On behalf of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), I am pleased to issue this Fourth Edition (Version 4) of the Public Assistance Program and Policy Guide (PAPPG). FEMA has archived previous editions at www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/111781. FEMA applies this Version 4 to incidents declared on or after June 1, 2020. This version supersedes Version 3.1.
As part of this version of the PAPPG, FEMA has incorporated the Public Assistance Alternative Procedures for Permanent Work Pilot Policy (FP 104-009-7). This establishes Alternative Procedures as the first option considered for all large permanent work projects in order to ensure the ability of Applicants to drive their own recovery. It standardizes a single process for the development and consideration of fixed cost estimates for all permanent work projects. Applicants will be able to agree to a fixed cost estimate or choose to pursue funding under standard, actual cost procedures. This approach maximizes Applicant awareness of the opportunities and benefits provided by the Alternative Procedures, which include, but are not limited to:

• Flexibility in meeting post-disaster recovery needs, as opposed to being limited to rebuilding back to what existed prior to the disaster;
• Ability to share funds across all Alternative Procedures Permanent Work Projects;
• Ability to retain and use excess funds to reduce risk and improve future disaster operations (subject to timely closeout); and
• Eligibility for cost-effective hazard mitigation on replacement projects.