Flood Zones: Cambridge vs Wakefield
How do flood zones rules compare between Cambridge, MA and Wakefield, MA?
Cambridge and Wakefield 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 →Wakefield, 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 Wakefield rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Cambridge | Wakefield |
|---|---|---|
| Program | NFIP participant | NFIP |
| Main flood areas | Charles, Alewife | - |
| Elevation | Above BFE plus freeboard | Lowest floor at BFE |
| Insurance | Required for SFHA mortgages | - |
| Future risk | Climate Vuln Assessment | - |
| Maps | - | FEMA FIRM |
| Code | - | 780 CMR App G |
| Cert needed | - | Elevation Certificate |
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.
Wakefield 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.
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