Residents of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, may soon see lower flood insurance costs thanks to an improved rating from the National Flood Insurance Program’s Community Rating System (CRS). Starting October 1, the parish’s CRS rating will move up from Class 5 to Class 3, making it the first community in Louisiana to reach this level.
The CRS helps communities reduce flood insurance premiums by rewarding them for floodplain management efforts that go beyond federal requirements. Each step up in rating cuts premiums by 5% for properties in high-risk flood zones. With this jump, homeowners and business owners in Jefferson Parish will enjoy bigger savings on flood insurance.
Several efforts helped Jefferson Parish earn this higher rating. The parish improved its building codes for both homes and commercial buildings, adopted extra flood protection measures above FEMA’s minimum, kept open spaces intact, and developed a watershed management plan. They’ve also enhanced hazard mitigation strategies, preserved natural floodplain areas, boosted flood warning and response systems, and regularly informed residents about flood risks, especially for those living behind levees.
Jefferson Parish President Cynthia Lee Sheng praised the achievement, saying it will bring financial relief to residents and businesses while making the community stronger and better prepared for future floods. Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple also highlighted how local leaders across Louisiana are stepping up to build safer, more resilient communities.
This upgrade shows that careful planning and strong local policies can make a real difference—not just in lowering insurance bills but in helping communities better face the challenges of flooding. For Jefferson Parish, the new Class 3 rating marks a significant step toward protecting people and property from the risks of living near water.