Flood Mitigation Assistance
The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program supports projects and planning activities that reduce or eliminate long-term flood risk to buildings, manufactured homes, and other structures insured through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). In Tennessee, TEMA administers the FMA program and is responsible for reviewing applications submitted by eligible communities and forwarding selected applications for federal consideration.
Program Purpose
FMA supports cost-effective measures that reduce long-term flood risk and future flood losses. The program is intended to:
- Reduce repetitive and substantial flood damage and associated claims to the National Flood Insurance Fund.
- Encourage long-term, comprehensive mitigation planning.
- Help communities participating in the NFIP expand mitigation efforts beyond floodplain development review and permitting.
- Complement other federal and state mitigation programs with similar long-term risk-reduction goals.
What FMA Can Support
FMA funding is available for mitigation planning and the implementation of mitigation measures. Projects may include, but are not limited to:
- Property acquisition
- Elevation
- Relocation
- Other projects that reduce flood risk
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are communities that participate in the NFIP and submit applications through the state process. Because individuals cannot apply directly, property owners interested in a project should work with their local government. Because this is a federally funded program, eligibility requirements may vary by funding cycle and project type.
How to Apply
Applicants should coordinate with TEMA early to discuss project eligibility, required documentation, and current funding availability.
Application Process
Anyone who is interested in applying for Flood Mitigation Assistance, should first submit a Statement of Interest to provide initial information about the proposed project.
Note: FMA funding is only available when there is an open funding opportunity.
After completing the Statement of Interest form, a TEMA Mitigation Specialist will contact the interested applicant to discuss the project and review initial eligibility. If the project is determined initially eligible, TEMA will provide an application packet with the required forms and supporting documentation needed to apply.
Applicants should complete and submit the application through EM Grants, TEMA's grant portal. All resources for the application process can be found in the portal.
TEMA will review submitted applications before forwarding selected applications to FEMA for review. Applicants may be asked to provide additional information during the review process.