Flood Zones: Cambridge vs Newton
How do flood zones rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Newton, MA?
Cambridge and Newton have similar restriction levels.
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 →Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Newton participates in the NFIP with FEMA-mapped flood zones along the Charles River and Cheesecake Brook. Construction in AE zones requires lowest floor elevated 2 feet above base flood elevation.
View full Newton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Newton |
|---|---|---|
| Program | NFIP participant | FEMA NFIP |
| Main flood areas | Charles, Alewife | - |
| Elevation | Above BFE plus freeboard | - |
| Insurance | Required for SFHA mortgages | - |
| Future risk | Climate Vuln Assessment | - |
| FIRM Update | - | 2021 |
| Freeboard | - | 2 ft above BFE |
| Substantial Improvement | - | 50% value |
| Major Flood Area | - | Charles River |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Newton FAQ
How do I check if my property is in a flood zone?
Use the FEMA Flood Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov) or contact Newton ISD. Properties in AE zones require flood insurance if mortgaged and special elevation requirements for construction.
What is Newtons freeboard requirement?
Newton requires 2 feet of freeboard above the FEMA Base Flood Elevation for lowest floor of new construction, which exceeds the federal 1-foot minimum.
Compare other topics
See how Cambridge and Newton compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool