FEMA flood zone rules in Grand Rapids, MI — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Grand Rapids has a Floodplain Overlay District (OD-FP) in its zoning ordinance regulating development in FEMA-designated flood zones along the Grand River and its tributaries. Flood insurance is required for properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Grand Rapids participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and has designated a Floodplain Overlay District (OD-FP) in the zoning ordinance to regulate construction in flood-prone areas. The Grand River and its tributaries create significant flood zones through the city. Properties in FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas (Zone A and AE) must carry flood insurance if they have federally backed mortgages. New construction must be elevated above the base flood elevation. Substantial improvements to existing structures must also comply with floodplain regulations. The city's engineering department reviews all development in the floodplain overlay district.
Building in flood zones without proper permits and elevation certificates may result in permit denial, stop-work orders, and inability to obtain flood insurance.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Kent County.
See how other cities in Kent County handle flood zones.
See how Grand Rapids's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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