FEMA flood zone rules in Lexington, KY — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Lexington-Fayette County regulates floodplain development through Article 19 of the Zoning Ordinance, adopting FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps. Properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above the base flood elevation. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and the Community Rating System, providing flood insurance discounts to residents.
Lexington participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain management regulations. Properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (100-year floodplain) must meet minimum construction standards. New buildings must be elevated above base flood elevation. Substantial improvements to existing structures trigger elevation requirements. Flood insurance required for federally-backed mortgages in SFHA zones. Fill and grading in floodways prohibited. Lexington may maintain higher standards than FEMA minimums. Flood zone maps available through FEMA Map Service Center and local planning department.
Construction below flood elevation: retroactive compliance required, fines $500 to $5,000. Floodway encroachment: removal order. Failure to maintain flood insurance: lender force-placement at higher cost.
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See how Lexington's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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