What do flood maps help inform regarding construction or development?

Flood maps play a crucial role in informing various aspects of construction and development within flood-prone areas. The correct answer reflects the importance of flood maps in determining both permitted land use and insurance requirements.

By outlining areas that are at risk of flooding, these maps assist local governments and planners in establishing zoning regulations that dictate where certain types of construction can take place. This is vital for ensuring that developments are designed to mitigate flood risks and comply with local, state, and federal regulations.

Additionally, flood maps are essential for establishing insurance requirements under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Properties located in high-risk flood zones may be required to purchase flood insurance and adhere to specific building standards designed to minimize flood damage.

In contrast, the other options focus only on partial aspects of what flood maps inform. While insurance premiums may be affected by these maps, they serve a much broader purpose than just influencing insurance costs. Flood control measures, while they can be related, are not directly dictated by flood maps but rather informed by the understanding derived from them. Lastly, historical flood events provide context but are not the primary function or purpose of flood maps in guiding current construction and land use decisions.