Floodplain Management

General Information

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has provided New Kent County with Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) effective October 21, 2021. New Kent County regulates development in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) through the Floodplain Management Ordinance, which allows the County to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Flood Insurance

Participation in the NFIP makes federally-backed flood insurance available to everyone in the County. All homeowners, renters, and business owners should way their options regarding flood insurance, while keeping in mind the following: 

  • Property owners with structures in the SFHA are required to have flood insurance if they have a government backed mortgage. 
  • Most insurance policies will not cover losses due to flooding. Even if you do not have a mortgage, flood insurance may be a good idea.
  • Flooding can occur anywhere and you do not need to live near water to be flooded.
  • Renters can obtain insurance to cover contents of the rented property.
  • Government aide, typically in the form of a loan, will only become available if the event is declared a disaster by the President.

General Development Requirements 

ALL proposed development in the SFHA requires review and approval by County staff. Development means any man-made change to property including, but not limited to, new structures, additions, filling, grading, excavation, or storage of equipment/materials. 

The regulated SFHA's in New Kent County include zones A, AE, and VE. To discuss the specific requirements of your project, please contact the Environmental Department at 804-966-8580.

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