Virginia Statewide Rule

Virginia Floodplain Management and NFIP Coordination

Heavy RestrictionsApplies statewide across Virginia (2026)

Virginia coordinates floodplain management statewide through DCR, requiring localities to adopt floodplain ordinances meeting National Flood Insurance Program minimums for residents to access federal flood insurance.

Key Facts

State Coordinator: Virginia DCR
Statute: Va. Code 10.1-600
Building Code Reference: ASCE 24 via VUSBC
Federal Standard: 44 CFR 60.3

Source: Virginia Legislative Information System

Full Breakdown

Va. Code Section 10.1-600 et seq. authorizes the Department of Conservation and Recreation as the state coordinator for the National Flood Insurance Program. Localities must adopt floodplain management ordinances meeting 44 CFR 60.3 standards to qualify residents for NFIP coverage. Section 10.1-603.2 grants localities authority to regulate development in special flood hazard areas. The Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code (13VAC5-63) incorporates ASCE 24 flood-resistant construction requirements that supersede conflicting local construction rules.

Violations & Penalties

Construction in floodplains without local permits violates both the building code and floodplain ordinance, risking insurance ineligibility and federal disaster assistance limits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia require flood insurance?

Virginia does not mandate flood insurance, but federally backed mortgages on properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas require it under federal law. Local ordinance compliance keeps NFIP eligibility.

Can my locality have stricter floodplain rules than the state?

Yes. Localities may exceed NFIP minimums (higher freeboard, larger setbacks). Construction standards still must comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.

Sources

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Full Breakdown

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia require flood insurance?

Virginia does not mandate flood insurance, but federally backed mortgages on properties in Special Flood Hazard Areas require it under federal law. Local ordinance compliance keeps NFIP eligibility.

Can my locality have stricter floodplain rules than the state?

Yes. Localities may exceed NFIP minimums (higher freeboard, larger setbacks). Construction standards still must comply with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code.