Floodproof Basement Requirements
The City of Fargo updated the Floodproof Construction Requirements in June 2025 to reflect the elimination of the 41-foot Water Surface Elevation Inundation Area. All structures within the FEMA 100-year (1% Annual Chance) floodplain and areas removed from the floodplain through a Letter of Map Revision via Fill (LOMR-F) are required to meet all floodproofing standards as outlined within Code of Ordinances Article 21-06 - Flood Plain Management and the updated Floodproof Construction Requirements. Furthermore, all structures not located in the FEMA 100-year floodplain are required to be elevated 2.5 feet above the curb adjacent to the property to mitigate the risk of localized street flooding.
Why build a floodproof basement?
- Lower flood insurance rating on standard policies
- Increased salability
- Peace of mind
- No floodproofed foundation has ever failed in Fargo
For all flood insurance questions call your insurance agent. For basement floodproofing requirements, contact the City of Fargo Inspections Department.