My house has never flooded. Why is my property shown in a high-risk flood zone?

Flood zones are determined by risk, not by history. Because of the sporadic occurrence of flood events, it is not possible to base the delineation of flood zones on the lack of flooding occurrences in a particular location or flooding occurrences in recent memory. FEMA's engineering studies develop a long-term projection of flood risk. FEMA estimates that structures in designated SFHAs have a one-in-four chance of incurring flood damage during the term of a 30-year mortgage.

Show All Answers

1. How can I view the New Flood Maps/What FEMA flood zone is my property in?
2. How will I know if I am in the floodplain from the maps?
3. Where else can I go to see Flood Maps?
4. Who can assist with other questions?
5. My house has never flooded. Why is my property shown in a high-risk flood zone?
6. What is a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)?
7. How are the maps updated?
8. What is the process when FEMA changes a FIRM?
9. When will the new maps become effective?
10. How will the new flood hazard maps affect me?
11. Can the City provide a letter indicating the floodplain status of my property?
12. What can a property owner do if they believe they are incorrectly determined to be in a flood zone?
13. Does elevating a structure on posts or pilings remove a building from the SFHA?
14. Who should get flood insurance?
15. How is flood insurance purchased? Who can answer insurance questions?
16. Is the purchase of flood insurance mandatory?