FEMA 480

As directed in the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, FEMA conducts flood studies in order to determine _____ and _____.

flood-prone areas, flood risk zones

An approximate study shows the base _______ but does not show the base flood ______.

floodplain, elevation

The _____ is defined as the stream channel and that portion of the adjacent floodplain that must remain open to permit passage of the base flood.

floodway

In riverine situations, the floodplain is divided into 2 separate parts for floodplain management purposes. These parts are the ______ and the _____.

floodway, flood fringe

For purposes of a riverine flood study, _____ is the study of the distribution and circulation of water in the environment, and _____ is the study of fluids in motion and how water will flow through the channel.

hydrology, hydraulics

Floodways are shown along the ____________ toe of a levee on the FIRM.

landside

Prior to 1986, the maps published with an FIS are the _____ and the _____. Since 1986, the map published with an FIS is the ______

old format FIRM, FBFM (Floodway Map), new format FIRM

The base flood is a flood that has a ______ of occurring in in any year

one percent chance

Cross sections describe the _____ of the floodplain.

shape

On NFIP maps, the 100-year floodplain is called the _____ _____ _____ _____.

special flood hazard area

The BFEs for coastal studies are the _____ _____ plus the _____ _____.

stillwater elevations, wave runup

To make a floodplain map, the base flood elevations are plotted on a _____ map or a _____ map.

topographic, contour

Instead of cross sections, coastal flood engineers survey _____ .

transects

What FIRM zone have wave heights greater than 3 feet?

v Zone

Most of the requirements relative to your community's ordinance are in 44 CFR Parts _____ and _____.

59, 60

What's the NFIP definition of "basement?"

"Basement" means any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below ground level) on all sides.

What factors are considered when determining market value?

"The price a willing buyer and seller agree upon." Factors to consider are the building's original quality, subsequent improvements, age, and current condition.

What is the maximum amount of contents coverage I can get for a single family dwelling?

$100,000

Which of the following programs is likely to require a flood insurance policy as a condition of financial assistance? -Department of Veteran Affairs mortgage loan guarantees -HUD Community Development Block Grants -Federal disaster assistance -Home improvement loans from a bank participating in FDIC -Mortgage from a federal credit union

-Department of Veteran Affairs mortgage loan guarantees - yes -HUD Community Development Block Grants - yes -Federal disaster assistance - yes -Home improvement loans from a bank participating in FDIC - yes -Mortgage from a federal credit union - yes

What are the 2 key factors in rating Post-FIRM buildings?

1 FIRM Zone 2. The lowest floor's elevation in relation to the BFE

A floodway analysis conducted to the minimum NFIP standard allows the fringe to be obstructed until the base flood level is increase by how much?

1 foot

Based on the minimum NFIP standard, if the flood fringe were completely filled, how high could the base flood elevation go up?

1 foot

What legal resources do you and your attorney have to bring a violation into compliance?

1. A fine (that can increase for each day the violation continues) 2. Recording the violation in the property's deed 3. A court injunction to stop work

What five items need to be checked to ensure an application for a person is complete?

1. All forms are completed and signed 2. Site, grading building, etc. plans are complete 3. All necessary certifications are provided 4. All necessary state and federal permits are being obtained 5. Copies of the application are forwarded to other departments for review

Can I buy flood insurance policy with building coverage on the following? 1. An apartment building 2. A septic tank 3. An open sided park pavilion 4. A motor home 5. A boat dock 6. A mobile home on foundation in a mobile home park 7. A flower garden

1. An apartment building - yes 2. A septic tank - no 3. An open sided park pavilion - no 4. A motor home - no, unless it's permanently attached to a foundation 5. A boat dock - no 6. A mobile home on foundation in a mobile home park - yes 7. A flower garden - no

What are 3 good sources for obtaining the market value of a house?

1. An independent appraisal by a professional appraiser 2. Detailed estimates of the structure's actual cash value (the replacement cost for a building, minus a depreciation percentage based on age and condition). 3.Property appraisals used for tax assessment purposes with an adjustment recommended by the tax appraiser to reflect market conditions (adjusted assessed value) 4. The value of buildings taken from NFIP claims data (usually actual cash value) 5. Qualified estimates based on sound professional judgement made by the staff of the local building department or tax assessor's office

What are the 3 categories of building condition that are determined during the building condition survey?

1. Apparently safe: No exterior signs of structural damage. People can be allowed back in, but the will need building permits for repairs. 2. Building obviously substantially damaged: The flood swept the building away, it has collapsed or it is missing one or more walls. The building cannot be reoccupied without major structural work. 3. Could be substantial damage: The building may be substantially damaged, but such damage is not obvious.

What are the 2 types of flood insurance coverage available?

1. Building coverage 2. Contents coverage

Site E is in the approximate A Zone of Dean Lake. A developer wants to build a small commercial building on a 3 acre site. Where do you get a base flood elevation for site E?

1. Check with your state NFIP coordinator, local water-related districts, the Corps of Engineers, etc. to see if there are any existing studies. 2. It is possible that the highway agency did a study of the stream when the Turnpike bridge was built. 3. See if the Town Engineer or developer's engineer will conduct a study. 4. Use the flood of record plus a margin of protection.

Mr. Johnson prepared a list of everything he has to do the repair his flooded home. Which of the following items are counted toward the cost of repairs when determining substantial damage? What is the dollar amount that should be counted?

1. Clearing broken trees and debris away from the house ($2,500) - $0 2. Replacing the warped flooring ($3,000) - $3,000 3. New doors ($1,000) to replace old ones (worth $500) 4. Replacing the old kitchen cabinets (valued at $5,000) with custom hardwood cabinets valued at $15,000 - $15,000 5. New wall to wall carpeting ($1,800) - $1,800 6. New furniture ($12,000) - $0 (not part of the structure) 7. New wiring ($2,000) to bring the building up to current code (This is a standard requirement of the community. The building was not cited as having a code violation) - $2,000 8. Permit fee ($500) - $0 9. Clean out and test the furnace (done free as a public service by the utility company, but otherwise worth $250 if done by a private contractor) - $250 10. New bushes and replacement fence ($1,500) - $0 (not part of the structure)

List the five types of special flood hazards covered in this course.

1. Closed basin 2. Uncertain flow paths 3. Dam breaks 4. Ice Jams 5. Mudflows

Who uses NFIP maps?

1. Communities, states, and federal agencies use them as the basis for regulating new flood-prone construction 2. Insurance agents use them when rating food insurance policies 3. Lenders and federal agencies use them to determine when flood insurance must be purchased as a condition of a loan or financial assistance

What 2 problems result from floodplain development?

1. Development alters the floodplain and the dynamics of flooding 2. Building and infrastructures are damaged by periodic flooding

What are some of the safety and health hazards that accompany floods?

1. Disruption of public utilities 2. Electrocution 3. Contamination of water supplies 4. Fire 5. Animal carcasses, garbage, and ponds can become breeding grounds for germs and mosquitoes 6. Mold, mildew, and bacteria that grow in damp, flooded areas 7. Contaminated air from dirty heating ducts 8. Stress and mental health problems

What are the advantages of using the FEMA Elevation Certificate as a record of a building's lowest floor elevation?

1. It includes all the data needed for NFIP compliance 2. It meets the requirements of the Community Rating System 3. It is needed by insurance agents to write a policy

What are the four situations when a record of an engineer's or surveyor's certification is needed?

1. Elevation certificate: needed for new substantially improved buildings that are elevated in the SFHA 2. Floodproofing certificate: needed for new or substantially improved non-residential buildings that are floodproofed 3. V Zone certification: needed for new or substantially improved buildings in V Zones No-rise certification: needed for development projects in floodways (or its equivalent in riverine floodplains where the floodway has not been mapped)

What should you check for during the third inspection?

1. Ensure that the foundation and floor elevation have not been altered since the second inspection 2. Obtain an as-built elevation or floodproofing certificate 3. Verify that enclosures below the lowest level have adequate openings 4. Ensure that nothing subject to flood damage, such as a furnace or air conditioning unit, has been located below the lowest floor 5. Check breakawy walls in the V Zone 6. Check for floodway encroachments 7. Check the anchoring system used in securing manufactured homes

What are the sanctions if a community does not participate in the NFIP?

1. Flood insurance will not be available. No resident will be able to purchase a flood insurance policy through the NFIP. 2. If the community withdraws or is suspended, existing flood insurance will not be renewed. 3. No federal grants or loans for development may be made in the identified flood hazard areas under programs administered by federal agencies such as HUD, EPA, and SBA. 4. No federal disaster assistance may be provided to repair insurable buildings located in identified flood hazard areas for damage caused by a flood. 5. No federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees may be provided in identified flood hazard areas. This includes policies written by FHA, VA, and others. 6. Federally insured or regulated lending institutions, such as banks and credit unions, must notify applicants seeking loans for insurable buildings in flood hazard areas that: a. there is a flood hazard and b. the property is not eligible for federal disaster relief

What documentations will be needed to in order to determine if the project should be built in the flood plain? New house in the fringe

1. Floodplain development permit application 2. Site and/or building plans

What documentations will be needed to in order to determine if the project should be built in the flood plain? New shopping center parking lot in the floodway

1. Floodplain development permit application 2. Site and/or building plans 3. Floodway encroachment analysis

What documentations will be needed to in order to determine if the project should be built in the flood plain? New house built over a floodable, but enclosed garage

1. Floodplain development permit application 2. Site and/or building plans 3. Non-conversion certification

What documentations will be needed to in order to determine if the project should be built in the flood plain? New business in the V Zone

1. Floodplain development permit application 2. Site and/or building plans 3. V Zone certification

What are the four situations where a certificate will be needed before a floodplain development permit can be issued?

1. Floodway encroachment analysis 2. Engineer's certification of floodproofing desiign 3. Non-conversion agreement for enclosed lower areas 4. V Zone design certification

The new FIRMs include:

1. Floodways and floodplain management information 2. Simplified flood insurance zones

What are your 2 options for making sure a new building is high enough before you allow construction to proceed after the second inspection?

1. Have the builder provide an elevation certification 2. Check the elevation yourself during the second inspection

A developer downstream of Dean Lake wants to build a 40 acre subdivision that crosses Ireland Creek. You need a base flood elevation before you review the plans. What options do you tell the developer he has?

1. He can conduct a flood study and produce the BFEs at his expense. 2. He can set the A Zone aside as open space and not conduct a flood study.

You deny an application to build a house in the floodplain because the plans show a proposed basement 6' below the BFE. What recourse does the applicant now have?

1. He can drop the idea and withdraw the application 2. He can redesign the house so the lowest floor (including basement) is above the required flood protection level 3. He can appeal to the Board of Appeals if he thinks you misread or misinterpreted the requirements 4. He can apply for a variance to allow the basement

Name 2 types of floodprone areas where many communities prohibit development.

1. High hazard areas, such as flash flood areas and very deep floodways 2. Natural or sensitive areas, such as wetlands

What areas are conducive to flash flooding?

1. Hilly areas with steep slopes and narrow valleys 2. Urban areas with large amounts of impervious surfaces and storm sewers 3. Areas downstream of dams or subject to jams

Name 2 situations where special exceptions may be granted for a variance.

1. Historic buildings 2. Functionally dependent uses

What are the five main causes of flood damage?

1. Hydrodynamic forces 2. Debris impact 3. Hydrostatic forces 4. Soaking 5. Sediment and contaminants

What can FEMA do to encourage a community to adequately enforce its floodplain management regulations?

1. If the community is in the Community Rating , it can reclassify it to a Class 10 (no insurance premium discount). 2. The community can be put on probation. 3. The community can be suspended.

List 2 things your community committed itself to when it joined the NFIP.

1. Issuing or denying floodplain development/building permits 2. Inspecting all development to assure compliance with the local ordinance 3. Maintaining records of floodplain development 4. Assisting in the preparation and revision of floodplain maps 5. Helping residents obtain information on flood hazards, floodplain map data, flood insurance, and proper construction measures

What are the guidelines of multi-level management?

1. Keep the effort locally based 2. Understand the flood problem and its relation to the watershed 3. Think broadly about possible solutions to reduce the flood problem 4. Identify the other community concerns and goals that could have a bearing on the flood problem 5. Obtain expert advice and assistance from government agencies and private organizations 6. Build a partnership among the private and public groups and individuals that can be enlisted to work on the agencies

Who can help you make sure people don't reoccupy damaged buildings before they have passed an inspection?

1. Make sure that utility companies won't turn service back on unless there is an "Approved to Connect" sign posted on the building 2. Instruct police and other departments about the permit requirements and ask them to report to you any construction projects under way without posted permit signs 3. Get the news media to help spread the word on the requirements and why they are needed

What are the 3 basic parts of the NFIP?

1. Mapping 2. Insurance 3. Regulations

What are the Unified National Program for Floodplain Management's 4 main floodplain management strategies?

1. Modify human susceptibility to flood damage 2. Modify the impact of flooding 3. Modify flooding itself 4. Preserve and restore natural resources

Where can you get technical help in planning and implementing a mitigation program?

1. National Park Service's Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program 2. The soil and water conservation district 3. Natural Resources Conservation Service 4. Cooperative Extension Service 5. Watershed. stormwater management, or flood control districts 6. Regional or metropolitan water, sewer, or sanitary districts 7. Regional planning commissions and councils of government 8. The state or county emergency management or civil defense agency 9. The state natural resources or water resources agency 10. Local watershed councils or associations 11. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 12. Association of State Floodplain Managers 13. Floodplain Management Resources Center

Will a developer in an approximate A Zone have to prepare a detailed study to calculate base flood elevations if the development is: 1. 4 acres? 2. 60 lots? 3. Reserving all the SFHA as open space?

1. No 2. Yes 3. No

What are the 2 types of grants available through the Flood Mitigation Assistance Program?

1. Planning grants to help develop or update a flood mitigation plan 2. Project grants to implement projects in conformance with flood mitigation plan

What are the 6 basic strategies of flood hazard mitigation measures?

1. Prevention 2. Property protection 3. Natural resource protection 4. Emergency services 5. Structural projects 6. Public information

List some of the sources of financial assistance that are available for a mitigation program.

1. Property owners willing to cost share on projects that help them 2. FEMA's Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 3. FEMA's Public/Infrastructure Program 4. FEMA's Human Services programs 5. FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

What are examples of non-structural flood protection measures?

1. Regulations to prohibit development in high-hazard areas 2. Building codes requiring flood-resistant construction for new buildings in flood-prone areas 3. Acquisition and relocation of buildings in high hazard areas 4. Modifying or retrofitting existing buildings 5. Installing flood warning systems 6. Controlling storm-water runoff 7. Providing self-help advice to property owners

What kind of projects need a permit so you can check to see if they would be substantial improvements?

1. Remodeling projects 2. Rehabilitation projects 3. Building additions

What are some of the benefits of joining the Community Rating System?

1. Residents get reduced flood insurance premiums 2. The community's flood program received recognition from a nation evaluation program 3. Technical assistance in designing and implementing some activities is available at no charge from ISO 4. It encourages the community to maintain its program during times of diminished interest in flood issues

What sources of assistance are there to help your post disaster permit operations?

1. State NFIP coordinator 2. FEMA Regional Office 3. State building code agency 4. Model building code organization 5. Local or state health department 6. Cooperative Extension Service 7. Other communities willing to provide mutual aid 8. Building officials association

Name two higher regulatory standards that can be used to encourage building sites completely out of the floodplain?

1. Subdivision design that encourages cluster development on high ground 2. Low density zoning that gives owners large lots large enough to avoid small floodplains

What are the components of a Flood Insurance Study?

1. The FIS - Flood Insurance Study report 2. The FIRM - Flood Insurance Rate Map 3. The Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, which is included in studies prepared before 1986 (Since 1986, floodways are shown on the FIRM)

Mr. Wilson is applying for a variance to build his house below the BFE. What 2 tings must you tell him (in writing)?

1. The issuance of a variance to construct below the base flood level will result in increased premium rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as $25 for $100 of insurance coverage 2. Such construction below the base flood level increases risks to life and property

What should you check for during the first site visit?

1. The location of the floodplain and floodway boundaries 2. Setbacks from lot lines, channel banks, etc 3. Floodway encroachments, if applicable

What records should be kept in your permit file?

1. The permit application for and all attachments, including the site plan 2. All correspondences pertinent to the project 3. Flood and floodway data prepared by the developer 4. Engineering analyses of floodway encroachments and watercourse alterations 5. Special engineering designs for enclosures below the BFE 6. In coastal high hazard areas, engineering certifications of designs and construction methods of new and substantially improved buildings 7. In coastal high hazard areas, certification of specially designed breakaway walls 8. Any variances or appeals proceedings 9. Records of inspections of the project while under construction 10. Documentation of the as-build lowest floor elevation of all new and substantially improved buildings 11. Certification of the elevation to which any nonresidential building has been floodproofed 12. Certificates of compliance or occupancy

What are the key items you need to check when reviewing the plans for a new house to be built on piling in the V Zone?

1. The proper elevation of the lowest floor 2. Whether there will be an enclosures below the elevated floor 3. The V Zone certification signed by a registered professional architect or engineer 4. The materials used in the area below the BFE

What are the key items you need to check when reviewing the plans for a new house to be built on a slab foundation on fill in the fringe?

1. The proposed elevation of the lowest floor 2. Your building code should also require you to make sure the fill will be properly compacted and protected form erosion and will not cause local drainage problems on neighboring properties

What are the objectives of a building condition survey?

1. To determine if any building is so dangerous that it should not be reentered without a careful inspection 2. To determine which buildings will need a floodplain development permit before they can be repaired or reoccupied

What are the two primary goals of floodplain management?

1. To reduce the loss of life, disruption, and damage caused by floods 2. To preserve and restore the natural resources and functions of floodplains

When you inspect a flooded building to determine if the structure is substantially damaged, which of the following items should you check?

1. Walls and ceiling 2. Foundation 3. Deck or porch 4. Ductwork 5. Water heater 6. Kitchen cabinets 7. All of the above need to be checked because the NFIP considers all of them part of the building's structure

Name 3 types of regulations that can protect natural resources in your flood plains.

1. Wetland protection regulation 2. Habitat protection regulations 3. Restrictions on on-site sewage disposal 4. Water quality regulations and rules

List 3 things that a FIRM is used to determine.

1. Whether a property is in the floodplain 2. The flood insurance zone that applies to a property 3. The approximate BFE at the site

List 3 materials or household items that are particularly susceptible to flood damage by soaking.

1. Wood 2. Gypsum wallboard 3. Furniture and upholstery 4. Carpeting 5. Mattresses 6. Books 7. Electrical appliances 8. Gasoline engines

An encroachment review should review projects in a floodway for what 2 things?

1. You must determine whether the project will obstruct flood flows and cause an increase in flood heights upstream or adjacent to the project site 2. You should determine whether the project will result in increases in down-stream flooding by removing an existing obstruction.. While you are not required to do this by NFIP minimum requirements, these changes can cumulatively cause significant increases in downstream flooding.

Which of the following items must be included when calculating the cost of am improvement project? 1. Attached deck 2. Plumbing 3. Permit fees 4. Contractor's overhead and profit 5. Architect's plans 6. Landscaping 7. Built-in bookcase

1. yes 2. yes 3. no 4. yes 5. no 6. no 7. yes

The base flood is also called the _____ year flood.

100

the base flood elevation is the elevation of the _____-year flood or the _____ % annual chance flood.

100. 1

How many standard 8"x16" openings are needed for a building that will have a 2,250 square foot crawlspace?

18. 2,250 divided by 128 = 17.57, rounded up to 18

Standing water as little as _____ feet deep can collapse the walls of a frame house.

3

In what part of the Code of Federal Regulations would you find the definition for "development?"

44 CFR 59.1 Definitions

Which part of 44 CFR 60.3 covers the requirements for areas with a FIRM, but no base flood elevations?

44 CFR 60.3 (b)

Where do I find the NFIP requirements fro areas mapped with V Zones?

44 CFR 60.3 (e)

If a regulatory requirement prohibits an owner from any use of his land, it is referred to by the legal term _____.

Taking

What's the best record to keep to be sure that a house was elevated high enough?

A FEMA Elevation Certificate. Any surveyor's or engineer's record of the elevation of the lowest floor meets the NFIP requirements, but the FEMA form is recommended.

What is a pre-FIRM building?

A building built before the effective date of the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map.

If a project meets all of the ordinance requirements and is built according to the approved plans, what does the owner get are the final inspection?

A certificate of occupancy, certificate of compliance, use permit or other official document that allows the building to be occupied or used

What is the Unified National Program for Floodplain Management's definition of "floodplain management?"

A decision-making process that aims to achieve the wise use of the nation's floodplains

What consequences on flood water level of a stream would usually occur when a bridge is constructed over a stream?

A hydraulic analysis is always required to determine the effect of any bridge construction over a stream. However, construction over a stream is considered an obstruction to the flow and therefore may increase the flood water level upstream of the construction.

What is basic rule #2 on what needs a permit in the floodplain?

A permit is required for all development in the SFHA.

What is the substantial improvement formula?

A project is a substantial improvement if: (Cost of improvement project/Market value of the building) is great than or equal to 50 percent

When a community applies to join the NFIP, what must it submit?

A resolution of intent to "maintain in force ... adequate land use and control measures" and to cooperate with FEMA

If a building is proposed to be located in a riverine floodplain with flood velocities of 8-10 per second, what should you ask the builder to provide to assure you that the building won't get washed away during a flood?

A statement from an architect or engineer that the design of the building includes "anchoring adequate to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement" during the base flood. These are hazardous velocities and you should discourage development in these areas.

The SFHA is shown on the FIRM as a Zone that begins with the letter ______ or ______.

A, V

If a project is found underway in the floodplain, what is the first step you should take?

Advise the owner to stop and tell him or her (in writing) that the project is in violation and what should be done to correct it.

What is a CBRS Zone?

An underdeveloped coastal barrier (barrier island, sand spit, or similar land form) that is designated as part of the Coastal Barrier Resources System

When should you make the second inspection for a building to be elevated on a crawlspace or columns?

After the foundation is completed, so you can check if it is high enough before the lowest floor is built.

When is the best time to make the first site inspection?

After the site is staked out and before permanent foundation work has begun

What's a good definition of "flood hazard mitigation?"

All actions that can be taken to reduce property damage and the threat to life and public health from flooding.

What communities' floodplains are shown on a countywide FIRM?

All communities in the county, even those currently not in the NFIP.

If a community has a FIRM that shows floodways and V Zones, which parts of 44 CFR 60.3 must it abide by?

All parts up through 60.3 (e)

What is freeboard?

An additional height requirement above the base flood elevation that provides a margin of safety against extraordinary or unknown risks.

What is the Write Your Own Program?

An arrangement whereby private insurance companies write and service NFIP flood insurance policies under their own name.

Once you advise an owner that a permit may be necessary, do you need to inspect the building or can you save time and just wait for a permit application?

As soon as possible after the notice is delivered, your office should inspect each flooded property to review needed repairs and determine if a permit is needed

A new house is planned to be built in an SFHA marked "Zone AO (depth 3 feet)." How high should the lowest floor be?

At least 3 feet above the highest adjacent grade

Where is the lowest floor measured in a V Zone?

At the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member.

If a residence is elevated above the BFE in an A Zone, where do you measure how high the building is?

At the top of the lowest floor

If a state requirement is more restrictive than the NFIP requirements, which set of rules must a community follow?

The more restrictive state requirement.

BFE

Base Flood Elevation

What 3 things do you need to check for to ensure that a building is floodproofed?

Below the BFE: 1. Wall are watertight (substantially impermeable to the passage of water) 2. Structural components can resist hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy 3. Utilities are protected from flood damage

What publication has the NFIP requirements for communities?

Chapter 44 of the Code of Federal Regulations

Where can you find standards fro tying down manufactured homes?

Check first to see if there are state regulations. If not, see FEMA's Manufactured Home Installation in Flood Hazard Areas, FEMA-85.

If Mr. Jones' project will be substantial improvement, what do you need to check to see if the whole house has to be elevated or just the addition?

Check the extent of work on the common wall and the existing building. If the common wall is demolished as part of the project, the existing building and the addition must be elevated.

What type of work may not need a permit after a flood?

Cleanup and temporary emergency repairs

CBRA

Coastal Barriers Resources Act

What is basic rule #3 as it relates to encroachments in riverine floodplains?

Development must not increase the flood hazard on other properties.

What's the best way to deal with sand dunes in a V Zone development site?

Don't touch them. They provide important flood protection by breaking waves during coastal storms, If they are to be disturbed, the permit application should have an engineer's or geologist's report that their removal will not increase flood damage.

Where do you get a Biennial Report to send in to FEMA?

Don't worry. FEMA sends it to the community every 2 years.

When is the best time to see if a crawlspace has adequate openings?

During the second inspection, before the floor is built. This will allow the builder to install the needed openings with a minimum of disruption to the structure.

Who is responsible for disaster and emergency response activities in your community?

Each community may have a different name for the emergency manager.

What is "Stormwater Management?"

Efforts that reduce the impact of increased runoff that results form new development in the watershed.

Who is responsible for ensuring that the elevation certificate is completed correctly?

The permit official

During the second inspection, you find that the builder wants to build the lowest floor 3 feet below BFE in order to save on construction costs. What repercussions would the owner face if the community issued a certificate of occupancy for the building and did not pursue any enforcement action?

Even though the certificate of occupancy says the owner had a "legal" building, the flood insurance rates would be based on the elevation of the lowest. The annual insurance premiums would be very high. A few years of such premiums would likely be more expensive than the extra cost of meeting the ordinance's elevation requirements.

Who sets the rates and coverage rules for flood insurance policies, FEMA, or private insurance companies?

FEMA

The substantial damage regulations only apply if the building was damaged by a flood. True or false?

False, the damage can be from any cause

True/False Insurance companies set flood insurance rates and coverage rules.

False. Flood insurance rates and coverage rules are set by FEMA's Federal Insurance Administration.

If a flood is bad enough to result in Presidential disaster declaration, why should my city need flood insurance policies on the buildings it owns in floodplain?

Federal disaster assistance for a flooded public building will be reduced by the amount of flood insurance coverage the community should have on that building. It does not matter whether the building is insures; FEMA will still only provide assistance for damage that exceeded the level of insurance.

What does filling in a floodplain do?

Filling reduces the floodplain's ability to store excess water, sending more water downstream, and causing floods to rise to higher levels.

Which type of flooding has accounted for the most flood-related deaths in recent history?

Flash flooding

In a riverine AE Zone with a base flood elevation, what must a developer show in order to demonstrate that he is meeting Basic Rule #3?

He must conduct an encroachment review that demonstrates that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated development: 1. Will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more that 1 foot at any point within the community 2. Is consistent with the technical criteria contained in Chapter 5 (Hydraulic Analyses) of the Flood Insurance Study: Guidelines and Specifications for Study Contractors, FEMA-37, 1995

Flood profiles are used to determine what?

Flood elevations along a river or stream between cross sections

A tornado swept through town and substantially damaged 25 buildings in the floodplain. How can you help property owners comply with floodplain ordinance's substantial damage regulations?

Help the owner obtain financial assistance. Many programs are available after a disaster declaration.

Cross sections are shown on which map?

Floodway Map, New format FIRM

Permit records should be kept systematically. Your system should be keyed so you can retrieve permit files by:

Geographical indicator, such as street address

A flooded property owner has a brother who is a plumbing contractor. His brother's repair estimates show the damage at 48% of the buildings value. You think it should be higher. What can you do to prevent an argument over who's numbers are right?

Get the cost to repair from an objective third party or undebatable source, such as: -A licensed general contractor -A professional construction estimator -Insurance adjustment papers (exclude damage to contents) -Damage assessment field surveys conducted by building inspection, emergency management, or tax assessment agencies after a disaster

What does the permit official do to be sure that a V Zone building will be adequate to resist the wind and water loads?

Have an engineer certify that the design and planned methods of construction are in accordance with accepted standards of practice to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement due to the effects of wind and water loads acting simultaneously on all building components.

What's the best way to make sure the applicant's engineering certifications are sufficient?

Have your communities engineer review them

Mrs. McGillicudy is on a fixed income. Her home was flooded and substantially damaged. Her flood insurance policy will pay for repairs. When told that she will also have to elevate her house, she thinks she should apply for a variance due to the financial hardship. What do you tell her?

Her flood insurance has Increased Cost of Compliance coverage that will help pay for the cost of meeting the ordinance's requirement to elevate. Your office may be able to help her find financial assistance to pay for the rest of the cost, if needed.

______ is the study of a watershed's behavior during and after a storm.

Hydrology

What is the basic rule on improvements and repairs to existing buildings in the floodplains?

If the cost of improvements or the cost to repair the damage exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the building, it must be brought up to current floodplain management standards.

What is the preferred flood protection approach for critical facilities?

Keep them out of the 500-year floodplain. The next best approach is to protect them to the 500-year food level.

What does an elevation reference mark look like on a FIRM?

Locations are identified with a small "x" and the designation "ERM" or "RM" followed by a number

Does a substantial improvement to an existing building have to meet the same requirements as construction of a new building?

Yes

Where would elevation on piles or columns be preferred?

In areas where flooding is likely to have high velocities or waves.

How many communities currently participate in the NFIP?

More than 19,000

Hydrodynamic forces are caused by _____ water and hydrostatic forces are caused by _____ water

Moving, Standing

How could a developer of an 80-acre subdivision reduce the amount of run-off that leaves the property during a storm?

Include stormwater detention or retention basins to hold or delay the run-off from the site

How can section 1316 help a local permit official faced with a subdivider who refuses to build houses in compliance with the floodplain regulations?

It authorizes FEMA to deny flood insurance to ta property declared in violation of the community's ordinance. Among other things, this will prevent the property from receiving any federal grants and loans and may limit mortgage from federally regulated or insured lending institutions.

What is one of the problems with constructing seawalls to protect buildings from flooding or erosion?

It can accelerate erosion on properties at the end of the wall.

How is floodway shown on new format FIRM?

It is a shaded area with diagonal lines.

What's the advantage of requiring dry land access if buildings are protected from flooding?

It protects people by allowing them to evacuate when floodwaters come up and allows emergency service vehicles to protect the properties during a flood.

What is a "meander?"

It's a curve or turn in a river channel.

Mrs. Murphy bought her property for $100,000 last year. Is this a good basis for determining its market value?

It's a start, but the true market value may be different this year, depending on the local housing market. You also need to subtract the value of the land, landscaping, and detached structures that would have been in the purchase price for the property.

The area below a planned elevated house in the V Zone will have a 260 square foot enclosure to house the entry way and storage closets. The builder wants to insulate the area and finish it with wallboard, wallpaper, and carpeting. He says it's OK because the area in less than 300 square feet. What do you tell him?

It's not OK. Any enclosed space below the lowest floor must be built of flood resistant materials and free of obstructions, or constructed with non-supporting breakaway walls, open wood latticework, or insect screen.

How is a floodway shown on the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map?

It's the white area adjacent to and including the channel.

How can your community help its residents get lower flood insurance rates?

Join the Consumer Rating System (CRA)

What can be allowed under the lowest floor of an elevated building?

Only building access, vehicle parking, and storage

Does replacing an old manufactured home with a new one on the same foundation need a permit?

Yes

Most permanent FIS elevation reference marks are referenced to what datum?

National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD)

What does Basic Rule #4 say about new buildings in A Zone?

New, substantially improved or substantially damaged buildings must be protected from damage by the base flood.

Can I get flood insurance coverage for furniture in the basement?

No

Can a new nonresidential building be built at grade, but floodproofed in the V Zone?

No

Can a new nonresidential building be built on fill in the V Zone?

No

Will paving a dirt street in the floodway need an engineer's "no-rise" certification?

No, as long as the grade of the street is no higher than it was before the paving project.

Can a surveyor sign a Floodproofing Certificate?

No, it must be signed by a registered professional engineer.

Can a community grant a variance to allow a project in the floodway that will cause a 1/2 foot increase in flood heights?

No. "Variances shall not be issued to a community within any designated regulatory floodway if any increase in the flood levels during the base flood discharge would result..." (44 CFR 60.6 (a) 1)

Can a new home in the flood fringe be floodproofed?

No. Elevation is the only method allowed from new residential buildings in the SFHA.

Do I need an elevation certificate to purchase a flood insurance policy on a Pre-FIRM building?

No. However, if you have one that shows the building to be at or above the BFE, you can get a Post-FIRM actuarial rate that is lower than the rate for Pre-FIRM buildings.

If you find information that show the ground to be higher than the BFE, can a bank use that data when determining whether a flood insurance policy must be purchased?

No. Insurance agents and lenders must use the current FIRM when setting insurance rates and determining whether flood insurance is required. If a person wants to vary from the currents FIRM to obtain different premium rates or to not have to purchase a flood insurance policy, the FIRM must be officially revised or amended. This can be done through a LOMA.

Can a new building be built in the V Zone elevated on a crawlspace?

No. It can only be elevated on pilings, posts, piers, or columns to avoid obstructions to the wave action.

Before the flood, Mr. Johnson had been cited by the community for a code violation. The paint on his garage had been peeling, which was a violation of the local housing maintenance code. Since the flood left mud up to the high water line, he decided to repaint the whole house. Can he claim exemption of the cost of the painting because it had been cited as a code violation?

No. Only exempt the items specifically required by the citation and what is minimally necessary to comply.

Are plants and animals the only beneficiaries of the "natural and beneficial functions" of flood plains?

No. People benefit from floodplains through the food they provide, the recreational opportunities the afford, and the scientific knowledge gained in studying them. Floodplains also recharge ground water supplies and their filtering actions help improve water quality.

Is erosion only a threat in coastal areas?

No. Riverine erosion can move through stream channels and undercut structures.

Can I request a LOMA to get my property out of a CBRS area?

No. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services can interpret the boundaries and FEMA can correct map errors, but only Congress can change the designation.

Do Q3 Flood Data show base flood elevations if they are available?

No. The are designed primarily to determine if a property is in or out of the SFHA.

A building official finds it easier to read an old flood map prepared on an aerial photograph by the Corps of Engineers. He doesn't want to use the current FIRM because it doesn't show all the buildings and features the photograph does. Can he make permit decisions based on the Corps map instead of the FIRM?

No. The community must use the latest maps and data provided by FEMA. If the other map shows higher BFE and a larger floodplain, the community may adopt it in its ordinance as the regulatory floodplain and exceed the minimum NFIP requirements. The map must be approved by the FEMA Regional Office before this is done.

The state in which Flood County is situated requires a permit from the state Department of Environmental Protection for development on primary sand dunes. A permit applicant wants to build on one near Site F. Department staff informs you that based on the plans they have seen, they will have to deny the state permit. Should the Flood County permit officer issue a floodplain development permit?

No. The local permit should not be issued until staff are certain that the other agencies' requirements are met. If it is just a question of time and a state permit is expected to be issued, a local permit could be issued conditioned on obtaining a state permit. However, if it is clear that the project violates the state regulations, a local permit should not be issued until the matter is settled.

Mrs. Murphy got a permit 2 months ago to remodel her living room and kitchen. Now she wants a permit to remodel 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. Should you check each of these separately to determine if each project is a substantial improvement?

No. They should be counted as one project and their total cost combined.

Can your community waive the requirement for a development permit so people can repair their flooded homes more quickly?

No. You can waive the permit fee, but you must require permits to see if the buildings could be substantially damaged and subject to your floodplain ordinance's requirements.

In how many court cases have the NFIP regulations been overruled as unconstitutional?

None

What's the best way to get a food flood insurance rate for a new building in an unnumbered A Zone?

Obtain or develop a base flood elevation for the site and require the building to be elevated above it.

What should happen to buildings in NFIP communities over time?

Over time, exposure to flood damage should be reduced, as the older pre-FIRM buildings are replaced by post-FIRM buildings. Eventually a community should have only post-FIRM buildings subject to little or no flood damage.

Where does most of the money come from to pay the expenses of the NFIP?

Premium income. The NFIP has been self-supporting since 1986.

What are some of the benefits of preparing a mitigation plan?

Preparing a plan will: 1. Ensure that all possible activities are reviewed and implemented 2. Link floodplain management policies to specific areas 3. Ensure that activities are coordinated 4. Educate residents 5. Build public and political support 6. Fulfill planning requirements for state or federal assistance programs 7. Facilitate implementation of floodplain management activities

Can a new nonresidential building be built on fill in the floodway?

Probably not. It would be hard to show that the fill down not cause an increase in flood heights.

Can I get a good flood insurance rate on a building in an AE Zone that is floodproofed to the base flood elevation?

Probably not. Unless the building is floodproofed to at least 1 foot above the BFE, the rate will be based on the elevation of the lowest floor. If the lowest floor is 2 or more feet below the BFE, it will be a submit for rate.

Why should you keep permit records?

Records do the following: 1. Show what you approved and what you told the developer. 2. For a paper trail needed for administrative or legal proceedings. 3. Give future owners information about the property. 4. Are checked by FEMA or the state to determine if your community is in full compliance with the NFIP.

What is one of the best guides you can give to owners or residents of flooded buildings?

Repairing Your Flooded Home

Mrs. Smith is elevating a house in the AE Zone 8' above grade. How can you make sure that the area below the lowest floor won't be improved, finished, or otherwise turned into living space?

Require that the lower area must be kept open or require the owner to sign a nonconversion agreement (requiring large openings will also help)

Joe Hunter wants to build a small hunting cabin on a lake in an approximate A Zone. It will be the only building within 2 miles. There are no known sources of a base flood elevation. The cabin will cost less than $10,000 and he does not want to pay $2,000 for an engineering study to develop a BFE. What can you do to make sure the property is protected from flooding?

Require that the lowest floor of the cabin be at lease 5 feet above grade.

What are the 3 most common types of flooding?

Riverine, coastal, shallow

What the best way to determine if a building is "historic" and eligible for exemption from the substantial improvement requirement?

See if it's on an approved list of historic structures

Area behind recognized levees are designated as _____ _____.

Shaded Zone X

What is an AH Zone?

Shallow flooding base floodplain with base flood elevation

What differentiates shallow flooding from riverine flooding?

Shallow flooding is distinguishable from riverine or coastal flooding because if occurs in areas where there is no channel or identifiable flow path.

What's the major cause of coastal flooding?

Storm surge

What causes a storm surge?

Storms that bring air pressure changes and strong winds that pile water up against the shore.

What probable effect does increase in urbanization within a community or upstream of it have on the stream discharges within that community?

Stream discharges usually will increase as a consequence to the increase in urbanization within a community or upstream of it.

Prior to the 1960's what was the primary way to reduce flood losses?

Structural flood control projects

What is the basic rule on calculating the cost of the damage?

Substantial damage is determined regardless of the actual cost to the owner. You must figure the true cost of bringing the building back to its pre-damage condition using qualified labor and materials obtained at market prices.

You discover that Mrs. Murphy has ordered five truckloads of fill to raise her backyard int he floodway. She never asked for a permit. What is the recommended first step to dealing with this situation?

Talk to Mrs. Murphy and explain why a permit is needed and why it is important not to fill in the floodway, You should get voluntary compliance.

What NFIP program recognizes local regulatory standards that are more restrictive than the minimum NFIP regulations?

The Community Rating System (CRS)

What map do you use if recently annexed areas do not show up on your community's FIRM?

The FIRM for the county or the community the property used to be in. It is important to note that the community generally must also adapt the map in its ordinance to be legally enforceable.

What are the objectives of the NFIP?

The National Flood Insurance Act created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to: 1. Transfer the costs of private property flood losses from the taxpayers to floodplain property owners through flood insurance premiums 2. Provide floodplain residents and property owners with financial aid after floods, especially smaller floods that do not warrant federal disaster aid 3. Guide development away from flood hazard areas 4. Require that new and substantially improved buildings be constructed in ways that would minimize or prevent damage in a flood

How do I know how much a flood insurance policy will cost for a Post-FIRM building with the lowest floor 4 feet below the BFE?

The insurance agent has to send information on the building in for special individualized rating system known as "submit for rate"

To locate the true elevation at a site, surveyors have established _____ _____ marks also known as _____ marks.

elevation reference, bench

Does your community have formal written permit review procedures to ensure that a development proposal is properly reviewed and inspected?

The answer should be "yes." although there is no NFIP requirement for written procedures. You are responsible for ensuring that your ordinance is legally enforceable and that will require you be able to demonstrate that you have adequate administrative procedures.

What is an AO zone?

The area subject to sheet flow, ponding, or shallow flooding.

A city councilman complains that the NFIP floodway regulations prevent construction of a flood control dam that will protect people from flooding. What can you tell him?

The community can apply for a conditional letter of map revision if it can provide the following: 1. An elevation of alternatives which, if carried out, would not result in an increase in the BFE more than allowed, along with documentation as to why these alternatives are not feasible 2. Documentation of individual legal notice to all affected property owners (anyone affected by the increased flood elevations, within and outside of the community) explaining the impact of the proposed action on their properties 3. Concurrence, in writing, from the chief executive officer of any other communities affected by the proposed actions 4. Certification that no structures are located in areas which would be affected by the increased BFE (unless they have been purchased for relocation or demolition) 5. A request for revision of BFE determinations in accordance with the provisions of 44 CFR 65.6 of the FEMA regulations

How does compensatory storage work?

The developer is required to offset new fill put in the floodplain by excavating an additional floodable area to replace the lost flood storage area.

A restudy was performed on the Josias River. The preliminary study will not be final for another five months. Is shows a new BFE at Site N that is 2 feet higher that the BFE in your current FIS. Which one do you use to determine the flood protection level for a new home at Site N?

The draft revised data should be used unless the community disagrees with the data and intends to appeal it. As noted previously, the community must first legally adopt the preliminary study in their ordinance.

What is needed to support a No-rise certification?

The engineering or no-rise certification must be supported by technical data and signed by a registered professional engineer. The supporting technical data should be based on the standard step-backwater computer model used to develop the 100-year floodway shown on your FIRM or Flood Boundary and Floodway Map and the results tabulated in your Flood Insurance Study.

What does watershed development do to flooding?

The increase in impervious surface results in increased runoff and higher flood levels.

What's more important: a plan document or the planning process?

The process

What are the sanctions if a community is suspended from the NFIP?

The same as for non-participation: 1. Flood insurance will not be available. No resident will be able to purchase a flood insurance policy through the NFIP. 2. If the community withdraws or is suspended, existing flood insurance will not be renewed. 3. No federal grants or loans for development may be made in the identified flood hazard areas under programs administered by federal agencies such as HUD, EPA, and SBA. 4. No federal disaster assistance may be provided to repair insurable buildings located in identified flood hazard areas for damage caused by a flood. 5. No federal mortgage insurance or loan guarantees may be provided in identified flood hazard areas. This includes policies written by FHA, VA, and others. 6. Federally insured or regulated lending institutions, such as banks and credit unions, must notify applicants seeking loans for insurable buildings in flood hazard areas that: a. there is a flood hazard and b. the property is not eligible for federal disaster relief Suspension means the community is no longer a participant in the NFIP.

What documentations will be needed to in order to determine if the project should be built in the flood plain? Reconstruction of a state highway bridge

The state highway department may be exempt from local regulations. However, it is a good idea to talk to the State NFIP Coordinator to ensure that the project meets all state floodplain management requirements.

If a subdivider makes sure that all building sites are above the BFE, does he need to do anything more to meet the NFIP requirements?

The subdivider also needs to make sure that: 1. All public utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems, are located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage 2. Adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards

Based on the tax assessor's records, the market value of 123 Main Street is $75,000. The owner wants to replace the HVAC and plumbing, remodel the kitchen and both bathrooms and convert his basement to a finished family room. His total cost is $20,000 for supplies. If a contractor were to do the job, the total cost would be $45,000. However, since he is a handyman and will do all the work himself, the total cost of his project is $20,000. What is your response?

The total cost of the project must be the true cost, including the cost of labor and donated materials. This project will be a substantial improvement.

What was the problem with the way the floodway was shown on the old format Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps?

The white area looked like it was a C Zone outside the floodplain. Also, people who had only a FIRM did not know of the floodway hazard.

How is a manufactured home outside of a manufactured home park treated differently from a conventional "stick built" home?

They are both treated the same. They must meet the same construction and elevation requirements.

Why are pilings and posts preferred in V Zones?

They can better withstand the wind and water loads.

If you use a level to verify the elevation of a building during the second inspection, will the builder still need to provide an as-built elevation certificate?

Yes

A builder wants to build a "bi-level" house where the lowest flood is 3 feet below grade. The lowest floor has large windows and includes 3 bedrooms and a bathroom. Because it is habitable space, the owner does not want to consider this a "basement." Does the NFIP consider this a "Basement?"

Yes and the lowest floor (i.e., the basement) must be above the BFE.

A hydraulic study uses the hydrology, cross-section information, and stream characteristics to determine the flood _____.

elevations (also velocities and floodplain widths)

What are the NFIP procedures for submitting an appeal to your Board of Appeals?

There are none, or, more correctly, they are whatever your ordinance specifies.

What does Basic rule #5 say about new buildings in V Zones?

There are special building requirements in addition to the building protection requirements for buildings in A Zones.

What types of government bodies are considered to be "communities" by the NFIP?

These governmental bodies vary from state to state, but can include cities, towns, villages, townships, counties, parishes, special districts, states, and Indian nations with the statutory authority to enact and enforce regulations.

How many digits are there in the NFIP community identification number?

They always have 6 digits. This is important to avoid confusion with the five-digit countywide FIRM number. The community identification number does not include the panel number and other numbers that appear near it on the FIRM title block.

How is a 600 square foot motor home that is permanently attached to a reinforced block wall foundation treated differently from a manufactured home?

They are both treated the same. They must meet the same construction and elevation requirements.

How can you protect a sewer system from flooding?

Through careful system design. Manholes should be raised above the 100-year flood level or equipment with seals to prevent leakage. Pumping stations should have electrical panels elevated above the BFE.

Where does a property owner go to buy a flood insurance policy?

To any licensed casualty insurance agent.

A home was built to post-FIRM standards in 1990. The lowest floor was elevated 4 feet above grade, to the BFE in effect at that time. In 1995, a new FIRM went into effect. The new BFE is now 6 feet above grade at that site. How high would a small (less than substantial) addition have to be elevated?

To at least 4 feet above grade

A home was built to post-FIRM standards in 1990. The lowest floor was elevated 4 feet above grade, to the BFE in effect at that time. In 1995, a new FIRM went into effect. The new BFE is now 6 feet above grade at that site. How high would a large (substantial) addition have to be elevated?

To at least 6 feet above grade

What causes a tsumani?

Underwater earthquake or volcanoes

Can a basement be considered the "lowest floor?"

Yes

Can a community get CRS credit for activities implemented by a state agency on behalf of the community?

Yes

Can a new nonresidential building be built at grade, but floodproofed in the flood fringe?

Yes

Can a new nonresidential building be built on fill in the flood fringe?

Yes

Can constructing a levee and maintaining sand dunes be considered flood hazard mitigation measures?

Yes

Can non-CRS communities obtain and benefit from CRS publications?

Yes

A restudy was performed on Rocky River. The preliminary study will not be final for another five months. It show a new BFE at site B that is 2 feet lower that the BFE in your current FIS. Which one do you use to determine the flood protection level for a new home at Site B?

When the BFE in the new study is lower than the BFE, in the existing study, the existing FIS data should be used until the new study is final.

When should you make a second inspection of a building on a slab foundation?

When the forma are in place, but before the concrete is poured.

What is wave runup?

When waves hit the shore, water moves with such force that it keeps traveling inland higher than the stillwater flood level.

What is "ponding?"

Where storm water runoff collects in depressions and cannot drain out

A development plan proposes to fill and re-grade an area of the fringe to give most of the lots building sites that are above the BFE. The developer says "then we won't have the banks telling people my subdivision is in the floodplain." What do you tell the developer?

While the permit office can use better ground elevation data to determine that a building location is above the BFE (and therefore outside the SFHA), the property will remain in the SFHA on the FIRM. That means that it is still subject to the flood insurance purchase requirement and the rates will be set at SFHA rates. It is the owner's responsibility to submit a request for a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) in order to have the FIRM reflect the better data.

If the third inspection reveals that the builder of an apartment house has made a change to the structure that results in a major violation of your floodplain regulations, what can you do?

Withhold the certificate of occupancy. (this assumes that you have an ordinance that states that utilities cannot be turned on and/or apartments cannot be rented until the certificate is issued

A Zone C on an old format FIRM is shown as a Zone _____ on the newer format FIRM.

X

A builder wants to build an apartment building on stem walls parallel to the flow of water with the lowest floor 8' above grade. Can the lower are be used as a parking lot?

Yes

A farmer wants to build a dairy barn in the floodway. Will he need to provide you with a "no-rise" certification before you can issue the permit?

Yes

A developer wants to build in an area mapped approximate Zone A on Ireland Creek. He conducts a detailed flood study which is approved by the Town Engineer. It shows that several lots in the A Zone are actually higher than the BFE calculated in the study. Can you issue permits for building on those sites and treat them as C Zone sites?

Yes, as long as the Town Engineer assures you that the developer's study: 1. Reasonably reflects flooding conditions expected during the base flood 2. Is technically correct 3. Represents the best data available

A business on the Mississippi River wants to build a floodproofed warehouse on the flood fringe. The plans are to have the walls built of reinforced concrete up to the BFE. Several garage doors will be open at grade to allow trucks in and out, but the design includes movable shields that can be put in place before floodwaters arrive. There would be no other openings below the BFE. The warehouse will have a 24-hour security force that will be trained on how to install the shields. The design engineer will certify that the building will be floodproofed (with human intervention) up to the base flood elevation. Can you approve these plans?

Yes, assuming there is adequate warning time to install the shields, which there probably is on the Mississippi River.

Can I wait and buy a flood insurance policy after I hear the National Weather Service issue a flood warning?

Yes, but no claim can be paid. There is a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect.

Can a floodplain regulation ever prohibit new buildings from a portion of the floodplain?

Yes, if the area is sufficiently dangerous and/or there is a clear relationship between the prohibition and protecting the public from the hazard created by the development

Can the owner store garden tools in a floodable crawlspace?

Yes, if there is enough warning time to move it.

Does moving sand and sand dunes affect flooding?

Yes, it may remove a natural barrier that protects inland properties.

The builder of a house to be elevated on concrete columns wants to uses wood for the stairway. He is concerned that wood will swell and warp if it gets wet during the flood. Can a portion of the of the house below the BFE be built of wood?

Yes, provided it is pressure treated (.40 CCA minimum), naturally decay resistant lumber or marine grade plywood.

Could my community be eligible for a Section 404 Hazard Mitigation Grant even if it did not receive a disaster declaration?

Yes, under a 1997 FEMA ruling, all communities in the state that are eligible after the disaster declaration.

A developer wants to build in an area mapped approximate Zone A on Ireland Creek. He conducts a detailed flood study which is approved by the Town Engineer. It shows that several lots in the A Zone are actually higher than the BFE calculated in the study. Will the buyers of the properties have to buy flood insurance policies?

Yes, unless a map amendment or Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) is issued by FEMA

If an old manufactured home is replaced with a new one on the same foundation, will the new one have to be elevated above the BFE?

Yes, unless it is an existing manufactured home park. Then the owner has the option of elevating either above the BFE or 36" above grade on reinforced piers.

Does NFIP allow communities to enact more restrictive regulatory standards?

Yes. "... any flood plain management regulations adopted by a state or a community which are more restrictive that the criteria set forth in this part are encouraged and shall take precedence." (44CFR 60.1 (d))

Mr. Jones proposes a $50,000 addition to his $80,000 home in the floodplain. Is this substantial improvement?

Yes. 50,000 divided by 80,000 = 0.625, more than 50%

Can a bank require flood insurance for a property outside the SFHA shown on the latest FIRM?

Yes. Any lender can require flood insurance where it wants (Federal law doesn't give lenders a choice for properties in the SFHA)

Is there any relation between how a community regulates new construction an flood insurance rates?

Yes. Buildings built in accordance with the community's regulations have a lower risk of flooding and can be insured at lower rates.

Is there much of a cost savings on flood insurance if the lowest floor of a Post-FIRM building is 1 foot above the BFE instead of at the BFE?

Yes. For example, the rate for the first layer of building coverage for a single family building located in an AE Zone goes from $0.89/$100 coverage to $0.55, a savings of nearly 40%

A farmer wants to build a small addition onto his farmhouse (in the floodway). Can this be designed so he won't have to pay for an engineer's encroachment review?

Yes. If it is located in the conveyance shadow of the farmhouse.

Does dredging a creek to make it deeper to reduce flood levels need a foodplain permit?

Yes. It is considered development and all development needs a permit.

Is a V Zone Certification needed for a residential building?

Yes. It is needed for all buildings and substantial improvements in the V Zone.

Do federal agencies have to meet any floodplain development rules similar to the NFIP requirements?

Yes. The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and Executive Order 11988 require Federal agencies to meet the same or more restrictive development standards.

If a project will involve filling a wetland, is it likely that a federal or state permit will be needed?

Yes. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers requires a Section 404 permit for most wetland filling activities. A local permit should not be issued until it is clear that the project does not violate Section 404 rules.

Mrs. Smith wants a new second story that will double the size and value of her house. The floor of the new story will be above the BFE. Will the old first floor have to be elevated?

Yes. The project should be a substantial improvement and the entire building will need to be elevated in this situation.

If your community follows the requirements of 44 CFR 60.3 (d), does it have to worry about what's in 44 CFR 60.3 (b)?

Yes. The requirements are cumulative in Section 60.3

The rate at which runoff flows downstream is called the flood _____.

discharge

During your permit review, you find that the applicant's site plan shows that the ground is currently higher than the BFE. Should you continue to treat this as a floodplain development permit?

You do not have to. It's still a good idea to encourage the applicant to incorporate flood protection measures in case a future flood is higher than the predicted BFE (e.g. don't build any home with basements)

What is "Basic Rule #1" for using maps and data?

You must use the latest maps and flood data published by FEMA.

A property has been annexed from the county into your city, but the FIRM has not been revised to reflect the annexation. What is the NFIP community number that is recorded in Item 1, Section B of the FEMA Elevation Certificate?

Your city's NFIP number. The county NFIP number is entered in Item of Section B.

If a FEMA staff person finds a project in violation of the FEMA NFIP requirements in your community, who is responsible for correcting the violation?

Your local permit official

A builder wants to put a house in the floodway. How much can his project increase the base flood elevation (in feet)?

Zero. A project in a floodway is not allowed to cause any increase in floodwaters.

Flood studies that do not identify BFEs are call _____ _____.

approximate studies

The Special Flood Hazard Area or SFHA is how the ______ ______ floodplain is shown on FEMA maps.

base flood

The most hazardous part of the coastal floodplain is the _____ ______ ______ area, which is shown on the map as a _____ Zone.

coastal high hazard, V

Flood profiles are developed by plotting the flood elevations at the _____ _____and connecting the plotted points.

cross sections

Surveyors reference elevation to a common _____.

datum

Instead of using a base flood elevation, some shallow flooding areas are defined using a base flood _____.

depth