What matters for project planning
The City of Ann Arbor adopted a Floodplain Management Overlay Zoning District in 2021 that sets standards above the federal minimum, requiring new residential construction to have its lowest floor elevated at least 1 foot above the mapped 0.2%-annual-chance flood elevation. The city has also taken part in FEMA's Community Rating System since 2017, reaching Class 6 in 2018 -- worth checking with the city's floodplain and stormwater programs before foundation, grading, or exterior work begins.
Official sources
Verify the property, not just the city
Citywide context cannot establish a parcel’s flood zone, historic designation, stream buffer, permit requirements, soil conditions, or concealed construction. Confirm those items with the appropriate authority and selected provider before work begins.
Sources reviewed June 20, 2026. External requirements and maps can change.