New Jersey FEMA Flood Zone Rules (2026)

Key Facts

Statute: N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50
Code: N.J.A.C. 7:13
Max daily fine: $25,000
Federal tie-in: NFIP

Full Breakdown

Under N.J.S.A. 58:16A-50 et seq. and the Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules at N.J.A.C. 7:13, the Department of Environmental Protection regulates construction and disturbance within state-mapped flood hazard areas and riparian zones. The 2020 Inland Flood Protection Rule expanded these areas using climate-informed precipitation data. Every municipality must adopt a flood damage prevention ordinance meeting NFIP and state freeboard standards. Local rules may be stricter but cannot allow construction that fails state elevation, encroachment, or buffer requirements.

Violations & Penalties

DEP penalties can reach $25,000 per day, plus required removal of unlawful structures and loss of NFIP flood insurance eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do NJ flood rules apply outside FEMA mapped zones?

Yes. NJ DEP maps state flood hazard areas and riparian zones that often extend beyond FEMA maps, especially after the 2020 Inland Flood Protection Rule.

How high must I elevate a NJ home in a flood zone?

State rules generally require the lowest floor at least one foot above the design flood elevation, and many municipalities require additional freeboard.

New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act Statewide Rules

Key Facts

Full Breakdown

Violations & Penalties

Frequently Asked Questions

Sources

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