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🌍 Environmental Rules/Flood Zones

Hackensack vs Ridgewood

How do flood zones rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Ridgewood, NJ?

Hackensack and Ridgewood have similar restriction levels.

Hackensack, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Bergen County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program through its municipalities. Flood hazard areas are regulated by NJDEP under the Flood Hazard Area Control Act, with stricter freeboard requirements after 2024 amendments.

View full Hackensack rules →

Ridgewood, NJ

Bergen County

Heavy Restrictions

Ridgewood adopted Chapter 154 Floodplain Management Regulations by Ordinance 3865 in 2021, governing development inside designated flood hazard areas.

View full Ridgewood rules →

Key Facts Comparison

FactHackensackRidgewood
StatuteN.J.S.A. 58:16A-50-
RuleN.J.A.C. 7:13-
FreeboardTwo feet above DFE-
Major basinsPassaic, Hackensack, Saddle-
Code chapter-Chapter 154
Adopting ordinance-No. 3865 (2021)
CRS rating-Class 6
Administrator-Village Engineer

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Hackensack FAQ

What is the new freeboard requirement in Bergen County?

Under the 2024 Inland Flood Protection Rule, structures in flood hazard areas must be elevated at least two feet above the design flood elevation, using climate-adjusted maps.

Do I need a state flood permit for residential work?

Possibly. NJDEP requires Flood Hazard Area Permits for construction, fill, or vegetation removal within regulated flood hazard or riparian zones. Check with NJDEP Land Use.

Ridgewood FAQ

How do I find out if my Ridgewood property is in a flood zone?

FEMA flood maps and studies are on file at the Village Engineer's office at 131 North Maple Avenue, and staff can confirm zone status.

Does Ridgewood's CRS rating affect my flood insurance?

Yes. Ridgewood's Class 6 CRS rating provides a 20% discount on flood insurance premiums for properties in designated flood hazard areas.

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