Flood Zones: Burlington vs Cambridge
How do flood zones rules compare between Burlington, MA and Cambridge, MA?
Burlington and Cambridge have similar restriction levels.
Burlington, 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 Burlington rules →Cambridge, MA
Middlesex County
Cambridge participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces a Flood Plain Overlay District covering FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas along the Charles River and Alewife Brook.
View full Cambridge rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Burlington | Cambridge |
|---|---|---|
| Maps | FEMA FIRM | - |
| Code | 780 CMR App G | - |
| Elevation | Lowest floor at BFE | Above BFE plus freeboard |
| Program | NFIP | NFIP participant |
| Cert needed | Elevation Certificate | - |
| Main flood areas | - | Charles, Alewife |
| Insurance | - | Required for SFHA mortgages |
| Future risk | - | Climate Vuln Assessment |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Burlington 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.
Cambridge FAQ
Is my Cambridge property in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Map Service Center and the Cambridge GIS portal using your address to see FEMA zone designation.
Do I need flood insurance?
Federally-backed mortgages in SFHAs require flood insurance; it is recommended even in moderate-risk areas.
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