This past winter season brought record-breaking rain and snowfall to Yavapai County and with that come a flood of issues all county residents need to be aware of. It is important to know the requirements for moving dirt in these areas for those who live in or near a floodplain.
According to Yavapai County Flood Control District Director Lynn Whitman, “As we look toward the monsoon season, it is important to examine the path of water on your property and prepare to protect your assets. Cleaning out washes to improve capacity is an effective tool. However, a more robust solution may be required to protect your home. Now is a good time to contact the Yavapai County Flood Control District in case a permit is needed to ensure time for review and construction prior to the monsoon season.”
A grading permit may be required if a resident is moving more than 50 cubic yards of earth; an example is 27 feet by 25 feet by 2 feet. All grading permits require a site plan showing existing and proposed contour lines at two-foot increments as well as cut and fill amounts and finished floor or pad elevations.
Additional submittals may be required prior to and after issuance of a DP, in order to satisfy the requirements of the DP. Contact the Yavapai County Flood Control District at 771-3197 for more information.
Other state or federal permits may be required depending on the type of development. Maintenance but not construction of drainage ditches, structures and/or irrigation ditches are some of the activities that are exempt under the Clean Water Act, Section 404(f)(1).
To find out whether specific activities are exempt, contact the local Army
