Minnesota Statewide Rule

Minnesota Floodplain Management Act Statewide Standards

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Minnesota (2026)

Key Facts

State agency: MN DNR Floodplain Program
Statute: Minn. Stat. 103F.101-.155
Elevation standard: 1 ft above BFE
Federal program: NFIP coordinated

Last verified: August 21, 2026Source: Minnesota Revisor of Statutes

Summary

Minnesota Statutes sections 103F.101 to 103F.155 require all communities with mapped flood hazard areas to adopt DNR-approved floodplain ordinances meeting state and FEMA NFIP minimums, governing development, fill, and structure elevation.

Subdivision 1.Adoption. (a) In accordance with sections 103F.101 to 103F.151, the rules of the commissioner and applicable laws authorizing local governmental units to adopt floodplain management ordinances, local governmental units shall adopt, administer, and enforce floodplain management ordinances, which must include: (1) the delineation of floodplains and floodways; (2) the preservation of the capacity of the floodplain to carry and discharge regional floods; (3) the minimization of flood hazards; and (4) the regulation of the use of land in the floodplain.

Source: Minnesota Revisor of StatutesView official code

Full Breakdown

Under the Floodplain Management Act, the Department of Natural Resources designates flood-prone areas and certifies local ordinances. Communities with identified flood hazards must adopt ordinances regulating placement, elevation (typically one foot above base flood elevation), and floodproofing of structures, prohibit obstructions in the floodway, and require permits for fill and substantial improvements. DNR review is required before adoption or amendment of floodplain ordinances. Failure to adopt or enforce results in NFIP suspension, eliminating federal flood insurance availability. Local rules may be stricter but cannot fall below the state model ordinance baseline.

Violations & Penalties

Building in a regulated floodway, unpermitted fill, or non-elevated structures can trigger DNR enforcement, removal orders, and loss of NFIP coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who approves floodplain ordinances in Minnesota?

The Department of Natural Resources reviews and certifies local floodplain ordinances under Minn. Stat. 103F. Local amendments must be submitted to DNR before adoption to remain compliant with state and NFIP standards.

How high must structures be built in a Minnesota flood zone?

The lowest floor of structures in flood hazard areas must generally be elevated at least one foot above the base flood elevation, with stricter local freeboard allowed. Floodway encroachments are prohibited.

Sources

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