Flood Zones: Arlington vs Ayer
How do flood zones rules compare between Arlington, MA and Ayer, MA?
Arlington and Ayer have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, MA
Middlesex County
FEMA FIRMs govern flood zones. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas must meet the MA State Building Code 780 CMR and local floodplain bylaws.
View full Arlington rules →Ayer, MA
Middlesex County
Ayer's Floodplain Overlay District in Article 8 of the Zoning Bylaw regulates all FEMA Zone A and AE special flood hazard areas shown on the Middlesex County FIRM panels dated June 4, 2010, with new construction and encroachments generally prohibited.
View full Ayer rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Ayer |
|---|---|---|
| Maps | FEMA FIRM | - |
| Code | 780 CMR App G | - |
| Elevation | Lowest floor at BFE | - |
| Program | NFIP | - |
| Cert needed | Elevation Certificate | - |
| Code Section | - | Zoning Bylaw Article 8 (FOD) |
| FEMA Zones | - | A and AE |
| FIRM Effective Date | - | June 4, 2010 |
| FIRM Panels | - | 25017C0203E-0217E (8 panels) |
| Standard | - | 780 CMR flood-resistant |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
How do I check my flood zone?
Look up your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or call your city or town engineer.
Is flood insurance required?
It is required for federally backed mortgages on properties in SFHAs.
Ayer FAQ
Is my Ayer property in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Map Service Center for Middlesex County FIRM panels effective June 4, 2010 to see if you are in Zone A or AE.
Can I build in Ayer's floodplain?
New construction in the Floodplain Overlay District is prohibited unless it meets 780 CMR flood-resistant standards and earns a special permit.
What FIRM panels cover Ayer?
Panels 25017C0203E, 0204E, 0208E, 0209E, 0211E, 0212E, 0216E, and 0217E, all dated June 4, 2010.
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