HomeMy WebLinkAboutO-20-02 FEMA Approved FloodPlainORDINANCE NO. 0-20-02
AN ORDINANCE BY THE CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA AMENDING
THE CODE OF ORDINANCES CHAPTER 46 FLOODS TO MAKE
MODIFICATIONS TO BRING THE REGULATIONS INTO CONFORMANCE
WITH THE MOST CURRENT FEMA -APPROVED, FLOODPLAIN
MANAGEMENT ORDINANCE FOR FLORIDA COMMUNITIES THAT IS
COORDINATED WITH THE FLORIDA BUILDING CODE; PROVIDING FOR
APPLICABILITY AND SEVERABILITY; PROVIDING FOR CODIFICATION,
PROVIDING FOR CONFLICTS, PROVIDING FOR SCRIVENERS ERRORS,
AND PROVIDING FOR AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, the Legislature of the State of Florida has, in Chapter 166, Florida Statutes,
conferred upon local governments the authority to adopt regulations designed to promote the
public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, the City of Sebastian participates in the National Flood Insurance Program
and the City of Sebastian desires to continue to meet the requirements of Title 44 Code of
Federal Regulations, Sections 59 and 60, necessary for such participation; and
WHEREAS, the Florida Division of Emergency Management identified corrections
required by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to bring the City of Sebastian's
floodplain management regulations into conformance with the Model Floodplain Management
ordinance approved by FEMA in January 2013; and
WHEREAS, the Sebastian City Council determined that it is in the public interest to
amend the floodplain management regulations to bring the regulations into conformance with
the most current Model Floodplain Management Ordinance approved by FEMA for Florida
communities.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Sebastian
that the Code of Ordinances Chapter 46 Floods is amended as set forth in the following
amendments, as shown in strikethrough and underline format in Section 2.
SECTION 1. RECITALS.
The foregoing whereas clauses are incorporated herein by reference and made a part hereof.
SECTION 2. AMENDMENTS.
The Code of Ordinances Chapter 46 Floods is hereby amended by the following
amendments:
Chapter 46 - FLOODS
ARTICLE I. -ADMINISTRATION
DIVISION 1. - GENERALLY
Sec. 46-1. - Title.
These regulations shall be known as the "Floodplain Management Ordinance" of the City of
Sebastian, hereinafter referred to as "this chapter."
Sec. 46-2. - Scope.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all development that is wholly within or partially
within any flood hazard area, including but not limited to the subdivision of land; filling, grading,
and other site improvements and utility installations; construction, alteration, remodeling,
enlargement, improvement, replacement, repair, relocation or demolition of buildings, structures,
and facilities that are exempt from the Florida Building Code; placement, installation, or
replacement of manufactured homes and manufactured buildings; installation or replacement of
tanks; placement of recreational vehicles; installation of swimming pools; and any other
development.
Sec. 46-3. - Intent
The purposes of this chapter and the flood load and flood resistant construction requirements of
the Florida Building Code are to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public health,
safety, and general welfare and to minimize public and private losses due to flooding through
regulation of development in flood hazard areas to:
(1) Minimize unnecessary disruption of commerce, access and public service during
times of flooding;
(2) Require the use of appropriate construction practices in order to prevent or minimize
future flood damage;
(3) Manage filling, grading, dredging, mining, paving, excavation, drilling operations,
storage of equipment or materials, and other development which may increase flood
damage or erosion potential;
(4) Manage the alteration of flood hazard areas, watercourses, and shorelines to
minimize the impact of development on the natural and beneficial functions of the
floodplain;
(5) Minimize damage to public and private facilities and utilities;
(6) Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of
flood hazard areas;
(7) Minimize the need for future expenditure of public funds for flood control projects and
response to and recovery from flood events; and
(8) Meet the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program for community
participation as set forth in the Title 44 Code of Federal Regulations, Section 59.22.
Sec. 46-4. - Coordination with the Florida Building Code.
This chapter is intended to be administered and enforced in conjunction with the Florida Building
Code. Where cited, ASCE 24 refers to the edition of the standard that is referenced by the
Florida Building Code.
Sec. 46-5. - Warning.
The degree of flood protection required by this chapter and the Florida Building Code, as
amended by this community, is considered the minimum reasonable for regulatory purposes
and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger floods can and will occur.
Flood heights may be increased by man-made or natural causes. This chapter does not imply
that land outside of mapped special flood hazard areas, or that uses permitted within such flood
hazard areas, will be free from flooding or flood damage. The flood hazard areas and base flood
elevations contained in the Flood Insurance Study and shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps
and the requirements of Title 44 Code of Federal Regulations, Sections 59 and 60 may be
revised by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, requiring this community to revise
these regulations to remain eligible for participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
No guaranty of vested use, existing use, or future use is implied or expressed by compliance
with this chapter.
Sec. 46-6. - Disclaimer of liability.
This chapter shall not create liability on the part of the City Council of the City of Sebastian or by
any officer or employee thereof for any flood damage that results from reliance on this chapter
or any administrative decision lawfully made thereunder.
DIVISION 2. - APPLICABILITY
Sec. 46-7. - General.
Where there is a conflict between a general requirement and a specific requirement, the specific
requirement shall be applicable.
Sec. 46-8. - Areas to which this chapter applies.
This chapter shall apply to all flood hazard areas within the City of Sebastian, as established in
section 46-9.
Sec. 46-9. - Basis for establishing flood hazard areas.
The Flood Insurance Study for Indian River County, Florida and Incorporated Areas dated
December 4, 2012, and all subsequent amendments and revisions, and the accompanying
Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), and all subsequent amendments and revisions to such
maps, are adopted by reference as a part of this chapter and shall serve as the minimum basis
for establishing flood hazard areas. Studies and maps that establish flood hazard areas are on
file at the Office of Community Development, City Hall, City of Sebastian, 1225 Main Street,
Sebastian. Florida.
(1) Submission of additional data to establish flood hazard areas. To establish flood
hazard areas and base flood elevations, pursuant to Article I, Division 5 of this chapter
the floodplain administrator may require submission of additional data. Where field
surveyed topography prepared by a Florida licensed professional surveyor or digital
topography accepted by the community indicates that ground elevations:
a. Are below the closest applicable base flood elevation, even in areas not delineated
as a special flood hazard area on a FIRM, the area shall be considered as flood
hazard area and subject to the requirements of this chapter and, as applicable, the
requirements of the Florida Building Code.
b. Are above the closest applicable base flood elevation, the area shall be regulated
as special flood hazard area unless the applicant obtains a Letter of Map Change
that removes the area from the special flood hazard area.
Sec. 46-10. - Other laws.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be deemed to nullify any provisions of local, state or
federal law.
Sec. 46-11. - Abrogation and greater restrictions.
This chapter supersedes any ordinance in effect for management of development in flood
hazard areas. However, it is not intended to repeal or abrogate any existing ordinances
including but not limited to land development regulations, zoning ordinances, stormwater
management regulations, or the Florida Building Code. In the event of a conflict between this
chapter and any other ordinance, the more restrictive shall govern. This chapter shall not impair
any deed restriction, covenant or easement, but any land that is subject to such interests shall
also be governed by this chapter.
Sec. 46-12. - Interpretation.
In the interpretation and application of this chapter, all provisions shall be:
(1) Considered as minimum requirements;
(2) Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and
(3) Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under state statutes.
DIVISION 3. - DUTIES AND POWERS OF THE FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR
Sec. 46-13. - Designation.
The building official is designated as the floodplain administrator. The floodplain administrator
may delegate performance of certain duties to other employees.
Sec. 46-14. - General.
The floodplain administrator is authorized and directed to administer and enforce the provisions
of this chapter. The floodplain administrator shall have the authority to render interpretations of
this chapter consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter and may establish policies
and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies,
and procedures shall not have the effect of waiving requirements specifically provided in this
chapter without the granting of a variance pursuant to Article I, Division 7 of this chapter.
Sec. 46-15. - Applications and permits.
The floodplain administrator, in coordination with other pertinent offices of the community, shall:
(1) Review applications and plans to determine whether proposed new development will
be located in flood hazard areas;
(2) Review applications for modification of any existing development in flood hazard
areas for compliance with the requirements of this chapter;
(3) Interpret flood hazard area boundaries where such interpretation is necessary to
determine the exact location of boundaries; a person contesting the determination shall
have the opportunity to appeal the interpretation;
(4) Provide available flood elevation and flood hazard information;
(5) Determine whether additional flood hazard data shall be obtained from other sources
or shall be developed by an applicant;
(6) Review applications to determine whether proposed development will be reasonably
safe from flooding;
(7) Issue floodplain development permits or approvals for development other than
buildings and structures that are subject to the Florida Building Code, including
buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code, when
compliance with this chapter is demonstrated, or disapprove the same in the event of
noncompliance; and
(8) Coordinate with and provide comments to the building official to assure that
applications, plan reviews, and inspections for buildings and structures in flood hazard
areas comply with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
Sec. 46-16. — Substantial improvement and substantial damage determinations.
For applications for building permits to improve buildings and structures, including alterations,
movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, change of occupancy, additions, rehabilitations,
renovations, substantial improvements, repairs of substantial damage, and any other
improvement of or work on such buildings and structures, the floodplain administrator, in
coordination with the building official, shall:
(1) Estimate the market value, or require the applicant to obtain an appraisal of the
market value prepared by a qualified independent appraiser, of the building or structure
before the start of construction of the proposed work; in the case of repair, the market
value of the building or structure shall be the market value before the damage occurred
and before any repairs are made;
(2) Compare the cost to perform the improvement, the cost to repair a damaged building
to its pre -damaged condition, or the combined costs of improvements and repairs, if
applicable, to the market value of the building or structure;
(3) Determine and document whether the proposed work constitutes substantial
improvement or repair of substantial damage; and
(4) Notify the applicant if it is determined that the work constitutes substantial
improvement or repair of substantial damage and that compliance with the flood
resistant construction requirements of the Florida Building Code and this chapter is
required.
Sec. 46-17. - Modifications of the strict application of the requirements of the Florida Building
Code.
The floodplain administrator shall review requests submitted to the building official that seek
approval to modify the strict application of the flood load and flood resistant construction
requirements of the Florida Building Code to determine whether such requests require the
granting of a variance pursuant to Article I, Division 7 of this chapter.
Sec. 46-18. - Notices and orders.
The floodplain administrator shall coordinate with appropriate local agencies for the issuance of
all necessary notices or orders to ensure compliance with this chapter.
Sec. 46-19. - Inspections.
The floodplain administrator shall make the required inspections as specified in Article I,
Division 6 of this chapter for development that is not subject to the Florida Building Code,
including buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code. The
floodplain administrator shall inspect flood hazard areas to determine if development is
undertaken without issuance of a permit.
Sec. 46-20. - Other duties of the floodplain administrator.
The floodplain administrator shall have other duties, including but not limited to:
(1) Establish, in coordination with the building official, procedures for administering and
documenting determinations of substantial improvement and substantial damage made
pursuant to section 46-16 of this chapter;
(2) Require that applicants proposing alteration of a watercourse notify adjacent
communities and the Florida Division of Emergency Management, State Floodplain
Management Office, and submit copies of such notifications to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA);
(3) Require applicants who submit hydrologic and hydraulic engineering analyses to
support permit applications to submit to FEMA the data and information necessary to
maintain the Flood Insurance Rate Maps if the analyses propose to change base flood
elevations, flood hazard area boundaries, or floodway designations; such submissions
shall be made within six months of such data becoming available;
(4) Review required design certifications and documentation of elevations specified by
this chapter and the Florida Building Code to determine that such certifications and
documentations are complete;
(5) Notify the Federal Emergency Management Agency when the corporate boundaries
of the City of Sebastian are modified; and
(6) Advise applicants for new buildings and structures, including substantial
improvements that are located in any unit of the Coastal Barrier Resources System
established by the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (Pub. L. 97-345) and the Coastal
Barrier Improvement Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-591) that federal flood insurance is not
available on such construction; areas subject to this limitation are identified on Flood
Insurance Rate Maps as "Coastal Barrier Resource System Areas" and "Otherwise
Protected Areas."
Sec. 46-21. - Floodplain management records.
Regardless of any limitation on the period required for retention of public records, the floodplain
administrator shall maintain and permanently keep and make available for public inspection all
records that are necessary for the administration of this chapter and the flood resistant
construction requirements of the Florida Building Code, including Flood Insurance Rate Maps;
Letters of Map Change; records of issuance of permits and denial of permits; determinations of
whether proposed work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage;
required design certifications and documentation of elevations specified by the Florida Building
Code and this chapter; notifications to adjacent communities, FEMA, and the state related to
alterations of watercourses; assurances that the flood carrying capacity of altered watercourses
will be maintained; documentation related to appeals and variances, including justification for
issuance or denial; and records of enforcement actions taken pursuant to this chapter and the
flood resistant construction requirements of the Florida Building Code. These records shall be
available for public inspection at the office of Community Development, City Hall, City of
Sebastian, 1225 Main St., Sebastian, Florida.
DIVISION 4. - PERMITS
Sec. 46-22. - Permits required.
Any owner or owner's authorized agent (hereinafter "applicant") who intends to undertake any
development activity within the scope of this chapter, including buildings, structures and facilities
exempt from the Florida Building Code, which is wholly within or partially within any flood hazard
area shall first make application to the floodplain administrator, and the building official if
applicable, and shall obtain the required permit(s) and approval(s). No such permit or approval
shall be issued until compliance with the requirements of this chapter and all other applicable
codes and regulations has been satisfied.
Sec. 46-23. - Floodplain development permits or approvals.
Floodplain development permits or approvals shall be issued pursuant to this chapter for any
development activities not subject to the requirements of the Florida Building Code, including
buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code. Depending on the
nature and extent of proposed development that includes a building or structure, the floodplain
administrator may determine that a floodplain development permit or approval is required in
addition to a building permit.
(1) Buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code. Pursuant to
the requirements of federal regulation for participation in the National Flood Insurance
Program (44 C.F.R. Sections 59 and 60), floodplain development permits or approvals
shall be required for the following buildings, structures and facilities that are exempt
from the Florida Building Code and any further exemptions provided by law, which are
subject to the requirements of this chapter:
a. Railroads and ancillary facilities associated with the railroad.
b. Nonresidential farm buildings on farms, as provided in F.S. § 604.50.
c. Temporary buildings or sheds used exclusively for construction purposes.
d. Mobile or modular structures used as temporary offices.
e. Those structures or facilities of electric utilities, as defined in F.S. § 366.02, which
are directly involved in the generation, transmission, or distribution of electricity.
f. Chickees constructed by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida or the
Seminole Tribe of Florida. As used in this paragraph, the term "chickee" means an
open -sided wooden but that has a thatched roof of palm or palmetto or other
traditional materials, and that does not incorporate any electrical, plumbing, or
other non -wood features.
Family mausoleums not exceeding 250 square feet in area which are
prefabricated and assembled on site or preassembled and delivered on site and
have walls, roofs, and a floor constructed of granite, marble, or reinforced
concrete.
Temporary housing provided by the Department of Corrections to any prisoner in
the state correctional system.
Structures identified in F.S. § 553.73(10)(k), are not exempt from the Florida
Building Code if such structures are located in flood hazard areas established on
Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
Sec. 46-24. - Application for a permit or approval.
To obtain a floodplain development permit or approval the applicant shall first file an application
in writing on a form furnished by the community. The information provided shall:
(1) Identify and describe the development to be covered by the permit or approval.
(2) Describe the land on which the proposed development is to be conducted by legal
description, street address or similar description that will readily identify and definitively
locate the site.
(3) Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed development is intended.
(4) Be accompanied by a site plan or construction documents as specified in Article I,
Division 5 of this chapter.
(5) State the valuation of the proposed work.
(6) Be signed by the applicant or the applicant's authorized agent.
(7) Give such other data and information as required by the floodplain administrator.
Sec. 46-25. - Validity of permit or approval.
The issuance of a floodplain development permit or approval pursuant to this chapter shall not
be construed to be a permit for, or approval of, any violation of this chapter, the Florida Building
Codes, or any other ordinance of this community. The issuance of permits based on submitted
applications, construction documents, and information shall not prevent the floodplain
administrator from requiring the correction of errors and omissions.
Sec. 46-26. - Expiration.
A floodplain development permit or approval shall become invalid unless the work authorized by
such permit is commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or if the work authorized is
suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the work commences. Extensions for
periods of not more than 180 days each shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause shall
be demonstrated.
Sec. 46-27. - Suspension or revocation.
The floodplain administrator is authorized to suspend or revoke a floodplain development permit
or approval if the permit was issued in error, on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete
information, or in violation of this chapter or any other ordinance, regulation or requirement of
this community.
Sec. 46-28. - Other permits required.
Floodplain development permits and building permits shall include a condition that all other
applicable state or federal permits be obtained before commencement of the permitted
development, including but not limited to the following:
(1) The St. Johns River Water Management District; F.S. § 373.036.
(2) Florida Department of Health for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems; F.S.
§ 381.0065, and Chapter 64E-6, F.A.C.
(3) Florida Department of Environmental Protection for construction, reconstruction,
changes, or physical activities for shore protection or other activities seaward of the
coastal construction control line; F.S. § 161.041.
(4) Florida Department of Environmental Protection for activities subject to the Joint
Coastal Permit; F.S. § 161.055.
(5) Florida Department of Environmental Protection for activities that affect wetlands and
alter surface water flows, in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers;
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
(6) Federal permits and approvals.
DIVISION 5. - SITE PLANS AND CONSTRUCTION DOCUMENTS
Sec. 46-29. - Information for development in flood hazard areas.
The site plan or construction documents for any development subject to the requirements of this
chapter shall be drawn to scale and shall include, as applicable to the proposed development:
(1) Delineation of flood hazard areas, floodway boundaries and flood zone(s), base flood
elevation(s), and ground elevations if necessary for review of the proposed
development.
(2) Where base flood elevations, or floodway data are not included on the FIRM or in the
Flood Insurance Study, they shall be established in accordance with section 46-30(2)
or (3) of this chapter.
(3) Where the parcel on which the proposed development will take place will have more
than 50 lots or is larger than five acres and the base flood elevations are not included
on the FIRM or in the Flood Insurance Study, such elevations shall be established in
accordance with section 46-30(1) of this chapter.
(4) Location of the proposed activity and proposed structures, and locations of existing
buildings and structures; in coastal high hazard areas, new buildings shall be located
landward of the reach of mean high tide.
(5) Location, extent, amount, and proposed final grades of any filling, grading, or
excavation.
(6) Where the placement of fill is proposed, the amount, type, and source of fill material;
compaction specifications; a description of the intended purpose of the fill areas; and
evidence that the proposed fill areas are the minimum necessary to achieve the
intended purpose.
(7) Delineation of the Coastal Construction Control Line or notation that the site is
seaward of the coastal construction control line, if applicable.
(8) Extent of any proposed alteration of sand dunes or mangrove stands, provided such
alteration is approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
(9) Existing and proposed alignment of any proposed alteration of a watercourse.
The floodplain administrator is authorized to waive the submission of site plans, construction
documents, and other data that are required by this chapter but that are not required to be
prepared by a registered design professional if it is found that the nature of the proposed
development is such that the review of such submissions is not necessary to ascertain
compliance with this chapter.
Sec. 46-30. - Information in flood hazard areas without base flood elevations (approximate Zone
A).
Where flood hazard areas are delineated on the FIRM and base flood elevation data have not
been provided, the floodplain administrator shall:
(1) Require the applicant to include base flood elevation data prepared in accordance
with currently accepted engineering practices.
(2) Obtain, review, and provide to applicants base flood elevation and floodway data
available from a federal or state agency or other source or require the applicant to
obtain and use base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal or state
agency or other source.
(3) Where base flood elevation and floodway data are not available from another source,
where the available data are deemed by the floodplain administrator to not reasonably
reflect flooding conditions, or where the available data are known to be scientifically or
technically incorrect or otherwise inadequate:
a. Require the applicant to include base flood elevation data prepared in accordance
with currently accepted engineering practices; or
b. Specify that the base flood elevation is two feet above the highest adjacent grade
at the location of the development, provided there is no evidence indicating flood
depths have been or may be greater than two feet.
(4) Where the base flood elevation data are to be used to support a Letter of Map Change
from FEMA, advise the applicant that the analyses shall be prepared by a Florida
licensed engineer in a format required by FEMA, and that it shall be the responsibility
of the applicant to satisfy the submittal requirements and pay the processing fees.
Sec. 46-31. - Additional analyses and certifications.
As applicable to the location and nature of the proposed development activity, and in addition to
the requirements of this section, the applicant shall have the following analyses signed and
sealed by a Florida licensed engineer for submission with the site plan and construction
documents:
(1) For development activities proposed to be located in a regulatory floodway, a
floodway encroachment analysis that demonstrates that the encroachment of the
proposed development will not cause any increase in base flood elevations; where the
applicant proposes to undertake development activities that do increase base flood
elevations, the applicant shall submit such analysis to FEMA as specified in section 46-
32 of this chapter and shall submit the Conditional Letter of Map Revision, if issued by
FEMA, with the site plan and construction documents.
(2) For development activities proposed to be located in a riverine flood hazard area for
which base flood elevations are included in the Flood Insurance Study or on the FIRM
and floodways have not been designated, hydrologic and hydraulic analyses that
demonstrates that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined
with all other existing and anticipated flood hazard area encroachments, will not
increase the base flood elevation more than one foot at any point within the
community. This requirement does not apply in isolated flood hazard areas not
connected to a riverine flood hazard area or in flood hazard areas identified as Zone
AO or Zone AH.
(3) For alteration of a watercourse, an engineering analysis prepared in accordance with
standard engineering practices which demonstrates that the flood -carrying capacity of
the altered or relocated portion of the watercourse will not be decreased, and
certification that the altered watercourse shall be maintained in a manner which
preserves the channel's flood -carrying capacity; the applicant shall submit the analysis
to FEMA as specified in section 46-32 of this chapter.
(4) For activities that propose to alter sand dunes or mangrove stands in coastal high
hazard areas (Zone V), an engineering analysis that demonstrates that the proposed
alteration will not increase the potential for flood damage.
Sec. 46-32. - Submission of additional data.
When additional hydrologic, hydraulic or other engineering data, studies, and additional
analyses are submitted to support an application, the applicant has the right to seek a Letter of
Map Change from FEMA to change the base flood elevations, change floodway boundaries, or
change boundaries of flood hazard areas shown on FIRMs, and to submit such data to FEMA
for such purposes. The analyses shall be prepared by a Florida licensed engineer in a format
required by FEMA. Submittal requirements and processing fees shall be the responsibility of the
applicant.
DIVISION 6. - INSPECTIONS
Sec. 46-33. - General.
Development for which a floodplain development permit or approval is required shall be subject
to inspection.
(1) Development other than buildings and structures. The floodplain administrator shall
inspect all development to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter
and the conditions of issued floodplain development permits or approvals.
(2) Buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code. The
floodplain administrator shall inspect buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the
Florida Building Code to determine compliance with the requirements of this chapter
and the conditions of issued floodplain development permits or approvals.
a. Buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code, lowest
floor inspection. Upon placement of the lowest floor, including basement, and prior
to further vertical construction, the owner of a building, structure or facility exempt
from the Florida Building Code, or the owner's authorized agent, shall submit to
the floodplain administrator:
1. If a design flood elevation was used to determine the required elevation of the
lowest floor, the certification of elevation of the lowest floor prepared and
sealed by a Florida licensed professional surveyor; or
2. If the elevation used to determine the required elevation of the lowest floor
was determined in accordance with section 46-30(3)b of this chapter, the
documentation of height of the lowest floor above highest adjacent grade,
prepared by the owner or the owner's authorized agent.
b. Buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the Florida Building Code, final
inspection. As part of the final inspection, the owner or owner's authorized agent
shall submit to the floodplain administrator a final certification of elevation of the
lowest floor or final documentation of the height of the lowest floor above the
highest adjacent grade; such certifications and documentations shall be prepared
as specified in section 46-33(2)a of this chapter.
(3) Manufactured homes. The building official shall inspect manufactured homes that are
installed or replaced in flood hazard areas to determine compliance with the
requirements of this chapter and the conditions of the issued permit. Upon placement
of a manufactured home, certification of the elevation of the lowest floor shall be
submitted to the building official.
DIVISION 7. - VARIANCES AND APPEALS
Sec. 46-34. - General.
The board of adjustment as established by the city council shall hear and decide on requests for
appeals and requests for variances from the strict application of this chapter. Pursuant to F.S. §
553.73(5), the board of adjustment shall hear and decide on requests for appeals and requests
for variances from the strict application of the flood resistant construction requirements of the
Florida Building Code. This section does not apply to Section 3109 of the Florida Building Code,
Building.
Sec. 46-35. - Appeals.
The board of adjustment shall hear and decide appeals when it is alleged there is an error in
any requirement, decision, or determination made by the floodplain administrator in the
administration and enforcement of this chapter. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the
board of adjustment may appeal such decision to the Circuit Court, as provided by Florida
Statutes.
Sec. 46-36. - Limitations on authority to grant variances.
The board of adjustment shall base its decisions on variances on technical justifications
submitted by applicants, the considerations for issuance in section 46-39 of this chapter, the
conditions of issuance set forth in section 46-40 of this chapter, and the comments and
recommendations of the floodplain administrator and the building official. The board of
adjustment has the right to attach such conditions as it deems necessary to further the purposes
and objectives of this chapter.
(1) Restrictions in floodways. A variance shall not be issued for any proposed
development in a floodway if any increase in base flood elevations would result, as
evidenced by the applicable analyses and certifications required in section 46-31 of this
chapter.
Sec. 46-37. - Historic buildings.
A variance is authorized to be issued for the repair, improvement, or rehabilitation of a historic
building that is determined eligible for the exception to the flood resistant construction
requirements of the Florida Building Code, Existing Building, Chapter 12 Historic Buildings,
upon a determination that the proposed repair, improvement, or rehabilitation will not preclude
the building's continued designation as a historic building and the variance is the minimum
necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the building. If the proposed work
precludes the building's continued designation as a historic building, a variance shall not be
granted and the building and any repair, improvement, and rehabilitation shall be subject to the
requirements of the Florida Building Code.
Sec. 46-38. - Functionally dependent uses.
A variance is authorized to be issued for the construction or substantial improvement necessary
for the conduct of a functionally dependent use, as defined in this chapter, provided the variance
meets the requirements of section 46-36(1), is the minimum necessary considering the flood
hazard, and all due consideration has been given to use of methods and materials that minimize
flood damage during occurrence of the base flood.
Sec. 46-39. - Considerations for issuance of variances.
In reviewing requests for variances, the board of adjustment shall consider all technical
evaluations, all relevant factors, all other applicable provisions of the Florida Building Code, this
chapter, and the following:
(1) The danger that materials and debris may be swept onto other lands resulting in
further injury or damage;
(2) The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
(3) The susceptibility of the proposed development, including contents, to flood damage
and the effect of such damage on current and future owners;
(4) The importance of the services provided by the proposed development to the
community;
(5) The availability of alternate locations for the proposed development that are subject to
lower risk of flooding or erosion;
(6) The compatibility of the proposed development with existing and anticipated
development;
(7) The relationship of the proposed development to the comprehensive plan and
floodplain management program for the area;
(8) The safety of access to the property in times of flooding for ordinary and emergency
vehicles;
(9) The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and debris and sediment
transport of the floodwaters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at
the site; and
(10) The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions
including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas,
electrical and water systems, streets and bridges.
Sec. 46-40. - Conditions for issuance of variances.
Variances shall be issued only upon:
(1) Submission by the applicant, of a showing of good and sufficient cause that the
unique characteristics of the size, configuration, or topography of the site limit
compliance with any provision of this chapter or the required elevation standards;
(2) Determination by the board of adjustment that
a. Failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship due to the
physical characteristics of the land that render the lot undevelopable; increased
costs to satisfy the requirements or inconvenience do not constitute hardship;
b. The granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional
threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, nor create nuisances, cause
fraud on or victimization of the public or conflict with existing local laws and
ordinances; and
c. The variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford
relief;
(3) Receipt of a signed statement by the applicant that the variance, if granted, shall be
recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the Court in such a manner that it appears in the
chain of title of the affected parcel of land; and
(4) If the request is for a variance to allow construction of the lowest floor of a new
building, or substantial improvement of a building, below the required elevation, a copy
in the record of a written notice from the floodplain administrator to the applicant for the
variance, specifying the difference between the base flood elevation and the proposed
elevation of the lowest floor, stating that the cost of federal flood insurance will be
commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the reduced floor elevation (up to
amounts as high as $25.00 for $100.00 of insurance coverage), and stating that
construction below the base flood elevation increases risks to life and property.
DIVISION 8. -VIOLATIONS
Sec. 46-41. - Violations.
Any development that is not within the scope of the Florida Building Code but that is regulated
by this chapter that is performed without an issued permit, that is in conflict with an issued
permit, or that does not fully comply with this chapter, shall be deemed a violation of this
chapter. A building or structure without the documentation of elevation of the lowest floor, other
required design certifications, or other evidence of compliance required by this chapter or the
Florida Building Code is presumed to be a violation until such time as that documentation is
provided.
Sec. 46-42. - Authority.
For development that is not within the scope of the Florida Building Code but that is regulated
by this chapter and that is determined to be a violation, the floodplain administrator is authorized
to serve notices of violation or stop work orders to owners of the property involved, to the
owner's agent, or to the person or persons performing the work.
Sec. 46-43. - Unlawful continuance.
Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a notice of violation or a
stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove or remedy a
violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to penalties as provided in section 1-10 (General
penalty; continuing violations) and section 2-194 (Enforcement procedures) of this Code of
Ordinances.
ARTICLE II. - DEFINITIONS
DIVISION 1. - GENERALLY
Sec. 46-44. - Scope.
Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this
chapter, have the meanings shown in this section.
Sec. 46-45. - Terms defined in the Florida Building Code.
Where terms are not defined in this chapter and are defined in the Florida Building Code, such
terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them in that code.
Sec. 46-46. - Terms not defined.
Where terms are not defined in this chapter or the Florida Building Code, such terms shall have
ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context implies.
DIVISION 2. - DEFINITIONS
[Sec. 46-46.5. - Definitions.]
[The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning:]
Alteration of a watercourse. A dam, impoundment, channel relocation, change in channel
alignment, channelization, or change in cross-sectional area of the channel or the channel
capacity, or any other form of modification which may alter, impede, retard or change the
direction and/or velocity of the riverine flow of water during conditions of the base flood.
Appeal. A request for a review of the floodplain administrator's interpretation of any provision of
this chapter.
ASCE 24. A standard titled Flood Resistant Design and Construction that is referenced by the
Florida Building Code. ASCE 24 is developed and published by the American Society of Civil
Engineers, Reston, VA.
Base flood. A flood having a 1 -percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
[Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.] The base flood is commonly referred to as the "100 -
year flood" or the "1 -percent -annual chance flood."
Base flood elevation. The elevation of the base flood, including wave height, relative to the
National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD), North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) or other
datum specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). [Also defined in FBC, B, Section
1612.2.]
Basement. The portion of a building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides.
[Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Coastal construction control line. The line established by the State of Florida pursuant to F.S. §
161.053, and recorded in the official records of the community, which defines that portion of the
beach -dune system subject to severe fluctuations based on a 100 -year storm surge, storm
waves or other predictable weather conditions.
Coastal high hazard area. A special flood hazard area extending from offshore to the inland limit
of a primary frontal dune along an open coast and any other area subject to high velocity wave
action from storms or seismic sources. Coastal high hazard areas are also referred to as "high
hazard areas subject to high velocity wave action" or "V Zones" and are designated on Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) as Zone V1—V30, VE, or V.
Design flood. The flood associated with the greater of the following two areas: [Also defined in
FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
(1) Area with a floodplain subject to a 1 -percent or greater chance of flooding in any year;
or
(2) Area designated as a flood hazard area on the community's flood hazard map, or
otherwise legally designated.
Design flood elevation. The elevation of the "design flood," including wave height, relative to the
datum specified on the community's legally designated flood hazard map. In areas designated
as Zone AO, the design flood elevation shall be the elevation of the highest existing grade of the
building's perimeter plus the depth number (in feet) specified on the flood hazard map. In areas
designated as Zone AO where the depth number is not specified on the map, the depth number
shall be taken as being equal to two feet. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Development. Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not
limited to, buildings or other structures, tanks, temporary structures, temporary or permanent
storage of equipment or materials, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavations, drilling
operations or any other land disturbing activities.
Encroachment. The placement of fill, excavation, buildings, permanent structures or other
development into a flood hazard area which may impede or alter the flow capacity of riverine
flood hazard areas.
Existing building and existing structure. Any buildings and structures for which the "start of
construction" commenced before April 9, 1980. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.1
Existing manufactured home park or subdivision. A manufactured home park or subdivision for
which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to
be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and
either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before April 9, 1980.
Expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision. The preparation of additional
sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are
to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site
grading or the pouring of concrete pads).
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The federal agency that, in addition to
carrying out other functions, administers the National Flood Insurance Program.
Flood or flooding. A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of
normally dry land from: [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
(1) The overnow of inland or tidal waters.
(2) The unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source.
Flood damage -resistant materials. Any construction material capable of withstanding direct and
prolonged contact with floodwaters without sustaining any damage that requires more than
cosmetic repair. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Flood hazard area. The greater of the following two areas: [Also defined in FBC, B, Section
1612.2.]
(1) The area within a floodplain subject to a 1 -percent or greater chance of flooding in any
year.
(2) The area designated as a flood hazard area on the community's flood hazard map, or
otherwise legally designated.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The official map of the community on which the Federal
Emergency Management Agency has delineated both special flood hazard areas and the risk
premium zones applicable to the community. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Flood Insurance Study (FIS). The official report provided by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency that contains the Flood Insurance Rate Map, the Flood Boundary and
Floodway Map (if applicable), the water surface elevations of the base flood, and supporting
technical data. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Floodplain administrator. The office or position designated and charged with the administration
and enforcement of this chapter (may be referred to as the floodplain manager).
Floodplain development permit or approval. An official document or certificate issued by the
community, or other evidence of approval or concurrence, which authorizes performance of
specific development activities that are located in flood hazard areas and that are determined to
be compliant with this chapter.
Floodway. The channel of a river or other riverine watercourse and the adjacent land areas that
must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface elevation more than one foot. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Floodway encroachment analysis. An engineering analysis of the impact that a proposed
encroachment into a floodway is expected to have on the floodway boundaries and base flood
elevations; the evaluation shall be prepared by a qualified Florida licensed engineer using
standard engineering methods and models.
Florida Building Code. The family of codes adopted by the Florida Building Commission,
including: Florida Building Code, Building; Florida Building Code, Residential; Florida Building
Code, Existing Building; Florida Building Code, Mechanical; Florida Building Code, Plumbing;
Florida Building Code, Fuel Gas.
Functionally dependent use. A use which cannot perform its intended purpose unless it is
located or carried out in close proximity to water, including only docking facilities, port facilities
that are necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, and ship building and
ship repair facilities; the term does not include long-term storage or related manufacturing
facilities.
Highest adjacent grade. The highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to construction
next to the proposed walls or foundation of a structure.
Historic structure. Any structure that is determined eligible for the exception to the flood hazard
area requirements of the Florida Building Code, Existing Building, Chapter 12 Historic Buildings.
Letter of Map Change (LOMC). An official determination issued by FEMA that amends or
revises an effective Flood Insurance Rate Map or Flood Insurance Study. Letters of Map
Change include:
(1) Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA): An amendment based on technical data showing
that a property was incorrectly included in a designated special flood hazard area. A
LOMA amends the current effective Flood Insurance Rate Map and establishes that a
specific property, portion of a property, or structure is not located in a special flood
hazard area.
(2) Letter of Map Revision (LOMR): A revision based on technical data that may show
changes to flood zones, flood elevations, special flood hazard area boundaries and
floodway delineations, and other planimetric features.
(3) Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F): A determination that a structure or
parcel of land has been elevated by fill above the base flood elevation and is,
therefore, no longer located within the special flood hazard area. In order to qualify for
this determination, the fill must have been permitted and placed in accordance with the
community's floodplain management regulations.
(4) Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR): A formal review and comment as to
whether a proposed flood protection project or other project complies with the minimum
NFIP requirements for such projects with respect to delineation of special flood hazard
areas. A CLOMR does not revise the effective Flood Insurance Rate Map or Flood
Insurance Study; upon submission and approval of certified as -built documentation, a
Letter of Map Revision may be issued by FEMA to revise the effective FIRM.
Light-duty truck. As defined in 40 C.F.R. 86.082-2, any motor vehicle rated at 8,500 pounds
Gross Vehicular Weight Rating or less which has a vehicular curb weight of 6,000 pounds or
less and which has a basic vehicle frontal area of 45 square feet or less, which is:
(1) Designed primarily for purposes of transportation of property or is a derivation of such
a vehicle, or
(2) Designed primarily for transportation of persons and has a capacity of more than 12
persons; or
(3) Available with special features enabling off-street or off-highway operation and use.
Lowest floor. The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area of a building or structure, including
basement, but excluding any unfinished or flood -resistant enclosure, other than a basement,
usable solely for vehicle parking, building access or limited storage provided that such
enclosure is not built so as to render the structure in violation of the non -elevation requirements
of the Florida Building Code or ASCE 24. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Manufactured home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is eight feet or
more in width and greater than 400 square feet, and which is built on a permanent, integral
chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the
required utilities. The term "manufactured home" does not include a "recreational vehicle" or
"park trailer." [Also defined in 15C-1.0101, F.A.C.]
Manufactured home park or subdivision. A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into
two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
Market value. The price at which a property will change hands between a willing buyer and a
willing seller, neither party being under compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable
knowledge of relevant facts. As used in this chapter, the term refers to the market value of
buildings and structures, excluding the land and other improvements on the parcel. Market
value may be established by a qualified independent appraiser, actual cash value (replacement
cost depreciated for age and quality of construction), or tax assessment value adjusted to
approximate market value by a factor provided by the property appraiser.
New construction. For the purposes of administration of this chapter and the flood resistant
construction requirements of the Florida Building Code, structures for which the "start of
construction" commenced on or after April 9, 1980 and includes any subsequent improvements
to such structures.
New manufactured home park or subdivision. A manufactured home park or subdivision for
which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to
be affixed (including at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and
either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after April 9, 1980.
Park trailer. A transportable unit which has a body width not exceeding 14 feet and which is built
on a single chassis and is designed to provide seasonal or temporary living quarters when
connected to utilities necessary for operation of installed fixtures and appliances. [Defined in
section 320.01, F.S.]
Recreational vehicle. A vehicle, including a park trailer, which is: [Defined in F.S. § 320.01(b).]
(1) Built on a single chassis;
(2) Four hundred square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection;
(3) Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty truck; and
(4) Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living
quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
Sand dunes. Naturally occurring accumulations of sand in ridges or mounds landward of the
beach.
Special flood hazard area. An area in the floodplain subject to a 1 -percent or greater chance of
flooding in any given year. Special flood hazard areas are shown on FIRMs as Zone A, AO,
Al—A30, AE, A99, AH, V1—V30, VE or V. [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Start of construction. The date of issuance of permits for new construction and substantial
improvements, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation,
addition, placement, or other improvement is within 180 days of the date of the issuance. The
actual start of construction means either the first placement of permanent construction of a
building (including a manufactured home) on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the
installation of piles, or the construction of columns. Permanent construction does not include
land preparation (such as clearing, grading, or filling), the installation of streets or walkways,
excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations, the erection of temporary forms or
the installation of accessory buildings such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units
or not part of the main buildings. For a substantial improvement, the actual "start of
construction" means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor or other structural part of a
building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building. [Also
defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Substantial damage. Damage of any origin sustained by a building or structure whereby the cost
of restoring the building or structure to its before -damaged condition would equal or exceed 50
percent of the market value of the building or structure before the damage occurred. [Also
defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.]
Substantial improvement. Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, alteration, addition, or other
improvement of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the
market value of the building or structure before the improvement or repair is started. If the
structure has incurred "substantial damage," any repairs are considered substantial
improvement regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however,
include either: [Also defined in FBC, B, Section 1612.2.1
(1) Any project for improvement of a building required to correct existing health, sanitary,
or safety code violations identified by the building official and that are the minimum
necessary to assure safe living conditions.
(2) Any alteration of a historic structure provided the alteration will not preclude the
structure's continued designation as a historic structure.
Variance. A grant of relief from the requirements of this chapter, or the flood resistant
construction requirements of the Florida Building Code, which permits construction in a manner
that would not otherwise be permitted by this chapter or the Florida Building Code.
Watercourse. A river, creek, stream, channel or other topographic feature in, on, through, or
over which water flows at least periodically.
ARTICLE III. - FLOOD RESISTANT DEVELOPMENT
DIVISION 1. - BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
Sec. 46-47. - Design and construction of buildings, structures and facilities exempt from the
Florida Building Code.
Pursuant to section 46-23(1) of this chapter, buildings, structures, and facilities that are exempt
from the Florida Building Code, including substantial improvement or repair of substantial
damage of such buildings, structures and facilities, shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the flood load and flood resistant construction requirements of ASCE 24.
Structures exempt from the Florida Building Code that are not walled and roofed buildings shall
comply with the requirements of Article III, Division 7 of this chapter.
Sec. 46-48. - Buildings and structures seaward of the coastal construction control line.
If extending, in whole or in part, seaward of the coastal construction control line and also
located, in whole or in part, in a flood hazard area:
(1) Buildings and structures shall be designed and constructed to comply with the more
restrictive applicable requirements of the Florida Building Code, Building, Section 3109
and Section 1612 or Florida Building Code, Residential, Section R322.
(2) Minor structures and non -habitable major structures as defined in § 161.54, F.S., shall
be designed and constructed to comply with the intent and applicable provisions of this
chapter and ASCE 24.
DIVISION 2. - SUBDIVISIONS
Sec. 46-49. - Minimum requirements.
Subdivision proposals, including proposals for manufactured home parks and subdivisions, shall
be reviewed to determine that:
(1) Such proposals are consistent with the need to minimize flood damage and will be reasonably
safe from flooding;
(2) All public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electric, communications, and water
systems are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and
(3) Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards; in Zones AH and A0,
adequate drainage paths shall be provided to guide floodwaters around and away from
proposed structures.
Sec. 46-50. - Subdivision plats.
Where any portion of proposed subdivisions, including manufactured home parks and
subdivisions, lies within a flood hazard area, the following shall be required:
(1) Delineation of flood hazard areas, floodway boundaries and flood zones, and design
flood elevations, as appropriate, shall be shown on preliminary plats;
(2) Where the subdivision has more than 50 lots or is larger than five acres and base
flood elevations are not included on the FIRM, the base flood elevations determined in
accordance with section 46-30(1) of this chapter; and
(3) Compliance with the site improvement and utilities requirements of Article III, Division
3 of this chapter.
DIVISION 3. - SITE IMPROVEMENTS, UTILITIES AND LIMITATIONS
Sec. 46-51. - Minimum requirements.
All proposed new development shall be reviewed to determine that:
(1) Such proposals are consistent with the need to minimize flood damage and will be reasonably
safe from flooding;
(2) All public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electric, communications, and water
systems are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and
(3) Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards; in Zones AH and
AO, adequate drainage paths shall be provided to guide floodwaters around and away
from proposed structures.
Sec. 46-52. - Sanitary sewage facilities.
All new and replacement sanitary sewage facilities, private sewage treatment plants (including
all pumping stations and collector systems), and on-site waste disposal systems shall be
designed in accordance with the standards for onsite sewage treatment and disposal systems in
Chapter 64E-6, F.A.C. and ASCE 24 Chapter 7 to minimize or eliminate infiltration of
floodwaters into the facilities and discharge from the facilities into flood waters, and impairment
of the facilities and systems.
Sec. 46-53. - Water supply facilities.
All new and replacement water supply facilities shall be designed in accordance with the water
well construction standards in Chapter 62-532.500, F.A.C. and ASCE 24 Chapter 7 to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters into the systems.
Sec. 46-54. - Limitations on sites in regulatory floodways.
No development, including but not limited to site improvements, and land disturbing activity
involving fill or regrading, shall be authorized in the regulatory floodway unless the floodway
encroachment analysis required in section 46-31(1) of this chapter demonstrates that the
proposed development or land disturbing activity will not result in any increase in the base flood
elevation.
Sec. 46-55. - Limitations on placement of fill.
Subject to the limitations of this chapter, fill shall be designed to be stable under conditions of
flooding including rapid rise and rapid drawdown of floodwaters, prolonged inundation, and
protection against flood -related erosion and scour. In addition to these requirements, if intended
to support buildings and structures (Zone A only), fill shall comply with the requirements of the
Florida Building Code.
Sec. 46-56. - Limitations on sites in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
In coastal high hazard areas, alteration of sand dunes and mangrove stands shall be permitted
only if such alteration is approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and
only if the engineering analysis required by section 46-31(4) of this chapter demonstrates that
the proposed alteration will not increase the potential for flood damage. Construction or
restoration of dunes under or around elevated buildings and structures shall comply with section
46-76(3) of this chapter.
DIVISION 4. - MANUFACTURED HOMES
Sec. 46-57. - General.
All manufactured homes installed in flood hazard areas shall be installed by an installer that is
licensed pursuant to F.S. § 320.8249 and shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 15C-1,
F.A.C. and the requirements of this chapter. If located seaward of the coastal construction
control line, all manufactured homes shall comply with the more restrictive of the applicable
requirements.
Sec. 46-58. - Foundations.
All new manufactured homes and replacement manufactured homes installed in flood hazard
areas shall be installed on permanent, reinforced foundations that:
(1) In flood hazards areas (Zone A) other than coastal high hazard areas, are designed in
accordance with the foundation requirements of the Florida Building Code, Residential, Section
R322.2 and this chapter.
(2) In coastal high hazard areas (Zone V), are designed in accordance with the foundation
requirements of the Florida Building Code, Residential, Section R322.3 and this chapter.
(3) If subject to section 46-60(2), foundations are permitted to be reinforced piers or other
foundation elements of at least equivalent strength.
Sec. 46-59. - Anchoring.
All new manufactured homes and replacement manufactured homes shall be installed using
methods and practices which minimize flood damage and shall be securely anchored to an
adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse or lateral movement.
Methods of anchoring include, but are not limited to, use of over -the -top or frame ties to ground
anchors. This anchoring requirement is in addition to applicable state and local anchoring
requirements for wind resistance.
Sec. 46-60. - Elevation.
Manufactured homes that are placed, replaced, or substantially improved shall comply with
section 46-60(1) or section 46-60(2) of this chapter, as applicable.
(1) General elevation requirement. Unless subject to the requirements of section 46-60(2)
of this chapter, all manufactured homes that are placed, replaced, or substantially
improved on sites located: (a) outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision; (b)
in a new manufactured home park or subdivision; (c) in an expansion to an existing
manufactured home park or subdivision; or (d) in an existing manufactured home park
or subdivision upon which a manufactured home has incurred "substantial damage" as
the result of a flood, shall be elevated such that the bottom of the frame is at or above
the elevation required, as applicable to the flood hazard area, in the Florida Building
Code, Residential, Section R322.2 (Zone A) or Section R322.3 (Zone V).
(2) Elevation requirement for certain existing manufactured home parks and subdivisions.
Manufactured homes that are not subject to section 46-60(1) of this chapter, including
manufactured homes that are placed, replaced, or substantially improved on sites
located in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision, unless on a site where
substantial damage as result of flooding has occurred, shall be elevated such that
either the:
a. Bottom of the frame of the manufactured home is at or above the elevation
required, as applicable to the flood hazard area, in the Florida Building Code,
Residential, Section R322.2 (Zone A) or Section R322.3 (Zone V); or
b. Bottom of the frame is supported by reinforced piers or other foundation elements
of at least equivalent strength that are not less than 36 inches in height above
grade.
Sec. 46-61. - Enclosures.
Enclosed areas below elevated manufactured homes shall comply with the requirements of the
Florida Building Code, Residential, Section R322 for such enclosed areas, as applicable to the
flood hazard area.
Sec. 46-62. - Utility equipment.
Utility equipment that serves manufactured homes, including electric, heating, ventilation,
plumbing, and air conditioning equipment and other service facilities, shall comply with the
requirements of the Florida Building Code, Residential, Section R322.2 or R322.3, as applicable
to the flood hazard area.
DIVISION 5. - RECREATIONAL VEHICLES AND PARK TRAILERS
Sec. 46-63. - Temporary placement.
Recreational vehicles and park trailers placed temporarily in flood hazard areas shall:
(1) Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; or
(2) Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, which means the recreational vehicle or
park model is on wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick -
disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanent attachments such
as additions, rooms, stairs, decks and porches.
Sec. 46-64. - Permanent placement.
Recreational vehicles and park trailers that do not meet the limitations in section 46-63 of this
chapter for temporary placement shall meet the requirements of Article III, Division 4 of this
chapter for manufactured homes.
DIVISION 6. - TANKS
Sec. 46-65. - Underground tanks.
Underground tanks in flood hazard areas shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or
lateral movement resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads during conditions of the
design flood, including the effects of buoyancy assuming the tank is empty.
Sec. 46-66. - Above -ground tanks, not elevated.
Above -ground tanks that do not meet the elevation requirements of section 46-67 of this chapter
shall:
(1) Be permitted in flood hazard areas (Zone A) other than coastal high hazard areas,
provided the tanks are anchored or otherwise designed and constructed to prevent
flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic
loads during conditions of the design flood, including the effects of buoyancy assuming
the tank is empty and the effects of flood -borne debris.
(2) Not be permitted in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
Sec. 46-67. - Above -ground tanks, elevated.
Above -ground tanks in flood hazard areas shall be elevated to or above the design flood
elevation and attached to a supporting structure that is designed to prevent flotation, collapse or
lateral movement during conditions of the design flood. Tank -supporting structures shall meet
the foundation requirements of the applicable flood hazard area.
Sec. 46-68. - Tank inlets and vents.
Tank inlets, fill openings, outlets and vents shall be:
(1) At or above the design flood elevation or fitted with covers designed to prevent the
inflow of floodwater or outflow of the contents of the tanks during conditions of the
design flood; and
(2) Anchored to prevent lateral movement resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic
loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during conditions of the design flood.
DIVISION 7. - OTHER DEVELOPMENT
Sec. 46-69. - General requirements for other development.
All development, including man-made changes to improved or unimproved real estate for which
specific provisions are not specified in this chapter or the Florida Building Code, shall:
(1) Be located and constructed to minimize flood damage;
(2) Meet the limitations of section 46-54 of this chapter if located in a regulated floodway;
(3) Be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from
hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during conditions of the design
flood;
(4) Be constructed of flood damage -resistant materials; and
(5) Have mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems above the design flood elevation
or meet the requirements of ASCE 24, except that minimum electric service required to
address life safety and electric code requirements is permitted below the design flood
elevation provided it conforms to the provisions of the electrical part of building code for
wet locations.
Sec. 46-70. - Fences in regulated floodways.
Fences in regulated floodways that have the potential to block the passage of floodwaters, such
as stockade fences and wire mesh fences, shall meet the limitations of section 46-54 of this
chapter.
Sec. 46-71. - Retaining walls, sidewalks and driveways in regulated floodways.
Retaining walls and sidewalks and driveways that involve the placement of fill in regulated
floodways shall meet the limitations of section 46-54 of this chapter.
Sec. 46-72. - Roads and watercourse crossings in regulated floodways.
Roads and watercourse crossings, including roads, bridges, culverts, low-water crossings and
similar means for vehicles or pedestrians to travel from one side of a watercourse to the other
side, that encroach into regulated floodways shall meet the limitations of section 46-54 of this
chapter. Alteration of a watercourse that is part of a road or watercourse crossing shall meet the
requirements of section 46-31(3) of this chapter.
Sec. 46-73. - Concrete slabs used as parking pads, enclosure floors, landings, decks,
walkways, patios and similar nonstructural uses in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
In coastal high hazard areas, concrete slabs used as parking pads, enclosure floors, landings,
decks, walkways, patios and similar nonstructural uses are permitted beneath or adjacent to
buildings and structures provided the concrete slabs are designed and constructed to be:
(1) Structurally independent of the foundation system of the building or structure;
(2) Frangible and not reinforced, so as to minimize debris during flooding that is capable
of causing significant damage to any structure; and
(3) Have a maximum slab thickness of not more than four inches.
Sec. 46-74. - Decks and patios in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
In addition to the requirements of the Florida Building Code, in coastal high hazard areas decks
and patios shall be located, designed, and constructed in compliance with the following:
(1) A deck that is structurally attached to a building or structure shall have the bottom of
the lowest horizontal structural member at or above the design flood elevation and any
supporting members that extend below the design flood elevation shall comply with the
foundation requirements that apply to the building or structure, which shall be designed
to accommodate any increased loads resulting from the attached deck.
(2) A deck or patio that is located below the design flood elevation shall be structurally
independent from buildings or structures and their foundation systems, and shall be
designed and constructed either to remain intact and in place during design flood
conditions or to break apart into small pieces to minimize debris during flooding that is
capable of causing structural damage to the building or structure or to adjacent
buildings and structures.
(3) A deck or patio that has a vertical thickness of more than 12 inches or that is
constructed with more than the minimum amount of fill necessary for site drainage shall
not be approved unless an analysis prepared by a qualified registered design
professional demonstrates no harmful diversion of floodwaters or wave runup and
wave reflection that would increase damage to the building or structure or to adjacent
buildings and structures.
(4) A deck or patio that has a vertical thickness of 12 inches or less and that is at natural
grade or on nonstructural fill material that is similar to and compatible with local soils
and is the minimum amount necessary for site drainage may be approved without
requiring analysis of the impact on diversion of floodwaters or wave runup and wave
reflection.
Sec. 46-75. - Other development in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
In coastal high hazard areas, development activities other than buildings and structures shall be
permitted only if also authorized by the appropriate federal state or local authority; if located
outside the footprint of, and not structurally attached to, buildings and structures; and if analyses
prepared by qualified registered design professionals demonstrate no harmful diversion of
floodwaters or wave runup and wave reflection that would increase damage to adjacent
buildings and structures. Such other development activities include but are not limited to:
(1) Bulkheads, seawalls, retaining walls, revetments, and similar erosion control
structures;
(2) Solid fences and privacy walls, and fences prone to trapping debris, unless designed
and constructed to fail under flood conditions less than the design flood or otherwise
function to avoid obstruction of floodwaters; and
(3) On-site sewage treatment and disposal systems defined in 64E-6.002, F.A.C., as
filled systems or mound systems.
Sec. 46-76. - Nonstructural fill in coastal high hazard areas (Zone V).
In coastal high hazard areas:
(1) Minor grading and the placement of minor quantities of nonstructural fill shall be
permitted for landscaping and for drainage purposes under and around buildings.
(2) Nonstructural fill with finished slopes that are steeper than one unit vertical to five
units horizontal shall be permitted only if an analysis prepared by a qualified registered
design professional demonstrates no harmful diversion of floodwaters or wave runup
and wave reflection that would increase damage to adjacent buildings and structures.
(3) Where authorized by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection or
applicable local approval, sand dune construction and restoration of sand dunes under
or around elevated buildings are permitted without additional engineering analysis or
certification of the diversion of floodwater or wave runup and wave reflection if the
scale and location of the dune work is
consistent with local beach -dune morphology and the vertical clearance is maintained between
the top of the sand dune and the lowest horizontal structural member of the building.
SECTION 3. APPLICABILITY.
For the purposes of jurisdictional applicability, this ordinance shall apply in the City of Sebastian.
This ordinance shall apply to all applications for development, including building permit
applications and subdivision proposals, submitted on or after the effective date of this
ordinance.
SECTION 4. INCLUSION INTO THE CODE OF ORDINANCES.
It is the intent of the Sebastian City Council that the provisions of this ordinance shall become
and be made a part of the City of Sebastian's Code of Ordinances, and that the sections of this
ordinance may be renumbered or relettered and the word "ordinance' may be changed to
"section," "article," "regulation," or such other appropriate word or phrase in order to accomplish
such intentions.
SECTION 5. SEVERABILITY.
In the event a court of competent jurisdiction shall determine that any part of this Ordinance is
invalid, the remainder of the Ordinance shall not be affected and it shall be presumed that the
City Council of the City of Sebastian did not intend to enact such invalid provision. It shall
further be assumed that the City Council would have enacted the remainder of this Ordinance
without said invalid provision, thereby causing said remainder to remain in full force and effect.
SECTION 6. CONFLICT.
All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed.
SECTION 7. SCRIVENER'S ERRORS.
Sections of this ordinance may be renumbered or re -lettered and corrections of typographical
errors which do not affect the intent may be authorized by the City Manager, or the City
Manager's designee, without need of public hearing, by filing a corrected or re -codified copy of
same with the City Clerk.
SECTION 8. EFFECTIVE DATE.
This Ordinance shall take effect upon its adoption by the City Council.
The foregoing Ordinance was moved for adoption by Councilmember Hill. The motion was
seconded by Councilmember Gilliams and, upon being put to a vote, the vote was as
follows:
Mayor Ed Dodd aye
Vice -mayor Charles Mauti aye
Councilmember Jim Hill aye
Councilmember Damien Gilliams aye
Councilmember Pamela Parris aye
The Mayor thereupon declared this Ordinance duly passed and adopted on this 12`h
day of February, 2020.
CITY OF SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA -
By:
�d Dod ayor
ATTEST:
Alecetc MKJt ,a.
J anette Williams, City Clerk
Approved as to form and legality for
Retia the City of Sebastian only:
Jams Stokes, City Attorney