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1. What are flood zones?

Flood zones are geographic areas that FEMA has defined according to varying levels of flood risk and type of flooding. These zones are depicted on the published Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). Click here for more information about flood zones.

2. What flood zones require flood insurance?

Flood insurance is required by the federal regulations for structures either partially or completely in Flood Zone AE or VE and with a mortgage backed by federal programs. Owning flood insurance is necessary to maintain eligibility for most federal or federally related financial reconstruction or acquisition assistance.In the City of Portsmouth, the chance of flooding is real for everyone with our risk coming from both coastal and rain event flooding. It is recommended to obtain flood insurance even if it is not required to have it.

3. How do I find out what flood zone I am in?

Everyone is in a flood zone of some kind. There are four major zones: AE, VE, X Shaded, and X Unshaded. Zone AE is a high-risk flood area. Zone VE is a high-risk flood area with the additional risk of wave action. Zone X Shaded is an area of moderate flood risk. Zone X Unshaded is considered the area of minimal flood risk.

Some areas also have a Limit of Moderate Wave Action (LiMWA) shown on the FIRM. The LiMWA is the location where the 1% annual chance wave height equals 1.5 feet. FEMA began showing the LiMWA on Flood Insurance Rate Maps to communicate the higher risk that exists in the area because the 1.5-foot breaking wave in the LiMWA zone can potentially cause foundation failure.

Paper copies of the FIRMs for Portsmouth may be viewed in the Department of Planning on the 4th floor of City Hall. For specific flood zone information, please contact Floodplain Management at 757-393-8522.