Flood zones, development rules, and insurance in Hillsborough

Check both FEMA flood-zone information and the County floodplain viewer before planning work. County floodplains can trigger development rules even where federal flood-insurance requirements differ; federally backed mortgage insurance requirements are based on FEMA maps. In the Special Flood Hazard Area, Hillsborough requires compliance with applicable County, state, and federal floodplain standards. For SFHA projects, the County requires Substantial Improvement Worksheets with the construction plans for review and recording with the permit application, or an approved FEMA Elevation Certificate documenting proper elevation and compliance with flood-resistant construction requirements. For substantial damage or improvement questions, use the County's current guidelines and have the authority evaluate the property's documented value and project scope; do not estimate eligibility from this summary.