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Floodplain Information
In the simplest terms, a Floodplain is an area that is subject to natural flooding from an adjacent waterway. This is generally defined or shown as a 100-year storm event known as the 100-year Floodplain. Development within the Floodplain is regulated at the Federal, State, and local levels in order to mitigate flood damage. The 100-year Floodplain is determined through the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and Flood Insurance Studies (FIS) through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The City of Cherry Hills Village is unique from most other communities in that the majority of the 100-year Floodplain within the City's boundaries is located on private property.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and Community Rating System (CRS)
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is governed by FEMA and provides flood insurance to property owners, renters, and businesses. The NFIP works with communities that adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations that help mitigate the effects of flooding.
The Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the NFIP. In CRS communities, flood insurance premium rates are discounted to reflect the reduced flood risk resulting from the community's increased efforts. According to the FEMA website, Cherry Hills Village is one of over 1,500 communities that participates in the CRS nationwide.
Below are floodplain mapping resources.
FEMA Mapping Service Center
Mile High Flood District (MHFD) Mapping
Cherry Hills Village Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and Flood Insurance Studies (FIS)
FIRM Map - Panel 163 FIS 1 of 6
FIRM Map - Panel 164 FIS 2 of 6
FIRM Map - Panel 168 FIS 3 of 6
FIS 4 of 6
FIS 5 of 6
FIS 6 of 6 (Does not apply to Cherry Hills Village)
Floodplain Development Permits, Floodplain Variances, and Elevation Certificates
Floodplain development permits allow for bank stabilization and dredging of ponds and lakes. All other development in the floodplain requires a floodplain variance. Chapter 16, Article 5 of the Municipal Code outlines the floodplain development permit requirements. Download the Land Use Application.
Additionally, for all new or substantially improved construction within the floodplain, an Elevation Certificate is required. Elevation Certificates can be obtained by calling 303-783-2721 or at buildingdepartment@cherryhillsvillage.com.
Flood Preparedness and Flood Events
Below are a few resources for flood preparedness and flood events.
NFIP Participants Program List
Arapahoe County Office of Emergency Management
Helpful Tips for Village Residents in Flood Hazard Areas
- Know the extent and nature of the flood hazard
- Plan escape routes to high ground
- Buy flood insurance for your property
- During times of heavy rainfall, watch the level of water in the drainage way and stay tuned to radio or television for possible flood warnings
- Evacuate the flood hazard area in times of an impending flood