The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provides flood maps that the LEED for Neighborhood Development project team would need to prepare as an exhibit for an upcoming zoning commission meeting. For projects outside the U.S., the equivalent local agency would provide similar data.

Flood Maps and FEMA:FEMA is the primary agency responsible for creating and maintaining flood hazard mapsin the United States. These maps delineate areas that are at risk of flooding, typically including 100-year and 500-year floodplains. These maps are crucial for urban planning and compliance with federal regulations, such as those related to flood insurance.

Purpose of Flood Maps:Flood maps are used to identify areas that are prone to flooding, which is essential for ensuring that new developments are sited in locations that minimize flood risk. In the context of LEED-ND, these maps help determine whether the project site complies with floodplain avoidance prerequisites and credits.

Local Equivalents:Outside the United States, similar agencies may exist to provide flood risk information. These agencies follow local regulations and standards but serve the same purpose as FEMA in helping to mitigate the risks associated with flooding.

The LEED Reference Guide for Neighborhood Development provides information on the requirements for floodplain avoidance and the documentation needed, including flood maps.

TheLEED v4 Neighborhood Developmentdocumentation offers further guidance on how to use flood maps in the certification process.

Detailed Explanation:References:For additional reference, consult:

LEED Reference Guide for Neighborhood Development

LEED v4 Neighborhood Development