Can I change my flood zone determination?

It depends on the reason for the change in flood zone. If a property owner thinks their property has been inadvertently mapped in a Special Flood Hazard Area or is now out of the flood zone due to elevating the structure or another reason, they may submit a request to FEMA for a Letter of Map Change or Amendment (LOMA). The requirements of the LOMA depend upon the reason for the requested change in flood zone and may require the applicant to hire a licensed surveyor or engineer. 

If the request is granted, property owners may be eligible for lower flood insurance premiums, or the option to not purchase flood insurance.

If an elevation certificate is required to support the change in flood zone, the elevations must be certified by a Registered Professional Engineer or Licensed Land Surveyor.

A Letter of Map Change (LOMC) reflects an official revision/amendment to an effective Flood Insurance Rate Map. If the LOMC request is granted, property owners may be eligible for lower flood insurance premiums, or the option to not purchase flood insurance.

A Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) is a letter from FEMA stating that an existing structure or parcel of land that is on naturally high ground and has not been elevated by fill, would not be inundated by the base flood. Applicants can now use the Online LOMC, an Internet-based tool, to easily request a Letter of Map Amendment. The Online LOMC tool is available to any applicant who would like to submit a LOMC request directly to FEMA and does not require a surveyor or engineer to submit.

A Letter of Map Amendment-Out As Shown (LOMA-OAS) is a determination made by FEMA for the property and/or buildings as to whether it is located with the SFHA. Only use this method if it is clear, visually, that the structure is not in the SFHA. Instructions are available online.

Show All Answers

1. I have been affected by the fire, will I receive any relief to rebuild my home from Engineering?
2. How can I verify that my new main dwelling square footage will meet the rebuild regulation of under 100% of the original space?
3. Where can I apply for a grading or floodplain management permit?
4. When is the Winter Shutdown period?
5. Do I have to apply for a Floodplain Management Permit?
6. What is a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)?
7. Can I change my flood zone determination?
8. What is the typical timeframe for the County's review of Improvement Plans and Grading Plans?
9. I want to complain about flooding in my neighborhood
10. When will my bond or security for a grading permit be returned to me?
11. When do I need to obtain an encroachment permit?
12. Who do I contact to check if a contractor is licensed?
13. Who do I contact to file a complaint about illegal construction activity?
14. How should we prepare our property for rain after a fire?