Land records · Parcel maps · October 7, 2026
CBRS Zone: Coastal Barrier Resources System
What a CBRS zone is: coastal barrier land where new construction is generally ineligible for federal flood insurance and most federal spending.
CBRS zone refers to land within the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System, a set of undeveloped coastal barrier areas designated by Congress under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act of 1982 and later laws. Within these areas, most new federal spending and financial assistance is prohibited, including federal flood insurance for buildings constructed or substantially improved after the area’s designation date. Development is not banned, but owners bear the full financial risk. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service maintains the official maps. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Two types of CBRS areas
| Type | Federal flood insurance |
|---|---|
| System units | Not available for new construction or substantial improvements after designation |
| Otherwise protected areas | Available only for structures used for conservation in line with the area’s purpose |
Why CBRS exists
Coastal barriers, such as barrier islands and spits, protect the mainland from storms and provide habitat. Congress decided to stop federal subsidies that encourage development in these risky areas, saving taxpayer money and protecting resources.
What is prohibited
Within system units, federal funds generally cannot be used for new roads, bridges, utilities, or most disaster assistance for new development. Private development may still occur with private financing and insurance.
Finding CBRS boundaries
The Fish and Wildlife Service offers an online CBRS mapper. FEMA flood maps also show CBRS areas with shading. See how to read a FEMA flood map. Insurance agents may request a CBRS determination.
Effect on buyers
Buyers of property in a CBRS area should check the designation date and the building’s construction or improvement date. If the building was built after designation, federal flood insurance through the NFIP may not be available, which can affect mortgage options. Private flood insurance may be the only option.
Relationship to flood zones
CBRS areas often overlap high-risk zones like Zone VE. Florida properties may also be seaward of the coastal construction control line.
Documentation
To prove eligibility for NFIP coverage, owners may need building permits and other documentation showing construction before the designation date. An elevation certificate may also be needed for rating.
Example
A house on a barrier island was built in 1995. The island segment was added to a CBRS unit in 1990. Because the house was built after designation, it is not eligible for NFIP flood insurance, and the buyer must find private coverage.
Map changes
Boundaries can be changed only by Congress, though technical corrections and reviews occur. Check current maps when buying.
Questions to ask
Ask the seller for the original building permit date and any later substantial improvement permits.
Bottom line
A CBRS zone is coastal barrier land where new construction after the designation date is generally ineligible for federal flood insurance and most federal spending. Check the CBRS mapper and construction dates before buying. Private insurance may be required. Explore coastal counties via the Platbookmapper map.
Cbrs zone flood insurance FAQ
What is a CBRS zone?
Coastal barrier land in the Coastal Barrier Resources System.
Can I get flood insurance in a CBRS area?
Not through the NFIP for post-designation construction in system units.
Can I build in a CBRS area?
Yes, but without most federal support.
How do I find CBRS boundaries?
Use the Fish and Wildlife Service CBRS mapper.
What is an otherwise protected area?
A CBRS area where NFIP coverage is limited to conservation uses.