FEMA flood zone rules in Somerset, MA — also called floodplain regulations or special flood hazard area (SFHA) rules — determine flood insurance requirements and elevation standards for new construction.
Bristol County has significant FEMA-designated flood zones along the Taunton River, Buzzards Bay coast, and Mount Hope Bay. New Bedford is protected by the Hurricane Protection Barrier (constructed 1962-1966). All participating communities must enforce floodplain overlay districts as part of the National Flood Insurance Program.
Bristol County's flood risk areas include the Taunton River watershed, Buzzards Bay coastline, Mount Hope Bay, and numerous tributaries. New Bedford's Hurricane Protection Barrier protects approximately 1,400 acres. All NFIP-participating communities must adopt a Floodplain Overlay District encompassing FEMA Special Flood Hazard Areas. Development in flood zones must comply with FEMA and state requirements. The county includes three hurricane evacuation zones in coastal areas.
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 Bristol County.
See how other cities in Bristol County handle flood zones.
See how Somerset's flood zones rules stack up against other locations.
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