Shallow flooding zone with sheet flow, 1-3 feet deep
Zone AO designates areas with a 1% annual chance of shallow flooding in the form of sheet flow on sloping terrain. Unlike ponding (Zone AH), water in AO zones moves across the surface.
Flood depths are typically 1-3 feet. Instead of BFEs, FEMA specifies flood depths for Zone AO areas.
Flood insurance is required. Zone AO is a Special Flood Hazard Area.
No BFE, but FEMA specifies flood depths (usually 1-3 feet) for building purposes.
Enter your address to see if your property is in Zone AO