TX
LOMA and LOMR-F in Harris County, Texas
Harris County is one of the most flood-prone counties in the United States, with an extensive bayou network that drains through the Houston metropolitan area. Hurricane Harvey in 2017 dropped over 60 inches of rain in parts of the county, causing catastrophic flooding along Buffalo Bayou, Brays Bayou, and dozens of other waterways. The flat terrain and rapid urbanization have increased impervious cover, worsening stormwater runoff across all watersheds.
LOMA in Harris County
LOMAs are extremely common in Harris County due to frequent FEMA map updates and the large number of properties near bayou floodplains. Many homeowners near the margins of Zone AE and Zone X boundaries have successfully obtained LOMAs with elevation certificates.
Read the national LOMA page →LOMR-F in Harris County
LOMR-Fs are frequently filed in Harris County following fill placement for new development and home elevation projects. The Harris County Flood Control District maintains detailed floodplain data that supports LOMR-F applications.
Read the national LOMR-F page →Major cities
- • Houston
- • Pasadena
- • Baytown
- • Katy
- • Humble
- • Spring
Common flood zones
- • Zone A
- • Zone AE
- • Zone X
- • Zone AO
Frequently asked questions about Harris County
Can a property in Harris County qualify for a FEMA LOMA?
Yes. Properties in Harris County that sit on natural high ground above the Base Flood Elevation may qualify for a LOMA. LOMAs are extremely common in Harris County due to frequent FEMA map updates and the large number of properties near bayou floodplains. Many homeowners near the margins of Zone AE and Zone X boundaries have successfully obtained LOMAs with elevation certificates. 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 Harris County?
A LOMR-F applies when earthen fill created the elevation difference at the property. LOMR-Fs are frequently filed in Harris County following fill placement for new development and home elevation projects. The Harris County Flood Control District maintains detailed floodplain data that supports LOMR-F applications. If fill was used, packaging the file as a LOMA usually creates delay.
How long does a LOMA take in Harris County?
Timing depends on document readiness and whether the case qualifies for the faster eLOMA route. Most Harris 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 Harris 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 Texas. Most homeowners spend several hundred to low four figures total.
Does a LOMA in Harris County remove flood insurance?
A LOMA can change the federal mandatory-purchase requirement, but Texas lenders and carriers still make their own underwriting decisions. Many homeowners keep voluntary coverage at significantly lower Preferred Risk rates.
Which cities in Harris County see the most LOMA activity?
LOMA and LOMR-F activity in Harris County is concentrated around Houston, Pasadena, Baytown and surrounding areas. Common flood zones include Zone A, Zone AE, Zone X.
Can FloodMapReview.com help with a LOMA anywhere in Harris County?
Yes. We review LOMA and LOMR-F files across all of Harris County, Texas. Call (281) 870-4492 to talk through an urgent file or start a guided eligibility review online.
What documents should Harris 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.