IL · Region 5
LOMA and LOMR-F in Illinois
Illinois flood activity is split between Mississippi and Illinois river systems and Chicago-area urban stormwater. Cook and DuPage counties generate a large share of LOMA requests tied to older subdivisions near mapped creeks.
LOMA in Illinois
Chicago-area LOMA files often involve structures on natural ground above urban creek corridors.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Illinois
LOMR-F cases appear when developers raised pads above the floodplain during construction.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Where activity concentrates
Major metros
- • Chicago
- • Aurora
- • Rockford
- • Joliet
Common counties
- • Cook County
- • DuPage County
- • Will County
- • Lake County
Illinois county guides
Licensing and documentation in Illinois
Illinois-licensed Professional Land Surveyors or Structural/Civil Professional Engineers must prepare elevation documents.
Frequently asked questions about Illinois
Can a property in Illinois qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes, many Illinois properties qualify when the structure or parcel sits on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation. Chicago-area LOMA files often involve structures on natural ground above urban creek corridors. 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 Illinois?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference. LOMR-F cases appear when developers raised pads above the floodplain during construction. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
Who can prepare an Elevation Certificate in Illinois?
Illinois-licensed Professional Land Surveyors or Structural/Civil Professional Engineers must prepare elevation documents. FloodMapReview.com can review an existing Elevation Certificate or connect you with a qualified professional if new survey work is needed.
Which Illinois counties see the most LOMA and LOMR-F activity?
Activity is concentrated in Cook County, DuPage County, Will County, Lake County, driven by riverine flooding and urban stormwater.
Does a LOMA in Illinois automatically remove flood insurance?
Not automatically. A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Illinois lenders and insurance carriers still make underwriting decisions. A Illinois homeowner may still choose to keep voluntary coverage.
How long does a Illinois LOMA typically take?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster professional-submitted eLOMA route. Most Illinois files move faster when the Elevation Certificate and FEMA correspondence are gathered before submission.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Illinois?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all Illinois counties, including Chicago, Aurora, Rockford and surrounding areas. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file.
What documents should Illinois 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.
