According to FEMA, which area of a floodplain allows for encroachment?

The most accurate understanding of floodplain management according to FEMA is that the floodway fringe where the surcharge cannot exceed 1.0 ft is designated as an area that allows for encroachment, under specified conditions.

The floodway fringe is the portion of the floodplain beyond the floodway, which can absorb floodwaters but is also subject to regulations that limit development and encroachment to minimize risks. The specific condition of the surcharge not exceeding 1.0 ft indicates that while some level of encroachment is permissible, it is still tightly controlled to avoid significantly increasing flood stage elevations.

This approach balances the need for development and land use with flood risk management and safety. By allowing some encroachment within these controlled parameters, it helps in managing flood impacts while also considering economic development opportunities in less critical areas of the floodplain.

In contrast, floodways are strictly regulated areas where any encroachment is generally not permitted due to the high risk of flooding. Floodplain fringes without restrictions would not comply with FEMA’s goals of managing flood risks effectively.