(a)

1. (1) While it is strongly desirable to prohibit development within the floodplain, the Building Authority Division recognizes that there are beneficial developments that, when constructed properly, can provide vital public spaces while minimizing the potential for damage or loss due to flooding.
2. (2) Departments are encouraged to reserve the floodplain for these uses to the maximum extent possible.

(b)

1. (1) When possible, floodplains at a department site or campus should be reserved for their natural purpose.
2. (2) Leave floodplains in their natural state as wildlife or bird habitats.
3. (3) Departments shall maintain the floodplain and floodway in a manner that will reduce or minimize the accumulation of debris in the floodwaters which may inhibit or restrict the free flow of the waters.
4. (4) When clearing or landscaping of a floodplain is necessary to reduce fire hazards for safety and security or to enhance the scenic view from a building or gathering point, the area located within the boundaries of the floodplain should be left as a green belt or space.
5. (5) Erosion control measures shall be implemented to ensure that flood events do not create erosion or unacceptable levels of sediment transportation.

(c)

1. (1) Development of walking, biking, and riding trails within the floodplain, particularly along the stream or river, are encouraged to allow the public to experience the beauty of these natural features.

2. (2) Amphitheaters and gazebos may be constructed within the floodplain provided that they are:

   1. (A) Securely anchored to prevent floatation or collapse; and
   2. (B) Constructed of materials to resist flood damage.
3. (3) Departments should emphasize the purpose of the floodplain and floodway through the use of informational and interpretive signs and exhibits.

(d)

1. (1) Sports fields and playgrounds may be constructed within the floodplain.
2. (2) Equipment installed must be properly anchored and constructed of materials that resist flood damage.
3. (3) Bleachers and stands may also be installed provided that they are properly anchored to prevent flotation or collapse and allow the free flow of floodwater through the structure.
4. (4) Concession stands that are enclosed on four (4) sides must be elevated above the base flood elevation in accordance with 22 CAR § 111-707.

(e)

1. (1) Parking lots may be constructed within the floodplain provided no overnight parking is allowed at the site.
2. (2) Parking lot lighting must be installed on an elevated concrete pedestal with the handhole installed above the base flood elevation.
3. (3) All wiring shall be installed to prevent the entry of water into the conduit system.
4. (4) The electrical disconnect serving the lighting circuits must be installed above the base flood elevation and preferably outside the floodplain.
5. (5) Consideration to the anticipated velocity of floodwaters shall be considered in the selection of the paving system to minimize the loss of paving during a flood event.
6. (6) Provide adequate signage indicating that part or all of the parking is located in a known floodplain and that flooding may occur without warning during periods of heavy rainfall.
7. (7) Layout and location of signage must be included in the review submittal to the Design Review Section.

(f) Campsites and recreational vehicle parking may be constructed within a floodplain provided that the following conditions are met:

1. (1)

   1. (A) Campsites may be constructed with permanent tent pads and accessories such as grilles, seating, fire rings, and similar appurtenances.
   2. (B) Campsites may be suitable for tents or pull-along campers only.
   3. (C) Tents and pull-along campers:

(i) Shall be on site no more than seven (7) consecutive days; and

1. (ii) Must be suitable for strike-down within less than one (1) hour.

   1. (D) No permanent cabins, lodges, or similar structures are allowed unless the lowest floor level is elevated above the base flood elevation in accordance with 22 CAR § 111-708;

2. (2)

   1. (A) Recreational vehicles shall be on the site for fewer than one hundred eighty (180) consecutive days and must be fully licensed and ready for highway use.

   2. (B) A recreational vehicle is considered ready for highway use if it:

      1. (i) Is on its wheels or jacking system;
      2. (ii) Is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices; and
      3. (iii) Has no permanently attached additions.
   3. (C) Vehicles not meeting these requirements must be installed to meet the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes;

3. (3)

   1. (A) Where overnight camping is allowed within a floodplain, the department shall have a written formal emergency plan for staff use in the notification of campers and the evacuation of the affected campsites.

   2. (B) The department shall:

      1. (i) Install signage at each campsite advising the camper that the site is located with a known flood hazard area; and
      2. (ii) Provide a clearly designated evacuation route to a safe location.

   3. (C) Signage shall clearly mark the:

      1. (i) Evacuation route; and
      2. (ii) Area of refuge.

   4. (D) When campers check in at the campground, the department shall provide:

      1. (i) Printed instructions on the evacuation procedures during flooding; and
      2. (ii) The campers with a map showing the:

(b) (b) Signage; and

1. (c) (c) Area of refuge.

   1. (E) Sign design and locations shall be indicated on plans and submitted for review;

2. (4)

   1. (A) Departments should also post warning signs at all locations within its property that may be subject to flash flooding regardless of whether the area is located in a known floodplain.

   2. (B) Signage should advise that:

      1. (i) The area is known to be subject to flash flooding during heavy rains; and
      2. (ii) Caution is advised during rainy weather.
   3. (C) The signage should also provide directions to the closest exit from the flood-prone area; and

3. (5)

   1. (A) Campsites and recreational vehicle parking may be provided with utility hook-ups such as electricity, water, and sewer provided that these utilities are designed to prevent the entry of floodwaters into the piping systems.

   2. (B) Electrical connections within the floodplain area shall:

      1. (i) Have a disconnecting means located outside the floodplain or at an elevation above the base flood elevation; and
      2. (ii) Be accessible by the campground operators to disconnect power during flood events.

(g)

1. (1) Telecommunication towers, utility poles or towers, underground utilities, and similar facilities may be constructed in the floodplain provided that facilities:

   1. (A) Are designed to resist collapse due to floodwaters;
   2. (B) Are properly anchored; and
   3. (C) Permit the free flow of water in and around the structures.
2. (2) For utility service lines such as water, sewer, gas, electric, and similar, the piping system shall be designed to prevent the entry of floodwater.