FEMA flood zone rules in Anchorage, AK — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Anchorage participates in FEMA NFIP. Known flood areas include Turnagain along Cook Inlet, Ship Creek downtown, and Eagle River. Construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas requires elevation certificates.
The Municipality of Anchorage participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and administers AMC §21.07.070 Floodplain Management. Primary Special Flood Hazard Areas include Turnagain along Cook Inlet, Ship Creek north of downtown, lower Eagle River, and the Rabbit Creek mouth. New residential structures in SFHAs must have the lowest floor elevated to or above Base Flood Elevation plus 1 foot freeboard. Elevation certificates signed by a licensed surveyor are required at permitting and certificate of occupancy. The 2018 earthquake caused localized subsidence that has been incorporated in some revised FIRM panels.
Non-elevated construction: mandatory lift or loss of flood insurance; civil penalties up to 5,000 dollars.
Anchorage, AK
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Anchorage, AK
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Anchorage, AK
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Anchorage, AK
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Anchorage, AK
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Anchorage, AK
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See how Anchorage's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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