IllinoisFloodMaps.org

Updated September 2025

Since 2010, through FEMA's Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) Program, the Illinois State Water Survey (ISWS) has served as the LOMR/CLOMR Review Partner for the State of Illinois. Over that time, ISWS has reviewed and processed hundreds of LOMRs and CLOMRs which help local communities revise their floodplain maps and ensure that proposed development will be constructed in compliance with the NFIP and ultimately safe from flooding.

What's Changing:
The ISWS LOMR/CLOMR Review Partner Program relies on annual FEMA CTP grant funding. The FY2025 CTP grant opportunity was not released, and as a result ISWS has paused its role as the FEMA LOMR/CLOMR Review Partner for the State of Illinois until additional CTP funding becomes available. Moving forward, FEMA's National LOMR Contractor will be reviewing and processing all new LOMR/CLOMR applications within Illinois.

What's Not Changing:
ISWS still maintains its role as a state CTP through other FEMA funded projects and initiatives to help the state reduce flood losses by updating Flood Insurance Rate Maps, performing new floodplain studies, and providing technical support for local communities. The pause of the ISWS LOMR/CLOMR Review Program is hopefully a temporary hiatus rather than a permanent change.

Questions: contact Christopher Hanstad, Senior Hydraulic Engineer at the Illinois State Water Survey at hanstad@illinois.edu

Overview of Application Requirements for a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR)

This 11–minute video provides a high-level overview of the application requirements for a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR). This video is ideal for engineers who are preparing to make their first LOMR application as well as experienced engineers who want to brush up on the basics.

• Watch Video (hosted on Illinois Media Space)
• Download MP4 (351 MB)

Helpful Tips

• ISWS highly recommends making your LOMR or CLOMR application submittal online through FEMA’s LOMC Portal. When the online application is made, your request is directed immediately to our review staff for processing. The Online LOMC submittal page can be accessed at: https://hazards.fema.gov/femaportal/onlinelomc/signin
• Make sure to use the current version of the MT-2 forms and fill them out completely. The MT-2 application forms and instructions are available at: https://www.fema.gov/flood-maps/change-your-flood-zone/paper-application-forms/mt-2
• Payment forms and checks should be included with the application submittal. Checks should be payable to National Flood Insurance Program. Make sure the correct fee is submitted (see current fee schedule).
• For CLOMR requests, make sure to include proof of compliance with the Endangered Species Act. Please use the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's technical assistance website for step-by-step instructions.
• Make sure to include IDNR-OWR approval when applicable (see IDNR approval flowchart).