Flooding can happen anywhere; in fact, many of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims come from areas that are not considered to be a high flood risk. Knowing it can happen any time, and is the most common and costly natural disaster, Florida residents need to be vigilant in their protection against flooding.
The city’s Flood Plain Management program seeks to increase hazard awareness of Boca Raton flood zones, as well as reduce water damage claims, protect the natural functions of floodplains, and bolster flood insurance coverage. To this end, the city participates in the NFIP’s Community Rating system, which is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities. Because Boca Raton participates in this program, city residents in all flood zones are rewarded with a 10% reduction in flood insurance premiums.
Boca Raton Flood Zones (Palm Beach County)
How do you know if you’re in a flood zone? You can visit www.myboca.us/flood or call Floodplain Management (561) 393-7792. Additionally, you can follow a few easy steps to use the online map tool.
1) Enter your address
2) Click on the icon all the way on the left
3) Open “Commonly Used Layers”
4) Click on “Flood Zone Map” to see current flood zones
Boca Raton and Palm Beach County rely on the National Weather Service (NWS) for impending flooding warnings. The NWS issues flood advisories when heavy rainfall and possible flooding are expected. The city also utilizes the CodeRED Emergency Notification system to notify Boca Raton residents of emergency conditions via telephone. Residents can sign up for this service at through the City of Boca Raton’s link or by calling (561) 393-7700.
All Florida residents should carry flood insurance to protect their business, building, home and the contents of their home whether they live in an area considered to be in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) or not. Regular homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover property loss due to flooding in Boca Raton flood zones. Also, keep in mind, there is a 30-day waiting period after purchasing a policy before coverage takes effect.
If you need assistance finding flood insurance, you can visit: FloodSmart.gov, call FEMA 1-800-427-4661 or contact your local city government (561) 393-7792.