Flood Insurance Rate Maps

What are Flood Insurance Rate Maps?

A Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) is what FEMA and the NFIP use to show which areas of a community areat higher risk of flooding. These maps show the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) which includes the area that has a 1% annual chance of major flooding and the regulatory floodway, the area consisting of the river channel and its banks. FIRMs also show areas outside of the SFHA including the areas that have a 0.2% annual chance of major flooding. FIRMs are split into panels to make the viewing of specific areas easier. FIRM Panels for Baldwin Borough are listed below under Helpful Documents.

​FIRM Updates

As of September 26, 2014, FEMA adopted updated Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) for Allegheny County. Flood hazard area designations on the updated maps have changed from the previous FIRMs. This means some Baldwin properties are now designated as SFHA that may not have been previously. Property owners were notified in writing if their floodplain designation had been effected by the new flood maps. 

​Why it Matters

Those located directly in the SFHA are required to purchase flood insurance. Structures in this area are held to higher flood proofing and safety standards. To view standards set forth by Baldwin Borough, click here to view the borough's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.

To see if your property is located in a high risk area click here. If having trouble reading the FIRM, please view the 'How to' guide listed under Helpful Documents below.


FIRMs are available for viewing at the Borough Office. Contact the Borough 412-882-9600 to schedule an appointment.