Chapter 4.11 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT

The Legislature of the State of California has in Government Code Sections 65302, 65560, and 65800 conferred upon local government units authority to adopt regulations designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizenry. Therefore, the City Council of the City of Newman does hereby adopt the following floodplain management regulations. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 1.1, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.020 Findings of fact.

A. The flood hazard areas of the City of Newman are subject to periodic inundation which results in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base, all of which adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare.

B. These flood losses are caused by uses that are inadequately elevated, floodproofed, or protected from flood damage. The cumulative effect of obstructions in areas of special flood hazard which increase flood heights and velocities also contributes to the flood loss. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 1.2, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.030 Statement of purpose.

It is the purpose of this chapter to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions in specific areas by provisions designed to:

A. Protect human life and health;

B. Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;

C. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;

D. Minimize prolonged business interruptions;

E. Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains; electric, telephone and sewer lines; and streets and bridges located in areas of special flood hazard;

F. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of areas of special flood hazard so as to minimize future blighted areas caused by flood damage;

G. Ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is in an area of special flood hazard; and

H. Ensure that those who occupy the areas of special flood hazard assume responsibility for their actions. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 1.3, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.040 Methods of reducing flood losses.

In order to accomplish its purposes, this chapter includes methods and provisions to:

A. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water or erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or flood heights or velocities;

B. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;

C. Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers, which help accommodate or channel flood waters;

D. Control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damage; and

E. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert flood waters or which may increase flood hazards in other areas. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 1.4, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

Article II. Definitions

4.11.050 Definitions.

Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this chapter shall be interpreted so as to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this chapter its most reasonable application.

“Accessory use” means a use which is incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the parcel of land on which it is located. For floodplain management purposes, the term includes only accessory structures used for parking and storage.

“Alluvial fan” means a geomorphologic feature characterized by a cone- or fan-shaped deposit of boulders, gravel, and fine sediments that have been eroded from mountain slopes, transported by flood flows, and then deposited on the valley floors, and which is subject to flash flooding, high velocity flows, debris flows, erosion, sediment movement and deposition, and channel migration.

“Apex” means the point of highest elevation on an alluvial fan, which on undisturbed fans is generally the point where the major stream that formed the fan emerges from the mountain front.

“Appeal” means a request for a review of the Floodplain Administrator’s interpretation of any provision of this chapter.

“Area of shallow flooding” means a designated AO or AH Zone on the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). The base flood depths range from one to three feet; a clearly defined channel does not exist; the path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate; and velocity flow may be evident. Such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet flow.

Area of Special Flood Hazard. See “special flood hazard area (SFHA).”

“Base flood” means a flood which has a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year (also called the “100-year flood”). “Base flood” is the term used throughout this chapter.

“Basement” means any area of the building having its floor subgrade – i.e., below ground level – on all sides.

Building. See “structure.”

“Development” means any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to buildings or other structures, temporary structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials, flood control projects, and other land-disturbing activities.

“Encroachment” means the advance or infringement of uses, plant growth, fill, excavation, buildings, permanent structures or development into a floodplain which may impede or alter the flow capacity of a floodplain.

“Existing manufactured home park or subdivision” means 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 (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed before September 29, 1978.

“Expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision” means the preparation of additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads).

“Flood,” “flooding,” or “flood water” means:

1. A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from the overflow of inland or tidal waters; the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source; and/or mudslides (i.e., mudflows); and

2. The condition resulting from flood-related erosion.

“Flood Boundary and Floodway Map (FBFM)” means the official map on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency or Federal Insurance Administration has delineated both the areas of special flood hazard and the floodway.

“Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM)” means the official map on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency or Federal Insurance Administration has delineated the areas of flood hazards.

“Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)” means the official map on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency or Federal Insurance Administration has delineated both the areas of special flood hazard and the risk premium zones applicable to the community.

“Flood Insurance Study” means the official report provided by the Federal Insurance Administration that includes flood profiles, the Flood Insurance Rate Map, the Flood Boundary and Floodway Map, and the water surface elevation of the base flood.

“Floodplain” or “flood-prone area” means any land area susceptible to being inundated by water from any source. See “flooding.”

“Floodplain Administrator” is the individual appointed to administer and enforce the floodplain management regulations.

“Floodplain management” means the operation of an overall program of corrective and preventive measures for reducing flood damage and preserving and enhancing, where possible, natural resources in the floodplain, including but not limited to emergency preparedness plans, flood control works, floodplain management regulations, and open space plans.

“Floodplain management regulations” means this chapter and other zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances (such as grading and erosion control) and other application of police power which control development in flood-prone areas. This term describes Federal, State or local regulations in any combination thereof which provide standards for preventing and reducing flood loss and damage.

“Floodproofing” means any combination of structural and nonstructural additions, changes, or adjustments to structures which reduce or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities, structures, and their contents. (Refer to FEMA Technical Bulletins TB 1, TB 3, and TB 7 for guidelines on dry and wet floodproofing.)

“Floodway” means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot. Also referred to as “regulatory floodway.”

“Floodway fringe” is that area of the floodplain on either side of the “regulatory floodway” where encroachment may be permitted when it is demonstrated that no rise in the BFE will occur.

“Fraud and victimization” as related to Article VI, Variance Procedure, of this chapter means that the variance granted must not cause fraud on or victimization of the public. In examining this requirement, the Newman City Council will consider the fact that every newly constructed building adds to government responsibilities and remains a part of the community for 50 to 100 years. Buildings that are permitted to be constructed below the base flood elevation are subject during all those years to increased risk of damage from floods, while future owners of the property and the community as a whole are subject to all the costs, inconvenience, danger, and suffering that those increased flood damages bring. In addition, future owners may purchase the property, unaware that it is subject to potential flood damage, and can be insured only at very high flood insurance rates.

“Functionally dependent use” means a use which cannot perform its intended purpose unless it is located or carried out in close proximity to water. The term includes only docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, and ship building and ship repair facilities, and does not include long-term storage or related manufacturing facilities.

“Governing body” is the local governing unit, i.e., county or municipality, that is empowered to adopt and implement regulations to provide for the public health, safety and general welfare of its citizenry.

“Hardship” as related to Article VI, Variance Procedure, of this chapter means the exceptional hardship that would result from a failure to grant the requested variance. The City Council requires that the variance be exceptional, unusual, and peculiar to the property involved. Mere economic or financial hardship alone is not exceptional. Inconvenience, aesthetic considerations, physical handicaps, personal preferences, or the disapproval of one’s neighbors likewise cannot, as a rule, qualify as an exceptional hardship. All of these problems can be resolved through other means without granting a variance, even if the alternative is more expensive or requires the property owner to build elsewhere or put the parcel to a different use than originally intended.

“Highest adjacent grade” means the highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.

“Historic structure” means any structure that is:

1. Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing maintained by the Department of the Interior) or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the National Register;

2. Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district;

3. Individually listed on a State inventory of historic places in states with historic preservation programs which have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior; or

4. Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities with historic preservation programs that have been certified either by an approved State program as determined by the Secretary of the Interior or directly by the Secretary of the Interior in states without approved programs.

“Levee” means a manmade structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, control or divert the flow of water so as to provide protection from temporary flooding.

“Levee system” means a flood protection system which consists of a levee, or levees, and associated structures, such as closure and drainage devices, which are constructed and operated in accord with sound engineering practices.

“Lowest floor” means the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area, including basement (see “basement”).

1. An unfinished or flood-resistant enclosure below the lowest floor that is usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage in an area other than a basement area is not considered a building’s lowest floor provided it conforms to applicable nonelevation design requirements, including, but not limited to:

a. The wet floodproofing standard in NCC 4.11.170(C)(3);

b. The anchoring standards in NCC 4.11.170(A);

c. The construction materials and methods standards in NCC 4.11.170(B); and

d. The standards for utilities in NCC 4.11.180.

2. For residential structures, all subgrade enclosed areas are prohibited as they are considered to be basements (see “basement”). This prohibition includes below-grade garages and storage areas.

“Manufactured home” means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The term “manufactured home” does not include a recreational vehicle.

“Manufactured home park or subdivision” means a parcel (or contiguous parcels) of land divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.

“Market value” means the price at which a property will change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, neither party being under compulsion to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts. As used in these regulations, the term refers to the market value of buildings and structures, excluding the land and other improvements on the parcel. Market value may be established by one of the following methods:

1. Actual cash value (replacement cost depreciated for age and quality of construction);

2. Tax assessment value adjusted to approximate market value by a factor provided by the property appraiser; or

3. A qualified independent appraiser.

“Mean sea level” means, for purposes of the National Flood Insurance Program, the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 or other datum, to which base flood elevations shown on a community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map are referenced.

“New construction,” for floodplain management purposes, means structures for which the “start of construction” commenced on or after September 29, 1978, and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.

“New manufactured home park or subdivision” means 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 (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets, and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) is completed on or after September 29, 1978.

“Obstruction” includes, but is not limited to, any dam, wall, wharf, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment, protection, excavation, channelization, bridge, conduit, culvert, building, wire, fence, rock, gravel, refuse, fill, structure, vegetation or other material in, along, across or projecting into any watercourse which may alter, impede, retard or change the direction and/or velocity of the flow of water, or due to its location, its propensity to snare or collect debris carried by the flow of water, or its likelihood of being carried downstream.

One-Hundred-Year Flood or 100-Year Flood. See “base flood.”

“Public safety and nuisance” as related to Article VI, Variance Procedure, of this chapter means that the granting of a variance must not result in anything which is injurious to safety or health of an entire community or neighborhood, or any considerable number of persons, or unlawfully obstructs the free passage or use, in the customary manner, of any navigable lake or river, bay, stream, canal, or basin.

“Recreational vehicle” means a vehicle which is:

1. Built on a single chassis;

2. Four hundred square feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection;

3. Designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light-duty truck; and

4. Designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use.

“Regulatory floodway” means the channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot.

“Remedy a violation” means to bring the structure or other development into compliance with State or local floodplain management regulations, or, if this is not possible, to reduce the impacts of its noncompliance. Ways that impacts may be reduced include protecting the structure or other affected development from flood damages, implementing the enforcement provisions of the ordinance or otherwise deterring future similar violations, or reducing State or Federal financial exposure with regard to the structure or other development.

“Riverine” means relating to, formed by, or resembling a river (including tributaries), stream, brook, etc.

Sheet Flow Area. See “area of shallow flooding.”

“Special flood hazard area (SFHA)” means an area in the floodplain subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year. It is shown on an FHBM or FIRM as Zone A, AO, A1 – A30, AE, A99, or AH.

“Start of construction” includes substantial improvement and other proposed new development and means the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other improvement was within 180 days from the date of the permit. The “actual start” means either the first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of slabs or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading, and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the “actual start of construction” means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.

“Structure” means a walled and roofed building that is principally above ground; this includes a gas or liquid storage tank or a manufactured home.

“Substantial damage” means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.

“Substantial improvement” means any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other proposed new development of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the start of construction of the improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred substantial damage, regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:

1. Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of State or local health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified by the local code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions; or

2. Any alteration of an historic structure; provided, that the alteration will not preclude the structure’s continued designation as an historic structure.

“Variance” means a grant of relief from the requirements of this chapter which permits construction in a manner that would otherwise be prohibited by this chapter.

“Violation” means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with this chapter. A structure or other development without the elevation certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in this chapter is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.

“Water surface elevation” means the height, in relation to the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (or other datum, where specified), of floods of various magnitudes and frequencies in the floodplains of coastal or riverine areas.

“Watercourse” means a lake, river, creek, stream, wash, arroyo, channel or other topographic feature on or over which waters flow at least periodically. “Watercourse” includes specifically designated areas in which substantial flood damage may occur. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 1, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 2.0, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

Article III. General Provisions

4.11.060 Lands to which this chapter applies.

This chapter shall apply to all areas of special flood hazard within the jurisdiction of the City of Newman. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.1, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.070 Basis for establishing the areas of special flood hazard.

The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Insurance Administration (FIA) or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the initial Flood Insurance Study (FIS) dated March 1, 1978, and accompanying initial Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) dated September 29, 1978, and all subsequent amendments and/or revisions, are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this chapter. This FIS and attendant mapping is the minimum area of applicability of this chapter and may be supplemented by studies for other areas which allow implementation of this chapter and which are recommended to the City of Newman by the Floodplain Administrator. The study, FIRMs and FBFMs are on file at 1162 Main Street, City Hall. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 2, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.2, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.080 Compliance.

No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed, located, extended, converted, or altered without full compliance with the terms of this chapter and other applicable regulations. Violation of the requirements (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions) shall constitute a misdemeanor. Nothing herein shall prevent the City of Newman from taking such lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.3, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.090 Abrogation and greater restrictions.

This chapter is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this chapter and another ordinance, easement, covenant, or deed restriction conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the more stringent restrictions shall prevail. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.4, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.100 Interpretation.

In the interpretation and application of this chapter, all provisions shall be:

A. Considered as minimum requirements;

B. Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and

C. Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under State statutes. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.5, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.110 Warning and disclaimer of liability.

The degree of flood protection required by this chapter is considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger floods can and will occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be increased by manmade or natural causes. This chapter does not imply that land outside the areas of special flood hazard or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. This chapter shall not create liability on the part of the City of Newman, any officer or employee thereof, the State of California, the Federal Insurance Administration, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency for any flood damages that result from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.6, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.120 Severability.

This chapter and the various parts thereof are hereby declared to be severable. Should any section of this chapter be declared by the courts to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the chapter as a whole, or any portion thereof other than the section so declared to be unconstitutional or invalid. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 3.7, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

Article IV. Administration

4.11.130 Establishment of development permit.

A development permit shall be obtained before any construction or other development begins within any area of special flood hazard established in NCC 4.11.070. Application for a development permit shall be made on forms furnished by the Floodplain Administrator and may include, but not be limited to: plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevation of the area in question; existing or proposed structures, fill, storage of materials, and drainage facilities; and the location of the foregoing. Specifically, the following information is required:

A. Site plan, including but not limited to:

1. For all proposed structures, spot ground elevations at building corners and 20-foot or smaller intervals along the foundation footprint, or one-foot contour elevations throughout the building site; and

2. Proposed locations of water supply, sanitary sewer, and utilities; and

3. If available, the base flood elevation from the Flood Insurance Study and/or Flood Insurance Rate Map; and

4. If applicable, the location of the regulatory floodway; and

B. Foundation design detail, including but not limited to:

1. Proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level of the lowest floor (including basement) of all structures; and

2. For a crawlspace foundation, location and total net area of foundation openings as required in NCC 4.11.170(C)(3) and FEMA Technical Bulletins TB 1 and TB 7; and

3. For foundations placed on fill, the location and height of fill, and compaction requirements (compacted to 95 percent using the Standard Proctor Test method); and

C. Proposed elevation in relation to mean sea level to which any nonresidential structure will be floodproofed, as required in NCC 4.11.170(C)(2) and FEMA Technical Bulletin TB 3; and

D. All appropriate certifications listed in NCC 4.11.150(D); and

E. Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of proposed development.

F. Validity of Permit. The issuance of a permit for floodplain development under these regulations or the building codes shall not be construed to be a permit for, or approval of, any violation of these regulations, the building code, or any other ordinance of the community. The issuance of a permit for floodplain development based on submitted documents and information shall not prevent the Floodplain Administrator from requiring the correction of errors and omissions. The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to prevent occupancy or use of a structure or site which is in violation of these regulations.

G. Other Permits Required. The applicant shall obtain all other required State and Federal permits prior to initiating work authorized by these regulations and shall provide documentation of such permits to the Floodplain Administrator. Such permits include but are not limited to:

1. California Coastal Commission or certified local coastal program, if applicable, for activities subject to the coastal development permit requirements and policies of the California Coastal Act (Public Resources Code, Division 20).

2. California State Water Resources Control Board for activities that affect wetlands and alter surface water flows, in conjunction with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.

H. Expiration. A permit for floodplain development shall become invalid when the proposed development is not commenced within 180 days after its issuance, or when the work authorized is suspended or abandoned for a period of 180 days after the work commences. Extensions shall be requested in writing and justifiable cause demonstrated. The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to grant, in writing, one or more extensions of time, for periods not more than 180 days each unless FEMA has issued notification of revision to the Flood Insurance Rate Study and Flood Insurance Rate Maps that alter the flood hazard area or floodway boundaries, flood zones, or base flood elevations, in which case the permit is invalid.

I. Suspension or Revocation. The Floodplain Administrator is authorized to suspend or revoke a permit for floodplain development issued under these regulations wherever the permit is issued in error or on the basis of incorrect, inaccurate or incomplete information, or in violation of these regulations or any ordinance or code of this community. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 3, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 4.1, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.140 Designation of the Floodplain Administrator.

The City Manager or designee is hereby appointed to administer, implement, and enforce this chapter by granting or denying development permits in accord with its provisions. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 4.2, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.150 Duties and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator.

A. Permit Review. Review all development permits to determine that:

1. Permit requirements of this chapter have been satisfied;

2. All other required State and Federal permits have been obtained;

3. The site is reasonably safe from flooding; and

4. Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses have been submitted to show that the proposed development does not adversely affect the carrying capacity of areas where base flood elevations have been determined but a floodway has not been designated. For purposes of this chapter, “adversely affects” means that the cumulative effect of the proposed development when combined with all other existing and anticipated development will increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point.

5. Inspections, in General. Development for which a permit for floodplain development is required shall be subject to inspection. Approval as a result of an inspection shall not be construed to be an approval of a violation of the provisions of these regulations or the building code. Inspections presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of these regulations or the building code or other ordinances shall not be valid.

a. Inspections of Development Other Than Buildings and Structures. The Floodplain Administrator shall make or cause to be made inspections of all development other than buildings and structures that is authorized by issuance of a permit for floodplain development under these regulations. The Floodplain Administrator shall inspect flood hazard areas from time to time to determine when development is undertaken without issuance of a permit.

b. Inspections of Manufactured Homes Installations. The Floodplain Administrator shall make or cause to be made inspections of installation and replacement of manufactured homes in flood hazard areas authorized by issuance of a permit for floodplain development under these regulations. Upon installation of a manufactured home and receipt of the elevation certification required in NCC 4.11.200 the Floodplain Administrator shall inspect the installation or have the installation inspected.

c. Inspections of Buildings and Structures. The Building Official shall make or cause to be made, inspections for buildings and structures in flood hazard areas authorized by permit, in accordance with the building code:

i. Lowest Floor Elevation. Upon placement of the lowest floor, including the basement, and prior to further vertical construction, certification of the elevation required in the building code shall be prepared by a licensed land surveyor or registered civil engineer and submitted to the Building Official.

ii. Final Inspection. Prior to the final inspection, certification of the elevation required in the building code shall be prepared by a licensed land surveyor or registered civil engineer and submitted to the Building Official.

B. Review, Use and Development of Other Base Flood Data.

1. Where flood hazard areas are delineated on the FIRM and base flood elevation data have not been provided, the Floodplain Administrator is authorized to require one of the following:

a. Require the applicant to include base flood elevation data prepared by a qualified professional engineer in accordance with currently accepted engineering practices. Such analyses shall be performed and sealed by a qualified professional engineer. Studies, analyses and computations shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow review and approval by the Floodplain Administrator. The accuracy of data submitted for such determination shall be the responsibility of the applicant.

b. Obtain, review, and provide to applicants base flood elevation and floodway data available from a Federal or State agency or other source or require the applicant to obtain and use base flood elevation and floodway data available from a Federal or State agency or other source.

c. Where base flood elevation and floodway data are not available from another source, where the available data are deemed by the Floodplain Administrator to not reasonably reflect flooding conditions, or where the available data are known to be scientifically or technically incorrect or otherwise inadequate:

i. Require the applicant to include base flood elevation data in accordance with subsection (B)(1)(a) of this section; or

ii. Specify that the base flood elevation is two feet above the highest adjacent grade at the location of the development, provided there is no evidence indicating flood depths have been or may be greater than two feet.

d. Where the base flood elevation data are to be used to support a request for a letter of map change from FEMA, advise the applicant that the analyses shall be prepared by a qualified professional engineer in a format required by FEMA, and that it shall be the responsibility of the applicant to satisfy the submittal requirements and pay the processing fees.

C. Notification of Other Agencies.

1. Alteration or Relocation of a Watercourse.

a. Notify adjacent communities and the California Department of Water Resources prior to alteration or relocation;

b. Submit evidence of such notification to the Federal Insurance Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency; and

c. Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of said watercourse is maintained.

2. Base Flood Elevation Changes Due to Physical Alterations.

a. Within six months of information becoming available or project completion, whichever comes first, the Floodplain Administrator shall submit or ensure that the permit applicant submits technical or scientific data to FEMA for a letter of map revision (LOMR).

b. All LOMRs for flood control projects are approved prior to the issuance of building permits. Building permits must not be issued based on conditional letters of map revision (CLOMRs). Approved CLOMRs allow construction of the proposed flood control project and land preparation as specified in the “start of construction” definition.

c. Such submissions are necessary so that, upon confirmation of those physical changes affecting flooding conditions, risk premium rates and floodplain management requirements are based on current data.

3. Changes in Corporate Boundaries. Notify FEMA in writing whenever the corporate boundaries have been modified by annexation or other means and include a copy of a map of the community clearly delineating the new corporate limits.

D. Documentation of Floodplain Development. Obtain and maintain for public inspection and make available as needed the following:

1. Certification required by NCC 4.11.170(C)(1) (lowest floor elevations) and 4.11.200;

2. Certification required by NCC 4.11.170(C)(2) (elevation or floodproofing of nonresidential structures);

3. Certification required by NCC 4.11.170(C)(3) (wet floodproofing standard);

4. Certification of elevation required by NCC 4.11.190(B) (subdivision standards); and

5. Certification required by NCC 4.11.220(A) (floodway encroachments).

E. Map Determinations. Make interpretations, where needed, as to the exact location of the boundaries of the areas of special flood hazard. Where there appears to be a conflict between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions, grade and base flood elevations shall be used to determine the boundaries of the special flood hazard area. The person contesting the location of the boundary shall be given a reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation as provided in Article VI of this chapter.

F. Remedial Action. Take action to remedy violations of this chapter as specified in NCC 4.11.080. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 4, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 4.3, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.160 Appeals.

The City Council of the City of Newman shall hear and decide appeals when it is alleged there is an error in any requirement, decision, or determination made by the Floodplain Administrator in the enforcement or administration of this chapter. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 4.4, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

Article V. Provisions for Flood Hazard Reduction

4.11.170 Standards of construction.

In all areas of special flood hazard, the following standards are required:

A. Anchoring.

1. All new construction and substantial improvements shall be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse or lateral movement of the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy.

2. All manufactured homes shall meet the anchoring standards of NCC 4.11.200.

B. Construction Materials and Methods. All new construction and substantial improvement shall be constructed:

1. With flood-resistant materials as specified in FEMA Technical Bulletin TB 2 and utility equipment resistant to flood damage;

2. Using methods and practices that minimize flood damage;

3. With electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing and air conditioning equipment and other service facilities that are designed and/or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding; and

4. If within Zones AH or AO, so that there are adequate drainage paths around structures on slopes to guide flood waters around and away from proposed structures.

C. Elevation and Floodproofing. (See NCC 4.11.050 definitions for “basement,” “lowest floor,” “new construction,” “substantial damage” and “substantial improvement.”)

1. Residential construction, new or substantial improvement, shall have the lowest floor, including basement:

a. In an AO Zone, elevated above the highest adjacent grade to a height equal to or exceeding the depth number specified in feet on the FIRM, or elevated at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is specified. (The State of California recommends that in AO Zones without velocity the lowest floor be elevated above the highest adjacent grade to a height exceeding the depth number specified in feet on the FIRM by at least two feet or elevated at least four feet above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is specified.) Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor, and verified by the Community Building Inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator and is required within six months of project completion, submittal of technical data to FEMA for a letter of map revision.

b. In an A Zone, elevated to or above the base flood elevation; said base flood elevation shall be determined by one of the methods in NCC 4.11.150(B). (The State of California recommends the lowest floor be elevated at least two feet above the base flood elevation, as determined by the community.) Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor, and verified by the Community Building Inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator and is required within six months of project completion, submittal of technical data to FEMA for a letter of map revision.

c. In all other zones, elevated to or above the base flood elevation. (The State of California recommends the lowest floor be elevated at least two feet above the base flood elevation.)

2. Nonresidential construction, new or substantial improvement, shall either be elevated to conform with subsection (C)(1) of this section or together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities:

a. Be floodproofed below the elevation recommended under subsection (C)(1) of this section so that the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water;

b. Have structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy; and

c. Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect that the standards of this section are satisfied. Such certification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator.

3. All new construction and substantial improvement with fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor (excluding basements) that are usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage, and which are subject to flooding, shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of flood water. Designs for meeting this requirement shall follow the guidelines in FEMA Technical Bulletins TB 1 and TB 7, and must exceed the following minimum criteria:

a. Have a minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding. The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade. Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves or other coverings or devices; provided, that they permit the automatic entry and exit of flood water; or

b. Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect that the standards of this section are satisfied. Such certification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator.

4. Manufactured homes shall also meet the standards in NCC 4.11.200. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 5, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.1, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.180 Standards for utilities.

A. All new and replacement water supply and sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate:

1. Infiltration of flood waters into the systems; and

2. Discharge from the systems into flood waters.

B. On-site waste disposal systems shall be located to avoid impairment to them, or contamination from them, during flooding. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.2, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.190 Standards for subdivisions.

A. All preliminary subdivision proposals shall identify the special flood hazard area and the elevation of the base flood.

B. All subdivision plans will provide the elevation of proposed structure(s) and pad(s). If the site is filled above the base flood elevation, the lowest floor and pad elevations shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor and provided to the Floodplain Administrator.

C. All subdivision proposals shall be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage.

D. All subdivision proposals shall have public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems located and constructed to minimize flood damage.

E. All subdivisions shall provide adequate drainage to reduce exposure to flood hazards.

F. All new subdivision proposals and other proposed developments (including proposals for manufactured home parks and subdivisions) greater than 50 lots or five acres, whichever is the lesser, shall include within such proposals base flood elevation data. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.3, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.200 Standards for manufactured homes.

A. All manufactured homes that are placed or substantially improved, within Zones A1 – 30, AH, and AE on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map, on sites located:

1. Outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision;

2. In a new manufactured home park or subdivision;

3. In an expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivision; or

4. In an existing manufactured home park or subdivision on a site upon which a manufactured home has incurred “substantial damage” as the result of a flood;

shall be elevated on a permanent foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated to or above the base flood elevation (the State of California recommends at least two feet above the base flood elevation) and be securely fastened to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement.

B. All manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved on sites in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision within Zones A1 – 30, AH, and AE on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map that are not subject to the provisions of subsection (A) of this section will be securely fastened to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement, and be elevated so that either the:

1. Lowest floor of the manufactured home is at or above the base flood elevation (the State of California recommends at least two feet above the base flood elevation); or

2. Manufactured home chassis is supported by reinforced piers or other foundation elements of at least equivalent strength that are no less than 36 inches in height above grade.

Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor including basement shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor, and verified by the Community Building Inspector to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.4, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.210 Standards for recreational vehicles.

A. All recreational vehicles placed on sites within Zones A1 – 30, AH, and AE on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map will either:

1. Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days, and be fully licensed and ready for highway use – a recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick-disconnect-type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions; or

2. Meet the permit requirements of Article IV of this chapter and the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in NCC 4.11.200(A). (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.5, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.220 Floodways.

Located within areas of special flood hazard established in NCC 4.11.070 are areas designated as floodways. Since the floodway is an extremely hazardous area due to the velocity of flood waters, which carry debris, potential projectiles, and erosion potential, the following provisions apply:

A. Prohibit encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvement, and other new development unless certification by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that encroachments shall not result in any increase in the base flood elevation during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.

B. If subsection (A) of this section is satisfied, all new construction, substantial improvement, and other proposed new development shall comply with all other applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of this article. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 5.6, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

Article VI. Variance Procedure

4.11.230 Nature of variances.

A. The variance criteria set forth in this article are based on the general principle of zoning law that variances pertain to a piece of property and are not personal in nature. A variance may be granted for a parcel of property with physical characteristics so unusual that complying with the requirements of this chapter would create an exceptional hardship to the applicant or the surrounding property owners. The characteristics must be unique to the property and not be shared by adjacent parcels. The unique characteristic must pertain to the land itself, not to the structure, its inhabitants, or the property owners.

B. It is the duty of the City Council to help protect its citizens from flooding. This need is so compelling and the implications of the cost of insuring a structure built below flood level are so serious that variances from the flood elevation or from other requirements in the flood ordinance are quite rare. The long-term goal of preventing and reducing flood loss and damage can only be met if variances are strictly limited. Therefore, the variance guidelines provided in this chapter are more detailed and contain multiple provisions that must be met before a variance can be properly granted. The criteria are designed to screen out those situations in which alternatives other than a variance are more appropriate. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 6.1, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.240 Appeal Board.

A. In passing upon requests for variances, the City Council shall consider all technical evaluations, all relevant factors, standards specified in other sections of this chapter, and the:

1. Danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others;

2. Danger of life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;

3. Susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the effect of such damage on the existing individual owner and future owners of the property;

4. Importance of the services provided by the proposed facility to the community;

5. Necessity to the facility of a waterfront location, where applicable;

6. Availability of alternative locations for the proposed use which are not subject to flooding or erosion damage;

7. Compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated development;

8. Relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain management program for that area;

9. Safety of access to the property in time of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles;

10. Expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise, and sediment transport of the flood waters expected at the site; and

11. Costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems, and streets and bridges.

B. Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice over the signature of a community official that:

1. The issuance of a variance to construct a structure below the base flood level will result in increased premium rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as $25.00 for $100.00 of insurance coverage; and

2. Such construction below the base flood level increases risks to life and property. It is required that a copy of the notice shall be recorded by the Floodplain Administrator in the Office of the Stanislaus County Recorder and shall be recorded in a manner so that it appears in the chain of title of the affected parcel of land.

C. The Floodplain Administrator will maintain a record of all variance actions, including justification for their issuance, and report such variances issued to the Federal Insurance Administration, Federal Emergency Management Agency. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2021-2 § 6, 6-22-2021; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 6.2, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)

4.11.250 Conditions for variances.

A. Generally, variances may be issued for new construction, substantial improvement, and other proposed new development to be erected on a lot of one-half acre or less in size contiguous to and surrounded by lots with existing structures constructed below the base flood level, providing that the procedures of Articles IV and V of this chapter have been fully considered. As the lot size increases beyond one-half acre, the technical justification required for issuing the variance increases.

B. Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of historic structures (as defined in NCC 4.11.050) upon a determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure’s continued designation as an historic structure and the variance is the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.

C. Variances shall not be issued within any mapped regulatory floodway if any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.

D. Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief. “Minimum necessary” means to afford relief with a minimum of deviation from the requirements of this chapter. For example, in the case of variances to an elevation requirement, this means the City Council need not grant permission for the applicant to build at grade, or even to whatever elevation the applicant proposes, but only to that elevation which the City Council believes will both provide relief and preserve the integrity of the local ordinance.

E. Variances shall only be issued upon a:

1. Showing of good and sufficient cause;

2. Determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship (as defined in NCC 4.11.050) to the applicant; and

3. Determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, or extraordinary public expense, create a nuisance (as defined in NCC 4.11.050 – see “public safety and nuisance”), cause fraud or victimization (as defined in NCC 4.11.050) of the public, or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.

F. Variances may be issued for new construction, substantial improvement, and other proposed new development necessary for the conduct of a functionally dependent use; provided, that the provisions of subsections (A) through (E) of this section are satisfied and that the structure or other development is protected by methods that minimize flood damages during the base flood and does not result in additional threats to public safety and does not create a public nuisance.

G. Upon consideration of the factors of NCC 4.11.240(A) and the purposes of this chapter, the City Council may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it deems necessary to further the purposes of this chapter. (Ord. 2022-3 § 1 (Att. A), 2022; Ord. 2019-5 § 1 (Att. A), 10-8-2019; Ord. 2016-4 § 1 (Att. A), 10-11-2016; Ord. 2014-4 § 2 (Att. A), 6-10-2014; Ord. 2013-3 § 1 (Att. A), 11-12-2013; Ord. 2010-7 § 1 (Att. A), 10-12-2010; Ord. 2007-10 § 1, 11-27-2007; Ord. 2000-4 § 6.3, 9-12-2000; Ord. 95-1, 3-28-1995)