Contrary to common belief, most U.S. cities are effectively managing floodplain development, preventing costly disasters by utilizing established ordinances, plans, and programs rather than relying on novel strategies. This is the central finding of a new study titled “How local governments avoid floodplain development through consistent implementation of routine municipal ordinances, plans, and programs,” published in Oxford Open Climate Change.
Despite significant investments in flood mitigation, the cost of disasters in the United States has continued to rise, with floods being the most frequent and expensive disaster. The main driver behind these increasing costs is not just climate change, but also the growing concentration of people and infrastructure in flood-prone areas.
A notable 2018 analysis by Climate Central and Zillow revealed that in eight U.S. coastal states, flood-prone land is being developed at a faster rate than safer areas. However, this latest research suggests that many local governments are successfully curbing such risky development.
Avoiding Floodplain Development Through Practical Measures
The study reviewed floodplain management and development patterns in New Jersey from 2001 to 2019, given that the state represents an extreme case of risk. Five New Jersey cities ranked among the top ten for development in coastal risk zones, with Ocean City, NJ, leading the nation in building flood-exposed houses.
Researchers examined the relationships between wealth, proximity to the coast, and floodplain development, looking at 128 municipalities across four counties. In-depth case studies were conducted in Lumberton, Aberdeen, Weehawken, and Woodbridge. The findings were surprising: most New Jersey cities are limiting floodplain development more effectively than prior research suggested.
Between 2001 and 2019, 422 municipalities (85%) restricted housing development in floodplains more than expected, while 335 municipalities (68%) limited the increase of impervious surfaces, like pavement, in these hazardous areas. Remarkably, 25% of New Jersey towns placed none of their new housing in floodplains during this period.
According to lead author A.R. Siders, the study revealed that most towns are not using complex or innovative approaches but are instead consistently applying conventional local ordinances with existing municipal resources. The keys to success appear to be a commitment to using basic but effective land use tools and ensuring consistency in their implementation.
Common Sense and Coordination are Key
The study’s interviews with practitioners in New Jersey highlighted that towns are relying on practical, common-sense actions. “They’re not doing anything special,” said one interviewee, emphasizing that collaboration and commitment by local officials rather than complicated plan sare central to success.
Siders further noted that improving floodplain management does not require radical innovations but rather strengthening coordination and the consistent application of proven tools.
The study concludes that limited floodplain development is the norm, not the exception, in New Jersey, suggesting that local governments across the U.S. are already taking meaningful action. However, the challenge now lies in helping these municipalities do more, and motivating the small minority of towns still engaged in risky development practices.
The study offers a positive outlook, showing that cities are better equipped to handle flood risks than previously thought, but highlights that there is still work to be done in ensuring that all municipalities prioritize sustainable, flood-resistant development.