SCOTT FLOOD PLAIN WORK NEEDS PERMIT

BENTON -- Building in the flood plain requires a permit and elevation certificate be filed with the Scott County Assessor.

Although the permits aren't new, many homeowners or builders are unaware of the regulation, said Chuck Bollinger, flood plain coordinator and mapper with the Scott County assessor's office.

Without a permit, building a non-agricultural structure or renovating an existing one could jeopardize the chance of receiving federal funds or insurance, officials say.

If homeowners and builders don't comply to the ordinance, it can cause problems later, he said, adding that it's just best to check the restrictions before building.

"It's pretty technical and in-depth," Bollinger said, adding that it is better to check rather than find out later.

Flood plain maps of Scott County are available in the mapping department of the assessor's office in the Scott County Courthouse in Benton.

There is no charge for the permits. Applications can be made with Bollinger. He can be contacted at 545-3535 or 471-9447, extension 143.

Most homeowner insurance policies don't cover flooding, so a federally implemented program -- the National Flood Insurance Program -- was designed to help with flood losses.

Because most land in Scott County is located in the flood plain, flood damage insurance is often essential, Bollinger said.

The county assessor is only responsible for building permits outside city limits. Building within city limits must be coordinated with a city clerk.