On Wednesday, May 29, the Federal Emergency Management Agency notified the City of Austin that it was upgrading the City’s score in the Community Rating System from a six to a five. This means that a 25 percent discount will be available for most flood insurance policies in Austin issued or renewed on or after October 1, 2024. Previously, the highest discount available to Austin residents was 20 percent.

The average annual flood insurance premium in Austin is $670. There are approximately 8,000 flood insurance policies currently in effect in Austin, providing coverage for $1.95 billion in potential losses. Flooding is not covered by homeowners or renters insurance. Austin recommends that homeowners, renters and businesses consider purchasing flood insurance. Talk to your insurance agent about different coverage options.

Austin is particularly vulnerable to flooding, and the City is in the middle of Flash Flood Alley. From large dam failures on the Colorado River in the early 1900s to more recent storms in 2013 and 2015, catastrophic flooding has killed and traumatized Austin residents throughout its history and destroyed personal and private property. This is why the City of Austin has made significant investments to reduce flood risk and increase the City’s resilience.

According to FEMA, the new flood insurance discounts are a tangible result of Austin’s flood mitigation activities to protect lives and reduce property damage. In making their determination, FEMA looked at a wide range of activities such as floodplain mapping, preserving open space, stormwater management and higher regulatory standards.

Federally-backed flood insurance is available to all Austin residents through the City’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program. Austin joined the program in 1974. FEMA requires participating communities to adopt and enforce a minimum set of floodplain regulations. In 1990, FEMA introduced the Community Rating System to recognize and encourage communities to go above and beyond the minimum standards. 

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About Watershed Protection 

The City of Austin Watershed Protection Department protects lives, property, and the environment of our community by reducing the impact of flooding, erosion, and water pollution. Visit AustinTexas.gov/Watershed to learn more.