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Floodplain Management

East Hempfield Township is a participating community in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).  As such, the Township agrees to abide by federal rules and regulations designed to protect the community from some effects of flooding.  Several areas of the Township are located within federally recognized floodplains and are subject to restrictions on development and use. In return for our participation in this program, property owners are eligible to obtain flood insurance.

Within floodplain areas, very little is permitted.  The Zoning Ordinance identifies the types of projects which are permitted. With very few exceptions, nothing new can be placed within a floodplain, including buildings, fences, and other structures.  The reconstruction of existing structures within floodplains is also restricted.  Please check with the Township before beginning any work in a floodplain or near any waterways such as creeks and streams.

FLOOD INSURANCE INFORMATION

Homeowners and property owners may purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) OR through private insurance companies.  Both products are sold through independent insurance brokers.  You do not need to be within a floodplain to obtain flood insurance, as properties outside floodplain areas MAY still be subject to flooding.  The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has created a website with information about flood insurance options available to Pennsylvanians:

Click here:  PA Flood Insurance Information

2016 MAP UPDATES

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which administers the National Flood Insurance Program, has updated maps within Lancaster County.  Theses new maps take advantage of modern technology to better identify the location of floodplain boundaries.  The new maps went into effect April 5, 2016.  Along with the new maps, the Township adopted a new ordinance which is consistent with Federal requirements.

The new Floodplain Management ordinance is available here:  2016 Floodplain Management Ordinance

PLEASE NOTE: There are areas of the Township which are within the regulated floodplain which are not shown on the FEMA maps.  These "unmapped" areas usually include smaller streams and creeks which have not yet been formally studied by FEMA. These areas are still regulated as floodplain areas by East Hempfield Township.

If you have questions, you may contact the Director of Planning and Development at 717-898-3100 or by email at planning@easthempfield.org.