Commissioners approve Pearson residence floodplain development permit with conditions

Park County commissioners approved a floodplain development permit for a proposed 1,200-square-foot residence on property owned by Zoe Pearson, located about 9.6 miles southwest of Cody and adjacent to the South Fork of the Shoshone River.

Joy Hill of Park County Planning and Zoning summarized the staff report: the application, submitted May 7, included a revised site plan and a warranty deed showing ownership; the proposed main floor elevation (5,479 feet) is well above the base flood elevation calculated for the site. Hill said existing development includes a 2,878-square-foot residence and accessory structures and that the proposed structure will be about 260 feet from the river.

The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers were notified; Game and Fish recommended avoiding human activity November 15–April 30 and referred the applicant to BearWise guidance. The county engineer reported no public-works concerns and anticipated negligible flood impacts because the proposed finished-floor elevations are significantly above the calculated base flood elevation.

Staff recommended approval with conditions: the permit would apply to the specified accessory housing unit and small wastewater system; approval would expire one year after issuance unless work is substantially begun; the applicant must obtain an approved building/zoning permit and an approved small wastewater system permit before construction; county personnel may conduct site visits and the applicant must notify the floodplain administrator on project completion and provide pre- and post-construction photos; and any changes to the project require a new permit. A nearby landowner submitted written opposition citing flood risk and wildlife values; the board approved the permit on a motion and voice vote.