Is Your Land Buildable? How to Check Flood Zones Before You Buy in Florida
I've sat across the table from too many families who just found out the land they bought can't be built on. They come to our first meeting excited to build, and we have to tell them it's flood zone or wetlands. Don't be next.
Check it yourself in 5 minutes, before you buy
Pull up your water management district's flood map online, or FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
Type in the parcel number or address.
Generate the report and look at the flood zone.
What the flood zone means for your build
Zone X: Best case. High and dry. Build like normal.
Zone A or AE: Buildable, but it'll cost you more. Expect requirements like a stem wall foundation, with your finished floor elevation and HVAC raised 36 inches above the surrounding grade. Exact rules vary by county.
Wetlands: In Florida, nearly impossible to build on. If the lot is mostly wetlands, walk away.
No seller or listing is going to point this out for you. Check it yourself. Already own land or have your eye on a lot in Alachua, Marion, Columbia, Bradford, Union or Gilchrist County? Send us your flood report and we'll tell you what it means for your build, no charge.
Call (352) 776-7188 for a free site walk on your land.
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