Flood Zones: Wakefield vs Waltham
How do flood zones rules compare between Wakefield, MA and Waltham, MA?
Wakefield and Waltham have similar restriction levels.
Wakefield, MA
Middlesex County
FEMA FIRMs govern flood zones. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas must meet the MA State Building Code 780 CMR and local floodplain bylaws.
View full Wakefield rules →Waltham, MA
Middlesex County
Waltham enforces FEMA floodplain regulations along the Charles River and its tributaries, requiring flood elevation certificates and floodproofing for development in A and AE zones.
View full Waltham rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Wakefield | Waltham |
|---|---|---|
| Maps | FEMA FIRM | - |
| Code | 780 CMR App G | - |
| Elevation | Lowest floor at BFE | - |
| Program | NFIP | - |
| Cert needed | Elevation Certificate | - |
| Main Floodplain | - | Charles River Zone AE |
| Freeboard | - | 1 foot above BFE |
| Substantial Improvement | - | 50 percent market value |
| Floodway Fill | - | Prohibited |
| FIRM Update | - | 2021 effective maps |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Wakefield FAQ
How do I check my flood zone?
Look up your address on the FEMA Flood Map Service Center or call your city or town engineer.
Is flood insurance required?
It is required for federally backed mortgages on properties in SFHAs.
Waltham FAQ
How do I know if my Waltham property is in a flood zone?
Check the FEMA Flood Map Service Center online by address, or contact the Waltham Conservation Commission for assistance reading the FIRM.
Do I need flood insurance in Waltham?
Federal law requires it for mortgaged properties in Zone AE. Even outside mapped zones, flood insurance is recommended near the Charles River or its tributaries.
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