Variations exist on how the agreements are drawn up.
Normally, a General Agreement outlining the policies of the Program is supplemented by a subsidiary agreement on mapping, with further sub-agreements possible on flood forecasting, structural controls and studies. The General Agreement sets out the basic approach for reducing flood damages and the policies agreed upon by the two governments. The basic approach is that where flood damage reduction measures are proposed, all practicable structural and non-structural alternatives are considered, including the option of letting some flood damage occur. Effectiveness, cost, associated benefits and environmental impact are to be accounted for in the selection of alternatives. Preference is to be given to measures that prevent flood vulnerable development.