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A range of residential or commercial properties may be eligible for one of multiple grant programs managed by NCEM. Factors such as whether the property is developed, within a FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area, and under a certain cost threshold will determine which program is the best fit. NCEM will help towns determine potential eligibility and program fit.

No local match is required for buyout grants under a disaster. Grants cover all allowable buyout costs, including any required environmental or archeology assessments, the appraisal, title search and closing document development, property purchase, demolition and debris removal, capping utilities, and final site work.

The town works with interested property owners and NCEM to complete an application. Once a grant is awarded, the town/county uses grant funds to procure an appraiser and conduct other pre-purchase tasks. After closing and the purchase of the property, the town uses grant funds to procure contractors for demolition and site work. The town tracks expenditures and provides quarterly reports to NCEM. If the town/county opts into the STATE CENTRIC PROGRAM, the state handles all of these tasks and fronted expenses.

Properties acquired with a buyout grant must be maintained as public open green space once all structures have been removed or relocated. No new structures can be built on the property, but towns are free to use the space as a pocket park or to provide public river access. The local government is responsible for ongoing routine maintenance of the property such as keeping the vacant land clear of debris and garbage (see FEMA HMA Guidance: Part 12. B.1. Property Acquisition for Open Space).

Once an application is submitted, it can take anywhere from a few months to over two years for it to be processed. Tasks like the appraisal, property purchase, and demolition occur after the grant is awarded. FEMA Region 4 is responsible for the speed of the approval process.

Towns should reach out to one of the Development Team members below to learn more about the application process or download the PSI Application.