---
title: "What Is Design flood elevation? Building Glossary"
description: "Design flood elevation is the height a local government requires for the lowest floor, usually the base flood elevation plus any required freeboard."
url: https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/design-flood-elevation
publisher: Halo Homes
phone: +1-813-956-1972
quote: https://build813.multisites.ai/contact
---

![Aerial view of a two-story white home with a pool on a canal](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/aerial-canal.DUcdGsF4_Z2mBUqP.avif)

# Design flood elevation

Design flood elevation is the height a local government requires for the lowest floor, usually the base flood elevation plus any required freeboard.

Design flood elevation (DFE) is the height your plans must reach. A 2021 City of Tampa report says it is typically the elevation at the top of [freeboard](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/freeboard), above the [base flood elevation](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/base-flood-elevation). If a map shows no BFE, the building official can ask for other data.

The DFE drives the foundation, the stairs and the floor-to-ceiling design. Check it before you buy a lot or draw a plan. An [elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate) later records how the finished floor compares. See [building in a flood zone](https://build813.multisites.ai/build-in-a-flood-zone-tampa) for the full path.

[Halo Homes can helpCustom home construction](https://build813.multisites.ai/services/custom-home-construction)

## Related terms

-   [Base flood elevation](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/base-flood-elevation)
-   [Freeboard](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/freeboard)
-   [Elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate)
-   [Florida Building Code](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/florida-building-code)

## Sources

1.  [City of Tampa: A Homeowner's Best Practices Manual (2021)](https://www.tampa.gov/sites/default/files/document/2021/Report%20VII%20Homeowners%20Guide.pdf)
2.  [FEMA: Freeboard](https://www.fema.gov/about/glossary/freeboard)

![Aerial view of waterfront homes on Tampa Bay with the downtown Tampa skyline in the distance](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/aerial-skyline.Bt8UN67d_ZwicJ3.avif)

## Start your home.

Tell Halo about your lot, your plans and your timing. A call or a short note is enough to begin.

[Start your home](https://build813.multisites.ai/contact)

Or call [(813) 956-1972](tel:+1-813-956-1972)