Winston-Salem Floodplain & Wetland Ordinances

Land Use and Zoning North Carolina 3 Minutes Read · published February 10, 2026 Flag of North Carolina

Winston-Salem, North Carolina regulates development in floodplains and wetlands to reduce flood damage, protect water quality, and comply with state and federal requirements. This guide summarizes the city ordinances, enforcement pathways, common restrictions, and practical steps for property owners and developers in Winston-Salem.

Overview

The City of Winston-Salem implements floodplain and wetland restrictions through its unified development ordinances and permitting process. Regulations control building elevations, fill, encroachment, and activities that alter natural wetlands or stormwater flow. For the controlling legal text, consult the city ordinance and development regulations.[1]

Check local elevation and FEMA map designations before submitting plans.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled at the municipal level with inspections, stop-work orders, and civil remedies. Specific fine amounts and schedules are not specified on the cited ordinance page and must be confirmed with the city enforcement office.[1] Complaints and reports are accepted through the city's stormwater or code enforcement contact points.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; see the ordinance for civil penalties and the enforcing department.[1]
  • Escalation: the ordinance references escalating enforcement but specific first/repeat ranges are not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, orders to remove unauthorized fill or structures, restoration orders, and referral to court are authorized by city code.[1]
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: Planning and Inspections plus Stormwater Services receive complaints; submit complaints via the city contact page.[2]
  • Appeals and review: the ordinance provides appeal routes to the designated review board or administrative official; time limits for appeals are not specified on the cited page.[1]
If you receive a stop-work order act quickly to preserve appeal rights.

Applications & Forms

The city requires permits for development in regulated floodplain and wetland areas. The exact permit name, form number, filing fee, and submission method are not specified on the cited ordinance page and should be requested from Development Services or the Planning Department.[1]

  • Typical form: Floodplain Development Permit (name used by many municipalities) — specific form and fee: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Deadlines: permit review timelines and appeal deadlines are set by city procedures and not specified on the cited ordinance page.[1]

Common Restrictions and Practical Rules

  • Building elevation: structures in mapped flood zones typically must meet minimum elevation requirements.
  • Fill and grading: adding fill in wetlands or floodplain areas is restricted and often requires mitigation or compensatory storage.
  • Wetland modification: draining, filling, or altering wetlands may require permits and coordination with state or federal agencies in addition to city approvals.
  • Stormwater controls: new development must meet stormwater management and erosion-control standards to protect downstream properties.
Document existing site conditions with photos and survey before work begins.

Action Steps

  • Confirm FEMA map designation and local floodplain map status.
  • Contact Development Services or Stormwater Services early to identify required permits and pre-application reviews.[2]
  • Apply for floodplain development and wetland permits with required plans and elevations.
  • If cited, follow orders promptly and use appeal channels within the time limits specified by the city.

FAQ

What is a floodplain development permit?
A permit required for construction or alterations within regulated floodplain areas to ensure compliance with elevation, anchoring, and drainage rules.
Do I need a permit to place fill on my property?
Yes in regulated floodplain or wetland areas; unauthorized fill can trigger enforcement and restoration orders.
Who enforces wetland and floodplain rules in Winston-Salem?
City Planning, Development Services, Inspections, and Stormwater Services oversee enforcement and investigations.

How-To

  1. Check FEMA flood maps and the city floodplain layers to determine if your property is in a regulated area.
  2. Contact the City of Winston-Salem Development Services or Stormwater Services for pre-application guidance.
  3. Prepare site plans, elevation certificates, and any required environmental assessments.
  4. Submit permit applications, pay required fees, and respond to plan-review comments.
  5. If you receive an enforcement notice, review the notice, correct violations or file an appeal within the time allowed.

Key Takeaways

  • Early contact with city staff reduces delays and costly rework.
  • Permits and mitigation are commonly required for fill, grading, or building in floodplains and wetlands.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Winston-Salem Unified Development Ordinance
  2. [2] City of Winston-Salem Stormwater Services - Contact and Complaint

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