FLOOD INFORMATION SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVMENT/ DAMAGE REQUIREMENTS The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and Baldwin County Building Inspection Department requires that if the cost of reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvements to a building equals or exceeds 50% of the market value, then the building must meet the same construction requirements as a new building. The permits required for construction ensure that buildings are in compliance with the NFIP and Baldwin County Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Contact the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at (251) 972-6837 to obtain additional information on the 50% rule and a copy of the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
FLOOD PROTECTION MEASURES
natural resource education; and many other functions. Damaging or destroying wetlands threatens public safety and the general welfare. It is therefore necessary for Baldwin County to ensure maximum protection for wetlands by discouraging development activities that may adversely affect wetlands. Baldwin County regulates stormwater management policies through the Subdivision Regulations Department for all new developments. Developments that produce an increase in the amount of stormwater runoff are required to construct stormwater management facilities. Baldwin County has provisions that impose requirements on persons engaged in land disturbing activities that require planning and implementation of effective sedimentation controls for individual lots and subdivision development sites. For more information regarding erosion, sedimentation or stormwater management requirements for new developments, contact the Baldwin County Planning & Zoning Department at (251) 580-1655 or the Subdivision Permitting Department at (251) 937-0278.
Every year, flooding causes more property damage in the United States than any other type of natural disaster. While recent construction practices and regulations have made new homes less prone to flooding, many existing structures remain susceptible. Throughout the country there is a growing interest from property owners to develop practical and cost-effective methods for reducing or eliminating exposure to flooding. There are many ways you can help protect your property and your possessions from flood damage. Property protection measures publications and assistance is available to you by contacting the Baldwin County Building Inspection Department at (251) 972-6837 or by visiting your local libraries. You may also visit the FEMA website at www.fema. gov/.
MAP OF THE LOCAL FLOOD HAZARD
NATURAL AND BENEFICIAL FUNCTIONS
FLOOD HAZARD
The wetlands within Baldwin County are indispensable and f ragile natural resources with signif icant development constraints due to flooding, erosion and soil limitations. In their natural state, wetlands serve man and nature. They provide habitat areas for f ish, wildlife and vegetation; water quality maintenance and pollution control; flood control; erosion control;
The Baldwin County Inspection Department maintains Federal Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). These maps are available for public inspection during normal business hours. They may also be viewed at your local library. Upon written request, you may obtain a Flood Determination of your property as it relates to a local flood hazard area by contacting the Baldwin County Building Department at (251) 972-6837. Copies of Elevation Certif icates can also be obtained at this off ice.
Baldwin County is virtually surrounded by water, with the exception of several miles in the extreme northeast bordering Escambia County, with numerous bays, rivers, streams and tributaries within the interior portions of the county. Baldwin County faces its greatest threat of flooding f rom hurricanes and tropical storms, but coastal flooding can occur year-round. These storms can destroy many properties and A publication of Gulf Coast Media • 23
