Floodplain Development

Building in a floodplain in unincorporated Kaufman County requires a permit

Any work on land that FEMA maps show as a floodplain — including new buildings, additions, or fill placement — requires a county flood plain permit first.

Kaufman County Home & Property

In unincorporated parts of the county — areas outside city limits — you must get a flood plain permit before doing any work on land that FEMA has marked as a flood hazard area. This includes new buildings, additions, fill dirt, and other ground disturbance. You apply through the county's Development Services department and must include site plans and sometimes an elevation certificate.

The East Fork of the Trinity River and Cedar Creek both run through Kaufman County. Low-lying land near those streams can flood. Before buying rural land or planning to build, check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to see if your parcel is in a Special Flood Hazard Area. Call the county at 469-376-4100 with permit questions.

Source to confirm: Kaufman County — Floodplain Management

More Kaufman County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property tax in Kaufman County

The appraisal district sets your home's value; the tax assessor-collector sends the bill and takes payment.

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Homestead Exemption

File your homestead exemption with KCAD to lower your tax bill

Texas requires school districts to give homeowners a $140,000 exemption on their primary residence — but you must apply with the appraisal district to get it.

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Over-65 & Disability Exemption

Homeowners 65 and older get extra tax relief in Kaufman County

Once you turn 65, your school taxes can be frozen — meaning they cannot rise as long as you own and live in the home.

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Agricultural Special Appraisal

Farm and ranch land can be taxed on what it produces, not what it sells for

Texas law lets qualifying farm and ranch land be taxed on what it can produce, not what a developer would pay for it — which can cut your tax bill sharply.

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