Because new buildings built in the floodplain are at risk of flood damage, elevating them is one of the most important requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). To ensure that a building is elevated above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), the Federal Code of Regulations requires that the lowest floor of a new or substantially improved structure located within a floodplain be surveyed and an elevation certificate be obtained and kept by the local permit office.

Since Sutter County is a participant in the Community Rating System (CRS), all new and substantially improved structures in Sutter County are required to use the current version of FEMA's Elevation Certificate Form. This form can be downloaded in electronic format or hard copies can be ordered from FEMA at the following website:

• National Flood Insurance Program Elevation Certificate and Instructions

The County also keeps elevation certificates on file for many structures in the floodplain. Contact Sutter County – Development Services at (530) 822-7400 for further information.

• Elevation Certificate List