Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations
Published Date: 1/29/2026
Notice
Summary
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for certain communities using new science and data. These changes might affect flood insurance rules and costs, so residents and local leaders should check the updated maps and act fast—there’s a 90-day window to appeal. If you live in one of these areas, your flood insurance policy might change soon, so stay informed and ready!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Flood insurance rules and costs
If you live in one of the listed communities, revised flood maps (FIRMs and, where applicable, FIS reports) may change flood insurance rules and costs. The table shows the current effective community number that must be used for all new policies and renewals, and map revisions are finalized on the dates listed in the table (examples in the notice range from Jan. 22, 2026 through Apr. 13, 2026).
Revised maps drive local rules
The revised FIRMs and, where applicable, portions of the FIS reports serve as the basis for the floodplain management measures a community must adopt or show are in effect to qualify or remain qualified in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). These determinations are the minimum required under 44 CFR 60.3; communities may keep or adopt stricter rules.
90‑day appeal window to reconsider
From the date of the second publication of notification in a local newspaper, any person has 90 days to request that FEMA reconsider the flood hazard changes by submitting a request through the community to the Assistant Administrator, Federal Insurance Directorate. Appeals or requests for reconsideration must be submitted to the Chief Executive Officer listed in the table.
Where to inspect revised maps
Revised flood hazard information for each listed community is available for inspection online through the FEMA Map Service Center at https://msc.fema.gov and at the respective community map repository addresses shown in the table in the notice.
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: 2026-01744, Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA just updated flood risk maps for several communities, changing flood zones and water levels that affect flood insurance rules. If you live or own property in these areas, your flood insurance rates or requirements might change soon. These updates are final and already published, so check your local map or online to see how it impacts you and your wallet.
Next: 2026-01746, 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, these changes might affect your flood insurance costs and building rules. You’ve got until April 29, 2026, to check the new maps and share your thoughts before they become official.