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1. What is a floodplain?

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) defines a floodplain as a land area that is susceptible to being inundated by water from any source.

2. What is a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)?

A FIRM is a flood map created by FEMA to designate special flood hazards and risk premium zones applicable within the community. It is used by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for floodplain management, mitigation, and insurance purposes.

3. What is a Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?

Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the computed elevation to which floodwater is expected to rise during the base flood. BFEs are shown on FIRMs and on the flood profiles. The BFE is the regulatory requirement for the elevation or floodproofing of structures. The relationship between the BFE and a structure's elevation determines the flood insurance premium. Read more about BFE.

4. How do I know if I'm in a flood zone?

The FEMA flood map service center will show current map information to allow you to view and print your property area for a lender or insurance agent, if needed. Most agents or lending facilities want to see rate maps pulled directly from the FEMA website for their records.

You may also submit a request for floodplain information to City of Leander Engineering at 512-528-2766 or email Floodplain. Please include specific location and contact information with your request.