Are there any restrictions for construction for homes adjacent to the 100-year flood plain?

The MWRD’s WMO requires that new home construction and/or substantial improvements to existing homes need to prove, by means of a certified topographic survey, prepared by either an Illinois Registered Land Surveyor or Professional Engineer, that the existing/new home and/or improvements are above the BFE by at least 0.10 feet.  

 Regardless, if you are considering constructing a new home that is within 100’ of the BFE, the following design criteria must be met:

  • The top of foundation (and any opening in those foundations) must be at or above the FPE.  
  • It must also be demonstrated that the building and foundation below the BFE are reasonably safe from flooding, per design standard requirements in FEMA Technical Bulletin 10-01, and the Village’s Flood Hazard Protection Ordinance, Section 15.68.050.G.   

These requirements include:

  • Providing integrally cast window wells with the foundation wall;
  • Maintaining the top of foundation at a minimum elevation of the FPE; 
  • The foundation must be constructed of poured concrete without seams/joints; 
  • All attendant utilities, including the air conditioning units must be set to at least the FPE; and 
  • The foundation elements must be designed and certified to withstand any applied hydrostatic pressures. 

Show All Answers

1. What is the 100-year flood plain?
2. What regulations must be followed for construction within and adjacent to the flood plain?
3. What is the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)?
4. What is the Flood Protection Elevation (FPE)?
5. When is my house considered in the flood plain?
6. My property was never in the flood plain before, why is it in the flood plain now?
7. When do I need to buy flood insurance?
8. Can I build in the flood plain?
9. Are there any restrictions for construction for homes adjacent to the 100-year flood plain?
10. What are the criteria for being able to construct a new home with a basement in the 100-year flood plain?
11. Can I make improvements to my existing home in the flood plain?
12. What is compensatory storage?
13. How can I find out if my property is located within the flood plain?