Flood Zones: Webster vs Worcester
How do flood zones rules compare between Webster, MA and Worcester, MA?
Webster has fewer restrictions than Worcester.
Webster, MA
Worcester County
Worcester County has significant flood hazard areas along the Blackstone River and its tributaries. FEMA released preliminary Blackstone River Watershed flood map updates on November 26, 2024 — the first major update since 2011 — with new maps expected to take effect in summer 2028. Flood insurance is required for federally backed mortgages in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA, Zone AE). No county floodplain ordinance; each city/town administers its own FEMA-compliant floodplain management program.
View full Webster rules →Worcester, MA
Worcester County
Worcester participates in the NFIP and has significant flood zones along the Blackstone River watershed. FEMA released updated preliminary flood maps in November 2024. Floodplain development permits are required for construction in flood hazard areas.
View full Worcester rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Webster | Worcester |
|---|---|---|
| Key Watershed | Blackstone River and tributaries | - |
| FEMA Update | Preliminary maps released Nov. 26, 2024 | - |
| New Maps Effective | Expected summer 2028 | - |
| County Code | None — county abolished 1998 | - |
| Watershed | - | Blackstone River |
| NFIP | - | City participates |
| Map Update | - | November 2024 prelim |
| Permit | - | Floodplain development |
| Elevation | - | Above BFE required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Webster FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Worcester County?
Worcester County has significant flood hazard areas along the Blackstone River and its tributaries. FEMA released preliminary Blackstone River Watershed flood map updates on November 26, 2024 — the first major update since 2011 — with new maps expected to take effect in summer 2028. Flood...
Do I need flood insurance in Worcester County?
Key Watershed: Blackstone River and tributaries. FEMA Update: Preliminary maps released Nov. 26, 2024. New Maps Effective: Expected summer 2028. County Code: None — county abolished 1998.
Worcester FAQ
Is my property in a flood zone in Worcester?
Check the city's flood zones map or FEMA's Flood Map Service Center. FEMA released updated preliminary maps in November 2024 for the Blackstone River watershed.
Do I need a special permit to build in a flood zone in Worcester?
Yes. A floodplain development permit is required for any construction or development in a mapped Special Flood Hazard Area.
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