Floodplain

Changes to Floodplain 2023-2024

What does this mean for your property?

  1. Meredith Detsch

    Planning Director

Why are the maps changing?

In cooperation with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), North Carolina is updating its official floodplain maps in several counties.  Wilkes is one of many counties with it's floodplains being studied to assess any changes that have occurred over the years. Floodplains can shift overtime, therefore the various federal and state agencies collaborate with local governments to ensure the floodplain maps stay accurate.  After much work and analysis to update the maps, the state creates a draft – or “preliminary” – version of its updated flood maps for the public to review before the new maps become final.  If the state’s flood maps show the presence of floodplain on your property, you may encounter the following implications:

a heightened risk of flooding on your property; 
your mortgage company may require you to obtain flood insurance;
and/or there may be restrictions on what you can build on your property

The Town of North Wilkesboro, Town of Wilkesboro, and Wilkes County have notified property owners that are directly impacted by the new maps.  If you have not received a notice but you wish to view the state’s proposed changes to the flood maps and confirm any impact to your property, you can do so online using the state's mapping resource, see below links. 

How do I see the new maps? 

https://fris.nc.gov/fris/Home.aspx?ST=NC

How do I navigate the new maps? 

Video on navigating FRIS

Can I appeal?

Yes, please visit this link for how to do so. https://flood.nc.gov/ncflood/announcement_one.html

Paddling the YadkinWe love our rivers and all that they provide us here in North Wilkesboro.  From quality drinking water to recreation our residents benefit from them.  However, living near rivers can be dangerous especially during flood events.  The Town of North Wilkesboro has adopted a Flood Prevention Ordinance through the Zoning Ordinance to protect our residents. The purpose and intent of this ordinance is to protect our resident's lives, safety, and health along with ensuring flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program is available for properties impacted by the floodplain.

Check out these helpful links: 

North Carolina FRIS (Flood mapping) 

NC Flood Website

National Flood Insurance Program

FEMA Flood Information 

FEMA Flood Map (Check my property)

Town of North Wilkesboro GIS (Flood Hazard Layer)

Floodplain Ordinance

How do I know if my property is within the floodplain?

Please contact the Planning & Inspections Department to verify this.  You can also take a look at our GIS website here. 

What does this mean for my property if I am in a floodplain?

If your property is within a floodplain additional restrictions apply with development on your property.  Please reach out to the Planning & Inspections Department to determine what permits will be needed before doing any work on your property.  
Floodplain Map 2021