FEMA Quietly Redraws Flood Lines in Multiple States
Published Date: 7/9/2026
Notice
Summary
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for several communities based on new science, changing flood zones, water levels, and boundaries. If you live or own property in these areas, your flood insurance rules and costs might change soon. You’ve got 90 days after local notice to ask for a review before the updates become final, so keep an eye out and act fast!
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Flood-map changes may alter insurance
If you live or own property in any community listed in this notice, changes to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) — including Base Flood Elevations, flood zones, and floodway boundaries — may change your flood insurance rules and costs. Revised maps and the current effective FIRM/FIS are available online at https://msc.fema.gov for comparison.
Communities must use revised FIRMs for NFIP rules
The revised FIRMs and, where applicable, portions of the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) are the basis of the floodplain management measures that a listed community is required to adopt or show in effect to qualify or remain in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The notice also states the current effective community number must be used for all new flood insurance policies and renewals.
90-day window to challenge map changes
After the second local newspaper notice, anyone in the affected community has 90 days to ask the community to request reconsideration of the flood hazard determinations from FEMA. Revised flood hazard information is available for inspection online at https://msc.fema.gov and at local community map repositories listed in the notice.
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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.
2026-19855, Notice of Adjustment of Statewide per Capita Impact Indicator
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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.
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!
2026-19856, 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!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-13899, Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA is updating flood maps for certain communities using new science to better show flood risks. If you live or own property in these areas, your flood insurance rules might change soon, so check the new maps and act fast! You’ve got 90 days after local notices to ask for a review, and these updates could affect your insurance costs and safety plans.
Next: 2026-13901, Proposed Flood Hazard Determinations
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for several communities, which could change flood zones and rules for flood insurance. If you live in these areas, your flood insurance costs or requirements might change, so check the new maps and share your thoughts by October 7, 2026. These updates help communities stay safe and keep their flood insurance programs running smoothly.