Could I build a berm to protect my house or property, and would it reduce or eliminate the flood insurance requirement?
Flood protection measures can help mitigate the impacts of flooding and reduce potential losses. Such measures could be as elaborate as constructing a berm around or flood proofing an at-risk structure, or as simple as relocating valuable records and possessions above the flood protection elevation. Construction of flood protection improvements may not adversely impact neighboring properties and must comply with building standards and engineering practices. They also require a permit from the City or County to ensure compliance with floodplain ordinances. FEMA will not recognize flood protection or flood proofing measures for flood insurance purposes. While such measures may reduce the flood damage risk exposure, they will not eliminate the mandatory flood insurance requirement or reduce flood insurance premiums.
