---
title: "What Is Special flood hazard area? Building Glossary"
description: "A special flood hazard area (SFHA) is the part of a FEMA map where federal floodplain rules apply and flood insurance is mandatory for federally backed loans."
url: https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/special-flood-hazard-area
publisher: Halo Homes
phone: +1-813-956-1972
quote: https://build813.multisites.ai/contact
---

![Front of a two-story white modern home with wide stone steps and palms](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/front-entry-stair.uOUDI-Bb_Z25DP1V.avif)

# Special flood hazard area

A special flood hazard area (SFHA) is the part of a FEMA map where federal floodplain rules apply and flood insurance is mandatory for federally backed loans.

The special flood hazard area is the part of a FEMA map with the highest flood risk. It covers zones such as A, AE, V and VE. Inside it, local governments must enforce floodplain rules, and the mandatory purchase of flood insurance applies.

A lot inside the SFHA needs extra paperwork, starting with an [elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate). The [flood insurance rate map](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/flood-insurance-rate-map) shows where the boundary falls. Use our [flood zone building guide](https://build813.multisites.ai/build-in-a-flood-zone-tampa) to plan around it. Zone lines can change when FEMA updates a map, so check the current FIRM for the address.

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

## Related terms

-   [Flood insurance rate map](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/flood-insurance-rate-map)
-   [FEMA flood zone AE](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/fema-flood-zone-ae)
-   [Elevation certificate](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/elevation-certificate)
-   [Base flood elevation](https://build813.multisites.ai/glossary/base-flood-elevation)

## Sources

1.  [FEMA: Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)](https://www.fema.gov/about/glossary/special-flood-hazard-area-sfha)
2.  [City of Tampa: Flood Information](https://www.tampa.gov/tss-stormwater/info/flood)

![Front of a two-story white modern home with wide stone steps and palms](https://build813.multisites.ai/_astro/front-entry-stair.uOUDI-Bb_ZQcaix.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)