Short answer: Alabama's ADECA Office of Water Resources Floodplain Management Unit works with FEMA and local communities on floodplain ordinances and mitigation. Along the Gulf coast, Alabama's Quick Guide explains Coastal High Hazard Areas (V Zones) with wave action and Coastal A Zones landward of those areas, where some communities treat the Coastal A Zone like a V Zone for construction standards.
This guide is general information for Alabama property owners and renters about flood risk and the National Flood Insurance Program. It isn't a coverage determination. FEMA maps, your community's floodplain ordinance and your policy wording control.
ADECA Office of Water Resources
Per ADECA's Floodplain Management page, the OWR Floodplain Management Unit works closely with FEMA and local communities to strengthen mitigation plans and floodplain programs. Check your city or county floodplain administrator for elevation certificates and permits before you build or elevate.
Coastal V Zones and Coastal A Zones
ADECA's Floodplain Management in Alabama Quick Guide defines the Coastal High Hazard Area (V Zone) as the SFHA from offshore to the inland limit of a primary frontal dune, or any other area subject to high-velocity wave action, shown as Zone VE. Landward of that, a Coastal A Zone can see wave heights between about 1.5 and 3 feet; some communities treat the Coastal A Zone as a V Zone and require V-Zone construction methods. Ask your locality how it treats Coastal A Zones before you design a foundation.
Coverage
Alabama property policies generally exclude flood. Quote NFIP through FloodSmart early; most new policies wait 30 days.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Alabama.
Frequently asked questions
Who runs Alabama floodplain management at the state level?
ADECA's Office of Water Resources Floodplain Management Unit.
What is an Alabama Coastal A Zone?
The portion of the SFHA landward of a V Zone (or shoreline without a V Zone) where 1.5- to 3-foot waves can occur.
Do Alabama homeowners policies cover flood?
Generally no. Buy NFIP or private flood separately.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.