Hazard Mitigation Assistance 

FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides funding to state, local, tribal, and territorial governments to support the development of hazard mitigation plans and the implementation of long-term hazard mitigation measures following a presidentially declared disaster. The program's primary objective is to help communities rebuild stronger, safer, and more resilient to future disasters. Homeowners and businesses cannot apply directly for HMGP grants but can be included in applications submitted by eligible governmental entities. HMGP supports a wide variety of risk-reduction projects. These include planning and code enforcement activities, the acquisition and relocation of hazard-prone properties, elevation of structures in flood-prone areas, retrofitting of existing infrastructure to withstand hazards, construction of safe rooms, and slope stabilization efforts. Additionally, projects may utilize green infrastructure methods, aquifer storage, and floodplain restoration. All projects must be cost-effective, feasible, effective in reducing hazard risks, and compliant with Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation laws and regulations. Funding is made available when requested by a governor or tribal executive after a presidential disaster declaration. The amount of funding varies based on the estimated total federal assistance provided for the disaster. The cost-share is generally 75% federal and 25% non-federal, although exceptions apply for insular areas and specific management costs which can be covered up to 100% by FEMA. Pre-award costs related to application development may be eligible for reimbursement if an award is granted. Eligibility is limited to applicants such as U.S. states, territories, the District of Columbia, and federally recognized tribes, each of which must designate an agency to serve as the official applicant. Subapplicants include local governments, special districts, state agencies, and tribal governments. All applicants and subapplicants must have a FEMA-approved mitigation plan in place at the time of the disaster declaration and when funds are obligated. Applicants and subapplicants must use the National Emergency Management Information System (NEMIS) to submit and manage their applications. The process includes a preliminary damage assessment conducted jointly with FEMA and the submission of a major disaster declaration request by the governor within 30 days of the disaster event. This timeline may be extended under specific conditions. Subapplicants are encouraged to contact their State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO) to learn more about application priorities, requirements, and timelines. Further guidance and tools, including the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Program and Policy Guide and the Mitigation Action Portfolio, are available to assist applicants. Questions can be directed to the HMA Helpline at 1-866-222-3580 or by contacting the appropriate SHMO. The latest update for the HMGP guidelines was on April 24, 2025.

Engage SHMO early. Have a current mitigation plan. Plan for cost-share. Use the HMA Policy Guide.