General Announcements

Athens County “substantial damage” requirement for floodplain structures

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ATHENS COUNTY, Ohio – Communities throughout Athens County may have experienced damage to structures located within the mapped Special Flood Hazard Area following the storm event occurring throughout the evening of June 17 through the morning of June 18, 2026. 

Affected structures within the mapped Special Flood Hazard Area must be evaluated to determine the amount of damage that has occurred and if the structure has been “substantially damaged.” The Federal Emergency Management Agency, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, and the Athens County Flood Damage Reduction Regulations define “substantial damage” as any situation where the cost of restoring a structure to its pre-damaged condition equals or exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the structure’s pre-damage market value.

To ensure compliance with local flood damage reduction regulations, please contact your community’s floodplain administrator before beginning any repairs or construction to structures located within the mapped Special Flood Hazard Area. If you are unsure if your property is located within the mapped Special Flood Hazard Area, or if you are unsure what jurisdiction you are located in, please contact the Athens County Planning Office at 740-447-5890. 

Thank you for your cooperation and understanding regarding flood safety throughout Athens County.