This page provides general information on hazard mitigation and the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant programs.
What is Hazard Mitigation?
Hazard Mitigation is any action taken to reduce or eliminate long term risk to people and property from natural disasters. Hazard Mitigation planning is a process used by State, tribal, and local governments to identify risks and vulnerabilities associated with natural disasters and develop mitigation strategies to reduce or eliminate long term risks. Examples of Hazard Mitigation projects funded by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs may include, but are not limited to buy-outs, elevations and safe rooms. Further information on mitigation actions may be found in Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards (2013).
Does FEMA provide any financial assistance for Hazard Mitigation projects and planning?
Currently, FEMA administers three programs that provide funding for eligible mitigation planning and projects that reduces disaster losses and protect life and property from future disaster damages. The three programs are the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program, and the Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program.
- HMGP assists in implementing long-term hazard mitigation planning and projects following a Presidential major disaster declaration
- PDM provides funds for hazard mitigation planning and projects on an annual basis
- FMA provides funds for planning and projects to reduce or eliminate risk of flood damage to buildings that are insured under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) on an annual basis
HMGP funding is generally 15% of the total amount of Federal assistance provided to a State, Territory, or federally-recognized tribe following a major disaster declaration. PDM and FMA funding depends on the amount congress appropriates each year for those programs.
Individual homeowners and business owners may not apply directly to FEMA. Eligible local governments may apply on their behalf.
Where Can I Find More Information?
Please refer to the current program guidance for detail information on the Hazard Mitigation Assistance programs. The program guidance is available in the FEMA Library.
The latest news and updates for FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant programs can be found here.
For more information on FEMA’s mitigation planning program requirements and resources, please visit /hazard-mitigation-planning.