Community Rating System
The Community Rating System is a voluntary incentive program that encourages communities to establish a floodplain management program and recognizes activities that exceed the minimum National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements. This program provides participating communities with discounts on flood insurance premiums.
Pinellas County actively participates in the NFIP on behalf of residents living in unincorporated areas and has been a participant of the CRS since 1993. As a participant in the program, Pinellas County’s Floodplain Management Program is audited on a three-year cycle by the Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO), contractors for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Currently, unincorporated Pinellas County is rated a Class 3, which is in the top 1% nationwide. As of October 1, 2021, eligible residents and businesses within the unincorporated limits of the County will receive a 35% discount on their flood insurance premiums, saving them almost $8,000,000 annually.
As of April 1, 2022, 22 of the 24 municipalities within Pinellas County participate in the CRS program. If your property is not in unincorporated Pinellas County, contact your municipality or visit the NFIP Community Rating System website to find out what class your community is.
Did you know?
By providing flood information services and participating in the CRS, Pinellas County residents will save almost $8 million dollars a year on flood insurance policy premiums.
CRS Classes and Premium Discounts
| CRS Class | Eligible Properties |
|---|---|
| 1 | 45% |
| 2 | 40% |
| 3 | 35% |
| 4 | 30% |
| 5 | 25% |
| 6 | 20% |
| 7 | 15% |
| 8 | 10% |
| 9 | 5% |
| 10 | 0% |
Additional Resources
- View more information on the benefits of the Community Rating System.
- Learn why an Elevation Certificate is important.
- Understand the National Flood Insurance Program Summary of Coverage.
- Review the Flood Insurance Claims Handbook.
- Learn more about Flood Insurance Eligibility.
- Technical Assistance is available for questions about flood insurance.