Okay, I was in denial about the permits I would need to work on that cabin elevation. I was waiting for the surveyor, but not hearing from him, so found a special permit application online that would cover the demolition. I emailed it this morning, and the building department said 'fine, write us a check for $43.' I was ready to do that, but they emailed that they decided it sort of has to do with the flood, so they will waive that fee, and since the contractor isn't licensed in the county I can sign an affidavit that I am responsible.

The surveyor was telling me that the county floodplain people were going to require me to have hydrological studies of the river and require a topo map in addition to a bunch of other stuff to do with the new foundation.

I emailed the county people, and their response was that there are no special requirements because of where the structure is located, and they are happy I'm elevating it above flood level. I decided to find a different surveyor/engineer who isn't so hyper and misinformed, and am relieved that the county people are being supportive. Someone voluntarily elevating a cabin above flood level is their dream come true.