Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program

How it works

St. Mary’s County Department of Emergency Services says it can apply on behalf of an interested homeowner as a subrecipient of grant funding received from FEMA through the Maryland Department of Emergency Management. The county describes the Flood Mitigation Assistance program as highly competitive, with projects selected based on eligibility, ranking, and cost-effectiveness. Submission does not guarantee funding.

What the money covers

The county page describes this as funding for eligible mitigation measures that reduce flood losses. The page does not list every eligible construction item on the county page itself.

Amounts and matching

• Federal share: 75%
• Non-federal share: 25%
• The homeowner must be willing and able to commit to the 25% share in an escrow account upon approval.

How to apply

1. Email EMA@stmaryscountymd.gov with the required documents and your interest in applying.
2. Emergency Management staff will contact you about the next application cycle and any additional requirements.
3. Staff will help obtain project proposals and other required documentation and will submit the application on your behalf.

Timing and deadlines

• The grant is offered on an annual basis.
• Due dates are communicated each year based on fund availability from FEMA.
• The county says the application process may take several months.
• After submission, approval or denial may take about a year.
• If approved, funding release may take an additional year before work can begin.