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Peterborough adopts updated FEMA flood maps; new permit triggers explained
Summary
Town Planner Danica Miller presented updated FEMA flood maps for the Contoocook watershed and the Select Board adopted the maps by resolution under RSA 674:57, triggering permit requirements for substantial improvements and barring manufactured homes in the 100‑year floodplain.
The Peterborough Select Board voted June 2 to adopt updated FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map panels and the associated Flood Insurance Study for Hillsborough County dated June 10, 2026, incorporating those maps by reference into the town’s zoning ordinance under RSA 674:57.
Town Planner Danica Miller said the update reflects changes in the Contoocook watershed and noted the Town notified property owners whose parcels would see a new or increased floodplain designation. Miller summarized regulatory consequences: permitting requirements are triggered when a property undergoes a "substantial improvement"—defined in town practice as work equal to 50% or more of a structure’s assessed value—potentially requiring elevated utilities and flood vent openings. She also noted the town cannot permit manufactured homes in the 100‑year floodplain.
Chair Tyler Ward read the adopting resolution aloud, incorporating FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Map panels and Flood Insurance Study into the town’s zoning ordinance. The board approved the resolution unanimously to remain in compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS); Miller said FEMA requires adoption by June 10, 2026, for continued compliance.
Select Board members asked for clarification about regulatory triggers and frequency of updates. Miller said updates depend on watershed studies and resource availability; the current update covers nine towns in the Contoocook watershed and reflects new hydrologic information provided to FEMA.
What this means for property owners: if a homeowner proposes a substantial improvement or a new development in newly mapped flood hazard areas, the project may require elevation, flood‑proofing measures or other mitigation steps required by NFIP rules that the town enforces through local permitting. The Planning Department will file the resolution and publish guidance for residents and permit applicants.
