FEMA has approved new flood zone maps for Pender County, which are scheduled to take effect on January 17th, 2025. The new maps will replace the existing flood maps for several areas of the County, predominantly east of US Highway 421. The latest flood zone maps can be found on the County’s website at https://gis.pendercountync.gov/maps; 

In many areas, the flood zones have expanded due to the increase in the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), which is the elevation of flood water resulting from a 1% annual chance of a storm event.  Information about site-specific BFEs can be found on the NC Flood Risk Information System website at https://fris.nc.gov; 

The new maps will also be used to help determine the cost of flood insurance for individual property owners. 

“It’s important for us to try to educate property owners on the upcoming changes associated with the new flood maps. We encourage folks to reach out to our office if they have any questions,” said County Resilience Planner Lee Duncan. The County will also be hosting an informational session at the Hampstead Annex on November 12th from 4 to 7 pm and encourages members of the public who have questions about the changes to attend.

You can also visit the Pender County Planning and Community Development website at https://nc-pendercounty.civicplus.com/549/Floodplain-Development.