Florida Flood Zone Map — FEMA FIRM Explained

The FEMA FIRM shows several flood zone types in Florida: **Zone VE** (Coastal High Hazard Area): The most hazardous flood zone, subject to wave action in addition to flooding. Buildings in VE zones must be elevated on open foundations (piles or columns) and must be designed for wave loads. VE zones are found along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. **Zone AE**: A high-risk flood zone subject to flooding but not wave action. Buildings in AE zones must be elevated to or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). AE zones are found along rivers, bays, and inland areas. **Zone X** (Shaded): A moderate-risk flood zone. Buildings in shaded X zones are not required to be elevated, but flood insurance is recommended. **Zone X** (Unshaded): A low-risk flood zone. Buildings in unshaded X zones are not required to be elevated. Use our FloodMark FL calculator to determine the flood zone for your specific Florida property.

The Base Flood Elevation (BFE) is the elevation of the 1% annual chance flood (also called the 100-year flood). Buildings in AE and VE flood zones must be elevated to or above the BFE. Many Florida jurisdictions require an additional 1–2 feet of freeboard above the BFE. The BFE is shown on the FEMA FIRM for AE and VE zones. Use our ElevationCalc FL calculator to determine the required finished floor elevation for your Florida property.