Ohio Revised Code Chapter 1521 designates the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Water Resources as the state coordinating agency for the National Flood Insurance Program, requiring local floodplain regulations meet federal minimum standards statewide.
ORC 1521.13 through 1521.18 require communities participating in the NFIP to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations consistent with 44 CFR Part 60. New construction and substantial improvements within Special Flood Hazard Areas must be elevated to or above the base flood elevation, residential structures cannot be floodproofed in lieu of elevation, and floodway encroachments are prohibited unless a no-rise certification is provided. ODNR provides technical assistance, model ordinances, and Community Assistance Visits. Local governments may adopt stricter standards but cannot fall below federal minimums without losing NFIP eligibility.
Communities that fail to enforce compliant floodplain ordinances risk suspension from the NFIP, eliminating federally backed flood insurance and disaster assistance. Property-level violations can lead to FEMA Section 1316 denial of flood insurance for noncompliant structures.
See how Liberty Township's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.