[Ord. 521, 2/3/2020]
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.
[Ord. 521, 2/3/2020]
1. 
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 identified floodplain area that would cause any increase in BFE. In A Area/District(s), BFEs are determined using the methodology in § 8-402(1)C.
B. 
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.
C. 
The above activity shall also address the requirements of 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401-405, as amended) and the 2015 IBC and the 2015 IRC or most recent revision thereof as adopted by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
D. 
Within any floodway area/district [See § 8-402(1)A], no new construction or development shall be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection regional office.
E. 
Within any AE Area/District without Floodway [See § 8-402(1)B], 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.
F. 
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.
G. 
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.