This section provides guidance on common project types that are generally eligible for Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA). Each project-specific section in this part generally follows the same outline by first providing an overview of the project type, followed by eligibility criteria and a description of eligible activities, application and submission information, subaward implementation, closeout and additional resources. To be eligible for HMA, all mitigation projects must meet the general eligibility criteria and other requirements described in Part 4.
Natural hazards such as flooding, high wind, extreme temperatures, drought, earthquakes, wildfires and landslides pose major threats to communities across the United States. Reducing these threats to lives, properties and the economy is a top priority for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and many communities. Where appropriate, FEMA encourages evaluating nature-based solutions as a cost-effective and climate-resilient approach to keep natural hazards from becoming more costly disasters. For example, the National Mitigation Investment Strategy has recognized the many benefits nature-based solutions can offer and the diverse partners they can draw to the table. Therefore, as an overarching philosophy to hazard mitigation, this part’s first section provides additional information on nature-based solutions.