DFIRM Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ's

What does "Map Modernization" mean?
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently in the process of a nationwide conversion of existing Flood Insurance Rate maps (FIRMs) into Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRMs). This process is known as Map Modernization. Not all counties in all states will included in the modernization, but the more populous counties like Tarrant County are included.

The flood map modernization has been a multi-year project to re-examine flood zones and develop detailed, digital flood hazard maps. FEMA has recently released, for public review, revised preliminary (DFIRMs) (digital maps) for the City of North Richland Hills. The newly issued preliminary maps reflect current flood risks and areas of recent growth. The acquisition of better data revealed that the existing maps, some of which are up to 12 years old, were not correct. As a result of the new maps, you and other property owners throughout the Tarrant County and North Richland Hills will have up-to-date, reliable, Internet-accessible information about your flood risk, on a property-by-property basis.

What is a DFIRM?
'DFIRM' stands for Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map. In the past, FEMA's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) were updated every 10-15 years in our area. The new digital format allows more accurate floodplain determinations and the capability to update the maps more frequently.

When do the maps become effective?
Once the appeals and protests are reviewed and any needed map changes are incorporated, FEMA will issue a Letter of Final Determination. The maps will become effective six months after the date of the Final Determination letter issued by FEMA. However, please be aware that starting immediately these flood hazard maps will be used in helping to determine requirements for construction and development. We anticipate that the new maps will be approved and become effective in late 2008 or early 2009, though the date cannot be pinpointed until the Tarrant County appeals are reviewed.

When was North Richland Hills' Public Comment Period?
September 20, 2007 to December 18, 2007. Documentation for all comments had to be submitted to the Public Works Administration Office at City Hall no later than December 14, 2007. City staff forwarded all requests to the FEMA Region IV office located in Denton County prior to the end of the 90-day Public Comment Period.

What is an Appeal?
An appeal is a formal objection to new or revised proposed Base Flood Elevation(s) (BFEs). Appeals are based on empirical data that show proposed base flood elevations to be scientifically or technically incorrect.

What is a Protest?
A Protest is a formal objection to any new or revised information that does not involve Base Flood Elevations. Protests generally involve comments regarding the boundaries of the updated floodplain, floodways or municipalities, and road names/locations.

How are Protests resolved? All protests were required to be submitted to the City of North Richland Hills prior to the end of the 90-day appeal period which ended on December 18, 2007. The protests were forwarded onto FEMA for final review and a decision. Following the review of all submitted data, FEMA will send a letter to the local government explaining the resolution of all of the appeals or protests. The decision to deny or approve the request will then be forwarded back to the applicant by FEMA. Approved requests will become effective the day after the maps are formally adopted, which is anticipated to occur in late 2008 or early 2009.

Where can I get additional information on Appeals and Protests?
Further information on this topic, as well as the NFIP and floodplain mapping, is available from the FEMA Map Assistance Center toll-free information line at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or via e-mail at FEMAMapSpecialist@mapmodteam.com.