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 following
provisions apply.
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed
within any identified floodplain area that would cause any increase
in BFE. In A Areas/Districts, BFEs are determined using the methodology
provided in this chapter.
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any
kind to an existing structure to an extent or amount of 50% or more
of its market value shall constitute a substantial improvement and
shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of
this chapter.
The above activity shall also address the requirements of 34 Pa.
Code, as amended, and the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC or most recent
revision thereof as adopted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Within any Floodway Area/District, no new construction or development
shall be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the
Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
Within any AE Area/District without floodway, no new construction
or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward
from the top-of-bank of any watercourse, unless the appropriate permit
is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional
Office.
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.