FEMA redraws flood zones: Is your home swimming in new risks?
Published Date: 12/18/2025
Notice
Summary
FEMA has finalized updates to flood risk maps for certain communities, changing flood zones and water levels to better protect homes and businesses. These changes take effect on March 17, 2026, and could affect flood insurance costs and building rules. If you live or own property in these areas, it’s time to check the new maps and get ready!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Flood map changes may alter insurance costs
FEMA finalized new flood maps for listed communities (including Bridgeport, NE; City of Franklin and parts of Southampton County, VA; and Langlade County, WI) that take effect March 17, 2026. These map changes (for example, Base Flood Elevations, SFHA boundaries, and regulatory floodways) could change flood insurance costs for homes and businesses in those areas.
Communities must meet NFIP floodplain rules
The new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports are the basis for floodplain management measures that each listed community is required to adopt or show have effect so the community can qualify or remain qualified for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). This requirement applies to the communities named in the notice.
New maps available—owners should review
The final FIRMs and FIS reports for the listed communities will be available for inspection at local community map repositories and online via the FEMA Map Service Center by March 17, 2026, and interested property owners and lessees are encouraged to review the new maps and reports.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-23173, Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for certain communities, which could change flood zones and water levels used for insurance and safety rules. If you live or own property in these areas, these changes might affect your flood insurance costs and building rules. You’ve got until March 18, 2026, to check the new maps and share your thoughts before they become official.
Next: 2025-23175, Quarterly Rail Cost Adjustment Factor
The Surface Transportation Board just approved new cost numbers that show how much it costs railroads to run their trains. These numbers, called the Rail Cost Adjustment Factor, will take effect starting January 1, 2026, and help set fair prices for rail services. Big rail companies and anyone who uses their services will feel the impact as costs get updated every quarter.