Manatee accepting appeals of updated flood maps

Nov. 4--MANATEE COUNTY -- Property owners in Manatee County who disagree with the preliminary flood risk maps released by the Federal Emergency Management Agency earlier this year can file appeals with the county government.

The maps can impact insurance rates.

According to the county: "Over time, flood risks change due to weather events, environmental changes, erosion, land use and other factors. Maps are updated periodically to reflect these changes."

Any property owner or lessee who believes his or her property rights will be adversely affected by the proposed flood hazard determinations can file an appeal. That appeal must include information or data indicating that the determination of flood risk is "scientifically or technically incorrect."

Property owners can check whether their flood zone status has changed by going to www.mymanatee.org/floodzonechanges and entering their address.

The A (blue), AE (lavender) and VE (green) zones are regarded as high risk for flooding and typically require flood insurance.

The X (shaded) zone is considered at moderate risk and does not typically require flood insurance.

The other X (no color) zone is considered low risk and typically does not require flood insurance.

The D (shaded) zone is considered at possible but unknown risk and should not require flood insurance.

Appeals must be submitted by Dec. 31 through the county, which will forward the information to FEMA in January.

Appeals should be emailed to flood@mymanatee.org or mailed to Manatee County, 1112 Manatee Ave. W., fourth floor, Bradenton, FL 34205.

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