FEMA flood zone rules in Birmingham, AL — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Parts of Birmingham lie within FEMA-designated flood zones along Village Creek, Valley Creek, and other waterways. The zoning ordinance includes floodplain zone districts. Flood insurance is required in Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Birmingham participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. The zoning ordinance includes floodplain zone districts to regulate construction in flood-prone areas. FEMA flood zones exist along Village Creek, Valley Creek, Five Mile Creek, and other waterways. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas must carry flood insurance with federally backed mortgages. New construction must be elevated above the base flood elevation. Birmingham has experienced significant flooding, making floodplain management a priority.
Building in flood zones without proper permits and elevation certificates may result in permit denial and inability to obtain flood insurance.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Jefferson County.
See how other cities in Jefferson County handle flood zones.
See how Birmingham's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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