FEMA has released the new Preliminary Maps which are the next step to generating new FIRM (Flood Insurance Rate Maps).  These maps can be utilized with the link tools provided for the general public to find their current Flood Elevation.  This is an important tool to find your current flood zone and elevation.  For flood elevations, these maps are the next step from the ABFE maps for flood insurance purposes.  The Preliminary Maps are the basis for what the insurance companies will base your flood insurance on.  Please be advised that these maps are “Preliminary” and are just being introduced.  The public is encouraged to review them and the flood elevations with respect to your property

For Township purposes and elevating of structures the current ordinance relies on the ABFE maps and an elevation of 12 which includes the necessary freeboard.  This will be in place until the new FIRM maps have been through comment period and review and are adopted as the official FIRM maps.  At that time the Township will evaluate how this compares to the ABFE’s and the adopted elevation of 12 to the new FIRM maps and see if any revisions are necessary to the current ordinance.

The following links are very helpful for individuals to locate their property

http://www.fema.gov/view-your-communitys-preliminary-flood-hazard-data-0

http://www.region2coastal.com/flood-risk-tools

http://www.fema.gov/preliminaryfloodhazarddata