HomeMy WebLinkAboutFlood Damage Prevention Ordinance 9/18/06UlrCliV&AGe. goaK a, 11,3 , q-BO
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2007001660
FOR REGISTRRTION GISTER OF DEEDS
KIMBERLY RE
5 HRRCROVE
2007 JAN
HRRNETT COUNTY NC
26 03 :16:46 PM
BK:2334 PG:230 -261 FEE:$104.00
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE
Adopted by the
Harnett County Board of Commissioners
September 18, 2006
FLOOD DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE
ARTICLE 1. STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDINGS OF FACT,
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES.
Section A. STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION
The Legislature of the State of North Carolina has in Part 6, Article 21 of Chapter 143; Parts 3, and 4 of
Article 18 of Chapter 153A; and Part 121, Article 6 of Chapter 153A of the North Carolina General
Statutes, delegated the responsibility to local governmental units to adopt regulations designed to
promote the public health, safety, and general. welfare of its citizenry.
Therefore, the Board of Commissioners of Harnett County, North Carolina does ordain as follows:
Section B. FINDINGS OF FACT
The flood prone areas within the jurisdiction of Harnett County are subject to periodic inundation which
results in loss of life, property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental
services, extraordinary public expenditures of flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax
base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare.
These flood losses are caused by the cumulative effect of obstructions in the floodplain causing increases
in flood heights and velocities, and by the occupancy in flood prone areas of uses vulnerable to floods or
hazardous.
Section C. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
It is the purpose of this ordinance to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to
minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions within flood prone areas by provisions
designed to:
(1) restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health, safety, and property due
to water or erosion hazards or that result in damaging increases in erosion or in
flood heights or velocities;
(2) require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such
uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
(3) control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural
protective barriers which are involved in the accommodation of floodwaters;
(4) control filling, grading, dredging, and other development that may increase
erosion or flood damage; and,
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(5) prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers that will unnaturally
divert floodwaters or which may increase flood hazards to other lands.
Section D. OBJECTIVES
The objectives of this ordinance are:
(1) to protect human life and health;
(2) to minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
(3) to minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and
generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;
(4) to minimize prolonged business losses and interruptions;
(5) to minimize damage to public facilities and utilities (i.e. water and gas mains,
electric, telephone, cable and sewer lines, and bridges) that are located in flood
prone areas;
(6) to help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and
development of flood prone areas; and,
(7) to ensure that potential home buyers are aware that property is in a Special
Flood Hazard Area.
ARTICLE 2. DEFINITIONS
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this ordinance shall be interpreted so as to
give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this ordinance the most reasonable
application.
"Accessory Structure (Appurtennt Structure)" means a structure, which is located on the same parcel of
property as the principal structure and the use of which is incidental to the use of the principal structure.
Garages, carports and storage sheds are common urban accessory structures. Pole barns, hay sheds and
the like qualify as accessory structures on farms, and may or may not be located on the same parcel as
the farm dwelling or shop building.
"Addition (to an existing building)" means an extension or increase in the floor area or height of a
building or structure.
"Appeal" means a request for a review of the floodplain administrator's interpretation of any provision of
this ordinance.
"Area of Shallow Flooding" means a designated Zone AO on the Harnett County Flood Insurance Rate
Map (FIRM) with base flood depths determined to be from one (1) to three (3) feet. These areas are
located where a clearly defined channel does not exist, where the path of flooding is unpredictable and
indeterminate, and where velocity flow may be evident.
"Area of Special Flood Hazard" see "Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) ".
"Basement" means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides.
"Base Flood" means the flood having a one (1) percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given
year.
"Base Flood Elevation (BFE)" means a determination as published in the Flood Insurance Study of the
water surface elevations of the base flood. When the BFE has not been provided in a "Special Flood
Hazard Area ", it may be obtained from engineering studies available from a Federal or State or other
source using FEMA approved engineering methodologies. This elevation, when combined with the
"Freeboard ", establishes the "Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation ".
"Building" see "Structure"
"Chemical Storage Facility" means a building, portion of the building, or exterior area adjacent to a
building used for the storage of any chemical or chemically reactive products.
"Development" means any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not
limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling
operations, or storage of equipment or materials.
"Disposal" defined as in NCGS 130A- 290(a)(6), the discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling,
leaking, or placing of any solid waste into or on any land or water so that the solid waste or any
constituent part of the solid waste may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged into
any waters, including groundwaters "Elevated Building" means a non- basement building which has its
reference level raised above ground level by foundation walls, shear walls, posts, piers, pilings or
columns.
"Encroachment" means the advance or infringement of uses, fill, excavation, buildings, permanent
structures or development into a floodplain, which may impede or alter the flow capacity of a floodplain.
"Existing Manufactured Home Park or Manufactured Home Subdivision" means 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) was completed
before April 16, 1990.
"Flood" or "Flooding" means a general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of
normally dry land areas from:
(1) the overflow of inland or tidal waters; and /or,
(2) the unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff of surface waters from any
source.
"Flood Boundary and Floodway Map (FBFM)" means an official map of Harnett County, issued by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, on which the Special Flood Hazard Areas and the floodways
are delineated. This official map is a supplement to and shall be used in conjunction with the Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).
"Flood-Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM)" means an official map of Harnett County, issued by the Federal
Emergency Management Agency, where the boundaries of the Special Flood Hazard Areas have been
defined as Zone A.
"Flood Insurance: means the insurance coverage provided under the National Flood Insurance Program.
"Flood Insurance Rate map" means an official map of Harnett County, issued by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, on which both the Special Flood Hazard Areas and the risk premium zones
applicable to the community are delineated.
"Flood Insurance Study (FIS)" means an examination, evaluation, and determination of flood hazard
areas, corresponding water surface elevations (if appropriate), flood hazard risk zones, and other flood
data in a community issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Flood Insurance Study
report includes Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS) and Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps (FBFMs),
if published.
"Flood prone Area" see "Floodplain"
"Floodplain" or "Flood Prone Area" means any land area susceptible to being inundated by water from
any source.
"Floodplain Administrator" is the individual appointed to administer and enforce the floodplain
management regulations.
"Floodplain Development Permit" means any type of permit that is required in conformance with the
provisions of this ordinance, prior to the commencement of any development activity.
"Floodplain Management" means the operation of an overall program of corrective and preventative
measures for reducing flood damage and preserving and enhancing, where possible, natural resources in
the flooplain, including, but not limited to, emergency preparedness plans, flood control works,
floodplain management regulations, and open space plans.
"Floodplain Regulations" means this ordinance and other zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations,
building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances, and other applications of police power
which control development in flood -prone areas. This term describes federal, state or local regulations,
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in any combination thereof, which provide standards for preventing and reducing flood loss and damage.
"Floodproofing" means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes, or
adjustments to structures, which reduce or eliminate risk of flood damage to real estate or improved real
property, water and sanitation facilities, or structures with their contents.
"Floodway" means the channel of a river or other 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 (1) foot.
"Flood Zone" means a geographical area shown on a Flood Hazard Boundary Map or Flood Insurance
Rate Map that reflects the severity or type of flooding in the area.
"Freeboard" means the height added to the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) to account for watershed
development as well as limitations of the engineering methodologies for the determination of flood
elevations. The freeboard plus the Base Flood Elevation establishes the "Regulatory Flood Protection
Elevation ".
"Functionally Dependent Facility" means a facility which cannot be used for its intended purpose unless
it is located in close proximity to water, such as a docking or port facility necessary for the loading and
unloading of cargo or passengers, shipbuilding, or ship repair. The term does not include long -term
storage, manufacture, sales or service facilities.
"Hazardous Waste Management Facility" means a facility for the collection, storage, processing,
treatment, recycling, recovery, or disposal of hazardous waste as defined in NCGS Article 9 of Chapter
130A.
"Highest Adjacent Grade (HAG)" means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface, prior to
construction, immediately next to the proposed walls of the structure.
"Historic Structure" means any structure that is:
(1) listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing
maintained by the US Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by the
Secretary of Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the
National Register;
(2) certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of Interior as
contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a
district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic
district:
(3) individually listed on a local inventory of historic landmarks in communities
with a "Certified Local Government (CLG) Program); or
(4) certified as contributing to the historical significance of a historic district
designated by a community with a "Certified Local Government (CLG) Program)
Certified Local Government (CLG) Programs are approved by the US Department
of the Interior in cooperation with the North Carolina Department of Cultural
Resources through the State Historic Preservation officer as having met the
requirements of the natural Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended in 1980.
"Lowest Adjacent Grade (LAG)" means the elevation of the ground, sidewalk or patio slab immediately
next to the building, or deck support, after completion of the building. For Zones A and AO, use the
natural grade elevation prior to construction.
"Lowest Floor" means lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished or
flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or limited storage in an
area other than a basement area is not considered a building's lowest floor, provided that such an
enclosure is not built so as to render the structure in violation of the applicable non- elevation design
requirements of this ordinance
"Manufactured home" means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a
permanent chassis and designed to be used with or without a permanent foundation when connected to
the required utilities. The term "manufactured home" does not include a "recreational vehicle ".
"Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision" means a parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into
two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
"Market Value" means the building value, excluding the land value and that of any accessory structures
or other improvements on the lot, established by independent certified appraisal, replacement cost
depreciated by age of building and quality of construction (Actual Cash Value), or adjusted tax assessed
values.
"Mean Sea Level" means, for purposes of the NFIP, the National Geodetic Veticle Datum (NGVD) as
corrected in 1929, the North American Verticle Datum (NAVD) as corrected in 1988, or other vertical
control datum used as a reference for establishing various elevations within the floodplain, to which
Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) shown on a FIRM are referenced. Refer to each FIRM panel to determine
datum used.
"New construction" means structures for which the "start of construction" commenced on or after April
16, 1990 and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.
"Nonconforming building or Development" means any legally existing building or development which
fails to comply with the current provisions of this ordinance.
"Non- Encroachment Area" means the channel of a river or other 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 (1) foot as designated in the Flood Insurance Study report.
"Post- FIRM" means construction or other development which started on or after the effective date of the
initial Flood Insurance Rate Map for the area.
"Pre- FIRM" means construction or other development which started before the effective date of the
initial Flood Insurance Rate Map for the area.
"Principally Above Ground" means that at least 5 l % of the actual cash value of the structure is above
ground.
"Public Safety" and/or "Nuisance" means anything which is injurious to the safety or health of an entire
community or neighborhood, or any considerable number of persons, or unlawfully obstructs the free
passage or use, in the customary manner, of any navigable lake, or river, bay, stream, canal, or basin.
"Recreational Vehicle (RV)" means a vehicle, which is:
(1) built on a single chassis;
(2) Four hundred (400) 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) not designed use as a permanent primary dwelling, but as temporary living
quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
"Reference Level" is the portion of a structure or other development that must be compared to the
regulatory flood protection elevation to determine regulatory compliance. For structures within Special
Flood Hazard Areas designated as Zone AI -A30, AE, A, A99 or AO, the reference level is the top of the
lowest floor or bottom of lowest attendant utility including ductwork, whichever is lower.
"Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation" means the elevation, in relation to mean sea level, to which the
reference level of all structures and other development located within Special Flood Hazard Areas must
be protected. Where Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) have been determined, this elevation shall be the
BFE plus two (2) feet of freeboard. Where no BFE has been established, this elevation shall be at least
two (2) feet above the highest adjacent grade.
"Remedy a Violation" means to bring the structure or other development into compliance with State and
Harnett County floodplain management regulations, or if this is not possible, to reduce the impacts of its
noncompliance. Ways that impacts may be reduced include protecting the structure or other affected
development from flood damages, implementing the enforcement provisions of the ordinance or
otherwise deterring future similar violations, or reducing Federal financial exposure with regard to the
structure or other development.
"Repetitive Loss" means flood - related damages sustained by a structure on two (2) separate occasions
during any 10 -year period for which the cost of repairs at the time of each such flood event, on the
average, equals or exceeds twenty -five percent (25 %) of the market value of the structure before the
damage occurred.
"Riverine" means relating to, formed by, or resembling a river (including tributaries), stream, brook, etc.
"Salvage Yard" means any non - residential property used for the storage, collection, and /or recycling of
any type of equipment, and including but not limited to vehicles, appliances and related machinery.
"Solid Waste Disposal Facility" means any facility involved in the disposal of solid waste, as defined in
NCGS 130A- 290(a)(35).
"Solid Waste Disposal Site" means, as defined in NCGS 130A- 290(a)(36), any place at which solid
wastes are disposed of by incineration, sanitary landfill, or any other method "Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA)" means the land in the floodplain subject to a one (M) percent or greater chance of being
flooded in any given year as determined in Article 3, Section B of this ordinance.
"Start of Construction" includes substantial improvement, and means the date the building permit was
issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition
placement, or improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual start means the first
placement of permanent construction of a structure (including a manufactured home) on a site, such as
the pouring of slabs or footings, installation of piles, construction of columns, or any work beyond the
stage of excavation or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction
does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading, and filling; nor does it include the
installation of streets and /or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers or
foundations, or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation of the property of
accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main
structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any
wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of the building, whether or not that alteration affects the
external dimensions of the building.
"Structure" means a walled and roofed building, a manufactured home, or a gas or liquid storage tank
that is principally above ground. For floodplain management purposes, principally above ground means
that at least 51 % of the actual cash value of the structure is above ground.
"Substantial Damage" means damage of any origin sustained by a structure during any one year period
whereby the cost of the restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50
percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred. See definition of "substantial
improvement ".
"Substantial Improvement" means any combination of repairs, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or
other improvement of a structure, taking place during any one year period for which the cost equals or
exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the "start of construction" of the
improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred "substantial damage ", regardless of the
actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:
(1) any correction of existing violations of State or Harnett County health,
sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified by the Harnett
County code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure
safe living conditions; or,
(2) any alteration of a historic structure, provided that the alteration will not
preclude the structure's continued designation as a historic structure.
"Variance" is a grant of relief to a person from the requirements of this.
"Violation" means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the
community's floodplain management regulations. A structure or other development without the
elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in Articles 4 and 5 is
presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.
"Water Surface Elevation (WSE)" means the height, in relation to mean sea level (existing grade in case
of Zone AO), of floods of various magnitudes and frequencies in the floodplains of riverine areas.
"Watercourse" means a lake, river, creek, stream, wash, channel or other topographic feature on or over
which waters flow at least periodically. Watercourse includes specifically designated areas in which
substantial flood damage may occur.
ARTICLE 3. GENERAL PROVISIONS
Section A. LANDS TO WHICH THIS ORDINANCE APPLIES.
This ordinance shall apply to all Special Flood Hazard Areas within the jurisdiction of Harnett County.
Section B. BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE AREAS OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD.
The Special Flood Hazard Areas are those identified under the Cooperating Technical State (CTS)
agreement between the State of North Carolina and FEMA in its Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and its
accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), for Harnett County dated October 3, 2006, which are
adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this ordinance.
Section C. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT.
A Floodplain Development Permit shall be required in conformance with the provisions of this
ordinance prior to the commencement of any development activities within Special Flood Hazard Areas
as determined in Article 3, Section B..
Section D. COMPLIANCE.
No structure or land shall hereafter be located, extended, converted, altered or developed in any way
without full compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable regulations.
Section E. ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS.
This ordinance is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed
restrictions. However, where this ordinance and another conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the
more stringent restrictions shall prevail.
Section F. INTERPRETATION.
In the interpretation and application of this ordinance 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.
Section G. WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY.
The degree of flood protection required by this ordinance is considered reasonable for regulatory
purposes and is based on scientific and engineering consideration. Larger floods can and will occur.
Actual flood heights may be increased by man -made or natural causes. This ordinance does not imply
that land outside the Special Flood Hazard Areas or uses permitted within such areas will be free from
flooding or flood damages. This ordinance shall not create liability on the part of Harnett County or by
any officer or employee thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on this ordinance or any
administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.
Section H. PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION.
Violation of the provisions of this ordinance or failure to comply with any of its requirements, including
violation of conditions and safeguards established in connection with grants of variance or special
exceptions, shall constitute a misdemeanor. Any person who violates this ordinance or fails to take
corrective action within the specific time period given by the Zoning Administrator or after receiving
I ritten notice from the Harnett County Planning Deparrtment shall subject themselves to a civil penalty
of up to one hundred dollars ($100.00). Each day such violation exist shall constitute a separate offense.
Continuous violations shall be subject to a civil penalty in the amount specified in subsection e., below.
Failure to pay the penalty within fifteen (15) days from the receipt of the notice of Civil Penalty shall
subject themselves to a civil action in the nature of debt for the stated penalty plus any additional
penalties, together with the cost of the action to be taxed by the Court. Nothing herein contained shall
prevent Harnett County from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any
violation.
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ARTICLE 4. ADMINISTRATION.
Section A. DESIGNATION OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATOR.
The Manager of Planning Services, herein referred to as the Floodplain Administrator, is hereby
appointed to administer and implement the provisions of this ordinance.
Section B. DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AND CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS.
(1) Application for a Development Permit shall be made to the floodplain
administrator prior to any development activities located within Special Flood
Hazard Areas. The following items shall be presented to the floodplain
administrator to apply for a floodplain development permit:
(a) A plot plan drawn to scale which shall include, but shall not be limited to,
the following specific details of the proposed floodplain development:
(i) the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations of the area of
development/disturbance; existing and proposed structures, utility systems,
gradingipavement areas, fill materials, storage areas, drainage facilities, and
other development;
(ii) the boundary of the Special Flood Hazard Area as delineated on the FIRM
or other flood map as determined in Article 3, Section B, or a statement that the
entire lot is within the Special Flood Hazard Area;
(iii) flood zone(s) designation of the proposed development area as determined
on the FIRM or other flood map as determined in Article 3, Section B;
(iv) the boundary of the floodway(s) or non - encroachment area(s) as determined
in Article 3, Section B;
(v) the Base Flood Elevation (BEE) where provided as set forth in Article 3,
Section B; Article 4, Section QI I & 12); or Article 5, Section D;
(vi) the old and new location of any watercourse that will be altered or relocated
as a result of proposed development;
(vii) certification of the plot plan by a registered land surveyor or professional
engineer.
(b) Proposed elevation, and method thereof, of all development within a Special
Flood Hazard Area including but not limited to:
(i) Elevation in relation to mean sea level of the proposed reference level
(including basement) of all structures;
(ii) Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any non - residential structure
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in Zone AE, A or AO will be flood - proofed;
(iii) Elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any proposed utility systems
will be elevated or floodproofed;
(c) If floodproofing, a Floodproofing Certificate (FEMA Form 81 -65) along
with detailed back -up computations and operational plans that specify the
location on a FIRM panel of flood proofing measures, the entity responsible for
transportation and installation according to the design within the warning time
available, and maintenance of floodproofing measures assuring their
effectiveness when installed. Floodproofing certificate and back -up
computations and operational plans shall be certified by a registered professional
engineer or architect to ensure that the non - residential floodproofed development
will meet the floodproofing criteria in Article 5, Section B(2).
(d) A Foundation Plan drawn to scale which shall include details of the
proposed foundation system to ensure all provisions of this ordinance are met.
These details include but are not limited to:
(i) The proposed method of elevation, if applicable (i.e., fill, solid foundation
perimeter wall, solid backfilled foundation, open foundation on
columns/posts /piers /piles /shear walls);
(ii) Openings to facilitate equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on walls in
accordance with Article 5, Section B(4), when solid foundation perimeter walls
are used in Zones A, AO, AE, and Al -30;
(e) Usage details of any enclosed areas below the regulatory flood protection
elevation.
(f) Plans and/or details for the protection of public utilities and facilities such as
sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems to be located and constructed to
minimize flood damage;
(g) Copies of all other Local, State and Federal permits required prior to
floodplain development permit issuance (Wetlands, Endangered Species,
Erosion and Sedimentation Control, Riparian Buffers, Mining, etc.)
(h) Documentation for placement of Recreational Vehicles and/or Temporary
Structures, when applicable, to ensure Article 5, Sections B(6 & 7) of this
ordinance are met.
(i) A description of proposed watercourse alteration or relocation, when
applicable, including an engineering report on the effects of the proposed project
on the flood - carrying capacity of the watercourse and the effects to properties
located both upstream and downstream; and a map (if not shown on plot plan)
showing the location of the proposed watercourse alteration or relocation.
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(2) Permit Requirements. The Floodplain Development Permit shall include,
but not be limited to:
(a) A description of the development to be permitted under the floodplain
development permit.
(b) The Special Flood Hazard Area determination for the proposed development
per available data specified in Article 3, Section B.
(c) The regulatory flood protection elevation required for the reference level and
all attendant utilities.
(d) The regulatory flood protection elevation required for the protection of all
public utilities.
(e) All certification submittal requirements with timelines.
(t) A statement that no fill material shall encroach into the floodway or non-
encroachment area of any watercourse, as applicable.
(g) The flood openings requirements, if in Zones A, AO, AE or Al -30.
(3) Certification Requirements.
(a) Elevation Certificates:
(i) An Elevation Certificate (FEMA Form 81 -31) or Floodproofing Certificate
(FEMA Form 81 -65) is required after the reference level is established. Within
twenty -one (2 1) calendar days of establishment of the reference level elevation,
it shall be the duty of the permit holder to submit to the floodplain administrator
a certification of the elevation of the reference level, in relation to mean sea
level. Elevation certification shall be prepared by, or under the direct
supervision of, a registered land surveyor or professional engineer and certified
by same. Any work done within the twenty -one (2l) day calendar period and
prior to submission of the certification shall be at the permit holder's risk. The
floodplain administrator shall review the certificate data submitted. Deficiencies
detected by such review shall be corrected by the permit holder immediately and
prior to further work being permitted to proceed. Failure to submit the
certification or failure to make required corrections shall be cause to issue a
stop -work order for the project.
(ii) A Final As -Built Elevation Certificate (FEMA Form 81 -31) is required after
construction is completed and prior to Certificate of Compliance /Occupancy
issuance. It shall be the duty of the permit holder to submit to the floodplain
administrator a certification of final as -built construction of the elevation of the
reference level and all attendant utilities. Elevation certification shall be
prepared by, or under the direct supervision of, a registered land surveyor or
professional engineer and certified by same. The floodplain administrator shall
review the certificate data submitted. Deficiencies detected by such review shall
be corrected by the permit holder immediately and prior to Certificate of
MR]
Compliance /Occupancy issuance. In some instances, another certification may
be required to certify corrected as -built construction. Failure to submit the
certification or failure to make required corrections shall be cause to withhold
the issuance of a Certificate of Compliance /Occupancy.
(b) If non - residential tloodproofing is used to meet the regulatory flood
protection elevation requirements, a Floodproofing Certificate (FEMA Form 81-
65) is required prior to the actual start of any new construction. It shall be the
duty of the permit holder to submit to the floodplain administrator a certification
of the floodproofed design elevation of the reference level and all attendant
utilities, in relation to mean sea level. Floodproofing certification shall be
prepared by or under the direct supervision of a professional engineer or
architect and certified by same. The floodplain administrator shall review the
certificate data submitted. Deficiencies detected by such review shall be
corrected by the permit holder prior to the beginning of construction. Failure to
submit the certification or failure to make required corrections shall be cause to
deny a floodplain development permit. Failure to construct in accordance with
the certified design shall be cause to withhold the issuance of a Certificate of
Compliance /Occupancy.
(c) If a manufactured home is placed within Zone A, AO, AE, or Al -30 and the
elevation of the chassis is more than 36 inches in height above grade, an
engineered foundation certification is required per Article 5, Section B(3).
(d) If a watercourse is to be altered or relocated, a description of the extent of
watercourse alteration or relocation; an engineering report on the effects of the
proposed project on the flood- carrying capacity of the watercourse and the
effects to properties located both upstream and downstream; and a map showing
the location of the proposed watercourse alteration or relocation shall all be
submitted by the permit applicant prior to issuance of a floodplain development
permit.
(e) Certification Exemptions. The following structures, if located within Zone
A, AO, AE or Al -30, are exempt from the elevation/floodproofing certification
requirements specified in items (a) and (b) above:
(i) Recreational Vehicles meeting requirements of Article 5, Section B(6)(a);
(ii) Temporary Structures meeting requirements of Article 5, Section B(7); and
(iii) Accessory Structures less than 150 square feet meeting requirements of
Article 5, Section B(8).
Section C. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LOCAL ADMINISTRATOR.
The floodplain administrator shall perform, but not be limited to, the following duties:
(1) Review all floodplain development applications and issue permits for all
14
proposed development within Special Flood Hazard Areas to assure that the
requirements of this ordinance have been satisfied.
(2) Advise applicant that additional Federal or State permits (Wetlands,
Endangered Species, Erosion and Sedimentation Control, Riparian Buffers,
Mining, etc.) may be required, and require that copies of such permits be provided
and maintained on file with the development permit.
(3) Notify adjacent communities and the North Carolina Department of Crime
Control and Public Safety, Division of Emergency, State Coordinator for the
National Flood Insurance Program prior to any alteration or relocation of a
watercourse, and submit evidence of such notification the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA).
(4) Assure that maintenance is provided within the altered or relocated portion of
said watercourse so that the flood - carrying capacity is not diminished.
(5) Prevent encroachments within floodways unless the certification and flood
hazard reduction provisions of Article 5, Section E are met.
(6) Obtain actual elevation (in relation to mean sea level) of the reference level
(including basement) and all attendant utilities of all new or substantially
improved structures, in accordance with Article 4, Section B(3).
(7) Obtain the actual elevation (in relation to mean sea level) to which the new or
substantially improved structures and all utilities have been floodproofed, in
accordance with Article 4, Section B(3).
(8) Obtain Actual elevation (in relation to mean sea level) of all public utilities in
accordance with Article 4, Section B(3).
(9) When floodproofing is utilized for a particular structure, obtain certifications
from a registered professional engineer or architect in accordance with Article 4,
Section B(2).
(10) Where interpretation is needed as to the exact location of boundaries of the
Special Flood Hazard Areas (for example, where there appears to be a conflict
between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions), make the necessary
interpretation. The person contesting the location of the boundary shall be given a
reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation as provided in this article.
(11) When Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data or floodway data has not been
provided in accordance with Article 3, Section B, obtain, review, and reasonably
utilize any Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data, along with floodway data or non -
enchroachment area data available from a Federal, State, or other source,
F4. ".
including data developed pursuant to Article 5, Section 1)(2)(b), in order to
administer the provisions of this ordinance.
(12) When Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data is provided but no floodway nor
non - encroachment area data has been provided in accordance with Article 3,
Section B, obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any floodway data or non -
encroachment area data available from a Federal, State, or other source in order to
administer the provisions of this ordinance.
(13) When the exact location of boundaries of the Special Flood Hazard Areas
conflict with the current, natural topography information at the site, the property
owner may apply and be approved for a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) by
FEMA. Maintain a copy of the Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) issued by
FEMA in the floodplain development permit file.
(14) Permanently maintain all records that pertain to the administration of this
ordinance and make these records available for public inspection.
(15) Make on -site inspections of work in progress. As the work pursuant to a
floodplain development permit progresses, the floodplain administrator shall
make as many inspections of the work as may be necessary to ensure that the work
is being done according to the provisions of the local ordinance and the terms of
the permit. in exercising this power, the floodplain administrator has a right, upon
presentation of proper credentials, to enter on any premises within the jurisdiction
of the community at any reasonable hour for the purposes of inspection or other
enforcement action.
(16) Issue stop -work orders as required. Whenever a building or part thereof is
being constructed, reconstructed, altered, or repaired in violation of this
ordinance, the floodplain administrator may order the work to be immediately
stopped. The stop -work order shall be in writing and directed to the person doing
the work. The stop -work order shall state the specific work to be stopped, the
specific reason(s) for the stoppage, and the condition(s) under which the work
may be resumed. Violation of a stop -work order constitutes a misdemeanor.
(17) Revoke floodplain development permits as required. The floodplain
administrator may revoke and require the return of the floodplain development
permit by notifying the permit holder in writing stating the reason(s) for the
revocation. Permits shall be revoked for any substantial departure from the
approved application, plans, or specifications; for refusal or failure to comply with
the requirements of State or local laws; or for false statements or
misrepresentations made in securing the permit. Any floodplain development
permit mistakenly issued in violation of an applicable State or local law may also
be revoked.
FI-
(18) Make periodic inspections throughout all special flood hazard areas within
the jurisdiction of the community. The floodplain administrator and each member
of his or her inspections department shall have a right, upon presentation of proper
credentials, to enter on any premises within the territorial jurisdiction of the
department at any reasonable hour for the purposes of inspection or other
enforcement action.
(19) Follow through with corrective procedures of Article 4, Section D.
(20) Review, provide input, and make recommendations for variance requests.
(21) Maintain a current map repository to include, but not limited to, the FIS
Report, FIRM and /or other official flood maps /studies adopted under Article 3,
Section B of this ordinance, including any revisions thereto including Letters of
Map Change, issued by State and /or FEMA. Notify State and FEMA of mapping
needs.
(22) Coordinate revisions to FIS reports and FIRMS, including Letters of Map
Revision Based on Fill (LOMR -F) and Letters of Map Revision (LOMB).
Section D. CORRECTIVE PROCEDURES.
(1) Violations to be Corrected: When the floodplain administrator finds
violations of applicable State and local laws, it shall be his or her duty to notify
the owner or occupant of the building of the violation. The owner or occupant
shall immediately remedy each of the violations of law pertaining to the subject
property.
(2) Actions in Event of Failure to Take Corrective Action: If the owner of a
building or property shall fail to take prompt corrective action, the floodplain
administrator shall give the owner written notice, by certified or registered mail to
the owner's last known address or by personal service, stating:
(a) that the building or property is in violation of the Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance:
(b) that a hearing will be held before the local administrator at a designated
place and time, not later than ten (10) days after the date of the notice, at which
time the owner shall be entitled to be heard in person or by counsel and to
present arguments and evidence pertaining to the matter; and,
(c) that following the hearing, the floodplain administrator may issue an order to
alter, vacate, or demolish the building; or to remove fill as appears appropriate.
(3) Order to Take Corrective Action: If, upon a hearing held pursuant to the notice
prescribed above the floodplain administrator shall find that the building or
development is in violation of the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, the
administrator shall issue an order in writing to the owner, requiring the owner to
remedy the violation within a specified tiume, not less than sixty (60) days, nor
more than one hundred and eighty (180) days. Where the administrator finds that
there is imminent danger to life or other property, it may be ordered that corrective
action be taken in such lesser period as may be feasible.
(4) Appeal: Any owner who has received an order to take corrective action may
appeal from the order to the local elected governing body by giving notice of
appeal in writing to the floodplain administrator and the clerk within ten (10) days
following issuance of the final order. In the absence of an appeal, the order of the
floodplain administrator shall be final. The local governing body shall hear an
appeal within a reasonable time and may affirm, modify and affirm, or revoke the
order.
(5) Failure to Comply with Order: If the owner of a building or property fails to
comply with an order to take corrective action from which no appeal has been
made or fails to comply with an order of the governing body following an appeal,
the owner shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punished in the discretion
of the court.
Section E. VARIANCE PROCEDURES.
(1) The Board of Adjustments as established by the Board of Commissioners,
hereinafter referred to as the "appeal board ", shall hear and decide requests for
variances from the requirements of this ordinance.
(2) Any person aggrieved by the decision of the appeal board may appeal such
decision to the Court, as provided in Chapter 7A of the North Carolina General
Statutes.
(3) Variances may be issued for:
(a) the repair of rehabilitation of historic structures upon the determination that
the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure's continued
designation as a historic structure and the variance is the minimum necessary to
preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
(b) functionally dependant facilities if determined to meet the definition as
stated in Article 2 of this ordinance
(c) any other type of development, provided it meets the requirements stated in
this section.
M
(4) In passing upon varainces, the appeal board shall consider all technical
evaluations, all standards specified in other sections of this ordinance, and:
(a) the danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of
others;
(b) the danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
(c) the susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage
and the effect of such damage on the individual owner;
(d) the importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the
community;
(e) the necessity to the facility of a waterfront location as defined under Article
2 of this ordinance as a functionally dependant facility, where applicable;
(f) the availability of alternative locations, not subject to flooding or erosion
damage, for the proposed use;
(g) the compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated
development;
(h) the relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and
floodplain management program for that area;
(i) the safety access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and
emergency vehicles;
0) the expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise, and sediment transport
of the flood waters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at the
site; and,
(k) 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, and streets and bridges.
(5) A written report addressing each of the above factors shall be submitted with
the application for a variance.
(6) Upon consideration of the factors listed above and purposes of this ordinance,
the appeal board may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it
deems necessary to further the purposes of this ordinance.
(7) Variances shall not be issued within any designation floodway or non-
encroachment area if any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge
19
would result.
(8) Conditions for Variances:
(a) Variances may not be issued when the variance will make the structure in
violation of other Federal, State, or local laws, regulations, or ordinances.
(b) Variances shall only be issued upon determination that the variance is the
minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
(c) Variances shall only be issued upon
(i) a showing of good and sufficient cause;
(ii) a determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional
hardship; and,
(iii) a determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased
flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense,
create nuisance, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with
existing local laws or ordinances.
(d) Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice
specifying the difference between the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) and the
elevation to which the structure is to be built and a written statement that the cost
of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk resulting from
the reduced level elevation. Such notification shall be maintained with a record
of all variance actions.
(e) Variances shall only be issued prior to development permit approval.
(f) The floodplain administrator shall maintain the records of all appeal actions
and report any variances to the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the
State of North Carolina upon request.
(9) A variance may be issued for solid waste disposal facilities, hazardous waste
management facilities, salvage yards, and chemical storage facilities that are
located in Special Flood Hazard Areas provided that all of the following
conditions are met.
(a) The use serves a critical need in the community.
(b) No feasible location exists for the use outside the Special Flood Hazard
Area.
(c) The reference level of any structure is elevated or floodproofed to at least the
regulatory flood protection elevation.
100461
(d) The use complies with all other applicable Federal, State and local laws.
(e) Harnett County has notified the Secretary of the North Carolina Department
of Crime Control and Public Safety of its intention to grant a variance at least
thirty (30) calendar days prior to granting the variance.
ARTICLE 5. PROVISIONS FOR FLOOD HAZARD REDUCTION.
Section A. GENERAL STANDARDS
In all Special Flood Hazard Areas the following provisions are required:
(1) All new construction and substantial improvements shall be anchored to
prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure;
(2) All new construction and substantial improvements below the regulatory flood
protection elevation shall be constructed with materials and utility equipment
resistant to flood damage;
(3) All new construction or substantial improvements shall be constructed by
methods and practices that minimize flood damages;
(4) Electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, air conditioning equipment, and
other service facilities shall be designed and /or located so as to prevent water from
entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding.
These include, but are not limited to, HVAC equipment, water softener units,
bath/kitchen fixtures, ductwork, electric /gas meter panels/boxes, utility /cable
boxes, appliances (washers, dryers, refrigerators, freezers, etc.), hot water heaters,
and electric outlets /switches.
(5) All new and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system;
(6) New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize
or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the
systems into flood waters;
(7) On -site waste disposal systems shall be located and constructed to avoid
impairment to them or contamination from them during flooding; and,
(8) Any alteration, repair, reconstruction, or improvements to a structure which is
in compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, shall meet the requirements
of "new construction" as contained in this ordinance.
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(9) Nothing in this ordinance shall prevent the repair, reconstruction, or
replacement of a building or structure existing on the effective date of this
ordinance and located totally or partially within the floodway, non - encroachment
area, or stream setback, provided that the bulk of the building or structure below
the regulatory flood protection elevation in the floodway, non - encroachment area,
or stream setback is not increased and provided that such repair, reconstruction, or
replacement meets all of the other requirements of this ordinance.
(10) New solid waste disposal facilities, hazardous waste management
facilities, salvage yards, and chemical storage facilities shall not be permitted in
Special Flood Hazard Areas, except by variance as specified in Article 4, Section
E(9). A structure or tank for chemical or fuel storage incidental to an allowed use
or to the operation of a water treatment plant or wastewater treatment facility may
be located in a Special Flood Hazard Area only if the structure or tank is either
elevated or floodproofed to at least the regulatory flood protection elevation and
certified according to Article 4, Section B(3) of this ordinance.
(11) All subdivision proposals and other development proposals shall be
consistent with the need to minimize flood damage.
(12) All subdivision proposals and other development proposals shall have
public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems
located and constructed to minimize flood damage.
(13) All subdivision proposals and other development proposals shall have
adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
(14) All subdivision proposals and other development proposals shall have
received all necessary permits from those governmental agencies for which
approval is required by Federal or State law, including Section 404 of the Federal
Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, 33 U.S.C. 1334.
Section B. SPECIFIC STANDARDS.
In all Special Flood Hazard Areas where Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data has been provided, as set
forth in Article 3, Section B, or Article 4, Section C(11 & 12), the following provisions, in addition to
Article 5, Section A, are required:
(1) Residential Construction. New construction or substantial improvement of any
residential structure (including manufactured homes) shall have the reference
level, including basement, elevated no lower than the regulatory flood protection
elevation, as defined in Article 2 of this ordinance.
(2) Non - Residential Construction. New construction or substantial improvement
of any commercial, industrial, or non - residential structure shall have the reference
22
level, including basement, elevated no lower than the regulatory flood protection
elevation, as defined in Article 2 of this ordinance. Structures located in A, AO,
AE and AI -30 Zones may be floodproofed to the regulatory flood protection
elevation in lieu of elevation provided that all areas of the structure below the
required elevation are watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the
passage of water, using structural components having the capability of resisting
hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and the effect of buoyancy. A registered
professional engineer or architect shall certify that the standards of this subsection
are satisfied. Such certification shall be provided to the floodplain administrator
as set forth in Article 4, Section B(3), along with the operational and maintenance
plans.
(3) Manufactured Homes.
(a) New or replacement manufactured homes shall be elevated so that the
reference level of the manufactured home is no lower than the regulatory flood
protection elevation, as defined in Article 2 of this ordinance.
(b) Manufactured homes shall be securely anchored to an adequately anchored
foundation to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement in accordance with
the State of North Carolina Regulations for Manufactured/Mobile Homes, 1995
Edition, and any revision thereto adopted by the Commissioner of Insurance
pursuant to NCGS 4143- 143.15 or a certified engineered foundation.
Additionally, when the elevation would be met by an elevation of the chassis
thirty -six (36) inches or less above the grade at the site, the chassis shall be
supported by reinforced piers or engineered foundation. When the elevation of
the chassis is above thirty -six (36) inches in height, an engineering certification
is required
(c) All foundation enclosures or skirting shall be in accordance with Article 5,
Section B(4).
(d) An evacuation plan must be developed for evacuation of all residents of all
new, substantially improved or substantially damaged manufactured home parks
or subdivisions located within flood prone areas. This plan shall be filed with
and approved by the floodplain administrator and the local Emergency
Management coordinator.
(4) Elevated Buildings. Enclosed areas, of new construction or substantially
improved structures, which are below the regulatory flood protection elevation:
(a) shall not be designed or used for human habitation, but shall only be used for
parking of vehicles, building access, or limited storage of maintenance
equipment used in connection with the premises. Access to the enclosed area
shall be the minimum necessary to allow for parking of vehicles (garage door) or
limited storage of maintenance equipment (standard exterior door), or entry to
the living area (stairway or elevator). The interior portion of such enclosed area
23
shall not be partitioned or finished into separate rooms, except to enclose storage
areas;
(b) shall be constructed entirely of flood resistant materials below the regulatory
flood protection elevation;
(c) shall include, in Zones A, AO, AE, and Al -30, measures to automatically
equalize hydrostatic flood forces on walls by allowing for the entry and exit of
floodwaters. To meet this requirement, the openings must either be certified by
a professional engineer or architect or meet the following minimum design
criteria;
(i) Provide a minimum of two openings on different sides of each enclosed area
subject to flooding;
(ii) The total net area of all openings must be at least one (1) square inch for
each square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding;
(iii) If a building has more than one enclosed area, each area must have openings
to allow floodwaters to automatically enter and exit;
(iv) The bottom of all required openings shall be no higher than one (1) foot
above the adjacent grade;
(v) Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, or other opening
coverings or devices, provided they permit the automatic flow of floodwaters in
both directions; and
(vi) Foundation enclosures made of flexible skirting are not considered
enclosures for regulatory purposes, and, therefore, do not require openings.
Masonry or wood underpinning, regardless of structural status, is considered an
enclosure and requires openings as outlined above.
(5) Additions /Improvements.
(a) Additions and/or improvements to pre -FIRM structures when the addition
and/or improvements in combination with any interior modifications to the
existing structure are:
(i) not a substantial improvement, the addition and/or improvements must be
designed to minimize flood damages and must not be any more non - conforming
than the existing structure.
(ii) a substantial improvement, both the existing structure and the addition
and/or improvements must comply with the standards for new construction.
(b) Additions to post -FIRM structures with no modifications to the existing
structure other than a standard door in the common wall shall require only the
addition to comply with the standards for new construction.
24
(c) Additions and/or improvements to post -FIRM structures when the addition
and/or improvements in combination with any interior modifications to the
existing structure are:
(i) not a substantial improvement, the addition and/or improvements only must
comply with the standards for new construction.
(ii) a substantial improvement, both the existing structure and the addition
and /or improvements must comply with the standards for new construction.
(d) Where a fire wall or independent perimeter load- bearing wall is provided
between the addition and the existing building, the addition(s) shall be
considered a separate building and only the addition must comply with the
standards for new construction.
(6) Recreational Vehicles. Recreation vehicles placed on sites within a Special
Flood Hazard area shall either:
(a) be on site for fewer than 180 consecutive days and be fully licensed and ready
for highway use (a recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its
wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type
utilities, and has no permanently attached additions); or
(b) meet all the requirements for new construction, including anchoring and
elevation requirements of Article 4, Section B and Article 5, Sections A and
B(3).
(7) Temporary Non - Residential Structures. Prior to the issuance of a floodplain
development permit, for a temporary structure, applicants must submit to the
floodplain administrator a plan for the removal of such structure(s0 in the event of
a hurricane, flash flood or other type of flood warning notification. The following
information shall be submitted in writing to the floodplain administrator for
review and written approval:
(a) a specified time period for which the temporary use will be permitted. Time
specified should be minimal with total time on site not to exceed one year;
(b) the name, address and phone number of the individual responsible for the
removal of the temporary structure;
(c) the time frame prior to the event at which a structure will be removed (i.e.
minimum of seventy -two (72) hours before landfall of a hurricane or
immediately upon flood warning notification);
(d) a copy of the contract or other suitable instrument with a trucking company
to ensure the availability of removal equipment when needed; and
25
(e) designation, accompanied by documentation, of a location outside the
floodplain to which the temporary structure will be moved.
(S) Accessory Structure. When accessory structures (sheds, detached garages, etc.)
are to be placed within a Special Flood Hazard Area, the following criteria shall
be met:
(a) Accessory structures shall be used for human habitation (including work,
sleeping, living, cooking or restroom areas);
(b) Accessory structures shall not be temperature - controlled.
(c) Accessory structures shall be designed to have low flood damage potential;
(d) Accessory structures shall be constructed and placed on the building site so
as to offer the minimum resistance to the flow of floodwaters;
(e) Accessory structures shall be firmly anchored in accordance with Article 5,
Section A(1);
(f) All service facilities such as electrical shall be installed in accordance with
Article 5 Section A(4); and
(g) Openings to relieve hydrostatic pressure during a flood shall be provided
below flood protection elevation in conformance with Article 5 Section B(4)(a).
(h) An accessory structure with a footprint less than 150 square feet that
satisfies the criteria outlined above does not require an elevation or
floodproofing certificate. Elevation or floodprootng certifications are required
for all other accessory structures in accordance with Article 4, Section B(3).
Section C. RESERVED
Section D. STANDARDS FOR FLOODPLAINS WITHOUT ESTABLISHED BASE
FLOOD ELEVATIONS.
Within the Special Flood Hazard Areas established in Article 3, Section B, where no Base Flood
Elevation (BFE) data has been provided by FEMA, the following provisions, in addition to Article 5,
Section A, shall apply:
(1) No encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements
or new development shall be permitted within a distance of twenty (20) feet each
side from top of bank or five times the width of the stream, whichever is greater,
unless certification with supporting technical data by a registered professional
engineer is provided demonstrating that such encroachments shall not result in any
increase in flood levels during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
26
(2) The BFE used in determining the regulatory flood protection elevation shall be
determined based on one of the following criteria set in priority order:
(a) If Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data is available from other sources, all new
construction and substantial improvements within such areas shall also comply
with all applicable provisions of this ordinance and shall be elevated or
floodproofed in accordance with standards in Article 4, Section C(11 & 12).
(b) All subdivision, manufactured home park and other development proposals
located within Special Flood Hazard Areas shall provide Base Flood Elevation
(BFE) data if development is greater than five (5) acres or has more than
fifty (50) lots /manufactured home sites. Such Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
data shall be adopted by reference per Article 3, Section B to be utilized in
implementing this ordinance.
(c) When Base Flood Elevation (BEE) data is not available from a Federal,
State, or other source as outlined above, the reference level shall be elevated
above the highest adjacent grade as required in the regulatory flood protection
elevation definition.
Section E. STANDARDS FOR RIVERINE FLOODPLAINS WITH BFE BUT WITHOUT
ESTABLISHED FLOODWAYS OR NON - ENCROACHMENT AREAS.
Along rivers and streams where BFE data is provided but neither floodway nor non - encroachment areas
are identified for a Special Flood Hazard Area on the FIRM or in the FIS report, the following
requirements shall apply to all development within such areas:
(1) Standards outlined in Article 5, Sections A and B; and
(2) no encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements,
or other development, shall be permitted unless certification with supporting
technical data by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that
the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other
existing and anticipated development, will not increase the water surface elevation
of the base flood more than one foot at any point within the community.
Section F. FLOODWAYS AND NON - ENCROACHMENT AREAS.
Areas designated as floodways or non - encroachment areas are located within the Special Flood Hazard
Areas established in Article 3, Section B. The floodways and non - encroachment areas are extremely
hazardous areas due to the velocity of floodwaters that have erosion potential and carry debris and
potential projectiles. The following provisions, in addition to standards outlined in Article 5, Sections A
and B, shall apply to all development within such areas:
27
(1) No encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements
and other developments shall be permitted unless it has been demonstrated that:
(a) the proposed encroachment would not result in any increase in the flood
levels during the occurrence of the base flood, based on hydrologic and
hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with standard engineering practice
and presented to the floodplain administrator prior to issuance of floodplain
development permit, or
(b) a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) has been approved by
FEMA. A Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) must also be obtained upon
completion of the proposed encroachment.
(2) If Article 5, Section F(1) is satisfied, all development shall comply with all
applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of this ordinance.
(3) No manufactured homes shall be permitted, except replacement manufactured
homes in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision, provided the
following provisions are met:
(a) the anchoring and the elevation standards of Article 5, Section B(3); and
(b) the no encroachment standard of Article 5, Section F(1) are met.
Section G. STANDARDS FOR AREAS OF SHALLOW FLOODING (ZONE AO).
Located within the Special Flood Hazard Areas established in Article 3, Section B, are
areas designated as shallow flooding areas. These areas have special flood hazards
associated with base flood depths of one (1) to three (3) feet where a clearly defined
channel does not exist and where the path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate.
In addition to Article 5, Section A, all new construction and substantial improvements
shall meet the following requirements:
(1) The reference level shall be elevated at least as high as the depth number
specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), in feet, plus a freeboard of
two (2) feet, above the highest adjacent grade; or at least two feet above the
highest adjacent grade plus a freeboard of two (2) feet if no depth number is
specified.
(2) Non - residential structures may, in lieu of elevation, be floodproofed to the
same level as required in Article 5, Section H(1) so that the structure, together
with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, below that level shall be watertight
with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural
components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads
and effects of buoyancy. Certification is required as per Article 4, Section B(3)
and Article 5, Section B(2).
0*1
(3) Adequate drainage paths shall be provided around structures on slopes, to
guide floodwaters around and away from proposed structures.
ARTICLE 6. LEGAL STATUS PROVISIONS
Section A. EFFECT ON RIGHTS AND LIABILITIES UNDER THE EXISTING FLOOD
DAMAGE PREVENTION ORDINANCE.
This Ordinance in part comes forward by re- enactment of some of the provisions of the flood damage
prevention ordinance enacted April 16, 1990 as amended, and it is not the intention to repeal but rather
to re -enact and continue to enforce without interruption of such existing provisions, so that all rights and
liabilities that have accrued thereunder are reserved and may be enforced. The enactment of this
ordinance shall not affect any action, suit or proceeding instituted or pending. All provisions of the
flood damage prevention ordinance of Harnett County enacted on April 16, 1990, as amended, which are
not re- enacted herein are repealed.
Section B. EFFECT UPON OUTSTANDING BUILDING PERMITS.
Nothing herein contained shall require any change in the plans, construction, size or designated use of
any building, structure or part thereof for which a building permit has been granted by the Chief Building
Inspector or his authorized agents before the time of passage of this ordinance; provided, however, that
when construction is not begun under such outstanding permit within a period of sixty (60) days
subsequent to passage of this ordinance, construction or use shall be in confonnity with the provisions of
this ordinance.
Section C. EFFECTIVE DATE
This ordinance shall become effective upon adoption.
Section D. ADOPTION CERTIFICATION
I hereby certify that this is a true and correct copy of the flood damage prevention ordinance as adopted
by the Board of Commissioners of Harnett County, North Carolina, on the 18th day of September, 2006.
OF
ATTEST:
J
Kay Blakhard, Clerk to the Board
29
NORTH CAROLINA
HARNETT COUNTY
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I, a Notary Public of the County and State aforesaid,
certify that Teddy Byrd ersonally appeared before me this day who being duly sworn,
deposes and says that he is the Chairman of the Harnett County Board of Commissioners
and Kay Blanchard is clerk to said Board, that the foregoing instrument was signed and
sealed by him, attested by the clerk and the County's seal affixed thereto, all by authority
of the Board of Commissioners of said County, and the said Teddy Byrd acknowledged
said instrument to the act and deed of Harnett County.
My Commission expires /I - /
k:S:o 1AR�
A�'BLIG
Notary Public
SETT. CoUN
L Tk CARC�
KIMBERLY S. HARGROVE
REGISTER OF DEEDS, HARNETT
305 W CORNELIUS HARNETT BLVD
SUITE 200
LILLINGTON, NC 27546
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Filed For Registration: 0112612007 03:16:46 PM
Book: RE 2334 Page: 230 -261
Document No.: 2007001650
ORDINANCE 32 PGS $104.00
Recorder: TRUDI S WESTER
State of North Carolina, County of Harnett
KIMBERLY S. HARGROVE , REGISTER OF DEEDS
DO NOT DISCARD
*2007001650*
2007001650