Flood zones and floodplain rules in Bell County

A 100-year floodplain is land that has a 1 percent annual chance of flooding in any given year. In Bell County, these areas exist along multiple waterways, including the Leon River, Lampasas River, Little River, and Nolan Creek. If you own or are buying property near any of these streams, look up its flood zone before you close. Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov and enter the address.

The Bell County Engineer's Office is the designated floodplain administrator for unincorporated land. Before you build, grade, or fill in a floodplain, you need a floodplain development permit from that office. You must also provide an Elevation Certificate from a licensed professional. Structures in the 100-year floodplain must be elevated above the Base Flood Elevation. Any fill placed in the floodplain requires an engineering analysis showing it will not raise flood levels for neighbors.

If your lender is federally backed and your property is in a designated Special Flood Hazard Area, federal law requires you to carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Contact the Bell County Engineer at (254) 933-5275 with permit questions.