Big Changes in Bay County Flood Zones

BAY COUNTY, FL - In a move to enhance flood risk management, the Board of County Commissioners of Bay County, Florida, has passed an ordinance amending the Bay County Code of Ordinances.

The changes are aimed at aligning local regulations with the latest Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) policies and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements.

The amendments, which will be announced in a public hearing on August 16, 2024, are designed to protect property owners and occupants of manufactured homes in flood-prone areas. “Any building permits that come in from Aug. 16 forward will be regulated by these new flood maps,” Bay County Planning Manager Wayne Porter said.

They also ensure that Bay County maintains its current rating in the NFIP's Community Rating System (CRS), which ensures a premium discount for residents. The Board of Commissioners say that these changes will be in effect no later than October 24th, 2024.

Changes include stricter criteria for accessory structures in flood hazard areas, specific elevation requirements for manufactured homes, and a one-foot freeboard requirement above the base flood elevation for all buildings and structures.

To comply with the new regulations, the county has updated its floodplain management ordinance. It now requires that all new manufactured homes and replacements must be installed on permanent, reinforced foundations. Also, the ordinance prohibits the installation of new manufactured homes in floodways and coastal high hazard areas.

Bay County's participation in the NFIP's CRS, which encourages community floodplain management activities, has resulted in a Class 5 rating. This rating is contingent upon the county's ability to maintain specific floodplain management standards, including the elevation of manufactured homes in flood hazard areas.

The ordinance also addresses the design and construction of buildings and structures in flood hazard areas, with a focus on minimizing flood damage and keeping the public safe.

The ordinance includes a fiscal impact statement, noting that the cost implications of the amendments are minimal, as the existing floodplain management ordinance demanded similar requirements.

However, for the individual, it is hard to say how these new flood maps may affect their insurance rates. These changes may have little impact on the county’s finances, but some individuals may experience increased insurance rates as a result. “We could not say how this may impact individuals’ flood insurance rates, and folks will need to call their provider to get more information,” Porter said.

In summary, the new ordinance represents a proactive approach by Bay County to improve floodplain management and safeguard residents and property against the risks posed by flooding.

The changes are expected to reduce long-term flood damage and support the community's ongoing efforts to maintain a favorable CRS rating, ultimately benefiting residents through reduced flood insurance premiums.