Floodplain restoration projects could avoid fees and meet safety limits

A requester would not have to pay a review or processing fee for a flood insurance map change request based on an ecosystem restoration project. An ecosystem restoration project aims to restore or improve natural functions of an aquatic resource or floodplain. The request must be based on an ecosystem restoration project.

A community could allow an ecosystem restoration project in an adopted floodway even if it raises the base flood level. This applies to ecosystem restoration projects within an adopted regulatory floodway. An engineer must determine that the project, together with existing development, would raise the base flood level by no more than 1 foot, or another amount or measure set by FEMA’s Administrator. No insured building or critical infrastructure may be in an area that would be harmed by the higher flood level. Within 180 days after the project is finished, the community must send the Administrator an analysis of the changed conditions. Within 180 days after the project is finished, the community must send the Administrator an analysis of changed conditions.

FEMA’s Administrator would issue guidance on carrying out the ecosystem restoration project rules. Covered agencies are federal and state natural resource agencies identified by the Administrator. The Administrator must consult with the heads of covered federal and state natural resource agencies. The Administrator must issue the guidance within 180 days after the Act is enacted.