CFS FEMA Map Amendment & Revision Processes 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA)?
- To remove a structure or parcel inadvertently included in the SFHA based on natural ground elevation above the BFE (Correct answer)
- To revise FEMA flood maps when fill material has been placed on a property
- To propose conditional flood map changes before a construction project begins
- To update floodway boundaries following new hydraulic modeling
Correct answer: To remove a structure or parcel inadvertently included in the SFHA based on natural ground elevation above the BFE
A LOMA is an administrative action that removes a property from the SFHA when it was inadvertently mapped in the flood zone despite its natural ground elevation being at or above the BFE.
Question 2: Which FEMA administrative process applies when fill material has been placed on a property to elevate it above the Base Flood Elevation?
- Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA)
- Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F) (Correct answer)
- Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR)
- Physical Map Revision (PMR)
Correct answer: Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F)
A LOMR-F is used specifically when fill has been placed to raise the lowest adjacent grade above the BFE, distinguishing it from a LOMA which applies to natural ground conditions.
Question 3: The MT-EZ form is the simplified LOMA application appropriate for which situation?
- A single lot or single structure on natural grade not involving fill (Correct answer)
- Multiple lots requiring full hydraulic analysis and BFE revision
- Floodway boundary revisions affecting an entire community
- Coastal high hazard area (Zone VE) amendments
Correct answer: A single lot or single structure on natural grade not involving fill
MT-EZ is designed for straightforward LOMA cases involving a single structure or single lot on natural grade, simplifying the submission process for uncomplicated situations.
Question 4: What elevation value is critical when submitting a LOMA application for a structure?
- The Lowest Adjacent Grade (LAG) elevation compared to the Base Flood Elevation (Correct answer)
- The highest adjacent grade elevation on the parcel
- The top of lowest floor elevation only, without reference to adjacent grade
- The crown of the nearest road relative to the floodplain
Correct answer: The Lowest Adjacent Grade (LAG) elevation compared to the Base Flood Elevation
FEMA evaluates whether the Lowest Adjacent Grade of a structure is at or above the BFE to determine if the property qualifies for removal from the SFHA via a LOMA.
Question 5: Unlike a LOMR, a LOMA typically becomes effective:
- 90 days after publication in the Federal Register
- 30 days after FEMA mails the determination letter
- Immediately upon FEMA's issuance of the determination (Correct answer)
- Only after the local community formally adopts the change
Correct answer: Immediately upon FEMA's issuance of the determination
A LOMA is an administrative correction that takes effect immediately upon issuance because it removes property from the SFHA and does not require a public appeal period.
Question 6: Which professional is authorized to certify the elevation data required for a LOMA application?
- A licensed land surveyor or registered professional engineer (Correct answer)
- A licensed general contractor with floodplain experience
- A state-certified real estate appraiser
- A FEMA-certified floodplain manager (CFM) only
Correct answer: A licensed land surveyor or registered professional engineer
FEMA requires elevation certifications for LOMA applications to be signed and sealed by a licensed land surveyor or registered professional engineer, ensuring professional accountability.
Question 7: If FEMA denies a LOMA application, what is the appropriate next step for the property owner?
- Submit additional supporting documentation or new scientific and technical data to request reconsideration (Correct answer)
- File a federal lawsuit immediately challenging FEMA's determination
- Request the local community to pass an ordinance overriding the FEMA determination
- Apply for NFIP flood insurance at a reduced preferred risk rate
Correct answer: Submit additional supporting documentation or new scientific and technical data to request reconsideration
FEMA allows applicants to request reconsideration of a denied LOMA by providing additional scientific or technical data that supports the amendment request.
CFS FEMA Map Amendment & Revision Processes 1
What is the primary purpose of a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA)?