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🌍 Environmental Rules/Flood Zones

Bergenfield vs Hackensack

How do flood zones rules compare between Bergenfield, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?

Bergenfield and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.

Bergenfield, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Bergenfield regulates construction in special flood hazard areas through Chapter 161, requiring elevation of new and substantially improved structures above the base flood elevation plus one foot.

View full Bergenfield rules →

Hackensack, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Bergen County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program through its municipalities. Flood hazard areas are regulated by NJDEP under the Flood Hazard Area Control Act, with stricter freeboard requirements after 2024 amendments.

View full Hackensack rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactBergenfieldHackensack
Code ChapterChapter 161-
FIRM Panels34003C0184H, 0192H, 0211H-
FreeboardBase flood elevation plus 1 footTwo feet above DFE
AdoptedMay 17, 1988-
Statute-N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50
Rule-N.J.A.C. 7:13
Major basins-Passaic, Hackensack, Saddle

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Bergenfield FAQ

How high must my Bergenfield home be elevated in a flood zone?

New and substantially improved residential structures in A or AE zones must have their lowest floor, including basement, at or above the base flood elevation plus one foot of freeboard.

How do I know if my property is in a flood zone?

Check FIRM panels 34003C0184H, 0192H, or 0211H referenced in Bergenfield's Chapter 161, or contact the borough construction official for a flood zone determination before building.

Hackensack FAQ

What is the new freeboard requirement in Bergen County?

Under the 2024 Inland Flood Protection Rule, structures in flood hazard areas must be elevated at least two feet above the design flood elevation, using climate-adjusted maps.

Do I need a state flood permit for residential work?

Possibly. NJDEP requires Flood Hazard Area Permits for construction, fill, or vegetation removal within regulated flood hazard or riparian zones. Check with NJDEP Land Use.

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