Acquiring Existing Structures

Some structures in hazardous areas can’t be feasibly retrofitted or relocated. In some cases, the only way to prevent structures from causing harm may be to remove them entirely. This is especially true when older structures are located where they are likely to be damaged, such as areas with high erosion rates. After the structure has been removed, communities usually dedicate the land to public open space or transfer it to land trusts for protection in perpetuity. There are many possible funding sources for acquisition (see the funding page). For more information on acquisition, see The Federal Emergency Management Agency's Property Acquisition Handbook for Local Communities.