Promoting Flood Resiliency Through the Regulatory Process
Zoning Practice — April 2012
By Terri Turner, AICP
One in three disaster declarations is a result of flooding, and an increase in population, increased development in flood-prone areas, and a predicted increase in intensified rain events due to climate change will only exacerbate those numbers. Flood resiliency can be defined as the integration of roles, responsibilities, and governance necessary to adapt to the various risks associated with flooding and the ability to withstand and rapidly recover from disruptions in function after a flood event.
The regulatory process is an essential tool in the arsenal of fighting floods and promoting flood resiliency. Zoning, building codes, and other regulatory measures can ensure that fewer vulnerable structures are built in flood-prone areas, fewer lives are put at risk, and fewer losses, to both property and people, are incurred due to unwise development patterns.
This issue of Zoning Practice explains key features of floodplain management ordinances and highlights examples of noteworthy efforts to minimize flood risk through development regulations.
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About the Author
Terri Turner, AICP