More FEMA Flood Zone Updates Open for Comments
Published Date: 10/14/2026
Notice
Summary
FEMA is updating flood risk maps for certain communities, which could change flood zones and base flood levels. If you live or own property in these areas, these changes might affect your flood insurance and local rules. You have until January 12, 2027, to review and comment on these updates before they become final.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Flood map changes may affect insurance
FEMA proposes additions or changes to Base Flood Elevation (BFE), base flood depth, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) boundaries or zone designations, and regulatory floodways on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). If you live in the listed areas (for example, Jackson County, Kansas — Project: 22-07-0015S, Preliminary Date: May 29, 2026), these changes might affect your flood insurance and local floodplain rules.
Maps set required NFIP management rules
The proposed flood hazard determinations are the basis for floodplain management measures required by 44 CFR 60.3, and communities must adopt or show evidence of these measures to qualify or remain qualified for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). A community may also adopt stricter local requirements at any time.
You can submit comments by Jan 12, 2027
You have until January 12, 2027 to submit comments on the proposed flood hazard determinations. Submit comments identified by Docket No. FEMA-B-2637 to David N. Bascom (mail: FEMA, 400 C Street SW, Washington, DC 20472) or by email as provided in the notice.
Where to view preliminary flood maps
The Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) reports are available online at https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/prelimdownload and at the Community Map Repository addresses listed in the notice (for example, specific city halls and the Jackson County Courthouse). The current effective FIRM and FIS reports are available for comparison at https://msc.fema.gov.
Scientific Resolution Panel option after 60 days
If FEMA and a community have consulted for at least 60 days without resolving an appeal, the community may use a Scientific Resolution Panel (SRP) to review conflicting technical flood data. Information on the SRP process is available at https://www.floodsrp.org/pdfs/srp_overview.pdf.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20915, Final Flood Hazard Determinations
Starting January 22, 2027, new flood risk maps will take effect for certain communities, showing updated flood zones and water levels. Homeowners, businesses, and local governments in these areas will need to follow new rules to stay in the National Flood Insurance Program, which could affect insurance costs and building plans. These changes help keep everyone safer from floods and make sure insurance matches the real risks.
2026-20908, Changes in Flood Hazard Determinations
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2026-20926, 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 in these areas, your flood insurance and building rules might change, so check the new maps and share your thoughts by January 12, 2027. These updates help keep communities safe and insurance fair, so don’t miss the chance to weigh in!
2026-20913, 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 or own property in these areas, these changes might affect your insurance costs and building rules. You have until January 12, 2027, to review the new maps and share your thoughts before they become final.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-20913, 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 or own property in these areas, these changes might affect your insurance costs and building rules. You have until January 12, 2027, to review the new maps and share your thoughts before they become final.
Next: 2026-20915, Final Flood Hazard Determinations
Starting January 22, 2027, new flood risk maps will take effect for certain communities, showing updated flood zones and water levels. Homeowners, businesses, and local governments in these areas will need to follow new rules to stay in the National Flood Insurance Program, which could affect insurance costs and building plans. These changes help keep everyone safer from floods and make sure insurance matches the real risks.