Enter any Utah address to see its FEMA flood zone designation
Utah's flood risk is predominantly characterized by flash flooding, which accounts for the vast majority of flood events and associated fatalities over the last 30 years. While less frequent, general flooding also contributes to the state's flood hazard.
Recent federal disaster declarations highlight the impact of flooding in Utah, with multiple declarations for flooding occurring in May 2023. These events underscore the ongoing risk across the state.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) claims data indicates that flood insurance is most frequently purchased in areas designated as UNKNOWN or X zones, with average claim amounts around $6,300. However, the highest average claim payouts, exceeding $11,000, have occurred in A zones. Notably, a significant number of claims and substantial payouts have been recorded in zones where flood risk is categorized as UNKNOWN, suggesting that flood insurance may be beneficial for residents in areas not yet mapped or clearly defined by FEMA.
Summary generated from FEMA disaster declarations, NOAA storm events, and NFIP claim data. Updated quarterly.
Source: OpenFEMA NFIP Claims, Policies, and Disaster Declarations data.
Utah has received 259 federal disaster declarations, including 107 flood and coastal storm declarations.
FEMA designates flood zones across Utah using the following classifications:
AE High Risk — 1% annual chance of flooding (100-year floodplain). Insurance required for federal mortgages.
VE Very High Risk — Coastal flooding with wave action. Strictest building codes.
X (Shaded) Moderate Risk — 500-year floodplain. Insurance recommended.
X Low Risk — Outside major floodplains. Insurance optional but advisable — from 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from outside high-risk zones.
Properties in Utah FEMA-designated Special Flood Hazard Areas (zones A and V) with federally backed mortgages are required to carry flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
The average NFIP premium in Utah is approximately $689 per year. Rates vary significantly based on flood zone, building elevation, and coverage amount.
Even outside high-risk zones, flood insurance is recommended. From 2014 to 2024, nearly one-third of NFIP claims came from properties outside the high-risk Special Flood Hazard Area. Utah residents can purchase flood insurance through the NFIP or private insurers.
Visit FloodSmart.gov to find an agent and get a quote.
See the most flood-prone counties in Utah →
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