FEMA flood zone rules in Pittsburgh, PA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Pittsburgh participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces floodplain development regulations for properties in FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas. The three rivers and numerous streams present significant flood risks. Structures in flood zones must be elevated above base flood elevation and a floodplain development permit is required.
Pittsburgh's floodplain is extensive along the three rivers and their tributaries. The PA DEP and PEMA administer floodplain management programs. FEMA has periodically updated Pittsburgh flood maps. Significant 2004 and subsequent events have driven NFIP claims. All new construction in SFHAs must be elevated to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) plus freeboard.
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 Allegheny County.
See how other cities in Allegheny County handle flood zones.
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