What is the recommended action if an applicant's site plan shows the ground is higher than the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?

When an applicant's site plan indicates that the ground level is higher than the Base Flood Elevation (BFE), the recommended action is to encourage flood protection measures. This approach recognizes that while the current elevation may provide some degree of protection, it is still prudent to take additional precautions to enhance safety against potential flooding.

Flooding can be unpredictable, and even areas above the BFE can experience flood risks due to various factors such as changes in weather patterns, storm surges, or increased rainfall. Encouraging flood protection measures helps ensure that the development can withstand unforeseen circumstances and minimizes future flood damages. This may include measures such as elevating structures further, improving drainage systems, or creating barriers to redirect floodwaters.

Promoting best practices and compliance with floodplain management requirements not only helps safeguard the development but also supports the overall community's resilience to flooding events. This proactive stance aligns with the objectives of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which aims to reduce flood damage and promote sound floodplain management.