Pearl, MS Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

Pearl is an NFIP-participating community, and Rankin County's Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) depicts Special Flood Hazard Areas through FEMA's Map Service Center (msc.fema.gov). The City's Official Development Ordinance, adopted July 2, 2024, contains the operative flood-elevation rule. Page 9 / preliminary plat requirements provide that if any portion of land being subdivided is below the 100-year flood profile, the limits of such floods must be shown on the plat, and "no fill shall be made, or any subdivision/development constructed which will increase flood hazards to other lands, or in any manner impede or restrict the flow of water in a flood situation." The 100-year flood elevation is to be obtained from the U.S. Geological Survey, U.S. Corps of Engineers, or HUD. Section on flood-prone lots states: "No building shall be undertaken on lots platted in areas that are subject to flooding unless the floor elevation of such building is at least eighteen inches (18") above the elevation of the 100-year flood level." The same 18-inch requirement is repeated for slab grades and finished building grades, and street grades must also be above the 100-year flood level. Utilities (water, sewer, gas, electrical) must be located, elevated, and constructed to eliminate or minimize flood damage. Top manhole elevations must be at least 18 inches above the 100-year flood elevation in flood-prone areas. These local rules implement the NFIP minimums in 44 C.F.R. Parts 59 and 60, and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Model Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Pearl was first identified for NFIP participation under FEMA's Mississippi Community Status Book (CIS), and the community is administered through the Office of Community Development at 2420 Old Brandon Road. Property owners can purchase flood insurance through any NFIP Write Your Own carrier or directly through FEMA's NFIP Direct.