There are several programs available from the federal, state and the parish governments to help people recover from flood damage. The information on this page is intended to give some information on the funding, which properties are eligible for which programs, and some forms that the Parish will use for upcoming applications for funding. Properties that are substantially damaged are required by the Parish floodplain ordinance to elevate, relocate or demolish the property within three years of being determined to be substantially damaged. These programs help pay for homes and businesses to avoid future flood damage. There are no programs at this time to assist with elevations or other mitigation methods for homes that have not had flood damage to the living area of the home.

Visit Floodproofing Your Home or Business for more information.

REPETITIVE LOSS PROPERTY IS PROPERTY FOR WHICH THE NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM HAS PAID TWO OR MORE FLOOD CLAIMS OF AT LEAST $1,000.00 WITHIN ANY 10-YEAR PERIOD SINCE 1978.

Flooding can occur during any time of the year. Because the land in Terrebonne Parish is low, much of the property is in a special flood hazard area as determined by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The principal source of floodwaters in Terrebonne Parish is rain, but in late summer, hurricanes and associated tidal surges also pose a serious threat. Floodwater collects because Terrebonne Parish lies at, or below sea level. The low, flat ground provides little gravity drainage, so water that falls must be pumped out. When the ground is saturated and a heavy rain falls quickly, the system can be overwhelmed and flooding can result.

Keep alert to rapidly changing weather in order to prepare for the possibility of floods. A FLOOD WATCH or a FLASH FLOOD WATCH means flooding or flash flooding is possible. A flash flood means a flood that can happen very quickly is possible. A FLOOD WARNING or FLASH FLOOD WARNING means a flood or flash flood is occurring or will occur soon. These warnings are issued by the National Weather Service and are broadcast on local television and radio stations. Learn the safest route from your home or business to higher, safe ground, and stay tuned to reports of changing flood conditions. If emergency officials tell you to evacuate or leave your home, go immediately to a safe place. If there is time, turn off utilities at the main switch. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area. Every source of electricity can be dangerous during and after flooding. If your car stalls in a flooded area, abandon it as soon as possible. Never swim or play in or near floodwater. Be sure to tell your children that fast moving water in drainage ditches and canals are extremely dangerous. Floods are deceptive so it is best to avoid flooded areas.

In an emergency, move or raise furniture and other valuables.   Sand bags are available from the Parish Drainage Department (873-6717).   There are several alternatives for flood protection but permanent flood proofing measures such as elevation of structures, flood proofing and retrofitting are preferable to temporary measures.   Retrofitting methods include elevating the structure, building floodwalls and closures and protecting utilities.   The Terrebonne Parish Library has publications that explain different techniques.   The Terrebonne Parish Consolidated Government Department of Planning and Zoning will review Flood Insurance Rate Maps to determine if a property is in a flood zone and can provide information on flood proofing regulations, systems and techniques, applicable building codes and permit and zoning requirements.   Information is also available on the Federal Emergency Management Agency website at www.fema.gov/hazard/flood/info.shtm.

The Parish Code Section 22-187, Obstruction of Drainage Arteries, prohibits the dumping of debris in waterways. Debris retards the water carrying capability of a channel. It can cause flooding or increase damages during a flood event. Please contact the Department of Public Works at 873-6717 whenever you see debris or someone dumping into a channel.

Federal disaster assistance is often a loan repayable in full and is only available if the President declares a disaster. More than 90% of all disasters are not presidentially declared. Flood insurance pays even if no disaster is declared. FLOOD DAMAGE IS NOT COVERED BY HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE. You can protect yourself from losses to your home, business and belongings with flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). For example, homes can be insured for up to $250,000 and $100,000 for contents. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage goes into effect so don't wait to purchase flood insurance. Your insurance company or agent can tell you more about flood insurance.

Terrebonne's vast wetlands provide the first defense against storm surge associated with hurricanes and other offshore storms. Storm surge and high tide velocities and peak flows are diminished over these open areas. Wetlands store flood waters conveyed by natural and manmade waterways away from populated areas. These same wetlands provide recreational and commercial fishing and hunting opportunities. Many of our region's important commercial fish species live all or part of their lives in the wetlands. Preservation of these areas supports efforts to protect lives and property from flood occurrence and supports the wildlife resources from which many draw a livelihood and others enjoy recreational opportunities.

Contact Department of Planning & Zoning (below) for:

• More information on any of the above
• Copies of the elevation certificates
• Floodplain permit requirements
• To report illegal floodplain development

DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING & ZONING
8026 MAIN STREET, SUITE 401 HOUMA, LA - (985) 873-6567