A core network for a cellular system may maintain a dataset of one or more cell sites as being in an emergency zone. The dataset may be populated by local network operators in or near the emergency zone. The core network may consult the dataset prior to enforcing contractual terms for data rate throttling or re-prioritization to determine if the subscriber is in a designated emergency zone. If so, the core network may suspend the enforcement of data throttling or lowering priority so that subscribers in the emergency zone receive full access to the communication network. The dataset may include an expiration time or be on a timer so that the local network operators may be required to re-enroll the one or more cell sites as being in an emergency zone.