I won’t take FEMA money do I still have to comply with FEMA? If the house is in a flood zone and you cannot demonstrate that it is above design flood elevation, yes you have to provide FEMA paperwork.
If paint and flooring does not need a permit why do I have to declare as a cost on my permit? When repairing to minimum standards, FEMA requires that all cost of placing back to livable space is accounted for, therefore if you replaced drywall you will have to paint it, this FEMA will be looking for a cost-listed under painting.
Do I need signed and sealed plans to submit for a permit? No, as long as you are doing like for like.
What inspection will be done when I replace 2-4 ft of drywall? Typically only final inspections.