Proposed flood ordinance would raise freeboard, require elevation certificates before construction

The draft flood damage prevention ordinance was presented as largely based on the state's model ordinance and federal requirements; consultants said the draft had been reviewed by the state and includes optional, higher standards. A key substantive change is a proposed freeboard increase — raising required freeboard from 1 to 2 feet in mapped areas and from 2 to 3 feet where no base flood elevation is available. The consultant emphasized potential benefits including lower flood insurance premiums and reduced repetitive loss exposure.

The draft would require an elevation certificate prior to the start of new construction and require registered engineers or architects to certify that floodproofing meets required standards. Commissioners asked whether the town should adopt the flood provisions before the new coastal A zones are mapped (the consultant noted maps expected February 2027) or hold the flood ordinance as a standalone to be adopted before the maps take effect. Several commissioners asked staff to provide a fiscal analysis showing cost impacts to homeowners and potential insurance benefits before the board makes a decision.