The purpose of this page is to define fill, a commonly used term in floodplain management. To explore other common floodplain management terms access the NFIP Policy Index.
Definition/Description
Earthen fill is sometimes placed in an Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) to reduce flood risk to the filled area. The placement of fill is considered development and will require a permit under applicable Federal, state and local laws, ordinances, and regulations. Fill is prohibited within the floodway unless it has been demonstrated that it will not result in any increase in flood levels. Some communities limit the use of fill in the flood fringe to protect storage capacity or require compensatory storage. The use of fill is prohibited for structural support of buildings in V Zones.
NFIP Requirement
60.3 Floodplain management criteria for flood-prone areas
- 60.3 (d)(3) - Floodway Requirement
- 60.3 (e)(6) - Fill in V Zones
Guidance
- IS-9 Managing Floodplain Development Through The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)(Page 5-29)
- Ensuring that Structures Built on Fill In or Near Special Flood Hazard Areas are Reasonably Safe From Flooding (FIA-TB-10)