HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOUNCIL - AGENDA ITEM - 04/05/2022 - FIRST READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 039, 2022 AMENDING Agenda Item 10
Item # 10 Page 1
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY April 5, 2022
Utilities-Master Plan & Floodplain Administration
STAFF
Ken Sampley, Director, Stormwater Eng/Devt Review
Marsha Hilmes-Robinson, Floodplain Administrator
Theresa Connor, Utilities Deputy Director
Kendall Minor, Utilities Executive Director
Eric Potyondy, Legal
SUBJECT
First Reading of Ordinance No. 039, 2022 Amending Chapter 10 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins
Regarding Additions and Substantial Improvements in FEMA-Designated Floodplains.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The purpose of this item is to adopt a proposed regulatory change to Chapter 10 of City Code to come into
compliance with minimum regulations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regarding
additions and substantial improvements in FEMA floodplains.
Under the new provision, the applicant will have two choices when proposing to build an addition in a FEMA
floodplain:
1. Design and certify the addition as “structurally independent” and elevate the addition. The cost of the
addition will not be included in the calculation of substantial improvement.
2. Include the addition in the calculation of substantial improvement. The addition will be required to be
elevated. If the value of improvements, including the cost of the addi tion, is more than 50% of the value of
the structure, then the existing structure will be considered substantially improved and will need to be
protected.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends adoption of the Ordinance on First Reading .
BACKGROUND / DISCUSSION
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has determined that certain provisions of the City
Floodplain Management regulations in Article II, Chapter 10 of the City Code do not meet the minimum
requirements of the National Flood Insurance Pr ogram (NFIP). Therefore, the City needs to bring certain
portions of Article II, Chapter 10 of City Code into compliance.
The proposed changes involve how additions are included in the calculation of “substantial improvements” in
FEMA-designated floodplains (Spring Creek, Dry Creek, Boxelder Creek, Cooper Slough and the Poudre
River). In the past, because additions were required to be elevated above the regulatory flood protection
elevation, the City was not requiring the cost of the addition to be inclu ded in the substantial improvement
calculation. However, FEMA has determined this does not meet minimum standards of the NFIP. Only if the
Agenda Item 10
Item # 10 Page 2
addition is considered a “structurally independent addition” can the value of the addition be excluded from the
substantial improvement calculation.
Substantial improvements occur when the cost of improvements is greater than or equal to 50% of the market
value of the structure. The purpose is to bring nonconforming structures into compliance over time. In most
FEMA floodplains there is a one-year “look-back” period for improvements. For the Poudre River floodplain,
the “look-back” period is cumulative over the life of the structure. If a structure is determined to be
substantially improved, then the structure is required to be brought into compliance with Article II, Chapter 10
of City Code which would include the existing structure being elevated (residential) or floodproofed (non -
residential) so that the existing structure is protected from flood damage.
Substantial Improvement: Cost of Improvements
------------------------------------------- ≥ 50%
Market Value of the Structure
Under the new provision, the applicant will have two choices when proposing to build an addition in a FEMA
floodplain:
1. Design and certify the addition as “structurally independent” and elevate the addition. The cost of the
addition will not be included in the calculation of substantial improvement.
2. Include the addition in the calculation of substantial improvement. The addition will be required to be
elevated.
If the value of improvements, including the cost of the addition, is more than 50% of the value of the structure,
then the existing structure will be considered substantially improved and will need to be protected.
New Definition - Structurally Independent Addition - shall mean an addition that involves no alteration of the
load-bearing structure of the existing building, is attached to the building with minimal connection, and has a
doorway as the only modification to the common wall. A nonstructural addition shall not transfer loads exerted
on the addition to the existing building and thus shall not share a foundation or other building elements that
would create a load path between the addition and the existing building. Shared heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning (HVAC), electrical, and plumbing between the addition and existing structure does not result in a
structural connection.
This proposed regulation change does not apply to City-designated floodplains, such as Old Town. FEMA
considers any regulation in City-designated floodplains as a higher standard and therefore Fort Collins can
continue not including the cost of protected (elevated or floodproofed) additions in the calculation of substantial
improvement. Improvements to the existing structure will continue to be included in the calculation of
substantial improvement.
BOARD / COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
On February 17, 2022, the Water Commission unanimously approved a recommendation to Council to adopt
the proposed code language regarding Additions and Substantial Improvements. Minutes are attached .
(Attachment 1)
On February 24, 2022, the Building Commission unanimously approved a recommendation to Council to adopt
the proposed code language regarding Additions and Substantial Improvements. Minutes are attached
(Attachment 2)
Presentations were also made to the Historic Preservation Commission on Feb ruary 9, 2022, and the Planning
and Zoning Commission on February 11, 2022. No action was taken by these Commissions.
Agenda Item 10
Item # 10 Page 3
PUBLIC OUTREACH
A Stakeholder Committee was formed to gather input from both internal and external design professionals that
would be involved in additions and substantial improvements. The committee was used to gather feedback on
the proposed changes. As a result, a new definition for “Structurally-Independent Addition” was developed and
proposed for inclusion in the Code language. No other modifications were recommended. The Committee did
stress that awareness of the new Code provision was important and provided recommendations on which
organizations could assist with sharing the information.
The following outreach was conducted:
• Board of Realtors Newsletter
• Board of Realtors Government Affairs Committee presentation – Feb. 11, 2022
• Fort Collins Building Services Newsletter
• Home Builders Association Newsletter
• Chamber of Commerce Newsletter
ATTACHMENTS
1. Water Commission Minutes (excerpt) (PDF)
2. Building Review Commission Minutes (excerpt) (PDF)
Excerpt from Unapproved DRAFT MINUTES WATER COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
February 17, 2022 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Online via Zoom
02/17/2022 – Excerpt from Unapproved DRAFT MINUTES Page 1
Floodplain Additions and Substantial Improvement Code Change
Marsha Hilmes-Robinson, Civil Engineer III, and Ken Sampley, Director of Stormwater
Engineering and Development Review, presented to conduct outreach related to a
proposed regulatory change to Chapter 10 of City Code to come into compliance with
minimum regulations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
regarding additions and substantial improvements in FEMA floodplains.
Discussion Highlights
A Commissioner inquired if there is any way that a developer may piecemeal a project
to work around the proposed codes to stay below the 50% threshold. Ms. Hilmes-
Robinson responded that there is a time period defined in the City code for both FEMA
and City floodplains, which is a one-year time period during which multiple projects must
be combined. For the Poudre River, it is cumulative over the life of the structure, so it
has a higher standard to minimize impacts. Mr. Sampley added that FEMA does not
add a specified time period to obstruct piecemealing a project, so this language in the
City code is a step further in mitigation. Another Commissioner asked clarification
whether the code changes are required, to which Ms. Hilmes-Robinson responded that
this is not a recommendation but rather a requirement from FEMA, which could result in
probation if City code does not meet its standards, and ultimately expulsion from the
National Flood Insurance Program.
Commissioner Steed moved that the Water Commission recommend City Council
adopt the proposed changes to Chapter 10 of City Code regarding additions and
substantial improvements in FEMA floodplains.
Commissioner Kahn seconded the motion.
A Commissioner commented that the changes seem mostly administrative and does not
introduce any major impacts. Another Commissioner noted that if the changes were
applied to Old Town, there may have been challenges and issues.
Vote on the Motion: it passed unanimously, 7-0
ATTACHMENT 1
Excerpt from Unapproved DRAFT MINUTES BUILDING REVIEW
COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
February 24, 2022 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Online via Zoom
02/24/2022 – Excerpt from Unapproved DRAFT MINUTES Page 1
Floodplain Additions and Substantial Improvement Code Change
Marsha Hilmes-Robinson, Civil Engineer III, presented to conduct outreach related to a
proposed regulatory change to Chapter 10 of City Code to come into compliance with
minimum regulations from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
regarding additions and substantial improvements in FEMA floodplains.
Discussion Highlights
A Commissioner inquired what would happen if the City did not come into compliance
with the FEMA regulations. Ms. Hilmes-Robinson responded FEMA could put the City
on probation from the National Flood Insurance program and ultimately, the City could
be expelled from the program. New buyers of homes in the FEMA floodplain would not
be able to purchase flood insurance, which would likely stop the sale of those
properties. The Commissioner was pleased to see not many homes would be affected
because as a homeowner, he would be concerned if he found out he had to meet all the
requirements. He agreed that standalone additions should certainly be protected as
demonstrated.
Commissioner Steed moved the Building Review Commission recommend City
Council adopt the proposed changes to Chapter 10 of City Code regarding additions
and substantial improvements in FEMA floodplains.
Commissioner Richards seconded the motion.
The Chair commented the requirements in the proposed Code Change were better than
the alternative, which was to tear out houses and clear the floodplain. Some
communities have had to consider that, because if a house was flooded out, it could not
be rebuilt.
Vote on the Motion: it passed unanimously, 4-0
ATTACHMENT 2
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ORDINANCE NO. 039, 2022
OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
AMENDING CHAPTER 10 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS
REGARDING ADDITIONS AND SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENTS IN
FEMA-DESIGNATED FLOODPLAINS
WHEREAS, the City administers a floodplain management program as set forth in
Article II, Chapter 10 of the Fort Collins Municipal Code (“City Code”); and
WHEREAS, representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”)
have indicated that certain provisions of Article II, Chapter 10 of City Code do not meet the
minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program; and
WHEREAS, the subject provisions concern how additions are included in the calculation
of “substantial improvements” in FEMA-designated floodplains, those associated with
Spring Creek, Dry Creek, Boxelder Creek, Cooper Slough, and the Cache la Poudre River; and
WHEREAS, City staff has recommended that appropriate changes be made to Article II,
Chapter 10 of City Code to meet the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance
Program, which will also promote the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Fort Collins;
and
WHEREAS, the Water Commission and the Building Review Commission, on February
17, 2022, and February 24, 2022, respectively, have each unimously approved a recommendation
to City Council to adopt the appropriate changes to Article II, Chapter 10 of City Code as set
forth below.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
FORT COLLINS as follows:
Section 1. That the City Council hereby makes and adopts the determinations and
findings contained in the recitals set forth above.
Section 2. That Section 10-16 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-16. Definitions.
. . .
Cumulative substantial improvement shall mean any combination of repairs, demolition,
reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvements of a structure taking place during
the time the structure has been located in a designated floodplain, the cumulative cost of which
equals or exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market value of the structure before the start of
construction of the improvement, provided that the footprint of the structure is not increased. The
term cumulative substantial improvement shall include any repair or reconstruction work on
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structures that have incurred substantial damage. It shall not include any project for improvement
of a structure to correct violations of state or local health, sanitary or safety code specifications
that have been identified by the local code enforcement official, including only the minimum
improvements necessary to assure safe living conditions. Cumulative substantial improvement
shall not include the cost of any structurally independent addition. Also, cumulative substantial
improvement shall not include ordinary maintenance activities, such as interior or exterior
painting or decoration, replacement of windows, doors or other nonstructural elements, repair or
replacement of heating or air conditioning appliances or hot water heaters, reroofing, and utility
connections, provided that such improvements shall not be excluded from the overall work when
carried out in connection with structural improvements.
. . .
Structurally independent add ition shall mean an addition that involves no alteration of the load-
bearing structure of the existing building, is attached to the building with minimal connection,
and has a doorway as the only modification to the common wall. A structurally independent
addition shall not transfer loads exerted on the addition to the existing building and thus shall not
share a foundation or other building elements that would create a load path between the addition
and the existing building. Shared heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), electrical,
and plumbing between the addition and existing structure does not result in a structural
connection.
. . .
Substantial improvement shall mean any combination of repairs, demolition, reconstruction,
rehabilitation, addition, or other improvements of a structure for which the actual start of
construction occurred during the twelve-month period preceding the floodplain use permit
application date, the cumulative cost of which equals or exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market
value of the structure before the start of construction of the improvement, provided that the
footprint of the structure is not increased. Substantial improvement shall include any repair or
reconstruction work performed within said period of time on structures that have incurred
substantial damage. A substantial improvement that meets the definition of redevelopment shall
be regulated hereunder as redevelopment. The term substantial improvement shall not include
any project for improvement of a structure to correct violations of state or local health, sanitary
or safety code specifications that have been identified by the local code enforcement official,
including only the minimum improvements necessary to assure safe living conditions.
Substantial improvement shall not include the cost of any structurally independent addition and
in City basin floodplains shall also not include the cost of any addition that meets the regulatory
flood protection standard set forth in Section 10-37. Also, substantial improvement shall not
include ordinary maintenance activities, such as interior or exterior painting or decoration,
replacement of windows, doors or other nonstructural elements, repair or replacement of heating
or air conditioning appliances or hot water heaters, reroofing and utility connections, provided
that such improvements shall not be excluded from the overall work when carried out in
connection with structural improvements.
. . .
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Section 3. That Section 10-26 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended by the addition of a new subparagraph (6) which reads in its entirety as follows and all
subsequent subparagraphs shall be renumbered accordingly:
Sec. 10-26. - Utilities executive director's powers and duties.
The duties and responsibilities of the Utilities Executive Director shall include but are not
limited to:
. . .
(6) Require certification by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or
architect that any addition proposed as a structurally independent addition meets the
definitions and requirements of this Chapter.
. . .
Section 4. That Section 10-27(b) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-27. - Floodplain use permit.
. . .
(b) The following information is specifically required and must be submitted by any
floodplain permit applicant:
. . .
(4) Certification by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect that
any addition proposed as a structurally independent addition: (1) involves no alteration
of the load-bearing structure of the existing building; (2) is attached to the existing
building with minimal connection; (3) has a doorway as the only modification to the
common wall; and (4) will not transfer loads exerted on the addition to the existing
building and will thus not share a foundation or other building elements that would create
a load path between the addition and the existing building.
(45) Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as
a result of proposed development.
Section 5. That Section 10-75(7) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended by the addition of a new subparagraph b. which reads in its entirety as follows and all
subsequent subparagraphs shall be renumbered accordingly:
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Sec. 10-75. - Specific standards for residential development in Poudre River flood fringe.
. . .
(7) Accessory structures.
. . .
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
. . .
Section 6. That Section 10-76 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-76. - Specific standards for nonresidential development in Poudre River flood
fringe.
. . .
(2) Additions.
a. Addition to a nonresidential structure is allowed, provided that all appliable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are
met.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. For an addition to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
cd. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an addition to a nonresidential structure, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-38, are met.
. . .
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(6) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a nonresidential structure is allowed,
provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the
requirements of § 10-37, are met by the attached garage.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. For a garage attached to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
(7) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. Remodeling or repair of an accessory structure, including reconstruction of an
accessory structure that has been substantially damaged, is allowed, provided
that, after completion of any cumulative substantial improvement, all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
cd. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
de. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
ef. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an accessory structure, provided that all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
fg. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
cumulative substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable
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requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are
met.
. . .
Section 7. That Section 10-77 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-77. - Specific standards for mixed-use development in Poudre River flood fringe.
. . .
(2) Additions.
a. An addition to a mixed-use structure is prohibited, except that an addition to a
mixed use structure that results in expansion of only non-residential floors of
said structure is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including,
but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. For an addition to a mixed-use structure, compliance with the requirements of
§ 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the applicable requirement of
Subsection 10-37(b).
cd. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an addition to a mixed-use structure, provided that:
1. All residential use is on a floor completely above the regulatory flood
protection elevation; and
2. All applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
(5) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a mixed-use structure is allowed, provided
that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-37, are met by the attached garage.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. For a garage attached to a mixed-use structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
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(6) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado
registered professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally
independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included in the
determination of cumulative substantial improvement.
bc. Remodeling or repair of an accessory structure, including reconstruction of an
accessory structure that has been substantially damaged, is allowed, provided
that, after completion of any cumulative substantial improvement, all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
cd. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
de. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
ef. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an accessory structure, provided that all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
fg. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
cumulative substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are
met.
Section 8. That Section 10-80(b)(1) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended by the addition of a new subparagraph e. which reads in its entirety as follows and all
subsequent subparagraphs shall be renumbered accordingly:
Sec. 10-80. - Removal of property from Poudre River flood fringe.
. . .
(b) LOMR-F. Property located in the flood fringe of the Poudre River shall be considered
removed from the flood fringe if a FEMA Letter of Map Revision based on Fill (LOMR-
F) removing the property from the flood fringe based on fill has been issued by FEMA
and remains in effect.
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(1) LOMR-F Review and Approval. The Utilities Executive Director shall review any
application for a LOMR-F removing property from the flood fringe, and the
following conditions shall apply to any LOMR-F certified by the City as reasonably
safe from flooding:
. . .
e. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado registered
professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally independent addition
or the value of the addition shall be included in the determination of cumulative
substantial improvement.
. . .
Section 9. That Section 10-102 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-102. - Specific standards for residential development in floodways.
. . .
(6) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a residential structure is allowed, provided
that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are met by the garage portion of
the structure.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10-37.
bd. For a garage attached to a residential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10 -39 may be substituted
for compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10 -37(b).
(7) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are
met by the accessory structure.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
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being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth i n §10-37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in any accessory structure.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
Section 9. That Section 10-103 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-103. - Specific standards for nonresidential development in floodways.
. . .
(2) Addition.
a. Addition to a nonresidential structure is allowed, provided that all applicable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-45 and
the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
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bd. For an addition to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
ce. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an addition to a nonresidential structure.
. . .
(6) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a nonresidential structure is allowed,
provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the
requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are met by the
attached garage.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in § 10 -37.
bd. For a garage attached to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of §10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
(7) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are
met by the accessory structure.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
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df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in any accessory structure.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
Section 10. That Section 10-104 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-104. - Specific standards for mixed-use development in floodways.
. . .
(2) Addition.
a. Addition to a mixed-use structure for residential use is prohibited.
b. Addition to the nonresidential use portions of a mixed-use structure is
allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to,
the requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
c. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as being
a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be included
in the determination of substantial improvement.
d. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in
the determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in § 10 -37.
ce. For an addition to a mixed -use structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the applicable
requirements of Subsection 10 -37(b).
df. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood
protection elev ation in an addition to a mixed -use structure.
. . .
(5) Attached garages.
a. Addition of a new attached garage to a mixed-use structure is allowed,
provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the
requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are met by the
attached garage.
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b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets t he
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. For a garage attached to a mixed-use structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10 -39 may be substituted
for compliance with the applicable requirement s of Section 10-37(b).
(6) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-45 and the requirements of § 10-37, are
met by the accessory structure.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in § 10 -37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in any accessory structure.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
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Section 11. That Section 10-108 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-108. - Specific standards for residential development in flood fringe.
. . .
(2) Additions.
a. An addition to a residential structure is allowed, provided that all applicable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are
met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in Section 10 -37.
bd. No new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood prot ection
elevation in any addition to a residential structure.
. . .
(6) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a residential structure is allowed, provided
that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-37, are met by the attached garage.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in Section 10 -37.
bd. For a garage attached to a residential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
(7) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
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b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an accessory structure, provided that all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
Section 12. That Section 10-109 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-109. - Specific standards for nonresidential development in flood fringe.
. . .
(2) Additions.
a. Addition to a nonresidential structure is allowed, provided that all applicable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are
met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in Section 10 -37.
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bd. For an addition to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
ce. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an addition to a nonresidential structure, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-38, are met.
. . .
(6) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a nonresidential structure is allowed,
provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the
requirements of § 10-37, are met by the attached garage.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in t he
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. For a garage attached to a nonresidential structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
(7) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
-16-
df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an accessory structure, provided that all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
Section 13. That Section 10-110 of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-110. - Specific standards for mixed-use development in flood fringe.
. . .
(2) Additions.
a. Addition to a mixed-use structure is allowed, provided that all applicable
requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are
met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. For an addition to a mixed-use structure, in the event that all residential use is
on a floor completely above the regulatory flood protection elevation,
compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
ce. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an addition to a mixed-use structure, provided that:
1. All residential use is on a floor completely above the regulatory flood
protection elevation; and
2. All applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-38, are met.
. . .
-17-
(5) Attached garages.
a. Addition of an attached garage to a mixed-use structure is allowed, provided
that all applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements
of § 10-37, are met by the attached garage.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in §10 -37.
bd. For a garage attached to a mixed-use structure, compliance with the
requirements of § 10-38 or the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for
compliance with the applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
(6) Accessory structures.
a. Construction of a new accessory structure or addition to an accessory structure
is allowed, provided that all applicable requirements, including, but not
limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
b. In FEMA basin floodplains, any new addition must either be designed and
certified by a Colorado registered professional engineer and/or architect as
being a structurally independent addition or the value of the addition shall be
included in the determination of substantial improvement.
c. In City basin floodplains, the value of the addition shall not be included in the
determination of substantial improvement so long as the addition meets the
regulatory flood protection standard set forth in § 10 -37.
bd. Remodeling and repair of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that,
after completion of any substantial improvement, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, are met.
ce. Redevelopment of an accessory structure is allowed, provided that all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-37, are met.
df. For an accessory structure, compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 or
the requirements of § 10-39 may be substituted for compliance with the
applicable requirements of Subsection 10-37(b).
eg. A new basement may be constructed below the regulatory flood protection
elevation in an accessory structure, provided that all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
fh. A nonconforming basement below the regulatory flood protection elevation
may remain in an accessory structure, provided that, after completion of any
substantial improvement or redevelopment, all applicable requirements,
including, but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-38, are met.
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. . .
Section 14. That Section 10-113(b) of the Code of the City of Fort Collins is hereby
amended to read as follows:
Sec. 10-113. Removal of property from flood fringe of FEMA basin floodplains.
. . .
(b) LOMR-F. Property located in the flood fringe of a FEMA basin floodplain shall be
considered removed from the flood fringe if a FEMA Letter of Map Revision based on
Fill (LOMR-F) removing the property from the flood fringe has been issued by FEMA
and remains in effect.
(1) LOMR-F Review and Approval. The Utilities Executive Director shall review any
application for a LOMR-F removing property from the flood fringe based on fill, and
the following conditions shall apply to any LOMR-F certified by the City as
reasonably safe from flooding:
a. A floodplain use permit shall be obtained for any development in a LOMR-F area.
b. Any new structure, accessory structure, attached garage, or addition, substantial
improvement or redevelopment must meet all applicable requirements, including,
but not limited to, the requirements of § 10-37, except that for nonresidential
structures and mixed-use structures with all residential use on a floor completely
above the regulatory flood protection elevation, compliance with the requirements
of § 10-38 may be substituted for compliance with the applicable requirements of
Subsection 10-37(b).
c. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado registered
professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally independent addition
or the value of the addition shall be included in the determination of substantial
improvement.
cd. Critical facilities and expansions of critical facilities are prohibited.
de. Manufactured homes and mobile buildings other than a nonconforming
manufactured home or mobile building are prohibited, except that:
1. A manufactured home or mobile building may be replaced, provided that the
replacement manufactured home or mobile building complies with all
applicable requirements, including, but not limited to, the requirements of §
10-41.
2. Manufactured home parks and mobile building developments, other than
nonconforming manufactured home parks and mobile building developments,
are prohibited.
3. Expansion of a manufactured home park or a mobile building development is
prohibited.
-19-
(2) Unconditional or Annexed LOMR-F Approvals. For any development in an area
removed from the flood fringe through a LOMR-F that did not include the conditions
described in Paragraph (b)(1), or that was approved prior to annexation to the City,
the development must meet all requirements of Paragraph (b)(1) in addition to
meeting all conditions of the LOMR-F approval, except that, for properties annexed
to the city prior to January 1, 2014, only the following shall apply:
a. The development must meet all conditions of the LOMR-F approval; and
b. For any new structure, accessory structure, attached garage or addition,
substantial improvement or redevelopment, the development must also meet
requirements of § 10-37, except that:
1. The applicable flood protection elevation required shall be twelve (12) inches
above the base flood elevation, regardless of the elevation level stated in § 10 -
37; and
2. For nonresidential structures and mixed-use structures with all residential use
on a floor completely above the regulatory flood protection elevation,
compliance with the requirements of § 10-38 may be substituted for
compliance with the elevation requirement in Subparagraph (b)(2)b.1.
c. Any new addition must either be designed and certified by a Colorado registered
professional engineer and/or architect as being a structurally independent addition
or the value of the addition shall be included in the determination of substantial
improvement.
Introduced, considered favorably on first reading, and ordered published this 5th day of
April, A.D. 2021, and to be presented for final passage on the 19th day of April, A.D. 2022.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk
Passed and adopted on final reading on this 19th day of April, A.D. 2022.
__________________________________
Mayor
ATTEST:
_____________________________
City Clerk