Flood Map Updates Open for Public Comments Now
Published Date: 8/20/2025
Notice
Summary
FEMA is asking communities to review and comment on proposed changes to flood risk maps that show where floods might happen and how deep they could be. These updates could affect local flood rules and insurance costs, so it’s important for residents and officials to weigh in soon. The changes help keep communities safe and eligible for flood insurance programs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Communities must adopt measures to keep NFIP access
The preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Insurance Study reports are the basis for floodplain management measures communities must adopt or show they already have in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). If a community does not adopt or maintain these required measures, its participation in the NFIP could be affected, which can change residents' access to federal flood insurance.
Flood map changes can move risk zones
FEMA is proposing changes to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) that may add or change Base Flood Elevation (BFE), base flood depth, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or regulatory floodways. These map changes can change where flood rules apply and how deep floods are expected to be, which can affect local building rules and property requirements.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20497, Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review, Comment Request; Elevation Certificate/Floodproofing Certificate.
FEMA is asking for public feedback on extending the use of Elevation and Floodproofing Certificates, which help communities manage flood risks and keep buildings safe. This affects homeowners, builders, and local officials who deal with flood insurance and construction rules. Comments are open until November 6, 2026, and there’s no new cost—just a chance to keep these important forms working smoothly.
2026-20458, Agency Information Collection Activities: Submission for OMB Review, Comment Request; Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs
FEMA is updating the forms used for several Hazard Mitigation Grant Programs that help communities prepare for disasters. This affects anyone applying for grants like flood or dam safety projects. They want your feedback by November 5, 2026, to keep things running smoothly and make sure the paperwork isn’t too tricky.
2026-19854, Notice of Maximum Amount of Assistance Under the Individuals and Households Program
Starting October 1, 2025, FEMA is raising the maximum help you can get after a disaster to $44,800 for housing and $44,800 for other needs. This boost helps folks affected by emergencies or major disasters get more support, thanks to a 2.9% cost increase. If you’re dealing with disaster recovery, this means more money to rebuild and recover!
2026-19856, Notice of Award Amount Adjustment for Serious Needs Assistance
Starting October 1, 2025, FEMA is raising the Serious Needs Assistance award to $790 for people affected by emergencies or major disasters. This change helps cover more costs due to rising prices and applies to disasters declared on or after that date. If you qualify, expect a bit more help when disaster strikes!
2026-19898, Notice of Adjustment of Disaster Grant Amounts
Starting October 1, 2025, FEMA is raising the cutoff for Small Project disaster grants to $1,093,800. This means state, tribal, local governments, and nonprofits can get more money for smaller disaster repairs thanks to a 2.9% cost increase adjustment. If you’re involved in disaster recovery, this change helps you get the right funding faster and easier!
2026-19859, Notice of Adjustment of Minimum Project Worksheet Amount
FEMA is raising the minimum amount for disaster project approvals to $4,100 starting October 1, 2025. This change affects anyone applying for disaster aid after that date and reflects a 2.9% cost increase based on inflation. If you’re involved in disaster recovery, this means bigger projects need to meet the new minimum to get funding.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-15881, Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA is asking for your thoughts on new flood risk maps that could change flood zones and water levels in certain communities. These updates might affect flood insurance rules and costs, so if you live or own property in these areas, now’s the time to speak up. Don’t miss the chance to help shape the rules before they become final!
Next: 2025-15883, Final Flood Hazard Determinations
The government has updated flood risk maps for certain communities, changing flood levels and boundaries to keep everyone safer. If you live or own property in these areas, these changes could affect your flood insurance and building rules. These updates are final, so it’s time to check how they might impact your money and plans.