[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
These regulations, in combination with the provisions of the
Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23 (UCC), and the New Jersey
Flood Hazard Area Control Act, N.J.A.C. 7:13 (FHACA), which provide
standards for the purpose of flood damage prevention and reduction,
shall be known as the Floodplain Management Regulations of the Borough
of Hopewell (hereinafter "these regulations").
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
These regulations, in combination with the flood provisions of the UCC and FHACA, shall apply to all proposed development in flood hazard areas established in §
14-2 of these regulations. Should these regulations differ from the requirements set forth in the UCC and/or FHAC, the most restrictive requirements shall govern.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The Borough adopts these regulations to comply with FEMA minimum
standards and the NJDEP's mandates to adopt the NJDEP's
"Riverine" model ordinance.
b. The purposes and objectives of these regulations are to promote the
public health, safety and general welfare and to minimize public and
private losses due to flood conditions in specific flood hazard areas
through the establishment of comprehensive regulations for management
of flood hazard areas, designed to:
1. Protect human life and health.
2. Prevent unnecessary disruption of commerce, access, and public service
during times of flooding.
3. Manage the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels and
shorelines.
4. Manage filling, grading, dredging and other development which may
increase flood damage or erosion potential.
5. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will
divert floodwater or increase flood hazards.
6. Contribute to improved construction techniques in the floodplain.
7. Minimize damage to public and private facilities and utilities.
8. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and
development of flood hazard areas.
9. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding.
10. Ensure that property owners, occupants, and potential owners are
aware of property located in flood hazard areas.
11. Minimize the need for future expenditure of public funds for flood
control projects and response to and recovery from flood events.
12. Meet the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program for
community participation set forth in 44 CFR 59.22.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Pursuant to the requirement established in the UCC, that the
Borough administer and enforce the State building codes, the Mayor
and Council do hereby acknowledge that the UCC contains certain provisions
that apply to the design and construction of buildings and structures
in flood hazard areas. Therefore, these regulations are intended to
be administered and enforced in conjunction with the UCC.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Improvements defined as ordinary building maintenance and minor work projects by the UCC including non-structural replacement-in-kind of windows, doors, cabinets, plumbing fixtures, decks, walls, partitions, new flooring materials, roofing, etc., shall be evaluated by the Floodplain Administrator through the Floodplain Development Permit to ensure compliance with the Substantial Damage and Substantial Improvement §
14-3.14 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The degree of flood protection required by these regulations
has been determined by FEMA and the NJDEP to be reasonable for regulatory
purposes and based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger
floods can and will occur. Flood heights may be increased by man-made
or natural causes. Enforcement of these regulations does not imply
that land outside the special flood hazard areas, or that uses permitted
within such flood hazard areas, will be free from flooding or flood
damage.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The provisions of these regulations shall not be deemed to nullify
any provisions of local, State, or Federal law. In the event the provisions
of these regulations differ from any provision of local, State or
Federal law governing flood damage prevention purposes, the most restrictive
standard shall govern.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. No person shall hereafter:
1. Perform any development in any flood hazard area without a Floodplain
Development Permit issued pursuant to these regulations; or
2. Perform any development activity that is in conflict with an issued
Floodplain Development Permit; or
3. Construct, relocate, extend, convert or alter a structure unless
in compliance with these regulations; or
4. Otherwise fail to comply with the applicable requirements of these
regulations.
b. Any person who fails to comply with the provisions of these regulations (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions) shall be in violation hereof and shall be subject to the penalties as set forth in §
14-8 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
These regulations supersede any other requirement of the Borough
Code in effect in flood hazard areas. However, these regulations are
not intended to repeal or abrogate any existing land development regulations,
stormwater management regulations, or building codes; except that,
in the event of a conflict between these regulations and any land
development regulation, stormwater management regulation, or building
code, the more restrictive shall govern.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
These regulations, in conjunction with the UCC, provide minimum
requirements for any development located in flood hazard areas, including
site improvements and installation of utilities; placement and replacement
of manufactured homes; placement of recreational vehicles; new construction
and alterations, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation or additions
of existing buildings and structures; substantial improvement of existing
buildings and structures, including repair of substantial damage;
installation of tanks; temporary structures and temporary or permanent
storage; utility and miscellaneous Group U buildings and structures;
and certain building work exempt from permit under the Uniform Construction
Code; and other buildings and development activities.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The Borough was accepted for participation in the National Flood
Insurance Program on February 15, 1978.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) floodplain management
regulations encourage that all Federal, State, and local regulations
that are more stringent than the minimum NFIP standards take precedence
in permitting decisions. The FHACA requires that the effective Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), most recent preliminary FEMA mapping and
flood studies, and NJDEP delineations be compared to determine the
most restrictive mapping. The FHACA also regulates unstudied flood
hazard areas in watersheds measuring 50 acres or greater in size and
most riparian zones in New Jersey. Because of these higher standards,
the regulated flood hazard area in New Jersey may be more expansive
and more restrictive than the FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area. Maps
and studies that establish flood hazard areas are on file at the Borough
of Hopewell Municipal Building, 88 East Broad Street, Hopewell, NJ
08525.
The following sources identify flood hazard areas in this jurisdiction
and must be considered when determining the Best Available Flood Hazard
Data Area:
1. Effective Flood Insurance Study. Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs)
identified by FEMA in a scientific and engineering report entitled
"Flood Insurance Study, Mercer County, New Jersey (All Jurisdictions)"
dated July 20, 2016 and the accompanying FIRMs identified in Table
14-2.2(a) whose effective date is July 20, 2016 are hereby adopted
by reference.
Table 14-2.2(a)
|
---|
Map Panel #
|
Effective Date
|
Suffix
|
Map Panel #
|
Suffix
|
---|
34021C0019
|
July 20, 2016
|
F
|
|
|
2. Federal Best Available Information. Hopewell Borough shall utilize
Federal flood information as listed in the table below that provides
more detailed hazard information, higher flood elevations, larger
flood hazard areas, and results in more restrictive regulations. This
information may include but is not limited to preliminary flood elevation
guidance from FEMA (such as Advisory Flood Hazard Area Maps, Work
Maps or Preliminary FIS and FIRM). Additional Federal Best Available
studies issued after the date of this chapter must also be considered.
These studies are listed on FEMA's Map Service Center. This information
shall be used for floodplain regulation purposes only.
Table 14-2.2(b)
|
---|
Map Panel #
|
Preliminary Date
|
Map Panel #
|
Preliminary Date
|
---|
None as of the date of this chapter
|
|
|
|
3. Other Best Available Data. The Borough shall utilize high water elevations
from flood events, groundwater flooding areas, studies by federal
or state agencies, or other information deemed appropriate by the
Borough. Other "best available information" may not be used which
results in less restrictive flood elevations, design standards, or
smaller flood hazard areas than the sources described in Tables 14-2.2(a)
and (b), above. This information shall be used for floodplain regulation
purposes only.
4. State Regulated Flood Hazard Areas. For State regulated waters, the NJDEP identifies the flood hazard area as the land, and the space above that land, which lies below the "Flood Hazard Area Design Flood Elevation", as defined in §
14-9, and as described in the New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act at N.J.A.C. 7:13. A FHACA flood hazard area exists along every regulated water that has a drainage area of 50 acres or greater. Such area may extend beyond the boundaries of the Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) as identified by FEMA. The following is a list of New Jersey State studied waters in this community under the FHACA, and their respective map identification numbers.
Table 14-2.2(d) List of State Studied Waters
|
---|
Name of Studied Water
|
File Name
|
Map Number
|
---|
Bedens Brook
|
SUPPVIII01
|
1
|
Bedens Brook
|
SUPPVIII02
|
2
|
Bedens Brook
|
SUPPVIII03
|
3
|
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The Local Design Flood Elevation (LDFE) is established in the flood hazard areas determined in §
14-2.2, above, using the Best Available Flood Hazard Data Area sources, and the Flood Hazard Area Control Act minimum Statewide elevation requirements for lowest floors in A zones, ASCE 24 requirements for critical facilities as specified by the building code, plus additional freeboard as specified by these regulations.
At a minimum, the LDFE shall be as follows:
1. For a delineated watercourse, the elevation associated with the Best Available Flood Hazard Data Area determined in §
14-2.2 above, plus one foot or as described by N.J.A.C. 7:13 of freeboard; or
2. For any undelineated watercourse (where mapping or studies described
in Tables 14-2.2(a) and (b) above are not available) that has a contributory
drainage area of 50 acres or more, the applicants must provide one
of the following to determine the Local Design Flood Elevation:
(a)
A copy of an unexpired NJDEP Flood Hazard Area Verification
plus one foot of freeboard and any additional freeboard as required
by ASCE 24; or
(b)
A determination of the Flood Hazard Area Design Flood Elevation using Method 5 or Method 6 (as described in N.J.A.C. 7:13) plus one foot of freeboard and any additional freeboard as required by ASCE 24. Any determination using these methods must be sealed and submitted according to §
14-5.2 to
14-5.3.
3. AO Zones - For Zone AO areas on the Borough's FIRM (or on preliminary
flood elevation guidance from FEMA), the Local Design Flood Elevation
is determined from the FIRM panel as the highest adjacent grade plus
the depth number specified plus one foot of freeboard. If no depth
number is specified, the Local Design Flood Elevation is three feet
above the highest adjacent grade.
4. Class IV Critical Facilities - For any proposed development of new
and substantially improved Flood Design Class IV Critical Facilities,
the Local Design Flood Elevation must be the higher of the 0.2% annual
chance (500-year) flood elevation or the Flood Hazard Area Design
Flood Elevation with an additional two feet of freeboard in accordance
with ASCE 24.
5. Class III Critical Facilities - For proposed development of new and
substantially improved Flood Design Class III Critical Facilities
in coastal high hazard areas, the Local Design Flood Elevation must
be the higher of the 0.2% annual chance (500-year) flood elevation
or the Flood Hazard Area Design Flood Elevation with an additional
one foot of freeboard in accordance with ASCE 24.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Borough Engineer is designated the Floodplain Administrator.
The Floodplain Administrator shall have the authority to delegate
performance of certain duties to other employees.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator is authorized and directed to administer the provisions of these regulations. The Floodplain Administrator shall have the authority to render interpretations of these regulations consistent with the intent and purpose of these regulations and to establish policies and procedures in order to clarify the application of its provisions. Such interpretations, policies and procedures shall be consistent with the intent and purpose of these regulations and the flood provisions of the building code and shall not have the effect of waiving specific requirements without the granting of a variance pursuant to §
14-7 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator shall coordinate with the Construction
Official to administer and enforce the flood provisions of the UCC.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The duties of the Floodplain Administrator shall include but
are not limited to:
a. Review all Floodplain Development Permit Applications submitted under these regulations to determine whether proposed development is located in flood hazard areas established in §
14-2.
b. Require development in flood hazard areas to be reasonably safe from
flooding and to be designed and constructed with methods, practices
and materials that minimize flood damage.
c. Interpret flood hazard area boundaries and provide available flood
elevation and flood hazard information.
d. Determine whether additional flood hazard data shall be obtained
or developed.
e. Review required certifications and documentation specified by these
regulations and the building code to determine that such certifications
and documentations are complete, which shall include, but not be limited
to Elevation Certificates, Floodproofing Certificates, hydrologic
and hydraulic engineering analyses, grading plans, site plans, etc.
f. Establish, in coordination with the Construction Official, written procedures for administering and documenting determinations of substantial improvement and substantial damage made pursuant to §
14-3.14 of these regulations.
g. Coordinate with the Construction Official and others to identify
and investigate damaged buildings located in flood hazard areas and
inform owners of the requirement to obtain permits for repairs.
h. Review requests submitted to the Construction Official seeking approval to modify the strict application of the flood load and flood resistant construction requirements of the UCC to determine whether such requests require consideration as a variance pursuant to §
14-7 of these regulations.
i. Require applicants who submit hydrologic and hydraulic engineering
analyses to support Floodplain Development Permit Applications to
submit to FEMA the data and information necessary to maintain the
FIRMs when the analyses propose to change base flood elevations, flood
hazard area boundaries, or floodway designations; such submissions
shall be made within six months of such data becoming available.
j. Require applicants who propose alteration of a watercourse to notify
adjacent jurisdictions and the NJDEP Bureau of Flood Engineering,
and to submit copies of such notifications to FEMA.
k. Inspect development in accordance with §
14-1.6 of these regulations and inspect flood hazard areas to determine if development is undertaken without issuance of permits.
l. Prepare comments and recommendations for consideration when applicants seek variances in accordance with §
14-1.7 of these regulations.
m. Issue notices of violations in accordance with §
14-8 of these regulations.
n. Notify FEMA when the corporate boundaries of the Borough of Hopewell
have been modified.
o. Permit Ordinary Maintenance and Minor Work in the regulated areas as set forth in §
14-2.2.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator and the applicant shall not use
changed flood hazard area boundaries or base flood elevations for
proposed buildings or developments unless the Floodplain Administrator
or applicant has applied for a Conditional Letter of Map Revision
(CLOMR) to the FIRM revision and has received the approval of FEMA.
A revision of the effective FIRM does not remove the related feature(s)
on a flood hazard area delineation that has been promulgated by the
NJDEP. A separate application must be made to the State pursuant to
N.J.A.C. 7:13 for revision of a flood hazard design flood elevation,
flood hazard area limit, floodway limit, and/or other related feature.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
It shall be the responsibility of the Floodplain Administrator
to assure that approval of a proposed development shall not be given
until proof that necessary permits have been granted by Federal or
State agencies having jurisdiction over such development, including
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. In the event of conflicting permit
requirements, the Floodplain Administrator must ensure that the most
restrictive floodplain management standards are reflected in permit
approvals.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. If design flood elevations are not specified, the Floodplain Administrator
is authorized to require the applicant to:
1. Obtain, review, and reasonably utilize data available from a Federal,
State, or other source, or
2. Determine the design flood elevation in accordance with accepted
hydrologic and hydraulic engineering techniques. Such analyses shall
be performed and sealed by a licensed professional engineer. Studies,
analyses, and computations shall be submitted in sufficient detail
to allow review and approval by the Floodplain Administrator. The
accuracy of data submitted for such determination shall be the responsibility
of the applicant.
It shall be the responsibility of the Floodplain Administrator to verify that the applicant's proposed Best Available Flood Hazard Data Area and the Local Design Flood Elevation in any development permit accurately applies the best available flood hazard data and methodologies for determining flood hazard areas and design elevations described in §§
14-2.2 and
14-2.3 respectively. This information shall be provided to the Construction Official and documented according to §
14-3.15.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Base Flood Elevations may increase or decrease resulting from
natural changes (e.g. erosion, accretion, channel migration, subsidence,
uplift) or man-made physical changes (e.g. dredging, filling, excavation)
affecting flooding conditions. As soon as practicable, but not later
than six months after the date of a man-made change or when information
about a natural change becomes available, the Floodplain Administrator
shall notify the Federal Insurance Administrator of the changes by
submitting technical or scientific data in accordance with 44 CFR
65.3. Such a submission is necessary so that upon confirmation of
those physical changes affecting flooding conditions, risk premium
rates and floodplain management requirements will be based upon current
data.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
In riverine flood hazard areas where design flood elevations
are specified but floodways have not been designated, the Floodplain
Administrator shall not permit any new construction, substantial improvement
or other development, including the placement of fill, unless the
applicant submits an engineering analysis prepared by a licensed professional
engineer that demonstrates that the cumulative effect of the proposed
development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated
flood hazard area encroachment, will not increase the design flood
elevation more than 0.2 feet at any point within the boundaries of
the Borough of Hopewell.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Prior to issuing a permit for any floodway encroachment, including
fill, new construction, substantial improvements and other development
or land-disturbing-activity, the Floodplain Administrator shall require
submission of a certification prepared by a licensed professional
engineer, along with supporting technical data, that demonstrates
that such development will not cause any increase in the base flood
level.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
A floodway encroachment that increases the level of the base
flood is authorized if the applicant has applied for a Conditional
Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) to the FIRM and has received the approval
of FEMA.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Prior to issuing a permit for any alteration or relocation of
any watercourse, the Floodplain Administrator shall require the applicant
to provide notification of the proposal to the appropriate authorities
of all adjacent government jurisdictions, as well as the NJDEP Bureau
of Flood Engineering and the Division of Land Resource Protection.
A copy of the notification shall be maintained in the permit records
and submitted to FEMA.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator shall require submission of an
engineering analysis prepared by a licensed professional engineer,
demonstrating that the flood-carrying capacity of the altered or relocated
portion of the watercourse will be maintained, neither increased nor
decreased. Such watercourses shall be maintained in a manner that
preserves the channel's flood-carrying capacity.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All development in Riparian Zones as described in N.J.A.C. 7:13
is prohibited by these regulations unless the applicant has received
an individual or general permit or has complied with the requirements
of a permit by rule or permit by certification from NJDEP Division
of Land Resource Protection prior to application for a floodplain
development permit and the project is compliant with all other Floodplain
Development provisions of these regulations. The width of the riparian
zone can range between 50 and 300 feet and is determined by the attributes
of the waterbody and designated in the New Jersey Surface Water Quality
Standards, N.J.A.C. 7:9B. The portion of the riparian zone located
outside of a regulated water is measured landward from the top of
bank. Applicants can request a verification of the riparian zone limits
or a permit applicability determination to determine State permit
requirements under N.J.A.C. 7:13 from the NJDEP Division of Land Resource
Protection.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. When buildings and structures are damaged due to any cause including
but not limited to man-made, structural, electrical, mechanical, or
natural hazard events, or are determined to be unsafe as described
in N.J.A.C. 5:23; and for applications for building permits to improve
buildings and structures, including alterations, movement, repair,
additions, rehabilitations, renovations, ordinary maintenance and
minor work, substantial improvements, repairs of substantial damage,
and any other improvement of or work on such buildings and structures,
the Floodplain Administrator, in coordination with the Construction
Official, shall:
1. Estimate the market value, or require the applicant to obtain a professional
appraisal prepared by a qualified independent appraiser, of the market
value of the building or structure before the start of construction
of the proposed work; in the case of repair, the market value of the
building or structure shall be the market value before the damage
occurred and before any repairs are made.
2. Determine and include the costs of all ordinary maintenance and minor work, as discussed in §
14-2.2, performed in the floodplain regulated by these regulations in addition to the costs of those improvements regulated by the Construction Official in substantial damage and substantial improvement calculations.
3. Compare the cost to perform the improvement, the cost to repair the
damaged building to its pre-damaged condition, or the combined costs
of improvements and repairs, where applicable, to the market value
of the building or structure.
4. Determine and document whether the proposed work constitutes substantial
improvement or repair of substantial damage.
5. Notify the applicant in writing when it is determined that the work
constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage
and that compliance with the flood resistant construction requirements
of the building code is required and notify the applicant in writing
when it is determined that work does not constitute substantial improvement
or repair of substantial damage. The Floodplain Administrator shall
also provide all letters documenting substantial damage and compliance
with flood resistant construction requirements of the building code
to the NJDEP Bureau of Flood Engineering.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
In addition to the requirements of the building code and these
regulations, and regardless of any limitation on the period required
for retention of public records, the Floodplain Administrator shall
maintain and permanently keep and make available for public inspection
all records that are necessary for the administration of these regulations
and the flood provisions of the Uniform Construction Code, including
Flood Insurance Studies, FIRMs; documents from FEMA that amend or
revise FIRMs; NJDEP delineations, records of issuance of permits and
denial of permits; records of ordinary maintenance and minor work,
determinations of whether proposed work constitutes substantial improvement
or repair of substantial damage; required certifications and documentation
specified by the Uniform Construction Code and these regulations including
as-built Elevation Certificates; notifications to adjacent communities,
FEMA, and the State related to alterations of watercourses; assurance
that the flood carrying capacity of altered waterways will be maintained;
documentation related to variances, including justification for issuance
or denial; and records of enforcement actions taken pursuant to these
regulations and the flood resistant provisions of the Uniform Construction
Code. The Floodplain Administrator shall also record the required
elevation, determination method, and base flood elevation source used
to determine the Local Design Flood Elevation in the Floodplain Development
Permit.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator, while acting for the jurisdiction
in good faith and without malice in the discharge of the duties required
by these regulations or other pertinent law or ordinance, shall not
thereby be rendered liable personally and is hereby relieved from
personal liability for any damage accruing to persons or property
as a result of any act or by reason of an act or omission in the discharge
of official duties. Any suit instituted against an officer or employee
because of an act performed by that officer or employee in the lawful
discharge of duties and under the provisions of these regulations
shall be defended by legal representative of the Borough until the
final termination of the proceedings. The Floodplain Administrator
shall not be liable for cost in any action, suit or proceeding that
is instituted in pursuance of the provisions of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Any person, owner or authorized agent who intends to conduct
any development in a flood hazard area shall first make application
to the Floodplain Administrator and shall obtain the required Floodplain
Development Permit. Depending on the nature and extent of proposed
development that includes a building or structure, the Floodplain
Administrator may determine that a Floodplain Development Permit or
approval is required in addition to any applicable permits.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The applicant shall file an application in writing on a form furnished
by the Floodplain Administrator. Such application shall:
1. Identify and describe the development to be covered by the Floodplain
Development Permit.
2. Describe the land on which the proposed development is to be conducted
by legal description, street address or similar description that will
readily identify and definitively locate the site.
3. Indicate the use and occupancy for which the proposed development
is intended.
4. Be accompanied by a plan and construction documents as specified in §
14-5 of these regulations, grading and filling plans and other information deemed appropriate by the Floodplain Administrator.
5. State the valuation of the proposed work, including the valuation
of ordinary maintenance and minor work.
6. Be signed by the applicant or the applicant's authorized agent.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Notwithstanding the issuance of a Floodplain Development Permit
under these regulations, the Floodplain Administrator shall be authorized
to (a) require the correction of errors in the documents and information
submitted as part of the Floodplain Development Permit Application
or in the Floodplain Development Permit itself and (b) prevent occupancy
or use of a structure or property which is in violation of these regulations
or other ordinances of the Borough.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
A Floodplain Development Permit shall become invalid if the
proposed development is not commenced within 180 days after its issuance,
or if the work authorized is suspended or abandoned for a period of
180 days after the work commences. Extensions shall be requested in
writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. The Floodplain Administrator
is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time,
for periods not more than 180 days each.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to suspend or revoke
a Floodplain Development Permit issued under these regulations wherever
the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate
or incomplete information, or in violation of any ordinance or code
of the Borough.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The plan or construction documents for any development subject to
the requirements of these regulations shall be drawn to scale and
shall include, as applicable to the proposed development:
1. Delineation of flood hazard areas, floodway boundaries and flood
zone(s), base flood elevation(s), and ground elevations when necessary
for review of the proposed development. For buildings that are located
in more than one flood hazard area, the elevation and provisions associated
with the most restrictive flood hazard area shall apply.
2. Where base flood elevations or floodway data are not included on the FIRM or in the Flood Insurance Study, they shall be established in accordance with §
14-5.2.
3. Where the parcel on which the proposed development will take place will have more than 50 lots or is larger than five acres and base flood elevations are not included on the FIRM or in the Flood Insurance Study, such elevations shall be established in accordance with §
14-5.2a3.
4. Location of the proposed activity and proposed structures, and locations
of existing buildings and structures.
5. Location, extent, amount, and proposed final grades of any filling,
grading, or excavation.
6. Where the placement of fill is proposed, the amount, type, and source
of fill material; compaction specifications; a description of the
intended purpose of the fill areas; and evidence that the proposed
fill areas are the minimum necessary to achieve the intended purpose.
The applicant shall provide an engineering certification confirming
that the proposal meets the flood storage displacement limitations
of N.J.A.C. 7:13.
7. Existing and proposed alignment of any proposed alteration of a watercourse.
8. Floodproofing certifications, Breakaway Wall Certifications, Operations
and Maintenance Plans, Warning and Evacuation Plans and other documentation
required pursuant to FEMA publications.
The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to waive the submission
of plans, construction documents, and other data that are required
by these regulations but that are not required to be prepared by a
registered design professional when it is found that the nature of
the proposed development is such that the review of such submissions
is not necessary to ascertain compliance.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Where flood hazard areas are delineated on the effective or preliminary
FIRM and base flood elevation data have not been provided, the applicant
shall consult with the Floodplain Administrator to determine whether
to:
1. Use the Approximation Method (Method 5) described in N.J.A.C. 7:13
in conjunction with Appendix 1 of the FHACA to determine the required
flood elevation.
2. Obtain, review, and reasonably utilize data available from a Federal,
State or other source when those data are deemed acceptable to the
Floodplain Administrator to reasonably reflect flooding conditions.
3. Determine the base flood elevation in accordance with accepted hydrologic
and hydraulic engineering techniques according to Method 6 as described
in N.J.A.C. 7:13. Such analyses shall be performed and sealed by a
licensed professional engineer.
Studies, analyses, and computations shall be submitted in sufficient
detail to allow review and approval by the Floodplain Administrator
prior to Floodplain Development Permit issuance. The accuracy of data
submitted for such determination shall be the responsibility of the
applicant. Where the data are to be used to support a Letter of Map
Change (LOMC) from FEMA, the applicant shall be responsible for satisfying
the submittal requirements and pay the processing fees.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. As applicable to the location and nature of the proposed development
activity, and in addition to the requirements of this section, the
applicant shall have the following analyses signed and sealed by a
licensed professional engineer for submission with the plan and construction
documents:
1. For development activities proposed to be located in a regulatory floodway, a floodway encroachment analysis that demonstrates that the encroachment of the proposed development will not cause any increase in base flood elevations; where the applicant proposes to undertake development activities that do increase base flood elevations, the applicant shall submit such analysis to FEMA as specified in §
14-5.4 of these regulations and shall submit the Conditional Letter of Map Revision, if issued by FEMA, with the plan and construction documents.
2. For development activities proposed to be located in a riverine flood
hazard area where base flood elevations are included in the FIS or
FIRM but floodways have not been designated, hydrologic and hydraulic
analyses that demonstrate that the cumulative effect of the proposed
development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated
flood hazard area encroachments will not increase the base flood elevation
more than 0.2 feet at any point within the jurisdiction. This requirement
does not apply in isolated flood hazard areas not connected to a riverine
flood hazard area or in flood hazard areas identified as Zone AO or
Zone AH.
3. For alteration of a watercourse, an engineering analysis prepared in accordance with standard engineering practices which demonstrates that the flood-carrying capacity of the altered or relocated portion of the watercourse will not be decreased, and certification that the altered watercourse shall be maintained, neither increasing nor decreasing the channel's flood-carrying capacity. The applicant shall submit the analysis to FEMA as specified in §
14-5.4 of these regulations. The applicant shall notify the chief executive officer of all affected adjacent jurisdictions, the NJDEP's Bureau of Flood Engineering and the Division of Land Resource Protection; and shall provide documentation of such notifications.
5. For analyses performed using Methods 5 and 6 (as described in N.J.A.C.
7:13) in flood hazard zones without base flood elevations (approximate
A zones).
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
When additional hydrologic, hydraulic or other engineering data,
studies, and additional analyses are submitted to support an application,
the applicant has the right to seek a Letter of Map Change (LOMC)
from FEMA to change the base flood elevations, change floodway boundaries,
or change boundaries of flood hazard areas shown on FIRMs, and to
submit such data to FEMA for such purposes. The analyses shall be
prepared by a licensed professional engineer in a format required
by FEMA. Submittal requirements and processing fees shall be the responsibility
of the applicant.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Development for which a permit is required pursuant to these
regulations shall be subject to inspection. Approval as a result of
an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation
of the provisions of these regulations or the building code. Inspections
presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of
these regulations or the building code or other ordinances shall not
be valid.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator shall inspect all development in
flood hazard areas authorized by issuance of Floodplain Development
Permits under these regulations. The Floodplain Administrator shall
inspect flood hazard areas from time to time to determine if development
has been or is being undertaken without issuance of a Floodplain Development
Permit.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The Construction Official shall make or cause to be made, inspections
for buildings and structures in flood hazard areas authorized by permit
in accordance with the UCC, N.J.A.C. 5:23.
1. Lowest floor elevation. Upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, certification of the elevation required in §
14-15.2 shall be submitted to the Construction Official on an Elevation Certificate.
2. Installation of attendant utilities (electrical, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, and other service equipment) and sanitary facilities elevated as discussed in §
14-15.2.
3. Final inspection. Prior to the final inspection, certification of the elevation required in §
14-15.2 shall be submitted to the Construction Official on an Elevation Certificate.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator shall inspect manufactured homes
that are installed or replaced in flood hazard areas to determine
compliance with the requirements of these regulations and the conditions
of the issued Floodplain Development Permit. Upon placement of a manufactured
home, certification of the elevation of the lowest floor shall be
submitted on an Elevation Certificate to the Floodplain Administrator
prior to the final inspection.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
An appeals committee consisting of the Borough Administrator and Mayor or Mayor's designee shall hear and decide requests for variances, as that term is defined specifically in these regulations. The appeals committee shall base any determination hereunder on technical justifications submitted by applicants, the considerations for issuance in §
14-7.5, the conditions of issuance set forth in §
14-7.6, and the comments and recommendations of the Floodplain Administrator and, as applicable, the Construction Official. The appeals committee may attach such conditions to variances as deemed necessary to further the purposes and objectives of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
A variance to the substantial improvement requirements of these
regulations is authorized provided that the repair or rehabilitation
of a historic structure is completed according to N.J.A.C. 5:23-6.33,
Section 1612 of the International Building Code and R322 of the International
Residential Code, the repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the
structure's continued designation as a historic structure, the
structure meets the definition of the historic structure as described
by these regulations, and the variance is the minimum necessary to
preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
A variance for a functionally dependent use, as said term is
defined in these regulations, is only authorized to be issued for
the construction or substantial improvement necessary for the conduct
of a functionally dependent use provided the variance is the minimum
necessary to allow the construction or substantial improvement, and
that all due consideration has been given to use of methods and materials
that minimize flood damage during the base flood and create no additional
threats to public safety.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
A variance shall not be issued for any proposed development in a floodway when any increase in flood levels would result during the base flood discharge, as evidenced by the applicable analysis and certification required in §
14-5.3(a) of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. In reviewing requests for variances, all technical evaluations, all
relevant factors, all other portions of these regulations, and the
following shall be considered:
1. The danger that materials and debris may be swept onto other lands
resulting in further injury or damage.
2. The danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage.
3. The susceptibility of the proposed development, including contents,
to flood damage and the effect of such damage on current and future
owners.
4. The importance of the services provided by the proposed development
to the community.
5. The availability of alternate locations for the proposed development
that are not subject to flooding or erosion and the necessity of a
waterfront location, where applicable.
6. The compatibility of the proposed development with existing and anticipated
development.
7. The relationship of the proposed development to the comprehensive
plan and floodplain management program for that area.
8. The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary
and emergency vehicles.
9. The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and debris
and sediment transport of the floodwater and the effects of wave action,
where applicable, expected at the site.
10. The costs of providing governmental services during and after flood
conditions including maintenance and repair of public utilities and
facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems, streets,
and bridges.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Variances shall only be issued upon:
1. Submission by the applicant of a showing of good and sufficient cause
that the unique characteristics of the size, configuration or topography
of the site limit compliance with any provision of these regulations
or renders the elevation standards of the building code inappropriate.
2. A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in
exceptional hardship due to the unique physical and topical conditions
of the land that render the lot undevelopable; this determination
shall not be related to the individual personal circumstances of the
applicant.
3. A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in
increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary
public expense, nor create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization
of the public or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.
4. A determination that the variance is the minimum necessary, considering
the flood hazard, to afford relief.
5. Notification to the applicant in writing over the signature of the
Floodplain Administrator that the issuance of a variance to construct
a structure below the base flood level will result in increased premium
rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as $25 for $100 of
insurance coverage, and that such construction below the base flood
level increases risks to life and property.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Any person undertaking any development or activity that is not consistent
with the requirements of these regulations shall be in violation hereof.
b. Any development in any flood hazard area that is being performed
without an issued Floodplain Development Permit or that is in conflict
with an issued Floodplain Development Permit shall be deemed a violation.
A building or structure without the documentation of elevation of
the lowest floor, other required design certifications, or other evidence
of compliance required by the building code is presumed to be a violation
until such time as that documentation is provided.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to serve notices
of violation or stop work orders to owners of property involved, to
the owner's agent, or to the person or persons doing the work
for development that is not within the scope of the UCC, but is regulated
by these regulations and that is determined to be a violation.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Any person who shall continue any work after having been served with a notice of violation or a stop work order, except such work as that person is directed to perform to remove or remedy a violation or unsafe condition, shall be subject to penalties as prescribed by §§
3-11 through 3.11.3 of the Borough Code, as appropriate.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Any person in violation of these regulations shall have an opportunity
to cure or abate the condition underlying the violation during a thirty-day
period and as set forth in the notice of violation or stop work order.
b. In the event the person fails to cure or abate such condition during the applicable thirty-day period, then the Floodplain Administrator may file a complaint returnable in Municipal Court to address same. Except as set forth immediately below in §
14-8.5, said person shall be subject to the penalties set forth in §§
3-11 through
3-11.3 of the Borough Code.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Any person who has unlawfully disposed of solid waste in a floodway
or floodplain in violation of these regulations or any of its requirements
shall upon conviction thereof be fined not less than $2,500 or up
to a maximum penalty by a fine not exceeding $10,000.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of these
regulations only, have the meanings shown herein, as required by FEMA
and the NJDEP. Other terms are defined in the UCC, N.J.A.C. 5:23,
and terms are defined where used in the International Residential
Code and International Building Code (rather than in the definitions
section). Where terms are not specifically defined in this section,
such terms shall have ordinarily accepted meanings such as the context
implies.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
100-YEAR FLOOD ELEVATION
Elevation of flooding having a 1% annual chance of being
equaled or exceeded in a given year which is also referred to as the
Base Flood Elevation.
500-YEAR FLOOD ELEVATION
Elevation of flooding having a 0.2% annual chance of being
equaled or exceeded in a given year.
A ZONES
Areas of Special Flood Hazard in which the elevation of the
surface water resulting from a flood that has a 1% annual chance of
equaling or exceeding the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) in any given
year shown on the FIRM zones A, AE, AH, A1-A30, AR, AR/A, AR/AE, AR/A1-A30,
AR/AH, and AR/AO.
AH ZONES
Areas subject to inundation by 1%-annual-chance shallow flooding
(usually areas of ponding) where average depths are between one and
three feet. Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) derived from detailed hydraulic
analyses are shown in this zone.
AO ZONES
Areas subject to inundation by 1%-annual-chance shallow flooding
(usually sheet flow on sloping terrain) where average depths are between
one and three feet.
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
Accessory structures are also referred to as appurtenant
structures. An accessory structure is a structure which is on the
same parcel of property as a principal structure and the use of which
is incidental to the use of the principal structure. For example,
a residential structure may have a detached garage or storage shed
for garden tools as accessory structures. Other examples of accessory
structures include gazebos, picnic pavilions, boathouses, small pole
barns, storage sheds, and similar buildings.
AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURE
A structure used solely for agricultural purposes in which
the use is exclusively in connection with the production, harvesting,
storage, drying, or raising of agricultural commodities, including
the raising of livestock. Communities must require that new construction
or substantial improvements of agricultural structures be elevated
or floodproofed to or above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) as any
other nonresidential building. Under some circumstances it may be
appropriate to wet-floodproof certain types of agricultural structures
when located in wide, expansive floodplains through issuance of a
variance. This should only be done for structures used for temporary
storage of equipment or crops or temporary shelter for livestock and
only in circumstances where it can be demonstrated that agricultural
structures can be designed in such a manner that results in minimal
damage to the structure and its contents and will create no additional
threats to public safety. New construction or substantial improvement
of livestock confinement buildings, poultry houses, dairy operations,
similar livestock operations and any structure that represents more
than a minimal investment must meet the elevation or dry-floodproofing
requirements of 44 CFR 60.3(c)(3).
ALTERATION OF A WATERCOURSE
A dam, impoundment, channel relocation, change in channel
alignment, channelization, or change in cross-sectional area of the
channel or the channel capacity, or any other form of modification
which may alter, impede, retard or change the direction and/or velocity
of the riverine flow of water during conditions of the base flood.
AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING
A designated Zone AO, AH, AR/AO or AR/AH on a community's
FIRM with a 1% or greater annual chance of flooding to an average
depth of one to three feet where a clearly defined channel does not
exist, where the path of flooding is unpredictable, and where velocity
flow may be evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or
sheet flow.
ASCE 7
The standard for the Minimum Design Loads for Buildings and
Other Structures, referenced by the building code and developed and
published by the American Society of Civil Engineers, Reston, VA.
which includes but is not limited to methodology and equations necessary
for determining structural and flood-related design requirements and
determining the design requirements for structures that may experience
a combination of loads including those from natural hazards. Flood
related equations include those for determining erosion, scour, lateral,
vertical, hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, buoyancy, breaking wave, and
debris impact.
ASCE 24
The standard for Flood Resistant Design and Construction,
referenced by the building code and developed and published by the
American Society of Civil Engineers, Reston, VA. References to ASCE
24 shall mean ASCE 24-14 or the most recent version of ASCE 24 adopted
in the UCC, N.J.A.C. 5:23.
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE)
The water surface elevation resulting from a flood that has
a 1% or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year,
as shown on a published Flood Insurance Study (FIS), or preliminary
flood elevation guidance from FEMA. May also be referred to as the
"100-year flood elevation."
BASEMENT
Any area of a building having its floor subgrade (below ground
level) on all sides.
BEST AVAILABLE FLOOD HAZARD DATA
The Best Available Flood Hazard Data may be depicted on but
not limited to Advisory Flood Hazard Area Maps, Work Maps, or Preliminary
FIS and FIRM.
BEST AVAILABLE FLOOD HAZARD DATA AREA
The Best Available Flood Hazard Data may be depicted on but
not limited to Advisory Flood Hazard Area Maps, Work Maps, or Preliminary
FIS and FIRM.
BREAKAWAY WALLS
Any type of wall subject to flooding that is not required
to provide structural support to a building or other structure and
that is designed and constructed such that, below the Local Design
Flood Elevation, it will collapse under specific lateral loads such
that (a) it allows the free passage of floodwaters, and (b) it does
not damage the structure or supporting foundation system.
BUILDING
Per the FHACA, "Building" means a structure enclosed with
exterior walls or fire walls, erected and framed of component structural
parts, designed for the housing, shelter, enclosure, and support of
individuals, animals, or property of any kind. A building may have
a temporary or permanent foundation. A building that is intended for
regular human occupation and/or residence is considered a habitable
building.
CONDITIONAL LETTER OF MAP REVISION OR CLOMR
A Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) is FEMA's
comment on a proposed project that would, upon construction, affect
the hydrologic or hydraulic characteristics of a flooding source and
thus result in the modification of the existing regulatory floodway,
the effective Base Flood Elevations (BFEs), or the Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA). A CLOMR does not revise an effective NFIP map; rather,
it indicates whether the project, if built as proposed, would be recognized
by FEMA. FEMA charges a fee for processing a CLOMR to recover the
costs associated with the review that is described in the Letter of
Map Change (LOMC) process. Building permits cannot be issued based
on a CLOMR, because a CLOMR does not change the NFIP map.
CRITICAL BUILDING
Per the FHACA, "Critical Building" means that:
a.
It is essential to maintaining continuity of vital government
operations and/or supporting emergency response, sheltering, and medical
care functions before, during, and after a flood, such as a hospital,
medical clinic, police station, fire station, emergency response center,
or public shelter; or
b.
It serves large numbers of people who may be unable to leave
the facility through their own efforts, thereby hindering or preventing
safe evacuation of the building during a flood event, such as a school,
college, dormitory, jail or detention facility, day care center, assisted
living facility, or nursing home.
DEVELOPMENT
Any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to, buildings or other structures, tanks,
temporary structures, temporary or permanent storage of materials,
mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavations, drilling
operations and other land-disturbing activities.
DRY FLOODPROOFING
A combination of measures that results in a non-residential
structure, including the attendant utilities and equipment as described
in the latest version of ASCE 24, being watertight with all elements
substantially impermeable and with structural components having the
capacity to resist flood loads.
ELEVATED BUILDING
A building that has no basement and that has its lowest elevated
floor raised above ground level by foundation walls, shear walls,
posts, piers, pilings, or columns.
ELEVATION CERTIFICATE
An administrative tool of the National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) that can be used to provide elevation information, to determine
the proper insurance premium rate, and to support an application for
a Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) or Letter of Map Revision based on
fill (LOMR-F).
ENCROACHMENT
The placement of fill, excavation, buildings, permanent structures
or other development into a flood hazard area which may impede or
alter the flow capacity of riverine flood hazard areas.
FEMA PUBLICATIONS
Any publication authored or referenced by FEMA related to
building science, building safety, or floodplain management related
to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Publications shall
include but are not limited to technical bulletins, desk references,
and American Society of Civil Engineers Standards documents including
ASCE 24.
FLOOD HAZARD AREA DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION
Per the FHACA, the peak water surface elevation that will
occur in a water during the flood hazard area design flood. This elevation
is determined via available flood mapping adopted by the State, flood
mapping published by FEMA (including effective flood mapping dated
on or after January 31, 1980, or any more recent advisory, preliminary,
or pending flood mapping; whichever results in higher flood elevations,
wider floodway limits, greater flow rates, approximation, or calculation
pursuant to the Flood Hazard Area Control Act Rules at N.J.A.C. 7:13-3.1
through 7:13-3.6 and is typically higher than FEMA's base flood
elevation. A water that has a drainage area measuring less than 50
acres does not possess, and is not assigned, a flood hazard area design
flood elevation.
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP OR FIRM
The official map on which FEMA has delineated both the areas
of special flood hazards and the risk premium zones applicable to
the community.
FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY (FIS)
The official report in which FEMA has provided flood profiles,
as well as the FIRM(s) and the water surface elevation of the base
flood.
FLOOD or FLOODING
a.
A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation
of normally dry land areas from:
1.
The overflow of inland or tidal waters.
2.
The unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters
from any source.
3.
Mudslides (i.e. mudflows) which are proximately caused by flooding
as defined in paragraph a2 of this definition and are akin to a river
or liquid and flowing mud on the surfaces of normally dry land areas,
as when earth is carried by a current of water and deposited along
the path of the current.
b.
The collapse or subsidence of land along the shore of a lake
or other body of water as a result of erosion or undermining caused
by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical levels
or suddenly caused by an unusually high water level in a natural body
of water, accompanied by a severe storm, or by an unanticipated force
of nature, such as flash flood or an abnormal tidal surge, or by some
similarly unusual and unforeseeable event which results in flooding
as defined in paragraph a1 of this definition.
FLOODPROOFING
Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood
damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary
facilities, structures, and their contents.
FLOODPROOFING CERTIFICATE
Certification by a licensed design professional that the
design and methods of construction for floodproofing a non-residential
structure are in accordance with accepted standards of practice to
a proposed height above the structure's lowest adjacent grade
that meets or exceeds the Local Design Flood Elevation. A completed
floodproofing certificate is required with the Floodplain Development
Permit application submitted under these regulations.
FLOODWAY
The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent
land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood
without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than
0.2 foot.
FREEBOARD
A factor of safety usually expressed in feet above a flood
level for purposes of floodplain management. "Freeboard" tends to
compensate for the many unknown factors that could contribute to flood
heights greater than the height calculated for a selected size flood
and floodway conditions, such as wave action, bridge openings, and
the hydrological effect of urbanization of the watershed.
FUNCTIONALLY DEPENDENT USE
A use that cannot perform its intended purpose unless it
is located or carried out in close proximity to water, including only
docking facilities, port facilities necessary for the loading or unloading
of cargo or passengers, and shipbuilding and ship repair facilities.
The term does not include long-term storage or related manufacturing
facilities.
HABITABLE BUILDING
Pursuant to the FHACA Rules (N.J.A.C. 7:13), means a building
that is intended for regular human occupation and/or residence. Examples
of a habitable building include a single-family home, duplex, multi-residence
building, or critical building; a commercial building such as a retail
store, restaurant, office building, or gymnasium; an accessory structure
that is regularly occupied, such as a garage, barn, or workshop; mobile
and manufactured homes, and trailers intended for human residence,
which are set on a foundation and/or connected to utilities, such
as in a mobile home park (not including campers and recreational vehicles);
and any other building that is regularly occupied, such as a house
of worship, community center, or meeting hall, or animal shelter that
includes regular human access and occupation. Examples of a non-habitable
building include a bus stop shelter, utility building, storage shed,
self-storage unit, construction trailer, or an individual shelter
for animals such as a doghouse or outdoor kennel.
HARDSHIP
For purposes of these regulations only, hardship shall refer
to the exceptional hardship that would result from a failure to grant
the requested variance, as said term is defined herein. A hardship
shall be exceptional, unusual, and peculiar to the property involved.
Mere economic or financial hardship alone shall not qualify as a hardship.
Inconvenience, aesthetic considerations, physical handicaps, personal
preferences, or the disapproval of one's neighbors likewise shall
not qualify as a hardship. A problem or concern that can be resolved
through other means without granting a variance, even if the alternative
is more expensive, or requires the property owner to build elsewhere
or put the parcel to a different use than originally intended, shall
not be deemed a hardship.
HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE
The highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior
to construction next to the proposed or existing walls of a structure.
HISTORIC STRUCTURE
Any structure that is:
a.
Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places
(a listing maintained by the Department of Interior) or preliminarily
determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements
for individual listing on the National Register;
b.
Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the
Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered
historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary
to qualify as a registered historic district;
c.
Individually listed on a State inventory of historic places
in States with historic preservation programs which have been approved
by the Secretary of the Interior; or
d.
Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places
in communities with historic preservation programs that have been
certified either:
1.
By an approved State program as determined by the Secretary
of the Interior; or
2.
Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in States without
approved programs.
LAWFULLY EXISTING
Per the FHACA, means an existing fill, structure and/or use,
which meets all Federal, State, and local laws, and which is not in
violation of the FHACA because it was established:
a.
Prior to January 31, 1980; or
b.
On or after January 31, 1980, in accordance with the requirements
of the FHACA as it existed at the time the fill, structure and/or
use was established.
Note: Substantially damaged properties and substantially improved
properties that have not been elevated are not considered "lawfully
existing" for the purposes of the NFIP. This definition is included
in these regulations to clarify the applicability of any more stringent
statewide floodplain management standards required under the FHACA.
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LETTER OF MAP AMENDMENT OR LOMA
A Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) is an official amendment,
by letter, to an effective National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
map that is requested through the Letter of Map Change (LOMC) process.
A LOMA establishes a property's location in relation to the Special
Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). LOMAs are usually issued because a property
has been inadvertently mapped as being in the floodplain but is actually
on natural high ground above the base flood elevation. Because a LOMA
officially amends the effective NFIP map, it is a public record that
the Borough must maintain. Any LOMA shall be noted on the Borough's
master flood map and filed by panel number in an accessible location.
LETTER OF MAP REVISION - FILL (LOMR-F)
A Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F) is FEMA's
modification of the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) shown on the
FIRM based on the placement of fill outside the existing regulatory
floodway may be initiated through the Letter of Map Change (LOMC)
Process. Because a LOMR-F officially revises the effective FIRM, it
is a public record that the Borough must maintain. Any LOMR-F shall
be noted on the Borough's master flood map and filed by panel
number in an accessible location.
LETTER OF MAP REVISION OR LOMR
A Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) is FEMA's modification
to an effective FIRM. Letter of Map Revisions are generally based
on the implementation of physical measures that affect the hydrologic
or hydraulic characteristics of a flooding source and thus result
in the modification of the existing regulatory floodway, the effective
Base Flood Elevations (BFEs), or the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA).
The LOMR officially revises the FIRM and sometimes the Flood Insurance
Study (FIS) report, and when appropriate, includes a description of
the modifications. The LOMR is generally accompanied by an annotated
copy of the affected portions of the FIRM or FIS report. Because a
LOMR officially revises the effective NFIP map, it is a public record
that the Borough must maintain. Any LOMR shall be noted on the Borough's
master flood map and filed by panel number in an accessible location.
LICENSED DESIGN PROFESSIONAL
Licensed design professional shall refer to either a New
Jersey Licensed Professional Engineer licensed by the New Jersey State
Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors or a New Jersey
Licensed Architect licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Architects.
LICENSED PROFESSIONAL ENGINEER
A licensed professional engineer shall refer to individuals
licensed by the New Jersey State Board of Professional Engineers and
Land Surveyors.
LOCAL DESIGN FLOOD ELEVATION (LDFE)
The elevation reflective of the most recent available preliminary
flood elevation guidance FEMA has provided as depicted on but not
limited to Advisory Flood Hazard Area Maps, Work Maps, or Preliminary
FIS and FIRM which is also inclusive of freeboard specified by the
New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act and Uniform Construction
Codes and any additional freeboard specified in these regulations.
In no circumstances shall a project's LDFE be lower than a permit-specified
Flood Hazard Area Design Flood Elevation or a valid NJDEP Flood Hazard
Area Verification Letter plus the freeboard as required in ASCE 24
and the effective FEMA Base Flood Elevation.
LOWEST ADJACENT GRADE
The lowest point of ground, patio, or sidewalk slab immediately
next a structure, except in AO Zones where it is the natural grade
elevation.
LOWEST FLOOR
In A Zones, the lowest floor is the top surface of the lowest
floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished
or flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for the parking of vehicles,
building access or storage in an area other than a basement is not
considered a building's lowest floor provided that such enclosure
is not built so as to render the structure in violation of other applicable
non-elevation design requirements of these regulations.
MANUFACTURED HOME
A structure that is transportable in one or more sections,
eight feet or more in width and greater than 400 square feet, built
on a permanent chassis, designed for use with or without a permanent
foundation when attached to the required utilities, and constructed
to the Federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards
and rules and regulations promulgated by the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development. The term also includes mobile homes, park trailers,
travel trailers and similar transportable structures that are placed
on a site for 180 consecutive days or longer.
MARKET VALUE
The price at which a property will change hands between a
willing buyer and a willing seller, neither party being under compulsion
to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.
As used in these regulations, the term refers to the market value
of buildings and structures, excluding the land and other improvements
on the parcel. Market value shall be determined by one of the following
methods (1) Actual Cash Value (replacement cost depreciated for age
and quality of construction), (2) tax assessment value adjusted to
approximate market value by a factor provided by the Property Appraiser,
or (3) established by a qualified independent appraiser.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Structures for which the start of construction commenced
on or after the effective date of the first floodplain regulation
adopted by the Borough; includes any subsequent improvements to such
structures. New construction includes work determined to be a substantial
improvement.
NON-RESIDENTIAL
Pursuant to ASCE 24, any building or structure or portion
thereof that is not classified as residential.
ORDINARY MAINTENANCE AND MINOR WORK
This term refers to types of work excluded from construction
permitting under N.J.A.C. 5:23, published in the March 5, 2018 New
Jersey Register. Some of these types of work must be considered in
determinations of substantial improvement and substantial damage in
regulated floodplains under 44 CFR 59.1. These types of work include
but are not limited to replacements of roofing, siding, interior finishes,
kitchen cabinets, plumbing fixtures and piping, HVAC and air conditioning
equipment, exhaust fans, built in appliances, electrical wiring, etc.
Improvements necessary to correct existing violations of State or
local health, sanitation, or code enforcement officials which are
the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions and improvements
of historic structures as discussed in 44 CFR 59.1 shall not be included
in the determination of ordinary maintenance and minor work.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A vehicle that is built on a single chassis, 400 square feet
or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection, designed
to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty truck,
and designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as
temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal
use. A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its
wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect
type utilities and security devices and has no permanently attached
additions.
RESIDENTIAL
Pursuant to the ASCE 24:
a.
Buildings and structures and portions thereof where people live
or that are used for sleeping purposes on a transient or non-transient
basis;
b.
Structures including but not limited to one- and two-family
dwellings, townhouses, condominiums, multi-family dwellings, apartments,
congregate residences, boarding houses, lodging houses, rooming houses,
hotels, motels, apartment buildings, convents, monasteries, dormitories,
fraternity houses, sorority houses, vacation time-share properties;
and
c.
Institutional facilities where people are cared for or live
on a twenty-four-hour basis in a supervised environment, including
but not limited to board and care facilities, assisted living facilities,
halfway houses, group homes, congregate care facilities, social rehabilitation
facilities, alcohol and drug centers, convalescent facilities, hospitals,
nursing homes, mental hospitals, detoxification facilities, prisons,
jails, reformatories, detention centers, correctional centers, and
prerelease centers.
SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL
The storage, treatment, utilization, processing or final
disposition of solid waste as described in N.J.A.C. 7:26-1.6 or the
storage of unsecured materials as described in N.J.A.C. 7:13-2.3 for
a period of greater than six months as specified in N.J.A.C. 7:26
which have been discharged, deposited, injected, dumped, spilled,
leaked, or placed into any land or water such that such solid waste
may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged
into any waters, including groundwaters.
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA
The greater of the following: (a) Land in the floodplain
within a community subject to a 1% or greater chance of flooding in
any given year, shown on the FIRM as Zone V, VE, V1-3, A, AO, A1-30,
AE, A99, or AH; (b) Land and the space above that land, which lies
below the peak water surface elevation of the flood hazard area design
flood for a particular water, as determined using the methods set
forth in the New Jersey Flood Hazard Area Control Act in N.J.A.C.
7:13; and (c) Riparian Buffers as determined in the New Jersey Flood
Hazard Area Control Act in N.J.A.C. 7:13. Also referred to as the
"area of special flood hazard."
START OF CONSTRUCTION
The Start of Construction is as follows:
a.
For other than new construction or substantial improvements,
this is the date the building permit was issued, provided that the
actual start of construction, repair, rehabilitation, addition, placement
or other improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual
start means either the first placement of permanent construction of
a building on site, such as the pouring of a slab or footing, the
installation of piles, the construction of columns or any work beyond
the stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured (mobile)
home on a foundation. For a substantial improvement, actual start
of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor,
or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration
affects the external dimensions of the building.
b.
For the purposes of determining whether proposed construction
must meet new requirements when National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
maps are issued or revised and Base Flood Elevation's (BFEs)
increase or zones change, the Start of Construction includes substantial
improvement, and means the date the building permit was issued, provided
the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation,
addition placement, or other improvement was within 180 days of the
permit date. The actual start means either the first placement of
permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring
of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of
columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement
of a manufactured home on a foundation.
Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such
as clearing, grading, and filling, nor does it include the installation
of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement,
footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms;
nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory
buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units
or not part of the main structure. Such development must also be permitted
and must meet new requirements when National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP) maps are issued or revised and Base Flood Elevation's
(BFEs) increase or zones change.
|
For a substantial improvement, the actual start of construction
means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural
part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external
dimensions of the building.
|
STRUCTURE
A walled and roofed building, a manufactured home, or a gas
or liquid storage tank that is principally above ground.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
Damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the
cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would
equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the structure before the
damage occurred.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement
of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the market
value of the structure before the "start of construction" of the improvement.
This term includes structures which have incurred "substantial damage,"
regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not,
however, include either:
a.
Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing
violations of State or local health, sanitary or safety code specifications
which have been identified by the local code enforcement officer and
which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions;
or
b.
Any alteration of a "historic structure," provided that the
alteration will not preclude the structure's continued designation
as a "historic structure."
VARIANCE
A grant of relief from the requirements of these regulations
which permits construction in a manner otherwise prohibited by these
regulations where specific enforcement would result in a hardship
as that term is defined in this chapter. The term "variance" as defined
herein shall not be deemed to refer to variances granted pursuant
to and governed by the Municipal Land Use Law, N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et
seq.
VIOLATION
The failure to comply with any provision of this chapter
shall constitute a violation hereof. A violation shall include, but
not be limited to, a development that is not fully compliant with
these regulations or the flood provisions of the building code. In
addition, a structure or other development without the required Floodplain
Development Permit, elevation certificate, other certifications, or
other evidence of compliance required in these regulations is presumed
to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.
WATER SURFACE ELEVATION
The height, in relation to the North American Vertical Datum
(NAVD) of 1988, or other datum, where specified, of floods of various
magnitudes and frequencies in the flood plains of riverine areas.
WATERCOURSE
A river, creek, stream, channel, or other topographic feature
in, on, through, or over which water flows at least periodically.
WET FLOODPROOFING
A floodproofing method that relies on the use of flood damage
resistant materials and construction techniques in areas of a structure
that are below the Local Design Flood Elevation by intentionally allowing
them to flood. The application of wet floodproofing as a flood protection
technique under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is limited
to enclosures below elevated residential and non-residential structures
and to accessory and agricultural structures that have been issued
variances by the community.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Any development proposal, including proposals for manufactured home
parks, subdivisions involving residential or non-residential development,
or other proposed new development in a flood hazard area shall be
reviewed to assure that:
1. All such proposals are consistent with the need to minimize flood
damage.
2. All public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electric
and water systems are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate
flood damage.
3. Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards;
in Zones AH and AO, adequate drainage paths shall be provided to guide
floodwater around and away from structures.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Where any portion of the proposed development, including manufactured
home parks and subdivisions involving residential or non-residential
development, lies within a flood hazard area, the following shall
be required:
1. The flood hazard area, including floodways and base flood elevations,
as appropriate, shall be delineated on tentative subdivision plats.
2. Residential building lots shall be provided with adequate buildable
area outside the floodway.
3. The design criteria for utilities and facilities set forth in these
regulations and appropriate codes shall be met.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Development, land disturbing activity, and encroachments in floodways shall not be authorized unless it has been demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses required in accordance with §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations, that the proposed encroachment will not result in any increase in the base flood level during occurrence of the base flood discharge. If §
14-5.3(a) is satisfied, proposed elevation, addition, or reconstruction of a lawfully existing structure within a floodway shall also be in accordance with §
14-15 of these regulations and the floodway requirements of N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. The following are prohibited activities in floodways:
1.
The storage of unsecured materials, pursuant to N.J.A.C. 7:13.
2.
The placement of fill and construction of new structures, pursuant
to N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All new and replaced sanitary sewer facilities, private sewage treatment plants (including all pumping stations and collector systems) and on-site waste disposal systems shall be designed in accordance with the New Jersey septic system regulations contained in N.J.A.C. 14 and N.J.A.C. 7:9A, the Uniform Construction Code Plumbing Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23) and Chapter
7, ASCE 24, to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwater into the facilities and discharge from the facilities into flood waters, or impairment of the facilities and systems.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All new and replacement water facilities shall be designed in accordance with the New Jersey Safe Drinking Water Act (N.J.A.C. 7:10) and the provisions of Chapter
7 ASCE 24, to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwater into the systems.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Storm drainage shall be designed to convey the flow of surface
waters to minimize or eliminate damage to persons or property.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Streets and sidewalks shall be designed to minimize potential
for increasing or aggravating flood levels.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Subject to the limitations of these regulations, fill shall
be designed to be stable under conditions of flooding including rapid
rise and rapid drawdown of floodwater, prolonged inundation, and protection
against flood-related erosion and scour. In addition to these requirements,
when intended to support buildings and structures (Zone A only), fill
shall comply with the requirements of the UCC (N.J.A.C. 5:23). Proposed
fill and encroachments in flood hazard areas shall comply with the
flood storage displacement limitations of N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The placement or storage of any containers holding hazardous
substances in a flood hazard area is prohibited unless the provisions
of N.J.A.C. 7:13 which cover the placement of hazardous substances
and solid waste is met.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Where otherwise permitted by ordinance or land use approval,
all manufactured homes installed in flood hazard areas shall be installed
pursuant to the Nationally Preemptive Manufactured Home Construction
and Safety Standards Program (24 CFR 3280).
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All new, relocated, and replacement manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved in a flood hazard area shall be elevated such that the bottom of the frame is elevated to or above the elevation specified in §
14-15.2.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All new, relocated, and replacement manufactured homes, including
substantial improvement of existing manufactured homes, shall be placed
on foundations as specified by the manufacturer only if the manufacturer's
installation instructions specify that the home has been designed
for flood-resistant considerations and provides the conditions of
applicability for velocities, depths, or wave action as required by
24 CFR Part 3285-302. The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to
determine whether the design meets or exceeds the performance necessary
based upon the proposed site location conditions as a precondition
of issuing a flood damage prevention permit. If the Floodplain Administrator
determines that the home's performance standards will not withstand
the flood loads in the proposed location, the applicant must propose
a design certified by a New Jersey licensed design professional and
in accordance with 24 CFR 3285.301(c) and (d) which conforms with
ASCE 24, the accepted standard of engineering practice for flood resistant
design and construction.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
All new, relocated, and replacement manufactured homes to be
placed or substantially improved in a flood hazard area shall be installed
using methods and practices which minimize flood damage and shall
be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to
resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement. This requirement
is in addition to applicable State and local anchoring requirements
for resisting wind forces.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Fully enclosed areas below elevated manufactured homes shall comply with the requirements of §
14-15.2.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Except as provided in paragraph b of this §
14-12.6, mechanical equipment and outside appliances shall be elevated to or above the elevation of the bottom of the frame required in §
14-15.2 of these regulations.
b. Exception. Where such equipment and appliances are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within their components and the systems are constructed to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding up to the elevation required by §
14-15.2, the systems and equipment shall be permitted to be located below that elevation. Electrical wiring systems shall be permitted below the design flood elevation provided they conform to the provisions of NFPA 70 (National Electric Code).
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
The placement of a recreational vehicle shall not be authorized
on any site located in a floodway.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Any recreational vehicles placed on a site in a flood hazard
area shall be fully licensed and ready for highway use and shall not
remain on that site for 180 consecutive days or more.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Any recreational vehicles placed on a site that is not fully licensed and ready for highway use, or that is to be remain on that site for more than 180 consecutive days, shall meet the requirements of §
14-15.2 for habitable buildings.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Underground and above-ground tanks subject to these regulations
shall be designed, constructed, installed, and anchored in accordance
with ASCE 24 and N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. All development and building work, including man-made changes to
improved or unimproved real property for which specific provisions
are not set forth in these regulations or the UCC (N.J.A.C. 5:23),
shall:
1. Be located and constructed to minimize flood damage;
2. Meet the limitations of §
14-5.3a1. of these regulations when located in a regulated floodway;
3. Be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during the conditions of flooding up to the Local Design Flood Elevation determined according to §
14-2.3;
4. Be constructed of flood damage-resistant materials as described in ASCE 24 Chapter
5;
5. Have mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems above the Local Design Flood Elevation determined according to §
14-2.3 or meet the requirements of ASCE 24 Chapter
7 which requires that attendant utilities are located above the Local Design Flood Elevation unless the attendant utilities and equipment are:
(a)
Specifically allowed below the Local Design Flood Elevation;
and
(b)
Designed, constructed, and installed to prevent floodwaters,
including any backflow through the system from entering or accumulating
within the components;
6. Not exceed the flood storage displacement limitations in fluvial
flood hazard areas in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:13; and
7. Not exceed the impacts to frequency or depth of offsite flooding
as required by N.J.A.C. 7:13 in floodways.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Construction and Elevation in A Zones not including Coastal A Zones.
3. All new construction and substantial improvement of any habitable building (as defined in §
14-9.2) located in flood hazard areas shall have the lowest floor, including basement, together with the attendant utilities (including all electrical, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and other service equipment) and sanitary facilities, elevated to or above the Local Design Flood Elevation as determined in §
14-2.3, be in conformance with ASCE Chapter
7, and be confirmed by an Elevation Certificate.
4. All new construction and substantial improvements of non-residential
structures shall:
(a)
Have the lowest floor, including basement, together with the attendant utilities (including all electrical, heating, ventilating, air-conditioning and other service equipment) and sanitary facilities, elevated to or above the Local Design Flood Elevation as determined in §
14-2.3, be in conformance with ASCE Chapter
7, and be confirmed by an Elevation Certificate; or
(b)
Together with the attendant utility and sanitary facilities,
be designed so that below the Local Design Flood Elevation, the structure:
(1)
Meets the requirements of ASCE 24 Chapters
2 and
7; and
(2)
Is constructed according to the design plans and specifications
provided at permit application and signed by a licensed design professional,
is certified by that individual in a Floodproofing Certificate, and
is confirmed by an Elevation Certificate.
5. All new construction and substantial improvements with fully enclosed
areas below the lowest floor shall be used solely for parking of vehicles,
building access, or storage in an area other than a basement and which
are subject to flooding. Enclosures shall:
(a)
For habitable structures, be situated at or above the adjoining
exterior grade along at least one entire exterior wall, in order to
provide positive drainage of the enclosed area in accordance with
N.J.A.C. 7:13; enclosures (including crawlspaces and basements) which
are below grade on all sides are prohibited;
(b)
Be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters unless the structure is non-residential and the requirements of §
14-15.2a4(b) are met;
(c)
Be constructed to meet the requirements of ASCE 24 Chapter
2;
(d)
Have openings documented on an Elevation Certificate; and
(e)
Have documentation that a deed restriction has been obtained
for the lot if the enclosure is greater than six feet in height. This
deed restriction shall be recorded in the Office of the County Clerk
or the Registrar of Deeds and Mortgages in which the building is located,
shall conform to the requirements in N.J.A.C. 7:13, and shall be recorded
within 90 days of receiving a Flood Hazard Area Control Act permit
or prior to the start of any site disturbance (including pre-construction
earth movement, removal of vegetation and structures, or construction
of the project), whichever is sooner. Deed restrictions must explain
and disclose that:
(1)
The enclosure is likely to be inundated by floodwaters which
may result in damage and/or inconvenience.
(2)
The depth of flooding that the enclosure would experience to
the Flood Hazard Area Design Flood Elevation.
(3)
The deed restriction prohibits habitation of the enclosure and
explains that converting the enclosure into a habitable area may subject
the property owner to enforcement.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Accessory structures shall be designed and constructed in accordance
with the UCC.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Fences in floodways that have the potential to block the passage of floodwater, such as stockade fences and wire mesh fences, shall meet the requirements of §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations. Pursuant to N.J.A.C. 7:13, any fence located in a floodway shall have sufficiently large openings so as not to catch debris during a flood and thereby obstruct floodwaters, such as barbed-wire, split-rail, or strand fence. A fence with little or no open area, such as a chain link, lattice, or picket fence, does not meet this requirement. Foundations for fences greater than six feet in height must conform with the UCC. Fences for pool enclosures having openings not in conformance with this section but in conformance with the UCC to limit climbing require a variance as described in §
14-7 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Retaining walls, sidewalks and driveways that involve placement of fill in floodways shall meet the requirements of §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations and N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Swimming pools shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the UCC. Above-ground swimming pools and below-ground swimming pools that involve placement of fill in floodways shall also meet the requirements of §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations. Above-ground swimming pools are prohibited in floodways by N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. For any railroad, roadway, or parking area proposed in a flood hazard
area, the travel surface shall be constructed at least one foot above
the Flood Hazard Area Design Elevation in accordance with N.J.A.C.
7:13.
b. Roads and watercourse crossings that encroach into regulated floodways or riverine waterways with base flood elevations where floodways have not been designated, including roads, bridges, culverts, low-water crossings and similar means for vehicles or pedestrians to travel from one side of a watercourse to the other side, shall meet the requirements of §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Temporary structures subject to these regulations may only be
erected for a period of less than 180 days. Temporary structures shall
be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting
from hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during
conditions of the base flood. Fully enclosed temporary structures
shall have flood openings that are in accordance with ASCE 24 to allow
for the automatic entry and exit of flood waters.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Temporary storage, which means storage of goods and materials
subject to these regulations, shall be permitted fora period of less
than 180 days. Permitted stored materials shall not include hazardous
materials.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Temporary structures and temporary storage in floodways shall meet the requirements of §
14-5.3a1 of these regulations.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
In accordance with Section 312 of the International Building
Code, Utility and Miscellaneous Group U includes buildings and structures
that are accessory in character and miscellaneous structures not classified
in any specific occupancy in the Building Code, including, but not
limited to, agricultural buildings, aircraft hangars (accessory to
a one- or two-family residence), barns, carports, communication equipment
structures (gross floor area less than 1,500 square feet), fences
more than six feet (1,829 mm) high, grain silos (accessory to a residential
occupancy), livestock shelters, private garages, retaining walls,
sheds, stables, tanks and towers.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Utility and miscellaneous Group U buildings and structures, including substantial improvement of such buildings and structures, shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement resulting from flood loads, including the effects of buoyancy, during conditions up to the Local Design Flood Elevation as determined in §
14-2.3.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Utility and miscellaneous Group U buildings and structures, including substantial improvement of such buildings and structures, shall be elevated such that the lowest floor, including basement, is elevated to or above the Local Design Flood Elevation as determined in §
14-2.3 and in accordance with ASCE 24. Utility lines shall be designed and elevated in accordance with N.J.A.C. 7:13.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Fully enclosed areas below the design flood elevation shall be constructed in accordance with §
14-15.2 and with ASCE 24 for new construction and substantial improvements. Existing enclosures such as a basement or crawlspace having a floor that is below grade along all adjoining exterior walls shall be abandoned, filled-in, and/or otherwise modified to conform with the requirements of N.J.A.C. 7:13 when the project has been determined to be a substantial improvement by the Floodplain Administrator.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
Flood-damage-resistant materials shall be used below the Local Design Flood Elevation determined in §
14-2.3.
[Added 9-11-2023 by Ord.
No. 869]
a. Except as provided in paragraph b of this §
14-17.6, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems, equipment and components, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, plumbing fixtures, duct systems, and other service equipment, shall be elevated to or above the Local Design Flood Elevation determined in §
14-2.3.
b. Exception: Electrical systems, equipment and components, and heating,
ventilating, air conditioning, and plumbing appliances, plumbing fixtures,
duct systems, and other service equipment shall be permitted to be
located below the Local Design Flood Elevation provided that they
are designed and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating
within the components and to resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads
and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence
of flooding to the Local Design Flood Elevation in compliance with
the flood-resistant construction requirements of ASCE 24. Electrical
wiring systems shall be permitted to be located below the Local Design
Flood Elevation provided they conform to the provisions of NFPA 70
(National Electric Code).