Minneapolis, MN Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

Minneapolis adopted floodplain regulations in Chapter 551 of the zoning code to comply with FEMA NFIP and DNR state floodplain standards. The Floodplain Overlay District includes three zones: Floodway (no new structures), Flood Fringe (development allowed with elevation), and General Floodplain (requires hydraulic analysis). New residential construction in the Flood Fringe must have its lowest floor (including basement) elevated at least 2 feet above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) as shown on the FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map. Non-residential structures may be dry-floodproofed to the same elevation. Basements are prohibited in the floodplain unless floodproofed. Substantial improvements (over 50 percent of structure value) to existing structures trigger full compliance. A Floodplain Development Permit is required from CPED in addition to building permits. The Mississippi River corridor through Minneapolis is the primary floodplain, with significant floodplain also along Minnehaha Creek and portions of Bassett Creek. Federal flood insurance is required for mortgaged properties in Zones A and AE.