Short answer: In Massachusetts, the Department of Conservation and Recreation's Flood Hazard Management Program is the state coordinating office for the NFIP. It's a technical-assistance program without regulatory authority; flood-resistant construction is enforced mainly through the statewide building code, the Wetlands Protection Act and local floodplain bylaws, including a 2026 Model Floodplain Bylaw.
This guide is general information for Massachusetts 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.
DCR's role
Per the state's Floodplain Management guide, DCR's Flood Hazard Management Program (FHMP) is the NFIP State Coordinating Office. FHMP works with FEMA and participating communities and offers guidance on mapping, flood-resistant construction, mitigation and insurance, but it has no regulatory authority itself.
Where the rules actually live
Because Massachusetts has a statewide mandatory building code, flood-resistant construction comes mainly from:
- The Massachusetts Building Code
- The Wetlands Protection Act (coastal dunes are defined in 310 CMR 10.28; ask your Conservation Commission for a site-specific dune determination)
- Title V septic regulations and local floodplain district bylaws
The state published a 2026 Massachusetts Model Floodplain Bylaw for towns. Some communities are more restrictive than FEMA, so check with the building department and conservation commission.
Coverage
DCR notes that correct mitigation can often lower flood premiums. Quote NFIP through FloodSmart; most new policies have a 30-day waiting period.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Massachusetts.
Frequently asked questions
Who coordinates the NFIP in Massachusetts?
DCR's Flood Hazard Management Program, a technical-assistance office without regulatory authority.
Where are Massachusetts flood construction rules?
Mainly in the statewide building code, the Wetlands Protection Act, Title V and local floodplain bylaws.
Is there a Massachusetts model floodplain bylaw?
Yes, the 2026 Massachusetts Model Floodplain Bylaw.
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.