East Ridge adopts FEMA FIRM panels into municipal code to keep National Flood Insurance Program eligibility

The East Ridge Planning Commission voted Oct. 6 to amend the municipal floodplain zoning ordinance to incorporate eight updated FEMA flood insurance rate map (FIRM) panels, a step staff said is required before the FIRM panels— effective date of Nov. 28, 2025, to maintain standing in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

Vice chairperson Howe told the commission that FEMA finalized a nationwide update of FIRM panels using LIDAR-derived mapping and that East Ridge must adopt the updated panels to remain compliant with NFIP rules. Howe said the city—s floodplain ordinance was reviewed and approved by FEMA and the Tennessee review authority, and that adopting the maps "ensures that the city flood plain management regulations remain enforceable, consistent with federal and state requirements, and transparency to the public."

Staff stated there is "no direct fiscal impact to the city" from the adoption itself. Howe said failure to adopt by the deadline could lead to suspension from the NFIP, loss of federally backed flood insurance for property owners in East Ridge, and jeopardize eligibility for future disaster relief assistance.

There were no public comments. A motion to approve the ordinance amendment and adopt the associated FIRM panels was made, seconded and passed by roll call: Vice chairperson Howe — Yes; Commissioner Cornelius — Yes; Commissioner Williams — Yes; Commissioner Witt — Yes; commission chair (affirmative response recorded). The ordinance amendment was adopted.

The commission noted the city has eight FIRM panels to adopt; staff said they would follow up on GIS timing for making the maps available online.