NY
LOMA and LOMR-F in Queens County, New York
Queens County, coextensive with the Borough of Queens in New York City, faces flood risk from Jamaica Bay, Flushing Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean along the Rockaway Peninsula. Superstorm Sandy in 2012 devastated the Rockaways, Howard Beach, and Broad Channel with storm surge from Jamaica Bay and the Atlantic. Urban stormwater flooding during heavy rainfall is a persistent problem in the borough's densely developed neighborhoods, which have extensive impervious surfaces and aging combined sewer infrastructure.
LOMA in Queens County
LOMAs are pursued in Queens County for properties near Jamaica Bay, Flushing Creek, and other waterway floodplain edges where ground elevation exceeds the base flood elevation. Post-Sandy FEMA map updates have generated LOMA interest in inland neighborhoods.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Queens County
LOMR-Fs in Queens County are most applicable for waterfront redevelopment and post-Sandy reconstruction projects where engineered fill and flood-resistant design raise structures above the mapped floodplain.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Major cities
- • Queens
Common flood zones
- • Zone AE
- • Zone VE
- • Zone A
- • Zone X
Frequently asked questions about Queens County
Can a property in Queens County qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes. Properties in Queens County that sit on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation may qualify for a LOMA. LOMAs are pursued in Queens County for properties near Jamaica Bay, Flushing Creek, and other waterway floodplain edges where ground elevation exceeds the base flood elevation. Post-Sandy FEMA map updates have generated LOMA interest in inland neighborhoods. 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 Queens County?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference at the property. LOMR-Fs in Queens County are most applicable for waterfront redevelopment and post-Sandy reconstruction projects where engineered fill and flood-resistant design raise structures above the mapped floodplain. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
How long does a LOMA take in Queens County?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster eLOMA route. Most Queens 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 Queens 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 New York. Most homeowners spend several hundred to low four figures total.
Does a LOMA in Queens County remove flood insurance?
A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but New York lenders and carriers still make their own underwriting decisions. Many homeowners keep voluntary coverage at significantly lower Preferred Risk rates.
Which cities in Queens County see the most LOMA activity?
LOMA and LOMR-F activity in Queens County is concentrated around Queens. Common flood zones include Zone AE, Zone VE, Zone A.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Queens County?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all of Queens County, New York. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file or start a guided eligibility review online.
What documents should Queens 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.