REPORT TO THE CITY COUNCIL
FROM: JENNIFER K. CLARK, AICP, Director
Planning and Development Department
ASHLEY ATKINSON, AICP, Assistant Director
Planning and Development Department
BY: ERIC FRAMPTON, Chief Building Official
Planning and Development Department
SUBJECT
Title
Actions relating to repealing and reenacting Building Regulations in the Fresno Municipal Code
1. BILL - (For introduction) Related to Local Climatic Topographical and Geological Conditions Repealing Article 6 Section 11-627 and Reenacting Article 6 Section 11-627 of the Fresno Municipal Code
Body
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that Council consider the adoption of the Bill and Ordinance related to local climatic topographical and geological conditions repealing Article 6 Section 11-627 and reenacting Article 6 Section 11-627 of the Fresno Municipal Code as it relates to residential construction.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Fresno Municipal Code (FMC) Article 6 currently regulates development in floodplain areas. However, Section 11-627 permits residential construction to be elevated only six inches above the base flood elevation (BFE), which falls short of current standards. Both FEMA regulations and the California Residential Code (Section R322.2.1) require a minimum elevation of one foot above the Base Flood Elevation. Updating the FMC to align with these requirements will enhance flood protection in Special Flood Hazard Areas and ensure the City remains compliant with state and federal regulations.
BACKGROUND
The Legislature of the State of California, through Government Code Sections 65302, 65560, and 65800, has empowered local governments to adopt regulations that promote public health, safety, and general welfare. In alignment with this legislative mandate, the City of Fresno is required to implement and enforce floodplain management regulations to reduce the risk of loss of life, property damage, health hazards, and disruption of essential services res...
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