FEMA Updates Flood Maps in Multiple Areas
Published Date: 7/9/2026
Notice
Summary
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.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Flood Map Changes May Affect Insurance
FEMA proposes changes to Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for listed communities in Fannin, Towns, and Union Counties, Georgia (Project 19-04-0025S; Preliminary FIRM date: August 28, 2025). The changes may include Base Flood Elevation, base flood depth, Special Flood Hazard Area boundaries, zone designations, or regulatory floodway, and those map changes could change flood insurance requirements or costs for properties in those communities.
Communities Must Meet NFIP Floodplain Rules
The preliminary FIRMs and Flood Insurance Study reports are the basis of the floodplain management measures communities must adopt or show they have in effect to qualify or remain qualified for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) under 44 CFR 60.3. Affected communities may keep stricter local rules if they choose, but these proposed determinations are the minimum required for NFIP participation.
How to Review, Comment, and Appeal Maps
You can inspect the Preliminary FIRM and FIS reports online at https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload and compare them with current maps at https://msc.fema.gov. FEMA is accepting comments identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-2615 through October 7, 2026, and communities may request reconsideration under 44 CFR 67.6(b) or use a Scientific Resolution Panel after at least 60 days of consultation if appeals remain unresolved.
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.
2026-19855, Notice of Adjustment of Statewide per Capita Impact Indicator
FEMA just raised the statewide per person impact amount to $1.94 for disasters starting on or after October 1, 2025. This change helps make sure disaster aid keeps up with rising costs, thanks to a 2.9% bump in the Consumer Price Index. If you’re involved in disaster recovery, this means more accurate funding for your community’s needs.
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: 2026-13900, Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations
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!
Next: 2026-13902, Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposed Information Collection Request; Comment Request; EPA Program Information on Source Water Protection (Renewal)
The EPA wants to keep collecting info about protecting our drinking water sources and is asking for your thoughts before renewing this effort. This affects water agencies and communities who help keep water safe, with no big changes or costs expected. You’ve got until September 8, 2026, to share your comments and help shape the future of clean water protection!