Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
Published Date: 1/29/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.
Map Changes Could Alter Your Flood Rules
FEMA published Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) that may add or change Base Flood Elevations (BFE), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or regulatory floodways. If you live or own property in Chautauqua County, New York (Project 21-02-0002S; Preliminary Date: May 14, 2025), these map changes might affect your flood insurance costs and local building rules.
Map Changes Could Alter Your Flood Rules (VA)
FEMA published Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) that may add or change Base Flood Elevations (BFE), base flood depths, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, or regulatory floodways. If you live or own property in Patrick County, Virginia (Project 24-03-0010S; Preliminary Date: July 02, 2025), these map changes might affect your flood insurance costs and local building rules.
Community Rules Needed to Keep NFIP Participation
The Preliminary FIRM and Flood Insurance Study reports are the basis of the floodplain management measures a community must adopt or show evidence of having in effect in order to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Communities listed in the notice must respond to the preliminary maps to meet these requirements.
How to Challenge the New Maps and Timeline
You may submit comments on the Preliminary FIRMs by April 29, 2026. Any request for reconsideration that satisfies the data requirements of 44 CFR 67.6(b) is considered an appeal. If FEMA and local communities are unable to resolve an appeal after at least 60 days of collaborative consultation, communities may request use of a Scientific Resolution Panel (SRP) to review conflicting technical data.
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Key Dates
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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.