FEMA flood zone rules in Milwaukee, WI — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Milwaukee participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and regulates floodplain development under Chapter 116 of the Code of Ordinances and Wisconsin NR 116. The city has significant flood risk along the Milwaukee, Menomonee, and Kinnickinnic Rivers. Construction in the 100-year floodplain is heavily restricted, and fill or structures that obstruct floodwater flow are prohibited in the floodway. MMSD maintains the Flood Management Program and has completed major flood mitigation projects including the deep tunnel system.
Milwaukee's floodplain overlay zone ordinance (Ch. 295 Sub. 11) meets FEMA NFIP requirements and Wisconsin DNR ch. NR 116 standards. New construction in floodplain must be landward of the ordinary high water mark. Floodplain variance applications require 30-day DNR review. Milwaukee River, Menomonee River, Kinnickinnic River, and other waterways define the flood risk areas. Development permit required from DNS.
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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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Milwaukee County.
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