Flood risks vary from neighborhood to neighborhood and even property to property in many cases. And these risks can change over time due to environmental changes and new development. Because of this, new floodplain maps have been developed by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) based on the latest digital mapping technology using the best data available today.

The new maps will show – on a property by property basis -- the extent to which areas of the city are currently at risk for flooding. Residents and business owners in Roswell may find that their flood risk is higher or lower than previously shown on the old floodplain maps developed more than 14 years ago. The process for adopting the new updated maps includes ample time to address questions and concerns that you may have about how the changes could affect you.   

Important information:

• The preliminary maps will be available for review in several places.  The maps can be viewed online at www.GeorgiaDFIRM.com. The paper maps can be reviewed by appointment by calling 770-641-3707.   
• Take a good look. Learn your level of flood risk, and how it may have changed.
• The new maps are more accurate, but it’s possible that you may have more current or better data.
• If you believe that the map is inaccurate regarding the Base Flood Elevation, it’s possible to file an appeal. You will need to provide scientific or technical data to support your appeal.
• More information on filing an appeal or a protest can be found at www.GeorgiaDFIRM.com.
• The total time available for public comment is 90 days. So if you do have a concern, you must file your appeal or protest before August 4, 2012.
• Property owners mapped out of a high-risk flood area to a lower risk area will find that insurance is optional, not required, and less expensive.  Flood insurance is still available, and is recommended, because the risk for flooding has only been reduced, not removed.  About 25 percent of all flood claims occur in areas of moderate-to-low-flood risk.
• You should also know about the money-saving insurance options that are available.  If you are mapped into a higher risk zone, you may be able to save money by purchasing insurance prior to the new flood map becoming effective – a process known as “grandfathering.”  If you are mapped into a lower risk zone, flood insurance will likely be less expensive.