The purpose of this page is to define basements, a commonly used term in floodplain management. To explore other common floodplain management terms access the NFIP Policy Index.
Definition/Description
Any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides. The lowest floor of a residential building including basement must be above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Basements below the BFE are only allowed in communities that have obtained a basement exception from FEMA. Floodproofed non-residential basements are allowed.
NFIP Requirement
- 59.1 - Definition
- 60.3 - Flood plain management criteria for flood-prone areas
- (c)(2) - Elevation Requirements for Residential Buildings
- (c)(3) - Requirements for Nonresidential Buildings
Guidance
- IS-9 Managing Floodplain Development Through The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) (page 5-39)
- Ensuring That Structures Built on Fill In or Near Special Flood Hazard Areas Are Reasonably Safe From Flooding (FIA-TB-10)
- Below-Grade Parking Requirements for Buildings Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (FIA-TB-6)
Related Keywords
Special Topic Resources
- Basement exceptions
- 60.6 (b) and ( c)
- Federal Register Vol. 51, No.60, March 28, 1986, Proposed Rule, pp. 10746-10747
Last Updated:
04/26/2016 - 13:46