47.5 MB - The Whole Building Design Guide

2.1.3.2 Summary of the NFIP MinimumRequirementsThe performance requirements of the NFIP are set forth in Federalregulation 44 CFR Part 60. The requirements apply to alldevelopment, which the NFIP broadly defines to include buildingsand structures, site work, roads and bridges, and other activities.Buildings must be designed and constructed to resist flooddamage, which is primarily achieved through elevation (or floodproofing).Additional specific requirements apply to existingdevelopment, especially existing buildings. Existing buildings thatare proposed for substantial improvement, including restorationfollowing substantial damage, are subject to the regulations.Although the NFIP regulations primarily focus on how to buildstructures, one of the long-term objectives of the program is toguide development to less hazardous locations. Preparing floodhazard maps and making the information available to the publicis fundamental in satisfying that objective. With that information,people can make informed decisions about where to build, how touse site design to minimize exposure to flooding, and how to designbuildings that will resist flood damage.The NFIP’s broad performance requirements for site work inflood hazard areas are as follows:m Building sites shall be reasonably safe from flooding.m Adequate site drainage shall be provided to reduce exposureto flooding.m New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall bedesigned to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwatersinto the systems and discharges from the systems intofloodwaters.m Development in floodways shall be prohibited, unlessengineering analyses show that there will be no increases inflood levels.MAKING CRITICAL FACILITIES SAFE FROM Flooding2-31