Any construction or improvement (additions, rehabilitation, reconstruction) to an existing building in a Special Flood Hazard Area exceeding 50% of the buildings market value must meet the same construction requirements as a new building.
- Substantial improvement includes structures which have incurred “substantial damage”. Substantial damage means damage of any origin sustained by a structure whereby the cost of restoring the structure to it’s pre-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.
- More information can be obtained from the District offices and from the FEMA publication - Answers to Questions about Substantially Damaged Buildings
The District issues development permits for such improvements. The permit serves as a cumulative tracking system for managing substantial improvement. The value of all improvements made after December 14, 1981, shall be considered.