§ 152.05. General provisions.

(a)

Lands to which this chapter applies. This chapter shall apply to all areas of special flood hazard within the jurisdiction of this city.

(b)

Basis for establishing the areas of special flood hazard. The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in the Flood Insurance Study for St. Lucie County, dated February 16, 2012, with accompanying maps and other supporting data, and any revision thereto, are adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this chapter.

(c)

Establishment of development permit. A development permit shall be required in conformance with the provisions of this chapter prior to the commencement of any development activities.

(d)

Compliance. No structure or land shall hereafter be located, extended, converted or structurally altered without full compliance with the terms of this chapter and other applicable regulations.

(e)

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 conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the most stringent restrictions shall prevail.

(f)

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

(1)

Considered as minimum requirements;

(2)

Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and

(3)

Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under state statutes.

(g)

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 consideration. Larger floods can and will occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be increased by man-made 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 this city or any officer or employee thereof for any flood damage that results from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.

(Ord. No. 12-06, § 1, 2-13-12)

Cross reference

Penalty, see section 152.99.