Approximately 1,133 properties in Kirkwood, MO, face flood risks over the next 30 years, representing roughly 10.6% of all local properties. Key high-risk areas include the Lower Meramec Basin and areas near Sugar Creek, where heavy rainfall can cause significant runoff and flash flooding.
Key Flood Risk Details for Kirkwood:
- Property Risk: 10.6% of total properties are at risk of flooding.
- Flood Zone: Much of the area is considered lower risk, but certain zones are identified as needing consideration for flood insurance.
- Regional Context: Kirkwood is part of St. Louis County, where approximately 11.5% of properties have a risk of flooding, a number expected to rise slightly over the next 30 years.
When Do I Need a Floodplain Development Permit?
If your property is located within a mapped floodplain or floodway, a Floodplain Development Permit may be required before work begins.
The City of Kirkwood requires permits for most development activities within regulated flood hazard areas — even when a building permit is not required.
Projects that commonly require a Floodplain Development Permit include:
- New construction
- Home additions or remodels
- Grading or excavation
- Placement of fill dirt
- Driveways or parking areas
- Fences or retaining walls
- Demolition and reconstruction
- Utility work
- Roofing or exterior repairs
- Floodproofing improvements
Elevation Requirements
New construction and substantial improvements must meet FEMA elevation requirements and local floodplain regulations.
The City strongly recommends building above the minimum required elevation to help reduce future flood risk and flood insurance costs.
How Do I Know if My Property Is in a Floodplain?
You can determine whether your property is located within a regulated floodplain by:
- Reviewing FEMA flood maps
- Contacting the City of Kirkwood Building Department
- Providing your property address for assistance
City staff can help identify whether floodplain regulations apply to your project.
How Do I Apply?
To apply for a Floodplain Development Permit, submit:
- A completed permit application
- Site plans or construction drawings
- Elevation information, if required
- Any applicable engineering certifications or outside agency permits
Additional documentation may be required depending on the scope of the project.
What Do I Need to Submit?
To apply for a Floodplain Development Permit, you will need to provide information about your project and property.
Most applications include:
- A completed permit application
- Site plans or construction drawings
- Grading or fill plans, if applicable
- Elevation information prepared by a Missouri licensed surveyor or engineer
- Floodplain or floodway information for the property
- Elevations for structures, crawl spaces, garages, and mechanical equipment
- Estimated market value of the structure, when applicable
For new construction or elevated structures, a final Elevation Certificate will also be required during construction.
Additional Information May Be Required
Some projects may require additional documentation, including:
- No-Rise Certification
- Wetlands information
- State or Federal permits
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers approvals
Requirements vary depending on the type and location of the project.
Updated: May 11, 2026
