Atlanta, GA Hurricane Preparedness: Flood Elevation (2026)
Key Facts
- New home setback
- 15 ft horizontal + 2 ft vertical
- Elevated lowest floor
- 3 ft above base flood elevation
- Permit authority
- Dept. of Watershed Management commissioner
- Flood maps adopted
- FEMA FIRM revised June 22, 1998
- Proof required
- Recorded elevation certificate before occupancy
Summary
New homes in Atlanta's floodplain must sit at least 15 feet horizontally and 2 feet vertically above the base flood elevation, or elevated structures must clear 3 feet above base flood elevation, under the city's floodplain ordinance.
A new single-family residential structure to be located on property encumbered by a traditional floodplain, floodway, or special flood hazard area shall be located not less than 15 feet horizontally and two feet vertically beyond the nearest base flood elevation. If a new single-family residential structure cannot comply with the 15-foot horizontal requirement, development is prohibited.
Full Breakdown
Atlanta's floodplain ordinance requires the Department of Watershed Management commissioner to approve a permit before any construction in a mapped or unmapped floodplain. New single-family homes must sit at least 15 feet horizontally and two feet vertically beyond the base flood elevation; if that setback isn't possible, the home may instead be elevated so its lowest floor clears three feet above the base flood elevation or two feet above the highest observed flood, whichever is greater, per §§ 74-205.1 and 74-205.5. A recorded elevation certificate from a licensed surveyor is required before occupancy.
Violations & Fines
Building without the required 15-foot/2-foot clearance triggers stop-work orders from the commissioner of city planning, permit suspension or revocation, and withheld certificates of occupancy under § 74-207.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far above the base flood elevation must a new Atlanta home be built?
Can an existing home stay in place instead of relocating?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Atlanta
Compare Atlanta to another location·View the Georgia hurricane preparedness overview
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