
The Seminole County Emergency Operations Plan should be reviewed in detail on an annual
basis to determine where updates and improvements can be made and how to maximize credit
under CRS. The Plan should then be submitted periodically for credit under CRS, and CRS
will provide a critique of the plan to show what further improvements are needed.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
4.2
Project Status
Notes
9 Gauge Funding
The County should pursue all possible local, state federal and other funding options for
installation of additional and/or improved lake, stream, river gauges to provide a higher level
of protection to its residents. The investigation of additional gauging stations should be done
in cooperation with the National Weather Service, St. Johns River Water Management
District, the United States Geological Survey and FEMA.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Public Works and Office of Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Grants/ General Funds
FMP Goal &
Objective
2.2
Project Status
Notes
10 Review and Update Post- Disaster Emergency Permitting
The County’s emergency management, public information, and permitting teams should
collaborate to formalize post-disaster procedures specifically related to flood response and
recovery. These procedures should address public outreach, reconstruction regulations within
flood-prone areas, and the identification of potential flood mitigation projects. These concepts
should be expanded upon, refined, and adopted as a clearly defined set of policies and
procedures within the framework of the Floodplain Management Plan.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
3.1
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
Project Status
Notes
11 Continued On-Site Detention and Retention and Evaluation of County Maintenance of
Facilities
The County should continue to require developers to provide on-site detention and retention
to lessen the volume and/or rate of runoff from developed sites. The County should evaluate
the inspection and maintenance of these facilities to ensure that the designed storage is
maintained and outfalls and piping remain in good condition.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services and Seminole County Public
Works
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.6
Project Status
Notes
12 Regional Detention
The County should consider the benefits of upper watershed regional detention as a way to
reduce downstream flow. This approach could be combined with the preservation of open
space.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Development Services
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time/ Grants
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.3
Project Status
Notes
13 Outreach Projects for Flood Hazard Mitigation Benefits
The public and decision makers should be informed about the flood hazard mitigation benefits
of restoring rivers, wetlands and other natural areas. Restoration and protection techniques
should be explained. This should include publicizing the need to protect lakes, streams, rivers
and wetlands from illegal dumping and/or filling and inappropriate development. This
campaign can be conducted through direct mail, website development, and/or neighborhood
meetings.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Environmental Services
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.4
Project Status
Notes
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
14 Outreach Projects for Property Protection
Public education materials should be developed to explain property protection measures that
can help owners reduce their exposure to damage by floods and the various types of insurance
that are available. Because properties in floodplains may be damaged at some point, a special
effort should be made to provide information and advice to floodplain property owners.
Special attention should be given to repetitive loss and high hazard areas. Explore local
incentives for voluntary protection measures. This can be accomplished through the
following techniques:
• The County’s website should be improved to make navigation to flood hazard and safety
information more intuitive.
• The County should increase its presence on social media, such as Facebook and NextDoor,
to maximize the number of people reached with flood hazard and safety information.
• The County should continue to distribute brochures about hurricanes to those living in the
mapped floodplain.
• The County should continue to hold and expand Hurricane Action Day, Severe Weather
Awareness Week, and Flood Awareness Week.
• Staff should reach out to homeowners’ associations and faith-based organizations to help
spread the word about flood hazards and protection and safety measures.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Office of Emergency Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
3.2 & 3.3
Project Status
Notes
15 Public Information Strategy
The County should maintain a public information outreach program strategy for credit under
the CRS and to prepare a program that evaluates the County’s current outreach program to
identify strengths and areas of improvement.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Office of Communications and Office of Emergency
Management
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
3.2
Project Status
Notes
16 Critical Facility Protection
Identify critical facilities whose functionality may be impacted by flood hazards and develop
mitigation measures for protection.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Office of Emergency Management and Seminole County
Development Services
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time / Grants
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
FMP Goal &
Objective
4.2
Project Status
Notes
17 Identify Stormwater and Address Flooding
Update the Seminole County Stormwater Master plan to identify new mitigation projects
utilizing historical flood, rainfall data and modeling
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Roads and Stormwater
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time / Grants
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.1
Project Status Not started
Notes
18 Floodplain Informed Public Warning System
Enhance public warning systems with floodplain data and allow for emergency notification
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Emergency Management
Deadline December 2026
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
2.1
Project Status Not started
Notes
19 Environmental Protection
The County will continue to review new developments and buildings to protect aquifers and
environmentally sensitive lands within the floodplain.
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Building Division & Public Works
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
1.5
Project Status Continuous
Notes
20 Techonological Advancement
Monitor technological advancements and implement new technologies where applicable to
ensure reliable communications with residents and guests
Responsible
Agency
Seminole County Emergency Management
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
Deadline October 2030
Cost Staff Time / Grants / Other
FMP Goal &
Objective
2.1
Project Status
Notes
21 Public Flood Reporting System
Create electronic reporting on the Seminole County website for residents to submit flooding
reports and drainage to Public Works and Emergency Management
Responsible
Agency
Deadline December 2036
Cost Staff Time
FMP Goal &
Objective
5.3
Project Status
Notes
Goals
Goal 1: Reduce vulnerability and exposure to flood hazards in order to protect the lives, health,
safety, and property of Seminole County residents and guests.
Objective 1.1: Focus mitigation efforts on flooding resulting from heavy rainfall which
causes runoff, overbank, backwater, and stormwater issues to keep the
problem from getting worse
Objective 1.2: Implement regulatory measures to guide new development in areas that are
more likely to be exposed to the effects of flood damage
Objective 1.3: Preserve open space in Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) areas, especially
where there are sensitive natural areas and agricultural lands
Objective 1.4: Protect the environmental integrity of the natural water systems in Seminole
County by focusing on water quality and best management practices
Objectives 1.5: Continue to protect aquifers and environmentally sensitive lands from
encroachment of development by requiring buffers and other setbacks
mechanisms
Objective 1.6: Reduce stormwater runoff through adequate stormwater management, flood
control, on-site retention and best management practices to mitigate impacts
associated with incremental construction and redevelopment projects
Goal 2: Enhance public education, information, and warning systems to improve safety and
communication for the protection of residents and visitors of Seminole County.
Objective 2.1: Leverage state and federal emergency management funding for planning,
training and equipment
2025-2030 Floodplain Management Plan Action Items
Objective 2.2: Seek funding for the installation of stream and river gauges to help provide
increased flood warning capability
Goal 3: Encourage property owners through education and outreach measures to protect their
homes and businesses from flood damage.
Objective 3.1: Empower residents to take proactive responsibility for future flood risk
protection and pursuit of mitigation efforts to their property.
Objective 3.2: Promote flood insurance as a property protection measure against flood
damage through multiple methods, including enhancements to the county
website to provide information on comprehensive flood
preparedness/protection and flood insurance
Objective 3.3: Educate property owners, including those with repetitive loss properties, on
mitigation opportunities to mitigate future flood risk.
Goal 4: Protect critical and cultural assets, public infrastructure, and businesses from flood
hazards and reduce the vulnerability of flood damage to these assets.
Objective 4.1: Seek County, Regional, State, Federal, and other funding support for flood
mitigation projects
Objective 4.2: Identify and implement flood mitigation measures or strategies as necessary
to protect critical infrastructure and facilities from flood damage
Goal 5: Identify properties susceptible to flood damage and implement cost-effective and
affordable improvements, including those which reduce the number of repetitively damaged
structures.
Objective 5.1: Leverage mitigation funding opportunities to facilitate buyouts, elevations
and other mitigation efforts to alleviate flood risk
Objective 5.2: Target repetitive loss properties for implementation of mitigation projects
Objective 5.3: Allow continued opportunities for members of the public to be part of the
planning process, including identifying areas susceptible to flooding
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 1
Introduction
Overview
The City of Altamonte Springs was
incorporated in 1920. It is located in the
southern portion of Seminole County,
bordered by Orange County to the south.
The City of Winter Springs is to the east
of Altamonte Springs, the City of
Longwood is to the north, and
unincorporated areas to the west of
Altamonte Springs. Altamonte Springs
currently covers 9.67 square miles. The
current population is 47,313 people
(Bureau of Economic and Business
Research, 2024).
Involvement with the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP)
Altamonte Springs became eligible for
the National Flood Insurance Program’s
(NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS)
on October 1, 1994. The CRS is a
voluntary program for NFIP-participating
communities. The goals of the CRS are
to reduce flood losses, to facilitate
accurate insurance rating, and to
promote the awareness of flood
insurance. The CRS was developed to
encourage communities to go beyond the
minimum NFIP requirements to further
reduce flood losses. The incentives are in
the form of premium discounts.
The City continues to participate in the
CRS program and is currently ranked as
a Class 7. With the Class 7 ranking, the
discount percentage applied to insurance
premiums for properties located in a
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is
15%. The premium discount available to
property owners not located in a SFHA is
5%.
Figure 1. City of Altamonte Springs
Source: Seminole County GIS Dept
Figure 2. Severe Weather
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 2
Risk Assessment
This section of the community profile assesses the potential of risk with respect to
floodplain management in Altamonte Springs. Communities must address four
components when assessing risk. They are identifying hazards, profiling hazard events,
inventorying assets, and estimating losses. This process measures the potential loss of
life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage resulting from natural hazards
by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and infrastructure to natural hazards
(FEMA). There are six categories that address the four components identified in risk
assessment as defined through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
identifying flood zones within the city, identifying surface water locations, identifying
property value within each flood zone, identifying insurance statistics, identifying
vulnerable populations, and identifying critical facilities.
FEMA Flood Zone
Figure 3. FEMA Flood Zone,
Percentage of Acreage for the City of Altamonte Springs, 2025,
Non-Submerged Acres
Figure 3 shows that the percentage of non-submerged acreage found in Altamonte
Springs. Non-submerged acreage refers to land not inundated by surface water. Close to
half of this category can be found in the northeast section of the city in the outlier sections
of Cranes Roost Lake. The largest percentage of non- submerged acreage in Altamonte
Spring is Flood Zone X accounting for 88.11%. The 0.2 percent Annual Chance Flood
Hazard of the 100 Year Flood accounts for 1.82% of the total percentage of non-
submerged acreage. Flood Zone A accounts for 0.43% of total percentage, the majority of
this flood zone is located in the southern segment of Altamonte Springs. Flood Zone AE
accounts for 9.63% of the total percentage of non- submerged acreage. This zone is
found throughout the City.
Zone X; 88.11%
0.2 Pct Annual Chance
Zone A
Zone AE
Zone X
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 3
Surface Water
Table 1. Percentage of Total Surface Water Within City Limits
Surface Water Name Percentage, %
Lake Orienta 21.99
Lake Lotus 20.67
Prairie Lake 11.96
SOURCE: Altamonte Springs GIS Dept.
There are 27 bodies of surface water located in Altamonte Springs. Surface water
accounts for 6.0% of the total land make-up. Table 1 displays the three largest bodies of
water and their percentage of total surface water in Altamonte Springs
All bodies of water are located in or within close proximity of the SFHA.
The vast majority of these lakes are closed basin lakes with no outlets. Rainfall causes
closed basin lakes to rise faster than drain. The result is a variation in water elevation that
can lead to flooding.
Lake Orienta is the City’s largest surface water body accounting for 21.99% (81.6 acres
within the City boundary). The lake is located in the southeast section of the City.
The second largest body of water is Lake Lotus at 20.67% of the total percentage of
surface water. The location of this lake is on the City’s eastern boundaries with the county.
The third largest lake is Prairie Lake, the lake accounts for 11.96% of the total surface water
in Altamonte Springs.
Figure 4. Lake Orienta, Aerial View Figure 5. Prairie Lake
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 4
Property Value
Table 2. Total Appraised Value by Flood Zone
Flood Zone Total Appraised Value
0.2 % Chance $1,029,904,775.00
Zone A $185,160,409.00
Zone AE $4,910,968,279.00
Zone X $4,910,698,279.00
Total $7,516,717,846.00
SOURCE: Altamonte Springs GIS Dept.
Altamonte Springs has over $7,516,717,846.00 in property and building value that could
be at risk in the event of a flood hazard. The 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard
of the 10-year flood contains 16.8% of the total appraised value. Flood Zone A contains
3.5% of the total appraised value. Flood Zone AE comprises 11.5% of the property value
that could be exposed to risk. Flood Zone X accounts for 68.2% of the total property value.
Insurance Statistics
Table 3. Policy Statistics for the City of Altamonte Springs
Polices In-Force Insurance In-Force Whole Written Premium In-Force
854 $189,679,200.00 $475,985.00
Altamonte Springs has 854 insurance policies in force according to the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. The total coverage amounts for these insurance policies
$189,679,200.00 while the average premium paid for them was $475,985.00.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 5
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community considered to be most prone
to risk in the time of a hazard. In Altamonte Springs, 15.22% of the population is over the
age of 65 and 11.2% of the population has a disability. A significant portion of the people
who have a disability are over the age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss properties are defined as those properties that has had two or more flood
insurance claims of more than $1,000 each within any rolling 10-year period since 1978.
This designation can apply to any residential or non-residential building insured by the
NFIP. Altamonte Springs has 26 repetitive loss properties (July 2025).
Manufactured Homes
Figure 6. Manufactured Home Foundations
Source: Livingwithmyhome.com
Chassis are the steel frames of manufactured homes. Block piers and anchors are building
methods utilized to mitigate flood damage.
Altamonte Springs currently has no manufactured homes located within its boundaries.
Manufactured homes located in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) would have to
comply to mitigation regulations that reduce flood damage include elevating the foundation
to one foot above the base flood elevation (BFE). Manufactured homes must also be
anchored to a foundation system to prevent floatation or varying forms of movements.
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those facilities that provide a critical function and should
be protected from flood damage. Altamonte Springs has identified 21 critical facilities
throughout its limits and the emergency function they provide in times of crisis. No facility
is located in the SFHA.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 6
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of
disasters (FEMA). The policies adopted by Altamonte Springs work to achieve these
objectives and prevent flood damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies
including Future Land Use, Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building
Practices all identified through the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development
Code. Altamonte Springs is an active member of the Local Mitigation Strategy and works
to make sure all plans are up to date.
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone for the City of Altamonte Springs
is aggregated below by percentage of total acreage in the specified flood zone. This
analysis reflects the potential hazards that come with planning for growth in flood prone
areas.
Table 5. 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard by Future Land Use (FLU)
Altamonte Springs Future Land Use Percentage, %
Conservation 0.55
Industrial 0.57
Institutional 2.50
Low Density Residential 26.30
Medium Density Residential 20.95
Office/Residential 10.66
RBC Core East 41.53
RBC Core West 3.03
Regional Business Center 2.73
West Town Center 0.79
SOURCE: Altamonte Springs GIS Dept.
In Altamonte Springs, 41.53% of the total percentage of acreage for the 0.2 Percent
Annual Chance Hazard of the 100-year flood is planned for Regional Business Center
Core East. Regional Business Centers and Town Centers are a variation of mixed-use
districts. The second largest future land use for the zone is Low Density Residential at
26.30%. Medium Density Residential developments account for 20.95%. Institutional
composes 2.50 of the total future land use for this flood zone.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 7
Table 6. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use (FLU)
Altamonte Springs Future Land Use Percentage, %
Gateway Center 94.64
Industrial 1.75
Medium Density Residential 3.61
SOURCE: Altamonte Springs GIS Dept.
In Flood Zone A 94.64% of all future land use is planned for the Gateway Activity Center.
This future land use is a variation of a mixed-use district. The remaining future uses are
Medium Density Residential Development at 3.61%. Industrial comprises 1.75% of the
total.
Table 7. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use (FLU)
Altamonte Springs Future Land Use Percentage, %
Commercial/Office 2.08
Conservation 19.87
East Town Center 3.60
Gateway Center 11.93
Industrial 0.18
Institutional 3.67
Low Density Residential 28.96
Medium Density Residential 13.30
Office/Residential 0.41
RBC Core East 11.98
RBC Core West 1.00
Regional Business Center 1.23
West Town Center 1.72
SOURCE: Altamonte Springs GIS Dept.
In Altamonte Springs, 28.96% of the total future land use for Flood Zone AE is identified
as Low Density Residential. Conservation comprises 19.87% of the total make-up.
Medium Density Residential also has a notable percentage of the total acreage in this
zone at 13.30%. The Regional Business Center Core East and Gateway Activity Center
account for 11.98% and 11.93%, respectively. Institutional makes up 3.67% of the total
percentage of acres. Commercial and Office is 2.08% and Regional Business Center Core
West is 1.00% of the total percentage of acreage. East Town Center and Regional
Business Center Activity Center are 3.60% and 1.23%, respectively, of the total
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 8
percentage of acreage. Office and Residential and West Town Center complete the
remaining future land use of this zone with 0.41% and 1.72%, respectively.
Table 8. Flood Zone X by Future Land Use (FLU)
Altamonte Springs Future Land Use Percentage, %
Commercial/Office 4.14
Conservation 0.38
East Town Center 3.54
Gateway Center 4.86
Industrial 2.70
Institutional 3.10
Low Density Residential 37.42
Medium Density Residential 8.91
Office/Residential 2.01
RBC Core East 4.49
RBC Core West 5.38
Regional Business Center 11.07
Right of Way 2.51
West Town Center 9.49
SOURCE: Altamonte
Springs GIS Dept.
In Flood Zone X, 37.42% of the total percentage of acreage is classified as Low Density
Residential. The second most planned use in this flood zone is Medium Density
Residential at 8.91%. Regional Business Activity Center is 11.07%, and West Town
Center and Gateway Activity Center at 9.49% and 4.86%, respectively, of the total
percentage of acreage. Regional Business Center Core East and West make up 4.49%
and 5.38% of the total acreage. Commercial and Office comprises 4.14% and East Town
Center is 3.54%. Industrial, Office and Residential, and Conservation have future land
uses for Flood Zone X with 2.70%, 2.01%, and 0.38%, respectively.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 9
Figure 7. Future Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 10
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to which a municipality values its natural heritage.
Best management practices in Floodplain Management mitigation include preserving
natural areas located in floodplains or directing open space/ recreation uses towards them.
Altamonte Springs has committed itself to the protection of wetlands. The City enforces
Flood Hazard Avoidance Regulations and conserves wetlands where habitats act as
wildlife corridors. Wetlands act as a natural mitigation measure in mitigating flood damage.
Erosion and Sedimentation Control
The City of Altamonte Springs is working on plans to improve the basin for the Little
Wekiva River.
Along the Little Wekiva River, certain areas are prone to soil erosion. The City of Altamonte
Springs in coordination with Seminole County, Orange County, and the SJRWMD
implemented several erosion and sedimentation control project along the Little Wekiva
River identified in the Little Wekiva River Master Plan.
After Hurricane Irma, Altamonte Springs applied for the Emergency Watershed Protection
grant from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service to remove fallen trees and
debris and to install erosion control countermeasures in 8 locations along the Little Wekiva
River between S.R. 436 and S.R. 434.
Figure 8. Wetland Protection
Altamonte Springs protects wetlands because they act as a natural mitigation
measure.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 11
Figure 9. Wetland Protection
Area along the Little Wekiva River Basin where soil erosion is visible.
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management practices are an essential component in mitigating flood
damage. Policies enacted at the municipal level are essential in controlling stormwater
runoff and minimizing damage on property.
The City of Altamonte Springs has established regulations in the City’s many LOS
standards for stormwater quality and quantity.
There are currently 626 stormwater ponds (86 public and 540 private) as well as many
other facilities such as pump stations, roadside drainage, and control structures.
The City protects wetlands so there is also a natural drainage system in the area. The City
also adheres to best management practices that reduce run- off and improve water quality.
Altamonte Springs is currently working to update its stormwater master plan, written is
1995 and last revised in 2002. This is because of the ongoing development and growth in
the City as well as the changes that have occurred in last 20 years.
Figure 10. Stormwater Pond
Stormwater pond located in Altamonte Springs.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 12
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in mitigating flood damage to structures located in flood
prone zones. There are different practices that help protect property and citizens. The City
of Altamonte Springs is currently working to adopt a variation of the State Model Floodplain
ordinance that incorporates recent changes to the Florida Building Code. This will be
presented to the City Commission for adoption in June 2021. Altamonte Springs mandates
that new residential construction, new non-residential construction, and substantial
improvement/damage to existing structures should have their lowest floor, including
basement, elevated to at least one-foot above the base flood elevation (BFE).
Buildings where there is an enclosed area below the lowest floor elevation are required to
be designed for the entry and exit of floodwater. Dry floodproofing techniques such as
these reduce damage from flooding while allowing waters to enter the structure.
Most forms of development in the floodway are prohibited unless certification by a
professional engineer is issued stating that the development will result in no increase in
flood levels.
Standards for subdivisions are required to build utilities that minimize flood damage and
must provide adequate drainage.
Figure 11. Home elevation
Home elevation is a dry floodproofing technique that reduces damage from flooding by allowing
water to enter the structure.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 13
Responsible party Deadline
Altamonte Springs
Goal 1: Enhance Public Awareness and Education on Flood Risk (Continuously)
Objective 1.1 – Develop and distribute annual floodplain outreach materials covering
flood insurance, Elevation Certificates, floodproofing, and emergency preparedness
to all properties throughout the City, including in or near the SFHA.
Objective 1.2 – Maintain and expand the Flood Information page on the City’s
website, providing FIRMettes, links to the FEMA Map Service Center, and public
access to Elevation Certificate records.
Objective 1.3 – Participate in at least one public outreach event each year (e.g., City
sponsored events, Flood Awareness Week, or Florida Preparedness Month).
Goal 2: Maintain the condition of the City’s MS4 to reduce flooding. (Continuously)
Objective 2.1 – Perform ongoing maintenance and repair of City’s MS4.
Objective 2.2 – Repair MS4 facilities as necessary and in a timely manner.
Objective 2.3 – Include stormwater retrofit projects in the City’s Capital Improvement
Plan (CIP) to support long-term community resilience.
Goal 3: Provide annual updates to the City’s Stormwater Master Plan. (Continuously)
Objective 3.1 – Continue to assess inventory both public and private
stormwater infrastructure within the City, to allow for refining of basin delineations.
Objective 3.2 – When funding becomes available, complete elevation certificates for
private and public buildings located within the Special Flood Hazard Areas, reassess
erosion and sedimentation control along Little Wekiva River Qualitatively assess
historical flooding along the Little Wekiva River, lakes and other major water bodies
within the City using best available information to include but not limited to: surveyed
high water marks; lake level records; photographs of flooding; repetitive loss records;
flood elevations predicted by drainage studies; new and more accurate topography;
etc.
Objective 3.3 – Continue to refine the limits of existing flood hazards based on more
accurate topographic information, also convert several Zone “A” SFHAs to Zone
“AE” SFHAs (when appropriate? Or maybe when supported by affected community
officials??)
Goal 4: Increase Community Resilience and Emergency Preparedness (Continuously)
Objective 4.1 – Maintain the Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan to
ensure consistency with state and federal requirements, local resource availability,
and to reflect current flood-prone areas, critical facilities, and concepts of operations.
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Altamonte Springs Floodplain Management Profile 14
Objective 4.2 – Integrate real-time rainfall and stream gauge data from City or
external monitoring stations into emergency management systems to improve flood
warning capabilities.
Objective 4.3 – Conduct, at least one annually, a tabletop or functional exercise of
the City’s emergency management plans with participation from stakeholder
departments.
Objective 4.4 – Pursue grant funding opportunities to support mitigation projects for
public infrastructure.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 1
Introduction
Overview
The City of Casselberry was incorporated
in 1940 in Seminole County. It is in the
southern portion of the county east of the
Cities of Longwood and Altamonte
Springs and to the west of Winter
Springs. Casselberry covers 7.5 square
miles. The city’s population is 32,120.
Involvement with the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Casselberry has been participating in the
Community Rating System (CRS)
program since 2019 and has been
awarded class 8 until March 2026. The
City will be promoted to Class 7 starting
April 1, 2026. It also has a history with the
National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP).
Figure 1. City of Casselberry
Source: Seminole County GIS
Figure 2. National Flood Insurance Program
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 2
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They identify hazards,
profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process measures
the potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage resulting
from natural hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and infrastructure
to natural hazards (FEMA). This section of the community profile assesses the potential
of risk with respect to floodplain management in Casselberry. There are six categories
that address the four components identified in risk assessment as defined through the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): identifying flood zones within the city,
surface water locations, property value within each flood zone, insurance statistics,
vulnerable populations, and critical facilities.
FEMA Flood Zones
Figure 3 shows that the percentage of non- submerged acreage. Non-submerged acreage
refers to land not inundated by surface water. The largest quantity of the acreage is found
in the northern portion of the city by Lake Kathryn and along the floodway situated towards
Gee Creek. Flood Zone A accounts for 3.31% of the floodplain total. Flood Zone AE
comprises 12.13% of the city’s total non- submerged acreage, Zone AH accounts for
0.31% and Zone X covers 82%.
Figure 3. FEMA Flood Zone, Percentage of Acreage for the City of Casselberry, 2013, Non-Submerged Acres
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 3
Surface Water
Table 1. Percentage of Total Surface Water
Figure 4. Lake Howell
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Figure 5. Lake Kathryn
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
There are 39 bodies of surface water
located in Casselberry. Surface water
accounts for 15.9% of the total land
make– up. Table 1 displays the three
largest bodies of water and their
percentage of total surface water in
Casselberry.
All bodies of water are located in or within
close proximity of the Special Flood
Hazard Area (SFHA).
Lake Howell is the largest body of water,
accounting for 49.1 % of the total
percentage of surface water. It is located
in the southeast section of the city and
the boundaries are shared with Seminole
County.
The second largest body of water is Lake
Kathryn comprising 9.1% of the total
percentage of surface water. The lake is
located in the northern portion of the city.
Middle Lake Triplet is located in the
central section of the city and spans
5.4% of the total percentage of surface
water.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 4
Property Value
Flood Zone Total Appraised Value Zone X with 0.2 Pct $43,092,703
Zone A $179,471,725
Zone AE $639,421,125
Zone AH $11,189,976
Zone X without 0.2Pct $3,020,278,441
Grand Total $3,893,453,970
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
Casselberry has over three billion dollars of appraised property value that could be
vulnerable to flood risk damage. The largest property value is found in Flood Zone X where
78% of the city’s total property value is found. Flood Zone AE contains the second largest
appraised value that could be vulnerable to flood risk damage at 16% of the total value of
Casselberry. There is close to $190 million dollars of property value at risk in the remaining
flood zones.
Flood Insurance
Table 3. Policy Statistics for the City of Casselberry, as of 08/07/2025
Policies in-Force Insurance in-Force Whole Written Premiums in-Force
359 $91,031,400 $285,605 Source: FEMA
Casselberry has 359 insurance policies in force according to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The total coverage amount for these insurance policies is
$91,031,400, while the premium paid for them is $285,605
Table 4. Loss Statistics for the City of Casselberry, as of 08/07/2025
Closed Paid Losses Total Payments
43 $433,648.15 Source: FEMA
Total losses that had been paid in full in Casselberry accounted for 43 claims and total
payment made to claimants since 1978 is numbered at $433,648.15.
Table 2. Total Appraised Value by Flood Zone, 2025
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 5
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community who are considered to be
most prone to risk in the time of hazard. In Casselberry, 15.1% of the population is over
the age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss properties are defined as those properties that have been flooded on more
than one occasion. Casselberry does not have repetitive loss properties. In the event that
properties do begin to meet that criteria, then there are buy-out programs that can be
initiated to purchase the property. These measures protect residents from harm and
remove development from the floodplain (Schwab, 2014).
Manufactured Homes
There are over one thousand
manufactured homes located in
Casselberry.
The two largest communities are
Summerloch Green (formerly known as
Lake Kathryn Estates) and Seminole
Speedway. While the vast majority of
these manufactured homes are located
in Flood Zone X, there are a considerable
number of ones that are not.
Casselberry restricts manufactured
home placement to existing
manufactured home parks or sub-
divisions. The city’s land development
code regulates standards for
manufactured homes.
New or substantially improved
manufactured homes in the Special
Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) are required
to elevate the lowest floor on a
permanent foundation to no lower than
one foot above the base flood elevation
and must be properly anchored to resist
flotation, collapse, or any form of
movement. Drainage paths around
structures are also required to be
designed to guide water away from
manufactured homes.
Figure 6. Selected Manufactured Homes in
Floodplain Hazard
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 6
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those facilities that provide a critical function and should
be protected from flood damage. Seminole County has identified four critical facilities
throughout Casselberry and the emergency function they provide in times of crisis. No
facility is located in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of
disasters (FEMA). The policies adopted by Casselberry work to achieve these objectives
and prevent flood damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies, including
Future Land Use, Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building
Practices, all of which are identified through the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land
Development Code. Casselberry is an active member of the Local Mitigation and
Resiliency Strategy and works to make sure all plans are up to date.
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone for the City of Casselberry is
aggregated below. This analysis reflects the hazards that come with developing in flood
prone areas.
Table 5. 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard* by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Casselberry Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % 0.2 Pct. Annual Chance Flood Hazard* 2.51
LDR- Low Density Residential 43.51
MDR- Medium Density Residential 34.78
REC- Recreation/Open Space 8.77
COMM- Commercial 5.42
PUB- Public Service 3.83
IND- Industrial 2.86
HDR- High Density Residential 0.23
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
In Casselberry 43.51% of the total Future Land Use in the 0.2 Percent Annual Chance
Flood Hazard is planned for Low Density Residential. Medium Density Residential
accounts for 34.78% of the total future land use. Recreation and Open Space makes up
8.77%. The remaining uses account for about 13% of the total make- up.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 7
Table 6. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Casselberry Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone A 3.18
MDR- Medium Density Residential 35.09
LINR- Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 21.64
REC- Recreation/Open Space 18.79
LDR- Low Density Residential 9.99
PUB- Public Service 8.72
IND- Industrial 1.02
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
A third of Flood Zone A is planned for Medium Density Residential. The next largest future
planned use is for Low- Density Non- Residential/ Medium Density Residential at 21.64%.
Recreation and Open Space is the third largest future land use in the zone at 18.79%.
Low- Density Residential future is also a notable make-up of the zone with 9.99%. The
Future Land Use indicates that the city has planned residential units for about 67% of
Flood Zone A. The remaining uses account for close to 33% of the total future make- up.
Table 7. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Casselberry Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone AE 22.30
MDR- Medium Density Residential 35.09
LINR- Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 21.64
REC- Recreation/Open Space 18.79
LDR- Low Density Residential 9.99
PUB- Public Service 8.72
MTMU – Major Thoroughfare Mixed Use 4.75
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
The largest Future Land Use category in Flood Zone AE is Medium Density Residential at
35.09%. Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Residential accounts for 21.64% of the
total acreage, followed by Recreation and Open Space at 18.79%. The following most
notable future uses include Low Density Residential at 9.99%, Public Service at 8.72%
and Major Thoroughfare Mixed Use at 4.75%. The remaining future uses account for close
to 1% of the total acreage.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 8
Table 8. Flood Zone AH by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Casselberry Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone AH 0.14
COMM- Commercial 41.59
MTMU – Major Thoroughfare Mixed Use 28.85
LINR- Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 22.03
LDR- Low Density Residential 7.01
MDR- Medium Density Residential 0.52
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
The largest Future Land Use category in the Flood Zone AH is Commercial at 41.59%.
Medium Density Residential accounts for 28.85% of the total acreage, followed by Major
Thoroughfare Mixed Use at 22.03%. The remaining uses account for close to 8% of the
total percentage of acres.
Table 9. Flood Zone X by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Casselberry Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone X 71.87
LDR- Low Density Residential 39.18
MDR- Medium Density Residential 20.55
MTMU – Major Thoroughfare Mixed Use 14.31
COMM- Commercial 7.42
LINR- Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 4.24
PUB- Public Service 4.15
REC- Recreation/Open Space 3.73
IND- Industrial 3.15
HDR- High Density Residential 1.97
HINR- High Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 0.44
Source: City of Casselberry GIS
Low Density Residential comprises 39.18% of Flood Zone X. The next largest future uses
are Medium Density Residential 20.55% and Major Throughfare accounts for 14.31%.
Commercial future use accounts for 7.42%. Low Density Non- Residential/ Medium
Density Residential future use accounts for 4.24% followed by Public Service at 4.15%
and Recreation and Open Space at 3.73%. The remaining future uses account for about
6% of the total percentage of acres.
.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 9
Figure 7. Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to
which a municipality values its natural
heritage. Best practices in Floodplain
Management mitigation include
preserving natural areas located in
floodplains or directing open space/
recreation uses towards them.
Casselberry’s policies require that the
natural functions of wetlands and
floodplains be protected. Land use
restrictions have been implemented on
the specific use of floodplains. These
include limits on natural vegetation
removal, limitations on intensities and
densities of development, and
restrictions on fill placement in
floodplains.
Erosion and Sedimentation
Control
The city’s comprehensive plan sets
objectives to protect minerals, soils and
vegetation. These policies protect bodies
of water and wetlands from siltation.
Best management practices have been
identified to control erosion and
restrictions on clearing of sites prior to
development.
Sediment controls include temporary and
permanent sodding and seeding,
sediment basins and rock dams, silt
fences, and vegetative buffers.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 10
These practices help reduce harmful
pollutants in stormwater runoff from the
construction site.
Figure 8. Wetland Protection
Casselberry has identified Wetland
Protection as a policy in which to help
mitigate against flood damage.
Figure 9. Sediment Basins
Sediment Basins are temporary ponds built
on construction sites to capture eroded or
disturbed soils. Casselberry requires this
sedimentation practice.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 11
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management practices are
an essential component in mitigating
flood damage. Policies enacted at the
municipal level are essential in
controlling stormwater run-off to create
minimal damage impact on property.
In 2017, Casselberry adopted
Stormwater and Lake Management
master plan. This plan guides stormwater
management for the city and identifies
stormwater policies that are integral in
maintaining a quality system.
Casselberry is committed to protecting
water resources and maintaining the
natural drainage systems and
watercourses.
The city also adheres to best
management practices that reduce run-
off and improve water quality.
Casselberry’s objectives are met by
implementing policies such as dry
retention/ detention facilities, wet
detention/ retention facilities and
promoting techniques such as low-
impact development, which adheres to
pre- development hydrologic conditions.
Figure 10. Wet Retention/Detention Facility
Dry Retention/ Detention facilities are used
to drain between rainfall events.
Figure 11. Low Impact Development
Source: Lowimpactdevelopment.org.
Low Impact Development is a form of
development that adheres to pre-
development conditions. Examples include
green roofs and permeable surfaces.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 12
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in
mitigating flood damage to structures
located in flood prone zones. There are
different practices that help protect
property and citizens.
Casselberry mandates that new
residential and non-residential
construction or substantial improvements
to existing ones should have their lowest
floor including basement elevated to a
foot above the base flood elevation
(BFE).
Buildings where there is an enclosed
area below the lowest floor elevation are
required to be designed for the entry and
exit of floodwater. Dry floodproofing
techniques such as these reduce
damage from flooding while allowing
water to enter the structure.
Most forms of development in the
floodway are prohibited unless
certification by a professional engineer is
issued stating that the development will
result in no increase in flood levels.
Standards for subdivisions are required
to build utilities that minimize flood
damage and must provide adequate
drainage.
Figure 12. Home Elevation
Source: FEMA
Home elevation is a dry floodproofing
technique that reduces damage from
flooding by allowing water to enter the
structure.
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 13
City of Casselberry Floodplain Management Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
Goal 1: Improve the City’s outreach programs.
Objective 1.1 Implement outreach initiatives and educational events to inform insurance
agents and property owners on the availability of flood-related data from the City.
• Action Item 1.1 Pursuant to Objective 1.1, leverage social media to promote flood
awareness, especially during hurricane season; publish an annual newsletter to provide
flood-related resources to the residents and educate residents on storm preparedness.
• Action Item 1.2 Pursuant to Objective 1.1, host at least one educational event within the
City to engage and inform stakeholders about flood risks and available resources.
Responsible Party: City of Casselberry Public Works Department and Community
Information Manager
Timeline: Continuously
Goal 2: Improve Accessibility, Quality, and Management of Flood Data
Objective 2.1 Provide surveyors with access to County-maintained benchmark data.
Objective 2.2 Maintain and regularly update the building elevation database using
as-built plans or survey data.
Objective 2.3 Incorporate approved Letters of Map Change (LOMCs) into the latest
FEMA floodplain maps and make updated maps available to the public upon request.
Goal 3: Implement and Enhance Flood Protection to Reduce Risk
Objective 3.1 Ensure post-development or redevelopment stormwater runoff (peak flow
and volume) does not exceed pre-development conditions based on applicable design
storm criteria per City Code.
Objective 3.2 Review and update the City's floodplain regulations as needed.
• Action Item 3.1 Pursuant to Objective 3.1, require a certified floodplain manager (CFM)
to perform routine stormwater modeling reviews during the engineering permitting
process. This evaluation will follow the City’s design storm criteria outlined in the City’s
Casselberry Floodplain Management Profile 14
Stormwater Management Codes.
Responsible Party: City of Casselberry Public Works Department
Timeline: Continuously
Goal 4: Maintain and Enhance the City’s Drainage Infrastructure
Objective 4.1 Continue routine maintenance of key drainage infrastructure components,
including major pipes, ditches, and control structures, and improve maintenance where
feasible.
Objective 4.2 Identify, evaluate, and implement capital improvement projects (CIPs) that
support flood risk mitigation, where feasible and sustainable.
• Action Item 4.1 Pursuant to Objective 4.1, routinely update the City’s Geographic
Information System (GIS) with current as-built drainage data.
Responsible Party: City of Casselberry Public Works Department and IT Division
Timeline: Continuously
• Action Item 4.2 Pursuant to Objective 4.2, complete a minimum of 2,000 LF of cured-in-
place pipe lining.
Responsible Party: City of Casselberry Public Works Department
Timeline: December 2026
• Action Item 4.3 Pursuant to Objective 4.2, update the City’s Stormwater Master Plan
Responsible Party: City of Casselberry Public Works Department
Timeline: December 2027
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 1
Introduction
Overview
The City of Lake Mary was incorporated
in 1973 in Seminole County. It is located
in the northern section of the county,
with the city of Sanford located to the
north and east, the city of Longwood to
the south, and unincorporated areas to
its west. Lake Mary has a land area of
9.16 square miles. As of the 2020
census, the city’s population is 16,798
with 6,940 households within the City
Involvement with the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Lake Mary became eligible for the
National Flood Insurance Program’s
(NFIP) Community Rating System
(CRS) on October 1, 2009. The
municipality currently ranks as a class
five, receiving 2,500-2,999 Credit Points
(cT) during its classification.
The discount percentage for properties
found in the Special Flood Hazard
(SFHA) is twenty-five percent while the
percent discount for non-Special Flood
Hazard Area (SFHA) properties is ten
percent. The city’s participation in the
program is listed as current.
Figure 1. City of Lake Mary
Source: Seminole County GIS
Figure 2. National Flood Insurance Program
Source: Seminole County GIS
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 2
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They are; identifying
hazards, profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process
measures the potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property
damage resulting from natural hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people,
buildings, and infrastructure to natural hazards (FEMA). This section of the community
profile assesses the potential of risk with respect to floodplain management in Lake
Mary. There are six categories that address the four components identified in risk
assessment as defined through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):
identifying flood zones within the city, surface water locations, property value within each
flood zone, insurance statistics, vulnerable populations, and critical facilities. .
Figure 3 shows the percentage of each of the FEMA flood zones within City of Lake
Mary. Of the total land within jurisdictional boundaries, Zone A accounts for 1.52% (or
96.26 acres), Zone AE accounts for 19.90% (or 1,263.71 acres), Zone AH accounts for
1.08% (or 68.57 acres), while Zone X accounts for 77.49% (or 4,916.78 acres) of the
land found in City of Lake Mary.
1 .52%
19.90%
1 .08%
77.49%
Zone A
Zone AE
Zone AH
Zone X
Figure 3. FEMA Flood Zone, Percentage of Acreage for the City of Lake Mary 2025
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 3
Surface Waters
Table 1. Percentage of Total Surface Water
There are 28 bodies of surface water
located in Lake Mary. Surface water
accounts for 9.48 % of the total land
make–up. Table 1 displays the three
largest bodies of water and their
percentage of total surface water in the
city boundaries.
All bodies of water are in or within close
proximity of the Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA).
Most of these lakes are closed basin
lakes with no outlets. Rainfall causes
closed basin lakes to rise faster than
drain. The result is a variation in water
elevation that can lead to flooding.
The largest body of surface water is
West Crystal Lake accounting for
35.15% of the total surface water. The
lake is in the Special Flood Hazard Area
(SFHA).
The second largest body of surface
water is Big Lake Mary, comprising
16.23% of the total surface water.
East Crystal Lake is 11.59% of the total
surface water in Lake Mary.
Figure 4. West Crystal Lake
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Figure 5. East Crystal Lake, Aerial View
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Surface Water Name Percentage of Acres, %
Total Surface Water as a percentage of Total Land 9.48%
West Crystal Lake 35.15%
Big Lake Mary 16.23%
East Crystal Lake 11.59%
Source: City of Lake Mary PW Dept.
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 4
Total Losses Closed Losses Open Losses CWOP Losses Total Payments
13 2 0 11 $3,016
Source: FEMA
Property Value
Lake Mary has $3,437,631,347 dollars in property value that could be exposed to flood
damage. 97% of the appraised value is found in Flood Zone X. Flood Zone AE has
2.9%, and Flood Zones A, AH, and X (0.2 percent annual chance flood hazard) each
have under one percent of the total appraised value found in Lake Mary.
Insurance Statistics
Lake Mary has 225 policies in force according to the Federal Emergency Management
Agency. The total amount coverage for these insurance policies $75,498,000, while the
premium paid for them was $187,354. .
Table 4. Loss Statistics for the City of Lake Mary
Total property losses in Lake Mary are numbered at 13 properties since 1978. Losses
that had been paid in full were accounted for 2 claims and losses that had been closed
without payment (CWOP) was numbered at 11. There were no losses that had not been
paid in full (Open Losses). Total payments made to claimants since 1978 is $3,015.68.
Table 2. Total Appraised Value by Flood Zone
Table 3. Policy Statistics for the City of Lake Mary, as of 2025
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 5
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community who are most prone to risk
in the time of hazard. 18.9% of the population is over the age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss properties are defined as those properties that have been flooded on
more than one occasion. Lake Mary does not have repetitive loss properties.
If properties do begin to meet that criteria then there are buy-out programs that can be
initiated to purchase the property. These measures protect residents from harm and
remove development from the floodplain (Schwab, 2014).
Manufactured Homes
Lake Mary is limited in the number of manufactured homes located throughout its
boundaries.
For those manufactured homes located in the Special Flood Hazard (SFHA) mitigation
policies that reduce flood damage include elevating the foundation to 1.5 feet above the
base flood elevation (BFE).
Manufactured homes must also be anchored to a foundation system to prevent floatation
or varying forms of movements.
Figure 6. Manufactured Home Foundations
.
Chassis are the steel frames of manufactured homes. Block piers and anchors are building
methods utilized to mitigate flood damage.
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 6
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those facilities that provide a critical function and should
be protected from flood damage. Seminole County has identified 16 critical facilities
throughout Lake Mary and the emergency function they provide in times of crisis. No
facility is located in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 7
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of
disasters (FEMA). The policies adopted by Lake Mary work to achieve these objectives
and prevent flood damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies including
Future Land Use, Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building
Practices all identified through the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development
Code. Lake Mary is an active member of the Local Mitigation Strategy and works to
make sure all plans are up to date. ..
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone for the City of Lake Mary is
aggregated below by percentage of total acreage in the flood zone. This analysis reflects
the potential hazards that come with planning for growth in flood prone areas.
Table 4. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use.
Zone A accounts for 1.52% (or 96.26 acres) of all land area within the City. Low Density
Residential is the largest future planned use for Flood Zone A with 22.89% of the total
percentage of acreage. The second largest planned use is Commercial at 14.58%.
Recreation comprises 13.19% and Industrial consists of 11.03% of the total percentage
acreage. Public and Semi Public is 9.26% and High Intensity Planned Development is
6.76%. Restricted Commercial and High Tech & Medical are 6.51% and 6.239%
respectively. The remaining future uses account for 6.14% of Flood Zone A.
Future Land Use (Flood Zone A)Percentage of Acres, %
LDR - Low Density Residential 22.89
COM - Commercial 14.58
REC - Recreation 13.19
IND - Industrial 11.03
PUB - Public / Semi-Public 9.26
HIPTI - High Intensity Planned Development Target Industry 6.76
RCOM - Restricted Commercial 6.51
HTM - High-Tech Medical 6.29
HDR - High Density Residential 4.33
DDD - Downtown Development District 3.37
MDR - Medium Density Residential 1.58
RR - Rural Residential 0.88
OFF - Office 0.26
LMDR - Low-Medium Density Residential 0.05
Source: City of Lake Mary PW Dept.
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 8
Table 5. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use.
Zone AE accounts for 19.90% (or 1,263.71 acres) of all land area within the City. Low
Density Residential accounts for 49.35% of the total percentage of acreage in Flood
Zone AE. Recreation is planned for 14.28% of the flood zone. Rural Residential
comprises 13.64% of future land use. Low-Medium Density Residential accounts for
8.20% of the planned future use in Lake Mary. Medium Residential use makes up
5.17%; Commercial is 2.78%. The remaining categories account for the last 1.53% of
the future land use in Lake Mary. .
Table 6. Flood Zone AH by Future Land Use.
Zone AH accounts for 1.08% (or 68.57 acres) of all land area within the City and is
dominated by Low Density Residential future use at 75.10% of the total percentage of
acreage. The next largest category is Industrial at 18.37%. Mixed-Use Mid-Town
comprises 3.04% of the planned future use. Public/ Semi-Public accounts for 2.30% of
future land use. Commercial, Recreation, and Restricted Commercial complete the
future make-up with 0.99%, 0.14%, and 0.06%, respectively.
Future Land Use (Flood Zone AE)Percentage of Acres, %
LDR - Low Density Residential 49.35
REC - Recreation 14.28
RR - Rural Residential 13.64
LMDR - Low-Medium Density Residential 8.20
PUB - Public / Semi-Public 5.17
MDR - Medium Density Residential 5.03
COM - Commercial 2.78
HTM - High-Tech Medical 0.42
DDD - Downtown Development District 0.38
OFF - Office 0.37
IND - Industrial 0.28
HDR - High Density Residential 0.06
COUNTY LDR - Seminole County Low Density Residential 0.02
Source: City of Lake Mary PW Dept.
Future Land Use (Flood Zone AH)Percentage of Acres, %
LDR - Low Density Residential 75.10
IND - Industrial 18.37
MUMT - Mixed-Use Midtown 3.04
PUB - Public / Semi-Public 2.30
COM - Commercial 0.99
REC - Recreation 0.14
RCOM - Restricted Commercial 0.06
Source: City of Lake Mary PW Dept.
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 9
Figure 7. Future Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 10
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to
which a municipality values its natural
heritage. Best practices in Floodplain
Management mitigation include
preserving natural areas located in
floodplains or directing open space/
recreation uses towards them.
Lake Mary has multiple policies to
protect the shorelines, flood hazard
areas, watercourses, and natural
wetlands to help create natural flood
mitigation.
By doing this, Lake Mary believes they
can minimize flood damage, keep a
stable tax base, and minimize the
amount of future projects needed to
protect against floods. The city abides
by the requirements set in the Tile 44
Code.
Erosion and Sedimentation
The city’s comprehensive plan sets
objectives to protect minerals, soils, and
vegetation. These policies protect
bodies of water and wetlands from
siltation.
The City of Lake Mary tries to manage
dredging, mining, paving, grading, filling,
and drilling to protect against erosion in
the city.
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management practices are
an essential component in mitigating
flood damage. Policies enacted at the
municipal level are essential in
controlling stormwater run- off to create
minimal damage impact on property.
Lake Mary has plenty of retention ponds
and drainage facilities to manage run-
off.
Figure 8. Wetlands in Lake Mary
Figure 9. Shore erosion in Lake Mary
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 11
Recently, Lake Mary raised stormwater
fees to make sure the fund doesn’t dry
up and money is set aside to fix drains
and other facilities.
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in
mitigating flood damage to structures
located in flood prone zones. There are
different practices that help protect
property and citizens
Lake Mary mandates that new
residential and non-residential
construction or substantial
improvements to existing ones should
have their lowest finished floor including
basement elevated to at a foot and a
half above the base flood elevation
(BFE).
In areas delineated on the FIRM and
base flood elevation (BFE), Flood Plain
Administrators must follow certain steps.
They must try to find any flood data from
state and federal governments. When
information can’t be found, the structure
must be built three and a half feet above
the tallest adjacent ground.
When a developer wants to build a
regulatory floodway, an analysis must
take place to prove the base flood
elevation (BFE) won’t rise.
Structures must be built to minimize or
eliminate flood damage. There must be
enough drainage to reduce flooding.
Figure 10. House elevation
An example of a house built on stilts to keep
it from flooding, a common technique of dry
floodproofing.
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile
Lake Mary Floodplain Management Profile 12
Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Develop and enforce policies and regulations to support effective floodplain
management.
Objective 1.1- Develop and enforce land use policies, plans and regulations to
discourage or prohibit inappropriate location of structures or infrastructure
components in areas of high risk to flooding.
Objective 1.2- Continue to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program
and the associated Community Rating System.
Objective 1.3- Continue to develop and enforce building and land development
codes that are effective in addressing the flooding hazards threatening the
community.
Objective 1.4- Establish and enforce regulations to ensure that public and private
property maintenance is consistent with minimizing vulnerabilities to flooding.
Goal 2: Work in conjunction with the County and other local governments to create and
support floodplain management throughout the county.
Objective 2.1- Continue to collaborate in the countywide Floodplain Management
Plan and associated Floodplain Management Team working group.
Objective 2.2- Coordinate with the County and other local government agencies
to further develop and administer outreach programs to gain participation in
mitigation programs by business, industry, institutions and community groups.
Objective 2.3- Comply with interagency agreements and collaborate with the
County and other local governments to improve multi-jurisdiction / multi-agency
coordination
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 1
Introduction
Overview
The City of Longwood was incorporated
in 1917 in Seminole County. It is located
in the southwest portion of the county
east of the City of Winter Springs and
north of the City of Casselberry.
Incorporated Longwood covers 5.6
square miles. The city’s population is
16,794.
Involvement with the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Longwood currently has an application in
review to join Community Rating System
(CRS). Even though the city has not been
a member of CRS, the city implements
many of the CRS and National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP) procedures
and programs.
Figure 1. City of Longwood
Source: Longwood GIS
Figure 2. National Flood Insurance Program
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 2
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They are identifying
hazards, profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process
measures the potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage
resulting from natural hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and
infrastructure to natural hazards (FEMA). This section of the community profile assesses
the potential of risk with respect to floodplain management in Longwood. There are six
categories that address the four components identified in risk assessment as defined
through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): identifying flood zones
within the city, surface water locations, property value within each flood zone, insurance
statistics, vulnerable populations, and critical facilities.
FEMA Flood Zones
Figure 3 shows that the percentage of acreage located in the various flood zones found
within the Incorporated City of Longwood limits. Zone A accounts for 1.38% of the
floodplain total. Flood Zone AE comprises 7.95%, Zone AH accounts for 0.04% and Zone
X covers 89.81%.
Figure 3. FEMA Flood Zone, Percentage of Acreage for the City of Longwood, 2013, Non-Submerged Acres
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 3
Surface Water
Figure 4 – Longwood Surface Waters
There are 389 bodies of surface water
located in Longwood. These consist of
natural lakes and man-made water
bodies for stormwater treatment. Surface
water accounts for 14.8% of the total land
make– up.
Source: City of Longwood GIS
Flood Insurance
Table 1. Policy Statistics for the City of Longwood, as of 7/28/2025
Policies in-Force Insurance in-Force Whole Written Premiums in-Force
203 $65,707,000 $143,995 Source: FEMA
Longwood has 203 insurance policies in force according to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The total coverage amount for these insurance policies is
$65,707,000 while the premium paid for them is $143,995
Table 2. Most Recent Loss Statistics for the City of Longwood
Closed Paid Losses Total Payments
30 $126,385.16 Source: FEMA
Total losses that had been paid in full in Longwood accounted for 30 claims and total
payments made to claimants since 1978 is numbered at $126,385.1
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 4
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community who are considered to be
most prone to risk in the time of hazard. In Longwood, 20.1% of the population is over the
age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss properties are defined as those properties that have been flooded on more
than one occasion. Longwood does not have repetitive loss properties. In the event that
properties do begin to meet that criterion then there are assistance programs that can be
initiated to assist the property owner. These measures protect residents from harm and
remove development from the floodplain (Schwab, 2014).
Manufactured Homes
Manufactured homes only account for
0.2% of the total number of residential
units in the city of Longwood. This is
approximately 10 manufactured homes.
Longwood restricts manufactured home
placement to existing manufactured
parks or sub-divisions. The city’s land
development code regulates standards
for manufactured homes.
New or substantially improved
manufactured homes in the Special
Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) are required
to elevate the lowest floor on a
permanent foundation to no lower than
one foot above the base flood elevation
and must be properly anchored to resist
flotation, collapse or any form of
movement. Drainage paths around
structures are also required to be
designed to guide water away from
manufactured homes.
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 5
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those facilities that provide a critical function and should
be protected from flood damage. The City of Longwood has four-teen critical facilities
throughout Longwood. The use of the critical facilities varies from providing first response
and medical services, shelters and assisted living to keeping the city’s utility infrastructure
functioning. No facility is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 6
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of
disasters (FEMA). The policies adopted by Longwood work to achieve these objectives
and prevent flood damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies including
Future Land Use, Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building Practices
all identified through the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code.
Longwood is an active member of the Local Mitigation Strategy and works to make sure
all plans are up to date. .
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone for the City of Longwood is
aggregated below. This analysis reflects the hazards that come with developing in flood
prone areas.
Table 3. 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard* by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Longwood Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % 0.2 Pct. Annual Chance Flood Hazard* 0.66
LDR- Low Density Residential 43.2
COMM- Commercial 27.3
IND- Industrial 8.8
INF – Infill and Mixed use 11.8
CON - Conservation 7.4
MDR- Medium Density Residential 1.5
*of the 100 Year Flood Source: City of Longwood GIS
Table 4. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Longwood Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone A 0.06
IND- Industrial 44.7
MDR- Medium Density Residential 37.9
PUB – Public/Institutional 13.9
LDR- Low Density Residential 1.9
COM Commercial 1.7
Source: City of Longwood GIS
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 7
Table 5. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Longwood Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone AE 7.6
LDR- Low Density Residential 52.91
REC- Recreation/Open Space 18.01
MDR- Medium Density Residential 15.75
COMM- Commercial 4.01
PUB- Public Service 3.26
LINR- Low Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 3.20
HDR- High Density Residential 2.13
IND- Industrial 0.47
HINR- High Density Non-Res/Medium Density Res. 0.27
Source: City of Longwood GIS
Table 6. Flood Zone AH by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Longwood Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone AH 0.01
LDR- Low Density Residential 100.00
Source: City of Longwood GIS
Table 7. Flood Zone X by Future Land Use (FLU), 2025
Longwood Future Land Use Percentage of Acres, % Flood Zone X 91.12
LDR- Low Density Residential 40.8
COMM- Commercial 21.2
IND- Industrial 13.7
MDR- Medium Density Res. 10.4
PUB- Public/Institutional 6.8
INF- Infill and Mixed use 3.4
CON- Conservation 1.4
HIS- Historic 1.3
STA- Station Core 1.1
Source: City of Longwood GIS
.
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 8
Figure 5. Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 9
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to
which a municipality values its natural
heritage. Best practices in Floodplain
Management mitigation include
preserving natural areas located in
floodplains or directing open space/
recreation uses towards them.
Longwood’s policies require that natural
functions of wetlands and floodplains be
protected. Land use restrictions have
been implemented on the specific use of
floodplains. These include, limits on
natural vegetation removal, limitations on
intensities and densities of development,
and restrictions on fill placement in
floodplains.
Erosion and Sedimentation
Control
The city’s comprehensive plan sets
objectives to protect minerals, soils and
vegetation. These policies protect bodies
of water and wetlands from siltation.
Best management practices have been
identified to control erosion and
restrictions on clearing of sites prior to
development.
Sediment controls include temporary and
permanent sodding and seeding,
sediment basins and rock dams, silt
fences, and vegetative buffers.
These practices help reduce harmful
pollutants in stormwater runoff from the
construction site.
Figure 6. Island Lake Wetland Area
Longwood has identified Wetland Protection
as a policy in which to help mitigate against
flood damage.
Figure 7. Sediment Basins
Turbidity barriers are placed in ponds and
lakes to prevent sediment from impacting
the pond when construction is adjacent to a
water body. Longwood requires this
sedimentation practice.
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 10
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management practices are
an essential component in mitigating
flood damage. Policies enacted at the
municipal level are essential in
controlling stormwater run- off to create
minimal damage impact on property.
In 2019, Longwood adopted a new
floodplain and flood zone development
ordinance. This ordinance guides
stormwater management in critical flood
zones for the city and identifies
stormwater policies that are integral in
maintaining a quality system.
Longwood is committed to protecting
water resources and maintaining the
natural drainage systems and
watercourses.
The city also adheres to best
management practices that reduce run-
off and improve water quality.
Longwood’s objectives are met by
implementing policies such as dry
retention/ detention facilities, wet
detention/ retention facilities, limiting
impervious area and promoting
techniques such as low- impact
development, which adheres to pre-
development hydrologic conditions.
Figure 8. Dry Pond
Dry Detention/ Detention facilities are used
to drain between rainfall events.
Figure 9. Low Impact Development – Rain
Garden
Source: Lowimpactdevelopment.org.
Low Impact Development is a form of
development that adheres to pre-
development conditions. An example is the
use of rain gardens for water treatment.
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 11
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in
mitigating flood damage to structures
located in flood prone zones. There are
different practices that help protect
property and citizens.
Longwood mandates that new residential
and non- residential construction or
substantial improvements to existing
ones should have their lowest floor
including basement elevated to at least
1- foot above the base flood elevation
(BFE).
Buildings where there is an enclosed
area below the lowest floor elevation are
required to be designed for the entry and
exit of floodwater. Dry floodproofing
techniques such as these reduce
damage from flooding while allowing
waters to enter the structure.
Most forms of development in the
floodway are discouraged. Any impact to
a flood zone requires proper mitigation
through compensating flood storage. By
providing compensating flood storage to
replace flood storage impacted by the
development; there will not be an
increase in flood levels.
Figure 10. Home Elevation
Source: FEMA
Home elevation is a dry floodproofing
technique that reduces damage from
flooding by allowing water to enter the
structure.
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 12
City of Longwood Floodplain Management Goals, Objectives, & Action Items
Goal 1: Improve City’s GIS web viewer.
Objective 1.1 Improve City’s online maps to provide property owners easy access to
flood related data.
Responsible Party: City of Longwood Public Works and IT Departments
Timeline: Continuously
Goal 2: Increase residents’ knowledge of assistance programs related to recovery from flooding
Objective 2.1 Include information flyers in mailings.
Objective 2.2 Provide information at local city events.
Objective 2.3 Implement annual outreach public meetings and educational events to
educate insurance agents and property owners the availability of flood related data from
the City.
Goal 3: Implement stricter water treatment requirements on new development located in flood
prone basins.
Objective 3.1 Require new developments in flood prone basins to hold the 100 Year
storm on property.
Responsible Party: City of Longwood Public Works
Timeline: Continuously
Goal 4: Maintain and improve the City’s drainage infrastructure to help mitigate flood risk, where
feasible, sustainable, and appropriate in context.
Objective 4.1 Continue and, where feasible, improve routine maintenance of the City’s
key drainage infrastructure components, such as major pipes, ditches, and key control
structures.
Objective 4.2 Identify, evaluation, and implement (where feasible) potential capital
improvement project.
Responsible Party: City of Longwood Public Works Department
Incorporated Longwood Floodplain Management Profile 13
Timeline: Continuously
Goal 5: Update the City’s Subdivision and Stormwater Manual.
Objective 5.1 Update the manual to include the most current best management
practices.
Objective 5.2 Update the manual to include sections on low impact development and
guidance on alternative water treatment methods, such as rain gardens.
Responsible Party: City of Longwood Public Works Department
Timeline: Continuously
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile Introduction
Overview
The City of Oviedo was incorporated in
1925 in Seminole County, FL. It is
located in the southern portion of the
county, bordered by Orange County to
the south, the City of Winter Springs to
the west and rural unincorporated
Seminole County to the north and east.
The city currently covers 16 square
miles. The current population is 41,934
residents.
Involvement with the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Oviedo became eligible for the National
Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP)
Community Rating System (CRS) on
October 1, 2008.
The city is currently ranked as a class five
(5) community. Oviedo received 2522
credit points during its most recent
classification audit. This allows for a 25%
discount on insurance premiums through
the NFIP for those homes within a
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Figure 1. City of Oviedo
.
Source: Seminole County GIS Dept
Figure 2. Flooding Twin Rivers Golf
Course
Source: City of Oviedo
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They are identifying
hazards, profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process
measures the potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage
resulting from natural hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and
infrastructure to natural hazards. This section of the community profile assesses the
potential of risk with respect to floodplain management in Oviedo. There are six categories
that address the four components identified in risk assessment as defined through the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): identifying flood zones within the city,
surface water locations, property value within each flood zone, insurance statistics,
vulnerable populations, and critical facilities.
FEMA Flood Zones
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 2
Source: City of Oviedo P/W Administration
Figure 3 shows the percentage of acreage found in the 100 Year Floodplain.
Approximately 88% of Flood Zone AE is found in the corridors of the Little
Econlockhatchee and Econlockhatchee Rivers.
Surface Water
Table 1. Percentage of Total Surface
Water
Figure 4. Econlockhatchee River
Figure 3. Percentage of Acreage in the City of Oviedo, 2024, FEMA Flood
Zone,
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 3
Figure 5. Horseshoe North
Source City of Oviedo Public Works Source City of Oviedo Public Works
There are fourteen (14) natural bodies of surface water that are located throughout
Oviedo, and they cover approximately 5% of the total land area; all water bodies are
located within SFHAs. Table 1 displays the three largest bodies of water and their
percentage of total surface water in Oviedo. Oviedo also has many natural wetland areas
that are also treated as surface waters. Many of the wetland areas are within closed
basins, this makes these areas prone to flood risks during major storm events.
The largest surface water in Oviedo is the Econlockhatchee River, which is located in the
eastern portion of the city. It consists of 44.8% of the total surface water.
Horseshoe North Lake accounts for 13.3% of the total surface water and is in the
southeast area of Oviedo, partially within the Live Oak Subdivision. The third largest body
of surface water is the Little Econlockhatchee River, which covers 7.4%. This river is also
found in the eastern area of the city. Figures 4,5,6 highlight these surface waters.
Figure 6. Little Econlockhatchee River
Source City of Oviedo Public Works
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Flood Insurance
As of 2025, Oviedo has over 4 billion dollars in appraised property value that could be
vulnerable to flood risk damage. Over 80% of the appraised property is found in Flood
Zone X. It is important to note that as of 08/22/2024 there are 728 NFIP flood insurance
policies covering properties worth $234,820,000 in the SFHA. In 2024 the city
executed a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) city wide to FEMA, this changed those
areas within a SFHA without a Base Flood Elevation (BFE) known as Zone A to
Zone AE (with a BFE). This provides more accuracy for development or insurance
assessment purposes. The city-wide LOMR was approved by FEMA and went into
effect August 15, 2024
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community which are considered to
be most prone to risk in the time of upcoming hazards, approximately 14.7% of the
city’s population is over the age of 65. There are three (3) residential
facilities with elder/special care provisions. All three (3) of these residential
facilities are outside of a SFHA.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss properties are defined by the NFIP as those properties that have
been flooded on more than one occasion and have had multiple insurance claims
over a ten-year period. Oviedo currently does not have any repetitive loss properties.
If buildings begin to meet the definition of a repetitive loss and they finished floor
elevation is not to the most current city code, the address is flagged by permit
issuance to track improvement values. Tracking the buildings will ensure significant
improvements do not rise above 50% of fair market value during a ten year period
starting from the date of the first flood loss. The most recent city code requires
buildings to have the finished floor elevation built two (2) feet above the published
Base Flood Elevation. There are mitigation grants available through FEMA or potential
buy out programs that can be initiated to purchase the property if necessary. These
measures protect residents from harm and remove development from the floodplain
(Schwab, 2014). The city currently does not have any homes that fall in the repetitive
loss category.
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 5
Manufactured Homes
Oviedo does not currently have land zoned for mobile home parks. There is one
manufactured home built on slab within the city limits.
Critical Facilities
There are thirty-six (36) critical facilities found in Oviedo. None of these facilities are
located within a SFHA.
Mitigation Measures
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Current Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone (non- submerged acres)
for the City of Oviedo is shown below. This reflects the hazards that come with developing
in flood prone areas. The map shows the Future Land Use codes and flood zones,
including where these areas overlap. The Future Land Use code used on this map include
CM (Commercial), HDR (High Density Residential), LDR (Low Density Residential), and
PUD (Planned Unit Development). The flood zones include A and AE, which are all part
of the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), as well as X (minimal area of flooding), and all
other values. .
Figure 6. Future Land Use and SFHA.
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 6
Environmental Efforts
Oviedo prohibits construction within the
floodway that would diminish the functional
floodway capacity. Wide setbacks from
waterbodies are enforced as part of the Land
Development Code. An example is the
Econlockhatchee (Econ) corridor project
shown in Figure 7.
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map found
in Section 2.2 that 37% of Future Use is
designated for Conservation in Flood Zone A
and over 62% in Flood Zone AE.
Municipal policies are intended to minimize
potential flood damage by directing
recreation, conservation, and common open
space to those areas within the Flood Zone,
this creates clusters of residential
development outside of the SFHA.
Erosion and Sediment Control
Oviedo ‘s mitigation policies are intended to minimize erosion and control sedimentation.
Construction projects associated with the development order application are required to
submit an erosion and sediment control plan to ensure that certain measures are properly
addressed. These measures are also required to follow through with state environmental
standards. A dedicated city inspector ensures that sediment erosion controls remain in
place for the duration of the project and logs inspections through GIS Survey.
Mitigation policies intended to support minimizing erosion and controlling sedimentation
include leaving steep slopes and wetlands undisturbed, leaving the natural drainage
pattern of the land to the most practicable standard and promoting natural vegetative
cover.
The benefits of these policies include but are not limited to; reducing the velocity of run-
off and increasing infiltration into the soil.1 Other policies identified to control sedimentation
from construction sites are practicing run-off control measures and sediment trapping
measures.
Stormwater Management
Stormwater runoff is an essential component in helping to mitigate flood damage. Oviedo
requires development mimic the flow patterns of the natural drainage pattern. This policy 1 Section 10.2 Drainage and Stormwater Management and Erosion Control, Article X. Floodways, Floodplains, Drainage, and Erosion of Oviedo’s Land Development Code
Figure 7. Econ Corridor Project
The Econ Corridor Project is a conservation
effort to protect environmentally sensitive
lands. These forms of mitigation policies
prevent development in the flood prone
area.
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 7
promotes conservation efforts to protect wetlands throughout the city. The functions of
these natural resources are to retain and infiltrate water.
Performance and design standards for stormwater management are found in Oviedo’s
Engineering Standards Manual. These standards are directed towards implementing
effective policies that help circumvent extensive damage in the event of severe stormwater
flooding. Performance standards include implementing best management practices
requiring the retention/detention of stormwater, managing discharge levels and protecting
water quality. Quality of natural water bodies are preserved by multiple Best Management
Practices (BMPs) within the city’s stormwater management program. BMPs include but
are not limited too; a dedicated city owned Streetsweeper and Jet Vac, nutrient filters,
retention and detention areas, an Adopt A Road Program, and annual water quality testing
of natural surface waters
Figure 8. Oviedo Drainage and Stormwater
Management & Erosion Control highlights retention, wetland and conservation areas.
Building Practices
Oviedo building practices mandate that development orders or permits cannot be issued
within floodplains until development adheres to certain goals. These goals include.
1.Developments and public facilities are located and constructed to minimize or
eliminate flood damage.
2.Adequate drainage is provided.
3.No new construction is permitted in the floodway.
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 8
4.Construction in the floodplain also mandates that no new construction or
improvements take place unless the lowest floor is elevated to no lower than two
feet above the base flood elevation (BFE).
For non-residential buildings, flood-proofing techniques can be used in lieu of elevating
the structure above the BFE. These techniques are required to be certified by a
professional engineer. Floodproofing techniques identified by the city are intended to
withstand flood depths, pressure, impact, and prevent the passage of water in buildings
below the BFE. Figure 9 displays several FEMA floodproofing techniques including,
elevating the primary residence above the BFE and elevating HVAC equipment to an
upper floor.
In the Land Development Code, final plat approvals are not authorized unless the
boundaries of the floodplain are identified on the plat. The city requires the following
language to be printed on all plats:
“Use of land within a Floodplain or Floodway is substantially restricted by the City
of Oviedo”
All new residential and commercial structures located within a Special Flood Hazard Area
are required to submit an original Elevation Certificate to the Engineering Department prior
to a Certificate of Occupancy being issued. Elevation Certificates are available to
residents via an interactive GIS Map
Figure 9. FEMA Floodproofing Techniques.
Source: FEMA
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile
Oviedo Floodplain Management Profile 9
Responsible party Deadline
City of Oviedo Annual
Goal 1: - To maintain the functionality of the Master Conveyance System in Oviedo
Objective 1.1- Perform on-going maintenance of tributaries and canals.
Objective 1.2 – Inspect and ensure all thirty-one (31) Major Outfalls are clear and
functioning each year.
Objective 1.3- Perform on-going maintenance of the city-wide storm water master system.
City of Oviedo Annual
Goal 2: - To maintain the quality of the street drainage facilities in Oviedo
Objective 2.1- Perform on-going maintenance of street sweeping and jet vacuum cleaning
of storm drains.
Objective 2.2- Perform on-going inspections and maintenance of street culverts and storm
sewers and cleaning and marking of storm sewer inlets.
City of Oviedo Annual
Goal 3: - To improve the quality of stormwater in Oviedo
Objective 3.1- Perform measures to further reduce pollutants from the city’s MS4 systems
to surface water within the incorporated limits.
Objective 3.2- To identify and retrofit areas on roadways and within the older portions of
the city without stormwater management systems and implement infrastructure.
City of Oviedo Annual
Goal 4: - To continue with educational campaigns focusing on topics such as non-point
source pollutants, fertilizing responsibly, wetland and floodplain values and to work in
partnership with city residents and developers to maintain the balance of the city’s eco-
system.
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 1
Introduction
Overview
The City of Sanford was incorporated in 1877
in Seminole County. It is located in the
northern section of the county, with the City
of Lake Mary located to the south and
Volusia County to the north.
Unincorporated Seminole County borders
Sanford on its west and east boundaries.
Sanford covers 23.97 square miles making it
the largest municipality within Seminole
County. The city’s population is 68,225.
Involvement with the National Flood
Insurance Program (NFIP)
Sanford was accepted into the National
Flood Insurance Program’s (NFIP)
Community Rating System (CRS) on October
1, 2016 with an initial Rating of 7.
Figure 1. City of Sanford
Source: Seminole County GIS
Figure 2.National Flood Insurance Program
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 2
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They are identifying hazards,
profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process measures the
potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage resulting from natural
hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and infrastructure to natural hazards
(FEMA). This section of the community profile assesses the potential of risk with respect to
floodplain management in Sanford. There are six categories that address the four components
identified in risk assessment as defined through the Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA): identifying flood zones within the city, surface water locations, property value within
each flood zone, insurance statistics, vulnerable populations, and critical facilities.
Figure 3 shows that the percentage of non- submerged acreage found in Sanford. The 0.2 percent
Annual Chance Flood Hazard of the 100 Year Floodplain accounts for 0.9% of the total percentage
of non- submerged acreage. Much of this zone is located near the banks of Lake Monroe. Non-
submerged acreage refers to land not inundated by surface water. Flood Zone A accounts for 3.6%
of the total percentage of non- submerged acres. Flood Zone AE comprises 5.7% and is
predominantly found in the surrounding areas of Lake Monroe. Flood Zone AH is 0.79% of the
total make- up. Flood Zone X is 89% of the total percentage of non- submerged acres.
.
Figure 3. FEMA Flood Zone, Percentage of Acreage for the City of Sanford, 2013, Non-Submerged Acres
*of the 100 Year Flood
Source: Seminole County GIS Dept
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 3
Surface Water
Table 1. Percentage of Total Surface Water
There are 23 bodies of surface water located
in Sanford. Surface water accounts for 6.2%
of the total land make– up. Table 1 displays
the three largest bodies of water and their
percentage of total surface water in Sanford.
All bodies of water are located in or within
close proximity of the Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA).
The vast majority of these lakes are closed
basin lakes with no outlets. Rainfall causes
closed basin lakes to rise faster than drain.
The result is a variation in water elevation
that can lead to flooding. Lake Monroe is a
notable exception connecting to the St.
Johns River.
Lake Monroe is the largest lake in Sanford
accounting for 53.8% of the total surface
water make up of the city. The body of water
is located to north of the city.
Little Lake Mary is the second largest body of
water comprising 5.6% of the total surface
water and is located in the southern section
of this jurisdiction.
Lake Ada is also located in the southern
portion of Sanford. This body of water makes
up 5.4% of the total percentage of surface
water.
Figure 4. Lake Monroe, Aerial View
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Figure 5. Little Lake Mary
Source: Seminole County Water Atlas
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 4
Property Value
Sanford has over 5.7 billion dollars in appraised value that could be vulnerable to flood risk
damage. The largest property value risk is found in Flood Zone X, with 95%. Flood Zone AE
accounts for the second largest appraised value that could be vulnerable to risk at 2.7%. Those
properties zone A, AH, and within the 0.2 Pct. Annual Chance Hazard of the 100-year flood have
over 124 million dollars of property risk.
Insurance Policies
Policies in Force Insurance in Force Whole Written Premiums in Force
635 $174,076,600 $431,793
Total property losses in Sanford are numbered at 79 properties since 1978. Losses that had been
paid in full accounted for accounted for 41 claims and losses that had been closed without
payment (CWOP) were totaled at 28 claims. There were no losses that had not been paid in full.
Total payments made to claimants since 1978 is valued at $609,850.70.
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community who are considered to be most
prone to risk in the time of hazard. 12.65% of the population is over the age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss Properties are defined as those properties that have been flooded on more than
one occasion. Sanford eight repetitive loss properties.
Table 2. Total Appraised Value by Flood Zone, 2020
Table 3. Policy Statistics for the City of Sanford, as of 09/20/2020
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 5
If properties do begin to meet that criteria then there are buy out programs that can be initiated
to purchase the property. These measures protect residents from harm and remove development
from the floodplain (Schwab, 2014).
Manufactured Homes
Figure 6. Manufactured Home Flood Hazard
Manufactured home communities, such as the one showed above in Sanford are vulnerable populations
susceptible to flood hazard without proper mitigation measures.
Sanford has a large mobile home park located in its southern jurisdiction that could be vulnerable
to flood inundation. Figure 6 illustrates the potential risk. The City’s Land Development Code sets
standards for these forms of residences. Mitigation policies that help protect flood damage to
manufactured homes include setting the permanent foundation to no lower than two feet above
the base flood elevation and must have an adequate anchored foundation system to circumvent
flotation and other forms of movement.
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those facilities that provide a critical function and should be
protected from flood damage. Seminole County has identified 66 critical facilities throughout
Sanford and the emergency function they provide in times of crisis. No facility is located in the
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 6
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters
(FEMA). The policies adopted by Sanford work to achieve these objectives and prevent flood
damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies including Future Land Use,
Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building Practices all identified through the
city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code. .
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone (non-submerged acres) for the City of
Sanford is aggregated below. This analysis reflects the hazards that come with planning for
growth in flood prone areas.
Table 5. 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard* by Future Land Use (FLU), 2020
0.2% Annual chance by FLU
In Sanford, 31.13% of the total percentage of acreage for the 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Hazard
of the 100-year flood is planned for the Waterfront Downtown Business District, mixed use
district. The next largest future land use Resource Protection District at 21.72%. Low Density
Residential districts are the third largest future use in this flood hazard area at 13.39%. Airport
Industry & Commerce, another variation of a mixed- use district accounts for 6.38%.
FLU Designation area Percentage of total acres
AIC 68.79 6.38
GC 18.21 1.69
HDR 99.41 9.22
I 6.75 0.62
LDRSF 144.32 13.39
MDR15 52.73 4.89
NC 4.82 0.44
PRO 11.42 1.05
PSP 29.83 2.76
ROI 21.11 1.95
RP 234.02 21.72
SE 50.54 4.69
WDBD 335.48 31.13
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 7
Table 6. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use (FLU), 2020
Flood Zone A by FLU
Airport Industry and Commerce accounts for 45.02% of the total future land use in Flood Zone A.
West Side Industry and Commerce comprises 13.49% of the total future land use. The third largest
planned future use in this flood hazard area is I-4 High Intensity, a variation of a mixed-use district
accounts for 10.98% of the total make- up.
Table 7. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use (FLU), 2020
Flood Zone AE by FLU
FLU Designation area Percentage of total acres
AIC 1754.69 45.02
GC 162.76 4.17
HDR 104.82 2.68
HI 428.05 10.98
LDRMH 73.64 1.88
LDRSF 269.78 6.92
MDR10 162.79 4.17
MDR15 65.15 1.67
NC 28.61 0.73
PRO 69.87 1.79
ROI 3.12 0.08
RP 247.84 6.35
WIC 525.93 13.49
FLU Designation area Percentage of total acres
AIC 1850.67 39.45
GC 191.19 4.07
HDR 141.30 3.01
HI 62.71 1.33
I 36.37 0.77
LDRMH 73.64 1.56
LDRSF 390.71 8.32
MDR10 90.13 1.92
MDR15 218.91 4.66
NC 7.02 0.14
PRO 139.34 2.97
PSP 407.73 8.69
ROI 45.97 0.97
RP 698.17 14.88
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 8
In Flood Zone AE Airport Industry and Commerce comprises 39.45% of the total future land use.
The next largest future use is Resource Protection District with 14.48% of the total make- up. Low
Density Residential Single Family is 8.32%.
Table 8. Flood Zone AH by Future Land Use (FLU), 2020
Flood Zone AH by FLU
Sanford’s Flood Zone AH is predominately planned for Public Semi-Public at 50.80% of the total
future acreage. The next largest future use is Resource Protection District at 15.80%. Low Density
Residential Mobile Home comprises 12.73%.
Table 9. Flood Zone X by Future Land Use (FLU), 2020
Flood Zone X by FLU
SE 37.09 0.79
WDBD 299.89 6.39
FLU Designation area Percentage of total acres
GC 33.63 5.81
HDR 36.74 6.35
LDRMH 73.64 12.73
LDRSF 35.25 6.09
MDR15 8.66 1.49
PRO 2.03 0.35
PSP 293.77 50.80
ROI 3.08 0.53
RP 91.39 15.80
FLU Designation area Percentage of total acres
AIC 68.79 5.36
GC 29.38 2.28
HDR 99.41 7.74
I 6.75 0.52
LDRSF 144.32 11.24
MDR10 132.76 10.34
MDR15 52.73 4.10
NC 4.82 0.37
PRO 11.42 0.89
PSP 29.83 2.32
ROI 21.11 1.64
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 9
RP 295.68 23.04
SE 50.54 3.93
WDBD 335.48 26.14
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 10
Waterfront Downtown Business Distrct comprises 26.14% of the total future land use in Flood
Zone X. The next highest district is Reeource Protection at 23.04%. Low Density Residential- Single
Family also makes up a significant percentage of this Flood Zone at 11.24%. Medium Density
Residential comprises 10.34%
Figure 7. Future Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile
Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 11
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to which
a municipality values its natural heritage.
Best practices in Floodplain Management
mitigation include preserving natural areas
located in floodplains or directing open
space/ recreation uses towards them.
Sanford has committed itself to the
protection of wetlands, aquatic habitats,
floodways, and drainage ways. In only
certain circumstances, minimal
development is permitted if the reason is
valid.
Under Section IV (Natural Resources) of the
Compreshensive Plan the City of Sanford has
laid out the Goals and Objectives to protect
our environment for future generations. The
City cooperates with the Florida Department
of Environmental Protection and the City of
Sanford is part of the St. Johns River
Management District.
Erosion and Sedimentation Control
The city’s comprehensive plan sets
objectives to protect minerals, soils and
vegetation. These policies protect bodies of
water and wetlands from siltation.
Section IV of the plan is dedicated to Natural
Resources. Objective CON-1.5, Combat Soil
Erosion, intends to reduce the incidence of
soil erosion caused by development,
breaches in shorelines and lands exposed for
agricultural purposes. Policy CON-1.5.1
covers the implementation of Erosion and
Sedimentation Controls as stipulated within
the Land Development Regulations.
Figure 8. Wetlands
Wetlands from the St. Johns River that are
protected from development.
Figure 9. Development along the St. Johns River
Stormwater Management
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Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 12
Stormwater management practices are an
essential component in mitigating flood
damage. Policies enacted at the municipal
level are essential in controlling stormwater
run-off to create minimal damage impact on
property.
The City of Sanford has many policies and
objective to help with the management of
stormwater. All of these provide guidelines
on where and how many drainage systems
are built.
Under Objective 4-5.1, there must be
adequate stormwater management to allow
for new development
Policy 4-5.1.2 states that stormwater
drainage shall be addressed as watershed
management and shall be coordinate plans
and policies with the appropriate Public
Agencies including local, State and Federal.
Policy 4-5.1.4 Addresses water quality and
quantity concerns to protect the
hydrological and ecological functions of
water resources while permitting the most
beneficial uses to occur.
Figure 10. Proper Stormwater Management
None of the stormwater has reached the
property due to proper stormwater
management practices.
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Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 13
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in mitigating
flood damage to structures located in flood
prone zones. There are different practices
that help protect property and citizens.
Sanford uses the current Florida Building
Code, with some modifications and higher
standards. One of the higher standards
dictates that the lowest floor level of any
new structure, including the basement, shall
be a minimum of 2-feet
above the base flood elevation.
Before development can begin, permits
must be submitted about the nature,
location, dimensions, and elevations of the
area under consideration for development.
A structure must be certified after
placement of the lowest floor and proper
floodproofing has been constructed. If they
aren’t certified or meet standards, all
construction must cease.
Figure 11. Proper Building Practices
The correct way to prepare a property for
development.
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Sanford Floodplain Management Profile 14
Responsible party Deadline
CITY OF SANFORD Annual
Goal 1: Engage in risk-based mitigation planning resulting in sustainable actions that reduce or
eliminate risks to life and property from flooding.
Objective 1.1- Participate in Local Mitigation Strategy meetings and communicate
concerns and issues.
Objective 1.2-Coordinate with the County and other local government agencies to
develop and administer outreach programs to gain participation in mitigation programs by
business, industry, institutions and community groups.
Goal 2: Enforce proper building and stormwater objectives and practices.
Objective 1.1- Continue training and review of building codes.
Objective 1.2- Perform ongoing maintenance of city streets, storm drains, street
culverts, and storm water pond inlets and outfalls.
Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
1 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Introduction
Overview
The City of Winter Springs was
incorporated in 1959 in Seminole County.
It is in the central section of the county,
with the City of Longwood to its west
and the City of Oviedo to its east.
Unincorporated Seminole County
borders Winter Springs to the south and
Lake Jesup is the northern boundary.
Winter Springs covers 15 square miles.
The city’s population is 39,333 as of
2020.
Involvement with the National
Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
Winter Springs became eligible for the
National Flood Insurance Program’s
(NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS)
on October 1, 1993. The municipality
ranked a class six(6) rating, receiving
2,000- 2,499 Credit Points (CT) during
its classification and continues to
maintain this designation as of 2020.
The discount percentage for those
properties in the Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA) is twenty (20%) percent
while the percent discount for non-
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is ten
(10%) percent. The city’s participation in
the program is listed as current.
Figure 1. City of Winter Springs
Source: Seminole County GIS
Figure 2. National Flood Insurance Program
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2 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
% % 1%
Flood Zone Percentage of Acreage
Non-submerged Acres
2 6 1%
50%
40%
A AE AH 0.2 Percent Annual Change Hazard* X Total
Risk Assessment
Communities must address four components when assessing risk. They are identifying
hazards, profiling hazard events, inventorying assets, and estimating loss. This process
measures the potential loss of life, personal injury, economic injury, and property damage
resulting from natural hazards by assessing the vulnerability of people, buildings, and
infrastructure to natural hazards. This section of the community profile assesses the
potential of risk with respect to floodplain management in Winter Springs. There are six
categories that address the four components identified in risk assessment as defined
through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): identifying flood zones
within the city, surface water locations, property value within each flood zone, insurance
statistics, vulnerable populations, and critical facilities.
Figure 3. Flood Zone, Percentage of Acreage for the City of Winter Springs, 2021, Non-Submerged
Figure 3 shows that the percentage of non-submerged acreage found in Winter Springs.
0.2 Percent Annual Chance Hazard of the 100-year flood accounts for 1.84% of the total
percentage of non-submerged acreage. Non-submerged acreage refers to land not
inundated by surface water. Flood Zone A comprises 4.02% of the total make-up. Flood
Zone AE is 12.39% and Flood Zone AH is 2.59%. Flood Zone X accounts for 79.24% of
the total percentage of non-submerged acres.
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3 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Surface Water
Figure 4. Surface Water Runoff
The majority of the City’s surface water runoff is into Lake Jesup and is conveyed by
three of its main tributaries, Howell Creek, Gee Creek and Soldiers Creek.
Howell Creek runs through the central portion of the City and has an approximate 3750-
acre tributary area, thirty eight percent (38%) in the City. Bear Creek, a tributary to
Howell Creek, also runs through a portion of the City and converges with Howell Creek
just north of Winter Springs Boulevard.
Gee Creek runs through the southwestern portion of the City and has an approximate
2,464-acre tributary in the area, twenty six (26%) percent of the City. No Name Creek is
a tributary to Gee Creek and converges with Gee Creek just south of SR 434.
A very small portion of the City about nine (9%) percent is with the Soldiers Creek Basin,
approximately 884 acres. The creek itself enters the City’s limits near the SR 419
crossing before discharging into the western part of Lake Jesup.
The 100-year flood plains in the City are located along the creeks, along the shores of
lakes and in some landlocked low spot areas.
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4 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Property Value
Table 2. Total Appraised Value by Flood Zone, 2014
Winter Springs has over 2.9 billion dollars in appraised value that could be vulnerable to
flood risk damage. The largest property value risk is found in Flood Zone X, 78%. Flood
Zone AE accounts for the second largest appraised value that could be vulnerable to risk
at 12%. The next most notable flood zone that has high-appraised value is A with over 85
million dollars in property. Those properties within the 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Hazard
of the 100-year flood have over 191 million dollars of property risk.
Insurance Policies
Table 3. Policy Statistics for the City of Winter Springs, as of 10/01/2025
Policies in Force Insurance in Force – Whole Average Premium + Federal
Policy
645 $105,670,000 $813
Winter Springs has 645 insurance policies in force according to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The total coverage amount for these insurance policies is
$105,670,000 while the premium paid for them averaged $226,473.
Table 4. Loss Statistics for the City of Winter Springs, as of 10/01/2025
Total Losses Closed Losses Open Losses CWOP Losses Total Payments
106 106 0 4 $205,078.94
Source: FEMA
Total property losses in Winter Springs are numbered at 106 properties since 1978.
Losses that had been paid in full accounted for 78 claims and losses that had been closed
without payment (CWOP) were totaled at 28 claims. There were no losses not paid in
full. Total payments made to claimants since 1978 is valued at $4,607,173.
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5 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Vulnerable Population
Vulnerable populations are those segments of the community who are considered to be
most prone to risk in the time of hazard. Approximately eleven (11%) percent of the
population is over the age of 65.
Repetitive Loss Property
Repetitive Loss (RL) properties are defined as those properties that have been flooded on
more than one occasion. Winter Springs currently has ten (10) repetitive loss properties
and Community Rating System (CRS) Outreach Program letters of standard guidelines is
sent annually to 22 properties in the RL areas.
In the event that properties do begin to meet that criteria, there are home buyout programs
that can be initiated to purchase the property. These measures protect residents from
harm and remove development from the floodplain (FEMA, 2019).
Manufactured Homes
Figure 5. Manufactured Home Flood Hazard
Manufactured home communities, such as the one showed above in Winter Springs are
vulnerable populations susceptible to flood hazard without proper mitigation measures.
Manufactured homes are symbolized as red points.
Winter Springs has one (1) manufactured home communities located in its jurisdiction that
could be vulnerable to flood inundation. Figure 6 illustrates the potential risk. The City’s
Land Development Code set standards for these forms of residences. Mitigation policies
that help protect flood damage to manufactured homes include setting the elevation above
the base flood level and must be anchored. The foundation must be anchored in order to
prevent flotation or any varying form of movement.
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6 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Critical Facilities
Critical facilities are defined as those locations that provide a critical function and should
be protected from flood damage. Seminole County has identified nineteen (19) critical
facilities throughout Winter Springs and the emergency services they provide in times of
crisis. None of the facilities is located in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). Name of
the facilities and addresses are provided below.
Figure 7. Location of Critical Facilities
Source: Seminole County GIS
Critical Facilities:
# NAME ADDRESS FLOOD
ZONE
1 Winter Springs Water
Treatment Plant (WTP) # 2
(West)
700 SHEOAH BLVD,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
2 Winter Springs Wastewater
Treatment Plant (WWTP, West)
1000 W SR 434, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
3 Winter Springs Civic Center 400 N EDGEMON AVE,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
4 Winter Springs Senior Center 400 N EDGEMON AVE,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
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7 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
5 Winter Springs Fire Department
Station # 24
102 N MOSS RD, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
6 Winter Springs Public Safety
Complex
300 N MOSS RD, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
7 Winter Springs Water
Treatment Plant (WTP) # 3
110 W BAHAMA RD, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
8 Seminole County Public
Schools Transportation Service
Station
822 E State Rd 434, Winter
Springs,
X
9 Keeth Elementary School 425 TUSKAWILLA RD,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
10 Winter Springs Fire Department
Station # 26
850 NORTHERN WAY,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
11 Winter Springs Water
Treatment Plant (WTP) # 1
851 NORTHERN WAY,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
12 Winter Springs Wastewater
Treatment Plant (WWTP) East
1560 WINTER SPRINGS
BLVD, WINTER SPRINGS,
32708
X
13 Winter Springs City Hall 1126 E SR 434, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
14 Highlands Elementary School 1600 SHEPARD RD, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
15 Layer Elementary School 4201 SR 419, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
17 Winter Springs Elementary
School
701 W SR 434, WINTER
SPRINGS, 32708
X
18 Winter Springs High School 130 TUSKAWILLA RD,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
19 Indian Trails Middle School 415 TUSKAWILLA RD,
WINTER SPRINGS, 32708
X
Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
8 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of
disasters. The policies adopted by Winter Springs work to achieve these objectives and
prevent flood damage. This community profile analyzes mitigation policies including
Future Land Use, Environmental Efforts, Stormwater Management, and Building Practices
all identified through the city’s Comprehensive Plan and Land Development Code.
Future Land Use
An analysis of the Future Land Use Map by Flood Zone (non-submerged acres) for the
City of Winter Springs is aggregated below. This analysis reflects the hazards that come
with planning for growth in flood prone areas.
Table 6. 0.2 Percent Annual Chance Flood Hazard* by Future Land Use (FLU), 2021
Flood Zone by Future Land Use Acres Percentage
0.2 Pct Annual Chance Flood Hazard* 1.84%
Low Density Residential 66.15 45.85%
Conservation 21.42 14.85%
Rural Residential 11.96 8.29%
Medium Density Residential 9.91 6.87%
Recreation 8.74 6.06%
Town Center District 8.45 5.86%
Public / Semi-Public 6.78 4.70%
Greenway Interchange District 5.01 3.47%
Industrial 2.33 1.62%
High Density Residential 2.09 1.45%
Commercial 0.79 0.55%
Mixed-Use 0.64 0.44%
Total
*of the 100 Year Flood
144.27 100.00%
In Winter Springs, 45.85% of the total percentage of acreage for the 0.2 Percent Annual
Chance Hazard of the 100-year flood is planned for Low Density Residential. The second
largest planned use is Conservation at 14.85%. The next largest future land use in this
flood hazard area is Rural Residential at 8.29%. Medium Residential and Recreation
comprise 6.87% and 6.06%. Town Center District, which is a variation of a mixed- use
district, is 5.86% of the total make up.
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9 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Table 6. Flood Zone A by Future Land Use (FLU), 2021
Flood Zone by Future Land Use Acres Percentage
Flood Zone A 4.02%
Low Density Residential 101.62 32.35%
Rural Residential 76.42 24.33%
Recreation 70.47 22.44%
Conservation 52.36 16.67%
Medium Density Residential 6.57 2.09%
Public / Semi Publis 4.63 1.47%
High Density Residential 2.01 0.64%
Total 314.08 100.00%
Low Density Residential accounts for 32.35% of the total percentage of acreage in Flood
Zone A. The next largest future planned use is Rural Residential at 24.33%. Recreation
and Conservation account for 22.44% and 16.67%. Medium Density Residential
comprises 2.09% and Public/Semi-Public is planned for 1.47% of the total percentage of
acreage.
Table 7. Flood Zone AE by Future Land Use (FLU), 2021
Flood Zone by Future Land Use Acres Percentage
Flood Zone AE 12.39%
Conservation 534.58 55.17%
Low Density Residential 140.91 14.54%
Towne Center 86.9 8.97%
Greenway Interchange District 78.62 8.11%
Recreation 37.29 3.85%
Rural Residential 27.03 2.79%
Medium Density Residential 20.52 2.12%
High Density Residential 12.58 1.30%
Industrial 11.01 1.14%
Commercial 10.44 1.08%
Public / Semi-Public 4.96 0.51%
Mixed-Use 4.12 0.43%
Total 968.96 100.00%
In Flood Zone AE Conservation is designated for 55.17% of the total percentage of acres
of future land use. The next largest future is Low Density Residential at 14.54%. Town
Center District and Greenway Interchange District comprise 8.97% and 8.11%. Recreation
accounts for 3.85% of the total future use in this flood prone area.
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10 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Table 8. Flood Zone AH by Future Land Use (FLU), 2021
Flood Zone by Future Land Use Acres Percentage
Flood Zone AH 2.51%
Conservation 192.34 97.96%
Medium Density Residential 3.08 1.57%
Low Density Residential 0.71 0.36%
Rural Residential 0.22 0.11%
Total 196.35 100.00%
Conservation accounts for 97.96% of the total future land use in Flood Zone AH. Medium
Density comprises 1.57%.
Table 9. Flood Zone X by Future Land Use (FLU), 2021
Flood Zone by Future Land Use Acres Percentage
Flood Zone X 79.24%
Low Denisty Residential 2380.9 38.45%
Medium Density Residential 892.72 14.42%
Rural Residential 768.98 12.42%
Town Center District 373.56 6.03%
Commercial 317.38 5.13%
Recreation 323.53 5.23%
Greenway Interchange District 289.25 4.67%
Public / Semi-Public 269.54 4.35%
Conservation 243.38 3.93%
High Desnity Residential 177.34 2.86%
Industrial 35.96 0.58%
Mixed Use 119.2 1.93%
Total 6191.74 100.00%
The largest future planned use in Flood Zone X is Low Density Residential at 38.45% of
the total make- up. Medium Density Residential accounts for 14.42% and Rural
Residential is 12.42%. Public/ Semi Public comprises 4.35% of the total make- up.
Recreation accounts for 5.23% of the future planned use in this flood zone.
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Figure 6. Future Land Use and Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Figure 6a. Future Land Use
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12 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Winter Springs COMM plan
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13 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Figure 6b. FEMA Flood Zone Map - Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
Environmental Efforts
Environmental policies are a means to
which a municipality values its natural
heritage. Best practices in Floodplain
Management mitigation include
preserving natural areas located in
floodplains or directing open space/
recreation uses towards them.
In recent years, development in areas of
Lake Jesup, wetlands, and the 100-year
flood plain have become much stricter.
Figure 8 shows where these areas that is
in the Conservation Overlay.
Conservation Overlay in regards to the
Future Land Use Map- 2030. Even
though this map exists, it does not
prohibit development in these areas,
rather point out sensitive areas. If these
areas are deemed not sensitive,
development may be allowed.
In Winter Springs, most of the wetlands
are found near Lake Jesup. These
wetlands are considered palustrine
which consist of wet prairie, hydric
hammocks and hardwood swamps,
bayhead, and areas of cypress. These
areas are being protected because they
are in the floodzone and create a natural
mitigation against floods.
Erosion and Sedimentation
Control
The City’s Comprehensive Plan sets
objectives to protect minerals, soils and
vegetation. These policies protect bodies
of water and wetlands from siltation. The
regulations for water quality, erosion and
sedimentation control for both the city
Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
14 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
and state regulatory agencies are
enforced during the development review
process and the implementation of the
capital improvements, private new
developments and re-developments.
Figure 7. Conservation Overlay
Conservation Overlay in Winter Springs.
Figure 8. Soil Map
In Winter Springs, development is
impacted by the type of soil present. This
is determined by how well they drain and
how much load they can bear. Figure 9
shows the areas where soil is approved
for development by the Soil Conservation
Service.
The two main soil types in Winter Springs
are Urban Land-Tavares-Millhopper and
Urban Land-Astatula-Apopka. Both of
these soils are known for being well
drained.
Stormwater Management
Stormwater management practices are
an essential component in mitigating
flood damage. Policies enacted at the
municipal level are essential in
controlling stormwater run- off to create
minimal damage impact on property.
There are 177 stormwater retention
ponds in Winter Springs.
In Winter Springs, there are many
policies that help with stormwater
management.
Policy 1.2.8 states that stormwater
management codes in the Code of
Ordinances must set the standards for
onsite stormwater systems and ways to
lessen the amount of untreated run- off
into the city’s lakes.
Policy 1.2.9 is the Stormwater Master
Plan. This policy states development is
not allowed unless it abides to the
Stormwater Master Plan.
Policy 1.10.1 is the Public Utility System
Land Requirements. This policy states
that proposed development in relation to
the existing utility and land needs
systems must be adequate. Stormwater
management falls in this category.
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15 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Figure 9. The Soils
On the left is the Urban Land-Tavares-
Millhopper Soil and the right is the Urban
Land-Astatula-Apopka Soil.
Building Practices
Building Practices are essential in
mitigating flood damage to structures
located in flood prone zones. There are
different practices that help protect
property and citizens.
Policy 1.2.7 requires all new construction
or substantial improvement and damage
repair must fall into the standards of the
National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP).
The lowest floor of a structure must be
eighteen inches above the Base Flood
Elevation (BFE) established in the 100-
year plain. The Florida Building Code
mandates the BFE plus one foot free
board requirement.
The City Code of Ordinances states
many codes that help prevent flood
damage. If any structure is within a
flood zone, the City’s CFM representative
conducts a thorough assessment of the
property and location.
In December 31, 2023, Winter Springs
adopted the 2023 Florida Building
Codes, 8th edition, Chapter 16.
The City’s Building Department
maintains a BCEGS Class 4/4 rating.
Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
16 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
Goal 1 – City’s Floodplain Management Implementation Activities (Annual
Basis)
Objective 1.1 – Continue to maintain the City’s CRS Class 6
The City continues to implement the steps and procedures required to maintain
the City’s Class 6 designation. This is an ongoing item that will continue
throughout the duration of the certification. City will continue to review, monitor,
and inspect all developments within flood-prone areas to ensure compliance with
FEMA requirements and achieve satisfactory floodplain management outcomes.
This will benefit City’s residents by continuing to spread awareness about Special
Flood Hazard Areas and providing cost savings through insurance discounts. The
only cost associated with this objective is the time that staff spent coordinating
with FEMA.
Objective 1.2 – Continue to provide accessible flood protection information and
public outreach
The City continues to provide flood protection information and resources to
current and prospective residents and business owners. Information is available
at City Hall, the City’s website, and by contacting the City’s CRS coordinator.
This is an ongoing item that will continue throughout the duration of the
certification. The City will modify the availability of these items as current
accessibility requirements adapt. The costs associated with this objective are
minimal and only require staff time and coordination.
Objective 1.3 – Continue to preserve open space areas
The City of Winter Springs defines open space and conservation areas within the
City’s Future Land Use Maps, Recreation and Open Space Element and
Conservation Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The City continues to
preserve these areas to the greatest extent possible during planning and land
development review. The City reviews these areas on a regular basis and the
costs associated are minimal to the City.
Objective 1.4 – Continue to enforce flood management provisions
The City enforces flood management provisions through permit and land
development review. The City’s flood management provisions are more
restrictive than the current FEMA minimums, which has likely resulted in a lessen
impact to structures within Special Flood Hazard Areas. Our goal is to minimize
recurring flood damages to properties within the floodplain and to encourage the
adoption of higher development standards in flood-affected areas.
The cost associated with this objective is minimal to the City and is part of
standard permit review.
Objective 1.5 – Continue to provide the inspection and maintenance of the
drainage infrastructure and system
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17 Winter Springs Floodplain Management Profile
The City performs routine inspections and maintenance activities on all publicly
owned infrastructure as part of the City’s National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System permit. This includes periodic
inspections and maintenance of critical City outfalls, pipes, inlets, and weirs to
ensure efficient drainage conveyance for stormwater and flood flows. This is an
ongoing item and the City typically exceeds the State minimums for inspections.
Not including staff wages, the City typically spends about
$250,000 between maintenance and capital improvements on the drainage
infrastructure and system.
Goal 2 – Work in conjunction with the county, the cities and other local
governments to create and support floodplain management throughout the
county
Objective 2.1 – Participate in the countywide Floodplain Management Plan and
associated Floodplain Management Team working group
The City continues to work with the county, surrounding cities and FEMA in a
collaborative effort to support floodplain management in Seminole County and its
associated cities. This is an ongoing item that has minimal costs to the City.
Objective 2.2 – Coordinate with the County and other local government agencies
to develop and administer outreach programs by business, industry, institutions,
and community groups.
The City continues to work with the County and local agencies to participate in
the various outreach programs led by the County. This is an ongoing item with
minimal costs to the City.