AZ
LOMA and LOMR-F in Maricopa County, Arizona
Maricopa County encompasses the Phoenix metropolitan area in the Sonoran Desert, where flooding occurs primarily from monsoon thunderstorms that produce intense flash floods across alluvial fan surfaces and desert washes. The Salt River, normally dry, can experience major flooding during heavy winter storms and dam releases from upstream reservoirs. The county's extensive system of desert washes and alluvial fans creates deceptive flood hazards in areas that appear dry most of the year.
LOMA in Maricopa County
LOMAs are pursued in Maricopa County for properties near mapped wash and alluvial fan floodplains where engineered drainage improvements or natural terrain provides elevation above the base flood elevation. Properties in newer developments with engineered drainage are common candidates.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Maricopa County
LOMR-Fs are filed in Maricopa County for developments where engineered fill and drainage improvements raise structures above alluvial fan and wash floodplains. The county's active development generates significant LOMR-F demand.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Major cities
- • Phoenix
- • Mesa
- • Chandler
- • Scottsdale
- • Glendale
- • Tempe
Common flood zones
- • Zone AE
- • Zone A
- • Zone AO
- • Zone X
Frequently asked questions about Maricopa County
Can a property in Maricopa County qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes. Properties in Maricopa County that sit on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation may qualify for a LOMA. LOMAs are pursued in Maricopa County for properties near mapped wash and alluvial fan floodplains where engineered drainage improvements or natural terrain provides elevation above the base flood elevation. Properties in newer developments with engineered drainage are common candidates. A specialist review can confirm whether the property matches the LOMA pattern before you order new survey work.
When is a LOMR-F the right path in Maricopa County?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference at the property. LOMR-Fs are filed in Maricopa County for developments where engineered fill and drainage improvements raise structures above alluvial fan and wash floodplains. The county's active development generates significant LOMR-F demand. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
How long does a LOMA take in Maricopa County?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster eLOMA route. Most Maricopa County files move faster when the Elevation Certificate and FEMA correspondence are gathered before submission. A typical LOMA runs 6 to 12 weeks from document gathering through determination.
What does a LOMA cost in Maricopa County?
FEMA does not charge a filing fee for a LOMA. The primary costs are the Elevation Certificate and any professional preparation, which vary by surveyor rates in Arizona. Most homeowners spend several hundred to low four figures total.
Does a LOMA in Maricopa County remove flood insurance?
A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Arizona lenders and carriers still make their own underwriting decisions. Many homeowners keep voluntary coverage at significantly lower Preferred Risk rates.
Which cities in Maricopa County see the most LOMA activity?
LOMA and LOMR-F activity in Maricopa County is concentrated around Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler and surrounding areas. Common flood zones include Zone AE, Zone A, Zone AO.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Maricopa County?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all of Maricopa County, Arizona. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file or start a guided eligibility review online.
What documents should Maricopa County homeowners gather first?
Start with the property address, current flood zone or lender determination, any existing Elevation Certificate or survey, prior FEMA correspondence, and a lender or insurance notice if one triggered the review. Upload what you have and a specialist will identify the next step.
Reviewed by
FloodMapReview Engineering
Licensed P.E. and CFM team, FloodMapReview.com
FloodMapReview Engineering is a team of licensed Professional Engineers and Certified Floodplain Managers who have reviewed hundreds of LOMA, LOMR-F, eLOMA, and Online LOMC files across the United States. The team specializes in helping homeowners, buyers, lenders, and surveyors navigate the FEMA flood map amendment process. FloodMapReview engineers personally review every case for eligibility, ensure Elevation Certificates and supporting documents meet FEMA standards, and guide clients from initial assessment through final determination.