Flood Zones: Hackensack vs Teaneck
How do flood zones rules compare between Hackensack, NJ and Teaneck, NJ?
Hackensack and Teaneck have similar restriction levels.
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 →Teaneck, NJ
Bergen County
Teaneck participates in the National Flood Insurance Program; structures in mapped flood hazard areas must meet elevation, floodproofing, and permit requirements.
View full Teaneck rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Hackensack | Teaneck |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Program | - | NFIP participant |
| Freeboard | - | Required above BFE |
| Substantial improvement | - | 50% of value triggers |
| Elevation certificate | - | Required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Teaneck FAQ
How do I know if my Teaneck home is in a flood zone?
Check FEMA's Flood Map Service Center using your address, or contact the Teaneck building department for current effective Flood Insurance Rate Map information.
Can I finish my basement in a Teaneck flood zone?
Habitable basements below base flood elevation are heavily restricted. Mechanical equipment must be elevated or floodproofed; consult the floodplain administrator before improvements.
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