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 § 8-702 shall apply.
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.
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.
Within any floodway area/district (see § 8-402, Subsection 1A), 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 (see § 8-402, Subsection 1B), 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.
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any
kind that meets the definition of "cumulative substantial loss" shall
be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of this
chapter.