[Amended 6-25-2009 by Ord. No. 2009-07[1]; 12-10-2015 by Ord. No. 2015-13]
[1]
Editor's Note: This ordinance provided an effective date of 9-25-2009.
A. 
The legislature of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has, by the passage of the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act of 1978, delegated the responsibility to the local government units to adopt floodplain management regulations to promote public health, safety, and the general welfare of its citizenry. Therefore, the Board of Supervisors of the Township of Springettsbury does hereby order as follows.
B. 
Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of these provisions is to promote the general health, welfare and safety of the community by:
(1) 
Encouraging the utilization of appropriate construction practices in order to prevent or minimize flood damage in the future.
(2) 
Minimize danger to public health by protecting water supply and natural drainage.
(3) 
Reduce financial burdens imposed on the community, its governmental units and its residents by preventing excessive development in areas subject to flooding.
(4) 
Comply with federal and state floodplain management requirements.
C. 
Applicability. These provisions shall apply to all lands within the Jurisdiction of Springettsbury Township and shown on the Official Floodplain Map within the boundaries of any floodplain district. The floodplain districts described herein shall be overlays to the existing underlying zoning districts as shown on the Official Zoning Map and, as such, the provisions for the floodplain districts shall serve as a supplement to the underlying district provisions. No structure or land shall hereafter be used and no structure shall be located, relocated, constructed, reconstructed, enlarged or structurally altered except in full compliance with the terms and provisions of this chapter and any other applicable ordinances and regulations which apply to uses within the jurisdiction of this chapter.
(1) 
Zoning overlay. In the event any provisions concerning a floodplain district are declared inapplicable as a result of any legislative or administrative actions or judicial discretion, the basic underlying zoning district provisions shall remain applicable.
(2) 
It shall be unlawful for any person, partnership, business or corporation to undertake, or cause to be undertaken, any construction or development anywhere within Springettsbury Township unless a zoning permit has been obtained from Springettsbury Township.
(3) 
A zoning permit shall not be required for minor repairs to existing buildings or structures.
D. 
Abrogation and greater restrictions. This article supersedes any other conflicting provisions which may be in effect in identified floodplain areas. However, any other ordinance provisions shall remain in full force and effect to the extent that those provisions are more restrictive. If there is any conflict between any of the provisions of this article, the more restrictive shall apply.
E. 
Warning and disclaimer of liability. The degree of flood protection sought by the provisions of this article is considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on acceptable engineering methods of study. Larger floods may occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be increased by man-made or natural causes, such as ice jams and bridge openings restricted by debris. This article does not imply that areas outside the Floodplain Districts will be free from flooding or flood damages. This article shall not create liability on the part of Springettsbury Township or any officer or employee thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on this article or any administrative decision lawfully made thereunder.
F. 
Severability. If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase of this article shall be declared invalid for any reason whatsoever, such a decision shall not affect the remaining portions of this article, which shall remain in full force and effect, and for this purpose the provisions of this article are hereby declared to be severable.
Unless specifically defined below, words and phrases used in this article shall be interpreted so as to give this article its most reasonable meaning. Any of the following definitions which may conflict with a definition in § 325-5 of this chapter shall apply within this article only.
ACCESSORY USE OR STRUCTURE
A use or structure on the same lot with, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate to, the principal use or structure.
BASE FLOOD
A flood which has a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (also called the "one-hundred-year flood" or one-percent annual chance flood).
BASE FLOOD DISCHARGE
The volume of water resulting from a base flood as it passes a given location within a given time, usually expressed in cubic feet per second (cfs).
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE)
The elevation shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Zones AE, AH, A1-30 that indicates the water surface elevation resulting from a flood that has a one-percent or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.
BASEMENT
Any area of the building having its floor below ground level on all sides.
BUILDING
A combination of materials to form a permanent structure having walls and a roof. Included shall be all manufactured homes and trailers to be used for human habitation.
COMPLETELY DRY SPACE
A space which will remain totally dry during flooding; the structure is designed and constructed to prevent the passage of water and water vapor.
DEVELOPMENT
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to the construction, reconstruction, renovation, repair, expansion or alteration of buildings or other structures, the placement of manufactured homes, streets and other paving, utilities, filling, grading and excavation, mining, dredging, drilling operations, storage of equipment or materials and the subdivision of land.
EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
A manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before the effective date of the floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
EXPANSION TO AN EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
The preparation of additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads).
ESSENTIALLY DRY SPACE
A space which will remain dry during flooding, except for the passage of some water vapor or minor seepage; the structure is substantially impermeable to the passage of water.
FLOOD
A temporary inundation of normally dry land areas.
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM)
The official map on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency 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 provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency that includes flood profiles, the Flood Insurance Rate Map, the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, and the water surface elevation of the base flood.
FLOODPLAIN AREA
A relatively flat or low land area which is subject to partial or complete inundation from an adjoining or nearby stream, river or watercourse and/or any area subject to the unusual and rapid accumulation of surface waters from any source.
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.
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 one foot.
HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE
The highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.
HISTORIC STRUCTURES
Any structure which is:
A. 
Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing maintained by the Department of the 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.
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.
(2) 
Directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs.
IDENTIFIED FLOODPLAIN AREA
This term is an umbrella term that includes all of the areas within which the community has selected to enforce floodplain regulations. It will always include the area identified as the Special Flood Hazard Area on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Insurance Study, but may include additional areas identified by the community. See § 325-78B(5) for the specifics on what areas the community has included in the identified floodplain area. The identified floodplain area specifically identified in this chapter as being inundated by the one-hundred-year flood, including areas identified as Floodway (FW), Flood-Fringe (FF) and General Floodplain (FA).
LAND DEVELOPMENT
Any of the following activities:
A. 
The improvement of one or two or more contiguous lots, tracts or parcels of land for a purpose involving:
(1) 
A group of two or more residential or nonresidential buildings, whether proposed initially or cumulatively, or a single nonresidential building on a lot or lots regardless of the number of occupants or tenure.
(2) 
The division or allocation of land or space, whether proposed initially or cumulatively, between or among two or more existing or prospective occupants by means of, or for the purpose of, streets, common areas, leaseholds, condominiums, building groups or other features.
B. 
A subdivision of land.
LOWEST FLOOR
The lowest floor of the lowest fully enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished, flood-resistant, partially enclosed area used solely for parking of vehicles, building access and incidental storage, in an area other than a basement area, is not considered the lowest floor of a building, provided that such space is not designed and built so that the structure is in violation of the applicable nonelevation design requirements of this article.
MANFACTURED HOME
A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis, and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The term includes park trailers, travel trailers, recreational and other similar vehicles which are placed on a site for more than 180 consecutive days.
MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
A parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
MINOR REPAIR
The replacement of existing work with equivalent materials for the purpose of its routine maintenance and upkeep, but not including the cutting away of any wall, partition or portion thereof; the removal or cutting of any structural beam or bearing support; or the removal or change of any required means of egress or the rearrangement of parts of a structure affecting the exitway requirements; nor shall minor repairs include addition to, alteration of, replacement or relocation of any standpipe, water supply, sewer, drainage, drain leader, gas, soil, waste, vent or similar piping, electric wiring or mechanical or other work affecting public health or general safety.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective start date of this floodplain management article and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures. Any construction started after December 7, 1977, and before the effective start date of this floodplain management article is subject to the ordinance in effect at the time the permit was issued, provided the start of construction was within 180 days of permit issuance.
NEW MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
A manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after the effective date of floodplain management regulations adopted by a community.
ONE-HUNDRED-YEAR FLOOD
A flood that, on average, is likely to occur once every 100 years (i.e., that has one-percent chance of occurring each year, although the flood may occur in any year).
PERSON
An individual, partnership, public or private association or corporation, firm, trust, estate, municipality, governmental unit, public utility, or any other legal entity whatsoever which is recognized by law as the subject of rights and duties.
POST-FIRM STRUCTURE
A structure for which construction or substantial improvement occurred after December 31, 1974, or on or after the community's initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) whichever is later and, as such, would be required to be compliant with the regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program.
PRE-FIRM STRUCTURE
A structure for which construction or substantial improvement occurred on or before December 31, 1974, or before the community's initial Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), whichever is later and, as such, would not be required to be compliant with the regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A vehicle which is:
A. 
Built on a single chassis.
B. 
Not more than 400 square feet, measured at the largest horizontal projections.
C. 
Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty truck.
D. 
Not designed for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.
REULATORY FLOOD ELEVATION
The base flood elevation (BFE) or estimated flood height as determined using simplified methods plus a freeboard safety factor of 1 1/2 feet.
REPETITIVE LOSS
Flood-related damages, sustained by a structure on two separate occasions during a ten-year period, for which the cost of repairs at the time of each such flood event, on average, equals or exceeds 25% of the market value of the structure before the damages occurred.
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA (SFHA)
An area in the floodplain subject to a one-percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year, it is shown on the FIRM as Zone A, AO, A1-30, AE, A99, or AH.
SPECIAL PERMIT
A special approval which is required for hospitals, nursing homes, jails and new manufactured home parks and subdivision and substantial improvements to such existing parks when such development is located in all or a designated portion of a floodplain.
START OF CONSTRUCTION
Includes substantial improvement and other proposed new development and means the date the permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other improvement was within 180 days after the date of the permit and shall be completed within 12 months after the date of issuance of the permit unless a time extension is granted, in writing, by the Floodplain Administrator. 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 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. For a substantial improvement, the actual start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, celling, 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, including a gas or liquid storage tank that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home.
SUBDIVISION
The division or redivision of a lot, tract or parcel of land by any means Into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions of land, including changes in existing lot lines for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of lease, partition by the court for distribution to heirs or devisees, transfer of ownership of building or lot development; provided, however, that the subdivision by lease of land for agricultural purposes into parcels of more than 10 acres not involving any new street or easement of access or any residential dwelling shall be exempted.
SUBSTANTIAL ADDITIONS TO MANUFACTURED HOME PARKS
Any repair, reconstruction, or improvement of an existing manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision, where such repair, reconstruction, or improvement of the street, utilities, and pads will equal or exceed 50% of the value of the streets, utilities, and pads before the repair, reconstruction, or improvement is started.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
Damage from any cause sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50% or more of the fair market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvement of a structure of which the cost 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 or repetitive loss regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include 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 official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions.
UNIFORM CONSTRUCTION CODE (UCC)
The statewide building code, adopted by the Pennsylvania General Assembly in 1999, applicable to new construction in all municipalities whether administered by the municipality, a third party or the Department of Labor and Industry. Applicable to residential and commercial buildings, the code adopted the International Residential Code (IRC) and the International Building Code (IBC), by reference, as the construction standard applicable to commonwealth floodplain construction. For coordination purposes, references to the above are made specifically to various sections of the IRC and the IBC.
VARIANCE
A grant of relief by a community from the terms of a floodplain management regulation.
VIOLATION
Means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the community's floodplain management regulations. A structure or other development without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in 44 CFR § 60.3B(5), C(4), C(10), D(3), E(2), E(4), or E(5) is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.
A. 
Designation of the Floodplain Administrator.
(1) 
The Township Engineer is hereby appointed to administer and enforce this article and is referred to herein as the Floodplain Administrator. The Floodplain Administrator may:
(a) 
Fulfill the duties and responsibilities set forth in these regulations;
(b) 
Delegate duties and responsibilities set forth in these regulations to qualified technical personnel, plan examiners, inspectors, and other employees; or
(c) 
Enter into a written agreement or written contract with another agency or private sector entity to administer specific provisions of these regulations.
(2) 
Administration of any part of these regulations by another entity shall not relieve the community of its responsibilities pursuant to the participation requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program as set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations at 44 CFR 59.22.
(3) 
In the absence of a designated Floodplain Administrator, the Floodplain Administrator duties are to be fulfilled by the Township Manager.
B. 
Duties and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator. The Floodplain Administrator shall issue a permit only after it has been determined that the proposed work to be undertaken will be in conformance with the requirements of this and all other applicable codes and ordinances.
(1) 
Prior to the issuance of any permit, the Floodplain Administrator shall review the Sewage Facilities Act (Act 1966-537, as amended); the Pennsylvania Dam Safety and Encroachments Act (Act 1978-325, as amended); the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Act (Act 1937-394, as amended);[1] and the U.S. Clean Water Act, Section 404, 33 U.S.C. § 1344. No permit shall be issued until this determination has been made.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. § 750.1 et seq., 32 P.S. § 693.1 et seq., and 35 P.S. § 691.1 et seq., respectively.
(2) 
During the construction period, the Floodplain Administrator or other authorized official shall inspect the premises to determine that the work is progressing in compliance with the information provided on the permit application and with all applicable municipal laws and ordinances. He/she shall make as many inspections during and upon completion of the work as are necessary.
(3) 
In the discharge of his/her duties, the Floodplain Administrator shall have the authority to enter any building, structure, premises or development in the identified floodplain area, upon presentation of proper credentials, at any reasonable hour to enforce the provisions of this article.
(4) 
In the event the Floodplain Administrator discovers that the work does not comply with the permit application or any applicable laws and ordinances, or that there has been a false statement or misrepresentation by any applicant, the Floodplain Administrator shall revoke the permit and report such fact to the Board, Council, etc., for whatever action it considers necessary.
(5) 
The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain in perpetuity all records associated with the requirements of this article including, but not limited to, finished construction elevation data, permitting, inspection and enforcement.
(6) 
The Floodplain Administrator is the official responsible for submitting a biennial report to FEMA concerning community participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
(7) 
The responsibility, authority and means to implement the commitments of the Floodplain Administrator can be delegated from the person Identified. However, the ultimate responsibility lies with the person identified in the floodplain ordinance as the floodplain administrator/manager.
(a) 
Records associated with SFHA must be maintained in perpetuity; this supersedes the Pennsylvania Record Retention requirements.
(8) 
The Floodplain Administrator shall consider the requirements of 34 Pa. Code and the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC or latest revisions thereof.
C. 
Zoning permits required. Zoning permits shall be required before any construction or development is undertaken within Springettsbury Township in accordance with §§ 325-187 and 325-188 of this chapter.
D. 
Issuance of zoning permits. Springettsbury Township shall issue a zoning permit only after it has been determined that the proposed work to be undertaken will be in conformance with the requirements of this and all other applicable codes and ordinances.
E. 
Application procedures and requirements. Application for such a zoning permit shall be made, in writing, to the Zoning Officer on forms supplied by Springettsbury Township.
(1) 
Such application shall contain the following:
(a) 
Name and address of applicant.
(b) 
Name and address of owner of land on which proposed construction is to occur.
(c) 
Name and address of contractor.
(d) 
Site location, including address.
(e) 
Listing of other permits required.
(f) 
Brief description of proposed work and estimated cost, including a breakdown of the flood-related cost and the market value of the building before the flood damage occurred.
(g) 
A plan of the site showing the exact size and location of the proposed construction as well as any existing buildings or structures.
(2) 
If any proposed construction or development is located entirely or partially within any identified floodplain area, applicants for zoning permits shall provide all the necessary information in sufficient detail and clarity to enable the Zoning Officer to determine that:
(a) 
All such proposals are consistent with the need to minimize flood damage and conform with the requirements of this and all other applicable codes and ordinances;
(b) 
All utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems, are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and
(c) 
Adequate drainage is provided so as to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
(3) 
Applicants shall file the following minimum information plus any other pertinent information as may be required by the Zoning Officer to make the above determination:
(a) 
A completed zoning permit application form.
(b) 
A plan of the entire site, clearly and legibly drawn at a scale of one inch being equal to 100 feet or less, showing the following:
[1] 
North arrow, scale, and date;
[2] 
Topographic contour lines, if available;
[3] 
All property and lot lines, including dimensions, and the size of the site, expressed in acres or square feet;
[4] 
The location of all existing and proposed buildings, structures, and other improvements, including the location of any existing or proposed subdivision and land development;
[5] 
The location of all existing streets, drives, and other accessways; and
[6] 
The location of any existing bodies of water or watercourses, identified floodplain areas, and, if available, information pertaining to the floodway, and the flow of water, including directions and velocities.
(c) 
Plans of all proposed buildings, structures and other improvements, drawn at suitable scale, showing the following:
[1] 
The proposed lowest floor elevations of any proposed building based upon North American Vertical Datum of 1988;
[2] 
The elevation of the one-hundred-year flood;
[3] 
If available, information concerning flood depths, pressures, velocities, impact and uplift forces and other factors associated with a one-hundred-year flood;
[4] 
Detailed information concerning any proposed floodproofing measures; and
[5] 
Supplemental information as may be necessary under 34 Pa. Code, Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, and Sections 1612.5.1, 104.7 and 109.3 of the 2003 IBC and Sections R106.1.3 and R104.7 of the 2003 IRC or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township.
(d) 
The following data and documentation:
[1] 
Documentation, certified by a registered professional engineer or architect, to show that the cumulative effect of any proposed development within an FE (Special Floodplain Area), when combined with all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase the elevation of the one-hundred-year flood more than one foot at any point.
[2] 
A document, certified by a registered professional engineer or architect, which states that the proposed construction or development has been adequately designed to withstand the pressures, velocities, impact and uplift forces associated with the one-hundred-year flood. Such statement shall include a description of the type and extent of floodproofing measures which have been incorporated into the design of the structure and/or the development.
[3] 
Detailed information needed to determine compliance with § 325-79H(6) Storage, and § 325-79I, Development which may endanger human life, including:
[a] 
The amount, location and purpose of any materials or substances referred to in § 325-79H(6) and § 325-79I which are intended to be used, produced, stored or otherwise maintained on site.
[b] 
A description of the safeguards incorporated into the design of the proposed structure to prevent leaks or spills of the dangerous materials or substances listed in § 325-79G during a one-hundred-year flood.
[4] 
The appropriate component of the Department of Environmental Protection's "Planning Module for Land Development."
[5] 
Where any excavation or grading is proposed, a plan, meeting the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection, to implement and maintain erosion and sedimentation control.
F. 
County Conservation District review. A copy of all application for any proposed construction or development in any identified floodplain area to be considered for approval shall be submitted by the applicant to the York County Conservation District for review and comment prior to the issuance of a zoning permit. The recommendations of the York County Conservation District shall be considered by Springettsbury Township for possible incorporation into the proposed plan.
G. 
Review of application by others. Prior to the issuance of any zoning permit, the Zoning Officer shall review the application for permit to determine if all necessary governmental permits, such as those required by state and federal laws, have been obtained, including those required by the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act (Act 1966-537, as amended), the Pennsylvania Dam Safety and Encroachments Act (Act 1978-325, as amended), the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Act (Act 1937-394, as amended),[2] and the U.S. Clean Water Act, § 404, 33 U.S.C. § 1334, as amended. No permit shall be issued until this determination has been made. A copy of all plans and application for proposed construction or development in any identified floodplain area to be considered for approval may, at the permit officer's discretion, be submitted to any other appropriate agencies and/or individuals for review and comment.
[2]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. § 750.1 et seq., 32 P.S. § 693.1 et seq., and 35 P.S. § 691.1 et seq., respectively.
H. 
Start of construction. Work on the proposed construction and/or development shall begin within six months and shall be completed within 12 months after the date of issuance of the permit, or the permit shall expire unless a time extension is granted, in writing, by Springettsbury Township. Construction and/or development shall be considered to have started with the preparation of land, land clearing, grading, filling, excavation of basement, footings, piers, or foundations, erection of temporary forms, the installation of piling under proposed subsurface footings, or the installation of sewer, gas and water pipes, or electrical or other service lines from the street. Time extensions shall be granted only if a written request is submitted by the applicant, which sets forth sufficient and reasonable cause for Springettsbury Township to approve such a request.
I. 
Watercourse alterations. No encroachments, alteration, or improvements of any kind shall be made to any watercourse until all adjacent municipalities which may be affected by such action have been notified by Springettsbury Township and until all required permits or approvals have been first obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office. No encroachments, alteration, or improvements of any kind shall be made to any watercourse unless it can be shown that the activity will not reduce or impede the flood-carrying capacity of the watercourse in any way. In addition, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development shall be notified by Springettsbury Township prior to any alteration or relocation of any watercourse.
J. 
Changes. After the issuance of a zoning permit, no changes of any kind shall be made to the application, permit or any of the plans, specifications or other documents submitted with the application without the written consent or approval of Springettsbury Township. Requests for any such changes shall be in writing and shall be submitted by the applicant to Springettsbury Township for consideration.
K. 
Display of permit. A copy of the permit shall be displayed on the premises during construction.
L. 
Inspection and revocation.
(1) 
During the construction period, Springettsbury Township shall inspect the premises to determine that the work is progressing in compliance with the information provided on the permit application and with all applicable municipal laws and ordinances. Springettsbury Township shall make as many inspections during and upon completion of the work as are necessary.
(2) 
In the discharge of his duties, the Zoning Officer shall have the authority to enter any building, structure, premises or development in the identified floodplain area, upon presentation of proper credentials, at any reasonable hour to enforce the provisions of this article.
(3) 
In the event the Zoning Officer shall discover that the work does not comply with the permit application or any applicable laws and ordinances, or that there has been a false statement or misrepresentation by any applicant, the Zoning Officer shall revoke the permit and report such fact to the Board of Supervisors for whatever action it considers necessary.
(4) 
A record of all such inspections and violations of this article shall be maintained.
(5) 
The requirements of 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405 and the IBC (Sections 109.3.3, 1612.5.1, 104.7 and 103.8) and the 2003 IRC (Sections R106.1.3, R109.1.3 and R104.7) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township pertaining to elevation certificates and record retention shall be considered.
M. 
Fees. Applications for a zoning permit shall be accompanied by a fee payable to Springettsbury Township based upon the estimated cost of the proposed construction as set by resolution of the Board of Supervisors, as amended from time to time.
N. 
Enforcement and penalties. Enforcement and penalties related to permits for construction shall be in accordance with all applicable sections of this chapter and the International Building Code of Springettsbury Township.
(1) 
Notices. Whenever the Zoning Officer or other authorized municipal representative determines that there are reasonable grounds to believe that there has been a violation of any provisions of this article, or of any regulations adopted pursuant thereto, the Official shall give notice of such alleged violation as hereinafter provided. Such notice shall:
(a) 
Be in writing;
(b) 
Include a statement of the reasons for its issuance;
(c) 
Allow a reasonable time not to exceed a period of 30 days for the performance of any act it requires;
(d) 
Be served upon the property owner or his agent, as the case may require, via certified restricted mail or method of service authorized or required by the laws of this state; and
(e) 
Contain an outline of remedial action which, if taken, will effect compliance with the provisions of this article.
(2) 
Penalties. Any person who fails to comply with any or all of the requirements or provisions of this article or who fails or refuses to comply with any notice or order of direction of the Zoning Officer or any other authorized employee of Springettsbury Township shall be guilty of an offense and, upon conviction, shall pay a fine to Springettsbury Township of $500 plus costs of prosecution. In default of such payment, such person shall be imprisoned in the county prison for a period not to exceed 10 days. Each day during which any violation of this article continues shall constitute a separate offense. In addition to the above penalties, all other actions are hereby reserved, including an action in equity for the proper enforcement of this article. The imposition of a fine or penalty for any violation of, or noncompliance with, this article shall not excuse the violation or noncompliance or permit it to continue, and all such persons shall be required to correct or remedy such violations and noncompliance within a reasonable time. Any development initiated or any structure or building constructed, reconstructed, enlarged, altered, or relocated in noncompliance with this article may be declared by the Board of Supervisors to be a public nuisance and abatable as such.
O. 
Appeals.
(1) 
Any person aggrieved by any action or decision of the Zoning Officer concerning the administration of the provisions of this article may appeal to the Zoning Hearing Board. Such appeal must be filed, in writing, within 30 days after the decision, determination or action of the Zoning Officer.
(2) 
Upon receipt of such appeal, the Zoning Hearing Board shall set a time and place, within not less than 10 nor more than 30 days, for the purpose of considering the appeal. Notice of the time and place at which the appeal will be considered shall be given to all parties.
(3) 
Any person aggrieved by any decision of the Zoning Hearing Board may seek relief therefrom by appeal to the court, as provided by the laws of this commonwealth, including the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act.
A. 
Identification. The identified floodplain area shall be those areas of Springettsbury Township which are subject to the one-hundred-year flood, which are Identified as SFHAs (Area of Special Flood Hazard) in the Flood Insurance Study December 16, 2015 and the accompanying maps prepared for Springettsbury Township by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) or the most recent revision thereof, including all digital data developed as part of the Flood Insurance Study.
B. 
Description of floodplain areas.
(1) 
Floodway area (FW). The areas identified as "floodway" in the flood insurance study. The term shall also include floodway areas which have been identified in other available studies or sources of information for those floodplain areas where no floodway has been identified in the Flood Insurance Study. This term shall also include floodway areas which have been identified in other available studies or sources of information for those Special Flood Hazard Areas where no floodway has been identified in the FIS and FIRM.
(a) 
Within any floodway area, no encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements, or other development shall be permitted unless it has been demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic analysis performed in accordance with standard engineering practice that the proposed encroachment would not result in any increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(b) 
Within any floodway area, no new construction or development shall be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
(2) 
The AE Area/District shall be those areas identified as an AE Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA for which base flood elevations have been provided.
(a) 
The AE Area adjacent to the floodway shall be those areas identified as an AE Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA for which base flood elevations have been provided and a floodway has been delineated.
[1] 
No permit shall be granted for any construction, development, use, or activity within any AE Area/District without floodway unless it is demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development would not, together with all other existing and anticipated development, increase the BFE more than one foot at any point.
[2] 
No new construction or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
(3) 
The A Area/District shall be those areas Identified as an A Zone on the FIRM included in the FIS prepared by FEMA and for which no base flood elevations have been provided. For these areas, elevation and floodway information from other federal, state, or other acceptable sources shall be used when available. Where other acceptable information is not available, the base flood elevation shall be determined by using the elevation of a point on the boundary of the identified floodplain area which is nearest the construction site.
(a) 
In lieu of the above, the municipality may require the applicant to determine the elevation with hydrologic and hydraulic engineering techniques. Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses shall be undertaken only by professional engineers or others of demonstrated qualifications, who shall certify that the technical methods used correctly reflect currently accepted technical concepts. Studies, analyses, computations, etc., shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow a thorough technical review by the municipality.
(4) 
The AO and AH Area/District shall be those areas identified as Zones AO and AH on the FIRM and in the FIS. These areas are subject to inundation by one-percent-annual-chance shallow flooding where average depths are between one and three feet. In Zones AO and AH, drainage paths shall be established to guide floodwaters around and away from structures on slopes.
(5) 
Community-identified flood hazard areas specific to Springettsbury Township; the Springettsbury Township Zoning Ordinance recognizes the terms Floodway (FW). Special Floodplain area (FE). Flood Fringe (FF) and General Floodplain Area (FA). For the purposes of this article, the Floodway shall include all areas defined within the FEMA floodway. The General, Special, and Flood Fringe areas shall include all areas covered by FEMA designations A, AE, AO and AH as defined above.
C. 
District boundary changes. The delineation of any of the Floodplain Districts may be revised by the Board of Supervisors where natural or man-made changes have occurred and/or more detailed studies conducted or undertaken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission or other qualified agency or individual documents the advisability for such change. However, prior to any such change, approval must be obtained from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Additionally, as soon as practicable, but not later than six months after the date such information becomes available, a community shall notify FEMA of the changes to the Special Flood Hazard Area by submitting technical or scientific data. See § 325-79 for situations where FEMA notification is required.
D. 
Boundary disputes. Should a dispute concerning any identified floodplain boundary arise, an initial determination shall be made by the Zoning Officer. Any party aggrieved by this decision may appeal to the Zoning Hearing Board.
E. 
Zoning Map. The boundaries of the floodplain districts are established as shown on the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, Panels 42133C0214F, 42133C0218F, 42133C0219F, 42133C0326F, 42133C0327F, 42133C0329F, 42133C0331F, 42133C0332F, 42133C0333F, 42133C0334F, 42133C0351F01F, dated December 16, 2015, or the most recent revision thereto. The said map is hereby incorporated into and made a part of the Official Zoning Map of Springettsbury Township, as it may be amended from time to time. A copy of said map shall be kept on file at the offices of Springettsbury Township and be available for inspection at any time.
F. 
Use permitted in Floodway Area (FW). The following uses and no others shall be permitted in a Floodway Area (FW). No development shall be permitted in the floodway except where the effect of such development on flood heights is fully offset by accompanying improvements which have been approved by all appropriate local, state and/or federal authorities as required above.
(1) 
Uses permitted by right. The following uses and activities are permitted in the floodway, provided that they are in compliance with the provisions of the underlying district and are not prohibited by any other ordinance, and provided that they do not require structures, fill or storage of materials and equipment:
(a) 
Agricultural and farm uses such as general farming, pasture, grazing, outdoor plant nurseries, horticulture, truck farming, forestry, sod farming and wild crop harvesting.
(b) 
Public and private recreational uses and activities such as parks, day camps, picnic grounds, golf courses, boat-launching and swimming areas, hiking and horseback riding trails, wildlife and nature preserves, game farms, fish hatcheries, trap-and-skeet game ranges and hunting and fishing areas.
(c) 
Accessory residential uses such as yard areas, gardens, play areas and pervious parking areas.
(d) 
Accessory industrial and commercial uses such as yard areas, pervious parking and loading areas, airport landing strips, etc.
(2) 
Uses permitted by special exception. The following uses and activities may be permitted by special exception, provided that they are in compliance with the provisions of the underlying district and are not prohibited by any other ordinance:
(a) 
Structures, except for mobile homes, accessory to the uses and activities in Subsection F(1), Uses permitted by right, above.
(b) 
Utilities and public facilities and improvements such as railroads, streets, bridges, transmission lines, pipelines, water and sewage treatment plants and other similar related uses.
(c) 
Water-related uses and activities such as marinas, docks, wharves, piers, etc.
(d) 
Extraction of sand, gravel and other materials.
(e) 
Temporary uses such as circuses, carnivals and similar activities.
(f) 
Storage of materials and equipment, provided that they are not buoyant, flammable or explosive and are not subject to major damage by flooding, provided that such material and equipment is firmly anchored to prevent flotation or movement and/or can be readily removed from the area within the time available after flood warning. Nothing in this subsection shall permit the storage of materials that could (in times of flooding) be injurious to human, animal or plant life.
(g) 
Other similar uses and activities, provided they cause no increase in flood heights and/or velocities. All uses, activities and structural developments shall be undertaken in strict compliance with the floodproofing provisions contained in all other applicable codes and ordinances.
G. 
Flood-Fringe (FF) and General Floodplain Area (FA). The development and/or use of land shall be permitted in the Flood-Fringe and approximated floodplain in accordance with the regulations of the underlying district, provided that all such uses, activities and/or development shall be undertaken in strict compliance with the floodproofing and related provisions contained in all other applicable codes and ordinances.
A. 
General.
(1) 
Under no circumstances shall any use, activity, and/or development adversely affect the capacity of the channels or floodways of any watercourse, drainage ditch or any other drainage facility or system. Prior to any proposed alteration or relocation of any stream, watercourse, etc., within the Township, a permit shall be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Dams and Waterway Management. Further, notification of the proposal shall be given to all affected adjacent municipalities and to the owners of all property within 200 feet of the proposed use, activity, and/or development. Copies of such notifications shall be forwarded to both the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development.
(2) 
All uses, activities and development occurring within any floodplain district shall be undertaken only in strict compliance with the provisions of this article and with all other applicable codes and ordinances such as the Springettsbury Township Zoning Permit Ordinance and the Springettsbury Township Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance (Chapter 289), in addition to all applicable state and federal regulations.
B. 
Special requirements for FW, FE, and FA areas.
(1) 
Within any Floodway Area (FW) the following provisions shall apply:
(a) 
Any new construction, development, use, activity or encroachment that would cause any increase in the one-hundred-year-flood heights shall be prohibited.
(b) 
No new construction or developments shall be allowed unless a permit is obtained from DEP.
(c) 
Under no circumstances shall any of the development referenced in Subsection I, Development which may endanger human life, be permitted in the Floodway Area (FW).
(d) 
Within any Floodway Area (FW), manufactured homes shall be prohibited.
(2) 
Within any FE (Special Floodplain Area), no new construction or development shall be allowed unless it is demonstrated that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated development, will not increase the elevation of the one-hundred-year flood more than one foot at any point.
(3) 
Within any FE (Special Floodplain Area) or FA (General Floodplain Area), the following provisions apply:
(a) 
No new construction or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
(b) 
Any new construction or development which would cause any increase in flood heights shall be prohibited within any floodway area.
(c) 
Drainage paths shall be required around structures on slopes to guide water away from structures.
C. 
Alteration or relocation of watercourse.
(1) 
No encroachment, alteration, or improvement of any kind shall be made to any watercourse until all adjacent municipalities which may be affected by such action have been notified by the municipality, and until all required permits or approvals have first been obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
(2) 
No encroachment, alteration, or improvement of any kind shall be made to any watercourse unless it can be shown that the activity will not reduce or impede the flood-carrying capacity of the watercourse in any way.
(3) 
In addition, FEMA and the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development shall be notified prior to any alteration or relocation of any watercourse.
D. 
Requirements for stream encroachments:
(1) 
Any development that causes a rise in the base flood elevations within the floodway; or
(2) 
Any development occurring in Zones A1-30 and Zone AE without a designated floodway, which will cause a rise of more than one foot in the base flood elevation; or
(3) 
Alteration or relocation of a stream (including but not limited to installing culverts and bridges, the applicant shall:
(a) 
Apply to FEMA for conditional approval of such action prior to permitting the encroachments to occur.
(b) 
Upon receipt of the Administrator's conditional approval of map change and prior to approving the proposed encroachments, a community shall provide evidence to FEMA of the adoption of floodplain management ordinances incorporating the increased base flood elevations and/or revised floodway reflecting the post-project condition.
(c) 
Upon completion of the proposed encroachments, a community shall provide as: built certifications, FEMA will initiate a final map revision upon receipt of such certifications in accordance with 44 CFR Part 67.
E. 
Any new construction, development, uses or activities allowed within any identified floodplain area shall be undertaken in strict compliance with the provisions contained in this article and any other applicable codes, ordinances and regulations.
F. 
Within any Identified Floodplain Area, no new construction or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
G. 
Elevation and floodproofing requirements. Within any Identified Floodplain Area, any new construction or substantial improvements shall be prohibited. If a variance is obtained for new construction or substantial improvements in the Identified Floodplain Area in accordance with the criteria in § 325-81, then the following provisions apply:
(1) 
Residential structures.
(a) 
In AE, A1-30, and AH Zones, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation.
(b) 
In A Zones, where there are no base flood elevations specified on the FIRM, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation determined in accordance with § 325-78B and C of this chapter.
(c) 
In AO Zones, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) at or above the highest adjacent grade at least as high as the depth number specified on the FIRM.
(d) 
The design and construction standards and specifications contained in the 2009 International Building Code (IBC) and in the 2009 International Residential Code (IRC) or the most recent revisions thereof and ASCE 24 and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) shall be utilized, where they are more restrictive.
(2) 
Nonresidential structures.
(a) 
In AE, A1-30 and AH Zones, any new construction or substantial improvement of a nonresidential structure shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation, or be designed and constructed so that the space enclosed below the regulatory flood elevation:
[1] 
Is floodproofed so that the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water; and
[2] 
Has structural components with the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy;
(b) 
In A Zones, where no base flood elevations are specified on the FIRM, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated or completely floodproofed up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation determined in accordance with § 325-78B and C of this article.
(c) 
In AO Zones, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have their lowest floor elevated or completely floodproofed above the highest adjacent grade to at least as high as the depth number specified on the FIRM.
(d) 
Any nonresidential structure, or part thereof, made watertight below the regulatory flood elevation shall be floodproofed in accordance with the W1 or W2 space classification standards contained in the publication entitled "Flood-Proofing Regulations" published by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (June 1972, as amended March 1992) or with some other equivalent standard. All plans and specifications for such floodproofing shall be accompanied by a statement certified by a registered professional engineer or architect which states that the proposed design and methods of construction are in conformance with the above referenced standards.
(e) 
The design and construction standards and specifications contained in the 2009 International Building Code (IBC) and in the 2009 International Residential Code (IRC) or the most recent revisions thereof and ASCE 24 and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405 as amended) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township shall be utilized, where they are more restrictive.
(3) 
Space below the lowest floor.
(a) 
Fully enclosed space below the lowest level (including basement) is prohibited.
(b) 
Partially enclosed space below the lowest floor (including basement) which will be used solely for the parking of a vehicle, building access or incidental storage in an area other than a basement shall be designed and constructed to allow for the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters for the purpose of equalizing hydrostatic forces on exterior walls. The term "partially enclosed space" also includes crawl spaces. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect or meet or exceed the following minimum criteria:
[1] 
A minimum of two openings having a net total area of not less than one square inch for every one square foot of enclosed space.
[2] 
The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade.
[3] 
Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, etc., or other coverings or devices, provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
(c) 
Consideration may be given to the requirements of 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and the 2003 IRC (Sections R323.2.2 and R323.1.4) and the 2003 IBC (Sections 1612.4, 1612.5, 1202.3.2 and 12.3.3.3) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township.
(4) 
Historic structures. Historic structures undergoing repair or rehabilitation that would constitute a substantial improvement, as defined in this article, must comply with all ordinance requirements that do not preclude the structure's continued designation as a historic structure. Documentation that a specific ordinance requirement will cause removal of the structure from the National Register of Historic Places or the State Inventory of Historic places must be obtained from the Secretary of the Interior or the State Historic Preservation Officer. Any exemption from ordinance requirements will be the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
(5) 
Accessory structures. Structures accessory to a principal building need not be elevated or floodproofed to remain dry, but shall comply, at a minimum, with the following requirements:
(a) 
The structure shall not be designed or used for human habitation, but shall be limited to the parking of vehicles, or to the storage of tools, material, and equipment related to the principal use or activity.
(b) 
Floor area shall not exceed 200 square feet.
(c) 
The structure will have a low damage potential.
(d) 
The structure will be located on the site so as to cause the least obstruction to the flow of floodwaters.
(e) 
Power lines, wiring, and outlets will be elevated to the regulatory flood elevation.
(f) 
Permanently affixed utility equipment and appliances such as furnaces, heaters, washers, dryers, etc., are prohibited.
(g) 
Sanitary facilities are prohibited.
(h) 
The structure shall be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement and shall be designed to automatically provide for the entry and exit of floodwater for the purpose of equalizing hydrostatic forces on the walls. Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect, or meet or exceed the following minimum criteria:
[1] 
A minimum of two openings having a net total area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed space.
[2] 
The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade.
[3] 
Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, etc., or other coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
H. 
Design and construction standards. The following minimum standards shall apply for all construction and development proposed within any identified floodplain area:
(1) 
Fill. If fill is used, it shall:
(a) 
Extend laterally at least 15 feet beyond the building line from all points.
(b) 
Consist of soil or small rock materials only; sanitary landfills shall not be permitted.
(c) 
Be compacted to provide the necessary permeability and resistance to erosion, scouring or settling.
(d) 
Be no steeper than one vertical to three horizontal feet unless substantiated data justifying the steeper slopes are submitted to and approved by Springettsbury Township.
(e) 
Be used to the extent to which it does not adversely affect adjacent properties. The provisions contained in the 2003 IBC (Sections 1801.1 and 1803.4) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township shall be utilized.
(2) 
Drainage facilities. Storm drainage facilities shall be designed to convey the flow of stormwater runoff in a safe and efficient manner. The system shall ensure proper drainage along streets and provide positive drainage away from buildings. The system shall also be designed to prevent the discharge of excess runoff onto adjacent properties. The provisions contained in the 2003 IBC (Appendix G401.5) shall be utilized.
(3) 
Water and sanitary sewer facilities and systems.
(a) 
All new or replacement water and sanitary sewer facilities and systems shall be located, designed and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damages and the infiltration of floodwaters.
(b) 
Sanitary sewer facilities and systems shall be designed to prevent the discharge of untreated sewage into floodwaters.
(c) 
No part of any on-site sewage system shall be located within any identified floodplain area except in strict compliance with all state and local regulations for such systems. If any such system is permitted, it shall be located so as to avoid impairment to it, or contamination from it, during a flood.
(d) 
The design and construction provisions of the UCC and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and contained in the 2003 IBC (Appendix G, Sections 401.3 and 401.4), the 2003 IRC (Section 323.1.6) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township, the ASCE 24-98 (Section 8.3), FEMA No. 348, Protecting Building Utilities From Flood, and the International Private Sewage Disposal Code (Chapter 3) shall be utilized.
(4) 
Other utilities. All other utilities such as gas lines, electrical and telephone systems shall be located, elevated (where possible) and constructed to minimize the chance of impairment during a flood.
(5) 
Streets. The finished elevation of all new streets shall be not more than one foot below the regulatory flood elevation. Springettsbury Township will require profiles and elevations of proposed new streets to determine compliance with this requirement.
(6) 
Storage. All materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive or in times of flooding could be injurious to human, animal or plant life and not listed in Subsection I, Development which may endanger human life, shall be stored at or above the regulatory flood elevation and/or floodproofed to the maximum extent possible.
(7) 
All buildings and structures shall be designed, located and constructed so as to offer the minimum obstruction to the flow of water and shall be designed to have a minimum effect upon the flow and height of floodwater.
(8) 
Anchoring.
(a) 
All buildings and structures shall be firmly anchored in accordance with accepted engineering practices to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement.
(b) 
All air ducts, large pipes, storage tanks and other similar objects or components located below the regulatory flood elevation shall be securely anchored or affixed to prevent flotation.
(c) 
The design and construction requirements of the UCC pertaining to this subsection as referred to in 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405 as amended) and contained in the 2003 IBC (Sections 1605.2.2, 1605.3.1.2, 1612.4 and Appendix G 501.3), the IRC (Sections R301.1 and R323.1.1) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township and ASCE 24-98 (Section 5.6) shall be utilized.
(9) 
Floors, walls and ceilings.
(a) 
Wood flooring used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be installed to accommodate a lateral expansion of the flooring, perpendicular to the flooring grain, without causing structural damage to the building.
(b) 
Plywood used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be of a marine or water-resistant variety.
(c) 
Walls and ceilings at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be designed and constructed of materials that are water-resistant and will withstand inundation.
(d) 
Windows, doors and other components at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be made of metal or other water-resistant material.
(e) 
The provisions of the UCC pertaining to this subsection and referenced in the 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and contained in the 2003 IBC (Sections 801.1.3, 1403.2, 1403.4, 1403.6 and 1404.2), the 2003 IRC (Sections R323.1.7 and R501.3) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township and ASCE 24-98 (Chapter 6) shall be utilized.
(10) 
Paints and adhesives.
(a) 
Paints and other finishes used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be of marine or water-resistant quality.
(b) 
Adhesives used at or below the regulatory flood elevation shall be of a marine or water-resistant variety.
(c) 
All wood components (doors, trim, cabinets, etc.) shall be finished with a marine or water-resistant variety of finish.
(d) 
The standards and specifications contained in 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended), the 2003 IBC (Section 801.1.3, 1403.7 and Appendix G) and the 2003 IRC (Sections R323.1.7) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township shall be utilized.
(11) 
Electrical components.
(a) 
Electrical distribution panels shall be at least three feet above the one-hundred-year-flood elevation.
(b) 
Separate electrical circuits shall serve lower levels and shall be dropped from above.
(c) 
The provisions pertaining to the above provisions and referenced in the UCC and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and contained in the 2003 IBC (Section 1612.4), the IRC (Section R323.1.5) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township, the 2000 IFGC (Sections R301.5 and R1601.3.8) and ASCE 24 (Chapter 8) shall be utilized.
(12) 
Equipment.
(a) 
Water heaters, furnaces, air-conditioning and ventilating units and other electrical, mechanical or utility equipment or apparatus shall not be located below the regulatory flood elevation.
(b) 
The provisions pertaining to the above provisions and referenced in the UCC and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and contained in the 2003 IBC (Section 1612.4), the 2003 IRC (Section R323.1.5) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township, the 2000 IFGC (Sections R301.5 and R1601.3.8) and ASCE 24 (Chapter 8) shall be utilized.
(13) 
Fuel supply systems. All gas and oil supply systems shall be designed to prevent the infiltration of floodwater into the system and discharges from the system into floodwater. Additional provisions shall be made for the drainage of these systems in the event that floodwater infiltration occurs.
(14) 
The Standards and Specifications contained in 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405), as amended and not limited to the following provisions shall apply to the above and other sections and subsections of this article, to the extent that they are more restrictive and supplement the requirements of this article.
(a) 
International Building Code (IBC) 2009 or the latest edition thereof: Secs. 801, 1202, 1403, 1603, 1605, 1612, 3402, and Appendix G.
(b) 
International Residential Building Code (IRC) 2009 or the latest edition thereof: Secs. R104, R105, R109, R322, Appendix E, and Appendix J.
I. 
Development which may endanger human life.
(1) 
The provisions of this subsection shall be applicable, in addition to any other applicable provisions of this article or any other ordinance, code or regulation.
(2) 
In accordance with the Pennsylvania Floodplain Management Act and the regulations adopted by the Department of Community and Economic Development as required by the Act, any new or substantially improved structure which will be used for the production or storage of any of the following materials or substances, or which will be used for any activity requiring the maintenance of a supply (more than 550 gallons or other comparable volume or any amount of radioactive substances) of any of the following materials or substances on the premises, shall be subject to the provisions of this subsection in addition to all other applicable provisions:
(a) 
Acetone.
(b) 
Ammonia.
(c) 
Benzene.
(d) 
Calcium carbide.
(e) 
Carbon disulfide.
(f) 
Celluloid.
(g) 
Chlorine.
(h) 
Hydrochloric acid.
(i) 
Hydrocyanic acid.
(j) 
Magnesium.
(k) 
Nitric acid and oxides for nitrogen.
(l) 
Petroleum products (gasoline, fuel oil, etc.).
(m) 
Phosphorus.
(n) 
Potassium.
(o) 
Sodium.
(p) 
Sulphur and sulphur products.
(q) 
Pesticides (including insecticides, fungicides and rodenticides).
(r) 
Radioactive substances, insofar as such substances are not otherwise regulated.
(3) 
Within any Identified Floodplain Area any structure of the kind described in Subsection I(2) above shall be prohibited.
(4) 
Any such structure or part thereof that will be built below the regulatory flood elevation shall be elevated to remain completely dry up to at least 1 1/2 feet above base flood elevation and built in accordance with § 325-79.
(5) 
Except for a possible modification of the freeboard requirements involved, no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements of this section.
J. 
Special requirements for recreational vehicles.
(1) 
Recreational vehicles in Zones A, A1-30, AH and AE must either:
(a) 
Be on site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; and
(b) 
Be fully licensed and ready for highway use; or
(c) 
Meet permit requirements for manufactured home.
K. 
Special requirements for manufactured homes.
(1) 
Within any Identified Floodplain Area, manufactured homes shall be prohibited.
(2) 
Where permitted within any floodplain area, all manufactured homes and any improvements thereto shall be:
(a) 
Placed on a permanent foundation.
(b) 
Elevated so that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is 1 1/2 feet or more above the elevation of the one-hundred-year flood.
(c) 
Anchored to resist flotation, collapse or lateral movement by providing over-the-top and frame ties to ground anchors in accordance with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and National Fire Protection Association Standards (NFPA) as specified in the Standard for the installation of Mobile Homes, including Mobile Home Park Requirements (NFPA No. 501A-1974) (ANSI A119.3-1975) or the most current revisions thereof, for mobile homes in hurricane zones, or other appropriate standards such as the following:
[1] 
Over-the-top ties shall be provided at each of the four corners of the mobile home with two additional ties per side at intermediate locations for units 50 feet or more in length and one additional tie per side for units less than 50 feet in length.
[2] 
Frame ties shall be provided at each corner of the mobile home, with five additional ties per side at intermediate locations for units 50 feet or more in length and four additional ties per side for units less than 50 feet in length.
[3] 
All components of the anchoring system shall be capable of carrying a force of 4,800 pounds.
(d) 
All mobile homes with any additions thereto shall also be elevated in accordance with the following requirements:
[1] 
The stands or lots shall be elevated on compacted fill or on pillings so that the lowest floor of the mobile home will be at or above the elevation of the regulatory flood elevation.
[2] 
Adequate surface drainage shall be provided.
[3] 
Adequate access for a hauler shall be provided.
[4] 
Where pilings are used for elevation, the lots shall be large enough to permit steps; piling foundations shall be placed in stable soil no more than 10 feet apart; reinforcement shall be provided for piling that will extend for six feet or more above ground level.
(e) 
Installation of manufactured homes shall be done in accordance with the manufacturers' installation instructions as provided by the manufacturer. Where the applicant cannot provide the above information, the requirements of Appendix E of the 2003 International Residential Building Code or the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Permanent Foundations for Manufactured Housing, 1984 Edition, draft or latest revision thereto, and 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405 shall apply.
(f) 
Consideration shall be given to the installation requirements of the 2003 IBC (Appendix G, Section 501.1-3) and the 2003 IRC Sections R323.2, R323.3, R102.7.1, and Appendix AE101, 604 and 605) or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township and 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, where appropriate and/or applicable to units where the manufacturers' standards for anchoring cannot be provided or were not established for the proposed installation of the unit(s).
(3) 
An evacuation plan indicating an alternative vehicular access and escape route shall be filed with the Springettsbury Township officials for mobile home parks and mobile home subdivisions, where appropriate.
L. 
Uniform Construction Code coordination. The standards and specifications contained in 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) and not limited to the following provisions shall apply to the above and other sections and subsections of this article, to the extent that they are more restrictive and/or supplement the requirements of this article:
(1) 
International Building Code (IBC) 2003 or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township: Sections 801, 1202, 1403, 1603, 1605, 1212, 3402, and Appendix G.
(2) 
International Residential Building Code (IRC) 2003 or the most recent versions of these codes adopted by the Township: Section R104, R105, R109, R323, Appendix AE101, Appendix E and Appendix J.
M. 
Special requirements for subdivisions and development. All subdivision proposals and development proposals containing at least 50 lots or at least five acres, whichever is the lesser, in Identified Floodplain Areas where base flood elevation data are not available, shall be supported by hydrologic and hydraulic engineering analyses that determine base flood elevations and floodway information. The analyses shall be prepared by a licensed professional engineer in a format required by FEMA for a conditional letter of map revision and letter of map revision. Submittal requirements and processing fees shall be the responsibility of the applicant.
A. 
General. In accordance with the Pennsylvania Floodplain Management Act and regulations adopted by the Department of Community and Economic Development, as required by the Act, the following obstructions and activities are permitted only by special permit, if located partially or entirely within any floodplain district:
(1) 
Hospitals (public or private).
(2) 
Nursing homes (public or private).
(3) 
Jails.
(4) 
New mobile home parks and mobile home subdivisions and substantial improvements to existing mobile home parks.
B. 
Application requirements. Applicants for special permits shall provide five copies of the following items:
(1) 
A written request, including a completed zoning permit application form.
(2) 
A small-scale map showing the vicinity in which the proposed site is located.
(3) 
A plan of the entire site, clearly and legibly drawn at a scale of one inch being equal to 100 feet or less, showing the following:
(a) 
North arrow, scale and date.
(b) 
Topography based on the North American Vertical Datum of 1988, showing existing and proposed contours at intervals of two feet.
(c) 
All property and lot lines, including dimensions and the size of the site expressed in acres or square feet.
(d) 
The location of all existing streets, drives, other accessways and parking areas with information concerning widths, pavement types and construction elevations.
(e) 
The location of any existing bodies of water or watercourses, buildings, structures and other public or private facilities, including railroad tracks and facilities and any other natural and man-made features affecting or affected by the proposed activity or development.
(f) 
The location of the floodplain boundary line, information and spot elevations concerning the one-hundred-year-flood elevations and information concerning the flow of water, including direction and velocities.
(g) 
The location of all proposed buildings, structures, utilities and any other improvements.
(h) 
Any other information which the Township considers necessary for adequate review of the application.
(4) 
Plan of all proposed buildings, structures and other improvements, clearly and legibly drawn at suitable scale, showing the following:
(a) 
Sufficiently detailed architectural or engineering drawings, including floor plans, sections and exterior building elevations, as appropriate.
(b) 
For any proposed building, the elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) and, as required, the elevation of any other floor.
(c) 
Complete information concerning floor depths, pressures, velocities, impact and uplift forces and other factors associated with the one-hundred-year flood.
(d) 
Detailed information concerning any proposed floodproofing measures.
(e) 
Cross-section drawings for all proposed streets, drives, other accessways and parking areas showing all rights-of-way and pavement widths.
(f) 
Profile drawings for all proposed streets, drives and vehicular accessways, including existing and proposed grades.
(g) 
Plans and profiles of all proposed sanitary and storm sewer systems, water supply systems and any other utilities and facilities.
(5) 
The following data and documentation:
(a) 
Certification from the applicant that the site upon which the activity or development is proposed is an existing separate and single parcel, owned by the applicant or the client he represents.
(b) 
Certification from a registered professional engineer, architect or landscape architect that the proposed construction has been adequately designed to protect against damage from the one-hundred-year flood.
(c) 
A statement, certified by a registered professional engineer, architect or landscape architect or other qualified person, which contains a complete and accurate description of the nature and extent of pollution that might possibly occur from the development during the course of a one-hundred-year flood, including a statement concerning the effects such pollution may have on human life.
(d) 
A statement, certified by a registered professional engineer, architect or landscape architect, which contains a complete and accurate description of the effects the proposed developments will have on one-hundred-year-flood elevations and flows.
(e) 
A statement, certified by a registered professional engineer, architect or landscape architect, which contains a complete and accurate description of kinds and amounts of any loose buoyant materials or debris that may possibly exist or be located on the site below the one-hundred-year-flood elevation and the effects such materials and debris may have on one-hundred-year-flood elevations and flows.
(f) 
The appropriate component of the Department of Environmental Protection Planning Module for Land Development.
(g) 
Where any excavation or grading is proposed, a plan meeting the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection to implement and maintain erosion and sedimentation control.
(h) 
Any other applicable permits such as, but not limited to, a permit for any activity regulated by the Department of Environmental Protection under § 302 of Act 1978-166 or most current revision.
(i) 
An evacuation plan which fully explains the manner in which the site will be safely evacuated before or during the course of a one-hundred-year flood.
C. 
Application review procedures. Upon receipt of an application for a special permit by Springettsbury Township, the following procedures shall apply in addition to all other applicable permit procedures which are already established:
(1) 
Within three working days following receipt of the application, a complete copy of the application and all accompanying documentation shall be forwarded to the York County Planning Commission by registered or certified mail for its review and recommendations. Copies of the application shall also be forwarded to Springettsbury Township Planning Commission and the Springettsbury Township Engineer for review and comment.
(2) 
If an application is received that is incomplete, Springettsbury Township shall notify the applicant, in writing, stating in what respects the application is deficient.
(3) 
If Springettsbury Township decides to disapprove an application, it shall notify the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval.
(4) 
If Springettsbury Township approves an application, it shall file written notification, together with the application and all pertinent information, with the Department of Community and Economic Development, by registered mail, within five working days after the date of approval.
(5) 
Before issuing the special permit, Springettsbury Township shall allow the Department of Community and Economic Development 30 days, after receipt of notification by the Department, to review the application and the decision made by Springettsbury Township.
(6) 
If Springettsbury Township does not receive any communications from the Department of Community and Economic Development during the thirty-day review period, it may issue a special permit to the applicant.
(7) 
If the Department of Community and Economic Development should decide to disapprove an application, it shall notify Springettsbury Township and the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval, and Springettsbury Township shall not issue the special permit.
D. 
Special technical requirements.
(1) 
In addition to any other applicable requirements, the following provisions shall also apply to the activities requiring a special permit. If there is any conflict between any of the following requirements and any otherwise applicable provision, the more restrictive provision shall apply.
(2) 
No application for a special permit shall be approved unless it can be determined that the structure or activity will be located, constructed and maintained in a manner which will:
(a) 
Fully protect the health and safety of the general public and any occupants of the structure. At a minimum, all new structures shall be designed, located and constructed so that:
[1] 
The structure will survive inundation by waters of the one-hundred-year flood without any lateral movement or damage to either the structure itself or to any of its equipment or contents below the one-hundred-year-flood elevation.
[2] 
The lowest floor elevation (including basement) will be at least 1 1/2 feet above the one-hundred-year-flood elevation.
[3] 
The occupants of the structure can remain inside for an indefinite period of time and be safely evacuated at any time during the one-hundred-year flood.
(b) 
Prevent any significant possibility of pollution, increased flood levels or flows or debris endangering life, land and property. All hydrologic and hydraulic analyses shall be undertaken only by registered professional engineers or others of demonstrated qualifications, who shall certify that the technical methods used correctly reflect currently accepted technical concepts. Studies, analyses, computations, etc. shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow a thorough technical review by Springettsbury Township and the Department of Community and Economic Development.
(c) 
Except for a possible modification of the freeboard requirement involved, no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements of this section.
A structure or use of a structure or premises which lawfully existed before the enactment of these provisions, but which is not in conformity with these provisions may be continued subject to the following conditions:
A. 
Existing structures and/or uses located in any floodway shall not be expanded or enlarged unless the effect of the proposed expansion or enlargement on flood heights is fully offset by accompanying improvements.
B. 
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed within any Floodway Area/District that would cause any increase in BFE.
C. 
The modification, alteration, repair, reconstruction or improvement of any kind to a structure and/or use regardless of its location in the floodplain district to an extent or amount of 50% or more of its market value shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provision of this and any other applicable ordinance.
D. 
The above activity shall also address the requirements of 34 Pa. Code, as amended, and the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC.
E. 
Within any Floodway Area/District (see § 325-76), no new construction or development shall be allowed, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
F. 
The requirements of 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, and the 2003 IRC (Sections R102.7.1, R105.3.1 and Appendixes E and J) or the most recent versions of this code adopted by the Township and the 2003 IBC (Sections 101.3, 3403.1 and Appendix G) the 34 Pa. Code, as amended and the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC, or the most recent versions of this code adopted by the Township shall also be utilized in conjunction with the provisions of this section.
G. 
Within any AE Area/District without Floodway (see § 325-76), no new construction or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse, unless the appropriate permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
A. 
General. If compliance with any of the requirements of this chapter would result in an exceptional hardship to a prospective builder, developer or landowner, Springettsbury Township may, upon request, grant relief from the strict application of the requirements.
B. 
Special exception and variance procedures and conditions.
(1) 
In passing upon applications for special exceptions and variances, the Zoning Hearing Board shall consider all relevant factors and procedures specified in other sections of this chapter and:
(a) 
The danger to life and property due to increased flood heights or velocities caused by encroachments.
(b) 
The danger that materials which may be swept onto other land or downstream may cause to others.
(c) 
The proposed water supply and sanitation systems and the ability of these systems to prevent disease, contamination and unsanitary conditions.
(d) 
The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the effect of such damage on the individual owners.
(e) 
The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the community.
(f) 
The requirements of the facility for a waterfront location.
(g) 
The availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding for the proposed use.
(h) 
The compatibility of the proposed use with existing development and development anticipated in the foreseeable future.
(i) 
The relationship of the proposed use to the Comprehensive Plan and floodplain management program for the area.
(j) 
The safety of access to the property in time of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles.
(k) 
The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the floodwater expected at the site.
(2) 
Such other factors which are relevant to the purposes of this article.
(3) 
No special exception or variance shall be granted in the Floodway for any proposed use, development or activity that will cause any increase in the BFE.
(4) 
Except for a possible modification of the freeboard requirements involved, no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements of § 325-79E, Development which may endanger human life, or § 325-80, Activities requiring a special permit.
(5) 
If granted, a variance shall involve only the least modification necessary to provide relief.
(6) 
In granting any special exception or variance, Springettsbury Township shall attach whatever reasonable conditions and safeguards it considers necessary in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare and to achieve the objectives of this article.
(7) 
The Zoning Hearing Board may refer any application and accompanying documentation pertaining to any request for a special exception or variance to any registered professional engineer or other qualified person or agency for technical assistance in evaluating the proposed project in relation to flood heights and velocities and the adequacy of the plans for protection and other related matters.
(8) 
Special exceptions and variance shall only be issued after the Zoning Hearing Board has determined that the granting of such will not result in:
(a) 
Unacceptable or prohibited increases in flood heights,
(b) 
Additional threats to public safety.
(c) 
Extraordinary public expense.
(d) 
Nuisance creation.
(e) 
Fraud or victimization of the public.
(f) 
Conflict with local laws or ordinances.
(9) 
Whenever a variance is applied for, Springettsbury Township shall notify the applicant, in writing, that:
(a) 
The granting of the variance may result in increased premium rates for flood insurance.
(b) 
Such variances may increase the risks to life and property.
(10) 
A complete record of all special exception and variance requests and related actions shall be maintained by Springettsbury Township. In addition, a report of all variances granted during the year shall be included in the annual report to the Federal Insurance Administration.
C. 
Notwithstanding the above, however, all structures shall be designed and constructed so as to have a capability of resisting the one-percent annual chance flood.