HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinance 87- 1237 Repeals and replaces Ord. 1097, floodplain regulations
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ORDINANCE NO. 1237
AN ORDINANCE OF THE BOZEMAN CITY COMMISSION REPEALING THE FLOOD
HAZARD DISTRICT ESTABLISHED BY ORDINANCE NO. 1097 AND AS CODIFIED IN
CHAPTER 18.44 OF THE BOZEMAN MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADOPTING THE
BOZEMAN AREA FLOOD PLAIN REGULATIONS IN ITS STEAD.
INTENT
I This Ordinance is passed in order to comply with the Montana Floodplain and Floodway
Management Act (Title 76, Chapter 5-MCA) and to ensure compliance with the requirements for
the continued participation by the City of Bozeman, Montana in the National Flood Insurance
Program. Land-use regulations which are hereby adopted are to be applied to all identified
100-year floodplains within local zoning jurisdiction.
REPEAL
Ordinance No. 1097 is hereby repealed.
BOZEMAN AREA FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS
TITLE AND PURPOSE
1.01 Title
-
These Regulations shall be known and cited as The Bozeman Area Floodplain Regulations.
These Regulations are in accordance with exercising the authority of the laws of the State of
Montana.
1.02 Purpose
To promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, to minimize flood losses in
areas subject to flood hazards, and to promote wise use of the floodplain. These Regulations
have been established with the following purposes intended:
A. To guide development of the 100-year floodplain area within the Bozeman Zoning
Jurisdiction area consistent with the enumerated findings by:
1. Recognizing the right and need of water courses to periodically carry more
than the normal flow of water;
I 2. Participating in coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local management
activities for 100-year floodplains; and
3. Ensuring the regulations and minimum standards adopted, insofar as
possible, balance the greatest public good with the least private injury.
B. Specifically it is the purpose of these Regulations to:
1. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and
property in times of flood, or cause increased flood heights and velocities;
2. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including public facilities, be
provided with flood protection at the time of initial construction;
3. Utilize information which identifies lands unsuitable for certain development
purposes because of flood hazards;
4. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding
undertaken at the expense of the general publ ic;
5. Ensure that potential buyers are notified that property is within a 100-year
floodplain and subject to the provisions of these Regulations; and
6. Ensure that those who occupy 100-year floodplains assume responsibility for
their actions.
DEFINITIONS
2.01 Definitions
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in these Regulations shall be
interpreted so as to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give these
I Regulations the most reasonable application.
Alteration--Any change or addition to a structure that increases its external dimensions.
Appeal--A request for a review of the Floodplain Administrator's interpretation of any
provisions of these Regulations or a request for a variance.
Area of Special Flood Hazard-- The land in the floodplain within the community subject to
inundation by a one percent (1 %) or greater chance of flooding in any given year, i. e.
the 100-year floodplain.
Artificial Obstruction - Development--Any obstruction which is not natural and includes
any dam, diversion, wall, riprap, embankment, levee, dike, pile, abutment, projection,
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revetment, excavation, channel rectification, bridge, conduit, culvert, building, refuse,
automobile body, fill or other analogous structure or matter in, along, across, or
projecting into any 100-year floodplain which may impede, retard, or alter the pattern of
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 water would carry the same downstream to the
damage or detriment of either life or property.
Base Flood--A flood having a one percent (1 %) chance of being equalled or exceeded in I
any given year. A base flood is the same as a 100-year flood.
Channelization Project--The excavation and/or construction of an artificial channel for the
purpose of diverting the entire flow of a stream from its established course.
Establish--To construct, place, insert, or excavate.
Flood or Flooding--A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation or
normally dry lands from the overflow of a stream, or the unusual and rapid accumulation
or runoff of surface waters from any source.
Floodplain-- The areas generally adjoining a stream which would be covered by floodwater.
It consists of a floodway and flood way fringe.
Floodway-- The channel of a stream and the adjacent overbank areas that must be
reserved in order to discharge a base flood without cumulatively increasing the water
surface elevation more than one-half (1/2) foot.
Floodway Fringe-- That portion of the floodplain outside the limits of the floodway.
Flood Insurance Rate Map--The map on which the Federal Emergency Management Agency
has delineated both the 100-year floodplains and the risk premium zones.
Flood Insurance Study--The report in which the Federal Emergency Management Agency
has provided flood profiles, as well as the Flood Boundary - Floodway Map and the water
surface profiles.
Levee--A man-made structure, usually 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. I
Levee System--A flood protection system which consists of a levee, or levees, and
associated structures, such as drainage and closure devices, which are constructed and
operated in accordance with sound engineering practices.
Lowest Floor--Any floor used for living purposes, storage, or recreation. This includes
any floor that could be converted to such a use.
Manufactured Home--A structure 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. For floodplain management purposes it also includes
park trai lers, travel trai lers, and other simi lar vehicles placed on a site for greater than
180 consecutive days.
Manufactured Home Park or Subdivision--A parcel or contiguous parcels of land divided
into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
Mean Sea Level-- The National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) of 1929 or other datum to
which base flood elevations are referenced.
New Construction--Structures for which the start of construction, substantial
improvement, or alteration commences on or after the effective date of these Regulations.
Non-Conforming Use--A land use not in accordance with these Regulations.
Official Floodplain Maps-- The Flood I nsurance Rate Maps and Flood Boundary-Floodway
Maps provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for Bozeman, Montana dated
March 15,1982.
Permit Issuing Authority--Bozeman City Commission. I
Riprap--Stone, rocks, concrete blocks, or analogous material that is placed along the
banks or bed of a stream for the purpose of alleviating erosion.
Start of Construction-- The first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a
site, such as pouring of slabs or footings or any work beyond the state' of excavation.
Permanent construction of residential structures 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 the excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or
foundation or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the
ORDINANCE NG. 1237
251
property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units
or not as part of the main structure. For a structure (other than a manufactured home)
without a basement or poured footings, the start of construction includes the first
permanent framing or assembly of the structure or any part thereof on its pi ling or
foundation. For manufactured homes or within a manufactured home park or subdivision,
start of construction is the completion date of construction of facilities for servicing the
I manufactured home site. At a minimum this includes the construction of streets, either
final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads, and the installation of utilities. For
manufactured homes being replaced in an existing park or subdivision, start of
construction means placement of the home on the foundation.
Structure--A walled and roofed building, manufactured home, or a gas or liquid storage
tank, that is principally above ground.
Substantial Improvement--Any repair, reconstruction, or improvement of a structure, the
cost of which equals or exceeds fifty percent (50%) of the market value of the structure
either:
( 1 ) before the improvement or repair is started, or
(2) if the structure has been damaged, and is being restored, before the damage
occurred.
For the purposes of this definition, substantial improvement is considered to occur when
the first construction to any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of the building
commences. 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 I nventory of Historic Places.
Suitable Fill--Fill material which is stable, compacted, well graded, pervious, generally
I unaffected by water and frost, devoid of trash or simi lar foreign matter, tree stumps, or
other organic material; and is fitting for the purpose of supporting the intended use
and/or permanent structure.
Variance--A grant or relief from the requirements of these Regulations which would permit
construction in a manner that would otherwise be prohibited by these Regulations.
Violation-- The fai lure of a structure or other development to be fully compl iant with these
regulations. A structure or other development without elevation certificate, certification
by a licensed engineer or architect, or other evidence of compliance is presumed to be in
violation until such time as documentation is provided.
100- Year Flood--A flood having a one percent (1 %) chance of being equalled or exceeded
in any given year. A 100-year flood has nearly a 23 percent chance of occurring in a
25-year period. A 1 DO-year flood is the same as a base flood.
GENERAL PROVISIONS
3.01 Jurisdictional Area
These Regulations shall apply to all lands within the zoning jurisdiction of the City of
Bozeman, State of Montana, shown on the Official Floodplain Maps as being located within a
100-year floodplain district.
3.02 Floodplain District Establishment
The floodplain districts established are defined by the 100-year floodplains as a delineated
in the Flood I nsurance Study. The basis for the Flood I nsurance Study is a scientific and
engineering report entitled, liThe Flood Insurance Study for Bozeman, Montana", dated
I September 15, 1981, with accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Boundary -
Floodway Maps. The Official Floodplain Maps, together with the Flood Insurance Study are on
file in the office of the Floodplain Administrator.
3.03 Floodplain Administrator
The Bozeman Floodplain Administrator has been designated to be the City Engineer. The
responsibilities of this position are outlined in Chapter IV of these Regulations.
3.04 Rules for Interpretation of Floodplain District Boundaries
The boundaries of the 100-year floodplain and floodway shall be determined by scaling
dista'nces on the official floodplain maps. For unnumbered A Zones and AO Zone floodplains,
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where there is a confl ict between a mapped floodplain boundary and actual field conditions, the
Floodplain Administrator may determine that the area is not to be included within the 100-
year floodplain. The property owner or developer then does not have to satisfy the provisions
of these Regulations.
3.05 Compliance
No structure or land use shall be located, extended, converted, altered or substantially
improved without full compliance with the provisions of these Regulations and other applicable I
regulations. These Regulations meet the minimum floodplain development requirements as set
forth by the Montana Board of Natural Resources and Conservation and in the National Flood
I nsurance Program regulations.
3.06 Abrogation and Greater Responsibility
It is not intended by these Regulations to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing
easements, convenants, deed restrictions, or under lying zon ing. However, where these
Regulations impose greater restrictions, the provisions of these Regulations shall prevai I.
3.07 Regulation Interpretation
The interpretation and application of the provisions of these Regulations shall be
considered minimum requirements and liberally construed in favor of the governing body and not
deemed a limitation or repeal of any other powers granted by State statute.
3.08 Warning and Disclaimer of Liability
These Regulations do not imply that areas outside the delineated floodplain boundaries or
permitted land uses wi II always be totally free from flooding or flood damages. These regulations
shall not create a liability or cause of action against Bozeman, Montana, or any officer or
employee thereof for flood damages that may result from rei iance upon these Regulations.
3.09 Severability
I f any section, clause, provision, or portion of these Regulations is adjudged
unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of these
Regulations shall not be affected thereby.
3.10 Disclosure Provision I
All owners of property in an identified 100-year floodplain as indicated on the Official
Floodplain Maps must notify potental buyers or their agents that such property is subject to the
provisions of these Regulations.
ADMINISTRATION
4.01 Administration
A. As provided in Section 3.03 of these Regulations, the Floodplain Administrator has
been designated by the City Commission, and has the responsibility of such position as
outlined in these Regulations.
B. The Floodplain Administrator is hereby appointed with the authority to review
floodplain development permit applications, proposed uses, and construction to determine
compliance with these Regulations. The Floodplain Administrator is required to assure all
necessary permits have been received from those governmental agencies from which
approval is required by federal and state law and local codes, including Section 404 of
the Federal Water Pollution Control Act of 1972, 33 U. S. C. 1334.
1. Additional Factors - Floodplain development permits shall be granted or
denied by the Floodplain Administrator on the basis of whether the proposed
establishment, alteration, or substantial improvement of an artificial obstruction
development or non-conforming use meets the requirements of these Regulations.
Additional factors that shall be considered for every permit application are:
a. the danger to life and property due to increased flood heights,
increased flood water velocities, or alterations in the pattern of flood flow I
caused by encroachments;
b. the danger that materials may be swept onto other lands or
downstream to the injury of others;
c. the proposed water supply and sanitation systems and the abi lity of
these systems to prevent disease, contamination, and unsanitary conditions;
d. the susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood
damage and the effects of such damage on the individual owner;
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e. the importance of the services provided by the facility to the
community;
f. the requirement of the facility for a waterfront location;
g. the availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding for the
proposed use;
h. the compatibility of the proposed use with existing development and
I anticipated development in the foreseeable future;
i. the relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and
floodplain management program for the area;
j . the safety of access to property in times of flooding for ordinary and
emergency services; and
k. such other factors as are in harmony with the purposes of these
Regulations, the Montana Floodplain and Floodway Management Act, and the
National Flood Insurance Program.
C. A floodplain development permit application is considered to have been automatically
granted sixty (60) days after the date of receipt of the application by the Floodplain
Administrator, unless the applicant has been notified that the permit is denied,
conditionally approved, or additional information pertinent to the permit review process is
required.
D. The Floodplain Administrator shall adopt such administrative procedures as may be
necessary to efficiently administer the provision of these Regulations.
E. The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain such fi les and records as may be
necessary to document nonconforming uses, flood elevation, floodproofing and elevation
certification, fee receipts, the issuance of permits, agendas, minutes, records of publ ic
meetings, and any other matters related to floodplain management in the Bozeman Zoning
Jurisdictional Area. Such files and records shall be open for public inspection. In
'matters of litigation the City Attorney may restrict access to specific records.
I F. Copies of all permits granted must be sent to the Department of Natural Resources
and Conservation in Helena, Montana.
G. In riverine situations notification by the Floodplain Administrator must be made to
adjacent communities, the Floodplain Management Section (DNRC), and the Federal
Emergency Management Agency prior to any alteration or relocation of a stream. The
flood-carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of any stream must be
maintained.
4.02. Permit Applications
A. Activities or uses which require the issuance of a permit, including the expansion
or alteration of such uses, shall not be initiated, established or undertaken until a permit
has been issued by the Floodplain Administrator.
B. Permit applicants may be required to furnish the following information as deemed
necessary by the Floodplain Administrator for determining the suitability of the particular
site for the proposed use:
1. Plans in duplicate drawn to scale (including dimensions) showing the
nature, location, and elevation of the lot, existing and proposed structure
locations, fi II, storage or materials site, flood-proofing measures, mean sea level
elevation of first floor of proposed structures, location of the channel and I imits of
100-year floodplain boundary.
2. A plan view of the proposed development indicating external dimensions of
structures, street or road finished grade elevations, well locations, individual
I sewage treatment and disposal sites, excavation and/or fill quantity estimates, site
plan and/or construction plans; and
3. Specifications for flood-proofing, filling, excavating, grading, riprapping,
storage of materials, and location of utilities.
C. To determine that the permit specifications and conditions have been completed,
applicants who have received permits are required to furnish the following at the time of
an on-site conformance inspection:
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1. Certification by a registered professional engineer or licensed land surveyor
of the actual mean sea level elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) of
all new, altered, or substantially improved structures.
2. I f flood-proofing techniques were used for structures, the mean sea level
elevation to which the flood proofing was accomplished must be certified in the
same manner.
4.03 Emergency Waiver I
A. Emergency repair and/or replacement of severely damaged public transportation
facilities, public water and sewer facilities, and flood control works may be authorized.
Floodplain development permit requirements may be waived if:
1. Upon notification and prior to the emergency repair and/or replacement, the
Floodplain Administrator determines that an emergency condition exists warranting
immediate action; and
2. The Floodplain Administrator agrees upon the nature and type of proposed
emergency repair and/or replacement.
B. Authorization to undertake emergency repair and/or replacement work may be
given verbally if the Floodplain Administrator feels that written authorization would
unduly delay the emergency works. Such verbal authorization must be followed by a
written authorization stating the emergency condition, the type of emergency work agreed
upon, and a notation that a verbal authorization had been previously given.
4.04 Review-Va riances-Appea I s
A. There is hereby created a local Floodplain Management Board of Adjustment, the
membership, administration, and rules of procedure of which are identical to a board of
adjustment.
B. The Board of Adjustment may, by variance, grant a permit that is not in
compliance with the minimum standards contained in these Regulations according to the
following procedures:
1. Variances shall not be issued for areas within a floodway if any increase in I
flood elevations or velocities would result;
2. Variances shall on Iy be issued upon:
a. a showing of good and sufficient cause;
b. a determination that refusa I of a permit due to exceptional
circumstances would cause a unique or undue hardship on the applicant or
community involved;
c. a determination that the granting of a variance will not result in
increased flood heights, present additiona I threats to public safety, be an
extraordinary public expense, create nuisances, cause fraud, victimize the
public, or conflict with existing state and local laws;
d. a determination that the proposed use would be adequately
flood-proofed;
e. a determination that a reasonable alternate location outside the
floodplain is not available;
f. a determination that the variance requested is the minimum necessary
to afford relief, considering the flood hazard; and
g. approval of the Montana Department of Natural Resources and
Conservation, upon request from the Bozeman City Commission, prior to
formally approving any permit application which is in variance to these
Regulations.
3. Variances shall be issued in writing from the Permit I ssuing Authority and I
shall notify the applicant that:
a. a specific variance is granted, and certain conditions may be
attached;
b. the issuance of a variance to construct a structure below the
100-year floodplain elevation wi II result in increased premium rates; and
c. such construction below the 100-year flood elevation increases risks
to life and property. The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain records of
the variance notification and actions, including justification for their
ORD I NANCE NO. 1237
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issuance, and forward copies of all variance actions to the Montana
Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and the Federal
Emergency Management Agency.
C. Appeal of any decision of the Permit Issuing Authority, its officers, or agencies
may be taken by an aggrieved person or persons, jointly or separately, to a court of
record.
I 4.05 Fees
-
A processing fee of FIFTY DOLLARS ($50.00) shall be submitted with each permit
application.
4.06 Violation Notice
The Floodplain Administrator shall bring any violation of these Regulations to the
attention of the local governing body; the City Attorney; and the Montana Department of Natural
Resources and Conservation.
4.07 Compl iance
Any use, arrangement, or construction not in compliance as authorized by permit, shall
be deemed a violation of these Regulations and punishable as provided in Section 4.08. An
applicant is required to submit certification by a registered professional engineer, architect, or
other qualified person designated by the Floodplain Administrator that finished fill and building
floor elevations, flood proofing, or other flood protection measures were accomplished in
compliance with these Regulations.
4.08 Penalties
Violation of the provisions of these Regulations or fai lure to comply with any of the
requirements, including permit approval prior to development within the floodplain boundaries
and conditions and safeguards established in connection with variances, shall constitute a
misdemeanor. Any person who violates these Regulations or fails to comply with any of its
requirements shall, upon conviction, be fined not more than ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS ($100) or
imprisoned in jai I for not more than ten (10) days or both. Each day1s continuance of a
I violation shall be deemed a separate and distinct offense.
SPECIFIC STANDARDS
5.01 Applications
The minimum floodplain development standards listed in this chapter apply to the floodway
and floodway fringe portions of the 100-year floodplain as delineated on the Flood
Boundary-Floodway Maps, and also correspond to the numbered A or AE zones depicted on the
Flood I nsurance Rate Maps.
5.02 Floodway
A. Uses Allowed Without Permits. The following open space uses shall be allowed
without a permit within the floodway, provided that such uses conform to the provisions
of Chapter VII of these Regulations, are not prohibited by any other ordinance,
resolution, or statute and do not requi re fill, excavation, permanent storage of materia Is,
or equipment or structures other than portable structures:
1. Agricultural uses;
2. Accessory uses such as loading and parking areas, or emergency landing
strips associated with industrial and commercial faci lities;
3. Private and public recreational uses such as golf courses, driving ranges,
archery ranges, picnic grounds, boat-launching ramps, parks, wi Id/ife management
and natural areas, game farms, fish hatcheries, shooting preserves, target ranges,
trap and skeet ranges, hunting and fishing areas, and hiking or horseback riding
trails;
I 4. Forestry, including processing of forest products with portable equipment;
5. Residential uses such as lawns, gardens, parking .areas, and play areas;
6. I rrigation and livestock supply wells, provided that they are located at
least Five Hundred (500) feet from domestic water supply wells; and
B. Uses Requiring Permits. The following artificial obstructions and non-conforming
uses may be permitted in the floodway subject to the issuance of a permit by the
Floodplain Administrator:
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255
1. Excavation of material from pits and pools provided that:
a. a buffer strip of undisturbed land is left between the edge of the
channel and the edge of the excavation. This buffer strip must be of
sufficient width to prevent flood flows from channeling into the excavation;
b. the excavation meets all applicable laws and regulations of other local
and state agencies; and
c. excavated material is stockpiled outside the floodway. I
2. Rai Iroad, highway, and street stream crossings provided the crossings are
designed to offer minimal obstruction to flood flow and do not increase elevation of
the 100-year flood more than one-half foot.
3. Limited filling for highway, street, and railroad embankments not associated
with stream crossings, provided that:
a. reasonable alternate transportation routes outside the designated
floodway are not available; and
b. such floodway encroachment is located as far from the stream
channel as possible.
4. Buried or suspended utility transmission lines, provided that:
a. suspended utility transmission lines are designed so the lowest point
of the suspended line is at least six (6) feet higher than the elevation of
the 100-year flood;
b. towers and other appurtenant structures are designed and placed to
withstand and minimally obstruct flood flows; and
c. utility transmission lines carrying toxic or flammable materials are
buried to a depth of at least twice the calculated maximum depth of scour
for a 100-year flood. The maximum depth of scour may be determined from
any of the accepted hydraulic engineering methods, but the final calculated
figure shall be subject to approval by the Floodplain Administrator.
5. Storage of materials and equipment, provided that: I
a. the material or equipment is not subject to major damage by flooding
and is properly anchored to prevent flotation or downstream movement; or
b. the material or equipment is readily movable within the limited time
available after flood warning. Storage of flammable, toxic, or explosive
materials shall not be permitted.
6. Domestic water supply wells, provided that:
a. they are driven or drilled wells located on ground higher than the
surrounding ground to assure positive drainage form the well;
b. well casings are water tight to a distance of at least twenty-five
(25) feet below the ground su rface;
c. water supply and electrical lines have a watertight seal where the
lines enter the casing;
d. all pumps, electrical lines, and equipment are either submersible or
adequately flood~proofed; and
e. check valves are installed on main water lines at wells and at all
bui Iding 'entry locations.
7. Buried and sealed vaults for sewage disposal in recreational areas, provided
they meet applicable laws and standards administered by the Montana Department
of Health and Environmental Sciences.
8. Public or private campgrounds, provided that:
a. access roads require only limited fill and do not obstruct or divert I
flood waters; and
b. manufactured homes, including travel trai lers and park trai lers, are
not in place more than one-hundred eighty (180) consecutive days.
9. Structures accessory to the uses permitted in this section such as boat
docks, marinas, sheds, picnic shelters, tables, and toilets provided that:
a. the structures are not intended for human habitation;
b. the structures wi II have a low flood damage potential;
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251
c. the structures will, insofar as possible, be located on ground higher
than the surrounding ground and as far from the channel as possible;
d. the flood-proofing standards of Chapter VII are met; and
e. the structures will be constructed and placed so as to offer minimal
obstruction to flood flows and a re anchored to prevent flotation.
10. Fences, except permanent fences crossing channels.
I 11. Substantial improvements to any structure provided that the provisions of
Section 5.03-B.3 and Section 5.03-B.4 of these Regulations are met.
12. All other artificial obstructions, substantial improvements, or
non-conforming uses not specifically I isted or prohibited by these Regulations.
C. Permits for Flood Control Works. Flood control works shall e allowed within
floodways subject to the issuance of a permit b;y the Floodplain Administrator with the
following conditions:
1. Levees and floodwalls are permitted if:
a. the proposed levee or floodwall is designed and constructed to safely
convey a 100-year flood; and
b. the cumulative effect of the levee or floodwall combined with
allowable flood way fringe encroachments does not increase the unobstructed
elevation of the 1 OO-yea r flood. The Floodplain Administrator may establish
either a lower or higher permissible increase in the elevation of the
100-year flood for individual levee projects. Any change must be in
concurrence with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and
Conservation and the Federal Emergency Management Agency based upon
the following criteria:
1 ) the estimated cumulative effect of any anticipated future
reasonable permissible uses; and
2) the type and amount of existing flood-prone development in the
I affected area.
c. the proposed levee or floodwall, except those to protect agricultural
land, are constructed at least three (3) feet higher than the elevation a
100-year flood.
2. Riprap, except that which is hand-placed, if:
a. the riprap is designed to withstand a 100-year flood;
b. the riprap does not increase the elevation of the 100-year flood; and
c. the riprap will not increase erosion upstream, downstream, or
adjacent to the riprap site.
3. Channelization projects if they do not significantly increase the magnitude,
velocity, or elevation of the 100-year flood in the proximity of the project.
4. Dams, provided that:
a. they are designed and constructed in accordance with approved
safety standards; and
b. they will not increase flood hazards downstream, either through
operational procedures or improper hydrologic design.
D. Permits for Water Diversions. Permits for the establishment of a water diversion
or change in place of diversion shall not be issued if, in the judgment of the Floodplain
Administrator:
1. the proposed diversion will significantly increase the upstream elevation of
the 100-year flood to the detriment of neighboring property;
I 2. the proposed diversion is not designed and constructed to minimize potential
erosion from a 100-year flood; and
3. any permanent diversion structure crossing the full width of the stream
channel is not designed and constructed to safely withstand up to a 100-year
flood.
E. Prohibited Uses. The following artificial obstructions and non-conforming uses are
prohibited within the floodway:
1. New construction, substantial improvements, and alterations of any
residential, commercial, or industrial structure;
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258
2. Encroachments--including fill, new construction, alterations, substantial
improvements, and other development within the adopted regulatory floodway that
would result in erosion of the embankment, obstruction of the natural flow of
waters, or increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of
the 100-year flood;
.3. The construction or permanent storage of an object subject to flotation or
movement during flood level periods; I
4. New Construction, replacement, substantial improvements, and alterations of
manufactured homes.
5. Solid waste disposal, sewage treatment, and sewage disposal systems,
except as al lowed or approved under the laws and standards administered by the
Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences; and
6. Storage of highly toxic, flammable, or explosive materials.
5.03 Floodway Fringe
A. Uses Allowed Without Permits. All uses allowed in the floodway, according to the
provisions of Section 5. 02A of these Regulations, shall also be allowed without a permit in
the floodway fringe.
B. Uses Requiring Permits. All uses allowed in the floodway subject to the issuance
of a permit, according to the provisions of Section 5.028 and Section 5. 02C of these
Regulations, shall also be allowed by permit within the floodway fringe. In addition, new
construction, substantial improvements, and alterations to structur-es are allowed by
permit. This includes but is not limited to residential, commercial, and industrial
construction, and suitable fill to be allowed by permit from the Floodplain Administrator
and subject to the following conditions:
1. Such structures or fill must not be prohibited by any other statute,
regulation, ordinance, or resolution;
2. Such structures or fill must be compatible with local comprehensive plans;
3. The new construction, alterations, and substantial improvements of I
residential structures including manufactured homes must be constructed on
suitable fill such that the lowest floor elevation (including basement) is two feet or
more above the elevation of the 100-year flood. The suitable fill shall be at an
elevation no lower than the elevation of the 100-year flood and shall extend for at
least fifteen feet, at that elevation, beyond the structure(s) in all directions;
4. The new construction, alteration, and substantial improvement of commercial
and industrial structures can be constructed on suitable fill as specified in Section
5.03-B.3 of these Regulations. I f not constructed on fill, commercial and
industrial structures must be adequately flood-proofed to an elevation no lower
than two (2) feet above the elevation of the 100-year flood. Flood-proofing must
be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect that the
flood-proofing methods are adequate to withstand the flood depths, hydrodynamic
and hydrostatic pressures, velocities, impact, buoyancy, and uplift forces
associated with the 100-year flood;
a. if the structure is designed to allow internal flooding of the lower
floor, use of the lowest floor shall be limited to parking, loading areas, and
storage of equipment or materials not appreciably affected by flood waters.
The floors and walls shall be designed and constructed of materials
resistant to flooding to an elevation no lower than two feet above the
100-year flood elevation. Walls shall be designed to equalize hydrostatic
forces by allowing for entry and exit of floodwaters. Openings may be I
equipped with screens, louvres, valves, other coverings, or devices which
permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
b. structures whose lowest floors are used for a purpose other than
parking, loading, or storage of materials resistant to flooding shall be
waterproofed to an elevation no lower than two (2) feet above the 100-year
flood elevation. Waterproofing shall include impermeable membranes or
materials for floors and walls and watertight enclosures for all windows,
ORDI NANCE NO. 1237
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doors, and other openings. These structures shall be designed to
withstand the hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and buoyancy effects of a
100-year flood.
c. flood-proofing shall also be accomplished in accordance with Chapter
VII of these Regulations.
5. Manufactured homes must be elevated on suitable compacted fill so that the
I lowest floor of the manufactured home will be two (2) feet above the 100-year flood
elevation. This includes new construction, substantial improvement, alteration, or
replacement of manufactured homes within an existing manufactured home park or
subdivision and manufactured homes on individual sites. The manufactured home
must be anchored according to specifications prepared by a professional engineer
to resist flotation, collapse, or lateral movement. Methods of anchoring may
include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground
anchors;
6. Manufactured homes proposed for use as a commercial or industrial
structure must be anchored and elevated, rather than flood-proofed;
7. Roads, streets, highways, and rail lines shall be designed to minimize
increase in flood heights. Where failure or interruption of transportation facilities
would result in danger to the public health or safety, the facility shall be located
two (2) feet above the elevation of the 100-year flood;
8. Agricultural structures that have a low damage potential, such as sheds,
barns, shelters, and hay or grain storage structures must be adequately anchored
to prevent flotation or collapse;
C. Prohibited Uses: The following artificial obstructions and nonconforming uses are
prohibited within the floodway fringe:
1. Solid waste disposal, sewage treatment, and sewage disposal systems,
except as allowed or approved under the laws and standards administered by the
I Montana Department of Health and Environmental Sciences; and
2. Storage of high Iy toxic, flammable, or explosive materials. Storage of
petroleum products may be allowed by permit if buried in tightly sealed
impermeable containers or if storaged on compacted fill at least two feet above the
elevation of the 100-year flood and anchored to prevent downstream movement.
5.04 Floodplain Areas with Flood Elevations and No Delineated Floodway
A. A development proposed for a 100-year floodplain, where water surface elevations
are available but no floodway is delineated, may not significantly increase food velocities
or depths or generally alter patters of flood flow. The provisions of Section 5.03,
Floodway Fringe, shall apply to these areas. The Floodplain Administrator may require a
permit applicant to furnish additional hydraulic data before acting on a permit application
for such a floodplain. The data may include, but are not I imited to, any of the
following:
1. a hydraulic study documenting probable effect on upstream or downstream
property owners caused by the proposed development; or
2. the calculated increase in the 100-year flood frequency water surface profi Ie
caused by the proposed development.
B. Permits for such proposed development may be modified or denied if the additional
information shows that the proposed use would cause an additional flood hazard to
adjacent property or significantly increase flood heights. A significant increase in flood
heights is one-half foot unless existing or anticipated development in the area dictates a
I lesser amount of allowable increase.
5.05 Shallow Flooding (AO Zones)
A. Shallow flooding areas are delineated as AO Zone floodplains on the Flood
Insurance Rate Maps. The provisions of Section 5.03, Floodway Fringe, of these
Regulations shall apply to any AO Zone floodplains. The depth of the 100-year flood is
indicated as the depth number on the Flood I nsurance Rate Maps. The 100-year flood
depth shall be referenced to the highest adjacent grade or stream flow line in determining
fill or flood-proofing heights which are to be utilized in applying the provisions of Section
5.03-B.3 and Section 5.03-B.4 of these Regulations. In the absence of depth or elevation
information a two-foot (2') flood depth should be used.
ORDINANCE NO. 1237
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1. Floodplain Boundary Interpretation. The Floodplain Administrator shall
make interpretations where needed as to the exact location of an AO Zone
floodplain boundary when there is a conflict between a mapped boundary and
actual field conditions.
GENERAL STANDARDS
6.01 Applications
The minimum floodplain development standards listed in this chapter apply to the 100-year I
floodplains delineated by approximate methods and identified as unnumbered A Zones on the
Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
A. Uses Allowed Without Permits. All uses allowed in a floodway, according to the
provisions of Section 5. 02-A of these Regulations, shall a Iso be allowed without a permit
in the floodway fringe.
B. Uses Requiring Permits. All uses allowed in the floodway fringe subject to the
issuance of a permit, according to the provisions of Section 5.03-B, shall require permits
from the Floodplain Administrator for Zone A floodplains. Also, the provisions of Section
5.03-B apply to the Zone A floodplains with no floodway delineated or water surface
profi Ie computed. Since there are no 100-year frequency water surface profiles computed
for Zone A floodplains, the following conditions also apply:
1. Elevation data on the 100-year flood shall be provided by the applicant for
subdivision proposals, manufactured home parks, and other proposed developments
which contain at least 50 lots or 5 acres (whichever is less) and used in applying
Sections 5. 03-B. 3 and 5. 03-B. 4 of these Regulations;
2. Obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any 100-year flood elevation and
floodway data avai lable from federal, state, or other sources, until such data have
been provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to enforce Section
5.03-B.3 and 5.03~B.4 of these Regulations; and
3. Historical flood elevations may be used by the Floodplain Administrator in
determining suitable fill or flood-proofing elevations to be utilized in applying I
Sections 5.03-B.3 and 5.03-B.4 of these Regulations;
4. If historical flood evidence is not available then the Floodplain Administrator
shall determine, from a field review at the proposed development site, an
appropriate fill or flood-proofing elevation to be utilized in applying Sections
5.03-B.3 and 5.03-B.4 of these Regulations; and
5. Proposed structures must be anchored to prevent flotation or collapse and
must be located as far from stream channels as practicable.
C. Prohibited Uses. Those uses prohibited in the Floodway Fringe, in accordance
with Section 5. 03-C of these Regulations, shall also be prohibited within the Zone A
floodplain boundaries.
D. Floodplain Boundary Interpretation. The Floodplain Administrator shall make
interpretations where needed as to the exact location of the Zone A floodplain boundary
when there is a conflict between a mapped boundary and aetual field conditions.
FLOOD-PROOFI NG REQU I REMENTS
7.01 Ce rti ficat ion
If the following flood-proofing requirements are to be utilized for a proposed structure,
as stipulated by the Floodplain Administrator in accordance with these Regulations, the methods
used must be certified as adequate by a registered professional engineer or architect.
7.02 Conformance
Permitted flood-proof systems shall conform to the conditions listed belowhand the
flood-proofing standards listed in Section 5. 03-B. 4 of these Regulations for commercial and I
industrial structures.
A. Electrical Systems
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 elevation of the
100-year flood;
2. Portable or movable electrical equipment may be placed below the elevation
of the 100-year flood, if the equipment can be disconnected by a single
submersi ble plug-and-socket assembly;
ORDINANCE NO. 1237
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3. The main power service line shall have automatic or manually operated
electrical disconnect equipment located at an accessible location outside the
100-year floodplain and above the elevation of the 100-year flood; and
4. All electrical wiring systems installed at or below the elevation of the
100-year flood shall be suitable for continuous submergence and may not contain
fibrous components.
I B. Heating Systems
1. Float operated automatic control valves must be installed in gas furnace
supply lines so that the fuel supply is automatically shut off when flood waters
reach the floor level where the furnace is located;
2. Manually operated gate valves must be installed in gas supply lines. The
gate valves must be operable from an accessible location above the elevation of the
100-year flood.
3. Electric heating systems must be installed in accordance with the provisions
of Section 7. 02-A.
C. Plumbing Systems
1. Sewer lines, except those to be buried and sealed in vaults, must have
check valves installed to prevent sewage backup into permitted structures;
2. All toilet stools, sinks, urinals, and drains must be located so the lowest
point of possible water entry is at least two- feet above the elevation of the
1 OO-yea r flood.
ORDI NANCE REPEALED
8.01 Ordinance Repealed
All other ordinances and parts of ordinances in confl ict with these provisions are hereby
repealed.
SAVINGS PROVISION
9.01 Savings Provision
I This ordinance does not affect rights and duties that matured, penalties that were
incurred or proceedings that were begun before the effective date of this ordinance.
SEVERAB I L1TY
10.01 Severability
I f any provision of this ordinance is declared unconstitutional, or the applicability thereof
to any person or circumstances is held invalid, the constitutionality of the remainder of the
ordinance and applicability thereof to other persons and circumstances shall not be affected
thereby.
PROVISIONALLY PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Commission of the City of Bozeman,
Montana, this 6th day of July 1987.
JUDITH A. MATHRE
Mayor
ATTEST:
ROBIN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
I FINALLY PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Commission of the City of Bozeman,
Montana, this 20th day of July 1987, and effective thirty (30) days after said date.
JUDITH A. MATHRE
Mayor
ATTEST:
ROBIN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
ORDINANCE NO. 1237
262
State of Montana )
County of Gallatin : ss
City of Bozeman )
I, Robin L. Sullivan, Clerk of the City Commission of the City of Bozeman, do hereby
certify that the foregoing Ordinance No. 1237 was published by title number in the Bozeman
Daily Chronicle, a newspaper of general circulation printed and published in said City, in the
issue dated the 23rd day of July, 1987, and said proof of such publication is on file in my
office.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I hereunto set my hand and affix the corporate seal of my I
office.
ROBIN L. SULLIVAN
Clerk of the Commission
I
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ORDINANCE NO. 1237
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