FEMA flood zone rules in New Bedford, MA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
New Bedford has FEMA-designated flood zones and is protected by the New Bedford Hurricane Protection Barrier, constructed 1962-1966 across New Bedford and Fairhaven Harbor. The barrier protects approximately 1,400 acres from tidal flooding. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (effective July 16, 2014) designate special flood hazard areas.
The New Bedford Hurricane Protection Barrier spans New Bedford and Fairhaven Harbor, protecting about 1,400 acres in New Bedford, Fairhaven, and Acushnet from hurricane and coastal storm tidal flooding. Built for $18.5 million (roughly $181 million today), it has prevented over $37.9 million in flood damages. The barrier gates close up to a dozen times yearly for storm events. FEMA FIRMs (effective July 16, 2014) designate flood zones. The city participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. Three hurricane evacuation zones (A, B, C) are designated.
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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