Atlantic County, NJ Environmental Rules: Flood Zones (2026)

C. 25, which the County code identifies as including, but not limited to, an A Zone or V Zone as delineated by FEMA. Section 86-801(C) lays out three general policies. First, and most restrictive, new development in a flood hazard area is to be avoided, and encroachments are flatly prohibited unless a professional engineer or architect certifies that the encroachment will not increase the base flood elevation, putting the burden of proof on the applicant before the County will consider the encroachment. Second, all development must be consistent with minimizing flood damage while maintaining the natural and beneficial functions of the flood hazard area, meaning the County can weigh ecological function, not just structural safety, in reviewing a plan.

Third, every development must provide adequate drainage to reduce flood hazard exposure. Section 86-801(B) points applicants to County-maintained maps identifying flood hazard areas, County roadway depth below base flood elevation, and current, 2050 and 2100 coastal flooding exposure, all available on the County website, so an applicant can check exposure before design. Section 86-802 then layers enhanced submission requirements onto any land development application in a flood hazard area: the plan must note the flood zone, base flood elevation and FIRM panel number, identify lowest floor elevations on the FIRM datum, locate and describe protection for utilities and heating and electrical equipment, disclose any basement or below-grade enclosure with foundation-opening drawings, describe construction materials used below base flood elevation, and carry advisory notes on the final plat that the site may face additional floodplain management rules and will need an elevation certificate and flood insurance.