HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance No. O13-02 ORDINANCE NO. 013-02
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 15.70 OF THE LAUREL MUNICIPAL
CODE ENTITLED "FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS" TO COMPLY WITH THE
REVISED REGULATIONS ISSUED BY MONTANA'S DEPARTMENT OF
NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION.
WHEREAS, Montana's Department Of Natural Resources And Conservation, Water
Resources Division, hereinafter "DNRC" promulgated and issued Flood Plain Hazard
Management Regulations dated July 30, 2013; and
WHEREAS, the issuance of new regulations renders the previous regulations adopted
and utilized by the City obsolete requiring a modification of City Ordinance; and
WHEREAS, in order to remain current with state and federal flood plain management,
the City Council must amend Chapter 15.70 as provided herein.
IT IS HEREBY ORDAINED by the City Council for the City of Laurel, Montana, that
Chapter 15.70 is amended as follows:
FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS
15.70.010 Floodplain regulations— Purpose.
A. The ordinance codified in this chapter is passed in order to comply with the
Montana Floodplain and Floodway Management Act (Montana Code Annotated, Title 76,
Chapter 5) and Montana Administrative Rule (ARM) 36, Chapter 15 and to insure compliance
with the requirements for the continued participation by the city in the National Flood Insurance
Program. Land use regulations, which are hereby adopted, are to be applied to all identified one
hundred year floodplains within the city's jurisdiction and are attached as Exhibit A and fully
incorporated as part of this chapter by this reference.
B. This chapter and Exhibit A, Floodplain Hal rd Management Regulations dated
July 30, 2013 are adopted under the authority of Montana Code Annotated, Title 76, Chapter 5,
Part 3.
C. This chapter adopts the set of comprehensive land use regulations attached to the
ordinance codified in this section as Exhibit A for identified one hundred year floodplains within
the city. Identification of one hundred year floodplains is based on the Federal Emergency
Management Agencies Flood Insurance Study for the city dated July 26, 1982 November 6.,
2013, the flood insurance rate map, and the flood boundary and floodway map. (Ord. 05 15
EPallt-V
013 -02 Floodplain Regulations
This Ordinance shall become effective thirty (30) days after final passage by the City Council
and approved by the Mayor.
Introduced and passed on first reading at a regular meeting of the City Council on
September 17, 2013, by Council Member McGee
PASSED and ADOPTED by the Laurel City Council on second reading this 1 day of
October, 2013, upon motion of Council Member Stokes
APPROVED BY THE MAYOR this 1 day of October, 2013.
CITY 0 LAUREL
nneth E. Olson, Jr. M. r
ATTEST: / C�
Shirley Ewan, Clerk - Treasurer
Ap o s ved .
Aligie41r 1 A A .4114
Sam '' amter, ivil City Atto P ey
013 -02 Floodplain Regulations
City of Laurel Draft
DRAFT
2013 MODEL
ORDINANCE/REGULATIONS
July 30, 2013
FLOOD PLAIN HAZARD
MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS
MONTANA DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND CONSERVATION
WATER RESOURCES DIVISION
1424 9 Avenue
P.O. Box 201601
Helena, Montana 59620 -1601
http://www.mtfloodplain.mt.gov
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DRAFT
2013 Model Ordinance
Purpose and Considerations
PURPOSE:
• Provide communities a current (2013) Model Ordinance; the 1989, 1990,
1992 and 2006 versions are obsolete. Draft versions of the 2013 Model
Ordinance were utilized in 2012 by several communities and should be
updated.
• Provides a model and template for local floodplain management
ordinances.
• Communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program are
required to have up to date floodplain management ordinances.
• Includes State and FEMA minimum procedural and development standards.
CONSIDERATIONS:
• Substantial adherence to the model ordinance will facilitate reviews by
DNRC and FEMA.
• Legal cites to supporting federal and state statutes and regulations are
noted in the Model Ordinance and are for reference during drafting and
should be removed before final adoption. The information within the
boxes is informational and should be removed as well.
• Communities may adopt higher standards. Higher standards as well as
those suggested in the Model may have health and safety as well as
economic and ecological benefits to the community.
• The Regulated Flood Hazard Area is required to be specifically described
and updated if necessary.
• Local ordinances require local notice and adoption.
• The special review panel needs to be specified in the Variance and
Administrative Appeals Sections.
• DNRC must find the local Flood Plain Hazard Mitigation Regulations are
adequate before local adoption, allow 30 days for review.
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• FEMA Region VIII must find the regulations adequate and acceptable before
community adoption as well, allow 30 days for review.
• Local ordinances are required to be updated within 6 months of a State or
FEMA revision or update to the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 Flood Plain Hazard Management Regulations
1.2 Statutory Authority
1.3 Findings of Fact
1.4 Purpose
1.5 Methods to Reduce Losses
1.6 Regulated Area
1.7 Flood Plain Administrator
1.8 Compliance
1.9 Abrogation and Greater Responsibility
1.10 Regulation Interpretation
1.11 Warning and Disclaimer of Liability
1.12 Severability
1.13 Disclosure Provision
1.14 Amendment of Regulations
1.15 Public Records
1.16 Subdivision Review
1.17 Disaster Recovery
SECTION 2. DEFINITIONS
SECTION 3. FORMS AND FEES
3.1 Forms
3.2 Fees
SECTION 4. REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
4.1 Regulated Flood Hazard Areas
4.2 Interpretation of Regulated Flood Hazard Area Boundaries
4.3 Alteration of Regulated Flood Hazard Area
SECTION 5. USES ALLOWED WITHOUT A PERMIT WITHIN THE REGULATED
FLOOD HAZARD AREA
5.1 General
SECTION 6. PROHIBITED USES, ACTIVITIES AND STRUCTURES WITHIN THE
REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA
6.1 Floodway
6.2 Flood Fringe or Regulated Flood Hazard Area Without a Floodway
SECTION 7. FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
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7.1 General
7.2 Required Flood Plain Permit Application Information
SECTION 8. APPLICATION EVALUATION
8.1 Flood Plain Permit Application Review
8.2 Notice Requirements for Flood Plain Permit Applications
8.3 Flood Plain Permit Criteria
8.4 Decision
8.5 Flood Plain Permit Conditions and Requirements
SECTION 9. DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS IN THE FLOODWAY
9.1 Uses Requiring Permits
9.2 General Requirements
9.3 Mining Of Material Requiring Excavation From Pits Or Pools
9.4 Railroad, Highway And Street Stream Crossings
9.5 Limited Filling For Road, And Railroad Embankments
9.6 Buried Or Suspended Utility Transmission Lines
9.7 Storage Of Materials And Equipment
9.8 Domestic Water Supply Wells
9.9 Buried And Sealed Vaults For Sewage Disposal in Campgrounds
and Recreational Areas
9.10 Public and Private Campgrounds
9.11 Structures Accessory Or Appurtenant
9.12 Construction Of Or Modifications To Surface Water Diversions
9.13 Flood Control And Bank Protection Measures
9.14 Stream and Bank Restoration
9.15 Alterations to Existing Residential and Nonresidential Buildings
SECTION 10. DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS IN THE FLOOD FRINGE OR
REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA WITH NO FLOODWAY
10.1. Uses Requiring Permits
10.2. General Requirements
10.3. Residential Building, Exceptions and Additional Requirements
10.4. Non - Residential Building, Exceptions and Additional Requirements
SECTION 11. EMERGENCIES
11.1 General
11.2 Emergency Notification and Application Requirements
SECTION 12. VARIANCES
12.1 General
12.2 Variance Application Requirements
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12.3 Notice Requirements for Flood Plain Variance Application
12.4 Evaluation of Variance Application
12.5 Decision
12.6 Judicial Review
SECTION 13. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS
13.1 General
13.2 Appeals Requirements
13.3 Notice and Hearing
13.4 Decision
13.5 Judicial Review
SECTION 14. ENFORCEMENT
14.1. Investigation Request
14.2. Notices To Enter And Investigate Lands Or Waters
14.3. Notice To Respond And Order To Take Corrective Action
14.4. Administrative Review
14.5. Appeal of Administrative Decision
14.6. Failure to Comply With Order to Take Corrective Action
14.7. Judicial Review
14.8. Other Remedies
SECTION 15. PENALTIES
15.1 Misdemeanor
15.2 Declaration to the Federal Flood Insurance Administrator
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SECTION 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 FLOOD PLAIN HAZARD MANAGEMENT REGULATIONS
These regulations are known and may be cited as the "Flood Plain Hazard
Management Regulations ;" hereinafter referred to as "these regulations."
1.2 STATUTORY AUTHORITY
1. Flood Plain and Floodway Management is incorporated in Montana Code
Annotated (MCA) Title 76, Chapter 5 and describes the authority, procedures
and minimum standards for local regulations and is further described in Montana
Administrative Rule (ARM) 36, Chapter 15.
2. The authority to regulate development in specifically identified flood hazard areas
has been accepted pursuant to 76 -5 -301, MCA.
1.3 FINDINGS OF FACT
1. Flood hazard areas specifically adopted herein as Regulated Flood Hazard
Areas have been delineated and designated by order or determination of the
Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) pursuant to
MCA 76 -5 -201 et.seq.
2. These regulations have been reviewed by Montana Department of Natural
Resources and Conservation and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation has found the
regulations acceptable in meeting the Department minimum standards. The
Federal Emergency Management Agency finds that these regulations are
adequate and consistent with the comprehensive criteria for land management
and use pursuant to the standards established in 44 CFR 60.3. (76 -5 -302, MCA,
ARM 36.15.202, 44 CFR60.1(b), 42USC 4022)
1.4 PURPOSE
The purpose of these regulations is to promote public health, safety and general
welfare of the residents and minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions
in Regulated Flood Hazard Areas. These Regulations are intended to:
1. Protect human life and health;
2. Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
3. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and
generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;
4. Minimize prolonged business and public service interruptions;
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5. Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains,
electric, telephone and sewer lines, streets and bridges;
6. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development
of flood -prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood disruptions;
and to
7. Ensure compliance with the minimum standards for the continued participation in
the National Flood Insurance Program for the benefit of the residents.
1.5 METHODS TO REDUCE LOSSES
In accordance with 76 -5 -102, MCA, these regulations are intended to reduce flood
losses through the following methods:
1. Restrict or prohibit uses that are dangerous to health, safety or property in times
of flooding or that may cause excessive increases in flood heights or velocities;
2. Require that uses of land vulnerable to floods, including public facilities, be
developed or constructed to at least minimum standards or to otherwise minimize
flood damage;
3. Regulate the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural
protective barriers which are needed to accommodate floodwaters;
4. Regulate filling, grading, dredging and other development which may increase
flood damage;
5. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will impact other land,
flood water depth or velocity of floodwaters;
6. Distinguish between the land use regulations applied to the floodway within the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area and those applied to that portion of the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area not contained in the floodway;
7. Apply more restrictive land use regulations within the floodway of the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area; and
8. Ensure that regulations and minimum standards balance the greatest public good
with the least private injury.
1.6 REGULATED AREA
These regulations apply only to the flood hazard areas specifically adopted herein as
Regulated Flood Hazard Areas which are more fully and specifically described in
Section 4. Requirements and approvals for alterations to the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area are specified in Section 4. The Regulated Flood Hazard Area includes areas
specifically identified, labeled and illustrated on maps such as Flood Plain, Floodway, or
Flood Fringe that have differing uses allowed and minimum building standards that
apply. The Regulated Flood Hazard Area is the geographic area inundated by the
Flood of 100 -year Frequency illustrated and depicted in the referenced studies and
maps.
The Regulated Flood Hazard Area supporting study and maps illustrating the regulatory
area are based on studies and maps completed for the DNRC and may include Special
Flood Hazard Areas and Flood Insurance Studies by FEMA or studies by others
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including Natural Resources and Conservation Service (NRCS) that have been
specifically adopted by DNRC pursuant to 76- 5- 201et.seq., MCA. The maps and
accompanying study become the Regulated Flood Hazard Area only when formally
adopted by DNRC and subsequently by the political subdivision within an ordinance or
regulation.
1.7 FLOOD PLAIN ADMINISTRATOR
A Flood Plain Administrator is hereby officially appointed and is the responsibility of the
office of planning. . The Flood Plain Administrator's duty is to administer
and implement the provisions of these regulations. The Flood Plain Administrator
must serve to meet and maintain the commitments pursuant to 44 CFR 59.22(a) to
FEMA to remain eligible for FEMA Flood Insurance for individuals and business within
the political subdivision. ((44 CFR 59.22(b)(1)) (ARM 36.15.204(2)(h))
1.8 COMPLIANCE Development, New Construction, Alteration or Substantial
Improvement may not commence without full compliance with the provisions of these
regulations.
1.9 ABROGATION AND GREATER RESPONSIBILITY
It is not intended by these regulations to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing
easements, covenants, deed restrictions, zoning or other regulations in effect.
However, where these regulations impose greater restrictions, the provision of these
regulations must prevail. (44 CFR 60.1(d))
1.10 REGULATION INTERPRETATION
In the interpretation and application of these regulations, all provisions must be: (1)
considered as minimum requirements; (2) liberally construed in favor of the governing
body; and (3) deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under state
statutes. (44 CFR 60.1)
1.11 WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
These regulations do not imply that land outside the Regulated Flood Hazard Areas or
uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. These
regulations shall not create liability on the part of the community or any official or
employee thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on these regulations
or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.
1.12 SEVERABILITY
If any section, clause, sentence, or phrase of these regulations is held to be invalid or
unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding will in no way
affect the validity of the remaining portions of these regulations.
1.13 DISCLOSURE PROVISION
All property owners or their agents in the Regulated Flood Hazard Areas shall notify
potential buyers or their agents that such property is located within the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area and is subject to regulation and any permitted uses that are
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transferred. Information regarding Regulated Flood Hazard Area and the repository for
Flood Plain maps is available in the Flood Plain Administrator's office.
(ARM 36.15.204(2)(g))
1.14 AMENDMENT OF REGULATIONS
These regulations may be amended after notice and public hearing in regard to the
amendments to these regulations. The amendments must be found adequate and
acceptable by DNRC and FEMA to be effective and must be submitted for review at
least 30 days prior to official adoption.
1.15 PUBLIC RECORDS
Records, including permits and applications, elevation and flood proofing certificates,
certificates of compliance, fee receipts, and other matters relating to these regulations
must be maintained by the Flood Plain Administrator and are public records and must
be made available for inspection and for copies upon reasonable request. A reasonable
copying cost for copying documents for members of the public may be charged and
may require payments of the costs before providing the copies. (44 CFR 60.3(b)(5)(iii) &
44 CFR 59.22 (a)(9)(iii))
1.16 SUBDIVISION REVIEW
Within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, subdivisions including new or expansion of
existing manufactured home parks, must be designed to meet the following criteria:
1. The Base Flood Elevations and boundary of the Regulated Flood Hazard area
must be determined and considered during lot layout and building location
design;
2. Locations for future structures and development must be reasonably safe from
flooding; (44CFR 60.3(a)(4))
3. Adequate surface water drainage must be provided to reduce exposure to flood
hazards; (44 CFR 60.3 (a)(4)(iii))
4. Public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems
must be located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and (44
CFR 60.3(a)(4)(ii))
5. Flood Plain permits must be obtained according to these regulations before
development occurs that is within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area. (44 CFR
60.3(b))
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FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) program standard for community Flood Plain
management ordinances specifies that the local govemment is to consider flood hazards when
reviewing and approving subdivisions within the Special Flood Hazard Area. Flood Plain
Administrators should check their subdivision ordinances to ensure flood hazards outside of
Regulated Flood Hazard Areas are addressed in development proposals. For example, the
Montana Model Subdivision Regulations suggests that for any portion of a proposed subdivision
that is within 2,000 horizontal feet and 20 vertical feet of a stream draining an area of 25 square
miles or more, where no official floodplain studies of the stream have been made, the subdivider
may be required to conduct a flood hazard evaluation study. The Montana Department of
Natural Resources and Conservation may, if requested, review the flood hazard analysis on the
merit of its technical adequacy and make a recommendation back to the Flood Plain
Administrator. A technical review by DNRC is not intended to be a formal designation of a flood
plain or floodway pursuant to MCA 76 -5 -201 et.seq. for flood plain management regulatory
purposes unless specifically requested and subsequently adopted by DNRC.
1.17 DISASTER RECOVERY
In the event of a natural or man -made disaster, the Flood Plain Administrator should
participate in the coordination of assistance and provide information to structure owners
concerning Hazard Mitigation and Recovery measures with the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, Montana Disaster Services, Montana Department of Natural
Resources and Conservation, and other state, local and private emergency service
organizations.
Upon completion of cursory street view structure condition survey within the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area, the Flood Plain Administrator shall notify owners that a permit may
be necessary before repair or reconstruction commences on damaged structures that
have sustained an estimated 50% or more in damages caused by natural or man -made
disasters such as floods, fires or winds.
Owners should be advised that structures that have suffered substantial damage and
will undergo substantial improvements require a flood plain application and permit and
must be upgraded to meet the minimum building standards herein during repair or
reconstruction.((MCA 76- 5- 404(3)(b) (ARM 36.15.702) (44 CFR 60.3(c)(2 and 3))
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SECTION 2. DEFINITIONS
FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
There is a large list of definitions of terms and nomenclature normally used in
floodplain hazard management guidelines and explanations. Be aware the
same word may mean something different when applied to flood insurance,
minimum standards, or a regulatory requirement.
The definitions in 76 -5 -103, MCA and ARM 36.15.101 where applicable may be
considered however several of those definitions are specifically for describing
the role and responsibility of the DNRC in regard to development and adoption
of flood hazard studies and map and other responsibilities.
FEMA definitions 44 CFR 59.1 may be considered. Definitions are used to
describe the FEMA minimum standards for floodplain management if
communities want to join the National Flood Insurance Program so individuals
and businesses are eligible for flood insurance in that community. However,
some definitions are specifically for insurance purposes under the National
Flood Insurance Program.
Another source of information including definitions is the FEMA National Flood
Insurance Manual.
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in these regulations shall be
interpreted as to give them the meaning they have in common usage and the most
reasonable application. For the purpose of these regulations, the following definitions
are adopted:
100 -year Flood — One percent (1%) annual chance flood. See Base Flood
Alteration — Any change or addition to an artificial obstruction that either increases its
external dimensions or increases its potential flood hazard. See also Substantial
Improvement. (ARM 36.15.101(2))
Appurtenant Structure — A structure in which the use is incidental or accessory to the
use of a principal structure.(44 CFR 59.1)
Artificial Obstruction — Any obstruction which is not natural and includes any
development, dam, diversion, wall, riprap, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment,
projection, revetment, excavation, channel rectification, road, bridge, conduit, culvert,
building, refuse, automobile body, fill or other analogous structure or matter in, along,
across, or projecting into any Regulated Flood Hazard Area that may impede, retard, or
change the direction of the flow of water, either in itself or by catching or collecting
debris carried by the water, or that is placed where the natural flow of the water would
carry the same downstream to the damage or detriment of either life or property. See
also Development. (ARM 36.15.101(3) & MCA 76 -5- 103(1))
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Base Flood (Flood of 100 Year Frequency) - A flood having a one percent (1%)
chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (ARM 36.15.101(4) & (44 CFR
59.1)
Base Flood Elevation (BFE) — The elevation above sea level of the Base Flood in
relation to the National Geodic Vertical Datum of 1929 or the North American Vertical
Datum of 1988 or unless otherwise specified. (ARM 36.15.101(5))
Basement — Any area of a building, except a crawl space, as having its Lowest floor
below ground level on all sides. (44 CFR 59.1) (NFIP Insurance Manual, Rev. May
2013)
Building — A walled and roofed structure, including a gas or liquid storage tank that is
principally above ground, as well as a manufactured home. (44 CFR 59.1)
Channel — The geographical area within either the natural or artificial banks of a
watercourse or drain way. (MCA 76 -5- 103(2))
Crawl Space — An enclosure that has its interior floor area no more than 5 feet below
the top of the next highest floor. See Enclosure and Sub grade Crawlspace. (NFIP
Insurance Manual, Rev. May 2013)
DNRC — Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Development —Any man -made change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling,
grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.
See also Artificial Obstruction. (44 CFR59.1)
Elevated Building — A building that has no Basement and that has it lowest elevated
floor raised above ground level by foundation walls, shear walls, posts, piers, pilings or
columns. A building on a crawlspace is considered an elevated building. (NFIP
Insurance Manual, Rev. May 2013)
Enclosure — That portion below the lowest elevated floor of an elevated building that is
either partially or fully shut in by rigid walls including a crawlspace, sub grade
crawlspace, stairwell, or elevator below the Lowest Floor of an elevated building. A
garage below or attached to an elevated building is considered an endosure.
Encroachment — Activities or construction within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area
including fill, new construction, substantial improvements, and other development.
Encroachment Analysis — A hydrologic and hydraulic analysis performed by an
engineer to assess the effects of the proposed artificial obstruction or nonconforming
use on Base Flood Elevation and flood velocities.
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Establish — To construct, place, insert, or excavate. (MCA 76 -5- 103(7) (ARM
36.15.101(9))
FEMA — Federal Emergency Management Agency
Flood Fringe — The identified portion of the Flood Plain of the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area outside the limits of the Floodway. (ARM 36.15.101(10))
Flood of 100 Year Frequency (Base Flood) — A flood magnitude expected to recur on
the average of once every 100 -years or a flood magnitude that has a 1°A) chance of
occurring in any given year. (MCA 76 -5- 103(9)) (44 CFR 59.1)
Flood Plain — The area of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area including and adjoining the
watercourse or drainway that would be covered by the floodwater of a Base Flood. The
area is partitioned into a Flood Fringe and Floodway where specifically designated. See
Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
Floodway — The identified portion of the Flood Plain of the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area that is the channel and the area adjoining the channel that is reasonably required
to carry the discharge of the Base Flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface by more than one half foot. (MCA 76 -5- 103(11)) (MCA 76 -5- 103(5))
Flood Plain Administrator — Community official or representative appointed to
administer and implement the provisions of this ordinance.
Flood Proofing — Any combination of structural and non - structural additions, changes,
or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or
improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, electrical, plumbing, HVAC
systems, structures and their contents. The term includes wet flood proofing, dry flood
proofing and elevation of structures. ((44 CFR 59.1)
Letter of Map Change (LOMC) — An official response from FEMA that amends or
revises the FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area and FEMA Flood Insurance Study for
flood insurance purposes and /or flood risk hazard. FEMA Letters of Map Change
specific to an amendment or revision include:
Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) — A letter of determination from FEMA
issued in response to a request that a property or structure is not subject to the
mandatory flood insurance requirement because it was inadvertently located in
the effective FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area. The material submitted and
response from FEMA may be considered by the Flood Plain Administrator for
determining if a property or structure is within the Regulated Flood Hazard area
and subject to these regulations.
Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR -F) — A letter of approval from
FEMA removing the mandatory requirement for flood insurance on property
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based on placement of fill or an addition. Placement of fill or an addition must be
preceded by a permit pursuant to these regulations. Placement of fill does not
remove the development from the Regulated Flood Hazard Area or these
regulations.
Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) — An official FEMA amendment to the currently
effective FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map or FEMA Flood Boundary Map based
on a physical change to the floodplain of the Special Flood Hazard Area. It is
issued by FEMA and changes flood zones, delineations, and elevations on the
FEMA Flood Insurance Rate Map or FEMA Flood Boundary Map and may
amend the FEMA Flood Insurance Study. It must be preceded by an approved
alteration of the designated floodplain from DNRC and subsequently an
amendment to the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) — A letter of approval for a
proposed physical change that when completed would change by a subsequent
LOMR the flood zones, delineation or elevations on the FEMA Flood Insurance
Rate Map or FEMA Flood Boundary Map and may amend the FEMA Flood
Insurance Study. The CLOMR may be considered in an evaluation by DNRC
and the Flood Plain Administrator during consideration of a proposed
amendment to the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
Lowest Floor — Any floor of a building including a basement used for living purposes,
storage, or recreation. This includes any floor that could be converted to such a use.
((ARM 36.15.101(14)) (44 CFR 59.1))
Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision — Includes the construction of facilities for
servicing the manufactured home lots and at a minimum includes the installation of
utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of
concrete pads. (44 CFR 59.1)
Manufactured or Mobile Home — A building that is transportable in one or more
sections, built on a permanent chassis, and designed to be used with or without a
permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities and includes park
trailers, travel trailers, and other similar vehicles placed on a site for greater than 180
consecutive days. (ARM 36.15.101(15))
New Construction — Structures for which the commencement of clearing, grading,
filling, or excavating to prepare a site for construction occurs on or after the effective
date of these regulations and includes any subsequent improvements to such
structures. (ARM 36.15.101(20)) (44 CFR 59.1)
New Manufactured Home Park Or Subdivision — A manufactured home park or
subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the
manufactured homes are to be affixed includes at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads
and is completed on or after the effective date of floodplain management regulations
adopted by a community. (44 CFR 59.1)
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Non - Residential— Buildings including manufactured homes that are not residential
including commercial, agricultural, and industrial buildings. See Residential.
Owner — Any person who has dominion over, control of, or title to an artificial
obstruction. (MCA 76 -5- 103(13))
Person — Includes any individual, or group of individuals, corporation, partnership,
association or any other entity, including State and local governments and agencies. (44
CFR 59.1)
Recreational Vehicle — A park trailer, travel trailer, or other similar vehicle which is (a)
built on a single chassis; (b) 400 square feet or less when measured at the largest
horizontal projections; (c) designed to be self - propelled or permanently towable by a
truck; and (d) designed primarily for use as temporary living quarters for recreation,
camping, travel, or seasonal use, not for use as a permanent dwelling. (44 CFR 59.1)
Regulated Flood Hazard Area — A Flood Plain whose limits have been designated
pursuant to Part 2, Chapter 5 of Title 76, MCA, and is determined to be the area
adjoining the watercourse that would be covered by the floodwater of a Base Flood, a
flood of a 100 -year frequency. The Regulated Flood Hazard Area consists of the
Floodway and Flood Fringe where specifically designated. (MCA 76 -5- 103(4)), (MCA
76 -5- 103(10), (ARM 36 -15- 101(11))
Residential Building — A dwelling or building for living purposes or place of assembly
or permanent use by human beings and including any mixed use of residential and non-
residential use. All other buildings are non - residential.
Riprap — Stone, rocks, concrete blocks, or analogous material that are placed along the
bed or banks of a watercourse or drainway for the purpose of preventing or alleviating
erosion. (ARM 36.15.101(18))
Scour Depth — The maximum depth of streambed scour caused by erosive forces of
the Base Flood.
Special Flood Hazard Area — Land area which has been specifically identified by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency as the flood plain within a community subject
to a 1 percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. It is useful for the
purposes of identifying flood hazards by local subdivisions of government for regulatory
purposes as well as use by the National Flood Insurance Program for establishing risk
zones and flood insurance premium rates. The FEMA flood hazard area zone
designation or flood risk potential is as illustrated on FEMA's Flood Hazard Boundary
Map or Flood Insurance Rate Map.
Structure— Any Artificial Obstruction.
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Sub grade Crawlspace — A Crawlspace foundation enclosure where the sub grade
under -floor area is no more than 5 feet below the top of the next higher floor and no
more than 2 feet below the lowest adjacent grade on all sides. A foundation exceeding
either dimension is a Basement. (NFIP Insurance Manual, Rev. May 2013)
Substantial Damage — Damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost
of restoring the structure to its before - damaged condition would exceed 50 percent of
the market value of the structure before the damage occurred. (44 CFR 59.1)
Substantial Improvement — Any repair, reconstruction or improvement of a structure
where the cost equals or exceeds fifty percent (50) of the market value of the structure
either before the improvement or repair is started or if the structure has been damaged,
and is being restored, before the damage occurred;
1. Substantial improvement is considered to occur when the first construction of any
wall, ceiling, floor or other structural part of the building commences;
2. The term does not include:
1. Any project for improvement of a structure to comply with existing state or
local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which are solely necessary
to assure safe living conditions; or
2. Any alteration of a structure listed on the national register of historic places or
state inventory of historic places. (ARM 36.15.101(21)) (44 CFR 59.1))
Suitable Fill — Fill material which is stable, compacted, well graded, and pervious, not
adversely affected by water and frost, devoid of trash or similar foreign matter, tree
stumps or other organic material; and is fitting for the purpose of supporting the
intended use and /or permanent structure. (ARM 36.15.101(22))
Variance — Means a grant or relief from the development requirements of these
regulations which would permit construction in a manner that would be otherwise
prohibited by these regulations by an approval pursuant Section 12. (ARM
36.15.101(23))
Violation — A finding and order pursuant to the regulations against the owner or
responsible party of the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant
with these regulations. (44 CFR 59.1)
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SECTION 3. FORMS AND FEES
3.1 Forms The following forms may be required by the Flood Plain Administrator:
1. Flood Plain Permit Application Form —The "Joint Application for Proposed
Work in Montana's Steams, Wetlands, Regulated Flood Hazard Areas, and Other
Water Bodies ", or other designated application form. A completed FEMA MT -1
form may be required to accompany the application when required by the Flood
Plain Administrator.
2. Flood Plain Permit Compliance Report — A report required to be submitted by
the Applicant to the Flood Plain Administrator once the permitted project in the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area is completed or within the designated time
stipulated on the Flood Plain permit. A compliance report including an elevation
and or flood proofing certificate may be required where specified.
3. Flood Plain Variance Application Form — An application submitted by the
Applicant to the Flood Plain Administrator for review of the proposed project prior
to the initiation of the project requiring a variance.
4. Flood Plain Appeal Notice Form— A form submitted by the Applicant or an
aggrieved party as a notice and request for review of the decision to grant, grant
with conditions or deny a flood plain permit as issued by the Flood Plain
Administrator and to be reviewed pursuant to Section 13.
5. Flood Plain Emergency Notification Form— A written notification form required
to be used by persons to notify the Flood Plain Administrator of projects
undertaken during an emergency to safeguard life or structures. This is not a
Flood Plain Permit application and the person must take additional steps, as
outlined in Section 11.
6. Official Complaint Form — A form that may be used by any person to notify the
Flood Plain Administrator of an activity taking place without an approved and
required Flood Plain permit. Persons may make complaints without use of this
form.
3.2 Fees
A reasonable application fee for processing of permit applications may be imposed.
Fees may be adopted for costs of permit applications, notices, variances, inspections,
certifications or other administrative actions required by these regulations. (ARM
36.15.204(3)(b))
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SECTION 4. REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA
4.1 REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
1. The Regulated Flood Hazard Areas are the 100 -year flood plains illustrated and
referenced in the following specific studies and reports described as follows:
November 6, 2013 FEMA Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and Flood Insurance Rate
Maps (FIRMs) for Yellowstone County, Montana and Incorporated areas
EXAMPLE FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
1. August 16, 2014 FEMA Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and Flood
Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) for Missoula County, Montana and
including areas of the 100 -year floodplain, and
1. Amendment 1 adopted by DNRC Order of July 15, 2015 and
referenced as FEMA Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) dated
August 16, 2015, Number 11- 08 -0184P revising Flood
Insurance Rate Maps 30063C1190D and 30063C1195D and
Flood Insurance Study for Missoula County; and
2. Floodplain Management Study for Swan River adopted by DNRC on
July 10, 2016.
2. The Regulated Flood Hazard Areas specifically described or illustrated in the
above referenced studies and maps of the 100 -year flood plain have been
delineated, designated and established by order or determination by the DNRC
pursuant to 76 -5 -201 et.seq., MCA.
3. Use allowances, design and construction requirements specifically in Sections 5,
6, 9, and 10 in these regulations vary by the specific Flood Plain areas including
areas identified as Floodway and Flood Fringe within the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area.
4.2 INTERPRETATION OF REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA BOUNDARIES
1. The mapped boundaries of the Flood Plain illustrated in the referenced studies
and maps in this Section are a guide for determining whether property is within
the Regulated Flood Hazard Area.
2. A determination of the outer limits and boundaries of the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area or the Flood Fringe and Floodway within the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area includes an evaluation of the maps as well as the particular study
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data referenced in this Section. The supporting study material takes precedence
over any map illustrations.
3. The Flood Plain boundary is delineated by the Base Flood Elevation. The actual
intersection of the applicable study Base Flood Elevations with the natural
adjacent terrain of the watercourse or channel is the physical field Flood Plain
regulatory boundary. (ARM 36.15.501(6))
4. The Floodway boundary where identified within the Flood Plain is as illustrated on
the referenced maps and studies. Since the Floodway boundary is a study
feature, the location of the boundary may be physically located by referencing the
study data to a ground feature. The Flood Plain Administrator's interpretation of
the boundary and decision may be appealed as set forth in Section 13.
5. If the Flood Plain Administrator determines a proposed development is within the
regulatory area:
1. Where Base Flood Elevations exist, the property owner may provide
additional information which may include elevation information provided by an
engineer or land surveyor in order to re- determine if the proposed
development is subject to these regulations. (ARM 36.15.501(6))
2. Where Base Flood Elevations do not exist, the property owner may provide
additional information to be considered to re- determine the scaled location of
the regulatory boundary or altematively provide a computed Base Flood
Elevation provided by an engineer.
3. The Flood Plain Administrator's interpretation of the boundaries and decision
may be appealed as set forth in Section 13.
6. Any owner or lessee of property who believes his property has been inadvertently
included in the Flood Plain including the Floodway or Flood Fringe of the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area may submit scientific and /or technical information
to the Flood Plain Administrator for a determination if the property is
appropriately located. Scientific or technical information submitted to FEMA by
an owner to affect the insurance rating for insurance purposes may be
considered by the Flood Plain Administrator. A determination by the Flood Plain
Administrator is independent of any determination by FEMA for insurance
purposes. Any request for a FEMA determination of the flood insurance risk
rating of a property or structure relative to the FEMA Special Flood Hazard area
is the responsibility of the owner or lessee.
FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
When property located within the Regulated Flood Hazard area is naturally above
the Base Flood Elevation as proven by a certified elevation survey provided by an
engineer or land surveyor, the property owner may submit a Letter of Map
Amendment (LOMA) to FEMA in order to affect the flood risk designation for
insurance purposes. Information on the process and requirements are available
through FEMA.
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4.3 ALTERATION OF REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA
1. An alteration of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area is a DNRC approved
amendment to the DNRC order that originally delineated and designated the
100 -year flood plain and is the basis of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area
referenced in Section 4.1.2. A DNRC approved alteration consists of
revisions or updates to the specific maps and data of the referenced studies
in this Section and forms the basis for an amendment to the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area in these regulations; (ARM 36.15.505)
2. Any alteration can only be implemented by an amendment to the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area described in Section 4.1.1;
3. An alteration of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area may be the result of DNRC
consideration of substantial natural physical change or new technical or
scientific flood data showing that the Base Flood Elevation has or may be
changed or was erroneously established; (ARM 36.15.505(1)(a)) (44 CFR
65.3)
4. Any proposed development or artificial obstruction that causes an increase of
0.5 feet or more to the Base Flood Elevation of a Regulated Flood Hazard
Area without a Floodway or an increase of more than 0.00 feet to the Base
Flood Elevation of a Floodway requires a DNRC approved alteration of the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area pursuant to 76 -5 -203, MCA. A petition to
DNRC from any person for alteration of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area by
DNRC must include the following information:
1. Certification that no buildings are located in the areas which would be
impacted by the increased Base Flood Elevation; (44 CFR 65.12(a)(5)
2. Evidence of notice and concurrence of all property and land owners of
the proposed impacts to their properties; (44 CFR 65.12(a)(3))
3. Information that demonstrates that altematives are not feasible; (44
CFR 65.12(2))
4. Information that demonstrates that development is for a public use or
benefit; and
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5. Any other supporting information and data as needed for approvals.
((ARM 36.15.505) (44 CFR 60.3(c)(10)) (44 CFR 60.3(d)(3)) (44 CFR 65.12))
5. The Flood Plain Administrator may represent any necessary applications,
approvals or endorsements by the permit authority to FEMA where affecting
the FEMA Special Flood Hazard Area;
FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY
Once DNRC approves an Alteration and the community amends the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area, the community is then required per
agreement between the community and FEMA to obtain approval by
CLOMR from FEMA before there is any physical change to the Special
Flood Hazard Area. A flood plain permit implementing the physical
change cannot be approved until CLOMR approval from FEMA is
granted.
6. A determination by the Flood Plain Administrator that land areas located
within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area are naturally at or above the Base
Flood Elevation as proven by a certified elevation survey does not constitute
or require an alteration or an amendment of the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area; and
7. Elevating with suitable fill as permitted does not alter the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area or remove the elevated area from the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area. (ARM 36.15.505(2))
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SECTION 5. USES ALLOWED WITHOUT A PERMIT
WITHIN THE REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA
5.1 - GENERAL The following open space uses shall be allowed without a permit in
the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, provided that such uses are not prohibited by any
other ordinance or statute, do not require structures, and do not require fill, grading,
excavation or storage of materials or equipment: ((ARM 36.15.601) (ARM
36.15.701)(1) (MCA 76 -5 -401) )
1. Agricultural uses, not including related structures, such as tilling, farming,
irrigation, ranching, harvesting, grazing, etc; ((ARM 36.15.601(1)(a)) (MCA 76 -5-
401(1)))
2. Accessory uses, not including structures, such as loading and parking areas, or
emergency landing strips associated with industrial or commercial facilities;
((ARM 36.15.601(1)(b)) (MCA 76 -5- 401(2),))
3. Forestry, including processing of forest products with portable equipment; ((ARM
36.15.601(1)(d)) (MCA 76 -5- 401(4)))
4. Recreational vehicle use provided that the vehicle is on the site for fewer than
180 consecutive days and the vehicle is fully licensed and ready for highway use.
A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking
system with wheels intact, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type
utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions; (44
CFR 60.3(c)(14))
5. Residential uses such as lawns, gardens, parking areas, and play areas; ((ARM
36.15.601(1)(e)) (MCA 76 -5- 401(5)))
6. Maintenance of the existing state of an existing open space uses including
preventive maintenance activities such as bridge deck rehabilitation and roadway
pavement preservation activities. Maintenance cannot increase the external size
or increase the hazard potential of the existing open space use; (MCA 76-5 -
404(3)(b))
7. Public or private recreational uses not requiring structures such as picnic
grounds, swimming areas, boat ramps, parks, campgrounds, golf courses,
driving ranges, archery ranges, wildlife management and natural areas,
alternative livestock ranches (game farms), fish hatcheries, shooting preserves,
target ranges, trap and skeet ranges, hunting and fishing areas, and hiking and
horseback riding trails; (ARM 36.15.601(a)(c)) (MCA 76 -5- 401,))
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8. Fences that have a low impact to the flow of water such as barbed wire fences
and wood rail fences, and not including permanent fences crossing channels.
Fences that have the potential to stop or impede flow or debris such as a chain
link or privacy fence requires a flood plain permit; (ARM 36.15.601(2)(b)) (MCA
76 -5 -401))
9. Addition of highway guard rail, signing and utility poles that have a low impact to
the flow of water along an existing roadway.
10. Irrigation and livestock supply wells, provided that they are located at least 500
feet from domestic water supply wells and with the top of casing 18" above the
Base Flood Elevation. ((ARM 36.15.601(2)(a)) (MCA 76 -5 -401) (ARM 36.21.647))
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SECTION 6. PROHIBITED USES, ACTIVITIES AND
STRUCTURES WITHIN THE REGULATED FLOOD
HAZARD AREA
6.1 FLOODWAY The following artificial obstructions and nonconforming uses are
prohibited in the Floodway of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area:
1. A building for residential or non - residential purposes; (MCA 76 -5- 403(1), (ARM
36.15.605)(1a)), (ARM 36.15.605(2b), (ARM 36.15.605(2)(a)).
2. A structure, fill, or excavation that would cause water to be diverted from the
Floodway, cause erosion, obstruct the natural flow of waters or reduce the
carrying capacity of the Floodway. Notwithstanding these requirements,
excavation or fill may be allowed when it is a component to a permitted use
allowed in these regulations; (MCA 76 -5- 403(2)).
3. The construction or storage of an object (artificial obstruction) subject to flotation
or movement during flood level periods; (MCA 76 -5- 403(3) and ARM
36.15.605(1)(c))
4. Solid and Hazardous waste disposal and individual and multiple family sewage
disposal systems unless the systems meet the local health and sanitation
regulations and when permitted pursuant to these regulations; (ARM 36-15 -
605(2c))
5. Storage of toxic, flammable, hazardous or explosive materials; and (ARM
36.15.605(2d))
6. Cemeteries, mausoleums, or any other burial grounds.
6.2 FLOOD FRINGE OR REGULATED FLOOD HAZARD AREA WITHOUT A
FLOODWAY The following artificial obstructions and nonconforming uses are
prohibited in the Flood Fringe or Regulated Flood Hazard Area without a Floodway:
1. Solid and hazardous waste disposal;(ARM 36 -15- 703(1))
2. Storage of toxic, flammable, hazardous or explosive materials; (ARM 36 -15-
703(2))
3. The construction or storage of an artificial obstruction subject to flotation or
movement during flood level periods;
4. Cemeteries, mausoleums, or any other burial grounds; and
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5. Critical facilities, including buildings and associated structures that provide
essential community care and emergency operation functions such as schools,
hospitals, nursing home facilities, fire stations and police stations. (44CFR
60.22(a)(2))
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SECTION 7. FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATION
REQUIREMENTS
7.1 GENERAL
1. A Flood Plain permit is required for a person to establish, alter or substantially
improve an artificial obstruction, nonconforming use or development within the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area; ((44 CFR 60.1) (MCA 76 -5 -404) (ARM
36.15.204(2)(a)))
2. A Flood Plain permit is required for artificial obstructions, nonconforming uses
and uses not specifically listed in Sections 9 and 10, except as allowed without a
Flood Plain permit in Section 5 or as prohibited as specified in Section 6, within
the Regulated Flood Hazard Area;
3. Artificial obstructions and nonconforming uses in a Regulated Flood Hazard Area
not exempt under Section 5 are public nuisances unless a Flood Plain permit has
been obtained; (MCA 76 -5- 404(1))
4. A Flood Plain permit is required for an alteration of an established artificial
obstruction or nonconforming use that increases the external size or increases its
potential flood hazard and not exempt under Section 5; ((MCA 76- 5- 404(3)(b))
(ARM 36.15.204(2)(a)))
5. A Flood Plain permit is required to reconstruct or repair an existing established
structure that has experienced substantial damage or will undergo substantial
improvement; and
6. Maintenance of the existing state of an artificial obstruction or nonconforming use
is not an alteration of an existing artificial obstruction. Maintenance cannot
increase the external size or increase the flood hazard potential of the existing
artificial obstruction or nonconforming use. (MCA 76- 5- 404(3)(b))
7.2 REQUIRED FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATION INFORMATION
1. A Flood Plain permit application shall include, but is not limited to the following:
1. A completed and signed Flood Plain Permit Application;
2. The required review fee;
3. Plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the location, dimensions, and
elevation of the proposed project including landscape alterations, existing and
proposed structures, and the location of the foregoing in relation to the
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Regulated Flood Hazard Areas and if applicable the Floodway boundary;
((MCA 76 -5 -405) (ARM 36.15.216))
4. A copy of other required applicable permits or pending applications as
submitted which may include but are not limited to a 310 permit, SPA 124
permit, Section 404 Permit, 318 Authorization, 401 Certification or a
Navigable Rivers Land Use License or Easement from federal, state, and
local agencies, for the proposed floodplain project; and the applicant must
show that the Flood Plain permit application is not in conflict with the relevant
and applicable permits; and (44 CFR 6O.3(a)(2))
5. Additional information related to the specific use or activity that demonstrates
the design criteria and construction standards are met or exceeded as
specified in Sections 9 and 10. ((MCA 76 -5 -405) (ARM 36.15.216))
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SECTION 8. FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATION
EVALUATION
8. 1 FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATION REVIEW
1. The Flood Plain Administrator shall review and evaluate the Flood Plain
application and shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application
within (60 days or a time specified) of receipt of a correct and complete
application. (MCA 76 -5- 405(2))
2. The Flood Plain Administrator shall determine whether the Flood Plain application
contains the applicable elements required in these regulations and shall notify
the applicant of the Flood Plain Administrator's determination.
3. If the Flood Plain application is found insufficient and if the applicant corrects
the identified deficiencies and resubmits the Flood Plain application, the Flood
Plain Administrator shall notify the applicant whether the resubmitted Flood
Plain application contains all the elements required by these regulations, as
applicable.
4. This process shall be repeated until the applicant submits a completed Flood
Plain application containing all the elements required by these regulations, or the
application is withdrawn.
5. If after a reasonable effort the Flood Plain Administrator determines that the
Flood Plain application remains incomplete, the Flood Plain Administrator shall
deny the Flood Plain application and notify the applicant of missing elements. No
further action shall be taken on the Flood Plain application by the Flood Plain
Administrator until the Flood Plain application is resubmitted.
6. A determination that an Flood Plain application contains the appropriate
information for review does not ensure that the Flood Plain permit application will
be approved or conditionally approved and does not limit the ability of the Flood
Plain Administrator in requesting additional information during the review
process.
8.2. NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT APPLICATIONS:
1. Upon receipt of a complete application for a Flood Plain permit, the Flood Plain
Administrator shall prepare a notice containing the facts pertinent to the Flood
Plain permit application and shall:
1. Publish the notice at least once in a newspaper of general circulation in the
area; (ARM 36.15.204(2)(c))
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2. Serve notice by first -class mail upon adjacent property owners; (ARM
36.15.204(2)(c))
3. Serve notice to the State National Flood Insurance Program Coordinator
located in DNRC by the most efficient method. Notice to other permitting
agencies or other impacted property owners may be provided; and
4. Prior to any alteration or relocation of a watercourse in the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area, additionally provide notice to FEMA and adjacent communities.
(44 CFR 60.3 (b)(6))
2. The notice shall provide a reasonable period of time, not less than 15 days, for
interested parties to submit comments on the proposed activity. (ARM
36.15.204(2)(c))
8. 3 FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT CRITERIA
1. Flood Plain permit applications shall be approved or denied on the basis of
whether the proposed new construction, substantial improvement, or alteration of
an artificial obstruction or nonconforming use is not prohibited and meets the
requirements of the minimum standards and criteria in Sections 9 and 10 and
other requirements of these regulations. ((MCA 76 -5 -406) (44 CFR 60.3))
2. A flood plain permit application that proposes a development that is determined
to cause an increase of more than 0.00 feet to the Base Flood Elevation of the
Floodway or more than 0.50 feet to the Base Flood Elevation of the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area without a Floodway, may be approved only if an Alteration
pursuant to Section 4.3 has been approved and the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area is amended herein.
3. The Flood Plain Administrator must determine that all necessary permits have
been received from those governmental agencies from which approval is
required by Federal or State law, including section 404 of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Act Amendment of 1972, 36 U.S.C. 1334.(44 CFR 60.3(a)(2)
8.4 DECISION
1. The Flood Plain Administrator shall approve, conditionally approve, or deny the
proposed Flood Plain application. The Flood Plain Administrator shall notify the
applicant of his action and the reasons thereof within (60 days or time specified)
of receipt of a correct and complete Flood Plain application unless otherwise
specified. A copy of the approved Flood Plain permit must be provided to DNRC.
((MCA 76 -5- 405(2)) (ARM 36.15.204(2)(e))
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2. The approval of a Flood Plain permit application does not affect any other type of
approval required by any other statute or ordinance of the state or any political
subdivision or the United States, but is an added requirement. (MCA 76 -5 -108)
8.5 FLOOD PLAIN PERMIT CONDITIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
1. Upon approval or conditional approval of the Flood Plain permit application, the
Flood Plain Administrator shall provide the applicant with a Flood Plain permit
with applicable specific requirements and conditions including but not limited to
the following:
1. The Flood Plain permit will become valid when all other necessary permits are
in place;(44 CFR 60.3(a)(2)
2. The Flood Plain permit will be valid for to one year from the date of Flood Plain
permit issuance or a time limit commensurate with the project construction
time line for completion of the project or development. The applicant may
request an extension for up to an additional year. The request must be made
at least 30 days prior to the completion deadline;
3. The applicant shall notify subsequent property owners and their agents and
potential buyers of the Flood Plain development permit issued on the property
and that such property is located within a Regulated Flood Hazard Area;
(ARM 36.15.204(2)(g))
4. The applicant shall maintain the artificial obstruction or use to comply with the
conditions and specifications of the permit;
5. The applicant shall allow the Flood Plain Administrator to perform on site
inspections at select intervals during construction or completion;
6. The applicant shall provide periodic engineering oversight and /or interim
reports during the construction period to be submitted to the Flood Plain
Administrator to confirm constructed elevations and other project elements;
7. The applicant shall submit a compliance report including certifications where
required and applicable including flood proofing, elevation, surface drainage,
proper enclosure openings and materials to the Flood Plain Administrator
within 30 days of completion or other time as specified;
8. The applicant shall submit an annual performance and maintenance report on
bank stabilization or other projects utilizing maturing vegetative components to
the Flood Plain Administrator; and
9. The applicant shall submit evidence of an approved FEMA Letter of Map
Revision to FEMA within 6 months of completion. (44 CFR 65.3)
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SECTION 9. DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS IN THE
FLOODWAY
9.1 USES REQUIRING PERMITS Uses specifically listed in Sections 9.3 to 9.15 may
be allowed by permit within the Floodway, provided the General Requirements in
Section 9.2 and the applicable requirements in Sections 9.3 to 9.15 are met.
9.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS An application for a permit must demonstrate
compliance with all of the following requirements:
1. All projects must be designed and constructed to ensure that they do not
adversely affect the flood hazard on other properties and are reasonably safe
from flooding; and ((44 CFR 60.3(a)(3 and 4))
2. All projects must assure that the carrying capacity of the Floodway is not
reduced. All projects in the Floodway must be supported by an encroachment
analysis, a thorough hydrologic and hydraulic analysis prepared by an engineer
to demonstrate the effect on flood flows, velocities and the Base Flood Elevation,
and meet the following:
((ARM 36.15.604) (ARM 36.15.605(b)) (44 CFR 60.3(d)(3 and 4)))
1. No increase (0.00 feet) to the Base Flood Elevation is allowed, unless
approval of an alteration of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area pursuant to
Section 4.3 and an approved FEMA Conditional Letter of Map Revision
occurs before permit issuance; and ((ARM 36.15.604) (ARM 36.15.505)
(44CFR 65.12(a)))
2. Although all other development standards herein apply, a minimal or
qualitative encroachment analysis may be accepted when the project or
development does not require a structure, alteration of the Floodway, involve
fill, grading, excavation or storage of materials or equipment and also is
certified by an engineer to not exceed the allowable encroachment.
3. An application for a Flood Plain permit must also demonstrate the following
factors are considered and incorporated into the design of the use or artificial
obstruction in the Floodway:
1. The danger to life and property due to backwater or diverted flow caused by
the obstruction or use; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(1)) (ARM 36.15.216(2)(a)))
2. The danger that the obstruction or use may be swept downstream to the injury
of others; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(2)) (ARM 36.15.216(2)(b)))
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3. The availability of alternative locations; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(3)) (ARM
36.15.216(2)(c))
4. The construction or alteration of the obstruction or use in such manner as to
lessen the flooding danger; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(4)) (ARM 36.15.216(2)(d)))
5. The permanence of the obstruction or use; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(5) (ARM
36.15.216(2e)))
6. The anticipated development in the foreseeable future of the area which may
be affected by the obstruction or use; ((MCA 76 -5- 406(6)) (ARM
36.15.216(2f)))
7. Relevant and related permits for the project have been obtained; (44 CFR
60.3(a)(2))
8. Such other factors as are in harmony with the purposes of these regulations,
the Montana Flood Plain and Floodway Management Act, and the
accompanying Administrative Rules of Montana; and ((MCA 76 -5- 406(7))
(ARM 36.15.216(2)(g)))
9. The safety of access to property in times of flooding for ordinary and
emergency services. (44CFR 60.22 (c)(7))
9.3 MINING OF MATERIAL REQUIRING EXCAVATION FROM PITS OR POOLS
provided that:
1. A buffer strip of undisturbed land of sufficient width as determined by an engineer
to prevent flood flows from channeling into the excavation is left between the
edge of the channel and the edge of the excavation; (ARM 36.15.602(1)(a))
2. The excavation meets all applicable laws and regulations of other local and state
agencies; and (ARM 36.15.602(1)(b))
3. Excavated material may be processed on site but is stockpiled outside the
Floodway.(ARM 36.15.602(1)(c))
9.4 RAILROAD, HIGHWAY AND STREET STREAM CROSSINGS provided that:
1. Crossings are designed to offer minimal obstructions to the flood flow; (ARM
36.15.602(2))
2. Where failure or interruption of public transportation facilities would result in
danger to public health or safety and where practicable and in consideration of
FHWA Federal -Aid Policy Guide 23CFR650A:
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1. Bridge lower chords shall have freeboard to at least two (2) feet above the
Base Flood Elevation to help pass ice flows, the base flood discharge and
any debris associated with the discharge; and
2. Culverts shall be designed to pass the Base Flood discharge and maintain at
least two (2) feet freeboard on the crossing surface;
3. Normal overflow channels, if possible are preserved to allow passage of
sediments to prevent aggradations; and
4. Mid stream supports for bridges, if necessary, have footings buried below the
maximum scour depth.
9.5 LIMITED FILLING FOR ROAD AND RAILROAD EMBANKMENTS not associated
with stream crossings and bridges provided that:
1. The fill is suitable fill;
2. Reasonable alternate transportation routes outside the floodway are not
available; (ARM 36.15.602(3))
3. The encroachment is located as far from the stream channel as possible; and
(ARM 36.15.602(3))
4. The project includes mitigation of impacts to other property owners in the vicinity
of the project and the natural stream function.
9.6 BURIED OR SUSPENDED UTILITY TRANSMISSION LINES provided that:
1. Suspended utility transmission lines are designed such that the lowest point of
the suspended line is at least six (6) feet higher than the Base Flood Elevation;
(ARM 36.15.602(4))
2. Towers and other appurtenant structures are designed and placed to withstand
and offer minimal obstruction to flood flows; (ARM 36.15.602(4))
3. Altematives such as alternative routes, directional drilling, and aerial crossings
are considered when technically feasible; and
4. Utility transmission lines carrying toxic or flammable materials are buried to a
depth of at least twice the calculated maximum scour depth determined by an
engineer for the Base Flood. (ARM 36.15.602(4))
9.7 STORAGE OF MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT provided that:
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1. The material or equipment is not subject to major damage by flooding and is
properly anchored to prevent flotation or downstream movement; or (ARM
36.15.602(5)(a))
2. The material or equipment is readily removable within the limited time available
after flood warning. Storage of flammable, toxic or explosive materials shall not
be permitted.(ARM 36.15.602(5)(b))
9.8 DOMESTIC WATER SUPPLY WELLS provided that:
1. They are driven or drilled wells located on ground higher than surrounding ground
to assure positive drainage from the well; (ARM 36.15.602(6))
2. They require no other structures (e.g. a well house); (ARM 36.15.602(6))
3. Well casings are water tight to a distance of at least twenty five (25) feet below
the ground surface and the well casing height is a minimum of eighteen (18)
inches above the Base Flood Elevation or capped with a watertight seal and
vented eighteen (18) inches above the Base Flood Elevation; ((ARM
36.15.602(6)) (ARM 36.21.647))
4. Water supply lines have a watertight seal where the lines enter the casing; (ARM
36.15.602(6))
5. All pumps and electrical lines and equipment are either of the submersible type or
are adequately flood proofed; and (ARM 36.15.602(6))
6. Check valves are installed on main water lines at wells and at all building entry
locations. ((44 CFR 60.3 (a)(5)) (ARM 36.15.602(6)))
9.9 BURIED AND SEALED VAULTS FOR SEWAGE DISPOSAL IN CAMPGROUNDS
AND RECREATIONAL AREAS provided they meet applicable laws and standards
administered by Montana Department of Environmental Quality. Only those wastewater
disposal systems that meet the requirements and separation distances under the
appropriate health and sanitation regulations are allowed. ((44 CFR 60.3(a)(6)) (ARM
36.15.602(7)))
9.10 PUBLIC AND PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS provided that:
1. Access roads require only limited fill and do not obstruct or divert flood waters;
(ARM 36.15.602(8))
2. The project meets the accessory structures requirements in this Section;
3. No dwellings or permanent mobile homes are allowed; (ARM 36.15.602(8))
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4. Recreational vehicles and travel trailers are ready for highway use with wheels
intact, with only quick disconnect type utilities and securing devices, and have no
permanently attached additions; and (44 CFR 60.3(c)(14))
5. There is no large -scale clearing of riparian vegetation within 50 feet of the mean
annual high water mark.
9.11 STRUCTURES ACCESSORY OR APPURTENANT to permitted uses such as
boat docks, loading and parking areas, marinas, sheds, emergency airstrips, permanent
fences crossing channels, picnic shelters and tables and lavatories, that are incidental
to a principal structure, provided that:
1. The structures are not intended for human habitation or supportive of human
habitation; (ARM 36.15.602(9))
2. The structures will have low flood damage potential; (ARM 36.15.602(9))
3. The structures will, insofar as possible, be located on ground higher than the
surrounding ground and as far from the channel as possible; (ARM 36.15.602(9))
4. The structures will be constructed and placed so as to offer a minimal obstruction
to flood flows; (ARM 36.15.602(9))
5. Only those wastewater disposal systems that meet the requirements and
separation distances under health and sanitation regulations are allowed;
6. Service facilities within these structures such as electrical, heating and plumbing
are flood proofed according to the requirements in Section 10; (ARM
36.15.602(9))
7. The structures are firmly anchored to prevent flotation; (ARM 36.15.602(9))
8. The structures do not require fill and /or substantial excavation;
9. The structures or use cannot be changed or altered without permit approval; and
10. There is no large scale clearing of riparian vegetation within 50 feet of the mean
annual high water mark.
9.12 CONSTRUCTION OF OR MODIFICATIONS TO SURFACE WATER
DIVERSIONS provided that the design is prepared and approved by an engineer and
includes:
1. Measures to minimize potential erosion from a Base Flood; and (ARM
36.15.603(3)(b))
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2. Plans that demonstrate any permanent structure crossing the stream is designed
to safely withstand up to the Base Flood. (ARM 36.15.603(3)(c))
9.13 FLOOD CONTROL AND BANK PROTECTION MEASURES provided the design
is reviewed and approved by an engineer and constructed to substantially resist or
withstand the forces associated with hydrodynamic and hydrostatic pressures, including
flood depths, velocities, impact, ice, buoyancy, and uplift forces associated with the
Base Flood in addition to an encroachment analysis. The design must also show
compliance with the following applicable criteria: ((CFR 60.3(a)(3), (CFR 60.3(d)(3))
(ARM 36.15.606))
1. LEVEE AND FLOODWALL construction or alteration:
1. Must be designed and constructed with suitable fill and be designed to safely
convey a Base Flood; (ARM 36.15.606(1)(a))
2. Must be constructed at least 3 feet higher than the elevation of the Base
Flood unless the levee or floodwall protects agricultural land only; (ARM
36.15.606(2)(a))
3. Must meet state and federal levee engineering and construction standards
and be publically owned and maintained if it protects structures of more than
one landowner; and
(ARM 36.15.505(1)(c)(ii)and (iii))
4. For any increase in the elevation of the Base Flood the following information
must be provided:
1. The estimated cumulative effect of other reasonably anticipated future
permissible uses;
2. The type and amount of existing flood prone development in the affected
area; and
3. Impacts to existing or foreseeable development.
(ARM 36.15.606(2))
2. BANK STABILIZATION, PIER AND ABUTMENT PROTECTION projects:
1. Must be designed and constructed using methods and materials that are the
least environmentally damaging yet practicable, and should be designed to
withstand a Base Flood once the project's vegetative components are mature
within a period of up to 5 years or other time as required by the Flood Plain
Administrator. Once vegetation is mature and established it should not require
substantial yearly maintenance after the initial period;
2. Materials for the project may be designed to erode over time but not fail
catastrophically and impact others. Erosion, sedimentation, and transport of
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the materials may be designed to be at least similar in amount and rate of
existing stable natural stream banks during the Base Flood;
3. Must not increase erosion upstream, downstream, across from or adjacent to
the site in excess of the existing stable natural stream bank during the Base
Flood; (ARM 36.15.606(1)(b))
4. Materials for the project may include but are not limited to riprap, root wads,
brush mattresses, willow wattles, natural woody debris or combinations of
analogous materials;
5. The stream's biological capacity and habitat potential is not degraded and the
project enhances or restores the terrestrial and aquatic resource capabilities
of the area.
6. Must include compensating efforts by replacing and providing substitute
resources or environments through creation, restoration, enhancement or
preservation of similar or appropriate resource areas.
3. CHANNELIZATION PROJECTS where the excavation and /or construction of an
channel is for the purpose of diverting the entire or a portion of the flow of a
stream from its established course, the project must:
1. Not increase the magnitude, velocity, or elevation of the Base Flood; and
2. Meet the requirements of Section 9.13.2.
(ARM 36.15.101(7)) (ARM 36.15.606(1)(c))
4. DAMS:
1. The design and construction shall be in accordance with the Montana Dam
Safety Act and applicable safety standards;
2. The project shall not increase flood hazards downstream either through
operational procedures or improper hydrologic/hydraulic design; and (ARM
36.15.606(1)(d)
3. Mitigation of upstream flooding and impacts to the stream's biological capacity
and habitat is required.
9.14 STREAM AND BANK RESTORATION projects intended to reestablish the
terrestrial and aquatic attributes of a natural stream and not for protection of a structure
or development provided that:
1. The project will not increase velocity or erosion upstream, downstream, across
from or adjacent to the site; (ARM 36.15.606(1)(b))
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2. Materials may include but are not limited to boulders, rock cobble, gravel, native
stream bed materials, root wads, brush mattresses, willow wattles, natural
woody debris or combinations of analogous materials;
3. Erosion, sedimentation, and transport of the materials are not more than the
amount and rate of existing natural stream banks during the Base Flood;
4. The project may be designed to allow vegetative materials to mature within a
period up to 5 years or other time as required by the Flood Plain Administrator.
Once vegetation is mature and established it should not require substantial
yearly maintenance after the initial period; and
5. The stream's biological capacity and habitat potential is not degraded and the
project enhances or restores the terrestrial and aquatic resource capabilities of
the area.
9.15 ALTERATIONS TO EXISTING RESIDENTIAL AND NON - RESIDENTIAL
BUILDINGS IN THE FLOODWAY where any change or addition to an existing building
either increases the external dimensions or increases the potential flood hazard,
provided the General Requirements of Section 9.2 and the applicable requirements for
residential and non - residential buildings in Section 10 are met. (MCA76- 5- 404(3)(b))
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SECTION 10. DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS IN
THE FLOOD FRINGE OR REGULATED FLOOD
HAZARD AREA WITH NO FLOODWAY
10.1 USES REQUIRING PERMITS — All uses allowed by permit in the Floodway shall
also be allowed by permit within the Flood Fringe or Regulated Flood Hazard Area with
no Floodway. Such uses are subject to the requirements in Section 9, with the
exception of the encroachment limit of Section 9.2.2. Instead, such uses are subject to
the encroachment limits of this Section.
Except for prohibited artificial obstructions in Section 6.2, all other artificial obstructions
including new construction, substantial improvements, alterations to residential, and
nonresidential structures including manufactured homes, and related suitable fill or
excavation shall be allowed by permit and are subject to the requirements in this
Section and General Requirements of Section 9.2, with the exception of the
encroachment limit of Section 9.2.2.
(ARM 36.15.701(2))
10.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS An application for a Flood Plain permit must
demonstrate or meet the following applicable requirements:
1. Base Flood Elevation Base Flood Elevation(s) must be determined by an
engineer and utilized in the design and layout of the project demonstrating the
design and construction criteria herein are met. For Regulated Flood Hazard
Areas that do not have computed and published Base Flood Elevations in the
adopted flood hazard study referenced in Section 4, a Base Flood Elevation must
be determined or obtained from a reliable source, utilizing appropriate
engineering methods and analyses;
2. Flood Damage Structures must be constructed by methods and practices that
minimize flood damage and structures must be reasonably safe from flooding;
((44 CFR 60.3(a)) (44 CFR 60.3(a)(3)(iii)))
3. Surface Drainage Adequate surface drainage must be provided around
structures;
4. Materials Structures must be constructed with materials resistant to flood
damage; ((44 CFR 60.3(a)) (44 CFR 60.3(a)(3)(ii))
5. Artificial Obstructions Structures, excavation or fill must not be prohibited by
any other statute, regulation, ordinance, or resolution; and must be compatible
with subdivision, zoning and any other land use regulations, if any; (ARM
36.15.701(3)(a)) ((ARM 36.15.701(3)(b))
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6. Anchoring All construction and substantial improvements must be designed
and adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of
the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic Toads, including the
effects of buoyancy;(44CFR 60.3(a)(3)
7. Certification Certification by an engineer, architect, land surveyor or other
qualified person must accompany the application where required including for an
encroachment analysis, adequacy of structural elevations, Base Flood Elevation
determinations, flood - proofing, enclosure flood openings and design and
construction to withstand the hydrodynamic forces and hydrostatic pressures of
flood depths, velocities, impact, buoyancy, uplift forces associated with the Base
Flood and surface drainage. A certification is not intended to constitute a
warranty or guarantee of performance, expressed or implied;
((ARM 36.15.606(1) (ARM 36.15.702(2)(c)) (ARM 36.15.801(3)(b)) (44 CFR 60.3(c)(3
&4)) (44 CFR 60.3 (d)(3)))
8. Access Structures must have safe access during times of flooding up to the
Base Flood for ordinary and emergency services provided there are no
reasonable altemate locations for structures;
9. Encroachment Analysis
1. All applications in the Regulated Flood Hazard Area without a Floodway must
be supported by an encroachment analysis of the proposed use, a thorough
hydrologic and hydraulic analysis except as provided in following paragraph
4, Section 10.2.9.4, prepared by an engineer to demonstrate the effect of the
structure on flood flows, velocities and the Base Flood Elevation; ((ARM
36.15.604) (44 CFR 60.3(a)(3))
2. The maximum allowable encroachment is certified to be at or less than 0.5
feet increase to the Base Flood Elevation unless approval of an alteration of
the Regulated Flood Hazard Area pursuant to Section 4 and an approved
FEMA Conditional Letter of Map Revision occurs before permit issuance;
((ARM 36.15.604) (ARM 36.15.505) (44 CRF 60.3(c)(13)))
3. An encroachment analysis is not required for any development in the Flood
Fringe where an accompanying Floodway has been designated within the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area; and
4. Although all other development standards herein apply, a minimal or
qualitative encroachment analysis may be accepted when the project or
development does not require a structure, alteration of the Floodplain, involve
fill, grading, excavation or storage of materials or equipment and also is
certified by an engineer to not exceed the allowable encroachment.
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10. Electrical Systems Flood Proofing All electrical service materials, equipment
and installation for uses in a Regulated Flood Hazard Area must be certified to
meet the following requirements:
1. All incoming power service equipment including all metering equipment,
control centers, transformers, distribution and lighting panels and all other
stationary equipment must be located at least two feet above the Base Flood
Elevation; (ARM 36.15.901(1)(a))
2. Portable and movable electrical equipment may be placed below the Base
Flood Elevation, provided that the equipment can be disconnected by a single
plug and socket assembly of the submersible type; (ARM 36.15.9O1(1)(b))
3. The main power service lines must have automatically operated electrical
disconnect equipment or manually operated electrical disconnect equipment
located at an accessible remote location outside the Regulated Flood Hazard
Area or two feet above the Base Flood Elevation; and (ARM 36.15.901(1)(c))
4. All electrical wiring systems installed below the Base Flood Elevation must be
suitable for continuous submergence and may not contain fibrous
components. (ARM 36.15.901(1)(d))
11. Heating and Cooling Systems Flood Proofing Heating and cooling systems
for uses in a Regulated Flood Hazard Area must be certified to meet the
following requirements:
1. Float operated automatic control valves must be installed so that fuel supply is
automatically shut off when flood waters reach the floor level where the
heating and cooling systems are located; (ARM36.15.902(1)(a))
2. Manually operated gate valves must be installed in gas supply lines. The gate
valves must be operable from a location above the Base Flood Elevation;
(ARM36.15.902(1)(b))
3. Electrical Systems flood proofing must be met; and (ARM36.15.902(1)(c))
4. Furnaces and cooling units and ductwork must be installed at least two (2)
feet above the Base Flood Elevation.
12. Plumbing Systems Flood Proofing Plumbing systems for uses in the
Regulated Flood Hazard Area must be certified to meet the following
requirements:
1. Sewer lines, except those to a buried and sealed vault, must have check
valves installed to prevent sewage backup into permitted structures; and
(ARM 36.15.903(1)(a))
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2. All toilets, stools, sinks, urinals, vaults, and drains must be located so the
lowest point of possible flood water entry is at least two (2) feet above the
Base Flood Elevation. (ARM 36.15.903(1)(b))
13. Structural Fill Flood Proofing Fill used to elevate structures, including but not
limited to residential, commercial, and industrial buildings meet and be certified
to the following requirements:
1. The fill must be a minimum of 0.5 feet above the Base Flood Elevation and
extend at least fifteen (15) feet beyond the structure in all directions.;
2. Fill material must be suitable fill, that is stable, compacted, well graded, and
pervious, not adversely affected by water and frost, devoid of trash or similar
foreign matter, tree stumps or other organic material; and is fitting for the
purpose of supporting the intended use and /or permanent structure. (ARM
36.15.101(22))
3. The fill must be compacted to minimize settlement and compacted to 95
percent of the maximum density. Compaction of earthen fill must be certified
by a engineer;
4. No portion of the fill is allowed within the floodway;
5. The fill slope must not be steeper than 1 'A horizontal to 1 vertical unless
substantiating data justifying a steeper slope is provided and adequate
erosion protection is provided for fill slopes exposed to floodwaters; and
6. Mitigation is required for lost natural flood storage due to added fill.
14. Wet Flood Proofing Building designs with an enclosure below the lowest floor
must be certified to meet the following:
1. The use of the enclosure is limited to parking, loading areas, building access,
and storage of equipment or materials not appreciably affected by
floodwaters; (ARM 36.15.702(2)(a))
2. Materials used for walls and floors are resistant to flooding to an elevation two
(2) feet or more above the Base Flood Elevation; (ARM 36.15.702(2)(a))
3. The enclosure must be designed to equalize hydrostatic forces on walls by
allowing for entry and exit of floodwaters. Opening designs must either be
certified by an engineer or architect or meet or exceed the following:
1. Automatically allow entry and exit of floodwaters through screens, louvers,
valves, and other coverings or devices;
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2. Have two (2) or more openings with a total net area of not less than one
(1) square inch for every one (1) square foot of enclosed area below the
Lowest Floor, except if the enclosure is partially subgrade, a minimum of 2
openings may be provided on a single wall; and
3. Have the bottom of all openings no higher than one (1) foot above the
exterior or interior adjacent higher grade or floor immediately below the
openings.
(44 CFR 60.3(c)(5)) (NFIP Insurance Manual, Rev. May 2013)
15. Dry Flood Proofing Building designs that do not allow internal flooding must
be certified to meet the following:
1. Be for non - residential use only;
2. Be Flood Proofed to an elevation no lower than two (2) feet above the Base
Flood Elevation;
3. Be constructed of impermeable membranes or materials for floors and walls
and have water tight enclosures for all windows, doors and other openings;
and
4. Be designed to withstand the hydrostatic pressures and hydrodynamic forces
resulting from the Base Flood and the effects of buoyancy.
((ARM 36.15.7O2(2)(b)) (44 CFR 6O.3(c)(3))
16. Elevation The lowest floor elevation (including basement) must be two (2) feet
above the Base Flood Elevation. A determination of the Base Flood Elevation is
certified by an engineer. Elevating may be by either suitable fill, stem walls,
pilings or other acceptable means; ((MCA 76- 5- 4O2(2)(b)) (44 CFR 60.3(b)(8))
(44 CFR 6O.3(c)(6)))
17. Enclosure Any enclosure below the lowest elevated floor must be designed to
meet the wet flood proofing requirements and the enclosure floor must be at or
above the Base Flood Elevation.
18. Basement Basements are not allowed in the floodplain except where the
basement floor is two (2) feet or more above the Base Flood Elevation;
19. Crawl Spaces Crawl space foundation enclosures including sub grade
crawlspace enclosures below the lowest floor must meet the wet flood proofing
requirements and be designed so that the crawl space floor is at or above the
Base Flood Elevation. Crawl space foundations must have an inside dimension
of not more than five (5) feet from the ground to the top of the living floor level
and a sub grade crawlspace must also have the interior ground surface no more
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than two (2) feet below the exterior lowest adjacent ground surface on all sides.
A sub grade foundation exceeding either dimension is a basement;
20. Variance Where strict compliance with flood proofing provisions is impossible
because of existing streets, utilities, lot dimensions, or additions onto existing
structures, altemative fill or flood proofing measures may be permitted only by
variance approval; (ARM 36.15.702(1)(a))
21. Manufactured Home Anchors For new placement, substantial improvement
or replacement of manufactured homes for residential or nonresidential use
including additions, the chassis must be secure and must resist flotation,
collapse or lateral movement by anchoring with anchoring components capable
of carrying a force of 4,800 pounds and as follows:
1. For manufactured homes less than fifty (50) feet long, over - the -top ties to
ground anchors are required at each of the four (4) corners of the home, with
two additional ties per side at intermediate locations; or
2. For manufactured homes more than fifty (50) feet long, frame ties to ground
anchors are required at each comer of the home with five (5) additional ties
per side at intermediate points; and
((CFR 60.3(b)(8)) CFR 60.3(cX6)))
22. Access Access for emergency vehicles is provided. For manufactured homes,
access for a manufactured home hauler is also provided.
10.3 RESIDENTIAL BUILDING, EXCEPTIONS OR ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
New construction, alterations, and substantial improvements of residential dwellings,
manufactured homes, including replacement of manufactured homes, must be
constructed such that:
1. Flood Proofing The Lowest Floor must be 2 (two) feet or more above the Base
Flood Elevation and cannot be wet or dry flood proofed; (ARM 36.15.701(3))
2. Enclosure Use for a crawlspace enclosure is limited to facilitating building
component access. The enclosure cannot be dry flood proofed. An attached
garage must meet the wet flood proofing requirements except for both the
required flood openings and limits on use but the attached garage floor must be
two (2) or more feet above the Base Flood Elevation; and
3. Recreation Vehicles Recreational vehicles on site for more than 180 days or
not ready for highway use must meet the requirements for manufactured homes
for residential use.
10.4 NON - RESIDENTIAL BUILDING, EXCEPTIONS OR ADDITIONAL
REQUIREMENTS New construction, alterations, and substantial improvements of non -
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residential including agricultural, commercial and industrial buildings must be
constructed such that:
1. Flood Proofing The Lowest Floor of the building must be elevated two (2) feet
above the Base Flood Elevation or adequately dry flood proofed according to this
Section; ((ARM 36.15.702(2) (44 CFR 60.3(c)(3)(ii) (44 CFR 60.3(c)(3) & (4)))
2. Enclosure Enclosures below the Lowest Floor on elevated buildings must be
wet flood proofed and the use must be limited to parking, access or storage or
dry flood proofed;
3. Manufactured homes Manufactured homes proposed for use as commercial or
industrial buildings cannot be dry flood proofed; and
4. Agricultural structures Agricultural structures not intended to be insurable,
used solely for agricultural purposes, having low flood damage potential, used
exclusively in connection with the production, harvesting, storage, drying, or
raising of agricultural commodities including raising of livestock, and not intended
for human habitation are exempt from the elevation requirement, dry or wet flood
proofing, but shall:
1. Be located on higher ground and as far from the channel as possible;
2. Offer minimal obstruction to flood flows;
3. Be adequately anchored to prevent flotation or collapse;
4. Where electrical, heating and plumbing systems are installed, meet the flood
proofing requirements in this Section; and
5. Meet the elevation or dry flood proofing requirements if the structure is an
animal confinement facility.
((ARM 36.15.602(9) (ARM 36.15.701(3)(e)) (ARM 36.15.702(2))
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SECTION 11. EMERGENCIES
11.1 General
1. Emergency repair and replacement of severely damaged artificial obstructions
and development in the Regulated Flood Hazard Area, including public
transportation facilities, public water and sewer facilities, flood control works, and
private projects are subject to the permitting requirements of these
regulations.(ARM 36.15.217)
2. The provisions of these regulations are not intended to affect other actions that
are necessary to safeguard life or structures during periods of emergency.
11.2 Emergency Notification and Application Requirements
1. The property owner and or the person responsible for taking emergency action
must notify the Flood Plain Administrator prior to initiating any emergency action
in a Regulated Flood Hazard Area normally requiring a Flood Plain permit. An
Emergency Notification Form must be submitted to the Flood Plain Administrator
within five (5) days of the action taken as a result of an emergency.
2. Unless otherwise specified by the Flood Plain Administrator, within 30 days of
initiating the emergency action, a person who has undertaken an emergency
action must submit a Flood Plain Permit Application that describes what action
has taken place during the emergency and describe any additional work that may
be required to bring the project in compliance with these regulations.
3. A person who has undertaken an emergency action may be required to modify or
remove the project in order to meet the permit requirements.
47 I Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
SECTION 12. VARIANCES
12.1 GENERAL - A variance from the minimum development standards of these
regulations may be allowed. An approved variance would permit construction in a
manner otherwise as required or prohibited by these regulations. ((44 CFR 59.1) (ARM
36.15.218))
12.2 VARIANCE APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
1. Prior to any consideration of a variance from any development standard in these
regulations, a completed Flood Plain Permit application and required supporting
material must be submitted.
2. Additionally, a completed Variance application specific to the variance request
including facts and information addressing the criteria in this section must be
submitted.
3. If the Flood Plain permit application and Variance application is deemed not
correct and complete, the Flood Plain Administrator shall notify the applicant of
deficiencies within a reasonable time not to exceed 30 days. Under no
circumstances should it be assumed that the variance is automatically granted.
12.3 NOTICE REQUIREMENTS FOR FLOOD PLAIN VARIANCE APPLICATION
Public Notice of the Flood Plain permit application and Variance application shall be
given pursuant to Section 8.2.
12.4 EVALUATION OF VARIANCE APPLICATION
1. A Flood Plain permit and Variance shall only be issued upon a determination that
the variance is the minimum allowance necessary, considering the flood hazard,
to afford relief from these regulations and provided all of the following criteria are
met:
1. There is a good and sufficient cause. Financial hardship is not a good and
sufficient cause; (44 CFR 60.6(a)(3))
2. Failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship to the
applicant; (44 CFR 60.3(a)(3)) & ARM 36.15.218(b))
3. Residential dwellings including basements and attached garages do not
have the lowest floor elevation below the Base Flood Elevation;
48 I Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
4. Any enclosure including a crawl space must meet the requirements of
Section 10.2.14, Wet Flood Proofing if the enclosure interior grade is at or
below the Base Flood Elevation;
5. Granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights to existing
buildings, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense,
create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict
with other existing local laws or ordinances; (44 CFR 60.6 (a)(3) & (ARM
36.15.218(a))
6. The proposed use is adequately flood proofed; (ARM 36.15.218(c))
7. The variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to
afford relief; (44 CFR 60.6(a)(4))
8. Reasonable alternative locations are not available; (MCA 76 -5- 406(3) &
ARM 36.15.218(d))
9. An encroachment that causes an increase to the Base Flood Elevation
that is beyond that allowed in these regulations cannot be permitted by a
variance but may only be allowed if an Alteration is approved pursuant to
Section 4; and (44 CFR 60.6(a)(1))
10. All other criteria for a Flood Plain permit besides the specific
development standard requested by variance are met.
2. An exception to the variance criteria may be allowed as follows:
1. If the variance is for new construction or substantial improvements on a lot
of one -half acres or less that is contiguous to and surrounded by lots with
existing structures constructed below the Base Flood Elevation, a variance
may be approved; and (44 CFR 60.6(a).
2. Historic Structures — variances may be issued for the repair or
rehabilitation of historic structures upon a determination that the proposed
repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure's continued
designation as a historic structure and the variance is the minimum relief
necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
The historic nature of the building must be designated as a preliminary or
historic structure by U.S. Secretary of Interior or an approved state or local
government historic preservation program. (44 CFR 60.6(a))
12.5 DECISION
1. The City Council shall:
49 Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
1. Evaluate the Flood Plain permit application and Variance application using
the criteria in this section, and the application requirements and minimum
development standards in Section 9 and 10;
2. Make findings, and approve, conditionally approve or deny a Flood Plain
permit and variance within 60 days of a complete application.
3. If approved, attach conditions to the approval of Flood Plain permit and
Variance including a project completion date and inspections during and
after construction.
4. Notify the applicant that the issuance of a Flood Plain permit and Variance
to construct a structure below the Base Flood Elevation may result in
increased premium rates for flood insurance and that flood insurance
premiums are determined by actuarial risk and will not be modified by the
granting of a variance. (44CFR 6O.6(a))
5. Submit to the Flood Plain Administrator a record of all actions involving a
Flood Plain permit and variance, including the findings and decision and
send a copy of each variance granted to DNRC.(44 CFR 6O.6(a)(6) &
MCA 76 -5 -405)
12.6 JUDICIAL REVIEW
Any person or persons aggrieved by the Flood Plain permit and variance decision may
appeal such decision in a court of competent jurisdiction.
50 Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
SECTION 13. ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS
13.1 GENERAL An administrative appeal may be brought before the City Council for
review of the Flood Plain Administrator's order, decision to grant, condition or deny a
flood plain permit or interpretation of the Regulated Flood Hazard Area boundary.
13.2 APPEALS REQUIREMENTS The following provisions apply to administrative
appeals:
1. An appeal shall include the basis of the appeal and supporting information
including specific findings and conclusions of the Flood Plain Administrator's
decision being appealed;
2. An appeal must be submitted by an applicant and /or anyone who may be
aggrieved by the Flood Plain Administrator's decision or order;
3. Appeals must be received within 30 days of the date of the decision or order of
the Flood Plain Administrator; and
4. Additional information specific to the appeal request may be requested.
13.3 NOTICE AND HEARING
1. Notice of the pending appeal and public hearing shall be provided pursuant to
Section 8.2. The Flood Plain Administrator may notify DNRC and FEMA of
pending appeals.
2. A public hearing on the appeal must be held within 30 days of the Notice unless
set otherwise.
13.4 DECISION
A judgment on an appeal shall be made within 30 days of the hearing unless set
otherwise. The decision may grant the permit, modify or deny the permit or remand the
application to the Flood Plain Administrator with instructions or directions. A decision on
an appeal of a permit cannot grant or issue a variance. A decision may support,
reverse or remand an order or determination of a boundary of the Regulated Flood
Hazard Area by the Flood Plain Administrator.
13.5 JUDICIAL REVIEW
Any person or persons aggrieved by the decision on an administrative appeal may
appeal such decision in a court of competent jurisdiction.
51 Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
SECTION 14. ENFORCEMENT
14.1 INVESTIGATION REQUEST An investigation to determine compliance with
these regulations for an artificial obstruction or nonconforming use within the Regulated
Flood Hazard Area may be made either on the initiative of the Flood Plain Administrator
or on the written request of three titleholders of land which may be affected by the
activity. The names and addresses of the persons requesting the investigation shall be
released if requested. (MCA 76 -5- 105)(2)
14.2 NOTICE TO ENTER AND INVESTIGATE LANDS OR WATERS The Flood Plain
Administrator may make reasonable entry upon any lands and waters for the purpose of
making an investigation, inspection or survey to verify compliance with these
regulations. (MCA 76 -5- 105(1))
1. The Flood Plain Administrator shall provide notice of entry by mail, electronic
mail, phone call, or personal delivery to the owner, owner's agent, lessee, or
lessee's agent whose lands will be entered.
2. If none of these persons can be found, the Flood Plain Administrator shall affix a
copy of the notice to one or more conspicuous places on the property.
3. If the owners do not respond, cannot be located or refuse entry to the Flood Plain
Administrator, the Flood Plain Administrator may only enter the property through
a Search Warrant.
14.3 NOTICE TO RESPOND AND ORDER TO TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTION When
the Flood Plain Administrator determines that a violation may have occurred, the Flood
Plain Administrator may issue written notice to the owner or an agent of the owner,
either personally or by certified mail. Such notice shall cite the regulatory offense and
include an order to take corrective action within a reasonable time or to respond by
requesting an administrative review by the Flood Plain Administrator.
14.4 ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW The order to take corrective action is final, unless
within five (5) working days or any granted extension, after the order is received, the
owner submits a written request for an administrative review by the Flood Plain
Administrator. A request for an administrative review does not stay the order.
14.5 APPEAL OF ADMINISTRATIVE DECISION Within ten (10) working days or any
granted extension of receipt of the Flood Plain Administrator's decision concluding the
administrative review, the property owner or owner's agent may appeal the decision
pursuant to Section 13.
14.6 FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH ORDER TO TAKE CORRECTIVE ACTION If the
owner fails to comply with the order for corrective action, remedies may include
administrative or legal actions, or penalties through court.
52 Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
14.7 OTHER REMEDIES This section does not prevent efforts to obtain voluntary
compliance through warning, conference, or any other appropriate means. Action
under this part shall not bar enforcement of these regulations by injunction or other
appropriate remedy.
53 Model Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
City of Laurel Draft
SECTION 15. PENALTIES
15.1 MISDEMEANOR Violation of the provisions of these regulations or failure to
comply with any of the requirements, including failure to obtain permit approval prior to
development in the Regulated Flood Hazard Area except for an emergency, shall
constitute a misdemeanor and may be treated as a public nuisance.
Any person who violates these regulations or fails to comply with any of its requirements
shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not more than $100 or imprisoned for not more
than 10 days or both. Each day's continuance of a violation shall be deemed a
separate and distinct offense. (MCA 76 -5 -110)
15.2 DECLARATION TO THE FEDERAL FLOOD INSURANCE ADMINISTRATOR
Upon finding of a violation and failure of the owner to take corrective action as ordered,
the Flood Plain Administrator may submit notice and request a 1316 Violation
Declaration to the Federal Insurance Administrator. The Federal Insurance
Administrator has the authority to deny new and renewal flood insurance for a structure
upon finding a valid violation declaration. (44 CFR 73.3)
The Flood Plain Administrator shall provide the Federal Insurance Administrator the
following:
1. The name(s) of the property owner(s) and address or legal description of the
property sufficient to confirm its identity and location;
2. A clear and unequivocal declaration that the property is in violation of a cited
State or local law, regulation or ordinance;
3. A clear statement that the public body making the declaration has authority to do
so and a citation to that authority;
4. Evidence that the property owner has been provided notice of the violation and
the prospective denial of insurance; and
5. A clear statement that the declaration is being submitted pursuant to section
1316 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended.
54 Modei Ordinance Aug 20,2012 to July 30, 2013.doc
°- --
UFederal Emergency Management Agency
7o ' £4 Washington, D.C. 20472
�lAND sv,-- August 24, 2015
CERTIFIED MAIL IN REPLY REFER TO:
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED Case No.: 15-08-1029P
Community Name: City of Laurel,MT
The Honorable Mark Mace Community No.: 300086 '
Mayor,City of Laurel Effective Date of
803 West 4th Street This Revision: January 8,2016
Laurel,MT 59044 1
Dear Mayor Mace:
The Flood Insurance Study Report and Flood Insurance Rate Map for your community have been revised by this
Letter of Map Revision(LOMR). Please use the enclosed annotated map panel(s)revised by this LOMR for
floodplain management purposes and for all flood insurance policies and renewals issued in your community.
Additional documents are enclosed that provide information regarding this LOMR. Please see the List of Enclosures
below to determine which documents are included. Other attachments specific to this request may be included as
referenced in the Determination Document. If you have any general questions regarding floodplain management
regulations for your community or the National Flood Insurance Program(NFIP),please contact the Consultation
Coordination Officer for your community. If you have any technical questions regarding this LOMR,please contact
the Director,Mitigation Division of the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management
Agency(FEMA)in Denver,Colorado,at(303)235-4830,or the FEMA Map Information eXchange toll free at
1-877-336-2627(1-877-FEMA MAP). Additional information about the NFIP is available on our Web site at
http://www.fema.gov/nfip.
Sincerely,
Luis Rodriguez,P.E.,Chief
Engineering Management Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration
List of Enclosures:
Letter of Map Revision Determination Document
Annotated Flood Insurance Rate Map
Annotated Flood Insurance Study Report
cc: Ms.Heidi Jensen Mr.Jonathan Weaver,P.E.,CFM
Chief Administrative Officer Project Manager
City of Laurel Great Western Engineering,Inc.
Ms.Monica Plecker
Planner and Floodplain Administrator
City of Laurel
Mr. Stephen E. Story,P.E.,CFM
State Floodplain Engineer
Water Resources Department
Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation
Page 1 of 4 Issue Date: August 24,2015 Effective Date: January 8,2016 Case No.: 15-08-1029P LOMR-APP
2 915 Federal Emergency Management Agency
Washington, D.C. 20472
9ND Si,'
,LETTER OF MAP REVISION
DETERMINATION DOCUMENT
COMMUNITY AND REVISION INFORMATION PROJECT DESCRIPTION BASIS OF REQUEST
City of Laurel BRIDGE FLOODWAY
Yellowstone County HYDRAULIC ANALYSIS
Montana UPDATED TOPOGRAPHIC DATA
COMMUNITY
COMMUNITY NO.: 300086
IDENTIFIER City of Laurel Riverside Park Bank Stabilization APPROXIMATE LATITUDE AND LONGITUDE: 45.652,-108.762
SOURCE: USGS QUADRANGLE DATUM: NAD 83
ANNOTATED MAPPING ENCLOSURES ANNOTATED STUDY ENCLOSURES
TYPE: FIRM* NO.: 30111C1420E DATE: November 6,2013 DATE OF EFFECTIVE FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY: November 06,2013
PROFILE(S): 94P
FLOODWAY DATA TABLE: 6
Enclosures reflect changes to flooding sources affected by this revision.
*FIRM-Flood Insurance Rate Map;**FBFM-Flood Boundary and Floodway Map;***FHBM-Flood Hazard Boundary Map
FLOODING SOURCE AND REVISED REACH
Yellowstone River-from approximately 1,660 feet downstream to approximately 4,180 feet upstream of Highway 212/313
SUMMARY OF REVISIONS
Flooding Source Effective Flooding Revised Flooding Increases Decreases
Yellowstone River Zone AE Zone AE YES YES
Zone X(shaded) Zone X(shaded) YES YES
BFEs BFEs YES YES
Floodway Floodway YES YES
*BFEs-Base Flood Elevations
DETERMINATION
This document provides the determination from the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA)
regarding a request for a Letter of Map Revision(LOMR)for the area described above. Using the information submitted,we have determined that
a revision to the flood hazards depicted in the Flood Insurance Study(FIS)report or National Flood Insurance Program(NFIP)map is warranted.
This document revises the effective NFIP map,as indicated in the attached documentation. Please use the enclosed annotated map panels
revised by this LOMR for floodplain management purposes and for all flood insurance policies and renewals in your community.
This determination is based on the flood data presently available. The enclosed documents provide additional information regarding this determination. If you have
any questions about this document,please contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange toll free at 1-877-336-2627(1-877-FEMA MAP)or by letter addressed to the
LOMC Clearinghouse,847 South Pickett Street,Alexandria,VA 22304. Additional Information about the NFIP is available on our Web site at http://www.fema.gov/nflp.
Luis Rodriguez,P.E.,Chief
Engineering Management Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration 15-08-1029P 102-I-A-C
, Page 2 of 4 Issue Date: August 24,2015 Effective Date: January 8,2016 Case No.: 15-08-1029P LOMR-APP
9.....0"—" ,,.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
s(......
Washington, D.C. 20472
LETTER OF MAP.REVISION .
DETERMINATION DOCUMENT (CONTINUED)
COMMUNITY INFORMATION
APPLICABLE NFIP REGULATIONS/COMMUNITY OBLIGATION
We have made this determination pursuant to Section 206 of the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973(P.L.93-234)and in accordance
with the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968,as amended(Title XIII of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968,P.L.90-448),
42 U.S.C.4001-4128,and 44 CFR Part 65. Pursuant to Section 1361 of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968,as amended,
communities participating in the NFIP are required to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations that meet or exceed NFIP
criteria. These criteria,including adoption of the FIS report and FIRM,and the modifications made by this LOMR,are the minimum
requirements for continued NFIP participation and do not supersede more stringent State/Commonwealth or local requirements to which
the regulations apply.
We provide the floodway designation to your community as a tool to regulate floodplain development. Therefore,the floodway revision
we have described in this letter,while acceptable to us,must also be acceptable to your community and adopted by appropriate
community action,as specified in Paragraph 60.3(d)of the NFIP regulations.
NFIP regulations Subparagraph 60.3(b)(7)requires communities to ensure that the flood-carrying capacity within the altered or relocated
portion of any watercourse is maintained. This provision is incorporated into your community's existing floodplain management
ordinances;therefore,responsibility for maintenance of the altered or relocated watercourse,including any related appurtenances such as
bridges,culverts,and other drainage structures,rests with your community. We may request that your community submit a description
and schedule of maintenance activities necessary to ensure this requirement.
COMMUNITY REMINDERS
We based this determination on the 1-percent-annual-chance flood discharges computed in the FIS for your community without
considering subsequent changes in watershed characteristics that could increase flood discharges. Future development of projects
upstream could cause increased flood discharges,which could cause increased flood hazards. A comprehensive restudy of your
community's flood hazards would consider the cumulative effects of development on flood discharges subsequent to the publication of
the FIS report for your community and could,therefore,establish greater flood hazards in this area.
Your community must regulate all proposed floodplain development and ensure that any permits required by Federal or
State/Commonwealth law have been obtained. State/Commonwealth or community officials,based on knowledge of local conditions and
in the interest of safety,may set higher standards for construction or may limit development in floodplain areas. If your
State/Commonwealth or community has adopted more restrictive or comprehensive floodplain management criteria,those criteria take
precedence over the minimum NFIP requirements.
We will not print and distribute this LOMR to primary users,such as local insurance agents or mortgage lenders;instead,the community
will serve as a repository for the new data. We encourage you to disseminate the information in this LOMR by preparing a news release
for publication in your community's newspaper that describes the revision and explains how your community will provide the data and
help interpret the NFIP maps. In that way,interested persons,such as property owners,insurance agents,and mortgage lenders,can
benefit from the information.
This determination is based on the flood data presently available. The enclosed documents provide additional information regarding this determination. If you have
any questions about this document,please contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange toll free at 1-877-336-2627(1-877-FEMA MAP)or by letter addressed to the
LOMC Clearinghouse,847 South Pickett Street,Alexandria,VA 22304. Additional Information about the NFIP is available on our Web site at http://www.fema.gov/nflp.
Luis Rodriguez,P.E.,Chief
Engineering Management Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration 15-08-1029P 102-I-A-C
. Page 3 of 4 Issue Date: August 24,2015 Effective Date: January 8,2016 Case No.: 15-08-1029P LOMR-APP
' Federal Emergency Management Agency
U
Washington, D.C. 20472
rrDs
, LETTER OF MAP REVISION
DETERMINATION DOCUMENT (CONTINUED)
We have designated a Consultation Coordination Officer(CCO)to assist your community. The CCO will be the primary liaison between
your community and FEMA. For information regarding your CCO,please contact:
Ms.Jeanine D.Petterson
Director,Mitigation Division
Federal Emergency Management Agency,Region VIII
Denver Federal Center,Building 710
P.O.Box 25267
Denver,CO 80225-0267
(303)235-4830
STATUS OF THE COMMUNITY NFIP MAPS
We will not physically revise and republish the FIRM and FIS report for your community to reflect the modifications made by this
LOMR at this time. When changes to the previously cited FIRM panel(s)and FIS report warrant physical revision and republication in
the future,we will incorporate the modifications made by this LOMR at that time.
This determination is based on the flood data presently available. The enclosed documents provide additional information regarding this determination. If you have
any questions about this document,please contact the FEMA Map Information exchange toll free at 1-87.7-336-2627(1-877-FEMA MAP)or by letter addressed to the
LOMC Clearinghouse,847 South Pickett Street,Alexandria,VA 22304. Additional Information about the NFIP is available on our Web site at http://www.fema.gov/nfip.
Luis Rodriguez,P.E.,Chief
Engineering Management Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration 15-08-1029P 102-I-A-C
Page 4 of 4 Issue Date: August 24,2015 Effective Date: January 8,2016 Case No.: 15-08-1029P LOMR-APP
QiSt;'.T f
�` Federal Emergency Management Agency
4.
c...
Washington, D.C. 20472
41NDSV.('-
,
s, LETTER OF MAP REVISION .
DETERMINATION DOCUMENT (CONTINUED)
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF REVISION
A notice of changes will be published in the Federal Register. This information also will be published in your local newspaper on or
about the dates listed below and through FEMA's Flood Hazard Mapping Web site at
https://www.floodmaps.fema.gov/fhm/Scripts/bfe_main.asp.
LOCAL NEWSPAPER Name: The Laurel Outlook
Dates: September 3,2015 and September 10,2015
Within 90 days of the second publication in the local newspaper,a citizen may request that we reconsider this determination. Any request
for reconsideration must be based on scientific or technical data. Therefore,this letter will be effective only after the 90-day appeal
period has elapsed and we have resolved any appeals that we receive during this appeal period. Until this LOMR is effective,the revised
flood hazard determination information presented in this LOMR may be changed.
This determination is based on the flood data presently available. The enclosed documents provide additional information regarding this determination. If you have
any questions about this document,please contact the FEMA Map Information eXchange toll free at 1-877-336-2627(1-877-FEMA MAP)or by letter addressed to the
LOMC Clearinghouse,847 South Pickett Street,Alexandria,VA 22304. Additional Information about the NFIP is available on our Web site at http://www.fema.gov/nfip.
'.. ..
Luis Rodriguez,P.E.,Chief
Engineering Management Branch
Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration 15-08-1029P 102-I-A-C
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