09/30/2026
🚨This is worth knowing!
FEMA is updating the flood maps for the Roanoke area. While most properties are not expected to see a change, some could be affected.
Why does this matter? Flood-zone changes can impact insurance, permitting, construction, and future development.
📅 The 90-day appeal/comment period runs September 30–December 29, 2026.
If you own property or are considering buying in the Roanoke area, now is a good time to check the updated maps and understand how they may affect a property.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is updating the maps that determine flood risk for Roanoke area properties. FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) updates are currently in a preliminary stage.
Starting today, September 30th, 2026, you can request corrections about the mapping provided and submit appeals or comments to FEMA, before the maps become final. This appeal period is open for 90-days, closing December 29th, 2026. You may submit an appeal if you perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is incorrect and include technical information to support the claim.
Most properties will see no flood risk change, but the updates may result in changes for some local properties. Check out the preliminary FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) on the City of Roanoke’s Real Estate GIS website or on the FEMA Map Service Center.
Appeals and comments can be submitted by contacting your local floodplain administrator. For the City of Roanoke, please contact the Planning Department by email at [email protected] or by phone at 540-853-1730. For more information on what qualifies for an appeal and how to apply see: https://www.roanokeva.gov/2877/Floodplain-Revisions
The next step in the mapping process is for FEMA to address any appeals from this 90-day period. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify the City of an effective map date and the City will have 6 months to adopt the new maps.
A change in your flood risk could impact requirements for flood insurance, permitting, construction, or allowable development on your property.