Hazard Mitigation 

Assistance Guidance 

Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Pre-Disaster Mitigation 

Program, and Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 

February 27, 2015

Federal Emergency Management Agency 

Department of Homeland Security 

500 C Street, S.W. 

Washington, DC 20472 
Titles of Opportunities:

♦ Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)

♦ Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program

♦ Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program

Funding Opportunity Numbers:

The Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) numbers for the 

three Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) programs are:

♦ 97.039 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)

♦ 97.047 Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program

♦ 97.029 Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program

Federal Agency Name: 

U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) 

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 

Announcement Type:

Initial
STATEMENT FROM THE DEPUTY 

ASSOCIATE ADMINISTRATOR FOR 

MITIGATION

I recognize and embrace the opportunity to align our programs to the 2014–2018 FEMA 

Strategic Plan and Whole Community approach to resiliency. To achieve this aim, I am pleased 

to share with you the Fiscal Year 2015 (FY15) Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Guidance. 

This updated guidance is an essential instrument for our internal and external stakeholders. It 

carefully outlines strategies for the mitigation process by interpreting the Federal statutes, 

regulations, and best practices. This update is a collaborative effort of my staff, with input from 

external stakeholders. 

We revised the HMA Guidance with an eye toward creating more programmatic flexibility. 

Some of the major adjustments are: 

♦ Integrating climate change / resilience considerations

♦ Simplifying Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA) requirements (e.g., Hurricane Residential Wind

Retrofit BCA)

♦ Linking the implementation of disaster-resistant building codes to projects funded under the

Additional HMGP 5 Percent initiative

In addition to the changes listed above, we developed HMA Job Aids to enhance the fiscal 

processes and outreach materials for homeowners and federally-recognized tribes to better serve 

their needs. Lastly, we have incorporated provisions to promote accessibility as required by the 

Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. 

The FY15 HMA Guidance is the definitive policy document for the Federal Insurance and 

Mitigation Administration (FIMA) and it is my expectation that this document be treated as 

FIMA’s official position on HMA-related matters. 

The FY15 HMA Guidance will help move communities towards a more resilient future. Let us 

continue to work together to make the HMA programs the best they can be. 

Roy E. Wright

Deputy Associate Administrator for Mitigation

Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration
CONTENTS

Part I. Introduction ................................................................................................................. 1

A. HMA Commitment to Resilience and Climate Change Adaptation ................................... 2

B. Authorization and Appropriation ........................................................................................ 4

B.1 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program ..............................................................................4

B.2 Pre-Disaster Mitigation ..............................................................................................4

B.3 Flood Mitigation Assistance .......................................................................................5

C. Roles and Responsibilities .................................................................................................. 5

D. HMA Application Process .................................................................................................. 6

E. Organization of this Document ........................................................................................... 7

F. Programmatic Changes ....................................................................................................... 8

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements ........................................ 13

A. Mitigation Planning .......................................................................................................... 15

B. Climate Change and Resiliency Considerations ............................................................... 16

C. Universal Accessibility and Mitigation ............................................................................ 16

D. Technical Feasibility and Effectiveness............................................................................ 17

E. Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands ....................................................... 17

F. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Review and Compliance .................. 18

G. Cost-Effectiveness ............................................................................................................ 21

H. Cost Review ...................................................................................................................... 21

I. Project Development ......................................................................................................... 21

J. Section 404 and Section 406 ............................................................................................. 22

K. Advance Assistance .......................................................................................................... 22

L. Strategic Funds Management ............................................................................................ 23

M. Project Monitoring ............................................................................................................ 23

N. Closeout ............................................................................................................................ 24

Part III. Eligibility Information .............................................................................................. 25

A. Eligible Applicants............................................................................................................ 25

B. Eligible Subapplicants ...................................................................................................... 25

C. Cost Sharing ...................................................................................................................... 26

C.1 Federal Funds Allowed to Be Used as Non-Federal Cost Share ..............................28

C.2 Increased Cost of Compliance as Non-Federal Cost Share ......................................28

C.2.1 Steps for the Assignment of Coverage D – Increased Cost of 

Compliance Coverage ................................................................................. 29

D. Restrictions ....................................................................................................................... 30

i 
D.1 Non-discrimination Compliance ..............................................................................30

D.2 Conflict of Interest ...................................................................................................30

D.3 Procurement .............................................................................................................31

D.4 Duplication of Programs ..........................................................................................31

D.5 Duplication of Benefits ............................................................................................31

E. General Program Requirements........................................................................................ 32

E.1 Eligible Activities.....................................................................................................32

E.1.1 Mitigation Projects...................................................................................... 34

E.1.2 Ineligible Stand-Alone Activities................................................................ 38

E.1.3 Hazard Mitigation Planning ........................................................................ 39

E.1.4 Technical Assistance ................................................................................... 40

E.1.5 Management Costs...................................................................................... 41

E.2 Ineligible Activities..................................................................................................42

E.3 Cost-Effectiveness....................................................................................................44

E.4 Feasibility and Effectiveness....................................................................................44

E.5 Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement.......................................................................44

E.5.1 Applicant Mitigation Plan Requirement ..................................................... 45

E.5.2 Subapplicant Mitigation Plan Requirement ................................................ 45

E.5.3 Extraordinary Circumstances...................................................................... 45

E.5.4 Tribal Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement............................................... 46

E.5.5 Conformance with Hazard Mitigation Plans............................................... 47

E.6 Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Requirements..........................47

E.6.1 Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands................................. 48

E.7 National Flood Insurance Program Eligibility Requirements..................................49

E.7.1 Special Flood Hazard Area Requirements.................................................. 49

E.8 Statutory, Regulatory, and Other Requirements ......................................................50

Part IV. Application and Submission Information............................................................... 52

A. Address to Request Application Package ......................................................................... 52

B. Content and Form of Application ..................................................................................... 52

C. Submission Dates and Times............................................................................................ 53

D. Intergovernmental Review................................................................................................ 53

E. Funding Restrictions......................................................................................................... 53

E.1 HMGP Funding Restrictions....................................................................................53

E.2 PDM Funding Restrictions.......................................................................................54

E.3 FMA Funding Restrictions.......................................................................................54

E.4 Management Costs Funding Restrictions.................................................................54

F. Other Submission Requirements....................................................................................... 55

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F.1 Application Consideration under Multiple HMA Programs....................................55

F.2 Pre-award Costs........................................................................................................55

G. Applicant Guidance .......................................................................................................... 56

G.1 General Applicant Guidance ....................................................................................56

G.2 Minimum Eligibility Criteria ...................................................................................56

H. Scoping Narrative: Scope of Work, Schedule, and Cost Estimate ................................... 58

H.1 Required Components..............................................................................................58

H.2 Considerations for Management Costs ....................................................................60

H.2.1 Activities Description.................................................................................. 60

H.2.2 Personnel ..................................................................................................... 60

H.2.3 Cost Estimate............................................................................................... 60

H.3 Considerations for Planning Subapplications ..........................................................60

H.3.1 Activities Description.................................................................................. 60

H.3.2 Deliverables, Tasks, and Schedule.............................................................. 61

H.4 Considerations for Project Subapplications .............................................................63

H.4.1 Property Location........................................................................................ 63

H.4.2 Activities Description.................................................................................. 63

H.4.3 Cost Estimate............................................................................................... 64

I. Cost-Effectiveness ............................................................................................................ 64

I.1 Substantial Damage Waiver.....................................................................................65

I.2 Aggregation..............................................................................................................65

I.3 5 Percent Initiative ...................................................................................................65

I.4 Pre-calculated Benefits (Safe Rooms)......................................................................65

I.5 Greatest Savings to the Fund....................................................................................65

I.6 Environmental Benefits............................................................................................66

I.7 Pre-calculated Benefits for Acquisitions and Elevations in Special Flood 

Hazard Areas............................................................................................................66

I.8 Integrating Sea Level Rise in Mitigation .................................................................67

I.9 Landslide Property Acquisition................................................................................68

I.10 Pre-calculated Benefits for Residential Hurricane Wind Retrofit Measures ...........68

I.11 Alternative BCA Methodologies..............................................................................69

J. Feasibility and Effectiveness Documentation................................................................... 70

K. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Documentation ................................ 70

Part V. Application Review Information ............................................................................. 74

A. Review Criteria ................................................................................................................. 74

A.1 Application Eligibility Review.................................................................................74

A.2 Technical Review.....................................................................................................74

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A.2.1 Cost-Effectiveness Review ......................................................................... 74

A.2.2 Feasibility and Effectiveness Review ......................................................... 75

A.2.3 Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Review....................... 75

A.3 HMA Efficiencies ....................................................................................................75

A.3.1 Safe Room Projects..................................................................................... 76

A.3.2 Wind Retrofit Projects................................................................................. 76

A.3.3 Certain Flood Mitigation Projects............................................................... 76

B. Selection and Notification Process ................................................................................... 76

B.1 Selection ...................................................................................................................77

B.2 Notification...............................................................................................................77

B.3 Reconsideration Process...........................................................................................77

B.3.1 Consideration of Additional Information.................................................... 78

C. Requests for Information .................................................................................................. 78

C.1 Request for Information Timelines..........................................................................78

Part VI. Award Administration Information........................................................................ 81

A. Notice of Award................................................................................................................ 81

B. Risk Assessment Prior to PDM and FMA Award ............................................................ 82

C. Requirements for Pass-Through Entities.......................................................................... 82

C.1 Termination ..............................................................................................................83

C.1.1 Additional Specific Award Conditions or Terminations in the PDM 

and FMA Programs..................................................................................... 83

D. Administrative and National Policy Requirements........................................................... 84

D.1 Cost-Share Documentation ......................................................................................84

D.2 Scope of Work Changes...........................................................................................84

D.3 Budget Changes........................................................................................................85

D.3.1 Non-construction Projects........................................................................... 85

D.3.2 Construction Projects .................................................................................. 85

D.3.3 Cost Overruns and Underruns..................................................................... 85

D.3.4 Contingencies.............................................................................................. 85

D.4 Program Period of Performance...............................................................................86

D.4.1 Extensions ................................................................................................... 86

D.5 Requests for Advances and Reimbursements ..........................................................87

D.6 Program Income .......................................................................................................87

D.7 Federal Income Tax on Mitigation Project Funds....................................................87

D.8 Remedies for Noncompliance ..................................................................................88

D.9 Davis-Bacon Act ......................................................................................................88

E. Reporting Requirements ................................................................................................... 88

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E.1 Federal Financial Reports.........................................................................................89

E.2 Performance Reports................................................................................................89

E.3 Final Reports............................................................................................................90

F. Closeout ............................................................................................................................ 90

F.1 Subaward Closeout...................................................................................................90

F.1.1 Subrecipient Records Retention .................................................................. 91

F.2 Award Closeout........................................................................................................92

F.2.1 Recipient Records Retention....................................................................... 93

F.2.2 Update of Repetitive Loss Database ........................................................... 93

Part VII. FEMA Contacts......................................................................................................... 95

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance................................................................................. 96

A. Hazard Mitigation Grant Program .................................................................................... 96

A.1 Recipient Request for HMGP Funds........................................................................96

A.2 State Administrative Plan.........................................................................................96

A.2.1 Designation of Recipient and State Hazard Mitigation Officer .................. 97

A.2.2 Staffing Requirements and the Mitigation Team ........................................ 97

A.2.3 Procedures to Guide Implementation Activities ......................................... 98

A.2.4 Sliding Scale................................................................................................ 98

A.2.5 Management Costs...................................................................................... 99

A.2.6 Submission and Approval Deadlines .......................................................... 99

A.3 Program Administration by States ...........................................................................99

A.4 HMGP Funding ......................................................................................................100

A.5 HMGP Management Costs.....................................................................................102

A.6 Eligible Subapplicants............................................................................................104

A.7 Submission of HMGP Subapplications..................................................................104

A.8 Award Cost-Share Requirements...........................................................................104

A.9 Strategic Funds Management.................................................................................105

A.10 HMGP Disaster Spend Plan ...................................................................................106

A.11 Post-Disaster Code Enforcement Projects..............................................................106

A.12 Advance Assistance................................................................................................108

A.13 Phased Projects.......................................................................................................110

A.13.1 Pre-screening Process................................................................................ 110

A.13.2 Phase I Conditional Approval ................................................................... 111

A.13.3 Phase II Approval – Construction Process................................................ 111

A.14 The 5 Percent Initiative ..........................................................................................111

A.14.1 Availability of Additional Funds for Mitigation Activities ...................... 112

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A.15 Appeal Process .......................................................................................................113

B. Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program .................................................................................... 114

B.1 Allocation ...............................................................................................................114

B.2 Small Impoverished Communities .........................................................................114

B.3 Information Dissemination .....................................................................................114

B.4 Applicant Ranking of Subapplications ...................................................................115

B.5 Selection .................................................................................................................115

C. Flood Mitigation Assistance Program ............................................................................ 116

C.1 Eligible Properties ..................................................................................................116

C.2 Repetitive Loss Strategy .........................................................................................117

C.3 Cost Sharing ...........................................................................................................117

C.4 Applicant Ranking of Subapplications ...................................................................118

C.5 Selection .................................................................................................................118

C.6 Failure to Make Federal Award within 5 Years .....................................................118

Part IX. Appendices ............................................................................................................... 119

A. Acronyms ........................................................................................................................ 119

B. Glossary .......................................................................................................................... 122

C. Additional Resources ...................................................................................................... 133

D. Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance ......................................... 138

E. EHP Checklist ................................................................................................................. 146

F. Minimum Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications ............................................... 148

G. Minimum Criteria Checklist for Planning Subapplications ............................................ 151

List of Figures

Figure 1: Application Process ..........................................................................................................7

Figure 2: Overall Project Lifecycle................................................................................................13

Figure 3: General Steps in Project Scoping Process ......................................................................14

Figure 4: Frontloading EHP and the Formal Review Process .......................................................20

Figure 5: RFI Flowchart.................................................................................................................80

Figure 6: Award Process ................................................................................................................81

Figure 7: HMGP Ceiling Review Process ...................................................................................102

vi
List of Tables

Table 1: Eligible Subapplicants.....................................................................................................26

Table 2: Cost-Share Requirements ................................................................................................27

Table 3: Eligible Activities by Program ........................................................................................33

Table 4: Green Open Space and Riparian Benefits .......................................................................66

Table 5: Pre-determined Benefit Amounts for Wind Retrofit Projects .........................................69

Table 6: RFI Timelines..................................................................................................................79

Table 7: FEMA Regions................................................................................................................95

List of Textboxes

Whole Community...........................................................................................................................2

Universal Design............................................................................................................................16

Critical Action Definition ..............................................................................................................17

Examples of 404 and 406 Mitigation.............................................................................................22

Advance Assistance .......................................................................................................................22

Strategic Funds Management.........................................................................................................23

Private Nonprofit Definition..........................................................................................................25

Duplication of Benefits..................................................................................................................31

Generators......................................................................................................................................35

Mitigation Planning-Related Activities .........................................................................................39

Examples of Indirect Costs Categories..........................................................................................41

Practicable Alternatives Definition................................................................................................47

Decision-Making for Critical Action vs. Critical Facility .............................................................48

Federal Laws Prohibiting Discrimination in Emergency Programs on the Basis of 

Disability ........................................................................................................................50

Maximum Amounts of FMA Mitigation Planning Grant..............................................................54

Minimum Eligibility Requirements...............................................................................................56

Examples of Direct Cost Categories..............................................................................................64

Inclusion of Environmental Benefits into the BCA Toolkit..........................................................66

Integrating Sea Level Rise in Mitigation.......................................................................................67

Immediate Threat...........................................................................................................................68

Pre-determined Benefits for Wind Retrofits..................................................................................69

HMA Efficiencies..........................................................................................................................75

Request for Information.................................................................................................................78

Scope Change.................................................................................................................................84

Budget Change...............................................................................................................................85

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Tribal HMGP Presidential Major Disaster Declaration Request ...................................................96

The HMGP Final Lock-In ............................................................................................................100

Strategic Funds Management, Phased Projects, Pre-award Costs, and Advance 

Assistance .....................................................................................................................105

HMGP Fiscal Processes ...............................................................................................................106

Extraordinary Post-disaster Code Enforcement Costs .................................................................106

Advance Assistance .....................................................................................................................108

Additional 5 Percent Intiative Funding ........................................................................................112

viii
PART I. INTRODUCTION

Part I of the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Guidance introduces the three HMA 

programs, identifies roles and responsibilities, and outlines the organization of the document. 

This guidance applies to Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) disasters declared on or 

after the date of publication unless indicated otherwise. This guidance is also applicable to the 

Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) and Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Programs; the 

application cycles are announced via http://www.grants.gov/. The guidance in this document is 

subject to change based on new laws or regulations enacted after publication. For additional 

information, contact the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). 

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) FEMA HMA programs present a critical 

opportunity to reduce the risk to individuals and property from natural hazards, while 

simultaneously reducing reliance on Federal disaster funds. On March 30, 2011, the President 

signed Presidential Policy Directive 8 (PPD-8): National Preparedness, and the National 

Mitigation Framework was finalized in May 2013. The National Mitigation Framework 

comprises seven core capabilities, including: 

♦ Threats and Hazard Identification

♦ Risk and Disaster Resilience Assessment

♦ Planning

♦ Community Resilience

♦ Public Information and Warning

♦ Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction

♦ Operational Coordination

HMA programs provide funding for eligible activities that are consistent with the National 

Mitigation Framework’s Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction capability. HMA programs reduce 

community vulnerability to disasters and their effects, promote individual and community safety 

and resilience, and promote community vitality after an incident. Furthermore, HMA programs 

reduce response and recovery resource requirements in the wake of a disaster or incident, which 

results in a safer community that is less reliant on external financial assistance. 

Hazard mitigation is defined as any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk 

to people and property from natural hazards and their effects. This definition distinguishes 

actions that have a long-term impact from those that are more closely associated with immediate 

preparedness, response, and recovery activities. Hazard mitigation is the only phase of 

emergency management specifically dedicated to breaking the cycle of damage, reconstruction, 

and repeated damage. Accordingly, States, territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local 

Part I. Introduction 1
communities are encouraged to take advantage of funding that HMA programs provide in both 

the pre- and post-disaster timelines.

In addition to hazard mitigation, FEMA’s Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP)

Program provides communities with education, risk communication, and outreach to better 

protect its citizens. The Risk MAP project lifecycle places a strong emphasis on community 

engagement and partnerships to ensure a whole 

community approach that reduces flood risk and 

builds more resilient communities. Risk MAP risk 

assessment information strengthens a local 

community’s ability to make better and more 

informed decisions. Risk MAP allows 

communities to better invest and determine 

priorities for projects funded under HMA. These 

investments support mitigation efforts under HMA 

that protect life and property and build more 

resilient communities. 

Part I. Introduction 2

The whole community includes children, 

individuals with disabilities, and others with 

access and functional needs; those from 

religious, racial, and ethnically diverse 

backgrounds; and people with limited 

English proficiency. Their contributions 

must be integrated into mitigation/resilience

efforts, and their needs must be 

incorporated as the whole community plans 

and executes its core capabilities. 

WHOLE COMMUNITY 

A. HMA Commitment to Resilience and Climate Change 

Adaptation

FEMA is committed to promoting resilience as expressed in PPD-8: National Preparedness; the 

President’s State, Local, and Tribal Leaders Task Force on Climate Preparedness and Resilience; 

the Administrator’s 2011 FEMA Climate Change Adaptation Policy Statement (Administrator 

Policy 2011-OPPA-01); and the 2014–2018 FEMA Strategic Plan. Resilience refers to the 

ability to adapt to changing conditions and withstand and rapidly recover from disruption due to 

emergencies. The concept of resilience is closely related to the concept of hazard mitigation, 

which reduces or eliminates potential losses by breaking the cycle of damage, reconstruction, 

and repeated damage. Mitigation capabilities include, but are not limited to, community-wide 

risk reduction projects, efforts to improve the resilience of critical infrastructure and key resource 

lifelines, risk reduction for specific vulnerabilities from natural hazards and climate change, and 

initiatives to reduce future risks after a disaster has occurred. 

FEMA is supporting efforts to streamline the HMA programs so that these programs can better 

respond to the needs of communities nationwide that are addressing the impacts of climate 

change. FEMA, through its HMA programs: 

♦ Develops and encourages adoption of resilience standards in the siting and design of

buildings and infrastructure

♦ Modernizes and elevates the importance of hazard mitigation

FEMA has issued several policies that facilitate the mitigation of adverse effects from climate 

change on the built environment, structures and infrastructure. Consistent with the 2014–2018 
FEMA Strategic Plan, steps are being taken by communities through engagement of individuals, 

households, local leaders, representatives of local organizations, and private sector employers 

and through existing community networks to protect themselves and the environment by 

updating building codes, encouraging the conservation of natural and beneficial functions of the 

floodplain, investing in more resilient infrastructure, and engaging in mitigation planning. 

FEMA plays an important role in supporting community-based resilience efforts, establishing 

policies, and providing guidance to promote mitigation options that protect critical infrastructure 

and public resources. 

FEMA encourages better integration of Sections 404 and 406 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster 

Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended (Stafford Act), Title 42 of the United States 

Code (U.S.C.) 5121 et seq., to promote more resilience during the recovery and mitigation 

process. FEMA regulations that implement Sections 404 and 406 of the Stafford Act allow 

funding to incorporate mitigation measures during recovery activities. Program guidance and 

practice limits Section 406 mitigation to the damaged elements of a structure. This limitation to 

Section 406 mitigation may not allow for a comprehensive mitigation solution for the damaged 

facility; however, Section 404 funds may be used to mitigate the undamaged portions of a 

facility.

Recognizing that the risk of disaster is increasing as a result of multiple factors, including the 

growth of population in and near high-risk areas, aging infrastructure, and climate change, 

FEMA promotes climate change adaptation by: 

♦ Incorporating sea level rise in the calculation of Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA)

♦ Publishing a new HMA Job Aid on pre-calculated benefits for hurricane wind retrofit

measures, see HMA Job Aid (Cost Effectiveness Determination for Residential Hurricane

Wind Retrofit Measures Funded by FEMA)

♦ Encouraging floodplain and wetland conservation associated with the acquisition of

properties in green open space and riparian areas

♦ Reducing wildfire risks

♦ Preparing for evolving flood risk

♦ Encouraging mitigation planning and developing mitigation strategies that encourage

community resilience and smart growth

♦ Encouraging the use of building codes and standards (the American Society of Civil

Engineers/Structural Engineering Institute [ASCE/SEI] 24-14, Flood Resistant Design and

Construction) wherever possible

For additional information, see http://www.fema.gov/climate-change. 

Part I. Introduction 3
B. Authorization and Appropriation

This section discusses the authorization and appropriation of funding for each of the HMA 

programs. Together, these programs provide significant opportunities to reduce or eliminate 

potential losses to State, territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local assets through hazard 

mitigation planning and project grant funding. Each HMA program was authorized by separate 

legislative action, and as such, each program differs slightly in scope and intent. More 

information about each of the HMA programs can be found on the FEMA HMA website at 

https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance. 

B.1 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

HMGP is authorized by Section 404 of the Stafford Act, 42 U.S.C. 5170c. The key purpose of 

HMGP is to ensure that the opportunity to take critical mitigation measures to reduce the risk of 

loss of life and property from future disasters is not lost during the reconstruction process 

following a disaster. 

HMGP funding is available, when authorized under a Presidential major disaster declaration, in 

the areas of the State requested by the Governor. Federally-recognized tribes may also submit a 

request for a Presidential major disaster declaration within their impacted areas (see 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/85146). The amount of HMGP funding 

available to the Applicant is based on the estimated total Federal assistance, subject to the sliding 

scale formula outlined in Title 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Section 206.432(b) 

that FEMA provides for disaster recovery under Presidential major disaster declarations. The 

formula provides for up to 15 percent of the first $2 billion of estimated aggregate amounts of 

disaster assistance, up to 10 percent for amounts between $2 billion and $10 billion, and up to 

7.5 percent for amounts between $10 billion and $35.333 billion. For States with enhanced 

plans, the eligible assistance is up to 20 percent for estimated aggregate amounts of disaster 

assistance not to exceed $35.333 billion. 

The Period of Performance (POP) for HMGP begins with the opening of the application period 

and ends no later than 36 months from the close of the application period. 

For additional HMGP Guidance, see Part VIII, A. 

B.2 Pre-Disaster Mitigation

PDM is authorized by the Stafford Act, 42 U.S.C. 5133. PDM is designed to assist States, 

territories, federally-recognized tribes, and local communities to implement a sustained predisaster natural hazard mitigation program to reduce overall risk to the population and structures 

from future hazard events, while also reducing reliance on Federal funding in future disasters. 

Congressional appropriations provide the funding for PDM. 

Part I. Introduction 4
The total amount of funds distributed for PDM is determined once the appropriation is provided 

for a given fiscal year. It can be used for mitigation projects and planning activities. 

The POP for PDM begins with the opening of the application period and ends no later than 36 

months from the date of subapplication selection. 

For additional PDM Guidance, see Part VIII, B.

B.3 Flood Mitigation Assistance

FMA is authorized by Section 1366 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended 

(NFIA), 42 U.S.C. 4104c, with the goal of reducing or eliminating claims under the National 

Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FMA was created as part of the National Flood Insurance 

Reform Act (NFIRA) of 1994. The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (Public 

Law 112-141) consolidated the Repetitive Flood Claims and Severe Repetitive Loss grant 

programs into FMA. FMA funding is available through the National Flood Insurance Fund 

(NFIF) for flood hazard mitigation projects as well as plan development and is appropriated by 

Congress. States, territories, and federally-recognized tribes are eligible to apply for FMA

funds. Local governments are considered subapplicants and must apply to their Applicant State, 

territory, or federally-recognized tribe. 

The POP for FMA begins with the opening of the application period and ends no later than 36 

months from the date of subapplication selection. 

For additional FMA Guidance, see Part VIII, C. 

C. Roles and Responsibilities

States, territories, and federally-recognized tribes are eligible Applicants for HMA programs. 

The Applicant is responsible for soliciting subapplications from eligible subapplicants and

assisting in the preparation of, reviewing, and submitting eligible, complete applications to 

FEMA. HMA grant funds are awarded to Applicants. When funding is awarded, the Applicant 

then becomes both the Recipient (formerly known as Grantee) and the pass-through entity

(defined as a non-Federal entity that provides a subaward to a subrecipient to carry out part of a 

Federal program). A Recipient receives a Federal award directly from FEMA to carry out an 

activity under an HMA program. A pass-through entity provides a subaward to a subrecipient. 

Pass-through entities are accountable for the use of the funds, responsible for administering the 

grant, and responsible for complying with program requirements and other applicable Federal, 

State, territorial, and tribal laws and regulations. The pass-through entity is also responsible for 

financial management of the program and overseeing all approved projects. 

Subapplicants play a crucial role in the grant process. In general, the “subapplicant” is a Statelevel agency, federally-recognized tribe, local government, or other eligible entity that submits a 

subapplication for FEMA assistance to the Applicant. If HMA funding is awarded, the 

Part I. Introduction 5
subapplicant becomes the subrecipient (formerly known as subgrantee) and is responsible for 

managing the subaward (formerly known as subgrant) and complying with program 

requirements and other applicable Federal, State, territorial, tribal, and local laws and 

regulations. A federally-recognized tribe may participate as either the Applicant/Recipient/passthrough entity or the subapplicant/subrecipient (see Part III, A and B and HMA Job Aid, 

Federally-Recognized Tribes and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – Option to Submit as an 

Applicant or Subapplicant). 

D. HMA Application Process

Applicants determine mitigation priorities. These priorities are broad strategies that mitigate 

natural threats in their respective jurisdictions. Contacting the State Hazard Mitigation Officer 

(SHMO), or equivalent representative for a respective federally-recognized tribe or territory, can 

be helpful in choosing which hazards pose the greatest threat and determining the best strategy 

for mitigation. From these broad mitigation strategies, subapplicants weigh public interest while 

targeting specific mitigation projects beneficial to their communities. 

The next step is assembling the subapplication. The principle components of a subapplication 

are the Scope of Work (SOW), budget, and schedule. These pieces are developed by the 

subapplicant through construction estimates, property appraisals, and other technical evaluations. 

For additional assistance on the application and submission processes, see Part IV. 

Once the subapplication is prepared, it is submitted to the Applicant. In many cases, the 

Applicant is the State government, federally-recognized tribe, or U.S. territory. Once the 

subapplications are collected, the Applicant reviews and prioritizes submissions based on 

specific criteria that align with its mitigation strategy with regards to available funding and 

project type. Finally, the application is submitted to FEMA for determination of eligibility based 

on cost-effectiveness, technical feasibility, mitigation planning, and environmental planning and 

historic preservation (EHP) considerations (see Figure 1). FEMA may send the Applicant a 

request for information (RFI). An RFI is often used to help clarify and strengthen the 

subapplication. 

For additional eligibility information, see Part III.

Part I. Introduction 6
Figure 1: Application Process

E. Organization of this Document

This guidance consolidates the common requirements for all HMA programs and explains the 

unique elements of the programs in individual sections. Additionally, it provides information for 

Federal, State, territory, federally-recognized tribes, and local officials on how to apply for HMA 

funding for a proposed mitigation activity. 

The organization of this HMA Guidance provides clarity and ease of use by presenting 

information common to all programs in general order of the grant life cycle. As a result, closely 

related topics may be presented in different sections of the guidance. This guidance is organized 

in the following manner: 

♦ Part I, Introduction, describes the HMA programs, discusses FEMA’s commitment to 

resilience and climate change adaptation, identifies roles and responsibilities, explains the 

overall application process, and provides a summary of programmatic changes. 

♦ Part II, Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements, provides general information 

to facilitate project scoping and the overall decision-making process. 

♦ Part III, Eligibility Information, provides information about eligible Applicants and 

subapplicants, cost-sharing requirements, restrictions on the use of HMA funds, and other 

program requirements. 

Part I. Introduction 7
♦ Part IV, Application and Submission Information, provides information regarding application

development, including funding restrictions, cost-effectiveness analysis, feasibility and

effectiveness, and environmental requirements.

♦ Part V, Application Review Information, summarizes the FEMA review and selection

process.

♦ Part VI, Award Administration Information, highlights grants management requirements from

the time an award is made through closeout.

♦ Part VII, FEMA Contacts, provides Regional and State contact information.

♦ Part VIII, Additional Program Guidance, provides information that is unique to each

program.

♦ Part IX, Appendices, includes acronyms, a glossary, additional resources, referenced

regulations and statutes, and checklists.

Additional guidance for particular activity types is provided in an Addendum to this guidance. 

This additional guidance provides information specific to property acquisition and structure 

demolition or relocation, wildfire mitigation, safe room construction, mitigation reconstruction, 

and structure elevation projects. The Addendum also includes supplemental guidance on the 

eligibility of flood risk reduction projects, Duplication of Programs (DOP) considerations, and 

the use of ASCE 24-14 as a minimum design requirement for certain flood risk reduction 

activities.

F. Programmatic Changes

With the release of this guidance, significant revisions to programmatic requirements have been 

made. However, many of the specific requirements of each program remain the same. The 

significant changes included in this HMA Guidance are as follows: 

♦ On December 26, 2014, DHS adopted, in its entirety the “Uniform Administrative

Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal Awards (2 CFR Part 200)

at 2 CFR Part 3002, 79 Fed. Reg. 75871, No. 244 (Dec. 19, 2014), which supersedes and

streamlines requirements from OMB Circulars A-21, A-87, A-110, and A-122 (which have

been placed in OMB guidance, including 2 CFR Parts 215, 220, 225, and 230); OMB

Circulars A-89, A-102 (codified at 44 CFR Part 13), and A-133; and the guidance in Circular

A-50 on Single Audit Act follow-up. At the same time, FEMA removed 44 CFR Part 13

from the Code of Federal Regulations.

− 2 CFR Part 200 applies to all PDM and FMA awards made on or after December 26, 

2014 and to all HMGP awards made under emergency or Presidential major disaster 

declarations declared on or after December 26, 2014. 

Part I. Introduction 8
− The superseded OMB Circulars and guidance, including 44 CFR Part 13, will continue 

to apply to all PDM and FMA awards made prior to December 26, 2014 or HMGP 

awards made under emergency or Presidential major disaster declarations declared 

before December 26, 2014. These HMA awards must comply with 44 CFR Part 13, 

per the terms of 2 CFR Part 200. 

− The Audit requirements found at 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart F will apply to all Single 

Audit Act audits performed for any recipient or subrecipient for fiscal years beginning 

on or after December 26, 2014. This includes audits performed under awards issued 

prior to December 26, 2014, such as existing awards issued under previous HMA 

guidance.

− 2 CFR Part 200 makes several changes to the previous OMB Circulars, many of which 

are reflected throughout this HMA guidance. Of particular note, are terminology 

changes and new definitions: conflict of interest policy, procurement changes, and 

additional authorities regarding specific conditions and termination. 

♦ The POP for the PDM and FMA programs now begins with the opening of the application 

period and ends no later than 36 months from the date of subapplication selection. (Part I, 

B.2 and B.3 and Part VI, D.4) 

♦ FEMA encourages Applicants and subapplicants to expand their mitigation activities beyond 

the prescribed activities in Part III Section E of the HMA Guidance to reflect considerations 

stemming from climate change and resilience. (Part II, B and Part IV, I.8) 

♦ An explanation of critical actions, along with examples, has been provided. The description 

of critical action is consistent with the 44 CFR Section 9.4. (Part II, E and Part III, E.6.1) 

♦ EHP frontloading activities are further defined and an NEPA Flowchart for HMA Projects

has been added as an HMA Job Aid. (Part II, F)

♦ FEMA’s usage of the terms “other Federal agencies” or “agencies with delegated Federal 

authority” in EHP compliance documentation is clarified, and the Unified Federal Review 

initiative is introduced. (Part II, F and Part IV, K) 

♦ Strategic Funds Management (SFM) has been clarified (Part II, L and Part VIII, A.9), and an 

SFM Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document has been added to the FEMA website. 

(HMA Job Aids)

♦ Changes to the HMGP Quarterly Progress Report (QPR) have been incorporated; hard 

copies are no longer accepted for HMGP. Recipients are responsible for updating reports in 

the National Emergency Management Information System (NEMIS) directly using the new 

QPR module or by importing a pre-approved excel spreadsheet. (Part II, M and Part VI, E) 

♦ FEMA clarified the requirements that need to be verified by the Recipient at closeout. (Part 

II, N and Part VI, F) 

Part I. Introduction 9
♦ Eligibility of Flood Risk Reduction Measures under the Hazard Mitigation Assistance

Programs, published June 27, 2014, which includes new language on DOP, has been

incorporated into this guidance. (Part III, D.4 and E.1 and Addendum, Part F.1)

− Localized flood control projects are now eligible under all three HMA programs. 

− Non-localized flood control projects are only eligible under HMGP and PDM. 

♦ Mitigation reconstruction is now an eligible activity under all HMA programs. (Part III, E.1

and Addendum D.2)

♦ A “Miscellaneous/Other” category has been incorporated under Eligible Activities to address

considerations of unique activity types (e.g., drought mitigation projects). (Part III, E.1)

♦ Per the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA), FEMA HMA programs may fund projects in

Otherwise Protected Areas (OPAs) if they do not require flood insurance after project

completion. (Part III, E.2 and Addendum, Part A.2)

♦ Eligible activities that can be funded under mitigation planning–related activities are clarified

as specific to HMGP only; these activities are not eligible as stand-alone activities under

PDM and FMA. (Part III, E.1)

♦ Accessibility considerations as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 have

been incorporated. (Part III, E.8 and Addendum C.4.2)

♦ The Substantial Damage waiver has been amended to allow for the consideration of

Substantial Damage from any origin. (Part IV, I.1)

♦ Cost Effectiveness Determinations for Acquisitions and Elevations in Special Flood Hazard

Areas, published August 15, 2013, has been incorporated into this guidance. (Part IV, I.7)

♦ An HMA memorandum on Sea Level Rise, published on December 23, 2013, has been

incorporated into this guidance. (Part IV, I.8)

♦ A new, expedited methodology has been developed for residential hurricane wind retrofit

projects. If a proposed wind retrofit project costs less than the pre-identified benefits, the

project will be considered cost effective. (Part IV, I.10)

♦ Examples of EHP-related costs that should be included in project cost estimates have been

listed. (Part IV, H.4.3 and Part IV, K)

♦ Roles and responsibilities of FEMA and the Applicant have been further defined as they

relate to the formal EHP review process. (Part IV, K)

♦ The RFI flow chart has been modified to better reflect the RFI process. (Part V, C)

♦ Substantive changes have been made to the hazard mitigation plan requirements (Part III,

E.5):

− Plan requirements have been clarified for Applicants and subapplicants. 

Part I. Introduction 10
− Private Nonprofits (PNPs) are not required to have a FEMA-approved mitigation plan 

to receive HMGP funding. 

− Language has been clarified for extraordinary circumstances. 

− Language to clarify conformance with hazard mitigation plans (statewide projects) has 

been added. 

− States are now required to update their mitigation plans every 5 years, not every 3 

years. This change is explained in detail in the Federal Register at 79 FR 22873. 

♦ There are limited instances where contingency costs can be considered for eligibility under

HMA. A contingency cost is an allowance in the total cost estimate to cover situations that

cannot be fully defined at the time the cost estimate is prepared. The total project cost,

including contingencies, is used to compute the BCA. (Part VI, D.3.4)

♦ At the request of the Recipient, FEMA may now conduct a review of the HMGP lock-in

ceiling as early as 12 months, rather than 18 months, after a disaster. (Part VIII, A.4 and A.5)

♦ A flow chart has been added to the HMGP final lock-in section to clarify that process.

(Figure 7, Part VIII, A.4)

♦ FEMA describes the importance of accurate budgeting and forecasting in the Spend Plan for

HMGP disasters declared after October 30, 2013. (Part VIII, A.10)

♦ The additional 5 percent set-aside for tornadoes and high winds has been modified to address

all hazards and to promote resilience through the use of disaster-resistant building codes.

(Part VIII, A.14.1)

♦ The HMGP Appeals process has been clarified. (Part VIII, A.15)

♦ Definitions for repetitive loss and severe repetitive loss have been clarified. (Part VIII, C.1)

♦ FEMA clarified that building and contents are eligible as part of the insurance claim payment

coverage for determining whether a property is a severe repetitive loss property. (Part VIII,

C.1)

♦ FEMA clarified the use of Greatest Savings to The Fund (GSTF), referring to the NFIF. (Part

VIII, C.3)

♦ Critical facility is further defined under HMA and is included in the glossary. This definition

is for HMA program use and clarification and is not meant to provide a definition for use

under other programs or supersede any FEMA regulation. (Part IX, B)

♦ The Eligibility and Completeness checklist has been modified and renamed as the Minimum

Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications (in Appendix F). It now focuses on the

minimal eligibility factors needed to initiate FEMA review and determine eligibility.

Part I. Introduction 11
♦ Limits on Subsurface Uses of Hazard Mitigation Assistance Acquired Lands, published May 

5, 2014, has been incorporated into this guidance. With the release of this guidance, the 

policy has been superseded. (Addendum, Part A.2, A.4.4, and A.6.2)

− Generally, FEMA will not approve property acquisition for open space projects 

involving properties with underground oil, gas, or other mineral encumbrances that 

may allow subsurface hydraulic fracturing and horizontal directional drilling to occur. 

♦ In accordance with Section 203(a)(1) of the Uniform Relocation Assistance (URA) and Real 

Property Acquisition Policies Act, the replacement housing allowance for homeowners 

increased to $31,000 on October 1, 2014. (Addendum, Parts A.3.2, A.6.9.4, and A.6.10).

♦ The URA amount for rental assistance has also increased from $5,250 to $7,200. 

(Addendum, Part A.6.10)

♦ Safe Room Guidance has been updated to align with changes to FEMA P-361, Safe Rooms 

for Tornadoes and Hurricanes: Guidance for Community and Residential Safe Rooms (3rd 

Edition, 2015). (Addendum, Part C)

♦ Minimum Design Standards for Hazard Mitigation Assistance Projects in Flood Hazard 

Areas, published April 21, 2014, which adopts ASCE 24-14 as the minimum design criteria 

for all HMA structure elevation, dry floodproofing, and mitigation reconstruction projects in 

flood hazard areas, has been incorporated into this guidance. With the release of this 

guidance, the policy has been superseded. (Addendum, Part F.3) 

Part I. Introduction 12
PART II. FRONTLOADING HMA PROGRAM 

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

FEMA encourages Applicants and subapplicants to evaluate risks that they mitigate in a 

comprehensive manner. They should identify hazards and assess risk to develop wide-ranging 

hazard mitigation measures. These measures should reflect the minimum program eligibility 

requirements but also should incorporate other key considerations, such as mitigation planning, 

universal design to address the needs of persons with disabilities, EHP, and resilience. 

Considering a wide array of factors in project scoping and development at the earliest time in the 

HMA application cycle allows the Applicant and subapplicant the best possible opportunity to 

develop viable project and plan applications and will expedite FEMA review. 

Part II provides general information on the importance of “frontloading” HMA program 

eligibility requirements in the project scoping and the overall decision-making process. 

Frontloading or addressing requirements at the earliest point in the decision-making process will 

increase the efficacy of the overall HMA program. It also reduces the need for RFIs, which may 

result in quicker selections of projects for further review or approval. Additionally, early 

consideration of Advance Assistance, SFM, project monitoring, and project closeout in the 

decision-making process can facilitate the scoping and development of viable projects that meet 

the needs and fit the circumstances of a particular community. Project scoping and project 

development are two of the earliest steps in the overall project lifecycle (see Figure 2) and can 

have a significant impact on the course an application or subapplication takes through the HMA 

grant process. 

Figure 2: Overall Project Lifecycle

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 13
Project scoping (as shown in Figure 3) is the process by which subapplicants develop effective 

mitigation alternatives based on a defined set of requirements that meet the stated purpose and 

need of the proposed project. Subapplicants should begin by identifying risks or problems and 

examining alternative solutions during the mitigation planning process. It is important to 

propose a project that will alleviate a problem. Additionally, the community may realize further 

benefits, such as enhanced efficiency and accessibility, if the proposed project incorporates 

resilience. Applicants are encouraged to include representatives of the whole community in 

planning and scoping the project to gain broad community participation and support. Building 

on existing community networks can be critical for generating broad support for mitigation 

projects.

Figure 3: General Steps in Project Scoping Process

The scoping process includes the identification and evaluation of technical feasibility, cost 

review, cost-effectiveness, as well as environmental and cultural resource considerations. Based 

on potential impacts to environmental and cultural resources, there may be a legal requirement to 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 14
alter the project. The scoping process results in the development of a preferred project 

alternative that is then documented through the preparation of the application or subapplication. 

Applicants and subapplicants should consider the whole range of program requirements at the 

beginning stages of project development. The incorporation of these considerations into the 

scoping process can increase the efficiency of program review and ensure that all HMA program 

requirements are met.

Addressing the following HMA program requirements at the earliest stage possible in the 

decision-making process is important because it can lead to enhanced project scoping as well as 

development and prevent delays later:

♦ Mitigation planning

♦ Technical feasibility and effectiveness

♦ Floodplain management and protection of wetlands

♦ EHP review and compliance

♦ Cost-effectiveness

♦ Cost review

A. Mitigation Planning

Reviewing and incorporating information from the State, tribal, or local mitigation plan can help 

an Applicant or subapplicant facilitate the development of mitigation project alternatives. 

Linking the existing mitigation plan to project scoping can support the Applicant and 

subapplicant in selecting the most appropriate mitigation activity that best addresses the 

identified hazard(s), while taking into account community priorities, climate change, and 

resiliency. In particular, the mitigation strategy section of the plan identifies a range of specific 

mitigation activities that can reduce vulnerability and includes information on the process that 

was used to identify, prioritize, and implement the range of mitigation actions considered. 

Another resource that may be useful in developing mitigation alternatives is the Mitigation 

Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards guide available from the FEMA Library 

(see http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6938). It is important to reference the 

mitigation plan as potential project alternatives may have been considered during the planning 

process. If the project alternatives were not considered during the mitigation planning process, 

they should be considered in the next mitigation plan update. For more information on hazard 

mitigation planning, see eligible activities in Part III, E.5, cost estimate information in Part IV, 

H.4.3, and additional resources in Part IX, C.

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 15
B. Climate Change and Resiliency Considerations

FEMA is committed to promoting resilience as expressed in PPD-8: National Preparedness; the 

President’s State, Local, and Tribal Leaders Task Force on Climate Preparedness and Resilience; 

the Administrator’s 2011 FEMA Climate Change Adaptation Policy Statement (Administrator 

Policy 2011-OPPA-01); and the 2014–2018 FEMA Strategic Plan. FEMA recognizes challenges 

posed by climate change, including more intense storms, frequent heavy precipitation, heat 

waves, drought, extreme flooding, and higher sea levels. These phenomena may have impacts 

on mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery operations as well as the resiliency of 

critical infrastructure and various emergency assets. FEMA encourages Recipients and 

subrecipients to consider climate change adaptation and resiliency in their planning and scoping 

efforts. 

To aid in these efforts, FEMA incorporated sea level rise into the HMA BCA tool. Additionally, 

the EHP review process promotes informed decision-making and uses all practical means and 

measures to protect, restore, and enhance the quality of the environment, to avoid or minimize 

adverse impacts to the environment, and to attain the objectives of: 

♦ Achieving mitigation goals without degradation or undesirable and unintended consequences

♦ Preserving historic, cultural, and natural aspects of national heritage and maintaining,

wherever possible, an environment that supports diversity and variety of individual choice

♦ Achieving a balance between resource use and development within the sustained carrying

capacity of the ecosystem involved

♦ Enhancing the quality of renewable resources and working toward the maximum attainable

recycling of non-renewable resources

C. Universal Accessibility and Mitigation

FEMA is committed to achieving universally 

accessible and fully inclusive emergency 

management. Considerations for individuals with 

disabilities and people with access and functional 

needs should be contemplated as part of holistic 

community-based mitigation. With respect to 

HMA, this requires active engagement in meeting the access and functional needs of individuals 

as applications are scoped and developed. As appropriate, factors for universal design should be 

incorporated into HMA projects to serve the whole community to the greatest extent possible. 

When communities integrate the access and functional needs of their entire populations in all 

phases of community-wide emergency management, they strengthen their ability to prepare for, 

protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards. 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 16

UNIVERSAL DESIGN

Universal design is the design of products and 

environments to be usable by all people, to 

the greatest extent possible, without the need 

for adaptation or specialized design.
D. Technical Feasibility and Effectiveness 

Mitigation projects submitted for HMA grants must be both feasible and effective at mitigating 

the risks of the hazard for which the projects were designed. The feasibility of a project is 

demonstrated through conformance with accepted engineering practices, established codes, 

standards, modeling techniques, or best practices. Effective mitigation measures funded under 

HMA should provide a long-term or permanent solution. Consideration of technical feasibility 

and effectiveness during the project scoping process facilitates project development. For more 

information on technical feasibility and effectiveness, see Part III, E.4, documentation 

requirements in Part IV, J, and application review criteria in Part V, A.3. 

E. Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands

HMA programs and grants must conform to 

44 CFR Part 9, which incorporates the 

requirements of Executive Order (EO) 11988 

and EO 11990. All proposed actions should be 

reviewed to determine whether they are in the 

floodplain or a wetland. Any proposed actions 

located in the 100-year floodplain (or 500-year 

floodplain for critical actions as defined in 

44 CFR Section 9.4) or that have the potential 

to increase the base flood or to affect, or be 

affected by, a floodplain or wetland trigger the 

requirement to complete the 8-step decisionmaking process outlined in 44 CFR Section 9.6. 

Note that 44 CFR Part 9 refers to the 

consideration of critical actions, not critical 

facilities. 

As part of the 8-step decision-making process, 

FEMA must consider alternative locations to 

determine whether the floodplain or wetland is 

the only practicable location for that action. 

Applicants and subapplicants should document 

alternatives considered as part of their scoping 

process to assist FEMA in facilitating this 

decision-making process. If the floodplain or wetland is the only practicable location, the 

Applicant/subapplicant must avoid or must minimize adverse impacts to the floodplain or 

wetland. For more information on floodplain management and the protection of wetlands, see 

Part III, E.6.1 and the HMA Job Aid (8-Step Decision Making Process for Floodplain 

Management Considerations and Protection of Wetlands).

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 17

CRITICAL ACTION DEFINITION

Critical actions are defined in 44 CFR Section

9.4, which includes examples of actions that 

FEMA deems critical. If an action is not 

specified in 44 CFR Part 9, FEMA utilizes the 

U.S. Water Resource Council Floodplain 

Management Guidelines for Implementing EO 

11988 and the following series of questions 

about the subject structure or facility to 

determine whether a proposed action is 

deemed a critical action:

• If flooded, would the proposed action

create an added dimension to the disaster,

such as for liquefied natural gas terminals

and facilities producing and storing highly

volatile, toxic, or water-reactive materials?

• Given the flood warning lead-time

available, would the occupants of buildings

such as hospitals, schools, and nursing

homes be insufficiently mobile to avoid loss

of life and injury?

• Would essential and irreplaceable records,

utilities, and/or emergency services be lost

or become inoperative if flooded?

If any of the answers are “yes,” then the 

proposed action is a critical action.
F. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Review 

and Compliance

HMA programs and grants must comply with all EHP laws and with 44 CFR Part 10 (or FEMA 

Directive Number: FD 108-1, Environmental and Historic Preservation Planning, 

Responsibilities and Program Requirements). Compliance with these laws is a condition of the 

award. In addition to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the EHP Checklist in Part 

IX, Appendix E lists the most common laws for which a project must comply. EHP compliance 

requirements may: 

♦ Have time and cost implications for a project

♦ Include additional award conditions (such as permits or timing restrictions) imposed by 

FEMA

♦ Require the Applicant or subapplicant to consider alternatives, identify alternate locations, 

and, as necessary, modify the project 

For example, two key common EHP considerations are whether the proposed project is located 

in an area that has endangered or threatened species or critical habitat and whether the proposed 

project might impact historic or cultural resources (see HMA Job Aid, NEPA Flow Chart for 

HMA Projects). If the project could result in adverse impacts to those resources, changing the 

scope of the project to avoid or minimize those impacts or incorporating EHP mitigation 

measures into the project is necessary to compensate for the impacts to those resources. 

Therefore, Applicants and subapplicants should complete the EHP Checklist when scoping a 

project and address EHP issues to ensure consideration of EHP requirements in the development 

of a complete project application. Advanced Assistance and Pre-Award costs are available 

mechanisms to frontload the EHP requirements. 

The completion of the EHP Checklist (Part IX, Appendix E) does not substitute for EHP 

compliance. FEMA has the responsibility to ensure that a project is in compliance with laws 

related to the environment and historic preservation. However, Applicants and subapplicants are 

able to assist FEMA and frontload the process by identifying EHP reviews previously completed 

by other agencies, gathering data, and reaching out to stakeholders and regulatory agencies for 

pertinent information. 

The Sandy Recovery Improvement Act of 2013 (SRIA) added Section 429 to the Stafford Act, 

directing the development of an expedited and unified interagency EHP review process, also 

known as Unified Federal Review, to ensure that Federal agencies coordinate EHP compliance 

for projects. When two or more Federal agencies are involved with a project, or if any Applicant 

EHP coordination has occurred, relevant environmental and cultural resource considerations may 

have already been identified and addressed in previous EHP project planning activities. FEMA 

is able to utilize and/or adopt EHP documentation if that documentation addresses the scope of 

the FEMA-approved activity and FEMA verifies that it meets FEMA’s EHP compliance 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 18
requirements. Applicants and subapplicants should identify for FEMA whether their project will 

involve another Federal agency or agency with delegated Federal authority and provide any 

relevant information to help streamline and inform the EHP review. In some cases, HMA may 

approve funding for a portion of a larger project that involves other FEMA programs (e.g., Public 

Assistance [PA] or Individual Assistance [IA]), other Federal agencies (e.g., U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers) or agencies with delegated Federal authority (e.g., the U.S. Department of Housing 

and Urban Development’s Responsible Entity). 

The frontloading of EHP requirements into the decision-making process allows for the 

consideration of measures that reduce or eliminate the proposed project’s impact to the human 

environment; see Figure 4 for an overview of frontloading the EHP and NEPA process. To 

determine whether any EHP issues may be associated with the proposed project, Applicants and 

subapplicants should review FEMA’s HMA EHP Resources At-a-Glance Guide, located at 

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30805?id=6976, and FEMA’s HMA 

EHP at-a-glance Guide: Project Planning with Considerations for EHP Compliance, located at 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/26621. For more information on EHP, 

see the general program requirements in Part III, E.6, the documentation summary in Part IV, K, 

and application review information in Part V, A.2.3. 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 19
Figure 4: Frontloading EHP and the Formal Review Process

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 20
G. Cost-Effectiveness

Mitigation activities are required by statute and regulation to be cost effective or be in the 

interest of the NFIF. Consideration of the cost-effectiveness requirement at the earliest possible 

stage of the decision-making process can facilitate project scoping and improve project design. 

For more information on cost-effectiveness, see Part III, E.3 and Part IV, I.

H. Cost Review

All costs included in the subapplication should be reviewed to ensure that they are necessary, 

reasonable, and allocable consistent with the provisions of 2 CFR Part 200. Conducting this cost 

review at the earliest possible stage allows for improved project scoping and facilitates project 

development, which facilitates FEMA project review.

I. Project Development

Project scoping is not a separate, stand-alone process from project development. It can be 

considered the initial stage of project development, during which the details of mitigation 

activities are evaluated and developed. State, territory, federally-recognized tribe, and local

governments that actively participate in and document their project scoping process put 

themselves in a greater position for success during project development. The information 

gathered in the scoping process serves as the basis for the development of a more detailed and 

robust technical design, cost, and EHP compliance components of the mitigation activity. 

During the project development process, the subapplicant may encounter project considerations 

such as technical feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and EHP requirements that necessitate the 

refinement or adjustment of the mitigation activity. When these situations are encountered, the 

reason for the refinement or re-scoping should be fully documented and included with the 

subapplication. 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 21
EXAMPLES OF 404 AND 406 

MITIGATION 

The following project examples 

illustrates how an Applicant or 

subapplicant can mitigate the 

damaged elements of a facility or 

infrastructure with Section 406 funds

(PA) and mitigate the undamaged 

elements with Section 404 funds

(HMGP). 

• A damaged school can be

repaired with PA funds and

enhanced with an HMGP-funded

Tornado Safe Room.

• A damaged culvert can be upsized

with PA funds and further

enhanced with the flood risk

reduction measures funded under

HMGP.

• A damaged building can be

repaired with PA funds and

enhanced with the addition of a

generator funded under HMGP.

J. Section 404 and Section 406

During the project development phase, two types of 

FEMA hazard mitigation funding should be considered 

for post-disaster implementation: Section 404, HMGP

funding and Section 406, PA funding. They are two 

distinct funding programs but can sometimes be used 

together to more completely fund a hazard mitigation 

project and to promote resilience. Section 404 funding 

can be used to fund structural and non-structural 

projects, and a facility does not need to be damaged to 

use these funds. Section 406 funding is used to restore 

the parts of a facility that were damaged during a 

disaster, and the restoration must provide protection 

from subsequent events. For example, a combination of 

Section 404 and 406 funding may be appropriate where 

Section 406 hazard mitigation funding is used to 

provide protection to the parts of a facility that were 

damaged and Section 404 hazard mitigation funding is 

used to provide protection to the undamaged parts of the 

facility (see additional information in callout box to the 

right). In these instances, the application for Section 

404 hazard mitigation funding must be submitted in a 

timely manner, consistent with State and local, or tribal, hazard mitigation plans and approved by 

the SHMO. Evaluating opportunities to leverage Section 404 and 406 funds in projects can 

facilitate project scoping and development. Additionally, exploring these opportunities can 

extend the use of limited Section 404 funds. 

K. Advance Assistance

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 22

ADVANCE ASSISTANCE

Advance Assistance can be used to 

develop mitigation strategies and 

obtain data to prioritize, select, and 

develop complete HMGP applications. 

Consideration of Advance Assistance 

early in the decision-making process 

can help facilitate the development of 

a viable project, as well as project 

administration.

Section 1104 of the SRIA authorizes the use of Advance 

Assistance, which allows advancing up to 25 percent of 

the HMGP ceiling or $10 million (whichever is less) to 

Applicants/subapplicants, to accelerate the 

implementation of the HMGP. Applicants and 

subapplicants may use Advance Assistance to develop 

mitigation strategies and obtain data, including for EHP 

compliance considerations, to prioritize, select, and 

develop complete HMGP applications in a timely 

manner. Using Advance Assistance can help Applicants
and subapplicants develop eligible and complete applications that include a feasible project 

budget and an appropriate project milestone. See Part VIII, A.12 for additional information on 

Advance Assistance.

L. Strategic Funds Management

In 2012, FEMA implemented a new initiative called SFM or incremental funding. SFM is 

designed to provide HMGP funding in increments, based on the subrecipient’s work schedule 

and ability to execute eligible activities.

All pending and future HMGP projects over $1 million 

Federal share must be reviewed to determine whether 

the project is a candidate for SFM. If an HMGP project 

is appropriate for SFM, FEMA and the non-Federal 

entities will review the budget and work schedule to 

ensure that the project supports incremental obligation. Obligations are executed in increments, 

based on the project meeting an established project milestone schedule, until the project is 

completed. 

Considering SFM early in the decision-making process can help facilitate the development of a 

feasible project budget and appropriate project milestones. 

See Part VIII, A.9 for additional information on SFM. 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 23

STRATEGIC FUNDS MANAGEMENT

SFM does not change the project 

eligibility process. It is a new method of 

approving work and providing funds as 

they are needed. 

M. Project Monitoring

After a grant or subaward is awarded, both the pass-through entity and the subrecipient are 

required to monitor and evaluate the progress of the mitigation activity in accordance with the: 

♦ Approved SOW and budget

♦ Administrative requirements of 2 CFR Part 200

♦ Applicable State requirements

Sound project monitoring improves the efficiency of the project implementation process and the 

obligation of funds process. The satisfactory use of quarterly reporting facilitates project 

management and allows the pass-through entity and FEMA to monitor obligations and any 

unliquidated funds. For additional information on project monitoring reporting requirements see 

Part VI, E. 
N. Closeout

Upon project completion, the Recipient and subrecipient are required to close out the subaward 

or Federal award in accordance with 2 CFR Sections 200.343 and 200.344. The project file 

should document that: 

♦ The approved SOW was fully implemented

♦ All obligated funds were liquidated and in a manner consistent with the approved SOW

♦ All EHP compliance grant conditions were implemented and documented as required

♦ The project was implemented in a manner consistent with the Federal award or subaward

agreement

♦ The pass-through entity submitted the required quarterly financial and performance reports

♦ The Federal award and subaward were closed out in accordance with the provisions outlined

in Part VI, E and F (subaward and Federal award closeout)

For more information on closeout, see Part VI, F. 

Part II. Frontloading HMA Program Eligibility Requirements 24
PART III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION

Part III identifies common eligibility requirements for all HMA programs, such as eligible 

Applicants and subapplicants, cost-sharing requirements, restrictions on the use of HMA funds, 

activities that are eligible for HMA funding, and other program requirements. Additional 

program-specific requirements are found in Part VIII of this guidance. Additional projectspecific requirements can be found in the Addendum to this guidance. To be eligible for funding, 

Applicants and subapplicants must apply for funds as described in this guidance. 

A. Eligible Applicants

Entities eligible to apply for HMA grants include the emergency management agency or a similar 

office of the 50 States (e.g., the office that has primary emergency management or floodplain 

management responsibility), the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, the U.S. Virgin 

Islands, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and federally-recognized tribes. Each State, 

territory, commonwealth, or federally-recognized tribe shall designate one agency to serve as the 

Applicant for each HMA program. For the definition of the term federally-recognized tribe 

(Indian Tribal government), refer to Appendix B, Glossary. 

A federally-recognized tribe has the option to apply for HMA grants through the State as a 

subapplicant (when permitted) or directly to FEMA as an Applicant. This choice is independent 

of a designation under other FEMA grants and programs, but is not available on a project-byproject basis within a single grant program. If a federally-recognized tribe chooses to apply 

directly to FEMA and an award is made, it bears the full responsibility of a Recipient. For plan 

requirements relevant to the options to apply as a subapplicant or an Applicant, see Part III, E.5.4 

and the HMA Job Aid (Federally-Recognized Tribes and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – 

Option to Submit as an Applicant or Subapplicant). 

B. Eligible Subapplicants

All interested subapplicants must apply to the 

Applicant. Table 1 identifies, in general, eligible 

subapplicants. For specific details regarding eligible 

subapplicants, refer to 44 CFR Section 206.434(a) 

for HMGP and 44 CFR Section 79.6(a) for FMA. 

For HMGP and PDM, see 44 CFR Section 

206.2(a)(16) or 2 CFR Section 200.64. 

Individuals and businesses are not eligible to apply 

for HMA funds; however, an eligible Applicant or 

subapplicant may apply for funding on behalf of 

individuals and businesses. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 25

PRIVATE NONPROFIT DEFINITION

Private Nonprofit (PNP) is defined as 

any private nonprofit educational, 

utility, emergency, medical, or 

custodial care facility, including a 

facility for older adults and people 

with disabilities, and other facility 

providing essential governmental 

services to the general public, and 

such facilities on Indian reservations. 

For further information see 44 CFR 

Sections 206.221(e) and 

206.434(a)(2). 
For additional information about the eligibility of PNPs for HMGP, see Part VIII, A.6. 

Table 1: Eligible Subapplicants

Entity HMGP PDM FMA

State agencies   

Federally-recognized tribes   

Local governments/communities(1)   

Private nonprofit organizations (PNPs) 

(1) Local governments/community may include non-federally recognized tribes, or consistent with definition of 

local government at 44 CFR 201.2, may include any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or Alaska 

Native village or organization that is not federally recognized per 25 U.S.C. 479a et seq.

C. Cost Sharing

Under the HMA programs, the total cost to implement approved mitigation activities is generally 

funded by a combination of Federal and non-Federal sources. Both the Federal and the nonFederal cost shares must be for eligible costs used in direct support of the approved activities 

under this guidance and the award. Contributions of cash, third-party in-kind services, materials, 

or any combination thereof, may be accepted as part of the non-Federal cost share. 

FEMA administers cost-sharing requirements consistent with 2 CFR Sections 200.29, 200.306, 

and 200.434. To meet cost-sharing requirements, the non-Federal contributions must be 

verifiable from the subrecipient’s records, reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary under 

the grant program and must comply with all Federal requirements and regulations. 

In general, HMA funds may be used to pay up to 75 percent of the eligible activity costs. The 

remaining 25 percent of eligible activity costs are derived from non-Federal sources. Exceptions 

to the 75 percent Federal and 25 percent non-Federal share (see Table 2) are as follows: 

♦ PDM – Small impoverished communities may be eligible for up to a 90 percent Federal cost 

share. For information about small impoverished communities, see Part VIII, B.2. 

♦ FMA 

− FEMA may contribute up to 100 percent Federal cost share for severe repetitive loss 

properties. 

− For acquisition or relocation activities for severe repetitive loss properties that are not 

determined to be cost effective using FEMA-approved cost-effectiveness options (e.g., 

BCA version 5.0 or higher, pre-calculated benefits), property owners may alternatively 

receive the calculated expected savings to the NFIF as provided by the GSTF value. 

For more information on this provision, see Part VIII, C.3. 

− FEMA may contribute up to 90 percent Federal cost share for repetitive loss 

properties. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 26
− FEMA may contribute up to 75 percent Federal cost share for properties that are 

NFIP-insured but do not meet the repetitive loss or severe repetitive loss definitions. 

♦ Insular areas, including American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, 

Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands – FEMA automatically waives the non-Federal 

cost share when the non-Federal cost share for the entire grant is under $200,000 and not an 

individual subaward. If the non-Federal cost share for the entire grant is $200,000 or greater, 

FEMA may waive all or part of the cost share; such a waiver is usually consistent with that 

provided for PA under the Presidential major disaster declaration. If FEMA does not waive 

the cost share, the insular area must pay the entire cost-share amount, not only the amount 

over $200,000. 

Cost-share requirements also extend to management costs with the following exceptions: 

♦ For HMGP, available HMGP management costs are calculated as a percentage of the 

Federal funds provided. There is no additional cost-share requirement for management costs.

♦ Under PDM, only tribal Recipients and subrecipients meeting the definition of small and 

impoverished are eligible for a non-Federal cost share of 10 percent for management costs. 

See Part VIII, A.8 for further information about HMGP cost-share requirements and Part IV, E.4 

for further information on funding restrictions for management costs. 

Table 2: Cost-Share Requirements

Programs Mitigation Activity

(Percent of Federal/NonFederal Share)

Recipient 

Management Costs

(Percent of Federal/NonFederal Share)

Subrecipient

Management Costs

(Percent of Federal/NonFederal Share)

HMGP 75/25 100/0 –/–(1)

PDM 75/25 75/25 75/25

PDM – subrecipient is small and 

impoverished community

90/10 75/25 90/10

PDM – Tribal 

Recipient/subrecipient is small 

and impoverished 

90/10 90/10 90/10

FMA – insured properties and 

planning grants

75/25 75/25 75/25

FMA – repetitive loss property(2) 90/10 90/10 90/10

FMA – severe repetitive loss 

property(2)

100/0 100/0 100/0

(1) Subapplicants should consult their State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO) for the amount or percentage of HMGP subrecipient

management cost funding their State has determined to be passed through to subrecipients.

(2) To be eligible for an increased Federal cost share, a FEMA-approved State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan 

that addresses repetitive loss properties must be in effect at the time of award, and the property that is being submitted for 

consideration must be a repetitive loss property.

Part III. Eligibility Information 27
C.1 Federal Funds Allowed to Be Used as Non-Federal Cost Share

In general, the non-Federal cost-share requirement may not be met with funds from other Federal 

agencies; however, authorizing statutes explicitly allow some Federal funds to be used as a cost 

share for other Federal grants. Federal funds that are used to meet a non-Federal cost-share 

requirement must meet the purpose and eligibility requirements of both the Federal source 

program and the HMA grant program. 

C.2 Increased Cost of Compliance as Non-Federal Cost Share

Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage is one of several resources for flood insurance 

policyholders who need additional help rebuilding after a flood. It provides up to $30,000 to 

help cover the cost of mitigation measures that will reduce flood risk. ICC coverage is a part of 

most standard flood insurance policies available under the NFIP.

The NFIP ICC claim payment from a flood event may be used to contribute to the non-Federal 

cost-share requirements so long as the claim is made within the timelines allowed by the NFIP. 

ICC payments can only be used for costs that are eligible for ICC benefits, which are elevation, 

floodproofing, relocation, or demolition (or any combination of these activities). For example, 

ICC cannot pay for property acquisition, but can pay for structure demolition or relocation. In 

addition, Federal funds cannot be provided where ICC funds are available; if the ICC payment 

exceeds the required non-Federal share, the Federal funding award will be reduced to the 

difference between the cost of the activity and the ICC payment.

If an ICC payment is being used as a subapplicant’s non-Federal cost share, the NFIP 

policyholder must assign the claim to the subapplicant. However, only that part of the ICC

benefit that pertains to the property can be assigned to the subapplicant. The NFIP policyholder 

can only assign the ICC benefit to the subapplicant; in no case can the policyholder assign the 

ICC benefit to another individual. Steps for the assignment of ICC coverage are available at 

http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program/steps-assignment-coverage-d-increasedcost-compliance-coverage. In some cases, individual policyholders can take advantage of 

Federal grant money to supplement the cost of mitigation activities. Policyholders can assign 

their ICC benefits to their community and enable the community to file a single claim on behalf 

of a community mitigation project. FEMA will count the ICC claim monies as non-Federal 

matching funds in mitigation grant applications, because ICC coverage is a direct contract 

between the policyholder and the insurer. The community can then use FEMA mitigation grant 

funds to help pay for any additional portion of the cost of elevation, floodproofing, relocation, or 

demolition that is more than the ICC claim payment. It is extremely important for policyholders 

and community officials to work closely together at every stage of this process. Individual 

participation in a FEMA-funded community mitigation project is voluntary and the community is 

required to provide mitigation funds to any property owner whose ICC payment was counted

towards the matching funds.

Part III. Eligibility Information 28
C.2.1 Steps for the Assignment of Coverage D – Increased Cost of Compliance 

Coverage 

Policyholders should follow the following steps for the assignment of Coverage D: 

1. Policyholder consents to the assignment of the ICC claim payment.

2. The community official provides the policyholder with an Assignment of Coverage D

Form.

3. The policyholder signs the form and provides the signed form to the community official.

4. The community official sends a copy of the completed form, along with the community’s

signed declaration of Substantial Damage to the NFIP Bureau & Statistical Agent at the

following address:

NFIP Bureau & Statistical Agent

8400 Corporate Drive, Suite 350 

Landover, MD 20785 

5. The NFIP Bureau & Statistical Agent maintains a database of the ICC information

submitted by the community. The Bureau then sends the documents to the appropriate

WYO (or Write Your Own) company with instructions. The company will then assign an

adjuster.

6. The assigned adjuster contacts the policyholder to advise s/he has the claim and contacts

the local community official to coordinate and help complete the claim.

7. The adjuster receives/reviews the contract for demolition, elevation, relocation, or

floodproofing to determine the cost.

8. The adjuster has the community official sign the proof of loss once the claim value has

been determined.

9. The adjuster sends the final report, along with the proof of loss, to the insurance company

for payment.

10. The insurance company issues the check to the community and advises the NFIP Bureau

& Statistical Agent of the amount of the claim payment.

For additional information on ICC, go to https://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/12170?id=3010. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 29
D. Restrictions

This section presents information on Non-discrimination Compliance, Conflict of Interest, 

Procurements by States and other entities, DOP, and Duplication of Benefits (DOB). 

D.1 Non-discrimination Compliance

In accordance with Section 308 of the Stafford Act; Sections 503, 504, and 508 of the 

Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, all HMA 

programs are administered in an equitable and impartial manner, without discrimination on the 

grounds of race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic 

status. In addition, Federal assistance distributed by State and local governments is to be 

implemented in compliance with all applicable laws. 

Applicants and subapplicants must ensure that no discrimination is practiced. Applicants and 

subapplicants must consider fairness, equity, and equal access when prioritizing and selecting 

project subapplications to submit with their grant application. Subapplicants also must ensure 

fairness and equal access to property owners and individuals that benefit from mitigation 

activities.

D.2 Conflict of Interest

Recipients and pass-through entities must follow their own policies and procedures regarding the 

elimination or reduction of conflicts of interest when making subawards. Recipients and passthrough entities are also required to follow any applicable State, local, or tribal statutes or 

regulations governing conflicts of interest in the making of subawards. 

Conflicts of interest may arise during the process of FEMA making a Federal award—for 

instance, in situations where an employee, officer, or agent; any members of the individual’s 

immediate family; or his or her partner has a close personal relationship, a business relationship, 

or a professional relationship, with an Applicant, subapplicant, Recipient, subrecipient, or 

employee.

The Recipient or pass-through entity must disclose to FEMA in writing any real or potential 

conflict of interest, as defined by the Federal, State, local, or tribal statutes or regulations or their 

own existing policies, that arise during the administration of the Federal award. Recipients and 

pass-through entities must disclose any real or potential conflicts to the Federal Approving 

Official within 15 days of learning of the conflict of interest. Similarly, subrecipients must 

disclose any real or potential conflict of interest to the pass-through entity as required by the 

Recipient’s conflict of interest policies or any applicable State, local, or tribal statutes or 

regulations. This requirement starts when the application period opens, continues during the 

entire POP, and ends when the last audit is completed. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 30
D.3 Procurement 

For conflict of interest requirements for procurement under awards, all Applicants, subapplicants, and non-Federal entities must follow the requirements under the procurement 

regulations at 2 CFR Sections 200.317 through 200.326. When procuring property and services 

under a Federal award, a State Recipient or subrecipient must follow the same policies and 

procedures it uses for procurements from its non-Federal funds and the requirements outlined in 

2 CFR Section 200.317. All other Recipients and subrecipients (not a State) must follow 2 CFR 

Sections 200.318 through 200.326. For more information on the procurement process, see HMA 

Job Aid (HMA Procurement Standards). 

D.4 Duplication of Programs 

FEMA will not provide assistance for activities for which it determines the more specific 

authority lies with another Federal agency or program. Other programs and authorities should be 

examined before applying for HMA funding. HMA funds are not intended to be used as a 

substitute for other available program authorities. Available program authorities include other 

FEMA programs (e.g., IA, PA) and programs under other Federal agencies, such as the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the Natural Resources 

Conservation Service. FEMA may disallow or recoup amounts that duplicate other authorities. 

For additional information about DOP for wildfire mitigation projects, see Addendum, Part 

B.2.4. For additional information about DOP under flood risk reduction measures, see 

Addendum, Part F.2. 

D.5 Duplication of Benefits

HMA funds cannot duplicate funds received by or 

available to Applicants or subapplicants from 

other sources for the same purpose. Examples of 

other sources include insurance claims, other 

assistance programs (including previous project 

or planning grants and subawards from HMA 

programs), legal awards, or other benefits 

associated with properties or damage that are 

subject of litigation. 

Because the availability of other sources of 

mitigation grant or loan assistance is subject to 

available information and the means of each 

individual Applicant, HMA does not require that 

property owners seek assistance from other sources (with the exception of insurance). However, 

it is the responsibility of the property owner to report other benefits received, any applications 

Part III. Eligibility Information 31

DUPLICATION OF BENEFITS

DOB is used to describe assistance that is 

from more than one source and that is used 

for the same purpose or activity. The 

purpose may apply to the entire project or 

only part of it.

DOB may apply when assistance for the 

same purpose:

• Has been received

• Will be received

• Is reasonably available from another

source, such as insurance or legal

settlements due to the property owners
for other assistance, the availability of insurance proceeds, or the potential for other 

compensation, such as from pending legal claims for damage relating to the property. 

Where the property owner has an insurance policy covering any loss to the property that relates 

to the proposed HMA project, the means are available for receiving compensation for a loss or, 

in the case of ICC, assistance toward a mitigation project. FEMA will generally require that the 

property owner file a claim prior to the receipt of HMA funds. 

Information regarding other assistance received by properties in HMA projects may be shared 

under 5 U.S.C. 552a (b) of the Privacy Act of 1974. Uses may include sharing with custodians 

of property records, such as other Federal or other governmental agencies, insurance companies, 

or any public or private entity, for the purposes of ensuring that the property has not received 

money that is duplicative of any possible HMA awards received. When obtaining information 

from property owners about other sources of assistance, a Privacy Act statement must be 

distributed to each owner. For more information about the process of verifying potential 

duplication, access the Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) Tool for Identifying Duplication of 

Benefits at http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6815, and for a copy of the Privacy 

Act statement, see Appendix F of that document. 

For additional information on DOB for property acquisition and structure demolition or 

relocation projects, see Addendum, Part A.6.9.3. 

E. General Program Requirements

This section presents information on Eligible Activities, Ineligible Activities, Cost-Effectiveness, 

Feasibility and Effectiveness, Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement, EHP Requirements, NFIP 

Eligibility Requirements, and Statutory, Regulatory, and Other Requirements.

E.1 Eligible Activities

To be eligible, activities must meet all requirements referenced in this guidance. Eligible 

activities for HMA fall into the following categories: 

♦ Mitigation projects (all HMA programs) 

♦ Hazard mitigation planning (all HMA programs)

♦ Technical assistance (FMA only) 

♦ Management costs (all HMA programs)

Table 3 summarizes eligible activities that may be funded by the HMA programs. Detailed 

descriptions of these activities follow the table in Part III, E.1.1. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 32
Table 3: Eligible Activities by Program

Eligible Activities HMGP PDM FMA

1. Mitigation Projects   

Property Acquisition and Structure Demolition   

Property Acquisition and Structure Relocation   

Structure Elevation   

Mitigation Reconstruction   

Dry Floodproofing of Historic Residential Structures   

Dry Floodproofing of Non-residential Structures   

Generators  

Localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects   

Non-localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects  

Structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings   

Non-structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings and Facilities   

Safe Room Construction  

Wind Retrofit for One- and Two-Family Residences  

Infrastructure Retrofit   

Soil Stabilization   

Wildfire Mitigation  

 Post-Disaster Code Enforcement 

Advance Assistance 

5 Percent Initiative Projects 

Miscellaneous/Other(1)   

2. Hazard Mitigation Planning   

Planning Related Activities 

3. Technical Assistance 

4. Management Cost   

(1) Miscellaneous/Other indicates that any proposed action will be evaluated on its own merit against 

program requirements. Eligible projects will be approved provided funding is available.

Additional information regarding eligible projects for HMGP is included in Part VIII, A.11 and 

A.12, and for FMA, in Part VIII, C.1. 

Costs for eligible activities must be reasonable, allowable, allocable, and necessary as required 

by 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart E, applicable program regulations, and this guidance. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 33
E.1.1 Mitigation Projects

This section briefly describes the mitigation projects eligible under one or more of the three 

HMA programs. Table 3 summarizes the eligibility of the following project types for each 

program: 

♦ Property Acquisition and Structure Demolition: The voluntary acquisition of an existing 

flood-prone structure and, typically, the underlying land, and conversion of the land to open 

space through the demolition of the structure. The property must be deed-restricted in 

perpetuity to open space uses to restore and/or conserve the natural floodplain functions. For 

property acquisition and structure demolition projects, see Addendum, Part A. 

♦ Property Acquisition and Structure Relocation: The voluntary physical relocation of an 

existing structure to an area outside of a hazard-prone area, such as the Special Flood Hazard 

Area (SFHA) or a regulatory erosion zone and, typically, the acquisition of the underlying 

land. Relocation must conform to all applicable State and local regulations. The property 

must be deed-restricted in perpetuity to open space uses to restore and/or conserve the natural 

floodplain functions. For property acquisition and structure relocation projects, see 

Addendum, Part A. 

♦ Structure Elevation: Physically raising and/or retrofitting an existing structure in 

accordance with ASCE 24-14 (Base Flood Elevation [BFE] plus freeboard) or higher when

required by FEMA or local ordinance. Elevation may be achieved through a variety of 

methods, including elevating on continuous foundation walls; elevating on open foundations, 

such as piles, piers, posts, or columns; and elevating on fill. Foundations must be designed to 

properly address all loads and be appropriately connected to the floor structure above, and 

utilities must be properly elevated as well. FEMA requires Recipients and subrecipients to 

design all structure elevation projects in accordance with ASCE 24-14. For additional 

information about structure elevation projects, see Addendum, Part E. 

♦ Mitigation Reconstruction: The construction of an improved, elevated building on the 

same site where an existing building and/or foundation has been partially or completely 

demolished or destroyed. Mitigation reconstruction is only permitted for structures outside 

of the regulatory floodway or Coastal High Hazard Area (Zone V) as identified by the 

existing best available flood hazard data. Activities that result in the construction of new 

living space at or above the BFE will only be considered when consistent with mitigation 

reconstruction requirements. FEMA requires Recipients and subrecipients to design all 

mitigation reconstruction projects in accordance with ASCE 24-14. For additional 

information about structure elevation projects, see Addendum, Part D. 

♦ Dry Floodproofing: Techniques applied to keep structures dry by sealing the structure to 

keep floodwaters out. For all dry floodproofing activities, FEMA requires Recipients and 

subrecipients to design all dry floodproofing projects in accordance with ASCE 24-14. Dry 

floodproofing is not permitted in the Coastal V Zone. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 34
− Dry Floodproofing of Historic Residential Structures is permissible only when 

other techniques that would mitigate to the BFE would cause the structure to lose its 

status as a Historic Structure, as defined in 44 CFR Section 59.1. 

− Dry Floodproofing of Non-residential Structures must be performed in accordance 

with NFIP Technical Bulletin (TB) 3-93, Non-Residential Floodproofing—

Requirements and Certification, and the requirements pertaining to dry floodproofing 

of non-residential structures found in 44 CFR Sections 60.3(b)(5) and (c)(4). 

♦ Generators: Generators are emergency

equipment that provide a secondary source of

power. Generators and related equipment

(e.g., hook-ups) are eligible provided that

they are cost effective, contribute to a longterm solution to the problem they are

intended to address, and meet other program

eligibility criteria.

− Under PDM: A generator that is a 

stand-alone project can be considered 

for PDM funding if the generator 

protects a critical facility. Generators 

and/or related equipment purchases (e.g., generator hook-ups) are eligible when the 

generator directly relates to the hazards being mitigated and is part of a larger project.

− Under HMGP: A generator that is a stand-alone project can be considered under 

regular HMGP funding if the generator protects a critical facility. Critical facilities 

may include police and fire stations, hospitals, and water and sewer treatment facilities

(for the definition of critical facilities, see Appendix B, Glossary). A generator that is 

a component of a larger project (e.g., elevation of a lift station) can also be funded 

under regular HMGP funding and the use of aggregation is permitted. Stand-alone 

generator projects that cannot be determined to be cost effective via standard HMA 

benefit-cost methodology may be eligible under the 5 Percent Initiative. See Part VIII, 

A.14 for additional information about the 5 Percent Initiative. 

For additional information on generators, see HMA Job Aid (Eligibility of Generators as a 

Fundable Project by the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and Pre-Disaster Mitigation 

Program). 

HMA funds are not available as a substitute for emergency, temporary, or partial solutions 

under the Stafford Act Section 403, Essential Assistance (42 U.S.C. 5170b) and/or the 

Stafford Act, Title VI Emergency Preparedness (42 U.S.C. 5195). 

Part III. Eligibility Information 35

GENERATORS

• Stand-alone generators and related

equipment (e.g., generator hook-ups) are

eligible under the 5 Percent Initiative.

• Stand-alone generators (including related

equipment) are eligible for regular HMGP

and PDM funding if the generator protects

a critical facility and meets all other

program eligibility criteria.

• Generators (including related equipment)

that constitute a functional portion of an

otherwise eligible mitigation measure are

eligible for HMGP and PDM funding.
♦ Localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects: Projects to lessen the frequency or severity of

flooding, and decrease predicted flood damage, within an isolated and confined drainage or

catchment area that is not hydraulically linked or connected to a larger basin. These projects

include but are not limited to installation or modification of culverts and other stormwater

management facilities; construction or modification of retention and detention basins; and

construction or modification of floodwalls, dams, and weirs. Modifications must be for the

purpose of increasing risk reduction capabilities of the existing structures and cannot

constitute only repairs. Localized flood risk reduction projects must not duplicate the flood

prevention activities of other Federal agencies and may not constitute a section of a larger

flood control system.

− Under FMA, localized flood reduction projects should benefit NFIP-insured 

properties. Projects will be prioritized based on the number of NFIP-insured 

properties included in the project. Projects that do not include NFIP-insured properties 

will not be considered for funding. Documentation must be provided in the 

subapplication to verify the NFIP insurance coverage, including the flood insurance 

policy and property locator numbers as appropriate. 

♦ Non-localized Flood Risk Reduction Projects: Projects that lessen the frequency or

severity of flooding, and decrease predicted flood damage, within an area that is

hydraulically linked or connected to a drainage basin that is regional in scale. These projects

reduce flood hazards in areas larger than that of localized flood reduction projects and may

include the construction, demolition, or rehabilitation of dams; construction or modification

of dikes, levees, floodwalls, seawalls, groins, jetties, breakwaters, and stabilized sand dunes;

and large-scale channelization of a waterway. Modifications must be for the purpose of

increasing risk reduction capabilities of the existing structures and cannot constitute only

repairs. These projects cannot constitute a section of a larger flood control system or

duplicate the flood prevention activities of other Federal agencies on the same site. These

projects types are only eligible under HMGP and PDM.

♦ Structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings: Modifications to the structural elements of a

building to reduce or eliminate the risk of future damage and to protect inhabitants. The

structural elements of a building that are essential to prevent damage include foundations,

load-bearing walls, beams, columns, building envelope, structural floors and roofs, and the

connections between these elements.

♦ Non-structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings and Facilities: Modifications to the

non-structural elements of a building or facility to reduce or eliminate the risk of future

damage and to protect inhabitants. Non-structural retrofits may include bracing of building

contents to prevent earthquake damage or the elevation of utilities.

♦ Safe Room Construction: Safe room construction projects are designed to provide

immediate life-safety protection for people in public and private structures from tornado and

severe wind events, including hurricanes. For HMA, the term “safe room” only applies to

Part III. Eligibility Information 36
extreme wind (combined tornado and hurricane) residential, non-residential, and community 

safe rooms; tornado community safe rooms; and hurricane community safe rooms. This type 

of project includes retrofits of existing facilities or new safe room construction projects and 

applies to both single and dual-use facilities. For additional information, see Addendum, Part 

C.

♦ Wind Retrofit Projects: Wind retrofit projects of one- and two-family residential buildings 

must be designed in conformance with the design criteria found in FEMA P-804, Wind 

Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings (2010). This document is available in the FEMA 

Library at http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4569.

♦ Infrastructure Retrofit: Measures to reduce risk to existing utility systems, roads, and 

bridges. 

♦ Soil Stabilization: Projects to reduce risk to structures or infrastructure from erosion and 

landslides, including installing geotextiles, stabilizing sod, installing vegetative buffer strips, 

preserving mature vegetation, decreasing slope angles, and stabilizing with rip rap and other 

means of slope anchoring. These projects must not duplicate the activities of other Federal 

agencies.

♦ Wildfire Mitigation: Projects to mitigate at-risk structures and associated loss of life from 

the threat of future wildfire through:

− Creation of Defensible Space: Projects creating perimeters around homes, structures, 

and critical facilities through the removal or reduction of flammable vegetation. For 

additional information, see Addendum, Part B.4.1.

− Application of Ignition-resistant Construction: Projects that apply ignitionresistant techniques and/or non-combustible materials on new and existing homes, 

structures, and critical facilities. For additional information, see Addendum, Part 

B.4.2.

− Hazardous Fuels Reduction: Projects that remove vegetative fuels proximate to atrisk structures that, if ignited, pose a significant threat to human life and property, 

especially critical facilities. For additional information, see Addendum, Part B.4.3.

♦ Post-Disaster Code Enforcement: Projects designed to support the post-disaster rebuilding 

effort by ensuring that sufficient expertise is on hand to ensure appropriate codes and 

standards, including NFIP local ordinance requirements, are used and enforced. For 

additional information, see Part VIII, A.11.

♦ Advance Assistance: Section 1104 of the SRIA authorizes the use of Advance Assistance to 

accelerate the implementation of HMGP. Applicants and subapplicants may use Advance 

Assistance to develop mitigation strategies and obtain data to prioritize, select, and develop 

complete HMGP applications in a timely manner. See Part VIII, A.12 for additional 

information on Advance Assistance.

Part III. Eligibility Information 37
♦ 5 Percent Initiative Projects: These projects, which are only available pursuant to an 

HMGP disaster, provide an opportunity to fund mitigation actions that are consistent with 

the goals and objectives of the State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) and local mitigation 

plans and meet all HMGP requirements, but for which it may be difficult to conduct a 

standard BCA to prove cost-effectiveness. For additional information, see Part VIII, A.14.

♦ Miscellaneous/Other: FEMA encourages Applicants and subapplicants to pursue activities 

that best address mitigation planning and priorities in their community; however, these 

eligible activities are not limited to those that are described under Part III, E of the HMA 

Guidance. Miscellaneous/Other project activities will be reviewed according to Part V of the 

HMA Guidance for application eligibility, cost-effectiveness, feasibility and effectiveness, 

and EHP compliance.

FEMA encourages mitigation projects that fall into the Miscellaneous/Other category to 

address climate change adaptation and resiliency. Mitigation projects must adapt to new 

challenges posed by more powerful storms, frequent heavy precipitation, heat waves, 

prolonged droughts, extreme flooding, higher sea levels, and other weather events. 

Miscellaneous/Other projects can also address projects that could benefit from sustainable 

development practices focusing on ecosystem-based and hybrid approaches to disaster risk 

reduction. 

Any mitigation activities prohibited in Part III, E.2 of the HMA Guidance will remain 

ineligible. It is important for Applicants and subapplicants to provide thorough descriptions

of project activities because of the unique nature of this eligibility category.

♦ Technical Assistance (FMA): For information on Technical Assistance, see Part III, E.1.4.

♦ Management Costs: For information on Management Costs, see Part III, E.1.5, and Part IV, 

E.4.

E.1.2 Ineligible Stand-Alone Activities

The following activities are not eligible as stand-alone activities but are eligible when included 

as a functional component of eligible mitigation activities:

♦ For PDM, eligible information dissemination activities in project or planning 

subapplications. The information dissemination activities are limited to a maximum of 10 

percent of the total cost of a subapplication.

♦ For PDM, generator-related equipment purchases (e.g., generator hook-ups), unless the 

generator-related equipment directly relates to the hazards being mitigated and is part of a 

larger project

♦ Real property or easement purchases required for the completion of an eligible mitigation 

project

Part III. Eligibility Information 38
♦ Studies that are integral to the development and implementation of a mitigation project,

including hydrologic and hydraulic, engineering, or drainage studies

E.1.3 Hazard Mitigation Planning

Mitigation plans are the foundation for effective hazard 

mitigation. A mitigation plan is a demonstration of the 

commitment to reduce risks from natural hazards and 

serves as a strategic guide for decision-makers as they 

commit resources. 

The mitigation planning process includes hazard identification and risk assessment leading to the 

development of a comprehensive mitigation strategy for reducing risks to life and property. The 

mitigation strategy section of the plan identifies a range of specific mitigation actions and 

projects being considered to reduce risks to new and existing buildings and infrastructure. This 

section includes an action plan describing how identified mitigation activities will be prioritized, 

implemented, and administered. 

Planning activities funded under HMA are designed to develop State, tribal, and local mitigation 

plans that meet the planning requirements outlined in 44 CFR Part 201. A mitigation planning 

subaward must result in a mitigation plan adopted by the jurisdiction(s) and approved by FEMA 

or it must result in a planning-related activity (eligible under HMGP only) approved by FEMA 

(e.g., incorporating new data into the risk assessment or updating the mitigation strategy to 

reflect current disaster recovery goals) consistent with the requirements in 44 CFR Parts 201 and 

206. 

For FMA, funds shall only be used to support the flood hazard portion of State, tribal, or local 

mitigation plans to meet the criteria specified in 44 CFR Part 201. Funds are only available to 

support these activities in communities participating in the NFIP.

For links to mitigation planning and risk assessment resources, see Part IX, C.2. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 39

MITIGATION PLANNING-RELATED 

ACTIVITIES

Planning activities can include assessing 

risk, updating the mitigation strategy, and 

promoting resilience to reflect current 

disaster recovery goals (HMGP only). 

E.1.3.1 Eligible Hazard Mitigation Planning–Related Activities

Eligible activities that can be funded as mitigation planning–related activities under HMGP

(these activities are not eligible under PDM and FMA) include but are not limited to:

♦ Updating or enhancing sections of the current FEMA-approved mitigation plan, such as:

− The risk and vulnerability assessment based on new information, including supporting 

studies, such as economic analyses

− The mitigation strategy, specifically strengthening the linkage to mitigation action 

implementation, with emphasis on available HMA project grant funding
− The risk assessment and/or mitigation strategy, incorporating climate adaptation, green 

building, smart growth principles, or historic properties and cultural resources 

information

♦ Integrating information from mitigation plans, specifically risk assessment or mitigation

strategies, with other planning efforts, such as:

− Disaster recovery strategy (pre- or post-), preparedness, or response plans

− Comprehensive (e.g., land use, master) plans 

− Capital improvement or economic development plans

− Resource management/conservation plans (e.g., stormwater, open space)

− Other long-term community planning initiatives (e.g., transportation or housing)

♦ Building capability through delivery of technical assistance and training

♦ Evaluating adoption and/or implementation of ordinances that reduce risk and/or increase

resilience

E.1.3.2 Ineligible Hazard Mitigation Planning–Related Activities

The following activities cannot be funded as mitigation planning–related activities:

♦ Hazard identification or mapping and related equipment for the implementation of mitigation

activities (eligible under 5 Percent Initiative)

♦ Geographic Information System (GIS) software, hardware, and data acquisition whose

primary aim is mitigation activity (eligible under 5 Percent Initiative)

♦ Public awareness or education campaigns about mitigation (eligible under 5 Percent

Initiative)

♦ Project scoping or development (also referred to as “project planning”), such as BCA,

engineering feasibility studies, application development, construction design, or EHP data

collection

♦ Activities not resulting in a clearly defined product or products

E.1.4 Technical Assistance

The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 allows FEMA to provide a technical 

assistance grant to any Applicant that was awarded at least $1,000,000 (Federal share) in FMA

grants in the prior fiscal year. A technical assistance award cannot exceed $50,000 (Federal 

share) to any single Applicant in any fiscal year. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 40
Eligible technical assistance activities may include:

♦ Promoting FMA to communities

♦ Visiting sites with communities/Applicants

♦ Developing and reviewing project applications and mitigation plans

♦ Participating in planning meetings

♦ Providing planning workshops/materials

♦ Performing BCAs and providing grants management workshops/materials

♦ Funding, in part, salaries and expenses of staff working to develop, review, monitor, and

close FMA grants

Essentially, a technical assistance award and a management costs award can achieve many of the 

same objectives. A technical assistance award is meant to allow Recipients to maintain a viable 

FMA program over time. Applicants must ensure that activities are not duplicated between the 

two awards. For instance, duplication would exist if a technical assistance award provides 

funding for project development that the Applicant seeks reimbursement for under management 

costs. Proper record-keeping is important to ensure activities are not duplicated.

E.1.5 Management Costs

Management costs are any indirect costs and 

administrative expenses that are reasonably 

incurred by a Recipient or subrecipient in 

administering an award or subaward. 

Eligible Applicant or subapplicant management 

cost activities may include: 

♦ Solicitation, review, and processing of

subapplications and subawards

♦ Subapplication development and technical assistance to subapplicants regarding feasibility

and effectiveness and BCA

♦ Geocoding mitigation projects identified for further review by FEMA

♦ Delivery of technical assistance (e.g., plan reviews, planning workshops, training) to support

the implementation of mitigation activities

♦ Managing awards (e.g., quarterly reporting, closeout)

♦ Technical monitoring (e.g., site visits, technical meetings)

Part III. Eligibility Information 41

EXAMPLES OF INDIRECT COSTS 

CATEGORIES

• Depreciation or use allowances on buildings

and equipment

• Costs of operating and maintaining facilities

• General administration and general expenses

• Personnel and accounting administration
♦ Purchase of equipment, per diem and travel expenses, and professional development that is 

directly related to the implementation of HMA programs

♦ Staff salary costs directly related to performing the activities listed above

Management costs are only awarded in conjunction with project or planning grants and 

subawards. For more information regarding management costs for HMGP, see Part VIII, A.5. 

For PDM and FMA, FEMA may provide up to 25 percent of the Applicant’s anticipated 

management costs upon the award and final approval of the first subaward. The remaining

management costs will be obligated as additional subawards are awarded.

E.2 Ineligible Activities

The following list provides examples of activities that are not eligible for HMA funding:

♦ Projects that do not reduce the risk to people, structures, or infrastructure

♦ Projects that are dependent on a contingent action to be effective and/or feasible (i.e., not a 

stand-alone mitigation project that solves a problem independently or constitutes a functional 

portion of a solution)

♦ Projects with the sole purpose of open space acquisition of unimproved land

♦ Property acquisition projects that are not compatible with open space and do not maintain 

open space for the conservation of natural floodplain functions or properties that include 

encumbrances that may allow for horizontal drilling or fracking

♦ Non-localized flood risk reduction projects specific to FMA

♦ Flood control projects related to the repair or replacement of dams and other flood control 

structures and repair of dams for the purpose of regular pre-scheduled or damage-induced 

maintenance

♦ Projects for which actual physical work, such as groundbreaking, demolition, or construction 

of a raised foundation, has occurred prior to award or final approval. Projects for which 

demolition and debris removal related to structures proposed for acquisition or mitigation 

reconstruction has already occurred may be eligible when such activities were initiated or 

completed under the FEMA PA program to alleviate a health or safety hazard as a result of a 

disaster.

♦ Projects for preparedness activities or temporary measures (e.g., sandbags, bladders, 

geotubes)

♦ Projects that create revolving loan funds

♦ Activities required as a result of negligence or intentional actions that contributed to the 

conditions to be mitigated; activities intended to remedy a code violation; or the 

Part III. Eligibility Information 42
reimbursement of legal obligations, such as those imposed by a legal settlement, court order, 

or State law

♦ All projects located in Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) Units, other than property 

acquisition and structure demolition or relocation projects for open space under HMA. For 

details on CBRS Units see Addendum, Part A.6.

♦ Projects located in an OPA that require flood insurance after project completion 

♦ Activities on Federal lands or associated with facilities owned by another Federal entity 

♦ Projects related to beach nourishment or re-nourishment

♦ Projects for hazardous fuels reduction in excess of 2 miles from at-risk buildings and

structures

♦ Projects that address unmet needs from a disaster that are not related to mitigation 

♦ Retrofitting facilities primarily used for religious purposes, such as places of worship (or 

other projects that solely benefit religious organizations). However, a place of worship may 

be included in a property acquisition and structure demolition or relocation project provided 

that the project benefits the entire community, such as when a significant part of the 

community is being removed from the hazard area.

♦ Activities that only address manmade hazards

♦ Projects that address, without an increase in the level of protection, the operation, deferred or 

future maintenance, rehabilitation, restoration, or replacement of existing structures, 

facilities, or infrastructure (e.g., dredging, debris removal, replacement of obsolete utility 

systems or bridges, maintenance/rehabilitation of facilities, including dams and other flood 

control structures)

♦ Projects for the purpose of:

− Landscaping for ornamentation (e.g., trees, shrubs)

− Site remediation of hazardous materials (with the exception eligible activities, such as 

the abatement of asbestos and/or lead-based paint and the removal of household 

hazardous wastes for disposal at an approved landfill) 

− Water quality infrastructure

− Projects that primarily address ecological or agricultural issues

− Forest management 

− Prescribed burning or clear-cutting

− Creation and maintenance of fire breaks, access roads, or staging areas

− Irrigation systems

Part III. Eligibility Information 43
♦ Studies not directly related to the design and implementation of a proposed mitigation project

♦ Preparedness measures and response equipment (e.g., response training, electronic

evacuation road signs, interoperable communications equipment)

FEMA may, at its discretion, choose not to fund projects subject to ongoing litigation if such 

litigation may affect eligibility of the project or may substantially delay implementation of the 

project. All projects must also comply with any additional project-specific guidance provided in 

the Addendum.

E.3 Cost-Effectiveness

Mitigation program authorizing statutes (Flood Mitigation Assistance at 42 U.S.C. 4104c, PreDisaster Hazard Mitigation at 42 U.S.C. 5133, and Hazard Mitigation at 42 U.S.C. 5170c) 

require that FEMA provide funding for mitigation measures that are cost effective or are in the 

interest of the NFIF. FEMA has specified minimum project criteria via regulation (44 CFR Part 

79 and 44 CFR Section 206.434), including that Applicants must demonstrate mitigation projects 

are cost effective. The determination of cost-effectiveness is performed in a variety of ways. It 

is typically demonstrated by the calculation of a benefit-cost ratio (BCR), dividing total 

annualized project benefits by total annualized project cost. Projects where benefits exceed costs 

are generally considered cost effective (see Part III, E.3 and Part V, A.3 for additional 

information). 

E.4 Feasibility and Effectiveness

Mitigation projects funded by HMA must be both feasible and effective at mitigating the risks of 

the hazard(s) for which the project was designed. A project’s feasibility is demonstrated through 

conformance with accepted engineering practices, established codes, standards, modeling 

techniques, or best practices. Effective mitigation measures funded under HMA provide a longterm or permanent solution to a risk from a natural hazard. 

For additional information about the feasibility and effectiveness requirement for mitigation 

reconstruction projects, see the Addendum, Part D.2.1; for additional feasibility and effectiveness 

resources, see Part IX, C.4. 

E.5 Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement

This section presents information on plan requirements for Recipient mitigation plans, 

subrecipient mitigation plans, and Tribal Mitigation Plans. It also presents information on 

extraordinary circumstances and conformance with hazard mitigation plans. 

Part III. Eligibility Information 44
E.5.1 Applicant Mitigation Plan Requirement

In accordance with 44 CFR Part 201, all Applicants for PDM and FMA must have a FEMAapproved State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan by the application deadline and 

at the time of obligation of the award. State agencies and federally-recognized tribes applying 

for HMGP funding must have a FEMA-approved State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) 

Mitigation Plan at the time of the Presidential major disaster declaration and at the time HMGP

funding is obligated to the Recipient or subrecipient. 

E.5.2 Subapplicant Mitigation Plan Requirement

There is no mitigation plan requirement for development of a new mitigation plan.

All subapplicants for PDM and FMA must have a FEMA-approved local or Tribal Mitigation 

Plan by the application deadline and at the time of obligation of grant funds for mitigation 

projects. All subapplicants for HMGP must have a FEMA-approved local or Tribal Mitigation 

Plan at the time of obligation of grant funds for mitigation projects. 

State agencies are eligible subapplicants under HMGP, PDM, or FMA, and a State Mitigation 

Plan under 44 CFR Part 201 is required as a condition of the State agencies receiving assistance 

as defined in 44 CFR Section 201.4. State agencies with assets identified in the State Mitigation 

Plan meet the mitigation planning requirement. PNP subapplicants are eligible for HMGP but 

do not have mitigation plan requirements as a condition of subapplicant eligibility.

E.5.3 Extraordinary Circumstances

For HMGP project subawards, the Regional Administrator may grant an exception to the local 

or Tribal Mitigation Plan requirement in extraordinary circumstances when justification is 

provided. If this exception is granted, a local or Tribal Mitigation Plan must be approved by 

FEMA within 12 months of the award of the project subaward to that community.

For PDM and FMA project subawards, the Region may grant an exception to the local or Tribal

Mitigation Plan requirement in extraordinary circumstances. For PDM and FMA project 

subawards, the Region may apply extraordinary circumstances when justification is provided and 

with concurrence from FEMA Headquarters (Risk Reduction and Risk Analysis Divisions) prior 

to granting an exception. If this exception is granted, a local or Tribal Mitigation Plan must be 

approved by FEMA within 12 months of the award of the project subaward to that community.

For HMGP, PDM, and FMA, extraordinary circumstances exist when a determination is made 

by the Applicant and FEMA that the proposed project is consistent with the priorities and 

strategies identified in the State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan and that the 

jurisdiction meets at least one of the criteria below. If the jurisdiction does not meet at least one 

of the following criteria, the Region must coordinate with FEMA Headquarters (Risk Reduction 

Part III. Eligibility Information 45
and Risk Analysis Divisions) for HMGP; however, for PDM and FMA the Region must

coordinate and seek concurrence prior to granting an exception:

♦ The jurisdiction meets the small impoverished community criteria (see Part VIII, B.2).

♦ The jurisdiction has been determined to have had insufficient capacity due to lack of 

available funding, staffing, or other necessary expertise to satisfy the mitigation planning 

requirement prior to the current disaster or application deadline.

♦ The jurisdiction has been determined to have been at low risk from hazards because of low 

frequency of occurrence or minimal damage from previous occurrences as a result of sparse 

development.

♦ The jurisdiction experienced significant disruption from a declared disaster or another event 

that impacts its ability to complete the mitigation planning process prior to award or final 

approval of a project award.

♦ The jurisdiction does not have a mitigation plan for reasons beyond the control of the State,

federally-recognized tribe, or local community, such as Disaster Relief Fund restrictions that 

delay FEMA from granting a subaward prior to the expiration of the local or Tribal

Mitigation Plan.

For HMGP, PDM, and FMA, the Applicant must provide written justification that identifies the 

specific criteria from above or circumstance, explains why there is no longer an impediment to 

satisfying the mitigation planning requirement, and identifies the specific actions or 

circumstances that eliminated the deficiency.

When an HMGP project funding is awarded under extraordinary circumstances, the Recipient

shall acknowledge in writing to the Regional Administrator that a plan will be completed within 

12 months of the subaward. The Recipient must provide a work plan for completing the local or 

Tribal Mitigation Plan, including milestones and a timetable, to ensure that the jurisdiction will 

complete the plan in the required time. This requirement shall be incorporated into the award 

(both the planning and project subaward agreements, if a planning subaward is also awarded).

E.5.4 Tribal Hazard Mitigation Plan Requirement

Federally-recognized tribes with an approved Tribal Mitigation Plan in accordance with 44 CFR 

Section 201.7 may apply to FEMA for assistance as an Applicant. Non-federally recognized

tribes with an approved Tribal Mitigation Plan in accordance with 44 CFR Section 201.7 also 

may apply to FEMA for assistance as a subapplicant. If a federally-recognized tribe with an 

approved Tribal Mitigation Plan in accordance with 44 CFR Section 201.7 coordinates the 

review of its Tribal Mitigation Plan with the State, it has the option to apply as a subapplicant 

through that State or another federally-recognized tribe.

Part III. Eligibility Information 46
E.5.5 Conformance with Hazard Mitigation Plans

Projects submitted for consideration for HMA funding must be consistent with the goals and 

objectives identified in the current, FEMA-approved State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) 

Mitigation Plan as well as the local or Tribal Mitigation Plan for the jurisdiction in which the 

activity is located. 

Often, States as subrecipients administer awards for State assets. In these instances, the State is 

required to have a FEMA-approved State Mitigation Plan, and there is no local or Tribal

Mitigation Plan requirement. A local or Tribal Mitigation Plan is not required where the State or 

PNP is a subapplicant and the State or PNP provides justification demonstrating the following 

conformance criteria with the State Mitigation Plan:

♦ The statewide initiative or program is consistent with the goals and objectives identified in

the current, FEMA-approved State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan.

♦ The project(s) will be administered by the State or PNP as a statewide initiative or program.

♦ The State or PNP is not applying on behalf of a local government or federally-recognized

tribe that is eligible for extraordinary circumstances or otherwise circumventing the local or

Tribal Mitigation Plan requirement.

♦ The communities in which the projects are located do not have any financial interest in the

subaward (e.g., property ownership, long-term maintenance) or significant authority over the

projects (with the exception of permits under current building codes).

For example, the State may be the subrecipient for statewide initiatives such as statewide safe 

room or generator programs on behalf of individuals, businesses, and/or PNPs, not on behalf of 

jurisdictions. Where there is a local or tribal planning requirement (as subrecipient), statewide 

plans will not be accepted as multi-jurisdictional plans per 44 CFR Section 201.6(a)(4). 

E.6 Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Requirements 

HMA programs, and grants awarded pursuant to 

these programs, must conform to 44 CFR Parts 9 

and 10 (or FD 108-1) and with all applicable EHP 

laws, implementing regulations, and EOs, including 

but not limited to NEPA, the National Historic 

Preservation Act (NHPA), the Endangered Species 

Act (ESA), EO 11988 (Floodplain Management), 

EO 11990 (Protection of Wetlands), and EO 12898 

(Environmental Justice). EHP requirements ensure 

and document appropriate consideration of reasonable alternatives by taking the project’s 

impacts to the human environment into account in the decision-making process. The project, 

when completed, must comply with all applicable EHP laws and regulations as a condition of 

Part III. Eligibility Information 47

PRACTICABLE ALTERNATIVES 

DEFINITION

Practicable means capable of being done 

within existing constraints. The test of 

what is practicable depends on the 

situation and includes consideration of all 

relevant factors, such as environment, 

cost, and technology.
award eligibility, in addition to any conditions that may be imposed on the award during the EHP 

review compliance process. 

FEMA reviews the completeness of the responses to the questions in the EHP review section of 

the project subapplication and any supporting documentation. HMA project subapplications 

must include the required information for each property identified in the subapplication. For 

example, information needs may include detailed scopes of work, clearly labeled maps, photos of 

buildings, ages of all buildings and structures, and copies of any coordination letters with other 

agencies. FEMA utilizes this information to complete and document the EHP compliance review 

process. A lack of information may delay the identification of outstanding EHP compliance 

requirements and project implementation. Also, failing to provide the required information by 

the application deadline may prohibit FEMA from making an award or subaward. 

FEMA has developed guidance to assist in completing the EHP information section of a project 

subapplication, including an eLearning Tool, online training, and information about historic 

preservation. For links to these EHP resources, see Part IX, C.5. Technical assistance is also 

available via the toll-free Project Technical Assistance for Environmental & Historic 

Preservation Helpline (866) 222-3580 or via e-mail at ehhelpline@fema.dhs.gov. 

E.6.1 Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands

As noted in Part III, E.6, all activities funded by 

HMA programs must conform to 44 CFR Part 9. 

Proposed actions triggering the 8-Step Decision 

Making Process for Floodplain Management and 

Wetlands Considerations (see HMA Job Aid, 8-

Step Decision Making Process for Floodplain 

Management and Wetlands Considerations) will 

only be eligible for a grant if the Applicant or 

subapplicant demonstrates that there is no 

practicable alternative in accordance with 44 

CFR Sections 9.9 through 9.11. HMA funds 

cannot be used to fund new construction or 

Substantial Improvements in a floodway or new 

construction in a Coastal High Hazard Area

unless it constitutes a functionally dependent use 

or facilitates an open space use. However, the 

costs to elevate or floodproof a damaged 

structure or facility are not included in 

determining whether the Substantial 

Improvement threshold is triggered. 

For additional information see 44 CFR Section 9.11(d). 

Part III. Eligibility Information 48

DECISION-MAKING FOR CRITICAL 

ACTION VS. CRITICAL FACILITY

Critical action is an action for which even a 

slight chance of flooding poses too great of a 

risk. It may or may not be associated with a 

critical facility. FEMA is responsible for 

determining if an action is a critical action. If 

a critical action is identified, FEMA must 

evaluate potential harm to the action from 

the 500-year flood.

Critical facilities are structures and 

institutions that are deemed by the local 

community and other jurisdictions as critical 

to the continuity of the community before, 

during, and after an event. Although the 

affected jurisdiction has the primary 

responsibility for determining what structures 

and institutions are critical facilities, FEMA 

reserves the right to make a final 

determination as needed to support the 

review and approval of an HMA project 

application.
E.7 National Flood Insurance Program Eligibility Requirements

HMA eligibility is related to the NFIP as follows:

♦ Subapplicant Eligibility: All subapplicants for FMA must be participating in the NFIP, and 

not be withdrawn or suspended, to be eligible to apply for grant funds. Certain political 

subdivisions (i.e., regional flood control districts or county governments) may apply and act 

as subrecipients if they are part of a community that is participating in the NFIP where the 

political subdivision provides zoning and building code enforcement or planning and 

community development professional services for that community.

♦ Project Eligibility: HMGP and PDM mitigation project subapplications for projects sited 

within an SFHA are eligible only if the jurisdiction in which the project is located is 

participating in the NFIP. There is no NFIP participation requirement for HMGP and PDM

project subapplications for projects located outside of the SFHA.

♦ Mitigation Planning Eligibility: There are no NFIP participation requirements for HMGP

and PDM hazard mitigation planning subapplications. However, under FMA, the 

subapplicant must be participating in the NFIP to be eligible for planning funding. 

♦ Property Eligibility: Properties included in a project subapplication for FMA funding must 

be NFIP insured at the time of the application submittal. Flood insurance must be maintained 

for the life of the structure.

E.7.1 Special Flood Hazard Area Requirements

For structures that remain in the SFHA after the implementation of the mitigation project, flood 

insurance must be maintained for the life of the structure to an amount at least equal to the 

project cost or to the maximum limit of coverage made available with respect to the particular 

property, whichever is less. The maximum limit of coverage made available is defined as the 

replacement cost value of the structure up to $250,000 for residential and $500,000 for nonresidential. Insurance coverage on the property must be maintained during the life of the 

property regardless of transfer of ownership of such property.

The subrecipient (or property owner) must legally record, with the county or appropriate 

jurisdiction’s land records, a notice that includes the name of the current property owner 

(including book/page reference to record of current title, if readily available), a legal description 

of the property, and the following notice of flood insurance requirements: 

This property has received Federal hazard mitigation assistance. Federal law 

requires that flood insurance coverage on this property must be maintained during 

the life of the property regardless of transfer of ownership of such property. 

Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 5154a, notwithstanding any other provision of law, no 

Federal disaster relief assistance made available in a flood disaster area may be 

used to make a payment (including any loan assistance payment) to a person for 

Part III. Eligibility Information 49
repair, replacement, or restoration for damage to any personal, residential, or 

commercial property if that person at any time has received flood disaster 

assistance that was conditional on the person first having obtained flood insurance 

under applicable Federal law and subsequently having failed to obtain and 

maintain flood insurance as required under applicable Federal law on such 

property. The property owner is also required to maintain this property in 

accordance with the floodplain management criteria of 44 CFR Section 60.3 and 

any city/county ordinance. 

Applicants/subapplicants receiving assistance for projects sited in an SFHA must ensure that 

these requirements are met by requesting that the participating property owner(s) sign an 

Acknowledgement of Conditions for Mitigation of Property in an SFHA with FEMA Grant Funds

form and providing the form to FEMA prior to award or final approval. This form is available 

on the FEMA website at http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3592 or can be 

provided by the appropriate FEMA Regional Office (for Regional Office information, see Part 

VII). Properties that do not meet these requirements will not be eligible to receive assistance 

under the HMA programs. 

If an approved HMA project affects the accuracy of an applicable Flood Insurance Rate Map 

(FIRM) or requires a map amendment to meet a locally adopted floodplain management 

ordinance, the subrecipient is responsible for ensuring that the appropriate map amendments or 

revisions are made. Costs associated with these map amendments are to be identified in the cost 

estimate section of a subaward application and may be eligible costs under the HMA programs. 

E.8 Statutory, Regulatory, and Other Requirements

Mitigation activities must adhere to all 

relevant statutes, regulations, and 

requirements, including (this list is not all 

inclusive, See Part IX, Appendix D for full 

citations): 

♦ Sections 203 (PDM) and 404 (HMGP)

of the Stafford Act

♦ Section 1366 (FMA) of the NFIA

♦ Section 322 of the Stafford Act

(Mitigation Planning)

♦ Section 324 of the Stafford Act

(Management Costs)

♦ NHPA (36 CFR Part 800)

Part III. Eligibility Information 50

FEDERAL LAWS PROHIBITING 

DISCRIMINATION IN EMERGENCY PROGRAMS 

ON THE BASIS OF DISABILITY

• Rehabilitation Act of 1973

• Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

• Stafford Act of 1988

• Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform

Act of 2006

• Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988

• Architectural Barriers Act of 1968

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

of 1975

• Telecommunications Act of 1996

• Twenty-First Century Communications and

Video Accessibility Act of 2010
♦ NEPA (44 CFR Part 10 or FD 108-1)

♦ URA and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act of 1970

♦ Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands (EO 11988, EO 11990, 44 CFR Part 9)

♦ Other EHP Considerations (including ESA)

♦ CBRA (44 CFR Part 206, Subpart J)

♦ Uniform Administrative Requirements, Cost Principles, and Audit Requirements for Federal

Awards (2 CFR Part 200)

♦ Floodplain Management (44 CFR Part 60)

♦ Flood Mitigation Grants (44 CFR Part 79)

♦ Property Acquisition and Relocation for Open Space (44 CFR Part 80)

♦ Hazard Mitigation Planning (44 CFR Part 201)

♦ HMGP (44 CFR Part 206, Subpart N)

♦ Management Costs (44 CFR Part 207)

♦ OMB Circular A-94, Guidelines and Discount Rates for Benefit-Cost Analysis of Federal

Programs

♦ Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) Subpart 31.2, Contracts with Commercial

Organizations

♦ Other applicable Federal, State, territory, Tribal, and local laws, implementing regulations,

and EOs

Part III. Eligibility Information 51
PART IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION 

INFORMATION

Part IV provides guidance on developing HMA applications or subapplications and on related 

funding restrictions.

A. Address to Request Application Package

Applications for HMGP are processed through NEMIS. Applicants must use the Application 

Development Module of NEMIS to create project applications and submit them to the 

appropriate FEMA Region in digital format for the relevant disaster. For NEMIS Helpdesk 

resources, see Part IX, C.6.

Applications for PDM and FMA are processed through the eGrants system. The eGrants system 

encompasses the entire grant application process and provides the means to electronically create, 

review, and submit a grant application to FEMA via the Internet. Applicants and subapplicants 

can access eGrants at https://portal.fema.gov/famsVuWeb/home. 

The FEMA Enterprise Service desk (for eGrants issues) phone number is 1 (877) 611-4700. For

eGrants Helpdesk resources, see Part IX, C.6. 

For more information about using NEMIS or eGrants, contact the appropriate FEMA Regional 

Office (see Part VII). 

B. Content and Form of Application

For HMGP, subapplication packages are available from eligible Applicants following 

Presidential major disaster declarations. The Applicant selects and prioritizes subapplications 

and submits them to FEMA. Applicants must submit the information required in FEMA Form 

(FF) 009-0-111A, Grantees and Sub-Grantees Quarterly Progress Reports HMGP, before 

HMGP funding can be obligated. The Applicant submits the subapplications in digital format 

via NEMIS and in hard copy format.

Applications and subapplications for PDM and FMA are submitted via the eGrants system. If a 

subapplicant does not use the eGrants system, the Applicant must enter the paper 

subapplication(s) into the eGrants system on the subapplicant’s behalf. Blank applications that 

conform to the eGrants format are available for printing from the eGrants system and the FEMA 

website. Supporting documentation that cannot be electronically attached to the eGrants 

application (e.g., engineering drawings, photographs, maps) must be submitted to the appropriate 

FEMA Regional Office. The entire application, including FF 009-0-111A, and all paper 

documentation must be received by the appropriate FEMA Regional Office no later than the 

application deadline.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 52
C. Submission Dates and Times

HMGP submittal deadlines for applications are established based on the Presidential major 

disaster declaration date. For submission of an application for HMGP, see Part VIII, A.1 and 

A.7.

Completed applications for PDM and FMA must be submitted to FEMA through eGrants. 

Application submission due dates and times are posted to the HMA website at 

https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance. Subapplicants should consult the official 

designated point of contact (POC) for their Applicant for more information regarding the 

application process. For more information on FEMA and Applicant contacts, see Part VII. For 

additional information on HMA application cycles, contact FEMA or go to 

http://www.grants.gov/.

D. Intergovernmental Review

Allowing sufficient time for an intergovernmental review of an application may be necessary as 

established by EOs 12372 and 12416 (Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs). If an 

Applicant has chosen not to participate in the intergovernmental review process, the application 

may be sent directly to FEMA. Guidance on the intergovernmental review process, including the 

names and addresses of the single POCs as listed by OMB, is available at 

http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants_spoc.

E. Funding Restrictions

HMA programs allow the funding of eligible costs for mitigation activities as outlined in Part III, 

E.1. Subapplications that propose a Federal expenditure in excess of the Federal funding limit

will not be considered for an award. For each program, additional funding restrictions apply as 

described below.

E.1 HMGP Funding Restrictions

For HMGP, the following funding restrictions apply:

♦ Up to 7 percent of the Recipient’s HMGP ceiling may be used for mitigation planning 

activities in compliance with 44 CFR Section 201.3(c)(4).

♦ Up to 5 percent of the Recipient’s HMGP ceiling may be used for mitigation measures that 

are difficult to evaluate against traditional program cost-effectiveness criteria (i.e., the 

5 Percent Initiative). 

♦ For Presidential major disaster declarations for all hazards, an additional 5 percent of the 

Recipient’s HMGP ceiling may be used to fund hazard mitigation measures. Recipients and 

subrecipients must adopt disaster-resistant building codes or an improved Building Code 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 53
Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS) score as a condition of the award (prior to 

closeout). 

For more information on the 5 Percent Initiative and the additional 5 percent for all hazards, see 

Part VIII, A.14. 

E.2 PDM Funding Restrictions

For PDM, the following funding restrictions apply: 

♦ Up to $3 million Federal share may be requested in a subapplication to implement a

mitigation project.

♦ The cumulative Federal award for subapplications awarded during a single application cycle

to any one Applicant shall not exceed 15 percent of the total appropriated PDM funds for that

application cycle.

E.3 FMA Funding Restrictions

For FMA, the following funding restrictions apply: 

♦ Individual planning grants using FMA funds

shall not exceed $50,000 to any Applicant or

$25,000 to any subapplicant.

♦ FMA funds can only be used for the flood

hazard component of a hazard mitigation plan

that meets the planning criteria outlined in 44 CFR Part 201.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 54

MAXIMUM AMOUNTS OF

FMA MITIGATION PLANNING GRANT

Under FMA, the maximum individual planning 

grant is $50,000 for any Applicant and 

$25,000 for any subapplicant.

E.4 Management Costs Funding Restrictions

For all HMA programs, indirect costs may be included as a part of the management cost estimate 

shown in the application or subapplication. 

For HMGP only: The Recipient may request a flat percentage rate (4.89 percent) of the projected 

eligible program costs for management costs. The Recipient is responsible for determining the 

amount, if any, of funds that will be passed through to the subrecipient(s) for their management 

costs. For further information on HMGP management costs, see Part VIII, A.2.5 and A.5. 

Applicants for PDM and FMA may apply for a maximum of 10 percent of the total funds 

requested in their grant application budget (Federal and non-Federal shares) for management

costs to support the project and planning subapplications included as part of their grant 

application. Applicants requesting Applicant management costs must submit a separate 

Management Costs subapplication in eGrants. This subapplication must be included in the 

overall grant application or the request will not be considered. Applicants who are not awarded 
grants funds for project or planning activities will not receive reimbursement for the 

corresponding costs incurred in developing and submitting applications. 

Subapplicants for PDM and FMA may apply for a maximum of 5 percent of the total funds 

requested in a subapplication for management costs. Subapplicants requesting management 

costs must include them in the project or planning subapplication for consideration as separate 

activities in the Mitigation Activity section of eGrants. Subapplicants who are not awarded 

subawards for project or planning activities will not receive reimbursement for the corresponding 

costs incurred in developing and submitting subapplications. 

F. Other Submission Requirements

This section discusses the consideration of applications under multiple HMA programs and preaward costs.

F.1 Application Consideration under Multiple HMA Programs

FEMA will only consider applications and subapplications submitted to a specific HMA 

program. If an Applicant would like to have a subapplication considered under multiple HMA 

programs, the Applicant must submit that subapplication to each HMA program separately. 

F.2 Pre-award Costs

Costs incurred after the HMA application period has opened, but prior to the date of the Federal 

award or final approval, are identified as pre-award costs. For HMGP, the opening of the 

application period is the date when HMGP is authorized, which is generally the date of the 

Presidential major disaster declaration. The opening of the application period for PDM and 

FMA is established annually by FEMA via the Notice of Funding Opportunity announcement. 

Pre-award costs directly related to developing the application or subapplication may be funded 

through HMA as funds are available. Such costs may have been incurred, for example, to 

develop a BCA, to gather EHP data, for preparing design specifications, or for workshops or 

meetings related to development and submission of HMA applications and subapplications. 

Costs associated with implementation of the activity but incurred prior to Federal award or final 

approval are not eligible (projects initiated or completed prior to Federal award or full approval 

of the project are not eligible). Pre-award management costs count towards the 5 percent limit

for subrecipient management costs. To be eligible for HMA funding, pre-award costs must be 

identified as separate line items in the cost estimate of the subapplication. Applicants and 

subapplicants may identify such pre-award costs as their non-Federal cost share. Applicants and 

subapplicants who are not awarded grants or subawards will not receive reimbursement for the 

corresponding pre-award costs. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 55
G. Applicant Guidance

This section discusses general Applicant guidance and minimum eligibility criteria.

G.1 General Applicant Guidance

FEMA will not direct the Applicant on how to submit its applications. The Applicant may 

submit a single application representing all subapplications or they may submit multiple 

applications. When multiple subapplications are submitted, they should be ranked in priority 

order. Before forwarding subapplications to FEMA, Applicants also should review 

subapplications to document that: 

♦ The subapplicant has documented its capacity to manage the subaward funds.

♦ The subapplicant has documented its capacity to complete the mitigation activity in the time

specified.

♦ Non-Federal cost-share funds are or will be available for the project.

♦ The maintenance requirements have been sufficiently identified, and the subapplicant or

another authorized entity has accepted the maintenance responsibility.

♦ The underlying cost-effectiveness data are accurate and complete.

♦ All program- and project-specific requirements have been met and are documented as

appropriate.

If the subapplication is considered to be deficient, the Applicant may revise or augment the 

subapplication in consultation with the subapplicant. Applicants must certify that they have 

evaluated the activities included in each subapplication and that activities will be implemented in 

accordance with 2 CFR Part 200 and other applicable program or activity type requirements. 

G.2 Minimum Eligibility Criteria

FEMA does not accept incomplete and placeholder 

project applications. Incomplete applications or 

subapplications delay project approval because they 

do not contain sufficient information for FEMA to 

make program eligibility determinations. 

Applications and subapplications submitted to 

FEMA must meet the minimum eligibility criteria for all submittals as eligibility cannot be 

determined without these data. Additional information may be requested during FEMA review. 

The following list of eligibility criteria is not all inclusive. For more detailed minimum

eligibility criteria, see Part IX, Appendix F for projects and Part IX, Appendix G for plans. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 56

MINIMUM ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Applications and subapplications submitted 

to FEMA must meet the minimum eligibility

criteria. See updated Minimum Eligibility 

Checklists in Part IX, Appendices F and G.
Unless otherwise noted, the following criteria apply to applications and subapplications: 

♦ Eligible Applicant and Subapplicant 

♦ FEMA-Approved Mitigation Plan

− Meets all plan requirements per 44 CFR Parts 201 and 206 

♦ SOW

− Provides a detailed SOW as described in Part IV, H

♦ Work Schedule 

− Provides a work schedule of 3 years or less 

♦ Cost Estimate

− Provides a detailed cost estimate/budget that supports the SOW and documents 

required non-Federal cost share

♦ Cost Share 

− Provides non-Federal cost share that meets program eligibility requirements (see Part 

III, C)

♦ Cost-Effectiveness and Feasibility (projects) 

− Includes a FEMA-approved BCA or FEMA-approved alternate cost-effectiveness 

documentation (see Part IV, I) 

− Is feasible and effective as demonstrated through conformance with accepted 

engineering practices, established codes, standards, modeling techniques, or best 

practices (see Part IV, J) 

♦ EHP Compliance (projects)

− Includes information and documentation for each property identified in the 

subapplication to demonstrate conformance with all applicable laws and regulations 

(e.g., NEPA and NHPA) 

− Demonstrates that project avoids or minimizes harm to the environment and is the best 

alternative from a range of options considered (see Part IV, K) 

♦ Assurance Forms

− FF-112-0-2, Budget Information Construction Programs

− FF-112-0-3, Summary Sheet for Assurances and Certifications

− FF-112-0-3A, Assurances – Non-construction Programs

− FF-112-0-3B, Assurances – Construction Program

− FF-112-0-3C, Certifications Regarding Lobbying, Debarment, Suspension and Other

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 57
H. Scoping Narrative: Scope of Work, Schedule, and Cost 

Estimate 

This section discusses information on the required components of the scoping narrative, 

consideration for management costs, planning applications for new or updated plans, scheduleand planning-related activities, and project applications.

H.1 Required Components

The application must include a description of the activities and anticipated outcomes as a means 

for FEMA to determine whether the activities are eligible, whether the Applicant can complete 

the activities within the POP, and whether the proposed costs are reasonable.

A scoping narrative describes the proposed activity and includes three elements: 

♦ SOW 

♦ Schedule 

♦ Cost estimate

The scoping narrative stipulates the deliverables, identifies the tasks required to complete the 

proposed activity, and defines the tasks to be accomplished in clear, concise, and meaningful 

terms. All cost elements must match tasks and provide sufficient detail for FEMA to determine 

whether the subapplication is eligible. The scoping narrative will become part of the conditions 

of the award. 

All activities must be identified in the scoping narrative prior to the close of the application 

period. 

The following are required elements of a scoping narrative for a planning or project 

subapplication: 

♦ Introductory Statement: The SOW starts with a short statement that describes the proposed 

activity and what will be accomplished by the end of the POP. 

♦ Activities Description: The SOW describes the proposed approach, outcomes, and level of 

effort, including key milestones and schedule, and the relationship of each activity to the cost 

estimate. The description explains how the outcomes will be reached. The responsible party 

for each task is identified. 

♦ Deliverables, Key Milestones, and Schedule: The schedule includes all tasks identified in 

the SOW and the relationship of each activity to the cost estimate. The schedule identifies 

major milestones with targets dates for meeting each milestone, including anticipated 

quarterly usage of Federal funds. Proposed schedules must not exceed the POP for the grant. 

Sufficient detail is provided so FEMA can determine whether the proposed activities can be 

accomplished within the POP. See Part VI, D.4. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 58
♦ Personnel: The SOW narrative identifies proposed staff and describes relevant experience

in managing proposed activities, contractors, and Federal awards.

♦ Task Management: The SOW narrative describes the methods the subapplicant will use to

manage the tasks and contractors, and monitor and report on progress, including proposed

accountability measures.

♦ Cost Estimate: The cost estimate matches the proposed level of effort from the SOW and

work schedule. Cost estimates include various cost item categories, such as labor, materials,

equipment, and subcontractor costs. Source materials used to support the cost estimate are

referenced and include sufficient detail so FEMA can determine whether costs are reasonable

based on proposed activities and level of effort.

− Cost Share: The cost estimate identifies the cost categories and value for anticipated 

cash and third-party in-kind contributions for meeting the non-Federal cost share.

− Pre-award Costs: To be eligible for HMA funding and/or as a cost-share, pre-award 

costs must be included as separate line items in the cost estimate. 

− Closeout: The subapplicant must document actual costs for eligible activities at 

closeout. 

− Ineligible Format: Lump-sum cost estimates are not eligible and will be NOT be 

accepted. 

− Contingency Cost: An allowance in the total cost estimate to cover situations that 

cannot be fully defined at the time the cost estimate is prepared, but that will likely 

result in additional eligible costs. See Part VI, D.3.4. A contingency cost should be 

included as a line item in the budget section of a project application. As with other 

line items in the budget, the subapplicant should justify the contingency estimate based 

on the nature of the proposed project. 

♦ Considerations for Management Cost, Project, or Planning Applications: The SOW

addresses unique considerations for the type of activities proposed. See Part IV, H.2, H.3, 

and H.4.

♦ Ranking Factors: The SOW explains how the activities will address the goals and

objectives or ranking factors of the relevant HMA program. For PDM and FMA, FEMA

will identify funding priorities in the Notice of Funding Opportunity announcement. For

HMGP, the pass-through entity may identify funding priorities.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 59
H.2 Considerations for Management Costs

Applicants will submit a separate management cost application if requesting managing costs. 

Subapplicants who are requesting management costs include management costs in their project 

or planning subapplication cost estimate. To determine whether management costs are available, 

see Part IV, E.4. For more information on HMGP management costs, see Part VIII, A.5. 

H.2.1 Activities Description

For the Applicant management cost subapplication, the SOW narrative describes the activities 

and specific tasks related to the entire grant cycle, from soliciting and developing subapplications 

to closing out Federal awards and audits. 

H.2.2 Personnel

The narrative describes personnel requirements for the proposed activities and indicates whether

contract support or consultants will be used. 

H.2.3 Cost Estimate

The cost estimate describes costs for which the Recipient and/or subrecipient will use 

management cost funding. The estimate provides information on how the funds will be 

expended and monitored and shows that sufficient funds will be available for closeout. 

H.3 Considerations for Planning Subapplications

Applicants and subapplicants must use applicable State, tribal, or local mitigation planning 

guidance to determine the specific requirements for new plans and plan updates regarding the 

planning process; hazard identification and risk assessment; mitigation strategy; plan review, 

evaluation, and implementation; and plan adoption. For State, tribal, or local mitigation planning 

guidance, see the FEMA Mitigation Planning webpage for current guidance: 

http://www.fema.gov/mitigation-planning-laws-regulations-guidance. The information below 

supplements Part IV, H.1 and provides specific requirements for planning subapplications. 

H.3.1 Activities Description 

The following elements must be included in the Activities Description: 

♦ Planning Area: The narrative describes the planning area, including any non-contiguous

land holdings or assets, and demographics. The description includes the proposed number

and names of participating governments, PNPs, or other partners.

♦ Planning Process: The narrative includes a description of the proposed planning process to

engage stakeholders and the public. The description explains the proposed role of the

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 60
planning team (steering committee). The description provides the anticipated number of 

meetings for the planning team, identifies stakeholders, and explains public outreach. 

♦ Previous Mitigation Planning: The narrative includes a description of previous mitigation

planning efforts, including an evaluation of the past plan as a basis to identify priorities for

plan updates.

♦ Available Data and Risk Assessment Process: The narrative identifies the process the

planning team will use to research, collect, analyze, and summarize hazard and risk data. If a

specific risk assessment methodology or software (e.g., Hazus) will be used in the risk

assessment process, the narrative describes how this will influence the level of effort,

timeframe, and planning costs. Subapplicants are advised to make use of existing data and

risk assessments when developing a new mitigation plan or updating a mitigation plan; the

narrative describes any known data sources to be used in the risk assessment. Similarly, if

the subapplicant intends to develop new risk data, the proposed process and sources must be

described as well.

♦ Development of Mitigation Strategy: The narrative describes the proposed process to

develop a mitigation strategy for each participating jurisdiction based on the risk assessment

completed for the plan. For State Mitigation Plans, this narrative can include Coordination of

Local Mitigation Planning, Severe Repetitive Loss Strategy, and Comprehensive State

Hazard Mitigation Planning Program.

♦ Plan Adoption: The narrative describes the plan drafting process, including State and

FEMA reviews (i.e., approval pending adoption), adoption by participating jurisdictions, and

final approval by FEMA.

H.3.2 Deliverables, Tasks, and Schedule

The following task-related elements must be included in the narrative:

♦ Deliverables: The narrative describes the deliverables for the proposed activity:

− A new or updated FEMA-approved mitigation plan consistent with mitigation 

planning regulations for State (44 CFR Sections 201.4 or 201.5), tribal (44 CFR 

Sections 201.7 or 201.5), or local governments (44 CFR Section 201.6), as well as the 

applicable mitigation planning guidance. See the FEMA Mitigation Planning webpage 

for current State, tribal, or local mitigation planning guidance: 

http://www.fema.gov/mitigation-planning-laws-regulations-guidance. 

− Any mitigation planning–related activities eligible under HMGP only that enhance an 

existing mitigation plan consistent with mitigation planning regulations for State (44 

CFR Sections 201.4 or 201.5), tribal (44 CFR Sections 201.7 or 201.5), or local 

governments (44 CFR Section 201.6), as well as the applicable mitigation planning 

guidance. See the FEMA Mitigation Planning webpage for current State, tribal, or 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 61
local mitigation planning guidance: http://www.fema.gov/mitigation-planning-lawsregulations-guidance. 

♦ Tasks: The tasks narrative describes the tasks, including the proposed planning process, as

well as any procurement.

♦ Schedule: The timeframe matches all tasks noted in the SOW. If the proposed activity is a

new or updated mitigation plan, the schedule includes tasks for draft review and allows

sufficient time for State and FEMA reviews; preparation of required revisions, if needed;

formal adoption by the jurisdiction(s); and FEMA approval within the POP.

H.3.2.1 Cost Estimate 

The cost estimate includes a line-item breakdown of costs associated with all elements described 

in the SOW, such as: 

♦ Meetings and public outreach, including the costs associated with what is necessary and

reasonable

♦ Data research and collection, including eligible mapping activities or risk assessment; if

using Hazus for flood, earthquake, or hurricane risk assessments, include costs for user

defined/provided hazard and inventory data

♦ Mitigation strategy development and prioritization

♦ Plan drafting, State and FEMA review, revisions, and final production

♦ Information dissemination activities (PDM only), including printing and advertising

♦ Professional development training, tuition, and travel for the purpose of carrying out the

planning tasks

♦ Administrative costs for the subapplicant to manage the planning process and contractor

♦ Management costs and pre-award costs, if applicable

H.3.2.2 Flood Mitigation Assistance 

FMA requires the completion of a FEMA-approved mitigation plan for mitigation projects. 

FMA funds can only support activities related to the flood portion of the plan. The narrative 

provided in the planning subapplication SOW must differentiate between activities that will be 

supported by FMA from other non-flood related tasks. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 62
H.4 Considerations for Project Subapplications

Applicants and subapplicants must use applicable project guidance to determine the specific 

requirements for the project type proposed and incorporate these requirements into the SOW

narrative, schedule, and cost estimate documentation. See the Addendum for property 

acquisition or relocation for open space, wildfire mitigation, safe rooms, mitigation 

reconstruction, structural elevation, and flood risk reduction projects. The information below 

supplements Part IV, H.1 and provides specific requirements for project subapplications. 

H.4.1 Property Location 

All properties to be mitigated must be identified, including alternate properties that may be 

substituted should a property be withdrawn. All properties, including alternate properties, must 

have all the required information to be considered complete. 

♦ Latitude/Longitude: Coordinates for proposed properties must be provided. This is an

eligibility requirement.

♦ Site Photographs: Pictures of the sides of buildings, foundation, roof, both sides of

infrastructure projects, and the surrounding project areas are required.

♦ Site Maps and Project Plans and Specifications: Refer to project-specific guidance in the

Addendum to determine the level of documentation needed for eligibility. Supporting

documentation must be from qualified, credible sources, such as design professionals or

government records.

H.4.2 Activities Description

The following elements must be included in the Activities Description:

♦ Methodology: Proposed conceptual designs must be provided either through an identified

industry standard or project plans and specifications.

− Deviations from Standard Procedures: Deviations from standard procedures, 

methods, techniques, and technical provisions of the applicable codes or best practices 

must be thoroughly explained and documented to determine eligibility and feasibility. 

− Project Components: Project-specific guidance is provided in the Addendum for a 

number of mitigation activities. Applicants should review the guidance to determine 

what elements should be addressed in the SOW narrative.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 63
H.4.3 Cost Estimate

The project cost estimate includes a line-item breakdown of all anticipated costs, including, as 

applicable:

♦ Costs for anticipated environmental

resource impact treatment or historic

property treatment measures

♦ Costs for engineering designs/specifications,

including hydrologic and hydraulic

studies/analyses required as an integral part of designing the project

♦ Construction/demolition/relocation costs, such as survey, permitting, site preparation, and

material/debris disposal costs

♦ All other costs required to implement the mitigation project, including any applicable

project-type specific costs identified in the Addendum of this guidance

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 64

EXAMPLES OF DIRECT COST CATEGORIES 

• Compensation of employees for work

performed under the award

• Costs of materials acquired, consumed, or

expended specifically for award purposes

For additional information about cost estimates for property acquisition and structure demolition 

or relocation projects, see Addendum, Part A; for safe room construction projects, see 

Addendum, Part C.3.2; for mitigation reconstruction, see projects Addendum, Part D.3.5; and for 

structure elevation projects, see Addendum, Part E.4.2. 

I. Cost-Effectiveness

FEMA will only consider applications that use a FEMA-approved methodology to demonstrate 

cost-effectiveness. This is typically demonstrated by the calculation of a BCR. Projects for 

which benefits exceed costs are generally considered cost effective. Benefits may include 

avoided damage, loss of function, and displacement. 

FEMA provides BCA software that allows Applicants to calculate a project BCR. Written

materials and training are also available. The FEMA BCA software utilizes the OMB Circular

A-94, Guidelines and Discount Rates for Benefit-Cost Analysis of Federal Programs. FEMA 

requires the use of approved BCA software (Version 5.0 or greater) to help ensure that 

calculations are consistent with OMB Circular A-94. The current software is available at the 

FEMA Regional Office or from the BCA Technical Assistance Helpline (see Part IV, I.11). 

If FEMA standard values are used, then no additional documentation is required. If non-standard 

values are used, then documentation is required. Documentation must be accurate and 

sufficiently detailed for the analysis to be validated. FEMA recommends that supporting 

documentation be obtained from credible sources, such as a Flood Insurance Study. 

FEMA requires the submission of the BCA export file (.zip file format) for mitigation projects 

submitted to HMA programs. For HMGP, the BCA export file (.zip file format) is required prior 

to FEMA approval. For the PDM and FMA programs, the BCA export file (.zip file format) is 
required at the time of project submission. Applicants and subapplicants that do not have the 

ability to submit a BCA export file in a .zip file format can submit a .pdf of the BCA file and 

submit a Data Documentation Template.

Data associated with the various methodologies for analyzing cost-effectiveness are available 

from the appropriate FEMA Regional Office (see Part VII) or the BCA Technical Assistance 

Helpline (see Part IX, C.3). 

I.1 Substantial Damage Waiver

An expedited cost-effectiveness methodology is available for property acquisition projects when 

certain conditions are met. The acquisition of structures that are declared Substantially Damaged 

(from any origin) and located in a riverine SFHA on a preliminary or effective FIRM is

considered cost effective. If this methodology is used, the project application should include a 

certification that the structures meet these conditions.

I.2 Aggregation

An evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of a project should include all activities included in the 

SOW. This may include activities in multiple jurisdictions. It may also include combining 

benefits from multiple activities and multiple hazards, such as wind and flood, if part of the same 

project.

I.3 5 Percent Initiative

For 5 Percent Initiative subapplications for HMGP funding, a narrative description of the 

project’s cost-effectiveness must be provided. For more information on the 5 Percent Initiative, 

see Part VIII, A.14. 

I.4 Pre-calculated Benefits (Safe Rooms)

For safe room construction projects, an expedited cost-effectiveness methodology is available 

that identifies the benefits associated with certain types of safe rooms (see HMA Job Aid, Safe 

Room Project Application Using Pre-Calculated Benefits). If this methodology is used, the 

submitted project application should include a copy of the data relevant to the project location. 

I.5 Greatest Savings to the Fund

FEMA also allows for the use of the GSTF data and methodology to demonstrate costeffectiveness for properties included in mitigation projects under HMA. 

The GSTF calculation measures the expected savings of a mitigation project over a specific time 

period, usually 30 years or 100 years, depending on the mitigation project. For instance, an 

elevation project would use the 30-year GSTF value, and an acquisition project would use the 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 65
100-year GSTF value. Using past NFIP claims, the total expected future insurance claims can be 

projected. GSTF is calculated by subtracting total expected future insurance premiums from 

expected future claim payments.

I.6 Environmental Benefits

FEMA has identified and quantified environmental 

benefits for mitigation activities. Incorporating 

environmental benefits into the overall quantification 

of benefits for acquisition-related activities supports 

the Flood Insurance and Mitigation Administration’s

(FIMA’s) mission of risk reduction, environmental 

compliance, and preservation of the natural and 

beneficial functions of the floodplain. 

Specifically, FEMA developed economic values for green open space and riparian areas. FEMA 

incorporated the environmental benefits for green open space and riparian areas into the BCA 

toolkit for acquisition projects. 

The economic value for green open space is $7,853 per acre per year. For riparian areas, the 

economic value is $37,493 per acre per year. When incorporating these values into FEMA’s 

BCA, the yearly benefits accrue over the 100-year project useful life and are discounted at 

7 percent per year to meet OMB requirements. Table 4 provides the green open space and 

riparian benefits per acre per year and per square foot. 

Table 4: Green Open Space and Riparian Benefits 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 66

INCLUSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL 

BENEFITS INTO THE BCA TOOLKIT

Green open space and riparian benefits 

have been identified and quantified for 

acquisition projects. The BCR for an 

acquisition project must be at least 0.75 

before the environmental benefit can be 

incorporated.

Land Use Total Estimated Benefits

(per acre per year)

Total Estimated Benefits(1)

(per square foot) 

Green Open Space $7,853 $2.57 

Riparian $37,493 $12.29 

(1) Projected for 100 years with 7 percent discount rate

For an acquisition project, the BCR for a project must be at least 0.75 before incorporating the 

environmental benefit. This ensures projects funded by HMA are primarily associated with risk 

reduction activities. Once a project’s BCR reaches at least 0.75, the appropriate environmental 

benefit can be included for the individual properties. 

I.7 Pre-calculated Benefits for Acquisitions and Elevations in 

Special Flood Hazard Areas 

Based on extensive analysis, pre-calculated benefits have been determined for acquisition and 

elevation projects located in SFHAs. This analysis demonstrates a national average for benefits 

of $276,000 for acquisition projects and of $175,000 for elevation projects. Therefore, FEMA 
has determined that the acquisition or elevation of a structure located in the 100-year floodplain 

for which costs are equal to or less than the amount of benefits noted above is cost effective. For 

projects that contain multiple structures, the average cost of all structures in the project must 

meet the stated criterion. There is no need for Recipients to conduct a separate BCA for a 

structure that meets this criterion. 

Additionally, the specific geographic location of structures can greatly increase acquisition and 

elevation costs. The benefits identified above may be adjusted by the Recipient and subrecipient 

using locality multipliers that are included in industry-accepted cost and pricing guides for 

construction. If a multiplier is used, a copy of the source document must be included as part of 

the grant application for review and the methodology demonstrated for the increase of benefits. 

Also, the Recipient or subrecipient should use the most up-to-date locality multiplier at the time 

of application. 

To qualify for these pre-calculated benefits, Recipients must include maps with each structure’s

footprint clearly identified and the SFHA delineated as part of the grant application. If the 

structure or any part of the structure lies in the 100-year SFHA, the structure can utilize the precalculated benefits. 

If the Applicant cannot clearly demonstrate the structure is located in the SFHA, then the 

finished floor elevation (FFE) and BFE should be included in the BCA for each structure. If the 

FFE is less than BFE, structures can use the pre-calculated benefits. No other detailed analysis 

will be required. These pre-calculated benefits can be used for both riverine and coastal areas.

I.8 Integrating Sea Level Rise in Mitigation

Pursuant to 2011-OPPA-01, FEMA Climate Change 

Adaptation Policy Statement, the FEMA 

Administrator requires that considerations for climate 

change be incorporated into programs, policies, and 

operations. FEMA will now fund hazard mitigation 

projects that include sea level rise (SLR) estimates. 

To incorporate considerations for SLR in the development of a BCA, Recipients and 

subrecipients should add the estimated SLR to the current 10-, 25-, 50-, and 100-year flood 

elevations for their area. Generally, SLR can be included in flood elevations when conducting 

BCAs in coastal areas using the full data flood module. SLR can be applied to projects in any 

U.S. coastal area where relative SLR data are available. This includes areas subject to coastal 

flooding as identified in the current NFIP flood study or coastal rivers and streams located as far 

inland as the extent of estimated tidal influence or storm surge.

When performing structure elevation projects or projects that have freeboard requirements, SLR 

estimates should be added to the freeboard requirements that may have been adopted in local or 

State building codes. Refer to Incorporating Sea Level Rise (SLR) into Hazard Mitigation 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 67

INTEGRATING SEA LEVEL 

RISE IN MITIGATION

FEMA will now fund hazard mitigation 

projects that include SLR estimates.
Assistance (HMA) Benefit Cost-Analysis FAQs for additional information on the SLR 

(http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/89659).

I.9 Landslide Property Acquisition

HMA has developed a new methodology for 

calculating the BCR for the acquisition of 

properties in landslide hazard areas where there is 

an immediate threat of catastrophic slope failure 

(within 5 years of application development). This 

methodology is not included in Version 5.0 of the 

FEMA BCA Tool. Applicants are required to 

complete the BCA based on the building 

replacement value, number of occupants, and the project costs; the BCA tool will calculate all 

other values automatically using standard FEMA values and methodologies. The BCR 

calculation is demonstrated in a spreadsheet (see Landslide Acquisition Benefit Cost, Version 2 at 

www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/97249), and is based on having no recurrence 

interval, because once the landslide occurs, a catastrophic failure would occur, and the structure 

would not be subject to any further landslides. 

Benefits are based on the replacement value of the house, contents value, displacement costs, and 

5 percent of the economic value of fatalities. Costs are based on expenses required to purchase 

the house at the pre-event market value (similar to routine flood-hazard acquisitions). Applicants 

are required to attest that the structure is within 5 years of imminent collapse because of

landslide hazards. They may obtain this determination from a State or local professional 

geologist or engineer. If they hire a professional geologist or engineer to make the 

determination, the cost for those services is an eligible project activity. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 68

IMMEDIATE THREAT

An immediate threat is defined in 44 CFR 

Section 206.221(c) as “the threat of 

additional damage or destruction from an 

event which can reasonably be expected 

to occur within five years” (e.g., a 20 

percent chance of occurrence per year.) 

I.10 Pre-calculated Benefits for Residential Hurricane Wind Retrofit 

Measures

Hurricane wind retrofit projects are eligible for funding under the HMGP and PDM grant 

programs. The HMA Job Aid, Cost Effectiveness Determination for Residential Hurricane Wind 

Retrofit Measures Funded by FEMA, establishes the use of pre-calculated benefits, in lieu of 

conducting a complete BCA, for certain residential wind retrofit projects submitted to HMA for 

funding. A wind retrofit project is considered cost effective as long as the total project costs are 

less than the costs listed in Table 5. Applicants are not required to use the pre-determined 

benefit amounts to show cost-effectiveness, but using them will streamline the grant application 

process as an individual BCA will not need to be completed for every structure. 
Table 5: Pre-determined Benefit Amounts for Wind Retrofit Projects

Mitigation Package 

Type

Roof Replacement

Project Maximum Costs

Intermediate Protection No $13,153

Intermediate Protection Yes $24,920

Advanced Protection No $40,252

Advanced Protection Yes $52,018

To use these benefit amounts, the Applicant must meet the following requirements:

♦ Wind retrofit projects must be for residential

buildings, excluding manufactured homes, and

must comply with FEMA P-804.

♦ Residential structures must be located within the

120-mile-per-hour wind speed zone (per ASCE 7-

10), and Applicants must submit a map showing

the location of the project within the 120-mileper-hour wind speed zone.

− Areas that are eligible to use the pre-determined benefits are identified on the list of 

States and territories, and their associated counties, parishes, and boroughs, which is 

included in the HMA Job Aid, Cost Effectiveness Determination for Residential 

Hurricane Wind Retrofit Measures Funded by FEMA. 

The pre-determined benefits for wind retrofit projects cannot be combined with other benefits, 

such as those from the cost-effectiveness determination for acquisition and elevations or from the 

BCA toolkit. 

Eligible costs include inspection of the structure, determination of the appropriate mitigation 

package type, design of the retrofits and the associated labor and materials, and 

construction/post-construction inspections and certifications. 

I.11 Alternative BCA Methodologies

Other methods to demonstrate cost-effectiveness may be used when they address a noncorrectable flaw in the FEMA-approved methodologies or propose a new approach that is 

unavailable using current tools. New methodologies may be used only if FEMA approves the 

methodology before application submission. For more information on resources, see Part IX, 

C.3. 

For BCA policies, overview, and software, see http://www.fema.gov/benefit-cost-analysis.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 69

PRE-DETERMINED BENEFITS FOR 

WIND RETROFITS

Pre-calculated benefits can be used for

hurricane wind retrofit projects under the 

HMGP and PDM grant programs. These 

pre-determined benefits will streamline the 

cost-effectiveness determination for 

residential wind retrofit projects. 
J. Feasibility and Effectiveness Documentation

FEMA will use the information provided in the subapplication, including the SOW, the cost 

estimate, and supporting documentation to determine the feasibility and effectiveness of the 

proposed mitigation activity. FEMA accepts the engineering design for a project if a registered 

Professional Engineer (or other registered design professional) certifies that the design meets the 

appropriate code or industry design and construction standards. FEMA will accept the certified 

engineering design in lieu of a comprehensive technical feasibility review (see Part V, A.3). If 

accepted codes/standards are used, no additional documentation is required. See Part IX, 

Appendix D for examples of codes and standards used for various projects types.

If an alternative design is proposed, the application/subapplication should contain:

♦ Applicable building code/edition or engineering standard used 

♦ Level of protection provided by the proposed project and description of how the proposed 

activity will mitigate future losses

♦ For the retrofit of existing buildings or infrastructure protection projects, an assessment of the 

vulnerabilities of the existing building

♦ Any remaining risk to the structure after project implementation

♦ Proposed schematic drawings or designs (as applicable)

Project subapplications that do not include appropriate documentation to support the 

determination of feasibility and effectiveness may be removed from consideration. Upon 

request, FEMA will provide technical assistance regarding engineering documentation. 

For structure elevation and dry floodproofing activities, a statement must be included certifying 

that the project will be designed in conformance with ASCE 24-14 and will meet the feasibility 

and effectiveness requirement.

K. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation 

Documentation

Below is a general summary of the EHP compliance review process, including the requirements 

the Applicant/subapplicant must be complete before a Federal award may be made:

♦ Evaluate any potential effects to EHP resources and provide the required information and 

documentation to identify the impact on these resources.

♦ Complete any required consultation and/or coordination with the appropriate agencies (e.g., 

the State Historic Preservation Officer, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National 

Marine Fisheries Service) to evaluate potential effects of the proposed project and to identify 

any measures necessary to avoid or minimize these effects.

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 70
♦ Complete an evaluation of and document alternatives to the proposed action that will avoid

or minimize these impacts, including consideration of the environmental impact of taking no

action.

♦ Demonstrate that the project will incorporate any mitigation measures required to mitigate

the adverse effects on EHP resources.

♦ Ensure the costs of known measures to treat adverse effects are reflected in the project budget

estimate.

EHP compliance considers and documents the following resource types or actions: biological, 

water, coastal, pollution control, debris management, socioeconomic, historic, and cultural. 

The Applicant and subapplicant should ensure that the project SOW takes into account all 

potential EHP compliance issues and costs. To assist in the preparation of the subapplication, the 

Applicant/subapplicant must complete the EHP Checklist and provide information and 

documentation about potential impacts on the pertinent environmental and cultural resources in 

the project area. Any relevant information or studies related to EHP considerations identified 

and addressed in previous project planning activities by FEMA, another Federal agency, or an 

agency with designated Federal authority should also be provided and may be used to satisfy the 

EHP compliance requirements at FEMA’s discretion. For additional information, see Figure 4: 

Frontloading EHP, the Formal Review Process in Part II, the EHP Checklist in Part IX, 

Appendix E, and HMA Job Aids: (1) 8-Step Decision Making Process for Floodplain 

Management Considerations and Protection of Wetlands, (2) Section 106 Process under the 

National Historic Preservation Act, and (3) NEPA Flow Chart for HMA Projects. 

By utilizing the EHP Checklist, the Applicant/subapplicant will identify applicable information 

that must be provided to FEMA, such as a complete SOW narrative, documentation, maps, 

studies, or correspondence related to: 

♦ Biological resources: Any identified federally listed threatened or endangered species

and/or designated critical habitat potentially affected by the proposed project

♦ Water and biological resources: Vegetation, including amount (area), type, and extent to be

removed or affected

♦ Water resources: Identification of all surface waters in the project area regardless of

drainage area, size, or perceived hazard level. Information about surface waters should

include dimensions, proximity of the project activity to the water, and the expected and

possible impacts of the project on surface waters, if any.

♦ Coastal resources: Indication of whether the proposed project is located in a State’s

designated coastal zone or within a CBRS Unit or OPA

♦ Pollution control and debris management: Identification of any hazardous or toxic

materials that will affect the project, including studies, investigations, or enforcement actions

related to the project’s location

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 71
♦ Socioeconomic resources: A description of any adverse effects on low-income or minority 

populations in the project area

♦ Historic or cultural resources: The property address, original date of construction, and two 

color photographs for any buildings, structures, objects, or manmade sites/landscapes 

features that are 50 years or more in age. At least one of the two photographs of a building 

should be the front or primary façade showing the elevation. 

Should technical assistance be required to determine whether there are any EHP resources

associated with the proposed project, consult the following:

♦ HMA EHP Resources At-a-Glance Guide: A Practical Guide to Environmental & Historic 

Preservation Laws, Rules, and Tools: http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/30805

♦ HMA EHP at-a-Glance Guide Project Planning with Considerations for EHP Compliance: 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/26621

♦ NFIP Floodplain Management Bulletin: Historic Structures, FEMA P-467-2, May 2008

♦ Integrating Historic Property and Cultural Resource Considerations into Hazard Mitigation 

Planning: State and Local Mitigation Planning How-To Guide, FEMA 386-6, May 2005

♦ eLearning Tool for FEMA Grant Applicants: http://www.fema.gov/environmental-planningand-historic-preservation-program/elearning-tool-fema-grant-applicants-45

♦ IS-253.A: Overview of FEMA’s Environmental and Historic Preservation Review: 

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/courseOverview.aspx?code=is-253.a

♦ Unified Federal EHP Review Process: http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/98911

♦ FEMA EHP 2-page fact sheets: http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/93034

♦ EHP Helplines: (866) 222-3580 or ehhelpline@fema.dhs.gov

Although FEMA ultimately has the responsibility to ensure that a project is in compliance with 

Federal laws related to the environment and historic preservation, Applicants/subapplicants

should assist FEMA by identifying EHP reviews previously completed by other agencies, 

gathering data, and reaching out to stakeholders and regulatory agencies for pertinent 

information. If EHP issues are identified, the Applicant/subapplicant should initiate coordination 

with the relevant State and Federal agencies as early in the project planning stages as possible to 

address any potential EHP issues associated with proposed projects. This coordination does not 

substitute, and shall not be interpreted to mean, that formal consultation has occurred between 

FEMA and the applicable resource agency.

FEMA may identify additional EHP compliance review activities necessary to facilitate project 

approval, such as the completion of environmental impact statements, environmental 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 72
assessments, Phase I environmental site assessments, biological assessments, archeological or 

standing structures surveys and documentation, wetlands delineations, and air quality conformity 

analyses or determinations. Unanticipated costs and delays may occur if, during the formal EHP 

compliance review, FEMA identifies an award condition (e.g., acquiring permits, timing 

restrictions) or scope change necessary for the project to remain in compliance with EHP laws or 

determines that a project will adversely impact an environmental or cultural resource. The 

resolution of adverse impacts will be resolved through a consultation process potentially 

involving Federal, State, federally-recognized tribe, and external stakeholders. The exact 

outcome of consultation, and, therefore, the costs and time to resolve the impacts, will not be 

known until after project selection and consultation has concluded. The HMA program has the 

discretion to determine, on a project-by-project basis, whether FEMA or the 

Applicant/subapplicant will fund EHP mitigation measures to resolve adverse impacts.

Applicants/subapplicants may incur costs for significant EHP compliance review activities 

and/or EHP mitigation measures. FEMA will consider the following factors to determine

whether to reimburse costs: 

♦ Nature of the analysis or study required (e.g., environmental impact statement) and the

degree to which the activity is related to accomplishing the mitigation goals

♦ Costs of EHP activities compared to project costs

♦ Complexity of the proposed project

♦ Nature and extent of potential adverse impacts to environmental and/or historic resources

Applicants should consider potential EHP costs during application development and submission 

and should seek to avoid activities that may negatively impact EHP resources.

FEMA may remove projects from consideration for full approval and/or funding when EHP 

compliance review activities are not progressing and the Applicant/subapplicant has not 

dedicated resources and/or provided required and requested documentation in a timely manner.

For additional information on required EHP documentation, see Part IX, Appendix E. 

Part IV. Application and Submission Information 73
PART V. APPLICATION REVIEW 

INFORMATION

Part V provides information about the review process so that Applicants and subapplicants can 

prepare applications that meet FEMA review criteria. During an application review, FEMA may 

request additional information or documentation from Applicants. 

A. Review Criteria

While review processes vary somewhat among HMA programs, FEMA reviews all 

applications for: 

♦ Application eligibility review

♦ Technical review

− Cost-effectiveness

− Feasibility and effectiveness

− EHP compliance

A.1 Application Eligibility Review

FEMA will review all applications and subapplications for eligibility and completeness. 

Applications and subapplications that do not satisfy the eligibility and completeness 

requirements will not be funded. The eligibility and completeness requirements are outlined in 

Parts III, IV, and IX, Appendices F and G. 

A.2 Technical Review

FEMA will conduct a technical review for the following for all project subapplications that are 

forwarded from the initial FEMA review: cost-effectiveness, feasibility and effectiveness, and 

EHP compliance.

A.2.1 Cost-Effectiveness Review

FEMA will review the documentation provided in support of the subapplication costeffectiveness to validate the accuracy and credibility of data and ensure the appropriate use of the 

cost-effectiveness methodologies. Only subapplications meeting HMA cost-effectiveness 

requirements will be considered eligible. 

Part V. Application Review Information 74
A.2.2 Feasibility and Effectiveness Review

FEMA will use the information provided in the subapplication, including the SOW and project 

cost estimate sections, as well as any supporting documentation to determine the feasibility and 

effectiveness of the mitigation activity. 

For project subapplications, FEMA will consider the following criteria in reviewing feasibility 

and effectiveness: 

♦ Conformance to accepted engineering practices, established codes, standards, modeling

techniques, or best practices, as well as work schedule

♦ Effectiveness in mitigating the risks of the hazard(s)

♦ Reasonableness of the cost estimate

A.2.3 Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Review

Applicants and subapplicants are required to provide information to support the FEMA EHP 

compliance review. FEMA, in consultation with appropriate Federal and State resource 

agencies, will use the information provided in the application/subapplication, including the 

SOW, project cost estimate, as well as any supporting documentation, to ensure compliance with 

EHP requirements. 

As part of the EHP review process, FEMA will assess compliance with applicable laws, 

including NEPA, NHPA, ESA, CBRA, EO 11988 (Floodplain Management), EO 11990 

(Protection of Wetlands), and EO 12898 

(Environmental Justice). Funds will not be awarded, 

and the Applicant/subapplicant may not initiate the 

project, other than planning or preparatory work not 

involving construction or alteration of the land, until 

FEMA has completed this review and determines that 

the project, when completed, will comply with all 

EHP laws and regulations. 

FEMA accepts the engineering design for a project if 

a registered Professional Engineer (or other design 

professional) certifies that the design meets the 

appropriate code or industry design and construction 

standards. FEMA will accept the certified 

engineering design in lieu of the FEMA 

comprehensive technical feasibility review. For example, if a registered Professional Engineer 

certifies that design of a community safe room project meets or exceeds FEMA P-361 standards 

Part V. Application Review Information 75

HMA EFFICIENCIES

FEMA provides opportunities to 

streamline application requirements by 

allowing Applicants/subapplicants to 

use:

• FEMA technical publications

• National standards and codes

• ASCE 24-14 criteria

• Inclusion of environmental benefits in

BCA calculations

• Acquisition of properties in landslide

hazard areas

• Acquisition–Elevation pre-calculated

benefits

• Safe Room pre-calculated benefits

• Wind Retrofit pre-calculated benefits

A.3 HMA Efficiencies
for design and construction, FEMA will not perform a detailed design review to ensure 

compliance with the standard. 

Additionally, in the development of applications and subapplications, the following resources 

and approaches should be considered as they will promote efficiencies in FEMA review and 

approval. 

A.3.1 Safe Room Projects

Applicants must document that the proposed safe room project is consistent with the 

requirements of FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your 

Home or Small Business (2014), or FEMA P-361. Applicants must use the expedited HMGP

application for Residential Safe Rooms to apply pre-calculated benefits under HMGP (see HMA 

Job Aid, Safe Room Project Application Using Pre-Calculated Benefits). This pre-calculated 

benefit provides standardized benefits associated with residential safe rooms so that individual 

BCAs are not required, as long as the project costs do not exceed the benefits. If a 

subapplication complies with FEMA P-320 or FEMA P-361, no additional technical information 

is required in the subapplication. 

A.3.2 Wind Retrofit Projects

FEMA P-804 provides design guidance for wind-retrofit projects on existing one- and twofamily dwellings in coastal areas. Mitigation projects funded under HMGP and PDM are 

required to be implemented in conformance with FEMA P-804. If a subapplication complies 

with FEMA P-804, no additional technical information is required in the subapplication. 

A.3.3 Certain Flood Mitigation Projects

FEMA requires that certain HMA flood mitigation projects be designed and constructed in 

conformance with the design criteria of ASCE 24-14 as a minimum standard. FEMA will 

consider a project application that utilizes ASCE 24-14 as consistent with HMA engineering 

feasibility and effectiveness requirements. Project applications that do not use ASCE 24-14 must 

submit documentation to demonstrate the project meets the engineering feasibility and 

effectiveness requirement (see Addendum, Part F). 

B. Selection and Notification Process

This section presents information on the technical review, requests for information, selection, 

notification, and the reconsideration process. 

Part V. Application Review Information 76
B.1 Selection

FEMA selects eligible subapplications based on priorities set by the Applicant or program 

priorities, if applicable. For more information for HMGP, see Part VIII, A.4; for more 

information for PDM, see Part VIII, B.5; and for more information for FMA, see Part VIII, C.5.

PDM and FMA have specific ranking criteria in addition to those described in this part. For 

information about ranking criteria and the review and selection process for PDM, see Part VIII, 

B.4, and for FMA, see Part VIII, C.4.

B.2 Notification

For PDM and FMA, during the review and selection process, FEMA will notify Applicants as to 

whether subapplications have been identified for further review, determined eligible but will not 

be funded, or determined ineligible for funding. A determination of “identified for further 

review” is not notification or guarantee of an award. 

FEMA will work with Applicants on subapplications identified for further review. Applicants 

will be notified of activities required, such as an EHP review; verification of subapplicant 

commitments; verification of hazard mitigation plan status; and of the date by which all required 

activities must be completed. 

Comments may be provided by FEMA on subapplications determined ineligible so that 

subapplicants can modify their subapplications for resubmission in future grant cycles. 

B.3 Reconsideration Process

For PDM and FMA, FEMA will reconsider its determination of a subapplication evaluated on a 

competitive basis only when there is an indication of a substantive technical or procedural error 

by FEMA. Only information provided in the submitted subapplication is considered supporting 

documentation for the request for reconsideration. The amount of funding available for 

Applicant management costs will not be reconsidered.

FEMA may evaluate subapplications on a competitive basis when:

♦ Submitted subapplications exceed available funds

♦ Laws or regulations require the administration of a competitive program

♦ Circumstances merit the administration of funds in a competitive manner

Applicants must send requests for reconsideration based on technical or procedural error to 

FEMA within the time specified in the notification letter to the Applicant. A FEMA decision to 

uphold or overturn a decision regarding a subapplication evaluated on a competitive basis is 

final.

Part V. Application Review Information 77
B.3.1 Consideration of Additional Information

FEMA may, at its discretion, notify Applicants that it will consider additional information in 

support of a subapplication. 

FEMA will accept supplemental or corrected data in support of a subapplication when: 

♦ Submitted subapplications do not exhaust available program funds

♦ Laws or regulations do not require the administration of a competitive program

♦ Determined appropriate by the program office

Instructions for submitting supplemental data will be provided within the FEMA notification 

letter, if applicable.

For information on appeal and administration of HMGP subapplications, see Part VIII, A.15. 

C. Requests for Information

Part V. Application Review Information 78

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION

If a subapplication does not meet the 

administrative or procedural information 

requirements, FEMA may request 

additional information in the form of an RFI. 

If the Regional Administrator does not 

receive the requested information by the 

final deadline, the project will be denied.

FEMA may request additional information or documentation from Applicants to resolve 

outstanding administrative, procedural, or EHP requirements. For PDM and FMA, an RFI will 

not occur until after selection because of the competitive nature of the programs. RFIs can take 

various forms, including email requests, documented telephone calls, or formal letters. Failure to 

provide requested information by the final deadline identified in the request will result in denial, 

because eligibility cannot be determined. Technical assistance is available, if requested.

FEMA may ask for additional information or 

documentation from the Applicant/subapplicant, 

potentially through the RFI process, if information is 

lacking. FEMA may remove projects from 

consideration for full approval and/or funding when 

EHP compliance review activities are not 

progressing and the Applicant/subapplicant has not 

dedicated resources and/or provided required 

documentation in a timely manner.

Comments may be provided by FEMA on subapplications determined ineligible so that 

subapplicants can modify their subapplication for resubmission in future grant cycles. 

C.1 Request for Information Timelines

Table 6 provides timelines for stepwise information requests and assistance offers. Figure 5

outlines the RFI process and assigned responsible party. The RFI process involves an eligibility 

review to determine whether the subapplication and subapplicant are eligible. Then a 

completeness review is conducted to determine whether a complete subapplication was 
submitted. If the subapplication is determined to be incomplete, FEMA will request further 

information from the subapplicant. At each step of the RFI process, FEMA will work with the 

Applicant and subapplicant to determine available options to develop a viable project. Some 

options include technical assistance from FEMA or implementing a phased project. If the 

requested information is not received by the Regional Administrator before the deadline, the 

project will be denied as FEMA will have no basis to make an eligibility determination. Upon 

receipt of the requested information and confirmation it adequately addresses the RFI, FEMA 

will proceed with making a determination of project eligibility.

Table 6: RFI Timelines

Request 

Format Timeline

Informal – 

First Request

The Project Officer requests additional information from the Applicant. If the requested information is 

not received within 30 calendar days from the date of the request, FEMA will consider the application 

to be incomplete and not approvable. Unless the HMA program is competitive, FEMA may provide 

technical assistance if requested to help the Applicant respond to the RFI and set a new timeframe 

for the Applicant response. The Applicant may consider phasing the project if it is feasible to do so.

Informal – 

Second 

Request

The Hazard Mitigation Branch Chief requests additional information. If the requested information is 

not received within 14 calendar days from the date of the request, FEMA will consider the application 

to be incomplete and not approvable. FEMA may provide technical assistance if requested, unless 

the HMA program is competitive. FEMA, Recipient, and Applicant staff should meet to resolve any 

open items within the allotted timeframe, if necessary.

Formal In a formal letter to the Applicant, the Regional Administrator requests additional information and 

documents previous requests. If the requested information is not received within 30 calendar days 

from the date of the request, FEMA will consider the application to be incomplete and not 

approvable.

Formal If the Regional Administrator does not receive the requested information within 30 calendar days, he 

or she will determine the requested project application to be ineligible for funding. The second 

formal letter is a denial.

The Regional Administrator may choose to allow more time, with justification. FEMA 

encourages subapplicants to coordinate early with the Applicant to identify potential technical 

assistance needs. If technical data is not readily available, the subapplicant should coordinate 

with the Applicant to determine whether the project should be phased to develop required data. 

Applicants may contact the FEMA Regional Office to request technical assistance, relevant 

training, or other needed support. 

Part V. Application Review Information 79
Figure 5: RFI Flowchart

Part V. Application Review Information 80
PART VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION

INFORMATION

Part VI describes how successful Applicants will receive award information (see Figure 6). 

Additionally, this part describes administrative requirements from the time an award is made 

through closeout and the maintenance actions that must occur after an activity is complete. 

A. Notice of Award

FEMA will provide an award package to the Recipient for successful subapplications. 

Subrecipients will receive notice of award from the Recipient. 

Figure 6: Award Process

Part VI. Award Administration Information 81

Award packages for PDM and FMA include an award letter, FF 112-0-7, Obligating Document 

for Awards/Amendments, Articles of Agreement, EHP award conditions, and/or other conditions 

that must be signed by the Applicant in eGrants and returned to FEMA for approval before funds 

can be obligated. 

For HMGP, award packages for subawards include an approval letter, an obligation document, 

and EHP award conditions and/or other conditions. 
When the Applicant or subapplicant accepts an award, they are denoted as the Recipient and 

subrecipient, respectively. The Recipient and subrecipient agree to abide by the Federal award 

terms and conditions as set forth in the Articles of Agreement or the FEMA-State Agreement. 

B. Risk Assessment Prior to PDM and FMA Award

Prior to making an award, FEMA will evaluate a pass-through entity to determine the level of 

risk when there is a history of failure to comply with general or specific terms and conditions of 

a Federal award or failure to meet the expected performance goals. If FEMA determines that a 

Federal award will be made, special conditions that correspond to the degree of risk assessed 

may be applied to the award. Pass-through entities must also conduct risk assessments of their 

subrecipients. 

Additional conditions or requirements may include:

♦ Requiring payments as reimbursement rather than advance payments

♦ Withholding authority to proceed to the next phase until receipt of evidence of acceptable

progress is provided

♦ Requiring additional, more detailed financial reports

♦ Requiring additional project monitoring

♦ Requiring the pass-through entity to obtain technical or management assistance

♦ Establishing additional prior approvals, such as requiring the preparation of a management

plan

For PDM and FMA, pass-through entities can appeal using the reconsideration process, see Part 

V, B.3. FEMA will remove special conditions if the circumstances that prompted them have 

been corrected.

C. Requirements for Pass-Through Entities

All pass-through entities must:

♦ Collect and review financial and programmatic reports

♦ Ensure that every subaward is clearly identified to the subrecipient as a subaward and

includes information required in 2 CFR Section 200.331

♦ Evaluate each subrecipient’s risk of noncompliance with Federal statutes, regulations, and the

terms and conditions of the subaward for purposes of determining the appropriate

subrecipient monitoring described 2 CFR Section 200.331

♦ Consider imposing additional specific subaward conditions on a subrecipient, if appropriate,

and notify subrecipient, as described in 2 CFR Section 200.207

Part VI. Award Administration Information 82
♦ Monitor the activities of the subrecipient as necessary to ensure that the subaward is used for 

authorized purposes; that the activities are in compliance with Federal statutes, regulations, 

and the terms and conditions of the subaward; and that subaward performance goals are 

achieved. Pass-through entity monitoring of the subrecipient must include the requirement 

found in 2 CFR Section 200.331. Monitoring must include:

− Reviewing financial and programmatic reports

− Following-up and ensuring that the subrecipient takes prompt and appropriate action 

for any deficiencies discovered through audits, on-site reviews, and other monitoring 

activity

− Issuing a management decision for audit findings as required by 2 CFR Section 

200.521

♦ Verify that every subrecipient is audited as required by 2 CFR Subpart F when it is expected 

that the subrecipient’s Federal awards expended during the respective fiscal year equaled or 

exceeded the threshold set forth in 2 CFR Section 200.501

♦ Consider whether the results of the subrecipient’s audits, on-site reviews, or other monitoring 

indicate conditions that necessitate adjustments to the pass-through entity’s own records

♦ Consider taking enforcement action against noncompliant subrecipients as described in 

2 CFR Section 200.338

C.1 Termination

The Federal Award may be terminated in whole or in part by FEMA or the pass-through entity if

the non-Federal entity fails to comply with the terms and conditions of the award, for cause, with 

consent of the non-Federal entity when all parties agree with the termination conditions, or by 

the non-Federal entity upon sending to FEMA or the pass-through entity written notification of 

the termination including the reason for the termination. 

C.1.1 Additional Specific Award Conditions or Terminations in the PDM and 

FMA Programs

FEMA will reconsider determinations of noncompliance, additional award conditions, or its 

decision to terminate a Federal award. The pass-through entity must send information for 

reconsideration to FEMA Headquarters within the time specified in the notification from FEMA. 

A FEMA decision will uphold or overturn a decision regarding an award based on information 

provided by the pass-through entity and subrecipient, and application, award, and subaward 

management records collected by FEMA.

Part VI. Award Administration Information 83
D. Administrative and National Policy Requirements

This section discusses cost-share documentation, SOW changes, budget changes, program POP, 

requests for advances and reimbursements, program income, Federal tax income on mitigation 

project funds, noncompliance, and the Davis-Bacon Act.

D.1 Cost-Share Documentation

Requirements for cash and third-party in-kind contributions can be found in 2 CFR Section

200.306. Cash and third-party in-kind contributions are only allowable for eligible program 

costs. The following documentation is required for cash and third-party in-kind contributions: 

♦ Identification of contributions in the cost estimate

♦ Record of donor

♦ Dates of donation

♦ Rates for staffing, equipment usage, supplies, etc.

♦ Amounts of donation or value of donation (also see 2 CFR Section 200.434)

♦ Deposit slips for cash contributions

Such documentation must be kept on file by the non-Federal entity. 

D.2 Scope of Work Changes

Failure on the part of the pass-through entity to obtain 

prior written approval when required may result in the 

disallowance of costs. Even in cases where the passthrough entity has authority for rebudgeting (less than 10 

percent of non-construction activities), if a program audit 

determines that the costs do not meet the required 

allowable and reasonable determination, the costs may be 

disallowed.

In accordance with 2 CFR Section 200.308, pass-through entities must obtain FEMA’s prior 

approval whenever there is a proposed SOW change. Requests for changes to the SOW after 

award are permissible as long as they are consistent with the intent of the program. Requests 

must be made in writing and demonstrate the need for the scope change. The request also should 

include a revised scope, schedule, and budget. Any SOW changes are subject to all 

programmatic requirements, including EHP review requirements. All approvals will be at 

FEMA’s discretion. 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 84

SCOPE CHANGE

Recipients and subrecipients must 

request FEMA’s approval for a 

change in scope after the award has 

been made. The change must be 

consistent with the intent of the 

program. Requests must be made in 

writing and demonstrate the need for 

a change.
D.3 Budget Changes

Pass-through entities are permitted to rebudget within the 

approved direct cost budget to meet unanticipated 

requirements and may make limited program changes to the 

approved budget. For more information on direct cost 

categories, see 2 CFR Section 200.308 and 2 CFR Subpart 

E. The following types of post-award changes to budgets 

will require the prior written approval of FEMA. When 

budget changes are made, all programmatic requirements continue to apply. Additional 

information regarding budget adjustments and revisions can be found in 2 CFR Section 200.308. 

D.3.1 Non-construction Projects 

♦ Non-construction subaward adjustments of more than 10 percent in any direct cost categories

where the awarding Agency’s share exceeds $100,000

♦ Any changes that would result in additional funding to the grant

D.3.2 Construction Projects

♦ All construction cost adjustments that lead to the need for additional funds

♦ Any changes to access contingency funds and rebudget to another direct cost category

D.3.3 Cost Overruns and Underruns

A cost overrun or underrun to a subaward can result from a scope, schedule, or budget change. 

The pass-through entity must notify FEMA as soon as an underrun or overrun is identified. Prior 

to re-directing underrun funds to overrun requests within the same award, the pass-through entity 

must request approval from FEMA for PDM and FMA. The pass-through entity may request 

additional Federal funds for identified overruns, which FEMA may approve if program funds are 

available. The subaward must continue to meet cost share and eligibility requirements. For 

projects, a new BCA may be required. 

D.3.4 Contingencies

A contingency cost is an allowance in the total cost estimate to cover situations that cannot be 

fully defined at the time the cost estimate is prepared but that will likely result in additional 

eligible costs. Allowances for major project scope changes, unforeseen risks, or extraordinary 

events may not be included as contingency costs. 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 85

BUDGET CHANGE

In limited cases, for non-construction 

projects, Recipients and subrecipients 

are permitted to make adjustments 

within the approved direct cost 

category to meet unanticipated 

requirements.
For project applications, cost estimates may include contingencies; however, the recommended 

total contingency range is 1 to 5 percent. Contingency costs may be raised to 7 percent for 

historic properties as defined under the NHPA. A Contingency cost should be included as a line 

item in the budget section of a project application. As with other line items in the budget, the 

subapplicant should justify the contingency estimate based on the nature of the proposed project. 

The total project cost, which may include contingencies, will be the one used to compute the 

BCA. 

Contingency funds are not automatically available for use. Prior to their release, contingency 

funds must be rebudgeted to another direct cost category. Post-award changes to the budget 

require prior written approval from FEMA (see Part VI, D.3). The written request should 

demonstrate what unforeseen condition related to the project arose that required the use of 

contingency funds. 

D.4 Program Period of Performance

The POP is the period of time during which the non-Federal entity may incur new obligations to 

carry out all administrative actions and award activities, and incur costs. The Federal awarding 

agency or pass-through entity must include start and end dates of the POP in the Federal award. 

The Recipient is expected to complete the Federal award activities and to incur and expend 

approved funds within the POP. The POP for HMGP begins with the opening of the application 

period and ends no later than 36 months from the close of the application period. The POP for 

the PDM and FMA programs begins with the opening of the application period and ends no later 

than 36 months from the date of subapplication selection. 

FEMA will not establish activity completion timelines for individual subawards. Pass-through 

entities are responsible for ensuring that all approved activities are completed by the end of the 

POP award. 

The POP does not include the 90-day report submission period and costs incurred during that 

period are not chargeable to the FEMA award. HMA Recipients and subrecipients must 

complete all administrative actions within the POP if they seek Federal funds to cover the costs. 

D.4.1 Extensions

Requests for extensions to an award POP will be evaluated by FEMA but will not be 

automatically approved. The Regional Administrator can extend the POP for up to 12 months 

with justification. All requests to extend the award POP beyond 12 months from the original 

grant POP end date must be approved by FEMA Headquarters. 

All extension requests must be submitted to FEMA at least 60 days prior to the expiration of the 

award POP and justifications must be submitted in writing. The justification must include:

♦ Verification that progress has been made as described in quarterly reports

Part VI. Award Administration Information 86
♦ Reason(s) for delay

♦ Current status of the activity/activities

♦ Current POP termination date and new projected completion date 

♦ Remaining available funds, both Federal and non-Federal

♦ Budget outlining how remaining Federal and non-Federal funds will be expended

♦ Plan for completion, including updated schedule 

D.5 Requests for Advances and Reimbursements

The Recipient’s responsibility for an HMA grant is to process requests for advances and 

reimbursements of funds. The pass-through entity should establish accounting procedures to 

disburse money to subrecipients in a timely manner and should provide to subrecipients a POC 

for information on requesting and receiving the funds, records that must be maintained, forms to 

be used, and timelines for requesting the funds. 

For PDM and FMA, the Payment and Reporting System (PARS) is used to transfer funds 

between FEMA and Recipients. Recipients shall submit a copy of Standard Form (SF) 425, 

Federal Financial Report (FFR), to FEMA via the eGrants system. 

For HMGP, the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Payment Management, 

Payment Management System, SMARTLINK, is used to transfer funds between FEMA and 

Recipients. Recipients shall submit a copy of the SF-425 to FEMA. 

D.6 Program Income

FEMA encourages non-Federal entities to generate program income to help defray program 

costs. Program income is gross income received by the non-Federal entity directly generated by 

an award-supported activity or earned only as a result of the award during the award POP. 

Program income may be derived from use or rental of real or personal property acquired with 

award funds, and sale of commodities or items fabricated under the award. Subrecipients must 

deduct this income from total project costs as specified in 2 CFR Sections 200.80 and 200.307. 

D.7 Federal Income Tax on Mitigation Project Funds

FEMA mitigation payments that benefit property owners through the mitigation of their 

structures are not subject to Federal income taxation. FEMA mitigation payments to acquire a 

property will be treated as an involuntary conversion for tax purposes. These tax relief measures 

are effective for such payments made in all prior years. For more information, property owners 

should consult the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) office or a tax advisor. 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 87
D.8 Remedies for Noncompliance

If a pass-through entity fails to comply with Federal statutes, regulations, or terms or conditions 

of a Federal award, whether stated in an assurance, a State Administrative Plan or application, a 

notice of award, this guidance, or elsewhere, FEMA may take one or more of the following 

actions, as appropriate: 

♦ Temporarily withhold cash payments pending correction of the deficiency 

♦ Disallow (that is, deny both use of funds and matching credit for) all or part of the cost of the 

activity or action not in compliance 

♦ Wholly or partly suspend or terminate the Federal award

♦ Initiate suspension or debarment proceedings 

♦ Withhold further awards for HMA grant program(s)

♦ Take other remedies that may be legally available

Additional details can be found in 2 CFR Section 200.338. 

D.9 Davis-Bacon Act

The Davis-Bacon and Related Acts apply to contractors and subcontractors performing on 

federally funded or assisted, or District of Columbia, contracts in excess of $2,000 for the 

construction, alteration, or repair (including painting and decorating) of public buildings or 

public works. Contractors and subcontractors must pay their laborers and mechanics employed 

under the contract no less than the locally prevailing wages and fringe benefits for corresponding 

work on similar projects in the area. The Act directs the U.S. Department of Labor to determine 

such locally prevailing wage rates. The prevailing wage provisions apply to the “Related Acts,” 

under which Federal agencies assist construction projects through grants, loans, loan guarantees, 

and insurance. 

The Davis-Bacon Act applies only to work for which FEMA contracts directly with a contractor 

and does not apply to Recipient/pass-through entity–contracted work.

E. Reporting Requirements

Recipients and subrecipients must maintain records of work and expenditures. Recipients submit 

quarterly financial and performance reports to FEMA on January 30, April 30, July 30, and 

October 30. The first quarterly reports are due within 30 days of the end of the first Federal 

quarter following the initial award. FEMA may waive the initial reports. The Recipient shall 

submit quarterly financial status and performance reports thereafter until the grant ends. Failure 

to submit financial and performance reports to FEMA in a timely manner may result in an 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 88
inability to access grant funds until proper reports are received by FEMA. Recipients are 

encouraged to contact FEMA should this occur. 

Recipients must use the FFR (SF-425) and the Standard Form Performance Progress Report (SFPPR). PDM and FMA quarterly financial reports must be submitted via PARS. The SF-PPR 

must be submitted for PDM and FMA grants via the eGrants system. The SF-PPR must be 

submitted for HMGP via NEMIS by directly entering data into the Quarterly Report module or 

by sending a pre-approved Excel spreadsheet. Recipients without access to NEMIS should 

coordinate with their Region for further guidance. Hard copies are no longer accepted. 

E.1 Federal Financial Reports

Recipients shall submit a quarterly FFR. Obligations and expenditures must be reported on a 

quarterly basis using the FFR (SF-425), which is due to FEMA within 30 days of the end of each 

calendar quarter (e.g., for the quarter ending March 31, the FFR is due no later than April 30). A 

report must be submitted for every quarter of the POP, including partial calendar quarters, as well 

as for periods where no activity occurs. Future awards and fund drawdowns may be withheld if 

these reports are delinquent. The final FFR is due 90 days after the end date of the POP. 

OMB has directed that the FFR (SF-425) replace the SF-269, SF-269A, SF-272, and SF-272A. 

The SF-425 consolidates the Federal Status Report and the Federal Cash Transaction Report into 

a single report. The SF-425 is intended to provide Federal agencies and Recipients with a 

standard format and consistent reporting requirements. 

Reporting periods and due dates: 

♦ October 1 – December 31; Due January 30

♦ January 1 – March 31; Due April 30

♦ April 1 – June 30; Due July 30

♦ July 1 – September 30; Due October 30

For the HMGP program, quarterly financial reports must be submitted via SMARTLINK. For 

the PDM and FMA program, quarterly financial reports must be submitted via PARS. 

E.2 Performance Reports

The Recipient shall submit a quarterly performance report for each award. 

Performance reports should include: 

♦ Reporting period, date of report, and Recipient POC name and contact information

♦ SF-PPR must be used for PDM and FMA and must be submitted via eGrants

Part VI. Award Administration Information 89
♦ Project identification information, including FEMA project number (including disaster 

number and declaration date for HMGP), subrecipient, and project type using standard 

eGrants/NEMIS project type codes

♦ Significant activities and developments that have occurred or have shown progress during the 

quarter, including a comparison of actual accomplishments to the work schedule objectives 

established in the subaward 

♦ Percent completion and whether completion of work is on schedule; a discussion of any 

problems, delays, or adverse conditions that will impair the ability to meet the timelines 

stated in the subaward; and anticipated completion date 

♦ Status of costs, including whether the costs are (1) unchanged, (2) overrun, or (3) underrun. 

If there is a change in cost status, the report should include a narrative describing the change. 

Also, include amount dispersed to subrecipient by activity. 

♦ A statement of whether a request to extend the award POP is anticipated

♦ Incremental funding amounts (SFM) and progress completed 

♦ For acquisition projects, the current status of each property for which settlement was 

completed in that quarter 

♦ Additional information as required by FEMA to assess the progress of an award 

FEMA may suspend drawdowns from SMARTLINK or PARS if quarterly performance reports 

are not submitted on time.

E.3 Final Reports

The pass-through entity must submit final reports when it determines that all administrative 

actions and required work have been completed. This final report may be submitted prior to the 

end of the POP. The pass-through entity must submit a final SF-425 and Performance Report no 

later than 90 days after the end date of the POP, per 2 CFR Section 200.343. 

F. Closeout

This section discusses subaward and award closeout.

F.1 Subaward Closeout

As required by 44 CFR 206.438(d), the Recipient will submit a letter signed by the Governor’s 

Representative or equivalent certifying that:

♦ The reported costs were incurred in the performance of eligible work

♦ The approved work was completed and the mitigation measure is in compliance with the 

provisions of the FEMA-State Agreement

Part VI. Award Administration Information 90
Additionally, the subaward closeout request must include the following: 

♦ Verification that any program income has been deducted from total project costs as specified 

in 2 CFR Section 200.307 

♦ Final site inspection report that includes photographs of the completed project

♦ Final project costs, including Federal share, non-Federal share, administrative allowance (if 

applicable), and cost underrun and overruns 

♦ Geospatial coordinates, in the form of latitude and longitude with an accuracy of +/- 20 

meters (64 feet), have been provided for the project. For flood reduction, hazardous fuels 

reduction, and soil stabilization projects, an accurate recording of the official acreage, using 

open file formats geospatial files (i.e., shapefiles), must be submitted. 

♦ Certification and documentation to support that the project was completed in compliance 

with environmental conditions, required permits, and applicable building codes 

♦ Certification that the project meets NFIP insurance requirements (if applicable)

♦ For new or updated hazard mitigation plans, a final copy of the FEMA-approved and 

community-adopted plan has been submitted 

♦ For planning-related activities, the activity is consistent with 44 CFR Part 201 or 206 

(HMGP) 

♦ Other supporting documents required by FEMA to close mitigation project types as outlined 

in the HMA Job Aids: (1) Closeout Toolkit: Checklist for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 

and (2) Closeout Toolkit: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Subaward Closeout FAQs

FEMA will review all closeout documentation for compliance and may send the Recipient a 

request for additional supporting documentation, if needed. 

For project-specific requirements, see the Appendices and the Addendum to this HMA Guidance. 

Recipients should closeout subawards as activities are completed. In addition, as cost underruns 

are identified, the Recipient should submit de-obligation requests to FEMA. 

F.1.1 Subrecipient Records Retention

Financial records, supporting documents, statistical records, and all other subrecipient records 

pertinent to a Federal award must be retained for a period of 3 years from the date of submission 

of the final expenditure report in accordance with 2 CFR Sections 200.333 through 200.337. 

There are some exceptions where the retention period may be longer than 3 years as noted in 

2 CFR Sections 200.333 through 200.337 and as required by the Recipient. The following 

examples are the most common instances:

♦ When the non-Federal entity is notified in writing by FEMA, the cognizant agency for audit, 

oversight agency for audit, cognizant agency for indirect costs, or pass-through entity to 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 91
extend the retention period, non-Federal entities must keep records for as long as indicated in 

the notification, which may be longer than 3 years. 

♦ Records for real property and equipment acquired with Federal funds must generally be 

retained for 3 years after disposition. Records for project types where property may be 

acquired include safe rooms, flood risk reduction measures, and property acquisition and 

structural demolition/structure relocation. 

For additional information about closeout for property acquisition and structure demolition or 

relocation projects, see Addendum, Part A.5. For additional information about closeout for 

mitigation reconstruction projects, see Addendum, Part D.5. 

F.2 Award Closeout

The Recipient has up to 90 days following the expiration of the award POP to submit all 

financial, performance, and other reports required by FEMA. All administrative actions must 

also be completed during the award POP, except the actual submission of the required reports. 

The Recipient must liquidate all obligations incurred under the award no later than 90 days after 

the POP expiration. The closeout process for the Recipient involves the following steps: 

♦ The Recipient ensures all subawards have been closed out as identified in Part VI, F.1. 

♦ The Recipient reconciles/adjusts subaward costs, ensures that non-Federal share costs are 

documented, and ensures that all costs submitted are eligible according to the FEMAapproved SOW. 

♦ The Recipient receives and processes cost adjustments or returns unobligated funds to FEMA 

via SMARTLINK or PARS. Final payment is made to the Recipient. 

♦ The Recipient notifies FEMA that the award is ready for final closeout. 

♦ The Recipient submits a closeout letter, signed by the GAR, to FEMA with supporting 

documentation, including: 

− Statement that the SOW(s) has been completed as approved 

− SF-425 (for PARS, the final SF-425 is also submitted via PARS) 

− SF-270, Request for Advance or Reimbursement, if applicable, or request for deobligation of unused funds, if applicable 

− SF-428, Report on Government Property, if applicable 

− Statement that no inventions were made or patents applied for in the implementation 

of the award

Part VI. Award Administration Information 92
F.2.1 Recipient Records Retention 

The Recipient must maintain the complete Federal award closeout records file for at least 3 years 

from the submission date of its final expenditure report in accordance with 2 CFR Sections

200.333 through 200.337. FEMA recommends that Recipients remind subrecipients of the 3-

year records retention requirement and communicate the submission date of the final expenditure 

reports to FEMA. 

FEMA retains the right to disallow costs and recover funds on the basis of a later audit or other 

review after closeout. FEMA must make any cost disallowance determination and notify the 

pass-through entity within the record retention period. 

F.2.2 Update of Repetitive Loss Database

Recipients with projects that mitigate a repetitive loss property, as identified by the NFIP, must 

update the NFIP Repetitive Loss Database as project activities are completed: 

♦ For acquisition and demolition or relocation projects, Recipients must provide this update 

when there is no longer an insurable structure on the property. 

♦ For elevation, reconstruction, floodproofing, and localized flood control projects, Recipients 

must provide this update when the approved activity is complete or otherwise effective. 

The NFIP defines a repetitive loss property as any insurable building for which two or more 

claims of more than $1,000 were paid by the NFIP within any rolling 10-year period since 1978. 

At least two of the claims must be more than 10 days apart but within 10 years of each other. A 

repetitive loss property may or may not be currently insured by the NFIP. 

Note the NFIP definition of repetitive loss property described in this section is different from the 

FMA definition after the passage of Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, 

Section 1370. Biggert-Waters created a new definition for a repetitive loss property for FMA. 

For further information on repetitive loss property, see Part VIII, C.1. 

To gain access to sensitive NFIP data, government officials are required to obtain a User Name 

and Password for access to Data Exchange, the Repetitive Loss Database that is managed by the 

NFIP Legacy Systems Contractor. Currently, only two access accounts are permitted per State 

and are reserved for the SHMO and the State NFIP Coordinator or their designee. To obtain a 

User Name and Password for access to Data Exchange, send an email with your name, title, 

contact information, and the reason that access to Data Exchange is needed to FEMA. Once 

FEMA authorizes you for NFIP Legacy Systems access to Data Exchange, you will be notified 

via email.

To maintain accurate, up-to-date records for all repetitive loss properties mitigated as a result of 

HMA grant funds, FEMA requires that the Recipient submit FEMA Form AW-501, NFIP 

Repetitive Loss Update Worksheet (OMB 1660-0022). Form AW-501 must be submitted along 

with documentation supporting the change in the mitigated status of a structure (e.g., Elevation 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 93
Certificate). This form must be submitted for each property mitigated with HMA award funds 

prior to closeout. The AW-501 form and instructions for completing and submitting it can be 

found on the FEMA website: http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3244. Detailed 

AW-501 forms for individual repetitive loss properties can be obtained by accessing Data 

Exchange and selecting the link to AW-501 data after selecting to look up property by property 

locator or repetitive loss number. 

States accessing NFIP data via the electronic systems (Data Exchange) are advised of, and must 

acknowledge, the sensitive nature of the information and the need to prevent the release of the 

data to unauthorized users. When the data are released to a local government by either the State

or the appropriate FEMA Regional Office, the local government must be notified in writing that 

the records relating to individuals and properties are being made available through the FEMA 

routine use policy for the specific purposes of mitigation planning, research, analysis, and 

feasibility studies consistent with the NFIP and for uses that further the floodplain management 

and hazard mitigation goals of the State and FEMA. 

Part VI. Award Administration Information 94
PART VII. FEMA CONTACTS

Part VII identifies resources that may help Applicants and subapplicants request HMA funds. 

If requested, FEMA will provide technical assistance to both Applicants and subapplicants 

regarding:

♦ General questions about the HMA programs

♦ Specific questions about subapplications after the application period opens

♦ Feasibility and effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and EHP compliance during the application

period

♦ The eGrants application processes

For additional technical assistance resources, including HMA application and award resources, 

see Part IX.C.7. 

FEMA encourages Applicants and subapplicants to seek technical assistance early in the 

application period by contacting their appropriate FEMA Regional Office. Table 7 shows which 

States are served by each FEMA Region. 

Contact information for FEMA Regional Offices is provided at http://www.fema.gov/regionaloperations. 

Contact information for each SHMO is provided at http://www.fema.gov/state-hazardmitigation-officers. 

Table 7: FEMA Regions

FEMA 

Region Serving

I Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont

II New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands 

III Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia 

IV Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee 

V Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin 

VI Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas 

VII Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska

VIII Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, Wyoming 

IX Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands 

X Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington

Part VII. FEMA Contacts 95
PART VIII.ADDITIONAL PROGRAM 

GUIDANCE

Part VIII provides additional information applicable to assistance available under each particular 

HMA grant program. This section supplements the information provided in Parts I through VII, 

and the unique project type guidance included in the Addendum. Part VIII does not provide all 

of the information necessary to apply for funding through an HMA program and must be read in 

conjunction with other relevant sections of this guidance. 

A. Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 

Most of the information that an Applicant or subapplicant needs to apply for an HMGP award or 

that a Recipient or subrecipient needs to manage an HMGP award is provided in Parts I through 

VII. This section contains supplemental guidance specific to HMGP.

A.1 Recipient Request for HMGP 

Funds

HMGP is authorized through a Presidential major 

disaster declaration for activities that provide a 

beneficial impact to the disaster area. A Governor, or 

equivalent may request that HMGP funding be 

available throughout the State, territory, or tribal area

or only in specific jurisdictions. For information 

regarding the declaration process and authorization of 

HMGP, see 44 CFR Part 206 Subpart B and seek 

assistance from the appropriate FEMA Regional 

Office. 

The GAR or equivalent serves as the grant administrator for all funds provided under HMGP

(44 CFR Section 206.438(d)). The GAR responsibilities include providing technical advice and 

assistance to eligible subapplicants and/or subrecipients and ensuring that all potential 

subapplicants are aware of available assistance for the submission of all documents necessary for 

award.

A.2 State Administrative Plan

The State Administrative Plan is a procedural guide that details how the Recipient will 

administer HMGP. Recipients must have a current Administrative Plan approved by FEMA 

before receiving HMGP funds. The State Administrative Plan may become an annex or chapter 

of the State’s overall emergency response and operations plan or comprehensive mitigation 

program strategy. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 96

TRIBAL HMGP PRESIDENTIAL 

MAJOR DISASTER DECLARATION

REQUEST 

Per the SRIA, federally-recognized tribes

can submit their own request for a 

Presidential major disaster declaration 

within their impacted areas. Because 

federally-recognized tribes do not follow 

designated State or regional boundaries, 

all geographic areas covered by a tribal 

plan will still be eligible for HMGP

funding after a disaster, even if the area 

crosses State lines.
At a minimum, the State Administrative Plan must:

♦ Designate the State agency that will act as Recipient

♦ Identify the SHMO, or equivalent

♦ Identify staffing requirements and resources, including a procedure for expanding staff

temporarily following a disaster, if necessary

♦ Establish procedures to guide implementation activities, including Recipient management

costs and distribution of subrecipient management costs

♦ Comply with 44 CFR Section 206.437

A.2.1 Designation of Recipient and State Hazard Mitigation Officer

Typically, the agency designated to act as Recipient manages the State responsibilities for 

Federal and State disaster assistance and is responsible for meeting the mitigation planning 

requirement. Although a single agency may administer the funding, the Governor may establish 

an interagency mitigation team to manage the State mitigation program. 

The SHMO is typically responsible for managing the State’s mitigation program, coordinating 

the mitigation team, and developing as well as implementing the hazard mitigation plan. States 

often rely on staff from the emergency management agency or other State agencies to augment 

the staff of the SHMO following a disaster.

A.2.2 Staffing Requirements and the Mitigation Team

The State Administrative Plan should identify the positions and minimum number of personnel 

needed to implement HMGP. Key positions may include clerical, administrative, and financial 

management staff; program specialists to support mitigation planning and the implementation of 

mitigation activities and to conduct BCAs; and environmental planners. However, the 

organizational structure of the staff should remain flexible as it may be augmented as needed 

with emergency management agency staff, staff from other State agencies, or temporary staff or 

contractors hired to administer HMGP effectively. The State Administrative Plan should include 

a procedure for expanding staff resources and using HMGP management costs.

The mitigation team may include representatives of agencies involved with emergency 

management, natural resources, floodplain management, environmental issues, historic 

preservation and archeology, soil conservation, transportation, planning and zoning, housing and 

economic development, building regulations, infrastructure regulations or construction, public 

information, insurance, regional and local government, academia, business, and nonprofit 

organizations. With the varied backgrounds and specialized expertise of members, the team 

creates interagency, interdisciplinary insight regarding risks and potential solutions. The 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 97
interagency aspect of the team can diffuse political pressure on the Recipient agency and 

increase the availability of resources. The mitigation team may support the Recipient agency by:

♦ Developing a comprehensive mitigation strategy

♦ Supporting development and implementation of the State Mitigation Plan

♦ Communicating with local governments regarding State mitigation priorities

♦ Building public and business/industry support for mitigation initiatives

♦ Reviewing, assigning priority, and recommending mitigation actions for implementation

♦ Seeking funding for implementation of mitigation measures

A.2.3 Procedures to Guide Implementation Activities 

The State Administrative Plan must establish procedures to:

♦ Identify and notify potential subapplicants of the availability of HMGP funding

♦ Provide potential subapplicants with information on the application process, program

eligibility, and deadlines

♦ Determine subapplicant eligibility

♦ Provide information for EHP and floodplain management reviews in conformance with

44 CFR Parts 9 and 10 (or FD 108-1)

♦ Process requests for advances of funds and reimbursements

♦ Monitor and evaluate the progress and completion of funded mitigation activities

♦ Review and approve cost overruns

♦ Process appeals

♦ Provide technical assistance as required to subrecipients

♦ Comply with the administrative requirements of 44 CFR Part 206 and 2 CFR Part 200

♦ Comply with audit requirements of 2 CFR Part 200 Subpart F

♦ Provide quarterly progress reports to FEMA on funded mitigation activities

A.2.4 Sliding Scale

The maximum amount of HMGP funding available is calculated using a “sliding scale” formula 

based on a percentage of the estimated total Federal assistance under the Stafford Act, excluding 

administrative costs for each Presidential major disaster declaration. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 98
Applicants with a FEMA-approved State or Tribal Standard Mitigation Plan may receive:

♦ Up to 15 percent of the first $2 billion of the estimated aggregate amount of disaster

assistance

♦ Up to 10 percent for the next portion of the estimated aggregate amount more than $2 billion

and up to $10 billion

♦ Up to 7.5 percent for the next portion of the estimated aggregate amount more than $10

billion and up to $35.333 billion

Applicants with a FEMA-approved State or Tribal Enhanced Mitigation Plan are eligible for 

HMGP funding not to exceed 20 percent of the estimated total Federal assistance under the 

Stafford Act, up to $35.333 billion of such assistance, excluding administrative costs authorized 

for the disaster. 

A.2.5 Management Costs

The Recipient must amend its State Administrative Plan to include procedures for determining 

the reasonable amount or percentage of management costs that it will pass through to the 

subrecipient, as well as closeout and audit procedures before FEMA will obligate any 

management costs (see 44 CFR Sections 207.4(c) and 207.7(b)). The Recipient will determine 

the amount, if any, of management costs it will pass through to the subrecipient. FEMA has not 

established any minimum for what constitutes a reasonable amount. 

A.2.6 Submission and Approval Deadlines 

A State may forward a new or updated State Administrative Plan to FEMA for approval at any 

time. A State should review and update its plan annually and must review and update the plan

following a Presidential major disaster declaration if required to meet current policy guidance or 

changes to the administration of the program. If a review indicates that there will be no changes 

to the current State Administrative Plan, the Recipient should notify FEMA of this within 90 

days of the Presidential major disaster declaration.

A.3 Program Administration by States

The SRIA amends the Stafford Act, which authorizes HMGP, and provides FEMA with the 

authority to implement the provisions of Program Administration by States (PAS) as a pilot 

program. It can also apply to a Presidential major disaster declaration before that date if the 

HMGP application period is still open. States or federally-recognized tribes wishing to 

participate in the PAS pilot may be delegated certain, traditional FEMA responsibilities. 

Recipients that wish to participate in the PAS pilot may be delegated additional defined 

responsibilities by FEMA based on an analysis of their staffing plan, grants management and 

hazard mitigation experience, and demonstrated past performance. In return for assuming 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 99
additional responsibilities, Recipients will have increased control and oversight to implement 

their HMGP. 

Many of the potential tasks that could be delegated to a State under PAS are already being 

completed by the Recipients. For example, the Recipient is responsible for preparing a BCA for 

project subapplications. Under the pilot program, FEMA’s role would change. The current 

practice is that FEMA reviews and approves all applications. Under the pilot, the Recipient may 

opt to conduct the agreed upon reviews without seeking approval from FEMA. Additionally, 

under this pilot program, Recipients will have increased control of approval of SOW changes, 

cost overruns and underruns, reimbursement claims to subrecipient communities, and local 

mitigation plans. FEMA will have a reduced role but will maintain oversight responsibilities. 

The PAS pilot is intended to facilitate and accelerate the review and approval process. 

For the PAS pilot, EHP review of HMGP applications and amendments, including amendments 

made post-award will not be delegated to the Recipients. FEMA is authorized to delegate EHP 

reviews to States for compliance with HMGP eligibility and EHP requirements. FEMA retains 

the final review and approval authority on the environmental impact of any proposed Federal 

action or undertaking. However, Recipients may assist FEMA with preparation of the EHP 

review. For additional information, see the Addendum to the Hazard Mitigation Assistance 

Unified Guidance: Program Administration by States Pilot, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program at 

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/32765. Additionally, an FAQs document 

on PAS is available on the HMA website. 

A.4 HMGP Funding

FEMA will determine the funding it will make 

available for HMGP by a lock-in, which will 

act as a ceiling for funds available to a 

Recipient, including its subrecipients. The 

level of HMGP funding available for a given 

disaster is based on a percentage of the 

estimated total Federal assistance under the 

Stafford Act, excluding administrative costs 

for each Presidential major disaster 

declaration, as described in 44 CFR Section 

206.432(b). 

An initial estimate will be provided within 35 

days of the Presidential major disaster 

declaration or soon thereafter, in conjunction 

with calculation of the preliminary lock-in 

amount(s) for management costs. 

THE HMGP FINAL LOCK-IN

Total State Management Cost

(4.89% of Total Available HMGP): 

Prior to 12 Months: 

FEMA obligates up to 75 percent of total HMGP

funding separate from State Management Cost

At 12 Months:

FEMA establishes the full HMGP ceiling 

amount

After 12 Months:

For a catastrophic disaster, the final 

lock-in amount is adjusted upon 

request of a Recipient

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 100
The 6-month estimate is no longer the floor or a guaranteed minimum funding for HMGP. The 

12-month lock-in is the maximum amount available. Prior to 12 months, total obligations are 

limited to not more than 75 percent of any current estimate, without the concurrence of the 

Regional Administrator or Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) with Disaster Recovery Manager 

authority and the Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO). 

FEMA will establish the HMGP funding ceiling for each disaster at 12 months after the 

Presidential major disaster declaration. This amount, also known as the “lock-in” value for 

HMGP, is the maximum that FEMA can obligate for eligible HMGP activities. The OCFO will 

continue to provide HMGP estimates prior to 12 months; however, these estimates will not 

represent a minimum or floor amount. 

In rare circumstances, when a catastrophic disaster has resulted in major fluctuations of projected 

disaster costs, FEMA, at the request of the Recipient, may conduct an additional review after the 

12 month lock-in. If the resulting review shows that the amount of funds available for HMGP is 

different than previously calculated, the final lock-in amount will be adjusted accordingly. 

The Recipient must justify in writing to the Regional Administrator any requests to change the 

amount of the lock-in or perform subsequent reviews. The Regional Administrator will 

recommend to the Chief Financial Officer whether to approve the change. Changes to the lockin will not be made without the approval of the Chief Financial Officer. The Chief Financial 

Officer may change the amount of the lock-in if it is determined that the projections used to 

determine the lock-in were inaccurate to such a degree that the change to the lock-in would be 

material, or for other reasons in his or her discretion that may reasonably warrant such changes. 

The Chief Financial Officer will not make such changes without consultation with the Recipient

and the Regional Administrator. The HMGP ceiling review process is summarized below (see 

Figure 7).

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 101
Figure 7: HMGP Ceiling Review Process

A.5 HMGP Management Costs

The amounts, allowable uses, and procedures for HMGP management costs are established in 

44 CFR Part 207. Examples of allowable management costs are listed in Part III, E.1.5. HMGP

management costs will be provided at a rate of 4.89 percent of the HMGP ceiling. The 

Recipient, in its State Administrative Plan, will determine the amount, if any, of management 

costs it will pass through to the subrecipient (see Part VIII, A.2.5). Management costs are 

provided outside of and separate from the HMGP ceiling amount. There is no additional costshare requirement for HMGP management costs. 

FEMA will establish the amount of funds that it will make available for management costs by 

calculating a lock-in, which will act as a ceiling for management cost funds available to a 

Recipient, including its subrecipients. FEMA will determine, and provide to the Recipient, a 

preliminary management cost lock-in estimate at 30 days after the date of declaration (or soon 

thereafter). For planning purposes, FEMA will revise the lock-in amount at 6 months. FEMA 

will determine the final lock-in amount 12 months after the declaration, or after determination of 

the final lock-in ceiling, whichever is later.

Upon receipt of the initial 30-day lock-in, Recipients may request that FEMA obligate 25 percent 

of the estimated lock-in amount(s) to the Recipient. No later than 120 days after the date of 

declaration, the Recipient must submit documentation to support costs and activities for which 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 102
the projected lock-in for management cost funding will be used. In extraordinary circumstances, 

FEMA may approve a request by a Recipient to submit supporting documentation after 120 days. 

FEMA will work with the Recipient to approve or reject the documentation submitted within 30 

days of receipt. If the documentation is rejected, the Recipient will have 30 days to resubmit it 

for reconsideration and approval. FEMA will not obligate any additional management costs 

unless the Recipient’s documentation is approved. 

The documentation for management costs must include: 

♦ A description of activities, personnel requirements, and other costs for which the Recipient

will use the management cost funding provided under this part

♦ The Recipient’s plan for expending and monitoring the funds provided under this part and

ensuring sufficient funds are budgeted for award closeout

♦ An estimate of the percentage or amount of pass-through funds for management costs

provided under this part that the Recipient will make available to subrecipients, and the basis,

criteria, or formula for determining the subrecipient percentage or amount (e.g., number of

projects, complexity of projects)

Upon receipt of the 6-month management costs lock-in, and if the Recipient can justify a bona 

fide need for additional management costs, the Recipient may submit a request to the Regional 

Administrator for an interim obligation. Any interim obligation must be approved by the Chief 

Financial Officer and will not exceed an amount equal to 10 percent of the 6-month lock-in 

amount, except in extraordinary circumstances. 

The Recipient must justify in writing to the Regional Administrator any requests to change the 

amount of the lock-in or the cap, extend the time period before lock-in, or request an interim 

obligation of funding at the time of the 6-month lock-in adjustment. The Regional Administrator 

will recommend to the Chief Financial Officer whether to change the amount of the lock-in or 

the cap, approve the extension, or approve an interim obligation. Changes to the lock-in, 

extensions, or interim obligations will not be made without the approval of the Chief Financial 

Officer. 

The available period to expend management costs is 8 years from the declaration date. The 

Recipient may expend management cost funds for allowable costs for a maximum of 8 years 

from the date of a Presidential major disaster declaration or 180 days after the latest performance 

period of a non-management cost HMGP project expires, whichever is sooner. The period of 

availability may be extended only at the written justified request of the Recipient, with the 

recommendation of the Regional Administrator and with the approval of the Chief Financial 

Officer. 

For additional information on HMGP management costs, see 44 CFR Part 207. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 103
A.6 Eligible Subapplicants

In addition to the eligible subapplicants described in Part III, A, PNP organizations may act as 

the subapplicant for HMGP. PNP organizations or institutions that provide an essential 

government service are defined in 44 CFR Section 206.221(e). Each subapplication from a PNP 

must include either:

♦ An effective ruling letter from the IRS granting tax exemption under Section 501(c), (d), or

(e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as amended

♦ State certification, under State law, of nonprofit status

A qualified conservation organization, as defined at 44 CFR Section 80.3(h), is the only PNP 

organization eligible to apply for property acquisition and demolition or relocation projects. 

A.7 Submission of HMGP Subapplications

The Recipient must submit all HMGP subapplications to FEMA within 12 months of the date of 

the Presidential major disaster declaration. Upon written request and justification from the 

Recipient, FEMA may extend the application submission timeline in 30- to 90-day increments 

not to exceed a total extension of 180 days, in the event of extraordinary conditions. For 

additional information, see 44 CFR Section 206.436. Additional time may be available based on 

meeting the criteria of the Stafford Act, Section 301. To qualify, the requestor must justify how 

the event for which the additional time is needed created the situation in which the Recipient

cannot meet the regulatory administrative deadline.

Extensions beyond regulatory time limits will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Stafford 

Act Section 301 (Waiver of Administrative Conditions) provides relief for the rare circumstance 

when the magnitude of the event for which the extension is requested prevents the Recipient

from meeting program administrative requirements. The Recipient must submit the request to 

the FIMAAssociate Administrator through the Regional Administrator or, if there is a Joint Field 

Office, through the FCO. The Regional Administrator or FCO will provide his or her comments 

or concurrence and forward the request. The maximum time available is 90 days. The request 

must describe the conditions that preclude the Recipient from meeting the administrative 

requirements and must include a summary of current status, planned actions to meet the 

extension, and any resources that may be required. FEMA will consider the request and will 

provide a decision within 30 days. 

A.8 Award Cost-Share Requirements

HMGP awards are required to have at least a 25 percent non-Federal cost share.

The Recipient may choose to meet the cost-share requirement by ensuring a minimum 25 percent 

non-Federal share for the overall HMGP award, rather than on an individual activity basis. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 104
Recipients choosing this option should develop a cost-share strategy as part of their 

Administrative Plan for review and approval by FEMA. 

If an Applicant chooses to fund individual projects 

with non-Federal cost shares below 25 percent, 

the Applicant must notify FEMA. If an Applicant 

intends to implement this approach, the State 

Administrative Plan must explain how the 

Applicant will:

♦ Apply this approach in a fair and impartial

manner to all subapplications

♦ Monitor the cost share for the overall award

throughout the POP

♦ Address any cost-share shortfalls that may

occur during the POP and at closeout

If, at closeout, the non-Federal cost share of the 

award is less than 25 percent of the total amount, 

FEMA will recoup the amount of Federal funds 

needed to bring the cost share into compliance. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 105

STRATEGIC FUNDS MANAGEMENT, 

PHASED PROJECTS, PRE-AWARD COSTS,

AND ADVANCE ASSISTANCE 

SFM is designed to provide incremental 

funding for eligible activities when the funds 

are required.

Phased projects are those that receive 

funding for only certain complex activities that 

are approved to allow the Applicant to develop 

a full work scope/data package to support the 

full project description.

Pre-award costs are eligible costs incurred by 

the Applicant in advance of receiving funds. 

These activities are reimbursed when the 

project is approved and funded.

Advance Assistance provides 

Applicants/subapplicants with resources to 

develop mitigation strategies and obtain data 

to prioritize, select, and develop complete 

HMGP applications in a timely manner.

A.9 Strategic Funds Management

SFM is a tool that FEMA uses to manage the Disaster Relief Fund more efficiently. SFM 

promotes fiscal responsibility and better project management by incrementally funding activities 

as each project milestone is reached. SFM allows FEMA to reduce the amount of unexpended 

obligations over time by obligating project funds when subrecipients will use them. This 

business practice supports FEMA’s goal of maintaining Disaster Relief Fund solvency. 

All pending and future HMGP projects over $1 million Federal share must be reviewed to 

determine whether the project is a candidate for SFM. If an HMGP project is appropriate for 

SFM, FEMA and the non-Federal entities will review the budget and work schedule to ensure 

that the project supports incremental obligation. Obligations are executed in increments, based 

on the project meeting an established project milestone schedule, until the project is completed. 

FEMA recognizes that certain projects may not be suitable for incremental funding. 

The following projects are not required to use SFM: 

♦ Projects with a Federal share of less than $1 million

♦ Projects that require an approved source of funding (full obligation) by the State procurement

process in order for the Applicant to enter procurement and contracting
♦ Projects for which most of the funds will be disbursed within 6 months

Although those projects are not required for SFM, they should be evaluated because there may 

be some value in incremental funding. If SFM is not used on a large project, the Recipient must 

provide proper justification to FEMA. 

For additional information, refer to the SFM toolkit at http://www.fema.gov/medialibrary/assets/documents/98885. 

A.10 HMGP Disaster Spend Plan

The HMGP Disaster Spend Plan is a forecasting tool 

that FEMA uses to evaluate the funding needs of 

HMGP during a disaster. FEMA is able to manage 

the timing of HMGP project awards and ensure that 

funding is available for obligation of approved 

projects. 

It is critical that the Recipient is an active participant 

in the Spend Plan. The Recipient identifies funding 

priorities for projects, forecasts funding needs for 

future months, and revises projections each month in 

coordination with FEMA. This process induces a 

more collaborative working relationship between 

FEMA and the Recipient. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 106

HMGP FISCAL PROCESSES 

Lock-In is the amount of funding 

eligible to be used for HMGP on a given 

disaster and determined at 12 months 

after the declaration date.

Management Costs are eligible funds 

to be used by the Recipient to manage 

the disaster Awards and are finalized at 

the same time as the lock-in. 

Disaster Spend Plan is modified 

monthly and reports funding needed 

throughout the life cycle of the disaster.

QPRs are filed quarterly and track the 

progress of projects programmatically 

as well as financially.

EXTRAORDINARY

POST-DISASTER CODE 

ENFORCEMENT COSTS

Under certain conditions, HMGP will 

fund extraordinary post-disaster code 

enforcement costs. It is most 

advantageous for a local community to 

use post-disaster code enforcement 

during the response and recovery 

phase.

Extraordinary post-disaster code 

enforcement costs are the costs to 

ensure disaster-resistant codes are 

implemented during disaster 

reconstruction after the normal costs of 

the building department are deducted. 

A.11 Post-Disaster Code Enforcement

Projects

Extraordinary post-disaster code enforcement costs

may be eligible under HMGP. Extraordinary needs 

associated with enforcing local building codes during 

post-disaster reconstruction may include the 

performance of building department functions, such as 

building inspections, and the performance of 

Substantial Damage determinations under the NFIP. 

Usually, it is most advantageous for a local community 

to use post-disaster code enforcement during the 

response and recovery phase.

A post-disaster code enforcement project may be 

funded through HMGP if: 
♦ The Recipient assesses existing building code and/or zoning and land use management

regulations and determines that they adequately address the identified natural hazard risks.

The Recipient determines that the local community has adopted a building code consistent

with a recent edition of the International Code Series, conforms to State-model or Statemandated building codes, and, if the local community participates in the NFIP, has local

floodplain management measures in place that meet the minimum requirements for

participation in the NFIP.

♦ The Recipient evaluates the building department and determines that its organization,

funding, and enforcement and inspection processes are sufficient to ensure proper

enforcement of all applicable laws and ordinances during normal operations.

♦ The Recipient evaluates the building department and identifies deficiencies, and the local

community agrees to address any deficiencies identified in this evaluation as a condition of

receiving the subaward. This agreement can be a simple statement attached to the evaluation

and should include an implementation schedule that is mutually satisfactory to the Recipient,

the subrecipient, and FEMA. The agreement should include an acknowledgment by the

subrecipient that failure to meet the agreed upon implementation schedule can result in the

loss of all current and/or future building department assistance used to support post-disaster

operations.

The State’s assessment can be accomplished through various mechanisms. Any assessment 

should include a discussion of the community’s compliance with the NFIP. Suggested 

assessment approaches include (but are not limited to): 

♦ Employing a mutual-aid agreement among communities to use other local building officials

♦ Entering into a contractual agreement with a State or regional government entity that is well

versed in building codes and proper administration of a building department

♦ Entering into a contractual agreement with one of the model building code organizations

♦ Employing building code experts temporarily

♦ Requesting FEMA technical assistance regarding building codes and proper building

department administration (former local building officials can often provide the requisite

knowledge)

♦ Requesting the Hazard Mitigation Technical Assistance Program

HMGP funds only extraordinary post-disaster code enforcement costs. Extraordinary postdisaster code enforcement costs are the costs to ensure disaster-resistant codes are implemented 

during disaster reconstruction after normal costs of the building department are deducted. Costs 

might include staffing, equipment purchases, office rental, transportation, supplies, and similar 

expenses. Extraordinary costs equal disaster costs minus normal costs and cost of fees or fee 

waivers. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 107
Disaster costs can be determined by the payroll and office expenses during the period of 

assistance. If the subapplicant must purchase new equipment, only the equivalent rental cost of 

this equipment for the period of assistance is considered a disaster cost. The revenues generated 

by fees for inspections or permits, whether collected or not, must be deducted. Normal costs can 

be determined from a monthly average of payroll and office expenses during the most recent 12-

month period that does not included Federal, State, or local disaster declarations. If a community 

has already received Federal assistance for meeting emergency building inspection needs (such 

as determining habitability), these costs must be deducted in determining extraordinary costs. 

A.12 Advance Assistance

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 108

ADVANCE ASSISTANCE

FEMA may provide up to 25 percent 

(with a limit of $10 million) of the amount 

of estimated HMGP costs to Applicants 

and subapplicants in advance of 

incurring eligible costs. 

FEMA expects States that receive 

Advance Assistance to submit complete 

project applications up to or over the 

available HMGP ceiling by the final 

HMGP project application deadline. 

Advance Assistance is authorized by the SRIA, which 

allows advancing up to 25 percent of the HMGP

ceiling or $10 million to Applicants and subapplicants, 

whichever is less. The purpose of Advance Assistance 

is to provide States and federally-recognized tribes 

with resources to develop mitigation strategies and 

obtain data to prioritize, select, and develop complete 

HMGP applications in a timely manner. FEMA 

expects Applicants and subapplicants that receive 

Advance Assistance to submit complete project 

applications up to or over the HMGP ceiling by the 

application deadline. 

FEMA will continue to implement Advance Assistance on a pilot basis for any State or federallyrecognized tribe having a declaration with an open application period. Advance Assistance is not 

automatic. States and federally-recognized tribes may request Advance Assistance by submitting 

an HMGP application form to the Regional Mitigation Division Director. The application must 

identify the proposed use of the funds, including costs in sufficient detail for each proposed 

activity and milestones for submitting completed HMGP applications to FEMA. Advance 

Assistance is subject to the HMGP cost-share requirements and SFM (i.e., FEMA will not 

obligate funds until the Recipient has an immediate need for the funds). Advance Assistance is 

part of the HMGP ceiling amount. 

Applicants and subapplicants may use Advance Assistance for the following activities: 

♦ Obtain staff or resources to develop a cost-share strategy and identify potential match

funding

♦ Evaluate facilities or areas to determine appropriate mitigation actions

♦ Incorporate EHP considerations early into program decisions

♦ Collect data for BCAs, EHP compliance, and other program requirements
♦ Scope and prioritize hazard mitigation projects (including State coordination of local

projects) to incorporate sustainability, resilience, and renewable building concepts

♦ Develop hazard mitigation projects, including engineering design and feasibility actions

♦ Incorporate SFM principles into mitigation project work schedules and budgets that will

facilitate compliance with the legislative requirement to expend obligated funds within 24

months

♦ Conduct meetings, outreach, and coordination with potential subapplicants and community

residents to identify potential participants for property acquisition and demolition or

relocation projects

♦ Conduct engineering design and feasibility studies for larger or complex community drainage

projects or critical facility retrofits (such as for phased projects)

♦ Conduct hydrologic and hydraulic studies for unmapped flood zones or Approximate Zone A

areas where communities propose to submit hazard mitigation projects

♦ Perform professional cost estimation services to aid consistency in project budgeting across

subapplications

♦ Rectify data consistency needs for other project application categories, such as EHP

compliance, cost-sharing mechanisms, and work schedules

♦ Complete necessary documents for deed restricting properties such as acknowledgement of

voluntary participation or Model Acknowledgement of Conditions for Mitigation of Property

in a Special Flood Hazard Area with FEMA Grant Funds for property acquisition projects

Requirements and deliverables associated with Advance Assistance and resulting HMGP

applications may include:

♦ Documentation of Advance Assistance Accomplishments: Applicants and subapplicants

must submit documentation to FEMA to support that they accomplished all activities listed in

their Advance Assistance application.

♦ Submission of Projects up to the HMGP Ceiling: FEMA expects States that receive

Advance Assistance to submit complete project applications up to or over the available

HMGP ceiling by the final HMGP project application deadline.

♦ Accounting for Use of Advance Assistance Funds: For accounting and audit purposes, the

State must submit sufficient financial detail to demonstrate that no costs claimed under

Advance Assistance are duplicated in subsequent HMGP project applications or in State

Management Cost budgets.

♦ Documentation of EHP Considerations: The Applicant and subapplicant must document

that effects to environmental and historic resources were considered early in the planning and

project scoping processes. This requirement is in addition to ensuring EHP compliance.

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 109
For additional information on Advance Assistance, see HMA Job Aid (Hazard Mitigation Grant 

Program Advance Assistance Pilot - Optional Application). 

A.13 Phased Projects

In general, sufficient technical information is provided by the Applicant or subapplicant to allow 

FEMA to make an eligibility determination on a subapplication. The costs to obtain this 

information are generally eligible as pre-award costs (see Part IV, F.2 for more information). 

However, in rare circumstances it is beyond the subapplicant’s technical and financial resources 

to provide the complete technical information required for a full eligibility or EHP review of a 

complex project. The Applicant and FEMA may provide technical assistance to the subapplicant 

to develop this complete body of technical data by approving a subapplication to complete a 

Phase I design, engineering, EHP, or feasibility study. The Phase I study provides FEMA with a 

technical body of information mutually concurred on by the subapplicant, the Applicant, and 

FEMA to determine project eligibility. If the results of the Phase I review indicate that the 

project meets HMGP requirements, the project would then be eligible for funding for 

construction under a Phase II approval. Phase I study funding is part of the project’s total 

estimated cost and is subject to HMGP cost-share requirements.

The use of a Phase I study should be limited to complex projects that require technical or EHP

data beyond the scope of that generally required for a typical HMGP project. The following 

provides guidelines and outlines the process for selecting projects for Phase I/Phase II project 

approval. 

A.13.1 Pre-screening Process

The project must meet the following pre-screening criteria for a conditional Phase I approval in 

the following sequence: 

♦ State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan: The proposed project must be

in conformance with the State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan.

♦ Justification for Selection of the Proposed Project: Justification must be provided for the

selection of the proposed solution after consideration of a range of options.

♦ Potential Cost-Effectiveness: The project demonstrates potential cost-effectiveness based

on a preliminary assessment of anticipated project benefits and cost. The subapplicant must

be aware that this preliminary assessment is solely for the purpose of the Phase I prescreening process and is not the final cost-effectiveness determination.

♦ EHP Review: An initial review to identify major EHP compliance issues and information

needs is required to complete the formal review process. The Phase I study is categorically

excluded from NEPA review.

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 110
♦ Hydrologic and Hydraulic or Other Relevant Technical Data: The subapplicant provides

available hydrologic and hydraulic data based on existing models and other relevant technical

data, as appropriate.

A.13.2 Phase I Conditional Approval

The Applicant and FEMA may approve projects meeting the above pre-screening requirements 

for technical assistance under a Phase I conditional approval. FEMA and the Applicant will 

coordinate closely to ensure mutual concurrence on all data and technical information as the 

Phase I technical review process proceeds. The sequence for the process is as follows:

♦ Hydrologic and Hydraulic or Other Relevant Technical Data: If appropriate, the

Applicant and FEMA will review the hydrologic and hydraulic or other technical data

provided by the subapplicant.

♦ Preliminary Engineering Design: Based on the technical data, the subapplicant develops a

preliminary engineering design and layout and cost estimates with ad hoc technical assistance

from the Applicant and FEMA.

♦ EO 11988: If applicable, based on the technical data and revised engineering design, the

project must demonstrate compliance with floodplain management requirements under this

EO. If a FIRM amendment or revision will be necessary, the Applicant and FEMA will

provide the subapplicant with technical assistance to meet this requirement.

♦ Refinement of the Cost-Effectiveness Assessment: Based on the revised design and cost

estimates, the Applicant and FEMA will refine the preliminary assessment of costeffectiveness conducted in the Phase I pre-screening process. This will result in a final BCR

to evaluate the project’s cost-effectiveness, which will include all the project costs, including

Phase I.

♦ EHP Review: The Applicant and FEMA will conduct a review of the revised project design

to ensure EHP compliance. The project will meet EHP requirements before Phase II

approval.

A.13.3 Phase II Approval – Construction Process

If the project is determined to be eligible, technically feasible, cost effective, and compliant with 

EHP requirements under the Phase I technical review, the project may then be approved for 

construction under Phase II.

A.14 The 5 Percent Initiative

Some mitigation activities are difficult to evaluate using FEMA-approved cost-effectiveness 

methodologies. Up to 5 percent of the total HMGP funds may be set aside by the Recipient to 

pay for such activities. These funds are not eligible to be used in situations where the mitigation 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 111
activities can be evaluated under FEMA-approved cost-effectiveness methodologies but do not 

meet the required BCA threshold. 

To be eligible for the 5 Percent Initiative, activities must:

♦ Be difficult to evaluate against traditional program cost-effectiveness criteria

♦ Comply with all applicable HMGP eligibility criteria as well as with Federal, State, and local

laws and ordinances

♦ Be consistent with the goals and objectives of the State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced)

Mitigation Plans and local mitigation plans

♦ Be submitted for review with a narrative that indicates that there is a reasonable expectation

that future damage or loss of life or injury will be reduced or prevented by the activity

Activities that might be funded under the 5 Percent Initiative include: 

♦ The use, evaluation, and application of new, unproven mitigation techniques, technologies,

methods, procedures, or products

♦ Equipment and systems for the purpose of warning citizens of impending hazards

♦ Purchase of generators or related equipment, such as generator hook-ups

♦ Hazard identification or mapping and related equipment for the implementation of mitigation

activities

♦ Acquisition of GIS software, hardware, and data whose primary aim is mitigation

♦ Public awareness or education campaigns about mitigation

♦ Evaluation of model building codes in support of future adoption and/or implementation

A.14.1 Availability of Additional Funds for Mitigation Activities 

FEMA allows increasing the 5 Percent Initiative amount 

up to 10 percent for a Presidential major disaster 

declaration at the discretion of the Recipient. The 

increased initiative funding can be used for activities 

that address promoting disaster-resistant codes for all 

hazards. To qualify for this funding, the Recipient or 

subrecipient must agree to adopt and promote disasterresistant codes or improve their BCEGS rating during the 

POP. The Recipient must document the increase in BCEGS prior to the closeout of the project 

award.

The additional funds can be used for following activities:

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 112

ADDITIONAL 5 PERCENT

INTIATIVE FUNDING

The additional 5 percent set-aside for 

tornadoes and high winds has been 

modified to address all hazards and to 

promote resilience through the use of 

disaster-resistant building codes.
♦ Adopting and enforcing the latest International Building Code/International Residential

Code

♦ Improving a BCEGS score

♦ Upgrading existing code to incorporate disaster-resistant code provisions

♦ Integrating flood-resistant elements of the building code into local floodplain management

ordinances

A.15 Appeal Process

An eligible subapplicant, subrecipient, or Recipient may appeal any FEMA determination 

regarding subapplications or applications submitted for funding under HMGP. FEMA will only 

consider written appeals that justify the request for reconsideration. The appeal should specify 

the monetary figure in dispute and the provisions in Federal law, regulation, or policy with which 

the appellant believes the initial action was inconsistent. 

Whether the appeal originated with the Recipient or with a subapplicant/subrecipient, the appeal 

must be submitted in writing to the Regional Administrator by the Recipient. The Regional 

Administrator is the decision-maker on first appeals. An appeal of the Regional Administrator’s 

decision on any first appeal (the second appeal) is decided by the Deputy Associate 

Administrator for Mitigation. In some cases, the appeal may involve highly technical issues. In 

these cases, FEMA may consult independent scientific or technical experts on the subject under 

appeal.

To begin the appeal process (including second appeals), appellants must submit documentation 

within 60 days after receiving the initial notice of the action on the first appeal. The Recipient

must forward all appeals from a subapplicant/subrecipient with a written recommendation to the 

Regional Administrator within 60 days of receipt. The Region will forward second appeals with 

recommendation and associated documentation to FEMA Headquarters. Within 90 days 

following the receipt of an appeal, FEMA will notify the Recipient in writing of the disposition 

of the appeal or of the need for additional information. 

If additional information is needed, FEMA will determine a date by which the information must 

be provided. Within 90 days following the receipt of the requested additional information (or 90 

days after the information was due), FEMA will notify the Recipient in writing of the disposition 

of the appeal. 

FEMA will provide its decision to the Recipient in writing. If the decision is to grant the appeal, 

the Regional Administrator will take the appropriate action.

Additional information regarding appeals can be found at 44 CFR Section 206.440 and in the 

HMA Job Aid (Second Appeal Job Aid for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program). 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 113
B. Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program

Most of the information that an Applicant or subapplicant needs to apply for a PDM award or 

that a Recipient or subrecipient needs to manage a PDM award is provided in Parts I through 

VII. This section contains supplemental guidance specific to PDM.

B.1 Allocation

FEMA will allocate funds for eligible activities consistent with applicable, statutory base and/or 

maximum allocations in the authorizing and appropriation laws. FEMA will administer the 

program as directed by Congress. 

B.2 Small Impoverished Communities

Small and impoverished communities may receive a Federal cost share of up to 90 percent of the 

total amount approved under the Federal award to implement eligible approved activities in 

accordance with the Stafford Act. A small impoverished community must:

♦ Be a community of 3,000 or fewer individuals identified by the Applicant as a rural

community that is not a remote area within the corporate boundaries of a larger city or

jurisdictional area or boundary

♦ Be economically disadvantaged, with residents having an average per capita annual income

not exceeding 80 percent of the national per capita income, based on best available data. For

the most current information on the national income, see http://www.bea.gov.

♦ Have a local unemployment rate that exceeds by 1 percentage point or more the most

recently reported, average yearly national unemployment rate. For the most current

unemployment information, see http://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.us.htm.

♦ Meet other criteria required by the Applicant

Applicants must certify and provide documentation of the community or jurisdictional status 

with the appropriate subapplication to justify the 90 percent cost share. If documentation is not 

submitted with the subapplication, FEMA will provide no more than the standard 75 percent of 

the total eligible costs.

B.3 Information Dissemination

Under PDM, subapplicants may include eligible information dissemination activities in their 

project or planning subapplication. Eligible information dissemination activities include public 

awareness and education (brochures, workshops, videos, etc.) that directly relate to the eligible 

mitigation activity proposed in the subapplication. Information dissemination activities are 

limited to a maximum of 10 percent of the total cost of a subapplication and must be identified 

separately in the cost estimate. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program 114
B.4 Applicant Ranking of Subapplications

Applicants must rank each subapplication included in their grant application in order of their 

priority for funding. Each subapplication must be assigned a unique rank in eGrants. Applicants 

must provide an explanation for the rank given to each subapplication and demonstrate how it is 

consistent with their State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan. 

B.5 Selection

FEMA will consider subapplications for further review based on Applicant rank. FEMA may 

identify a subapplication for further review out of rank order based on considerations such as 

program priorities, available funds, and policy factors. 

FEMA will notify Applicants whose subapplications are identified for further review. However, 

this notification and the Applicant’s compliance with FEMA-requested pre-award activities is not 

considered notification or guarantee of an award.

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program 115
C. Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 

Most of the information that an Applicant or subapplicant needs to apply for an FMA award or 

that a Recipient or subrecipient needs to manage an FMA award is provided in Parts I through 

VII. This section contains supplemental guidance specific to FMA.

C.1 Eligible Properties

Properties included in a project subapplication for FMA funding must be NFIP-insured at the 

time of the application submittal and prior to the period of availability or application start date. 

Flood insurance must be maintained through completion of the mitigation activity and for the life 

of the structure. 

To receive an increased Federal cost share, properties must meet one of the definitions below 

(consistent with the legislative changes made in the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act 

of 2012): 

♦ A severe repetitive loss property is a structure that:

(a) Is covered under a contract for flood insurance made available under the NFIP 

(b) Has incurred flood related damage – 

(i) For which 4 or more separate claims payments (includes building and contents) 

have been made under flood insurance coverage with the amount of each such 

claim exceeding $5,000, and with the cumulative amount of such claims 

payments exceeding $20,000 

 or 

(ii) For which at least 2 separate claims payments (includes only building) have been 

made under such coverage, with the cumulative amount of such claims exceeding 

the market value of the insured structure 

♦ A repetitive loss property is a structure covered by a contract for flood insurance made

available under the NFIP that:

(a) Has incurred flood-related damage on 2 occasions, in which the cost of the repair, on 

the average, equaled or exceeded 25 percent of the market value of the structure at the 

time of each such flood event 

 and 

(b) At the time of the second incidence of flood-related damage, the contract for flood 

insurance contains increased cost of compliance coverage 

The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 cites the repetitive loss structure 

definition located in Section 1370 of the Flood Insurance Act. This is the definition that 

communities typically reference when trying to determine eligibility for ICC when a property 

has sustained multiple losses that cumulatively equal or exceed 50 percent of the structure’s 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 116
value. For a structure to be eligible for the increased Federal cost share of 90 percent, a property 

must meet the FMA repetitive loss definition in the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act 

of 2012. 

C.2 Repetitive Loss Strategy

To be eligible for an increased Federal cost share, a FEMA-approved State or Tribal (Standard or 

Enhanced) Mitigation Plan that addresses repetitive loss properties must be in effect at the time 

of Federal award and the property that is being submitted for consideration must be a repetitive 

loss property. Guidance on addressing repetitive loss properties can be found in the State MultiHazard Mitigation Planning Guidance and in 44 CFR Section 201.4(c)(3)(v). The Repetitive 

Loss Strategy must identify the specific actions the State has taken to reduce the number of 

repetitive loss properties, which must include severe repetitive loss properties, and specify how 

the State intends to reduce the number of such repetitive loss properties. In addition, the hazard 

mitigation plan must describe the State’s strategy to ensure that local jurisdictions with severe 

repetitive loss properties take actions to reduce the number of these properties, including the 

development of local or Tribal Mitigation Plans. For information about the Repetitive Loss 

Database, see Part VI, F.2.2.

C.3 Cost Sharing

Consistent with the legislative changes made in the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act 

of 2012, cost-share availability under FMA depends on the type of properties included in the 

subapplication. For example, severe repetitive loss properties may receive up to 100 percent 

Federal funding and repetitive loss properties may receive up to 90 percent Federal funding. 

FEMA contributions to the Federal share are as follows:

♦ In the case of mitigation activities to severe repetitive loss structures:

− FEMA may contribute up to 100 percent Federal funding of all eligible costs, if the 

activities are technically feasible and cost effective. 

− The expected savings to the NFIF from expected avoided damage through acquisition 

or relocation activities, if the activities will eliminate future payments from the NFIF 

for severe repetitive loss structures through an acquisition or relocation activity. 

− Under FMA, acquisition or relocation projects may utilize the GSTF as an alternative 

when projects are not cost effective using other techniques (i.e., BCA, pre-calculated 

benefits). This means property owners may voluntarily elect to accept the GSTF 

calculation in lieu of the market value of the structure, not to exceed the GSTF value, 

as the Federal cost share contribution. For example, if a severe repetitive loss property 

has a GSTF of $75,000 and a BCR of 0.52 using the FEMA BCA Toolkit ($100,000 in 

future losses avoided and $189,000 in project costs), they may choose to accept the 

GSTF value of $75,000 even though the project is not cost effective. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 117
− Additional information on GSTF is available in Part IV, I.5. 

♦ In the case of mitigation activities to repetitive loss structures, FEMA may contribute up to

90 percent Federal funding of all eligible costs.

♦ In the case of all other mitigation activities, FEMA may contribute up to 75 percent Federal

funding of all eligible costs.

Structures with varying cost-share requirements can be submitted in one application. Applicants 

must provide documentation in the project application showing how the final cost share was 

derived. The final cost share will be entered into the eGrants system and documentation showing 

how the final cost share was derived must be attached to the application. 

C.4 Applicant Ranking of Subapplications

Applicants must rank each subapplication included in their grant application in order of priority 

for funding. Each subapplication must be assigned a unique rank in eGrants. Applicants must 

provide an explanation for the rank given to each subapplication and demonstrate how it is 

consistent with their State or Tribal (Standard or Enhanced) Mitigation Plan.

C.5 Selection

FEMA will identify subapplications for further review based on a number of criteria, including 

but not limited to savings to the NFIF, Applicant rank, and property status (e.g., repetitive loss 

property, severe repetitive loss property). FEMA also may identify a subapplication for further 

review out of rank order based on considerations such as program priorities, available funds, and 

other factors.

FEMA will notify Applicants whose subapplications are identified for further review. However, 

this notification and the Applicant’s compliance with FEMA-requested pre-award activities is not 

considered notification or guarantee of an award. 

C.6 Failure to Make Federal Award within 5 Years 

Any subapplication not awarded within 5 years of the date of the application is considered to be 

denied. Any funding amounts allocated for such applications will remain in the NFIF and will 

be made available for future awards. 

Part VIII. Additional Program Guidance: Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 118
PART IX. APPENDICES

A. Acronyms

ASCE American Society of Civil Engineers

BCA 

BCEGS

BCR 

BFE 

CBRA

CBRS

CFDA 

CFR

CRS 

CWA

DHS 

DOB

DOP

EHP

EO 

EOC

ESA 

FAR

FCO

FEMA 

FF

FFE

FFR

FIMA

FIRM 

FMA 

GAR

Benefit-Cost Analysis 

Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule 

Benefit-Cost Ratio

Base Flood Elevation 

Coastal Barrier Resources Act

Coastal Barrier Resources System

Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance

Code of Federal Regulations

Community Rating System

Clean Water Act

Department of Homeland Security

Duplication of Benefits 

Duplication of Programs 

Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation 

Executive Order

Emergency Operation Center

Endangered Species Act

Federal Acquisition Regulations 

Federal Coordinating Officer 

Federal Emergency Management Agency

FEMA Form

Finished Floor Elevation 

Federal Financial Report 

Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration 

Flood Insurance Rate Map 

Flood Mitigation Assistance

Governor’s Authorized Representative 

Part IX. Appendix A: Acronyms 119
GIS Geographic Information System 

GSTF Greatest Savings to the Fund

HMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance

HMGP Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

IA Individual Assistance 

ICC Increased Cost of Compliance 

IDEA Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

IRS Internal Revenue Service

NEMIS National Emergency Management Information System

NEPA National Environmental Policy Act

NFIA National Flood Insurance Act 

NFIF National Flood Insurance Fund 

NFIP National Flood Insurance Program

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

NHPA National Historic Preservation Act

OCFO Office of the Chief Financial Officer

OMB Office of Management and Budget

OPA Otherwise Protected Area

PA Public Assistance

PAS Program Administration by States

PARS Payment and Reporting System 

PDM Pre-Disaster Mitigation

PNP Private Nonprofit 

PPD-8 Presidential Policy Directive 8

POC Point of Contact 

POP Period of Performance

QPR Quarterly Progress Reporting 

RFI Request for Information 

Risk MAP Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning 

SEI Structural Engineering Institute

SF Standard Form 

SFHA Special Flood Hazard Area

Part IX. Appendix A: Acronyms 120
SFM Strategic Funds Management

SF-PPR Standard Form Performance Progress Report

SHMO State Hazard Mitigation Officer

SLR Sea Level Rise

SOW Scope of Work 

SRIA Sandy Recovery Improvement Act of 2013 

Stafford Act Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act

TB Technical Bulletin

URA Uniform Relocation Assistance 

U.S.C. United States Code 

Part IX. Appendix A: Acronyms 121
B. Glossary

Access and Functional Needs: Circumstances that are met for providing physical, 

programmatic, and effective communication access to the whole community by accommodating

individual requirements through universal accessibility and/or specific modifications. Access 

and functional needs include assistance, accommodation, or modification for mobility, 

communication, transportation, safety, health maintenance, etc.; and assistance, accommodation, 

or modification due to any situation (temporary or permanent) that limits an individual’s ability 

to take action in an emergency.

Adverse Impact: In general terms related to Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation 

(EHP) laws, a negative impact (e.g., loss, destruction, modification) to an environmental or 

historic resource that can have a direct, indirect, or cumulative effect on that resource. Impacts 

may be short term or long term in duration.

Applicant: The entity, such as a State, territory, or federally-recognized tribe, applying to the 

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for a Federal award that will be accountable 

for the use of the funds. Once funds are awarded, the Applicant becomes the Recipient or passthrough entity or both. 

Approximate Zone A: An area subject to inundation by the 1-percent-annual-chance flood 

event. Because detailed hydraulic analyses have not been performed, no Base Flood Elevations 

(BFEs) or flood depths are shown. 

Award: A grant of financial assistance for a specified purpose by the Federal government to an 

eligible Recipient. 

Base flood: A flood having a 1 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. 

Base Flood Elevation (BFE): The elevation shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) 

for Zones AE, AH, A1–A30, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/A1–A30, AR/AH, AR/AO, V1–V30, and 

VE that indicates the water surface elevation resulting from a flood that has a 1 percent chance of 

equaling or exceeding that level in any given year.

Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA): A quantitative procedure that assesses the cost-effectiveness of a 

hazard mitigation measure by taking a long-term view of avoided future damage as compared to 

the cost of a project. 

Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR): A numerical expression of the cost-effectiveness of a project 

calculated as the net present value of total project benefits divided by the net present value of

total project costs. 

Biomass: Biological material derived from living or recently living organisms.

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 122
Building: A structure with two or more outside rigid walls and a fully secured roof that is affixed 

to a permanent site; a manufactured home or a mobile home without wheels, built on a chassis 

and affixed to a permanent foundation, that is regulated under the community’s floodplain 

management and building ordinances or laws. “Building” does not mean a gas or liquid storage 

tank or a recreational vehicle, park trailer, or other similar vehicle. 

Clean-site certification: A letter from the appropriate local, State, territory, federally-recognized 

tribe, or Federal entity determining that no further remedial action is required to protect human 

health or the environment. 

Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA): This Act passed in 1982 and amended in 1990 aims to 

remove the Federal incentive to allow for development within coastal barrier areas within the 

United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as preserve the ecological 

integrity of areas that serve as storm buffers. The Act designates Coastal Barrier Resources 

System (CBRS) units and made these areas ineligible for most Federal expenditures and 

financial assistance, including Federal flood insurance; the law does provide for funding 

exceptions within Section 6. The law also designates Otherwise Protected Areas (OPAs) for 

which only flood insurance is prohibited. 

Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS): A geographic unit designated to serve as a 

protective barrier against forces of wind and tidal action caused by coastal storms and serving as 

habitat for aquatic species. Congress restricted Federal spending and assistance for 

development-related activities within CBRS units to protect them from further development. 

Flood insurance is unavailable in these areas unless exceptions of Section 6 of CBRA apply. 

CBRS units are identified on FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). 

Coastal High Hazard Area: An area of special flood hazard extending from offshore to the 

inland limit of a primary frontal dune along an open coast and any other area subject to high 

velocity wave action from storms or seismic sources.

Combustible material: Any material that, in the form in which it is used and under the 

conditions anticipated, will ignite and burn or will add appreciable heat to an ambient fire. 

Community Rating System (CRS): A program developed by FEMA to provide incentives for 

those communities in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) that have gone beyond the 

minimum floodplain management requirements to develop extra measures to provide protection 

from flooding. 

Cost-effectiveness: Determined by a systematic quantitative method for comparing the costs of 

alternative means of achieving the same stream of benefits for a given objective. The benefits in 

the context of hazard mitigation are avoided future damage and losses. Cost-effectiveness is 

determined by performing a BCA. 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 123
Critical action: An action for which even a slight chance of flooding is too great. The minimum

floodplain of concern for critical actions is the 500-year floodplain, i.e., critical action floodplain. 

Critical actions include, but are not limited to, those which create or extend the useful life of 

structures or facilities such as: 

♦ Those which produce, use, or store highly volatile, flammable, explosive, toxic, or waterreactive materials

♦ Hospitals and nursing homes, and housing for the elderly, which are likely to contain

occupants who may not be sufficiently mobile to avoid the loss of life or injury during flood

and storm events

♦ Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs) or data storage centers, which contain records or

services that may become lost or inoperative during flood and storm events

♦ Generating plants and other principal points of utility lines

Critical facilities: Structures and institutions necessary, in the community’s opinion, for 

response to and recovery from emergencies. Critical facilities must continue to operate during 

and following a disaster to reduce the severity of impacts and accelerate recovery. These would 

include, but not be limited to: 

♦ Structures or facilities that produce, use, or store highly volatile, flammable, explosive, toxic,

and/or chemically-reactive materials

♦ Hospitals, nursing homes, and housing likely to have occupants who may not be sufficiently

mobile to avoid injury or death during an emergency

♦ Police stations, fire stations, vehicle and equipment storage facilities, and EOCs that are

needed for emergency response activities before, during, and after the event

♦ Public and private utility facilities that are vital to maintaining or restoring normal services to

affected areas before, during, and after the event

♦ Other structures or facilities the community identifies as meeting the general criteria above

This definition is for HMA program use and clarification and is not meant to provide a definition 

for use under other programs or supersede any FEMA regulation.

Defensible space: An area that is either natural or manmade, where material capable of allowing 

a fire to spread unchecked has been treated, cleared, or modified to slow the rate and intensity of 

an advancing wildfire and to create an area for fire-suppression operations to occur. 

Direct costs: Costs that can be identified specifically with a particular final cost objective, such 

as a Federal award or cost that can be linked to a specific project. 

Dwelling: A building designed for use as a residence for no more than four families or a singlefamily unit in a building under a condominium form of ownership. 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 124
Elevated building: A building that has no basement and a lowest floor that is elevated to or 

above the BFE by foundation walls, shear walls, posts, piers, pilings, or columns. Solid 

perimeter foundations walls are not an acceptable means of elevating buildings in Zones V and 

VE.

Environmental benefits: Direct or indirect contributions that ecosystems make to the 

environment and human populations. For FEMA BCA, certain types of environmental benefits 

may be realized when homes are removed and land is returned to open space uses. Benefits may 

include flood hazard reduction; an increase in recreation and tourism; enhanced aesthetic value; 

and improved erosion control, air quality, and water filtration. 

Equipment: Tangible personal property (including information technology systems) having a 

useful life of more than 1 year and a per-unit acquisition cost that equals or exceeds the lesser of 

the capitalization level established by the non-Federal entity for financial statement purposes or 

$5,000. 

Federal agency: Any department, independent establishment, Government corporation, or other 

agency of the executive branch of the Federal Government, including the U.S. Postal Service, but 

not the American National Red Cross. 

Federal award: The Federal financial assistance that a non-Federal entity receives directly from 

FEMA or indirectly from a pass-through entity or the instrument such as the FEMA-State 

Agreement, cooperative agreement, or other agreement setting forth the terms and conditions of 

the financial assistance. 

Federal awarding agency: The Federal agency that provides a Federal award directly to a nonFederal entity.

Federal award date: The date when the Federal award is signed by the authorized official of the 

Federal awarding agency.

Federally-recognized tribe: The governing body of any Indian or Alaska Native tribe, band, 

nation, pueblo, village, or community that the Secretary of the Interior acknowledges to exist as 

an Indian tribe under the Federally Recognized Tribe List Act of 1994 (25 U.S.C. 479a et seq. 

This does not include Alaska Native corporations, the ownership of which is vested in private 

individuals. 

Firebreak: A strip of cleared land that provides a gap in vegetation or other combustible 

material that is expected to slow or stop the progress of a wildfire.

Fire-proofing: Removal or treatment of fuels to reduce the danger of fires igniting or spreading 

(e.g., fire-proofing roadsides, campsites, structural timber). 

Fire-resistant material: Material that has a property that prevents or retards the passage of 

excessive heat, hot gases, or flames under conditions of use. 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 125
Fire retardant: A chemical applied to lumber or other wood products to slow combustion and 

flame spread.

Fire Severity Zone: Three concentric zones around a building used to determine the most 

effective design for defensible space.

Flammability: The relative ease with which fuels ignite and burn regardless of the quantity of 

the fuels.

Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM): Official map of a community on which FEMA has 

delineated both the special hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the 

community. 

Floodplain: Any land area that FEMA has determined has at least a 1 percent chance in any 

given year of being inundated by floodwaters from any source. 

Floodplain management: The operation of an overall program of corrective and preventive 

measures for reducing flood damage, including but not limited to, emergency preparedness plans, 

flood control works, and floodplain management regulations. 

Floodway: The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be 

reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface 

elevation more than a designated height. Communities regulate development in these floodways 

to ensure that there are no increases in upstream flood elevations.

Freeboard: Freeboard is a factor of safety usually expressed in feet above a flood level for 

purposes of floodplain management. “Freeboard” tends to compensate for the many unknown 

factors that could contribute to flood heights greater than the height calculated for a selected size 

flood and floodway conditions, such as wave action, bridge openings, and the hydrological effect 

of urbanization of the watershed. 

Fuel break: A natural or manmade change in fuel characteristics that affects fire behavior so that 

fires burning into them can be more readily controlled. 

Fuel condition: Relative flammability of fuel as determined by fuel type and environmental 

conditions. 

Governor’s Authorized Representative (GAR): The individual, designated by the Governor, 

who serves as the grant administrator for all funds provided under the Hazard Mitigation Grant 

Program (HMGP); the person empowered by the Governor to execute, on behalf of the State, all 

necessary documents for disaster assistance.

Green open space: Green open space is land that does not directly touch a natural body of water, 

such as a river, lake, stream, creek, or coastal body of water. 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 126
Hazardous fuels reduction: An activity in an area strategically located in relation to predicted 

fire hazard and occurrence for which the vegetation has been permanently modified or replaced 

so that fires burning into it can be more easily controlled (e.g., vegetation management 

activities).

Hazard mitigation planning: A process used by governments to identify risks, assess 

vulnerabilities, and develop long-term strategies for protecting people and property from the 

effects of future natural hazard events. 

HMGP lock-in ceiling: The level of HMGP funding available to a Recipient for a particular 

Presidential major disaster declaration.

Identified for further review: Subapplications identified for further review contain sufficient 

information for a preliminary determination of cost-effectiveness and feasibility. In certain 

instances, FEMA may work with Applicants to confirm cost-effectiveness and feasibility. 

Identification for further review is not a notification of award. 

Ignition-resistant construction: Construction standards based on use of fire-resistant materials, 

non-combustible materials, and 1-hour fire-rated assemblies.

Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC): Coverage for expenses a property owner must incur, 

above and beyond the cost to repair the physical damage the structure actually sustained from a 

flooding event, to comply with mitigation requirements of State or local floodplain management 

ordinances or laws; acceptable mitigation measures are structure elevation, dry floodproofing, 

structure relocation, structure demolition, or any combination thereof. 

Indian tribe: The governing body of any Indian tribe, band, nation, or other organized group or 

community, including any Alaska Native village or regional or village corporation as defined in 

or established pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1601, et seq.), 

which is recognized as eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United 

States to Indians because of their status as Indians (25 U.S.C. 450b(e)). This definition is for 

HMA program use and clarification and is not meant to provide a definition for use under other 

programs or supersede any FEMA regulations. 

Indirect cost: Costs incurred for a common or joint purpose benefitting more than one cost 

objective, and not readily assignable to the cost objectives specifically benefited, without effort 

disproportionate to the results achieved. 

Indirect cost rate: Percentage established by a Federal department or agency for a non-Federal 

entity to use in computing the dollar amount it charges to the award to reimburse itself for 

indirect costs incurred in doing the work of the award activity.

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 127
Local government: Per 44 CFR 201.2, Local government is any county, municipality, city, 

town, township, public authority, school district, special district, intrastate district, council of 

governments (regardless of whether the council of governments is incorporated as a nonprofit 

corporation under State law), regional or interstate government entity, or agency or 

instrumentality of a local government; any Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, or 

Alaska Native village or organization that is not a federally-recognized tribe; and any rural 

community, unincorporated town or village, or other public entity.

Management costs: Any indirect costs, administrative expenses, and any other expenses not 

directly chargeable to a specific project that are reasonably incurred by a Recipient or 

subrecipient in administering and managing an award or subaward award. For HMGP, 

management cost funding is provided outside of Federal assistance limits defined at 44 CFR 

Section 206.432(b). 

Manufactured (mobile) home: A structure, transportable in one or more sections, that is built on 

a permanent chassis and designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached 

to the required utilities.

Mitigation: Any sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property 

from a hazard event.

Mitigation activity: A mitigation measure, project, plan, or action proposed to reduce risk of 

future damage, hardship, loss, or suffering from disasters. The term “measure” is used 

interchangeably with the term “project” in this program.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Federal program that provides the availability of 

flood insurance in exchange for the adoption of a minimum local floodplain management 

ordinance that regulates new and Substantially Improved development in identified flood hazard 

areas.

Non-combustible material: Material of which no part will ignite and burn when subjected to 

fire, such as any material conforming to ASTM International Standard E136. 

Nonflammable: Material unlikely to burn when exposed to flame under most conditions. 

Non-Federal cost share: The portion of the costs of a federally assisted project or program not 

borne by the Federal Government.

Non-Federal entity: A State, local government, federally-recognized tribe, or private nonprofit 

organization that carries out a Federal award as a Recipient or subrecipient (or a grantee or 

subgrantee as referenced in the previous guidance). 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 128
Non-Federal funds: Financial resources provided by sources other than the Federal 

Government. The term does not include funds provided to a State or local government through a 

Federal grant unless the authorizing statute for that grant explicitly allows the funds to be used as 

cost share for other Federal grants.

Non-residential structure: Includes, but is not limited to small business concerns, places of 

worship, schools, farm buildings (including grain bins and silos), pool houses, clubhouses, 

recreational buildings, mercantile structures, agricultural and industrial structures, warehouses, 

hotels and motels with normal room rentals for less than 6 months’ duration, and nursing homes. 

Office of Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation: A FEMA office that integrates

the protection and enhancement of environmental, historic, and cultural resources into the FEMA 

mission and FEMA programs and activities; ensures that FEMA activities and programs related 

to disaster response and recovery, hazard mitigation, and emergency preparedness comply with 

Federal EHP laws and Executive Orders; and provides EHP technical assistance to FEMA staff, 

local, State, and Federal partners, and Recipients and subrecipients.

Otherwise Protected Areas (OPAs): Designation created by the Coastal Barrier Improvement 

Act. Flood insurance is restricted in OPAs even though they are not in the CBRS and may 

receive other forms of Federal assistance. OPAs are identified on FEMA FIRMs. 

Pass-through entity: A non-Federal entity that provides a subaward to a subrecipient to carry 

out part of a Federal program.

Period of performance (POP): The time during which the non-Federal entity may incur new 

obligations to carry out the work authorized under the Federal award. The Federal awarding 

agency or pass-through entity must include start and end dates of the POP in the Federal award. 

Pile burning: Piling removed vegetation into manageable piles and burning the individual piles 

during safe and approved burning conditions. 

Post-FIRM Building: A building for which construction or Substantial Improvement occurred 

after December 31, 1974, or on or after the effective date of an initial FIRM, whichever is later. 

Practicable: An action that is capable of being done within existing constraints. The test of 

what is practicable depends upon the situation and includes consideration of all pertinent factors, 

such as environment, cost, and technology. 

Pre-FIRM Building: A building for which construction or Substantial Improvement occurred on 

or before December 31, 1974, or before the effective date of an initial FIRM. 

Prescribed burning: The deliberate and managed use of fire ignited by management actions to 

meet specific fuels management objectives.

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 129
Presidentially declared major disaster: Any natural catastrophe (including any hurricane, 

tornado, storm, high water, wind-driven water, tidal wave, tsunami, earthquake, volcanic 

eruption, landslide, mudslide, snowstorm, or drought) or, regardless of cause, any fire, flood, or 

explosion, in any part of the United States that, in the determination of the President, causes 

damage of sufficient severity and magnitude to warrant disaster assistance under the Stafford Act 

to supplement the efforts and available resources of States, local governments, and disaster relief 

organizations in alleviating the damage, loss, hardship, or suffering caused thereby. 

Private nonprofit (PNP): Any nongovernmental agency or entity that currently has (i) an 

effective ruling letter from the Internal Revenue Service granting tax exemption under section 

501(c), (d), or (e) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954, or (ii) satisfactory evidence from the 

State that the organization or entity is a nonprofit one organized or doing business under State 

law.

Project: Any mitigation measure or action proposed to reduce risk of future damage, hardship, 

loss, or suffering from disasters. 

Public Assistance (PA): Supplementary Federal assistance provided under the Stafford Act to 

State and local governments or certain PNP organizations other than assistance for the direct 

benefit of individuals and families. For further information, see 44 CFR Part 206, Subparts G 

and H. Fire Management Assistance Grants under section 420 of the Stafford Act are also 

considered PA. 

Recipient: A non-Federal entity that receives a Federal award directly from a Federal awarding 

agency to carry out an activity under a Federal program. The term Recipient does not include 

subrecipients. 

Replacement cost value: The cost to replace property with materials of like kind and quality, 

without any deduction for depreciation. 

Riparian area: The land that directly abuts a natural body of water, such as a river, lake, stream, 

creek, or coastal body of water.

Slash: The accumulation of vegetative materials such as tops, limbs, branches, brush, and 

miscellaneous residue results from forest management activities such as thinning, pruning, 

timber harvesting, and wildfire hazard mitigation.

Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA): The land in the floodplain within a community subject to 

a 1 percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. An area having special flood, 

mudflow, or flood-related erosion hazards, and shown on a Flood Hazard Boundary Map or a 

FIRM as Zone A, AO, A1–A30, AE, A99, AH, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/AH, AR/AO, AR/A1–

A30, V1–V30, VE, or V. 

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 130
State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO): The representative of a State government who is 

the primary point of contact with FEMA, other Federal agencies, and local units of government 

in the planning and implementation of pre- and post-disaster mitigation activities.

Structural fire protection: The protection of homes or other buildings from wildland fire. 

Subapplicant: The entity, such as a community/local government, federally-recognized tribe, or 

PNP, that submits a subapplication to the Applicant for FEMA assistance. Once funding is 

awarded, the subapplicant becomes the “subrecipient.” 

Subaward: An award provided by a pass-through entity to a subrecipient for the subrecipient to 

carry out part of a Federal award received by the pass-through entity. It does not include 

payments to a contractor or payments to an individual that is a beneficiary of a Federal program. 

A subaward may be provided through any form of legal agreement, including an agreement that 

the pass-through entity considers a contract.

Subrecipient: A non-Federal entity that receives a subaward from a pass-through entity to carry 

out part of a Federal program; but does not include an individual that is a beneficiary of such 

program. A subrecipient may also be a Recipient of other Federal awards directly from a Federal 

awarding agency.

Substantial Damage: Damage of any origin sustained by a building whereby the cost of 

restoring the building to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the 

market value of the building before the damage occurred. 

Substantial Improvement: Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement 

of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure 

before the “start of construction” of the improvement. This term includes structures that have 

incurred “Substantial Damage,” regardless of the actual repair work performed.

Termination: The Federal award may be terminated, in whole or in part, by the Federal 

awarding agency or pass-through entity, if a non-Federal entity fails to comply with the terms 

and conditions of the award: 

♦ For cause

♦ With the consent of the non-Federal entity, in which case the two parties must agree to the

terms and conditions

♦ By the non-Federal entity, upon sending to the Federal awarding agency or pass-through

entity written notification setting forth the reasons for termination, the effective date, and the

portion to be terminated in the case of partial termination. The award may be wholly

terminated where the Federal awarding agency or pass-through entity determines an award

modified by a partial termination will not accomplish the purposes for which it was made.

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 131
Whole Community: The National Mitigation Framework addresses individuals, nonprofit 

entities and nongovernmental organizations, the private sector, communities, critical 

infrastructure interests, governments, and the Nation as a whole. Engaging the whole 

community is critical to success, and individual and community preparedness is a key 

component. The whole community includes children; individuals with disabilities and others 

with access and functional needs; those from religious, racial, and ethnically diverse 

backgrounds; and people with limited English proficiency. Their contributions must be 

integrated into mitigation/resilience efforts, and their needs must be incorporated as the whole 

community plans and executes its core capabilities.

Wildfire: An uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels, exposing and possibly 

consuming structures. 

Wildland-Urban Interface Area: That geographical area where structures and other human 

development meet or intermingle with wildland or vegetative fuels. 

All terms not listed above are used consistent with the term definitions used in 44 CFR unless 

otherwise specified.

Part IX. Appendix B: Glossary 132
C. Additional Resources

Description Web Link or Contact Information

1.

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) http://www.floodsmart.gov

Floodplain Management http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program

Map Service Center http://msc.fema.gov

Telephone: (877) FEMA-MAP (336-2627) 

Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/flood-insurancerate-map-firm

Flood Insurance Studies (FISs) https://www.fema.gov/floodplain-management/flood-insurancestudy

FEMA NFIP Repetitive Loss Update 

Worksheet, Form AW-501

http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program1/mitigated-properties-updates

2.

Hazard Mitigation Planning Overview http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-planning-overview

Local Mitigation Planning Handbook 

(FR302-094-1)

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=7209

Local Mitigation Plan Review Guide http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromse

arch&id=4859

Mitigation Planning Laws, Regulations,

& Guidance 

http://www.fema.gov/mitigation-planning-laws-regulationsguidance

Tribal Multi-Hazard Mitigation Planning 

Guidance

https://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/18355

Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing 

Risk to Natural Hazards

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6938

Integrating Hazard Mitigation Into Local 

Planning: Case Studies and Tools for 

Community Officials

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=7130

Mitigation Planning How-To Guides (FEMA) https://www.fema.gov/media-library/resourcesdocuments/collections/6

Hazard Mitigation Planning Risk Assessment http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-planning-riskassessment

IS-318: Mitigation Planning for Local and 

Tribal Communities

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/courseOverview.aspx?code

=is-318

IS-328: Plan Review for Local Mitigation 

Plans

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/courseOverview.aspx?code

=IS-328

Hazus http://www.fema.gov/hazus

U.S. Geological Survey National Map http://nationalmap.gov/

U.S. Geological Survey Natural Hazards http://www.usgs.gov/natural_hazards/

Part IX. Appendix C: Additional Resources 133

1. National Flood Insurance Program Resources

2. Mitigation Planning and Risk Assessment Resources
Description Web Link or Contact Information

3. Benefit-Cost Analysis Resources

BCA Software and Helpline Telephone: 1-855-540-6744

Email: bchelpline@fema.dhs.gov

Program Guidelines, Methodologies, Software 

Modules, and Training Materials

http://www.fema.gov/benefit-cost-analysis

BCA Policies http://www.fema.gov/benefit-cost-analysis

4. Feasibility and Effectiveness Resources

Helpline for guidance on FEMA Building 

Science publications

Email: FEMA-BuildingScienceHelp@fema.dhs.gov

Helpline for guidance on FEMA Safe Room 

publications

Email: Saferoom@fema.dhs.gov

Building Science https://www.fema.gov/building-science

Engineering Case Studies http://www.fema.gov/grant-applicant-resources

Property Acquisition Projects http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1861

Structure Elevation Projects http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1862

Minor Localized Flood Reduction Projects http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1863

Non-structural Seismic Retrofit http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1865

Structural Seismic Retrofit http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1866

Wind Shutters http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1864

5. Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation Resources

PPD-8 (Definition of Resilience) http://www.dhs.gov/presidential-policy-directive-8-nationalpreparedness

President’s Climate Action Plan http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/image/president27

sclimateactionplan.pdf

Environmental Planning and Historic 

Preservation (EHP) Program 

http://www.fema.gov/environmental-planning-and-historicpreservation-program

EHP Helpline Telephone: (866) 222-3580

Email: ehhelpline@fema.dhs.gov

EHP Guidance for FEMA Grant Applicants http://www.fema.gov/environmental-planning-and-historicpreservation-program/environmental-historic-preservation-1

EHP eLearning Tool http://www.fema.gov/environmental-planning-and-historicpreservation-program/elearning-tool-fema-grant-applicants-45

EHP Policies http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance-policy

IS-253.A: Overview of FEMA’s EHP Review http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/IS253a.asp

EHP Resources At-a-Glance: Laws, Rules 

and Tools

http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/30805

EHP at-a-Glance Guide for Project Planning http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/26621

Historic Properties and Hazard Mitigation 

Planning

http://www.fema.gov/environmental-planning-and-historicpreservation-program/integrating-historic-property-cultural

NFIP and Historic Properties http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/13411

Part IX. Appendix C: Additional Resources 134
Description Web Link or Contact Information

National Register of Historic Places http://www.nps.gov/nr/

6. eGrants and NEMIS (HMGP) Resources

FEMA Enterprise Service Desk – for HMGP 

(NEMIS-MT) issues 

Telephone: (888) HLP-FEMA (1-888-457-3362) 

Email: fema-enterprise-service-desk@fema.dhs.gov

FEMA eGrants Helpdesk Telephone: (877) 611-4700

eGrants Applicant Resources http://www.fema.gov/application-development-process/grantapplicants-resources

eGrants Subapplicant Resources http://www.fema.gov/subgrant-applicants-resources

eGrants Applicant Quick Reference Guide http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3266

eGrants Subapplicant Quick Reference Guide http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3267

eGrants System for Grant Applicants online 

course (IS-31) 

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is31a.asp

eGrants System for Subgrant Applicants 

online course (IS-30)

http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/is30a.asp

eGrants Internal System online course (IS-32) http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb/IS/courseOverview.aspx?code

=is-32

MT eGrants Internal Quick Reference Guide http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromse

arch&id=5885

NEMIS-MT Frequently Asked Questions: http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4913

NEMIS-MT User Manual http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4909

7. HMA Application and Award Resources

HMA Overview http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance

HMA Helpline Telephone: (866) 222-3580 

Email: hmagrantshelpline@fema.dhs.gov

HMA Policies http://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-assistance-policy

8. Acquisition Project Resources

Model Deed Restriction http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6327

Model Acknowledgement of Conditions for 

Mitigation in Special Flood Hazard Area

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3592

Model Statement of Assurances http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=6365

Notice of Voluntary Interest http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3595

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3596

Statement of Voluntary Participation http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3333

Part IX. Appendix C: Additional Resources 135
Description Web Link or Contact Information

9. Mitigation Reconstruction References

• ASCE/SEI 24-14, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, 2014

• ASCE/SEI 7-10, Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and Other Structures, 2010

• International Building Code (IBC), 2015 edition

• International Code Council, Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Codes, 4th Edition, 2014

• FEMA P-55, Coastal Construction Manual, 4th Edition, August 2011

• FEMA P-424, Design Guide for Improving School Safety in Earthquakes, Floods and High Winds, December

2010

• FEMA 489, Mitigation Assessment Team Report: Hurricane Ivan in Alabama and Florida, August 2005

• FEMA P-499, Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet Series, December 2010

• FEMA 543, Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and High Winds, January 2007

• FEMA 549, Mitigation Assessment Team Report: Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Coast, July 2006

• FEMA P-550, Recommended Residential Construction for Coastal Areas: Building on Strong and Safe

Foundations, 2nd Edition, December 2009

• FEMA 551, Selecting Appropriate Mitigation Measures for Floodprone Structures, March 2007

• FEMA 577, Design Guide for Improving Hospital Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds: Providing

Protection to People and Buildings, June 2007

• Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 Engineering Standards to HMA Flood Retrofitting and Reconstruction

Projects, November 2013

10. Structure Elevation References

• ASCE/SEI 24-14, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, 2014

• FEMA P-55, Coastal Construction Manual, 4th Edition, August 2011

• FEMA P-259, Engineering Principles and Practices of Retrofitting Floodprone Residential Structures, 3rd

Edition, January 2012

• FEMA P-312, Homeowners Guide to Retrofitting, 3rd Edition, June 2014

• FEMA 347, Above the Flood: Elevating Your Flood Prone House, May 2000

• FEMA P-499, Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet Series, December 2010

• FEMA Technical Bulletin TB-1, Openings in Foundation Walls and Walls of Enclosures, 2008

• FEMA Technical Bulletin TB-5, Free-of-Obstruction Requirements, 2008

• FEMA Technical Bulletin TB-9, Design and Construction Guidance for Breakaway Walls, 2008

• FEMA Form 81-31, NFIP Elevation Certificate, February 2013

• Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 Engineering Standards to HMA Flood Retrofitting and Reconstruction

Projects, November 2013

• Hurricane Sandy Recovery Advisory #7, Reducing Flood Risk and Flood Insurance Premiums for Existing

Residential Buildings in Zone A

11. Dry Floodproofing, Non-residential References

• FEMA P-936, Floodproofing Non-Residential Buildings, July 2013

• Guidance for Applying ASCE 24 Engineering Standards to HMA Flood Retrofitting and Reconstruction

Projects, November 2013

• FEMA P-312, Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting, 3rd Edition, June 2014

• NFIP Technical Bulletin (TB) 3-93, Non-Residential Floodproofing—Requirements and Certification

Part IX. Appendix C: Additional Resources 136
Description Web Link or Contact Information

12. HMA Job Aids

• Homeowner’s Guide to the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

• Strategic Funds Management Toolkit

• Program Administration by States (PAS) Pilot FAQs

• HMGP Advance Assistance Pilot Optional Application

• Federally-Recognized Tribes and Hazard Mitigation Grant Program – Option to Submit as an Applicant or

Subapplicant

• NEPA Flow Chart for HMA Projects

• Section 106 Process under the National Historic Preservation Act

• 8-Step Decision Making Process for Floodplain Management Considerations and Protection of Wetlands

• ICC Fact Sheet

• ICC Assignment of Coverage D Form, National Flood Insurance Program

• Safe Room Project Application Using Pre-Calculated Benefits

• Eligibility of Generators (HMGP and PDM)

• HMGP Second Appeals Process

• Quarterly Progress Report FAQs

• Cost Effectiveness Determination for Residential Hurricane Wind Retrofit

• Closeout Toolkit

• HMA Procurement Standards

• Climate Change Adaptation

Part IX. Appendix C: Additional Resources 137
D. Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance

Reference Description

2 CFR Part 200 Subparts A to F, Uniform 

Administrative Requirements, Cost 

Principles, and Audit Requirements for 

Federal Awards

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has developed 

regulations that streamline language from eight existing OMB 

Circulars (A-21 [2 CFR Part 220], A-87 [2 CFR Part 225], A-89, A102 [45 CFR Part 92], A-110 [2 CFR Part 215], A-122 [2 CFR Part 

230], A-133, and A-50) concerning Federal financial assistance, 

cost principals, and audit and administrative requirements into one 

document called the SuperCircular (2 CFR Part 200 Subparts A to 

F). 

26 CFR Section 1.170A-14, Qualified 

Conservation Contributions

Discusses deductions allowable for charitable contributions of 

interests in properties.

40 CFR Part 312, Innocent Landowners, 

Standards for Conducting All Appropriate 

Inquiries

Provides standards and practices for “all appropriate inquiries” for 

the purposes of the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 

Compensation, and Liability Act Sections 101(35)(B)(i)(I) and 

101(35)(B)(ii) and (iii).

44 CFR Part 9, Floodplain Management 

and Protection of Wetlands

Sets forth policy, procedure, and responsibilities to implement and 

enforce Executive Order (EO) 11988, Floodplain Management, and 

EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands. 

44 CFR Part 10, Environmental 

Considerations

FEMA procedures for implementing the National Environmental 

Policy Act (NEPA). Provides policy and procedures to enable 

FEMA officials to account for environmental considerations when 

authorizing/approving major actions that have a significant impact 

on the environment.

44 CFR Section 59.1, General Provisions, 

Definitions

Defines terms used in the Emergency Management and Assistance 

Federal Regulations. 

44 CFR Part 60, Criteria for Land 

Management and Use 

Contains regulations for sale of flood insurance, criteria to determine 

the adequacy of a community’s floodplain management regulations, 

and the minimum standards for the adoption of floodplain 

management regulations in flood-prone areas.

44 CFR Sections 60.3(b)(5) and (c)(4), 

Criteria for Land Management and Use and 

Floodplain Management Criteria for 

Floodprone Areas

Regulations regarding obtaining the elevation of residential and nonresidential structures.

44 CFR Part 79, Flood Mitigation Grants Prescribes actions, procedures, and requirements for the 

administration the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) program.

44 CFR Part 80, Property Acquisition and 

Relocation for Open Space

Provides actions, procedures, and requirements for the 

administration of FEMA mitigation assistance for projects to acquire 

property for open space purposes under all Hazard Mitigation 

Assistance (HMA) programs. 

44 CFR Part 201, Mitigation Planning Provides information on requirements and procedures for mitigation 

planning as required by the Stafford Act, specifically Section 201.4 

Standard State Mitigation Plans, Section 201.5 Enhanced State 

Mitigation Plans, Section 201.6 Local Mitigation Plans, and Section 

201.7 Tribal Mitigation Plans. 

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 138

REGULATIONS
Reference Description

44 CFR Part 206, Federal Disaster 

Assistance for Disasters Declared On or 

After November 23, 1988 

Prescribes policies and procedures for implementing the sections of 

Public Law 93-288 (the Stafford Act) that are delegated to the 

director of FEMA, including the administration of the Hazard 

Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP). 

44 CFR Part 207, Management Costs Implements Section 324, Management Costs, of the Stafford Act, 

providing actions, procedures, and policies for HMGP management 

costs.

49 CFR Part 24, URA and Real Property 

Acquisition for Federal and Federally 

Assisted Programs 

Promulgates rules to ensure that owners of real property displaced 

or acquired by Federal or federally assisted programs are treated 

fairly, consistently, and equitably, and that agencies who implement 

these regulations do so efficiently and cost effectively.

49 CFR Part 29, Governmentwide 

Debarment and Suspension 

(Nonprocurement)

This part adopts a government-wide system of debarment and 

suspension for nonprocurement activities.

Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) 

Subpart 31.2

The FAR codify and publish uniform policies and procedures for 

acquisition by all executive agencies. Subpart 31.2 refers to 

Contracts with Commercial Organizations.

Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as 

amended, Sections 170(h) (3) and (4)

Provides definitions for qualified conservation organizations and 

conservation purposes, including specific information regarding 

historic structure certification.

Internal Revenue Code of 1954, as 

amended, Sections 501(c), (d), and (e) 

Provides criteria for tax-exempt organizations.

Immigration and Nationality Act Provides a definition for the term “National of the United States.” 

Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 

(Public Law 101-336, as amended by 

Public Law 110-325 [September 25, 2008]; 

104 Stat. 327)

Prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in 

employment, transportation, public accommodation, 

communications, and governmental activities.

Appalachian Regional Commission Funds, 

40 U.S.C. 14321(a)(3), Grants and other 

assistance

Provides information on the authority of the Appalachian Regional 

Commission to make grants for administrative expenses and lists 

what those expenses may and may not include. Also provides 

information on what the local development district’s contributions 

should be.

Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (Public 

Law 94-541; 42 U.S.C. 4151 et seq.)

Requires that certain buildings financed with Federal funds be

designed and constructed to be accessible to the physically 

handicapped. 

Bunning-Bereuter-Blumenauer Flood 

Insurance Reform Act of 2004 (Public Law 

108-264), Part 102

A bill to amend the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 to reduce 

losses to properties for which repetitive flood insurance claim 

payments have been made.

Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act

(Public Law 112-141) July 6, 2012

Flood Insurance Reform and Modernization Act that proposed 

changes to Mitigation Assistance Grants related to flood mitigation. 

Civil Rights Act of 1964, 42 U.S.C. 2000d et 

seq., Title VI of the Civil Rights Act

Prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national 

origin in programs and activities receiving Federal financial 

assistance.

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 139

STATUTES
Reference Description

Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA) 

(Public Law 97-348; 16 U.S.C. 3501 et 

seq.)

Designated various undeveloped coastal barrier islands, depicted by 

specific maps, for inclusion in the Coastal Barrier Resources 

System (CBRS). Areas so designated were made ineligible for 

direct or indirect Federal financial assistance that might support 

development, including flood insurance, except for emergency lifesaving activities. 

Endangered Species Act (ESA) (Public Law 

93-205; 16 U.S.C. 1531–1544)

Prohibits Federal agencies from funding actions that would 

jeopardize the continued existence of endangered or threatened 

species or adversely modify critical habitat. 

Fair Housing Amendments Act 1988 (42 

U.S.C. 3601; Title VIII of the Civil Rights 

Act) 

Prohibits housing discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, 

sex, disability, familial status, and national origin.

Federal Crop Insurance Act, as amended, 7 

U.S.C. 1501 et seq.

Promotes the national welfare by improving the economic stability of 

agriculture through a sound system of crop insurance. 

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

(IDEA) of 1975 (Public Law 94-142; 20 U.S. 

C. 1400 et seq.)

The Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975 is now 

called Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Guarantees a free 

appropriate public education to each child with a disability.

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 

(Public Law 91–190; 42 U.S.C. 4321 and 

4331–4335)

Declares a national policy that encourages productive and enjoyable 

harmony between man and his environment; promotes efforts that 

will prevent or eliminate damage to the environment and biosphere 

and stimulate the health and welfare of man; enriches the 

understanding of the ecological systems and natural resources 

important to the Nation; and establishes a Council on Environmental 

Quality.

National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as 

amended (NFIA), 42 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.

The NFIA created the Federal Insurance Administration and made 

flood insurance available for the first time. The Flood Disaster 

Protection Act of 1973 made the purchase of flood insurance 

mandatory for the protection of property located in the Special Flood 

Hazard Area. 

National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 

1994 (Public Law 103-325)

Amended the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973, providing tools 

to make the NFIP more effective in achieving its goals of reducing 

the risk of flood damage to properties and reducing Federal 

expenditures for uninsured properties that are damaged by floods. 

National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) 

(Public Law 89-665; 16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.)

Establishes a program for the preservation of historic and prehistoric 

resources deemed important to our understanding of prehistory and 

U.S. history and created the National Register of Historic Places. 

National Register of Historic Places The official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. 

It is part of a national program to support public and private efforts 

to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological 

resources. 

Non-Insured Crop Disaster Assistance 

Program, 7 U.S.C. 7333

Provides financial assistance to producers of non-insurable crops 

when low yields, loss of inventory, or prevented planting occur due 

to natural disasters.

Post-Katrina Emergency Management 

Reform Act of 2006 (PKEMRA) (Public Law 

109-295:120 Stat. 1357)

Significantly reorganized FEMA, provided it with substantial new 

authority to remedy gaps in response, and established a more 

robust preparedness mission for FEMA.

Privacy Act of 1974 (5 U.S.C. 552a) Regulates the collection, maintenance, use, and dissemination of 

personal information by Federal executive branch agencies.

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 140
Reference Description

Public Health and Welfare, 42 U.S.C. 5133, 

Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation 

Authorizes the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program (PDM). 

Public Health and Welfare, 42 U.S.C. 5154 

(a), Insurance 

Contains information on compliance with certain regulations and 

maintaining insurance in regard to Applicants and subapplicants 

requesting assistance to repair, restore, or replace damaged 

facilities under this code.

Refugee Education Assistance Act of 1980, 

(Public Law 96-422) Part 501(e) 

Allows the President to exercise authorities over Cuban and Haitian 

immigrants identical to the authorities exercised in the Immigration 

and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1158.

Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Public Law 93-

112; 29 U.S.C. 701 et seq.)

Replaces the Vocational Rehabilitation Act. Prohibits discrimination 

on the basis of disability in programs conducted by Federal 

agencies, in programs receiving Federal financial assistance, in 

Federal employment, and in the employment practices of Federal 

contractors.

Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency 

Assistance Act (Public Law 93-288, 88 Stat. 

143-164, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 5121 et 

seq.)

This Act constitutes the statutory authority for most Federal disaster 

response activities, especially as they pertain to FEMA and FEMA 

programs.

Secure Rural Schools and Community SelfDetermination Act of 2000, 16 U.S.C. 500

Contains information regarding payment and evaluation of receipts 

to a State or territory for schools and roads, moneys received, 

projections of revenues, and estimated payments.

Telecommunications Act of 1996 (Public

Law 104-104; Stat. 110-56)

Promotes competition and reduces regulation in order to secure 

lower prices and higher quality services for American 

telecommunications consumers and encourages the rapid 

deployment of new telecommunications technologies. 

Twenty-first Century Communications and 

Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (Public Law 

111-260; 124 Stat. 2751)

Increases the access of persons with disabilities to modern 

communication. Amends the Communications Act of 1934 to 

require the Federal Communications Commission to require that 

customer premises equipment provide internal means for effective 

use with hearing aids that are designed to be compatible with 

telephones that meet established technical standards for hearing aid 

compatibility.

Uniform Relocation Assistance (URA) and 

Real Property Acquisition Act of 1970 

(Public Law 91-646) 

Ensures that people whose real property is acquired, or who move 

as a result of projects receiving Federal funds, will be treated fairly 

and equitably and will receive assistance in moving from the 

property they occupy.

EO 11988, Floodplain Management Requires Federal agencies to avoid, to the extent possible, the longand short-term adverse impacts associated with the occupancy and 

modification of floodplains and to avoid direct and indirect support of 

floodplain development wherever there is a practicable alternative. 

EO 11990, Protection of Wetlands Requires Federal agencies, in planning their actions, to consider 

alternatives to wetland sites and limit potential damage if an activity 

affecting a wetland cannot be avoided. 

EO 12898, Environmental Justice for LowIncome and Minority Populations

Directs Federal agencies “to make achieving environmental justice 

part of its mission by identifying and addressing, as appropriate, 

disproportionately high and adverse human health or environmental 

effects of its programs, policies, and activities on minority and lowincome populations in the United States.” 

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 141

DIRECTIVES
Reference Description

EO 12372, July 14, 1982, 

Intergovernmental Review of Federal 

Programs

Fosters an intergovernmental partnership and strengthens 

federalism by relying on State and local processes for State and 

local coordination and review of proposed Federal financial 

assistance.

EO 12416, April 8, 1983, Intergovernmental 

Review of Federal Programs

Amends Section 8 of EO 12372 regarding the content of the 

Director of the Office of Management and Budget’s report and to 

whom the report is submitted.

EO 12699, January 5, 1990, Seismic Safety 

of Federal and Federally assisted or 

Regulated New Building Construction

Requires that each Federal agency responsible for the design and 

construction of each new Federal building shall ensure that the 

building is designed and constructed in accordance with appropriate 

seismic design and construction standards.

FEMA P-85, Protecting Manufactured 

Homes from Floods and Other Hazards

(2nd Edition, November 2009)

Provides a best practices approach in reducing damage from 

natural hazards to assist in protecting manufactured homes from 

floods and other hazards.

FEMA 317, Property Acquisition Handbook 

for Local Communities (October 1998)

A “How-To” guide to help communities work through one 

specific hazard mitigation alternative known as property 

acquisition (also referred to as “buyout”). 

FEMA P-320, Taking Shelter from the 

Storm: Building a Safe Room for Your 

Home or Small Business (4th Edition, 2014) 

Guide to help homeowners decide if they should build a safe room

in their house; provides various safe room designs that can be given 

to a contractor/builder.

FEMA P-361, Safe Rooms for Tornadoes 

and Hurricanes: Guidance for Community 

and Residential Safe Rooms (3rd Edition, 

2015) 

A guidance manual for engineers, architects, building officials, and 

prospective safe room owners that presents important information 

about the design and construction of residential and community safe 

rooms that protect people during tornado and hurricane events. 

FEMA P-424, Design Guide for Improving 

School Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and 

High Winds (December 2010)

This manual is intended to provide guidance for the protection of 

school buildings from natural disasters. This volume concentrates 

on grade schools, K-12. FEMA P-424 covers earthquakes, floods, 

and high winds. Its intended audience is design professionals and 

school officials involved in the technical and financial decisions of 

school construction, repair, and renovations.

FEMA 489, Mitigation Assessment Team 

Report: Hurricane Ivan in Alabama and 

Florida (August 2005)

Summarizes the observations, conclusions, and recommendations 

that resulted from post-disaster assessments sponsored by FEMA 

in response to Florida’s 2004 hurricane season.

FEMA P-499, Home Builder’s Guide to 

Coastal Construction Technical Fact Sheet 

Series (December 2010) 

Presents information aimed at improving the performance of 

buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal environments. 

FEMA 543, Design Guide for Improving 

Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and 

High Winds: Providing Protection for People 

and Buildings (January 2007)

Provides building professionals and decision-makers with 

information and guidelines for implementing a variety of mitigation 

measures to reduce the vulnerability to damage and disruption of 

operations during severe flooding and high-wind events. It 

concentrates on critical facilities (hospitals, schools, fire and police 

stations, and emergency operation centers).

FEMA 549, Mitigation Assessment Team 

Report: Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Coast 

(July 2006)

Evaluates and assesses damage from the hurricane and provides 

observations, conclusions, and recommendations on the 

performance of buildings and other structures impacted by wind and 

flood forces. 

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 142

GUIDANCE
Reference Description

FEMA P-55, Coastal Construction Manual, 

(4th Edition, August 2011)

Provides a comprehensive approach to sensible development in 

coastal areas based on guidance from over 200 experts in building 

science, coastal hazard mitigation, and building codes and 

regulatory requirements. 

FEMA P-550, Recommended Residential 

Construction for Coastal Areas: Building on 

Strong and Safe Foundations (2nd Edition, 

December 2009)

Provides recommended designs and guidance for rebuilding homes 

destroyed by hurricanes in the Gulf Coast. The manual also 

provides guidance in designing and building less vulnerable new 

homes that reduce the risk to life and property. 

FEMA 551, Selecting Appropriate Mitigation 

Measures for Floodprone Structures (March 

2007)

This manual is intended to provide guidance to community officials 

for developing mitigation projects that reduce or eliminate identified 

risks for floodprone structures. 

FEMA 577, Design Guide for Improving 

Hospital Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and 

High Winds: Providing Protection to People 

and Buildings (June 2007)

The intent of the Design Guide is to provide its audience with stateof-the-art knowledge on the variety of vulnerabilities faced by 

hospitals exposed to earthquakes, flooding, and high-winds risks, as 

well as the best ways to mitigate the risk of damage and disruption 

of hospital operations caused by these events.

FEMA P-804, Wind Retrofit Guide for 

Residential Buildings (December 2010)

The purpose of this Guide is to provide guidance on how to improve 

the wind resistance of existing residential buildings. The content of 

this document should serve as guidance on retrofitting existing 

buildings for improved performance during high-wind events in all 

coastal regions. 

Mitigation Planning Guidance This guidance provides information on preparing and updating 

mitigation plans in compliance with the mitigation planning 

regulations found at 44 CFR Part 201.

Mitigation Planning How-To Guides (FEMA) These guides focus on initiating and maintaining a planning process 

that will result in safer communities and are applicable to 

jurisdictions of all sizes and all resource and capability levels.

Uniform Standards of Professional 

Appraisal Practice (2012–2013)

The generally accepted standards for professional appraisal 

practice in North America. Standards are included for real estate, 

personal property, business, and mass appraisal. 

Hazard Mitigation Assistance Tool for 

Identifying Duplication of Benefits (January 

2013)

This guide provides instruction on what constitutes Duplication of 

Benefits (DOB) in the use of HMA funds for property mitigation. It 

gives direction regarding verification processes and actions that can 

be taken to ensure that DOB does not occur. 

Government-to-Government Relations with 

American Indian and Alaska Native Tribal 

Governments. January 12, 1999 (Federal 

Register vol. 64 no. 7)

Guides FEMA interactions with American Indian and Alaska Native 

Tribal governments. 

OMB Circular A-94, Guidelines and 

Discount Rates for Benefit-Cost Analysis of 

Federal Programs (October 29, 1992)

Specifies certain discount rates that will be updated annually when 

the interest rate and inflation assumptions in the budget are 

changed. 

ASCE/SEI 24-14, Flood Resistant Design 

and Construction (2014) 

Provides minimum requirements for flood-resistant design and 

construction of structures located in flood hazard areas. 

ASCE/SEI 7-05, Minimum Design Loads for 

Buildings and Other Structures (2005)

Provides requirements for general structural design and includes 

means for determining dead, live, soil, flood, wind, snow, rain, 

atmospheric ice, and earthquake loads, and their combinations that 

are suitable for inclusion in building codes and other documents.

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 143

OTHER RESOURCES
Reference Description

ASTM International Standard E1527-05, 

Standard Practice for Environmental Site 

Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site 

Assessment Process (2005)

Defines good commercial and customary practices for conducting 

an environmental site assessment of a parcel of commercial real 

estate.

ASTM International Standard E2247-08, 

Standard Practice for Environmental Site 

Assessments: Phase I Environmental Site 

Assessment Process for Forestland or 

Rural Property (2008)

This practice is intended for use on a voluntary basis by parties who 

wish to assess the environmental condition of forestland or rural 

property of 120 acres or greater taking into account commonly 

known and reasonably ascertainable information. 

International Building Code (International 

Code Council) 

The scope of this code covers all buildings except three-story, and 

one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes. This comprehensive 

code features time-tested safety concepts, structural, and fire and 

life-safety provisions covering means of egress, interior finish 

requirements, comprehensive roof provisions, seismic engineering 

provisions, innovative construction technology, occupancy 

classifications, and the latest industry standards in material design. 

International Residential Code for One- and 

Two- Family Dwellings (International Code 

Council)

A comprehensive code for homebuilding that brings together all 

building, plumbing, mechanical, and electrical provisions for oneand two-family residences.

International Wildland-Urban Interface

Code (International Code Council; 2012)

Contains provisions addressing fire spread, accessibility, defensible 

space, water supply, and more for buildings constructed near 

wildland areas.

International Code Council, Reducing Flood 

Losses through the International Codes (4th

Edition, 2014) 

This guide is intended to help community officials decide how to 

integrate the 2012 edition of the International Codes (I-Codes) into 

their current floodplain development and regulatory processes in 

order to meet the requirements to participate in the NFIP. 

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 

225, Model Manufactured Home Installation 

Standard (2009 Edition) 

Includes updated criteria covering the anchoring of the home and 

protection against seismic events, floods, and wind. Rules apply to 

single- and multi-section units. 

NFPA 703, Standard for Fire-Retardant 

Treated Wood and Fire-Retardant Coatings 

for Building Materials

Provides enforcers, engineers, and architects with the industry’s 

most advanced criteria for defining and identifying fire retardanttreated wood and fire-retardant coatings for building materials.

NFPA 914, Code for Fire Protection of 

Historic Structures

Intended to improve or upgrade the fire protection features in a wide 

range of historic buildings and address ongoing operations as well 

as renovation and restoration projects. 

NFPA 1141, Standard for Fire Protection 

Infrastructure for Land Development in 

Suburban and Rural Areas

Provides recommendations for planning and installing fire protection 

infrastructure for new developments in a community.

NFPA 1144, Standard for Reducing 

Structure Ignition Hazards for Land 

Development in Suburban and Rural Areas

Covers minimum design, construction, and landscaping elements 

for structures in the wildland/urban interface. 

NFPA 5000 Code, Building Construction 

and Safety Code (2012 Edition)

Combines regulations controlling design, construction, quality of 

materials, use and occupancy, location, and maintenance of 

buildings and structures, with fire and life-safety requirements found 

in NFPA codes and standards. 

Firewise Communities A multi-agency effort designed to reach beyond the fire service by 

involving homeowners, community leaders, planners, developers, 

and others in the effort to protect people, property, and natural 

resources from the risk of wildland fire—before a fire starts. 

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 144
Reference Description

National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) 

Technical Bulletin 3-93, Non-Residential 

Floodproofing – Requirements and 

Certification

Provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning watertight 

construction and the required certification for floodproofed nonresidential buildings in Zones A, AE, A1–A30, AR, AO, and AH, 

whose lowest floors are below the Base Flood Elevation.

U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of 

Economic Analysis

Produces economic account statistics that enable government and 

business decision-makers, researchers, and the American public to 

follow and understand the performance of the Nation’s economy. 

U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics An independent national statistical agency that collects, processes, 

analyzes, and disseminates essential statistical data to the 

American public, the U.S. Congress, other Federal agencies, State 

and local governments, business, and labor. 

Part IX. Appendix D: Referenced Regulations, Statutes, Directives, and Guidance 145
E. EHP Checklist

“Yes” indicates that the environmental regulation or statute may apply to your project. Please 

provide relevant information and/or documentation to support your answers. This list is not allinclusive. 

Environmental Regulation or Statute Yes No

1.A Would the proposed project affect, or is the proposed project in close proximity to, 

any buildings or structures 50 years or more in age?

1.B Will the proposed project involve disturbance of ground?

2.A Are federally listed or endangered species, or their critical habitat, present in or near 

the project area and, if so, which species are present?

2.B Will the proposed project remove or affect vegetation?

2.C Is the proposed project in or near (within 200 feet), or likely to affect, any type of 

waterbody or body of water?

3.A Will the proposed project involve dredging or disposal of dredged material, 

excavation, the addition of fill material, or result in any modification to water bodies or 

wetlands designated as “waters of the United States” as identified by the U.S. Army 

Corps of Engineers or on the National Wetland Inventory?

4.A Does a Flood Insurance Rate Map, Flood Hazard Boundary Map, hydrological study, 

or some other source indicate that the project is located in, or will affect, a 100-year 

floodplain, a 500-year floodplain (if a critical action), an identified regulatory floodway, 

or an area prone to flooding?

4.B Is the proposed project located in, or will it affect, a wetland as listed in the National 

Wetland Inventory?

4.C Will the proposed project alter a watercourse, water flow patterns, or a drainage way, 

regardless of its floodplain designation?

4.D Is the proposed project located in, or will it affect, a floodplain or wetland? If yes, the 

8-step process summarized in HMA Job Aids must be completed.

5.A Is the proposed project located in the State’s designated coastal zone?

5.B Is the proposed project located in a Coastal Barrier Resources System Unit or 

Otherwise Protected Area?

6.A Will the proposed project convert more than 5 acres of “prime or unique” farmland 

outside city limits to a non-agricultural use?

Part IX. Appendix E: EHP Checklist 146

National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA)

Endangered Species Act (ESA) 

Clean Water Act (CWA) and Rivers and Harbors Act

Executive Order 11988 (Protection of Floodplains) and Executive Order 11990 (Protection of Wetlands)

Coastal Zone Management Act (CZMA) and Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA)

Farmland Protection Policy Act (FPPA) 
Environmental Regulation or Statute Yes No

Resource Conservation Recovery Act (RCRA) and Comprehensive Environmental Response, 

Compensation, and Liability Act 

7.A Is there reason to suspect there are contaminants from a current or past use on the 

property associated with the proposed project?

7.B Are there are any studies, investigations, or enforcement actions related to the

property associated with the proposed project?

7.C Will any project construction or operation activities involve the use of hazardous or 

toxic materials?

7.D Are any of the current or past land uses of the property associated with the proposed 

project or are any of the adjacent properties associated with hazardous or toxic 

materials?

Executive Order 12898 (Environmental Justice for Low Income and Minority Populations)

8.A Are there any low-income or minority populations in the project’s area of effect or 

adjacent to the project area?

Other Environmental/Historic Preservation Laws (including applicable State laws) or Issues

9.A Are other environmental/historic preservation requirements associated with this 

project?

9.B Are any controversial issues associated with this project?

9.C Have any public meetings been conducted, public notices been circulated, or public 

comments been solicited on the proposed project?

Part IX. Appendix E: EHP Checklist 147
F. Minimum Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications 

Subapplications submitted to FEMA that do not contain at least the basic components listed 

below may be immediately denied because there is no method to determine eligibility without 

these data. Additional information may be requested during FEMA review. This information is 

required for all submittals, including potential substitutions, but further details may be requested 

to complete the subapplication. 

Subapplication Component Yes No Comment

Are the Applicant and subapplicant eligible? 

Does the project conform to the State and Local Mitigation Plan 

under 44 CFR Part 201?

Does the project conform to the Tribal Mitigation Plan under 44 

CFR Section 201.7?

Does the project address a problem that has been repetitive or a 

problem that poses a significant risk to public health and safety if 

left unsolved?

Does the project consider long-term changes to the areas and 

entities it protects? 

Does the project have manageable future maintenance and 

modifications requirements?

Does the project contribute to the extent practicable to a long 

term solution to the problem it is intended to address? 

Does the project include site location, maps, and GPS 

coordinates?

Does the project solve a problem independently or constitute a 

functional portion of a solution and is there assurance that the 

project as a whole will be completed? (Projects that merely 

identify or analyze hazards or problems are not eligible.)

Does the project include a detailed budget?

Does the project identify information on cost-share and match 

sources? 

Does the project include a work schedule for 3 years or less that 

conforms to period of performance requirements?

Part IX. Appendix F: Minimum Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications 148

Applicant and Subapplicant

Plan Requirement

Scope of Work

Cost Review

Schedule
Subapplication Component Yes No Comment

Cost-Effectiveness 

Does the project include a benefit-cost analysis, or alternate 

cost-effectiveness documentation, such as Substantial Damage 

verification, and located in a riverine floodplain; or a narrative 

supporting cost-effectiveness and request for consideration 

under 5 percent HMGP discretionary funding?

Is the project cost effective and does it substantially reduce the 

risk of future damage, hardship, loss, or suffering? 

Does the project cost more than the anticipated value of the 

reduction in both direct damages and subsequent negative 

impacts to the area if future disasters were to occur? 

Environmental and Historical Preservation 

Project includes information to demonstrate conformance with 

44 CFR Part 9 and Part 10 (or FEMA Directive Number: FD 108-

1, Environmental and Historic Preservation Planning, 

Responsibilities and Program Requirements) 

Project includes information and documentation required by the 

EHP Checklist, including all available information relating to 

known historic, archaeological, or environmentally sensitive 

areas (e.g., Coastal Barrier Resources System Units or 

Otherwise Protected Areas)

Project includes EHP information for each property identified in 

the subapplication, including the construction date for each 

property

Project demonstrates and documents consideration of 

alternatives that avoid or minimize harm to the environment or 

historic resources

Project includes documentation of all coordination, 

correspondence, consultation, or previous EHP reviews with 

appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies 

Project includes all known EHP costs

Acquisition / Demolition / Relocation Information

Does the project confirm compliance with timelines and all other 

criteria set forth in 44 CFR Part 80 requirements?

Does the project include Voluntary Interest documentation for 

each property?

For relocated projects, will the structure be relocated outside of 

the Special Flood Hazard Area?

Elevation Information

Does the project identify the Base Flood Elevation or Advisory 

Base Flood Elevation?

Does the project include finished floor elevation (Elevation 

Certificate is preferred)?

Does the project include proposed elevation height of the 

structure? 

Part IX. Appendix F: Minimum Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications 149
Subapplication Component Yes No Comment

Is the project consistent with the design and implementation of 

ASCE 24-14? 

Safe Room Information

Does the project include the population size to be protected? 

Is the project consistent with the design and implementation 

criteria of FEMA P-320 or FEMA P-361?

Wind Retrofit Information

Does the project include the proposed level of protection as per 

FEMA P-804? 

Is the project consistent with the design and implementation 

criteria of FEMA P-804?

Drainage Information

Does the project include initial technical information to support 

size, costs, and local permitting requirements?

Part IX. Appendix F: Minimum Criteria Checklist for Project Subapplications 150
G. Minimum Criteria Checklist for Planning Subapplications 

Subapplications submitted to FEMA that do not contain at least the basic components listed 

below may be immediately denied because there is no method to determine eligibility without 

these data. Additional information may be requested during FEMA review prior to award if 

selected. 

Subapplication Component Yes No Comment

Is the proposed mitigation planning activity, as described in the 

SOW, eligible for the program? 

Is the proposed planning activity described, including whether it 

will result in a new or updated hazard mitigation plan or enhance 

an existing mitigation plan in accordance with the FEMA 

Mitigation Planning regulation at 44 CFR Part 201 and HMA

Guidance?

Are participating jurisdiction(s) and private nonprofits, if 

applicable, identified and described? 

Does the narrative describe procedures to engage stakeholders 

and participating jurisdictions?

Does the SOW discuss approaches, outcomes, and level of 

effort, including key milestones and schedule, and the 

relationship of each activity to the cost estimate?

Subapplication Number and Title

Scope of Work (SOW)

Does the SOW describe the process that each jurisdiction will 

complete to review each section of the previous plan and 

address gaps, as needed; new information (including hazard, 

land use, and development trends); how the previous plan was 

implemented; and what process will be used? 

Mitigation Plan Updates 

Does the application include a work schedule for 3 years or 

less that conforms to POP requirements and allows sufficient 

time for State or tribal and FEMA reviews; preparation of 

required revisions, if needed; formal adoption by the 

jurisdiction(s); and FEMA approval? 

Does the application include a detailed cost estimate that 

supports the SOW and is reasonable for the jurisdiction(s) 

participating?

Lump-sum cost estimates are not eligible and will be NOT be 

accepted.

Cost Review

Schedule

Does the application or subapplication identify information on the 

required non-Federal cost share and contribution sources?

Part IX. Appendix G: Minimum Criteria Checklist for Planning Subapplications 151