 GREEN COVE SPRINGS, Fla. — The 90-day appeal period for the FEMA flood zone changes starts August 20 and runs until November 18. FEMA is updating Clay County’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps, which determine flood risk and may affect whether some residents are required to carry flood insurance. The appeal period allows residents to request changes or inform FEMA of issues.
At a glance:
To appeal, property owners must have technical data to support proposed appeals. This includes scientific or study data. FEMA will also consider comments and inquiries regarding data such as incorrect street names, typographical errors, and omissions. You may submit appeals by emailing floodteam@claycountygov.com. Appeals without data will be denied.
The updated maps use improved science and data, offering more accurate information than the 2014 maps. While most properties will see no change, some will be added to or removed from Special Flood Hazard Areas.
Clay County urges residents and business owners to review the maps and learn how changes may affect their insurance, property protection activities, and emergency planning.
Flood Zone 101
In Clay County, the primary flood zones are X, X(shaded), A, AE & Floodway.
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High-risk areas (Special Flood Hazard Areas, or SFHAs) are designated as Zones A, AE and AE Floodway, and are required to have flood insurance if a federally-backed mortgage is involved.
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Flood Zone X -The area of minimal flood hazard and is generally not required to have flood insurance. No flood permits are required for development.
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Flood Zone X Shaded – (500 year floodplain) An area of moderate flood hazards which has a 0.2% chance of annual flooding and is generally not required to have flood insurance. No flood permits required for development.
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Flood Zones A & AE – (100 year floodplain) These areas have a 1% annual chance of flooding. Flood Zone A does not have a measured Base Flood Elevation. Flood Zone AE does. Flood insurance is required for mortgaged structures in these zones, as are flood permits for development and elevation certificates for new structures or substantial improvements.
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Floodway – This area is defined as the channel of a river, creek or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be preserved to safely discharge the base flood without causing increases in water elevation. Flood insurance is required for mortgaged structures in this zone, as are No-Rise Studies for any new development, flood permits and elevation certificates for new structures or substantial improvements.
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Clay County, Florida, blends tradition with innovation to promote prosperity, advancement, and a strong sense of community rooted in family values. Located just southwest of Jacksonville along the scenic St. Johns River, the County is home to more than 236,000 residents. It hosts the 73,000-acre Camp Blanding Training Facility and boasts a proud military heritage dating back to its founding in 1858. The Clay County Board of County Commissioners is committed to preserving the county's rich history and core values while embracing its progress, focusing on public safety, and supporting our strong business community to serve the county's current residents while building a legacy for future generations. Learn more at claycountygov.com.
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