Upper Darby Township administers and enforces regulations related to development within designated floodplain areas in accordance with Chapter 305 – Floodplain Management of the Township Code.

Floodplain regulations are intended to reduce the risk of flooding, protect life and property, and ensure compliance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Commonwealth of Pennsylvania requirements.

Any development within a floodplain requires a Floodplain Development Permit.

What is a Floodplain

A floodplain is an area of land that is subject to flooding during storms or rising water conditions.

These areas are identified by FEMA as:

• Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA)
• Flood Zones (such as AE, A, or X zones)

Floodplain maps are used to determine whether a property is located within a regulated flood hazard area.

When a Floodplain Permit is Required

A Floodplain Development Permit is required for any development within a designated floodplain area, including but not limited to:

• Construction of new buildings or structures
• Additions or improvements to existing structures
• Placement of fill, grading, or excavation
• Installation of utilities or service lines
• Installation of mechanical or electrical equipment
• Construction of decks, patios, or accessory structures
• Placement of manufactured homes
• Demolition or removal of structures

Any activity that alters land or structures within a floodplain requires a permit.

Important Requirement

A Floodplain Development Permit is required in addition to all other required permits.

This may include:

• Building Permits
• Electrical, Plumbing, or Mechanical Permits
• Zoning Approval

Approval of one permit does not eliminate the requirement for others.

Before You Apply

Prior to submitting an application, applicants should:

• Determine whether the property is located in a floodplain
• Review FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs)
• Consult with the Township regarding requirements
• Prepare all required plans and documentation

Failure to properly identify floodplain conditions may delay the application.

Application Requirements

A complete floodplain permit application may include:

• Completed permit application form
• Site plan showing proposed development
• Elevation data and/or certificates (if applicable)
• Construction drawings and specifications
• Floodproofing details (if applicable)
• Engineering documentation (if required)
• Description of proposed work

Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of the project.

Floodplain Administration

The Township designates a Floodplain Administrator to review applications and ensure compliance with applicable regulations.

The Floodplain Administrator is responsible for:

• Reviewing permit applications
• Determining compliance with floodplain regulations
• Coordinating with State and Federal agencies when required
• Maintaining records of floodplain development

Development Standards

Development within floodplains must comply with strict requirements, including:

• Elevation or floodproofing of structures
• Protection of utilities and equipment
• Limitation of fill and grading
• Avoidance of increased flood risk to other properties
• Compliance with FEMA and State standards

Failure to comply with these standards may result in denial of the permit.

Substantial Improvement and Damage

Certain projects may be classified as substantial improvement or substantial damage, which are subject to additional requirements.

These determinations are based on:

• Cost of improvements relative to structure value
• Extent of damage or reconstruction

Additional compliance measures may be required in these cases.

Inspections

Floodplain-related work may require inspections to verify compliance.

Inspections may include:

• Elevation verification
• Construction compliance
• Final inspection

All required inspections must be completed prior to final approval.

FEMA Compliance

Floodplain regulations are required for the Township’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Compliance helps:

• Maintain eligibility for flood insurance
• Reduce flood risk
• Protect property values
• Ensure responsible development

Fees and Payments

Permit fees are established in accordance with the Township Fee Schedule.

Payments may be made:

• Online
• By check or money order

Cash is not accepted.

(Fees are subject to change. Please contact the Township to verify the most current fee schedule.)

Important Reminders

• A Floodplain Development Permit is required before any work begins
• This permit is required in addition to other permits
• All work must comply with Township, State, and Federal regulations
• Floodplain violations may result in enforcement action
• Unauthorized work may impact flood insurance eligibility

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my property is in a floodplain?
Floodplain status can be determined using FEMA flood maps or by contacting the Township.

Do I need a floodplain permit for minor work?
Yes, if the work occurs within a regulated floodplain area.

Is this the same as a building permit?
No. A floodplain permit is separate and required in addition to building permits.

What happens if I build without a floodplain permit?
You may be subject to enforcement action and may impact your eligibility for flood insurance.

Contact the Buildings Division

For questions regarding floodplain permits, please contact the Buildings Division.

Email: LI@UpperDarby.org

Phone: 610-734-7613

Residents may also submit inquiries or report concerns through the Township One Center.

To submit a concern, email One@UpperDarby.org or call the One Center Request Line at 610-734-7625.