Flood Zones: Duluth vs Suwanee
How do flood zones rules compare between Duluth, GA and Suwanee, GA?
Duluth has fewer restrictions than Suwanee.
Duluth, GA
Gwinnett County
Duluth participates in NFIP; floodplain management per Chapter 38 of City Code. FEMA flood maps identify SFHAs along Chattahoochee tributaries (Suwanee Creek, Western Branch). Development in floodways restricted.
View full Duluth rules →Suwanee, GA
Gwinnett County
Suwanee enforces FEMA flood zones per Code of Ordinances Chapter 38 (Flood Damage Prevention). City participates in NFIP. Development in SFHA requires floodplain permit, elevation certificate, and finished floor 3 feet above BFE (freeboard).
View full Suwanee rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Duluth | Suwanee |
|---|---|---|
| NFIP | Participating community | CID 130322 |
| Freeboard | BFE + 2 feet required | 3 ft above BFE |
| Code | Duluth Code Ch. 38 | Ch. 38 Flood Damage |
| Maps | Gwinnett County GIS / FEMA | FEMA FIRM Gwinnett |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Duluth FAQ
Does Duluth have major flood zones?
Limited SFHAs along Chattahoochee tributaries like Suwanee Creek. The Chattahoochee River itself is outside city limits. Check Gwinnett County GIS for your parcel.
How high must my new Duluth home be above the flood elevation?
Lowest floor elevation must be at or above Base Flood Elevation plus 2 feet of freeboard under Chapter 38.
What triggers full floodplain compliance on a remodel?
The substantial improvement rule — any remodel with a cost of 50% or more of market value triggers full code compliance.
Suwanee FAQ
Is Suwanee in a flood zone?
Portions along Suwanee Creek, Level Creek, and tributaries are in FEMA Zone AE. Check FEMA Map Service Center by address.
How much freeboard does Suwanee require?
3 feet above Base Flood Elevation per Chapter 38 — stricter than FEMA's 1-foot minimum.
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