Georgia Floodplain Management and NFIP Participation

Under O.C.G.A. Title 12, Chapter 5, Article 2A (Flood Plain Management) and Title 8 building codes, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Floodplain Management Office coordinates the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Local governments that participate in NFIP must adopt ordinances meeting 44 CFR 60.3 standards, including base flood elevation requirements and substantial-improvement rules. Manufactured homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas must be elevated and anchored per state and federal standards. Non-participating jurisdictions risk loss of federal disaster aid and federally backed mortgages.

Building below base flood elevation in a participating community can result in higher flood insurance premiums, denial of permits, and required removal or elevation of noncompliant structures.