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Des Moines County adopts updated floodplain ordinance timed to new FEMA maps
Summary
The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors approved Ordinance No. 25, updating the county floodplain development code to reference new FEMA FIRM panels that take effect May 26, 2026; a companion resolution sets the ordinance’s effective date to align with the maps.
The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors on April 21 approved a revised floodplain development ordinance (Ordinance No. 25) and a resolution setting its effective date to May 26, 2026, to coincide with updates to FEMA flood insurance rate maps.
Jared Lasser Landers, who summarized the ordinance edits, said the update primarily adds references to recently issued FIRM panels along the Skunk River and aligns the county text with FEMA and state DNR model language. “It won’t likely change anything enforcement-wise in practice, but just to maintain consistency,” Jared said.
Board members moved and seconded the third reading and then approved the ordinance and companion resolution. The roll-call recorded Sarah Marie, Jim Carrey, Tom Brooker and Shane Campbell voting in favor.
Why it matters: the ordinance update ensures county development standards refer to the most recent flood mapping, which affects permitting and regulation for properties in newly mapped flood-hazard zones. The resolution specifies the ordinance will take effect on May 26, 2026, the same day the listed FIRM panels become operative.
What’s next: staff will implement the ordinance changes and apply the new maps in permitting and development reviews beginning May 26; the board recorded the formal adoption in the April 21 minutes.
