[Amended 4-21-2008]
A. 
Intent. The intent of this article is to:
(1) 
Promote the general health, welfare, and safety of the community.
(2) 
Encourage the utilization of appropriate construction practices in order to prevent or minimize flood damage in the future.
(3) 
Minimize danger to public health by protecting water supply and natural drainage.
(4) 
Reduce financial burdens imposed on the community, its governmental units, and its residents by preventing excessive development in areas subject to flooding.
(5) 
Comply with federal and state floodplain management requirements.[1]
[1]
Former Subsections B, C and D, regarding applicability, abrogation and greater restrictions, and severability, respectively, were repealed 9-20-2010. The ordinance that repealed these subsections also provided for the redesignation of former Subsection E as Subsection B.
B. 
Warning and disclaimer of liability.
(1) 
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. 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 any identified floodplain areas, or land uses permitted within such areas, will be free from flooding or flood damages.
(2) 
This article shall not create liability on the part of the 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.
[Amended 9-20-2010]
A. 
Building permits required. Building permits shall be required before any construction or development is undertaken within any area of the Township.
B. 
Issuance of building permit.
(1) 
The Building Permit Officer shall issue a building 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.
(2) 
Prior to the issuance of any zoning permit, the Building Permit Officer shall review the application for the permit to determine if all other necessary government permits required by state and federal laws have been obtained, such as those required by the Pennsylvania Sewage Facilities Act[1] (Act 1966-537, as amended); the Pennsylvania Dam Safety and Encroachments Act[2] (Act 1978-325, as amended); the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Act[3] (Act 1937-394, as amended); 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
[2]
Editor's Note: See 32 P.S. 693.1 et seq.
[3]
Editor's Note: See 35 P.S. 691.1 et seq.
(3) 
In the case of existing structures, prior to the issuance of any zoning permit, the Development/Building Permit Officer shall review the history of repairs to the subject building, so that any repetitive loss issues can be addressed before the permit is issued.
(4) 
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 Township and until all required permits or approvals have been first obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office. In addition, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development shall be notified by the Township prior to any alteration or relocation of any watercourse.
C. 
Application procedures and requirements.
(1) 
If any proposed construction or development is located entirely or partially within any identified floodplain area, applicants for building permits shall provide all the necessary information in sufficient detail and clarity to enable the Building Permit 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.
(2) 
Applicants shall file the following minimum information plus any other pertinent information as may be required by the Building Permit Officer to make the above determination:
(a) 
A completed building 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 direction and velocities.
(c) 
Plans of all proposed buildings, structures and other improvements, drawn at suitable scale showing the following:
[1] 
The proposed lowest floor elevation 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; and
[4] 
Detailed information concerning any proposed floodproofing measures.
[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.
(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 § 250-56D(6), Storage, and § 250-56E, Development which may endanger human life, including:
[a] 
The amount, location and purpose of any materials or substances referred to in § 250-56D(6) and E 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 § 250-56E 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 of grading is proposed, a plan meeting the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection to implement and maintain erosion and sedimentation control.
D. 
Review by County Conservation District. A copy of all applications and plans for any proposed construction or development in any identified floodplain area to be considered for approval shall be submitted by the Building Permit Officer to the County Conservation District for review and comment prior to the issuance of a building permit. The recommendations of the Conservation District shall be considered by the Building Permit Officer for possible incorporation into the proposed plan.
E. 
Review of application by others. A copy of all plans and applications for any proposed construction or development in any identified floodplain area to be considered for approval may be submitted by the Building Permit Officer to any other appropriate agencies and/or individuals (e.g., Planning Commission, Municipal Engineer, etc.) for review and comment.[4]
[4]
Editor's Note: Former Subsections F, G, H, J, K and L, regarding changes to building permits, placards, start of construction, fees, enforcement, and appeals, respectively, were repealed 9-20-2010. The ordinance that repealed these subsections also provided for the redesignation of former Subsection I as Subsection F.
F. 
Inspection and revocation.
(1) 
During the construction period, the Building Permit Officer 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 shall make as many inspections during and upon completion of the work as are necessary.
(2) 
In the discharge of his duties, the Building Permit 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 Building Permit Officer 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 Building Permit Officer shall revoke the building permit and report such fact to the Board 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 the 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 (R106.1.3, 109.1.3 and R104.7) or latest revisions thereof pertaining to elevation certificates and record retention shall be considered.
A. 
Identification. The identified floodplain area shall be any areas of Mahoning Township, subject to the one-hundred-year flood, which is identified as Zone A (Area of Special Flood Hazard) in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) dated May 16, 2008, and the accompanying maps or the most recent revision thereof as issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, including all digital data developed as part of the Flood Insurance Study.
B. 
Description of floodplain areas. The identified floodplain area shall consist of the following specific areas:
(1) 
FW (Floodway Area): the areas identified as "Floodway" in the AE Zone in the Flood Insurance Study prepared by the FEMA. 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.
(2) 
FF (Flood-Fringe Area): the remaining portions of the one-hundred-year floodplain in those areas identified as an AE Zone in the Flood Insurance Study, where a floodway has been delineated. The basis for the outermost boundary of this area shall be the one-hundred-year flood elevations as shown in the flood profiles contained in the Flood Insurance Study.
(3) 
FA (General Floodplain Area): the areas identified as Zone A in the FIS for which no one-hundred-year flood elevations have been provided. When available, information from other federal, state, and other acceptable sources shall be used to determine the one-hundred-year elevation, as well as a floodway area, if possible. When no other information is available, the one-hundred-year elevation shall be determined by using a point on the boundary of the identified floodplain area which is nearest the construction site in question. 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 Township.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Subsection C, regarding changes in identification of area, was repealed 9-20-2010. The ordinance that repealed this subsection also provided for the redesignation of former Subsection D as Subsection C.
C. 
Boundary disputes. Should a dispute concerning any identified floodplain boundary arise, an initial determination shall be made by the Township Planning Commission and any party aggrieved by this decision or determination may appeal to the Board. The burden of proof shall be on the appellant.
A. 
General.
(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 been first obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office. In addition, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development shall be notified prior to any alteration or relocation of any watercourse.
(2) 
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.
B. 
Special requirements for FW, FE and FA Areas.
(1) 
With any FW (Floodway Area), the following provisions apply:
(a) 
Any new construction, development, use, activity, or encroachment that would cause any increase in flood heights shall be prohibited.
(b) 
No new construction or development shall be allowed, unless a permit is obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection Regional Office.
(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.
C. 
Elevation and floodproofing requirements.
(1) 
Residential structures. Within any identified floodplain area, any new construction or substantial improvement of a residential structure shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation. The design and construction standards and specifications contained in the 2003 IBC (Sections 1612.4, 1603.1.6 and 3403.1) and in the 2003 IRC (Sections R323.1.4, R323.2.1, and R323.2.2) and ASCE 24 (Sections 2.4 and 2.5, Chap. 5) and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) shall be utilized.
(2) 
Nonresidential structures.
(a) 
Within any identified floodplain area, 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 by such structure shall remain either completely or essentially dry during any flood up to that height.
(b) 
Any nonresidential structure, or part thereof, having a lowest floor which is not elevated to at least 1 1/2 feet above the one-hundred-year flood elevation shall be floodproofed in a completely or essentially dry manner in accordance with the WI 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.
(c) 
The design and construction standards and specifications contained in the IBC (Sections 1603.1.2, 1603.1.6, 1605.2.2, 1606.5, 1612.5.1 and 3403.1) and ASCE 24 (Sections 2.4 and Chap. 7) and 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended) shall be utilized.
(3) 
Space below the lowest floor.
(a) 
Fully enclosed space below the lowest floor (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 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 1203.3.3).
(4) 
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 relative to the principal use or activity.
(b) 
Floor area shall not exceed 600 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 at least 1 1/2 feet above the one-hundred-year 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 or 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.
D. 
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 two horizontal feet unless substantiated data justifying steeper slopes are submitted to and approved by the Building Permit Officer; and
(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) 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 insure 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), the ASCE 24-98 (Section 8.3), FEMA #348, Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damages 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 no more than one foot below the regulatory flood elevation.
(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 § 250-56E, 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) 
Placement of buildings and structures. 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 G501.3), the IRC (Sections R301.1 and R323.J.1) 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) and ASCE 24-98 (Chapter 6).
(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 wooden components (doors, trim, cabinets, etc.) shall be finished with a marine or water-resistant paint or other finishing material.
(d) 
The standards and specifications contained in 34 Pa. Code (Chapters 401 through 405, as amended), the 2003 IBC (Sections 801.1.3, 1403.7 and Appendix G) and the 2003 IRC (Section R323.1.7) 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) 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 provision 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) 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 floodwaters into the system and discharges from the system into floodwaters. Additional provisions shall be made for the drainage of these systems in the event that floodwater infiltration occurs.
(14) 
Uniform Construction Code coordination. The standards and specifications contained 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:
(a) 
International Building Code (IBC) 2003 or the latest edition thereof: Sections 801, 1202, 1403, 1603, 1605, 1612, 3402, and Appendix G.
(b) 
International Residential Building Code (IRC) 2003 or the latest edition thereof: Sections R104, R105, R109, R323, Appendix AE101, Appendix E and Appendix J.
E. 
Development which may endanger human life.
(1) 
In accordance with the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act,[1] 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 dangerous materials or substances; or will be used for any activity requiring the maintenance of a supply of more than 550 gallons, or other comparable volume, of any of the following dangerous materials or substances on the premises; or will involve the production, storage, or use of any amount of radioactive substances shall be subject to the provisions of this section, in addition to all other applicable provisions. The following list of materials and substances are considered dangerous to human life:
(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 of 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.
[1]
Editor's Note: See 32 P.S. 679.101 et seq.
(2) 
Within any FW (Floodway Area), any structure of the kind described in Subsection E(1) above shall be prohibited.
(3) 
Where permitted within any floodplain area, any new or substantially improved structure of the kind described in Subsection E(1) above shall be:
(a) 
Elevated or designed and constructed to remain completely dry up to at least 1 1/2 feet above the one-hundred-year flood; and
(b) 
Designed to prevent pollution from the structure or activity during the course of a one-hundred-year flood.
(4) 
Any such structure, or part thereof, that will be built below the regulatory flood elevation shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the standards for completely dry floodproofing contained in the publication "Flood-Proofing Regulations (U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, June 1972, as amended March 1992), or with some other equivalent watertight standard.
F. 
Special requirements for manufactured homes.
(1) 
Within any FW (Floodway Area), manufactured homes shall be prohibited.
(2) 
Within any FA (General Floodplain Area) or FE (Special Floodplain Area), manufactured homes shall be prohibited within the area measured 50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
(3) 
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.
(d) 
Installation of manufactured homes shall be done in accordance with the manufacturer's 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.
(e) 
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 AE 101, 604 and 605) or the most recent revisions thereto and 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, where appropriate and/or applicable to units where the manufacturer's standards for anchoring cannot be provided or were not established for the unit's proposed installation.
A. 
General. In accordance with the administrative regulations promulgated by the Department of Community and Economic Development to implement the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act,[1] the following activities shall be prohibited within any identified floodplain area unless a special permit has been issued by the Township.
(1) 
The commencement of any of the following activities, or the construction, enlargement, or expansion of any structure used, or intended to be used, for any of the following activities:
(a) 
Hospitals.
(b) 
Nursing homes.
(c) 
Jails or prisons.
(2) 
The commencement of, or any construction of, a new manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision, or substantial improvement to an existing manufactured home park or manufactured home subdivision.
[1]
Editor's Note:: 32 P.S. 679.101 et seq.
B. 
Application requirements for special permits. Applicants for special permits shall provide five copies of the following items:
(1) 
A written request, including a completed building 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 upon the North American Vertical Datum of 1929, 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, and 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; and
(h) 
Any other information which the municipality considers necessary for adequate review of the application.
(4) 
Plans 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 flood 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; and
(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, 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 development 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 the 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's "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 Section 302 of Act 1978-166; and
(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 the Township, the following procedures shall apply in addition to those of § 250-54:
(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 County Planning Commission by registered or certified mail for its review and recommendations. Copies of the application shall also be forwarded to the Township Planning Commission and Township Engineer for review and comment.
(2) 
If an application is received that is incomplete, the Township shall notify the applicant in writing, stating in what respect the application is deficient.
(3) 
If the Township decides to disapprove an application, it shall notify the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval.
(4) 
If the 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 or certified mail, within five working days after the date of approval.
(5) 
Before issuing the special permit, the Township shall allow the Department of Community and Economic Development 30 days after receipt of the notification by the Department to review the application and decision made by the Township.
(6) 
If the Township does not receive any communication 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 the Township and the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval, and the Township shall not issue the special permit.
D. 
Special technical requirements. In addition to the requirements of § 250-56 of this article, the following minimum requirements shall also apply to any proposed development requiring a special permit. If there is any conflict between any of the following requirements and those in § 250-56 of this article or in any other code, ordinance, or regulation, the more restrictive provision shall apply.
(1) 
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 (including basement) elevation 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 and property.
(2) 
All 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 Township and the Department of Community and Economic Development.
A. 
Existing structures. The provisions of this article 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 Subsection B shall apply.
B. 
Improvements. The following provisions shall apply whenever any improvement is made to an existing structure located within any identified floodplain area:
(1) 
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed within any floodway area that would cause any increase in the elevation of the one-hundred-year flood.
(2) 
No expansion or enlargement of an existing structure shall be allowed within any FE Area that would, together with all other existing and anticipated development, increase the one-hundred-year flood elevation more than one foot at any point.
(3) 
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 article. The above activity shall also address the requirements of the 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, and the 2003 IBC (Sections 3402.1 and 1612.4) and the 2003 IRC (Section 323.1.4).
(4) 
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.
(5) 
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction, or improvement of any kind that meets the definition of "repetitive loss" shall be undertaken only in full compliance with the provisions of this article.
(6) 
The requirements of 34 Pa. Code Chapters 401 through 405, as amended, and the 2003 IRC (Sections R102.7.1, R105.3.1 and Appendices E and J) or the latest revision thereof and the 2003 IBC (Sections 101.3, 3403.1 and Appendix G) or the latest revision thereof shall also be utilized in conjunction with the provisions of this section.
A. 
General. If compliance with any of the requirements of this article would result in an exceptional hardship to a prospective builder, developer or landowner, the Township may, upon request, grant relief from the strict application of the requirements.
B. 
Variance procedures and conditions.
(1) 
Requests for variances shall be considered by the Township in accordance with the procedures contained in § 250-77C and the following:
[Amended 9-20-2010]
(a) 
No variance shall be granted for any construction, development, use, or activity within any floodway area that would cause any increase in the one-hundred-year flood elevation.
(b) 
No variance shall be granted for any construction, development, use, or activity within any FE Area that would, together with all other existing and anticipated development, increase the one-hundred-year flood elevation more than one foot at any point.
(c) 
Except for a possible modification of the one-and-one-half-foot freeboard requirement involved, no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements pertaining specifically to development regulated by special permit § 250-57 or to Development which may endanger human life § 250-56E.
(d) 
If granted, a variance shall involve only the least modification necessary to provide relief.
(e) 
In granting any variance, the 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.
(f) 
Whenever a variance is granted, the Township shall notify the applicant in writing that:
[1] 
The granting of the variance may result in increased premium rates for flood insurance.
[2] 
Such variances may increase the risks to life and property.
(g) 
In reviewing any request for a variance, the Township shall consider, at a minimum, the following:
[1] 
That there is good and sufficient cause.
[2] 
That failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship to the applicant.
[3] 
That the granting of the variance will neither result in an unacceptable or prohibited increase in flood heights, additional threats to public safety, or extraordinary public expense, nor create nuisances, cause fraud on, or victimize the public, or conflict with any other applicable state or local ordinances and regulations.
(h) 
A complete record of all variance requests and related actions shall be maintained by the Township. In addition, a report of all variances granted during the year shall be included in the annual report to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(2) 
Notwithstanding any of the above, however, all structures shall be designed and constructed so as to have the capability of resisting the one-hundred-year flood.
[1]
Editor's Note: Former § 250-60, Definitions, was repealed 9-20-2010.