FEMA Asks Public Where They Think Water Goes Downhill
Published Date: 1/8/2025
Notice
Summary
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for several communities, which could change flood zones and rules for flood insurance. If you live or own property in these areas, these changes might affect your insurance costs and building rules. You have until April 8, 2025, to review and comment on these updates before they become official.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Flood map changes may alter insurance
If you own or live in property in the listed Nebraska or Texas communities, FEMA’s proposed updates to flood maps may change Base Flood Elevations (BFEs), Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries, zone designations, or regulatory floodways. These map changes could change flood insurance requirements and building rules for properties in the affected areas.
Communities must meet NFIP rules
The Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports are the basis for floodplain management measures communities must adopt or show they have in effect to qualify or remain qualified for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Communities listed must address these measures to maintain NFIP participation.
You can review maps and comment by April 8, 2025
You can inspect the Preliminary FIRMs and FIS reports online at https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload and compare them with current maps at https://msc.fema.gov. Comments on the proposed flood hazard determinations must be submitted by April 8, 2025 (Docket No. FEMA-B-2489).
Appeals and Scientific Resolution Panel option
If you or your community dispute the revised flood hazard information, you may request reconsideration as an appeal under 44 CFR 67.6(b). If FEMA and the community consult for at least 60 days without a mutually acceptable resolution, the community may use a Scientific Resolution Panel (SRP) to review conflicting technical data.
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-00245 — Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for several communities, which could change flood zones and insurance rules. If you live or own property in these areas, your flood insurance and building rules might be affected. You’ve got until April 8, 2025, to share your thoughts before the changes become official.
Next: 2025-00247 — Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations for Hartford County, Connecticut (All Jurisdictions)
FEMA has decided to cancel its earlier plans to update flood risk maps for all areas in Hartford County, Connecticut. This means no changes to flood zones or insurance rules will happen right now, so residents and businesses can keep their current flood insurance setup. The withdrawal took effect on January 8, 2025, and any new updates will come later if needed.