FIRM Maps
We will post updates to this webpage as information becomes available.
Web Map: To assist you in understanding your flood risk, the City has developed a web map to view the new preliminary maps at https://maps.urbandale.org/fema/. To view Layers, click the button in the upper right that looks like a stack of paper. The "Flood Hazard Area Effective February 2019" in blue is the new maps as of 02/01/19. Turn on the "FEMA - LOMC" to view previously issued LOMAs for the City. See below for more info on existing LOMCs.
TIMELINE UPDATE 2/5/19: The new preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) became effective February 1, 2019. The City of Urbandale has taken steps to adopt these updated maps as well as update our existing floodplain development regulations in order to continue participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Preliminary Flood Maps: Over the past few years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has been refining, updating, and digitizing flood plain maps nationwide, culminating in the creation of new preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps for the City of Urbandale based on the most recent data. In February 2016, FEMA published a Public Notice for these preliminary maps, which started a period of review and appeal. That process is now completed, and the new maps became effective on February 1, 2019.
Informational Meeting: To help the public understand the changes in the preliminary maps and the options available to you as a property owner, the City of Urbandale hosted a public meeting on February 18, 2016. The presentation is available here: http://www.urbandale.org/DocumentCenter/View/3121 (see above for latest timeline information).
Existing LOMC/LOMA/LOMR: If you currently have an effective Letters of Map Change (LOMC), such as a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) or a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), you may view these on the above web map. LOMCs listed as "Not Incorporated" have been revalidated free-of-charge now that the revised maps have become effective. LOMCs listed as Superseded are longer in valid under the the maps, and a new LOMA will need to be obtained. If you have a LOMC that is not shown on our web map, please contact our office. View the full list of revalidated LOMCs here: LOMC Revalidation 2019-02-01
LOMA-OAS: For properties where the 100-year flood area touches the parcel but the building structure is clearly outside this area, the property owner may request a "Letter of Map Amendment – Out as Shown" (LOMA-OAS). Visit our LOMA-OAS webpage for more information on this process.
Additional Resources:
- Search current active FEMA documents at https://msc.fema.gov/portal/home
- FEMA has a list of FAQs on their website at http://www.fema.gov/homeowners-frequently-asked-questions.
- The Iowa DNR has also provided information on the new maps at www.iowafloodmaps.org
- Please contact Jason Conn with the Iowa DNR for information on flood insurance. Jason.Conn@dnr.iowa.gov, 515-725-8333.
- View the CRS Elevation Certificate Training Series at https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLRJw9u8nGNwP8sFZFMCyDqWNR1XnmzkpR