Edina proposes floodplain, stormwater code updates to codify local flood‑risk policy

City waterresources staff presented proposed amendments to Edina’s floodplain and stormwater ordinances at the Sept. 16 council meeting, saying the changes would codify steps the city has applied since adoption of its Flood Risk Reduction Strategy and align local rules with a recent state model ordinance. What staff proposed Water Resources Manager Jessica Wilson told the council the update creates a local flood area district that extends beyond the older regional floodplain mapping, using more detailed local topography, updated precipitation data and the city’s interactive water‑resources map. Key elements in the draft ordinance include: - Minimum low‑opening and low‑floor elevation standards for new development in local flood areas and for structures adjacent to basins and in “landlocked” basins (areas without natural outlets that are vulnerable to prolonged high water). - Guidance for below‑grade parking and below‑grade garages outside R‑1 and R‑2 residential zones; the ordinance would require flood‑resilient construction or limited uses for such spaces where flood risk is high. - A “no adverse impact” standard and an option for site‑specific tradeoffs in the local flood area where applicants can propose alternative measures that achieve a net reduction in flood risk. - Incorporation of a recent Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) panel approved by FEMA and alignment with the state flood‑model ordinance published in 2022. Stormwater ordinance Wilson said the companion stormwater ordinance moves stormwater technical requirements from Chapter 10 to Chapter 36, clarifies when stormwater management plans are required (including for ADUs and additions), and establishes long‑term maintenance assurance for control measures the city requires. The change makes the city’s practice — which staff have applied since 2016 — compatible with code language. Public comment and council action Resident Nora Davis, who described personal experience during Edina’s 1987 flooding and years of neighborhood advocacy, told the council she strongly supports the code changes. The council left both public hearings open until noon on Sept. 28 and continued action to the Oct. 7 meeting to allow additional review and comment. Why this matters The changes aim to reduce repeated flood losses and establish predictable technical standards for property owners and developers, including minimum elevations and perpetual maintenance requirements for stormwater controls. City staff said the ordinance will apply most stringent rules in regional flood areas while allowing locally tailored solutions in smaller local flood areas where a net risk reduction can be shown.