Technical Resources
Multiple groups with a stake in protecting their communities from flooding carry out floodplain management functions, including zoning, building codes, enforcement, education, and other tasks. We have tools and resources to help communities navigate National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements and implement higher standards of floodplain management. State and federal agencies, local communities, and property owners all have a role in reducing flood risk and helping communities become more resilient.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Publications
- Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 44
- Floodplain Management Requirements, FEMA 480
- FEMA Community Rating System: The National Flood Insurance Program's (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS) is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP requirements.
FEMA Forms
Tennessee Resources
- Tennessee Communities Participating in the National Flood Program
- Tennessee No-Rise Guidance Document
- Tennessee Association of Floodplain Management: TNAFPM was created to promote education, policies and activities that prevent future flood losses, thereby protecting the natural and beneficial functions of Tennessee's floodplains.
Tennessee Flood Damage Prevention Model Ordinances
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), in consultation with FEMA Region IV, has developed model ordinances for use by NFIP-participating communities. The NFIP requires that community ordinances be legally enforceable and uniformly applied throughout the community. Local governments have the authority and responsibility to manage development in the floodplain. Regulations adopted through a local floodplain management ordinance are administered and enforced by the community, not by TEMA. Requirements in a local ordinance will be based on the flood zones mapped in that community.