[Ord. 349, 3/20/2017]
The provisions of this chapter do not require any changes or improvements to be made to lawfully existing structures. However, when an improvement is made to any existing structure, the provisions of § 702 shall apply.
[Ord. 349, 3/20/2017]
The following provisions shall apply whenever any improvement is made to an existing structure located within any identified floodplain area:
(a) 
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed within any Floodway Area/District that would cause any increase in base flood elevation.
(b) 
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed within AE Area/District without floodway that would, together with all other existing and anticipated development, increase the base flood elevation more than one foot at any point.
(c) 
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement, of any kind to an existing structure, to an extent or amount of 50% or more of its then-present market value (determined at a point immediately prior to the modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement), shall constitute a substantial improvement and shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
(d) 
The above activity shall also comply the applicable requirements of the 34 Pa. Code, as amended, the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC, and the Township Zoning and Subdivision and Land Development Ordinances.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See Chs. 26, Subdivision and Land Development, and 31, Zoning.
(e) 
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any kind to an existing structure, to an extent or amount of less than 50% of its market value, shall be elevated and/or floodproofed to the greatest extent possible. The applicant shall bear the burden of establishing its then-present market value of the existing structure pre- and post-modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement, demonstrated by an appraisal or a certification from a licensed real estate agent or other appropriate professional consultant with expertise as to the value of the same.
(f) 
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any kind that meets the definition of "cumulative substantial damage" shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of this chapter. The applicant shall bear the burden of establishing to the Floodplain Administrator the date, nature, costs and market value associated with establishing cumulative substantial damage. Moreover, any modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement relating to cumulative substantial damage must be commenced and completed within 12 months after the date of loss.