FEMA flood zone rules in Baltimore, MD — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Baltimore enforces FEMA floodplain management regulations under Article 7 of the City Code, requiring elevated construction and flood-resistant building standards in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs).
Baltimore participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and regulates development in Special Flood Hazard Areas as identified on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). New construction and substantial improvements in flood zones must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Structures must use flood-resistant materials below the BFE. Floodway encroachments that would increase flood levels are prohibited. The Department of Housing and Community Development reviews floodplain development permits. Flood zone designations include Zone AE (along Jones Falls, Gwynns Falls, and harbor areas) and Zone VE (coastal high hazard along harbor).
Building without a floodplain development permit or failing to meet elevation requirements can result in fines, denial of flood insurance, increased insurance premiums, and orders to bring structures into compliance at the owner's expense.
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See how Baltimore's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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