Interpretation #7547
Published August 01, 2015
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2010
- Code
- RESIDENT
- Code Description
- Residential
- Chapter
- 3
- Section
- R322
- Topic
- BFE and freeboard
Question
Is it the intent of R322 to require single family residences to be elevated 1 ft above the BFE as defined on the jurisdictions FIRM maps?
Answer Published 08/01/2015 at 2:47 PM
Yes, if it is in a floodway. 322.1 exception
states "Buildings or structures located in whole or
part in identified floodways shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with ASCE 24."
states "Buildings or structures located in whole or
part in identified floodways shall be designed and
constructed in accordance with ASCE 24."
Commentary
The design is required to comply with ASCE 24 provided the
structure is in an identified floodway. (s.R301.2.4,
s.R322.1) However, the question indicates all SFRs and does
not specify a flood zone category or that the structure is
in a floodway. The additional 1 foot elevation may not
always be required by the code except in Coastal A Zones. In
Coastal A Zones, the lowest floor is required by the code to
be elevated to or above the BFE plus one foot or to the
design elevation, whichever is higher. In flood hazard areas
not designated as Coastal A Zones, the floor is required to
be elevated to or above the design flood elevation. Local
flood
ordinances may also require additional elevation.