Austin’s floodplains are the areas likely to flood when our creeks rise and flow over their banks. Every creek and lake has a floodplain, regardless of whether it is mapped or not.

Our office maintains floodplain maps and hydrologic and hydraulic models, administers floodplain regulations, provides information to help protect property from floods and reviews applications to build or remodel in the floodplain.

The work we do ensures that Austin is compliant with FEMA rules, protects lives and properties, and allows Austin residents access to more affordable, federally-backed flood insurance.

Floodplain Studies

Floodplains change over time due to development, capital improvement projects and other factors. We periodically restudy watersheds to keep pace with such changes. We are currently studying the Onion and Upper Brushy watersheds.

• Floodplain Changes General Information
• Upper Brushy Creek Floodplain Changes
• Onion Creek Floodplain and Flood Mitigation Study

In-Depth FEMA Documents Available for Download

• Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods
• Repairing Your Flooded Home
• Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting
• Engineering Principles and Practices
• Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone Home
• Mandatory Purchase of Flood Insurance
• Protecting Building Utilities from Flood Damage