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.
The following provisions shall apply whenever any improvement
is made to an existing structure located within any identified floodplain
area:
1. 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 Area/District(s),
BFEs are determined using the methodology in § 8-402.3.
2. 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.
3. The above activity shall also
address the requirements of the 34 Pa. Code, as amended, and the 2009
IBC and the 2009 IRC.
4. Within any floodway area/district
(See § 8-402.1.), no new construction or development shall
be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department
of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
5. Within any AE Area/District without
floodway (See § 8-402.2.), 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.
6. 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.