Floodplain Management

Floded StreetThe City of Mesquite Engineering Division Stormwater section is responsible for managing the city’s drainage facilities and floodplain. Our highest priority is ensuring the public is safe from flooding and the city is in compliance with FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). City staff also provides information to citizens to make them aware of their flood risks and advise them on the purchase of flood insurance.

Learn more about how Mesquite became a member of the NFIP.

Map Modernization Program
Since 2004 FEMA has been pursuing a nationwide Flood Map Modernization Program (Map Mod) with the goal of providing updated floodplain mapping in a digital geographic information system (GIS) format to 92% of the nation’s population. FEMA has recently released preliminary Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps for Dallas and Kaufman Counties which will change the location of the floodplain throughout the City of Mesquite once they become effective.

Present Status & Property Owner Impact
Federal regulations require home owners with federally insured mortgages (FHA or VA) are required to carry flood insurance if their home is located within the 100 year floodplain. The cost of this insurance can be a significant financial burden. Mortgage companies also have the option of requiring flood insurance for any mortgage they hold as a means of protecting the loan collateral. Engineering staff are prepared to assist citizens in making a determination of their floodplain status and assisting them in making decisions to minimize financial impacts.

To learn if your property is within or outside a mapped FEMA floodplain please go to FEMA’s interactive floodplain map service center at https://msc.fema.gov/portal or call 972-329-8537.

If your property has been included in the floodplain with the new mapping and you determine that you will be required to obtain flood insurance, you may qualify for a reduced rate for up to two years after the maps become effective. You can learn more about flood mapping and insurance or find out if you qualify for a reduced rate floodplain insurance click on our links page.