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Jackson County updates floodplain ordinance to match WDNR model and FEMA mapping requirements
Summary
The Board adopted Chapter 20 floodplain zoning updates (Resolution No. 38-10-2025) to align local standards with WDNR model language, Chapter NR 116, and Wis. Stat. § 87.30; the update includes references to FIRMs and procedures for LOMR/LOMC; voice vote passed 19 Aye.
Jackson County supervisors on Oct. 20 adopted Resolution No. 38-10-2025 to update Chapter 20 of the county Floodplain Zoning Ordinance. The amendments update statutory authorization, specify official mapping sources (FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps and multiple dam-failure and hydraulic studies), and clarify standards and permit procedures for development within floodway and floodfringe districts.
Supervisor Sarah Peloquin moved to adopt the ordinance updates and Supervisor Ed Chamberlain seconded; the board approved the resolution by voice vote with 19 present voting Aye. The ordinance text cites Wis. Stat. § 59.694 and Wis. Stat. § 87.30, integrates specific FIRM panel numbers and study dates, and requires applicants to secure appropriate state and federal permits (including DNR and, where required, FEMA Letter of Map Revisions) before approving developments that would alter flood profiles.
Key provisions define permitted and prohibited uses in floodway and floodfringe districts, require hydraulic/hydrologic analyses prepared by registered professional engineers for certain encroachments, set standards for elevation and floodproofing of structures, establish certificate-of-compliance requirements and documentation standards, and describe variance and amendment procedures consistent with FEMA and DNR processes. The ordinance also enumerates penalties and enforcement mechanisms.
