Flood Zones: Somerset vs Taunton
How do flood zones rules compare between Somerset, MA and Taunton, MA?
Somerset and Taunton have similar restriction levels.
Somerset, MA
Bristol County
Bristol County has significant FEMA-designated flood zones along the Taunton River, Buzzards Bay coast, and Mount Hope Bay. New Bedford is protected by the Hurricane Protection Barrier (constructed 1962-1966). All participating communities must enforce floodplain overlay districts as part of the National Flood Insurance Program.
View full Somerset rules →Taunton, MA
Bristol County
Taunton has FEMA-designated special flood hazard areas, particularly along the Taunton River and Mill River corridors. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain regulations through its zoning ordinance. Development in flood zones must comply with FEMA and state requirements.
View full Taunton rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Somerset | Taunton |
|---|---|---|
| Major Flood Areas | Taunton River, Buzzards Bay, Mount Hope Bay | - |
| Hurricane Barrier | New Bedford — protects 1,400 acres | - |
| NFIP | All communities participate | City participates |
| Floodplain Overlay | Required in all SFHA communities | - |
| Flood Areas | - | Taunton River and Mill River corridors |
| Zoning | - | Floodplain overlay district provisions |
| Building Code | - | Flood-resistant construction required in SFHA |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Somerset FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Bristol County?
Bristol County has significant FEMA-designated flood zones along the Taunton River, Buzzards Bay coast, and Mount Hope Bay. New Bedford is protected by the Hurricane Protection Barrier (constructed 1962-1966). All participating communities must enforce floodplain overlay districts as part of the...
Do I need flood insurance in Bristol County?
Major Flood Areas: Taunton River, Buzzards Bay, Mount Hope Bay. Hurricane Barrier: New Bedford — protects 1,400 acres. NFIP: All communities participate. Floodplain Overlay: Required in all SFHA communities.
Taunton FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Taunton?
Taunton has FEMA-designated special flood hazard areas, particularly along the Taunton River and Mill River corridors. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain regulations through its zoning ordinance. Development in flood zones must comply with FEMA...
Do I need flood insurance in Taunton?
Flood Areas: Taunton River and Mill River corridors. NFIP: City participates. Zoning: Floodplain overlay district provisions. Building Code: Flood-resistant construction required in SFHA.
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