Memphis, TN Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Freeboard requirement
- 24 inches above base flood elevation
- Applies to
- New construction and substantial improvements
- No-BFE standard
- 3 feet above highest adjacent grade
- Governing provision
- UDC § 8.8.5.B, Specific Standards
- Certification required
- Registered surveyor, engineer or architect
- Penalty
- Up to $50 per day fine for violation
Summary
New residential construction and substantial improvements in a Memphis or Shelby County flood hazard area must have the lowest floor, including any basement, elevated at least 24 inches above the base flood elevation when BFE data exists. Where no BFE data is available, the floor must sit at least three feet above the highest adjacent grade.
Where base flood elevation data is available, new construction or substantial improvement of any residential building (or manufactured home) shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than 24 inches above the base flood elevation. Should solid foundation perimeter walls be used to elevate a structure, openings sufficient to facilitate equalization of flood hydrostatic forces on both sides of exterior walls and to ensure unimpeded movement of floodwater shall be provided in accordance with the standards of Sub-Section 8.8.4B.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
" That two-foot freeboard applies on top of the mapped BFE, and if solid perimeter walls are used to elevate the structure, the code requires flood-vent openings sized to equalize hydrostatic pressure on both sides of the walls. a, though owners may flood-proof rather than elevate if a registered engineer or architect certifies the design meets accepted watertight construction standards. 3. b: 24 inches above BFE where available, or three feet above the highest adjacent grade on reinforced piers where it is not. B before further work can proceed.
Violations & Fines
Sub-Section 8.8.3.H applies the same enforcement to freeboard violations as to any other breach of the Floodplain Overlay District chapter: a fine of not more than $50.00, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense. The Administrator can also withhold sign-off, since incomplete or deficient elevation certification under Sub-Section 8.8.4.B must be corrected before further work is allowed to proceed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high above base flood elevation must a Memphis home be built?
What if my lot has no established base flood elevation?
Does the 24-inch rule apply to commercial buildings too?
Who certifies the elevation once construction is done?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Memphis
Compare Memphis to another location·View the Tennessee environmental rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.