The provisions of this chapter do not require any changes or improvements to be made to lawfully existing structures. However, when an improvement is made to any existing structure, the provisions of §
131-31 shall apply.
The following provisions shall apply whenever any improvement
is made to an existing structure located within any identified floodplain
area:
A. No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed
within any identified floodplain area (except for AE Area/Districts
where a floodway has been established) that would cause any increase
in BFE.
B. Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any
kind to an existing structure to an extent or amount of 50% or more
of its market value shall constitute a substantial improvement and
shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of
this chapter.
C. The above activity shall also address the requirements of the 34
Pa. Code, as amended, and the 2009 IBC and the 2009 IRC or the most
recently adopted building code.
D. Within any Floodway Area/District (See § 131-184A.), no
new construction or development shall be allowed, unless the appropriate
permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection
Regional Office.
E. Within any AE Area/District without floodway (See §
131-18B.), no new construction or development shall be located within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
F. Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any
kind to an existing structure to an extent or amount of less than
50% of its market value shall be elevated and/or floodproofed to the
greatest extent possible.
G. Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any
kind that meets the definition of "cumulative substantial damage"
shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of
this chapter.
[Amended 3-21-2017 by Ord. No. 2017-01]