Letters of Map Changes

Flood maps show areas that may be at risk of flooding, but conditions on an individual property may not always match what is shown on the map. If a property or structure appears to be incorrectly shown in a mapped flood hazard area, a property owner may be able to request a formal map review through FEMA.

A Letter of Map Change is FEMA’s official process for reviewing whether a property, structure, or portion of land should be included in a Special Flood Hazard Area. These requests usually require property-specific information, such as elevation data, survey information, or other supporting documentation.

When to Request a Map Change

A map change request may be appropriate when a property owner believes a structure, parcel, or portion of land is incorrectly shown in a Special Flood Hazard Area.

Common reasons may include:

• A structure is shown in a flood hazard area, but elevation information shows it is above the base flood elevation.
• A portion of land is shown in a flood hazard area, but updated information shows it should be removed.
• A property owner, surveyor, engineer, or community official has property-specific data that may support a map revision.

Types of Map Changes

FEMA has several types of Letters of Map Change. The type of request depends on what is being reviewed and what information is available.

Before You Apply

Before submitting a map change request, property owners should review the current flood map and contact the local floodplain administrator for the community where the property is located.

The local floodplain administrator can help explain local requirements, confirm whether permits or documentation may be needed, and provide community-specific guidance.

Important to Know: A Letter of Map Change may affect how a structure or parcel is shown on a flood map, but it does not remove all flood risk. Flooding can still happen outside mapped high-risk flood areas.

A Letter of Map Change also does not automatically remove local permitting requirements. Always contact the local floodplain administrator before building, filling, grading, or making improvements in or near a mapped floodplain.

How to Request a Map Change

FEMA manages the Letter of Map Change process. Property owners, surveyors, engineers, or community officials may submit a request online through FEMA’s Online Letter of Map Change system or by using FEMA’s paper application forms.

The type of request depends on the map change being requested. FEMA uses MT-EZ, MT-1, and MT-2 forms for different types of Letter of Map Change requests. Some requests may require supporting information from a licensed surveyor or engineer, such as elevation data, survey information, or other property-specific documentation.

Before applying, review FEMA’s Letter of Map Amendment and Letter of Map Revision-Based on Fill guidanceto understand which process may apply and what documentation may be needed.

Flood Insurance

If a Letter of Map Change removes a structure from a Special Flood Hazard Area, a lender may choose to waive the federal flood insurance requirement. However, flood insurance may still be recommended because flood damage can occur outside mapped high-risk areas.Property owners should talk with their insurance agent and lender about how a map change may affect insurance requirements, coverage, and premiums.