§ 13-03-030. Flood openings.

All new construction and substantial improvements, 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 floodwater. Designs for meeting this requirement must meet or exceed the following criteria:

(1)

A minimum of two (2) openings, on different sides of each enclosed area, having a total net area of not less than one (1) square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding. The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one (1) 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 floodwater; or

(2)

If it is not feasible or desirable to meet the openings criteria stated above, a registered engineer or architect may design and certify the openings.

(Ord. No. 1388, 12-7-10; Ord. No. 1569 , 6-13-18)