Flood zone rules and map adoption

A. Applicability. This chapter applies to all land within the special flood hazard areas and corresponding areas of special flood hazard delineated on the FIRM, as prepared by FEMA. The following special flood hazard areas, as defined in section 16.29.030 , are established: 1. Floodway area (floodway in zone AEF). 2. Flood fringe area (zones AE, AH, AO). 3. Coastal high hazard area (zones V, VE). 4. General floodplain area (zones A, D, V). B. Identification of special flood hazard areas. 1. The flood insurance rate map and flood insurance study effective September 25, 2009, and any subsequent revisions and amendments, are adopted and declared to be part of this section, and will be on file at the department of public works. 2. The special flood hazard areas delineated on the FIRM may be supplemented by additional flood-prone areas, as determined by the director. No map delineating additional flood-prone areas may take effect until the map is adopted by ordinance. The director must publish maps of the modified special flood hazard areas to be kept on file at the department of public works. C. 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 title or chapter of this code, easement, covenant, or deed restriction conflict, the more stringent restrictions prevail. D. Interpretation. All provisions of this chapter must be considered as minimum requirements and liberally construed in favor of the County. This chapter neither limits nor repeals any powers granted under State statute. ( Ord. No. 5798 , § 3, 2025; Ord. No. 5603 , § 3, 2024)