November 17, 2022 3:50 a.m.

City of Roseburg officials are encouraging homeowners in or near flood zones to make sure they have sufficient flood insurance to protect their homes, as it is expected to be colder and wetter than usual over this fall and winter.

A release said homeowners whose property is located in a special flood hazard area are required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to buy flood insurance, which is not covered by most homeowner’s insurance policies.

Community Development Department Director Stuart Cowie said, “Ensuring those with structures inside the City limits and located in the floodplain adhere to FEMA floodplain development guidelines helps the City maintain a Community Service Rating through the National Flood Insurance Program”. Cowie said that in turn creates a lower floodplain premium for all those Roseburg residents who must buy flood insurance.

The release said fortunately, searching for floodplain information and documents is now easier after the Community Development Department posted a new, interactive Floodplain Information Map on the City’s website.

Cowie said property owners, homebuyers, realtors and insurance agents can use the map to find floodplain-related documents needed for flood insurance purposes or properties in or near flood zones.

For questions about development or residential/commercial improvements within the floodplain, contact the Roseburg Community Development Department at 492-6750.