Subject:
Title
Resolution for the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board to approve local technical amendments to the Florida Building Code, pertaining to floodplain management and flood damage prevention. (Regular Agenda Item that is Companion to Item No. 7)
label
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Approval of a resolution for the Pinellas County Construction Licensing Board to approve local technical amendments to the Florida Building Code, pertaining to floodplain management and flood damage prevention.
Amendments to the Florida Building Code include the following:
• Definitions revised to be consistent with flood ordinance definitions.
• Removes exemption for foundations in Coastal A Zones for residential structures.
• Requires operation, inspection, and maintenance plan for dry floodproofed commercial buildings.
• Requires a compliance affidavit indicating that the as-built construction at the final inspection is compliant.
• Requires additions to match the existing structure lowest floor elevation at a minimum.
Body
Strategic Plan:
Ensure Public Health, Safety, and Welfare
2.1 Provide planning, coordination, prevention, and protective services to ensure a safe and secure community
2.5 Enhance pedestrian and bicycle safety
Practice Superior Environmental Stewardship
3.3 Protect and improve the quality of our water, air, and other natural resources
3.5 Foster a sustainable and resilient community that is prepared for sea level rise and a changing climate
Foster Continual Economic Growth and Vitality
4.2 Invest in communities that need the most
4.3 Catalyze redevelopment through planning and regulatory programs
Summary:
Summary
The County currently manages and regulates activities and development in its floodplains through provisions in both Chapter 158 and in the Florida Building Code (FBC). These amendments to the FBC respond to and reflect the changing conditions of the County. The purpose of these proposed amendments is to establish the necessary regulatory framework to ensure that the FBC is aligned with the County’s floodplain management regulations and consistent with the intent of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Community Rating System (CRS). Revisions to the Florida Building Code are intended to protect people and property from flooding by adopting newest flood hazard data and ensuring consistency with State and Federal Floodplain Best Management Practices. The companion Legistar No. 21-1903A is an Ordinance amending Part III of the Pinellas County Code, Land Development Code, Chapter 158 Floodplain Management.
Body
Background Information:
The County currently manages and regulates activities and development in its floodplains through provisions in both Chapter 158 and in the Florida Building Code (FBC). The proposed amendments were prepared based on coordination with the County’s Floodplain Administrator and multiple County departments, as well as Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the CRS Task Force, and the Office of the State Floodplain Management Office (SFMO). Drafts of the amendments were also provided to the State for review.
Chapter 158 Floodplain Management, of the Pinellas County Land Development Code is intended to protect people and minimize property damage from flooding; encourage appropriate construction practices to minimize future damage; and protect water supply, sewer treatment, and natural drainage. The Code is intended to reduce financial burdens and displacement of residents in the future. This is achieved through review of all activities proposed within identified floodplains and by the issuance of permits for those activities that comply with the objectives of Chapter 158.
Fiscal Impact:
N/A
Staff Member Responsible:
Kelli Hammer Levy, Director, Public Works
Partners:
N/A
Attachments:
Resolution No. 21-