What if there is no elevation on a flood map?
If the property is in a flood zone A, without a letter or number after the “A”, the flood zone is approximate and not based on a detailed flood study. No BFE has been determined for the area. FEMA can only approve a LOMA or LOMR-F if a BFE has been established using standard engineering methodology. If the BFE has not been established you may contact another government agency that has actually conducted a flood study, and determined flood elevations. You can check with your local building, planning, zoning, or storm water management office. If there is no existing flood study, one will have to be developed by a registered engineer in order to process a LOMA or LOMR-F. FEMA publication 263, entitled “Managing Floodplain Development in Approximate Zone A Areas”, may help guide an engineer in conducting the necessary flood study. This manual may be ordered free of charge by calling 1-800-480-2520, or may be downloaded from the FEMA web site at www.fema.
