Surfside Beach Local service guide

Flood zone rules in Surfside Beach, SC

The short answer

Search the FEMA Flood Map Service Center by address before an offer or project. [FEMA map source]
Ask the town Planning, Building and Zoning Department to determine whether the property sits in a Special Flood Hazard Area. [Town source]

Last verified August 13, 2026 · Source: Town of Surfside Beach floodplain information

How to check a Surfside Beach flood zone

FEMA publishes Flood Insurance Rate Maps through its Flood Map Service Center. [FEMA map source]

The town directs property owners to search the FEMA maps by address. [Town source]

The Planning, Building and Zoning Department determines whether a town property sits in a Special Flood Hazard Area. [Town source]

FEMA Flood Map Service Center · Town of Surfside Beach floodplain information

Find an elevation certificate for a Surfside Beach property

The Planning, Building and Zoning Department keeps elevation certificates for town properties. [Town source]

The department provides copies of available elevation certificates. [Town source]

The department also provides copies of Flood Insurance Rate Maps and flood map determinations. [Town source]

Town of Surfside Beach floodplain information

Construction rules for a Surfside Beach flood zone

New residential and nonresidential construction in an AE zone must place the lowest floor at least three feet above base flood elevation. [Town code]

Enclosures below the lowest floor are allowed only in AE zones and may serve only parking, building access, or limited storage. [Town code]

An allowed enclosure below base flood elevation may not exceed 290 square feet. [Town code]

The town prohibits enclosures below the required elevation in VE and Coastal A zones. [Town code]

Surfside Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 14

Flood insurance and the Surfside Beach CRS discount

The Community Rating System gives participating communities flood insurance discounts based on qualifying activities. [Town source]

Surfside Beach is a CRS Class 7 community. [Town source]

The town states that local flood insurance premiums receive a 15 percent discount. [Town source]

Town of Surfside Beach floodplain information

Plan flood zone property work

Hurricane shutters

Compare storm shutter options and request help for a coastal home.

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Deck and dock repair

Plan deck or dock repairs with local permit and flood zone rules in mind.

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