The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), working with the state of North Carolina, Union County, and the Town of Waxhaw, has released preliminary updates to official flood maps. This is part of a five year assessment and revision of existing floodplains.
These maps are not final. Property owners can review the draft changes and submit formal appeals or comments before adoption. The public appeal and comment period runs for 90 days, from Sept. 17 to Dec. 16, 2025.
How to Review Your Property
- Open the state Flood Risk Information System (FRIS)
- At the top left, change the map setting to Preliminary
- To compare changes, keep Preliminary selected, open Tools > Layers > Flood Risk Datasets, then check:
- Changes Since Last FIRM Floodway
- Changes Since Last FIRM Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA)
You can also review FEMA's revised Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) and Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report on the FEMA website.
What This Could Mean For You
A change into or out of a high-risk flood zone may affect lender flood-insurance requirements and future permitting.
If something appears incorrect, you may submit an appeal with supporting documentation such as a survey, elevation certificate, or engineer letter.
How to Appeal or Comment
Please contact Orion Holtey, PE, who is the Certified Floodplain Manager for the Town of Waxhaw. Orion will be able to assist you with questions you have about the preliminary Map or facilitate communications with FEMA representatives.
Visit the stormwater website for related resources and more information.
