Flood Zones: Fort Lee vs Hackensack
How do flood zones rules compare between Fort Lee, NJ and Hackensack, NJ?
Fort Lee and Hackensack have similar restriction levels.
Fort Lee, NJ
Bergen County
Fort Lee participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces flood damage prevention rules in FEMA-mapped special flood hazard areas.
View full Fort Lee rules →Hackensack, NJ
Bergen County
Hackensack regulates development in flood hazard areas under Chapter 89 of the City Code, originally adopted December 6, 1982 and amended in its entirety on August 20, 2019. The chapter implements the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act (N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50 et seq. / N.J.A.C. 7:13), and Uniform Construction Code flood provisions for properties along the Hackensack River and adjacent areas.
View full Hackensack rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fort Lee | Hackensack |
|---|---|---|
| Program | NFIP participating community | - |
| Elevation | BFE plus NJ freeboard | - |
| Substantial Improvement | 50% rule applies | - |
| Certificates | Elevation cert required | - |
| Local Ordinance | - | Hackensack Code Ch. 89 (adopted 12/6/1982; amended 8/20/2019) |
| State Law | - | Flood Hazard Area Control Act, N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50 |
| State Rules | - | N.J.A.C. 7:13 (NJDEP) |
| Federal Program | - | NFIP / FEMA FIRMs |
| Cumulative Rise Limit | - | 0.2 ft above base flood (no designated floodway) |
| Anchoring | - | Required for all new construction and substantial improvements |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fort Lee FAQ
How do I know if my Fort Lee property is in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center using your address; Fort Lee's Floodplain Administrator can also confirm zone designations and applicable elevation requirements.
What is the substantial improvement rule?
If improvements or repairs equal or exceed 50% of the building's market value, the entire structure must meet current flood code, including elevation requirements.
Hackensack FAQ
How do I find out if my Hackensack property is in a flood zone?
Look up the address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to view the current FIRM panel. Chapter 89 of the Hackensack Code applies to any property within a Special Flood Hazard Area shown on those maps.
Do I need both a city and a state permit?
Often, yes. Local floodplain development permits are issued under Chapter 89, but development that affects regulated waters or flood hazard areas may also require a permit from NJDEP under the Flood Hazard Area Control Act and N.J.A.C. 7:13.
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