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 § 139-31 shall apply.
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
BFE.
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 BFE 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 market value 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 address the requirements of the 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.
E.
Within any Floodway Area/District (See § 139-18A), no new construction or development shall be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
F.
Within any AE Area/District without floodway (See § 139-18B), 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.
