Floodplain's that are left open can provide storage for floodwaters to minimize future flood damage.
This would include elevation to or above the base flood elevation plus 1-foot.įloodplain's can be a valuable resource for the city. Substantial Damage means damage to a building by any origin (not just flood), whereby the cost of restoring the building to its before-damage condition would equal or exceed 50% of the value of the building before the damage occurred.īuildings that are substantially improved or repaired due to substantial damage must meet the requirements of new construction specified in our Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance.
This means you must obtain a permit before you build, alter, regrade or fill on your property.Ĭontact the office of Permits and Inspections at 31 for building code and permit requirements or to report illegal development.Īny reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvement to a building, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the building before the start of the improvement. Also, avoid dumping debris, grass clippings, etc., into drainage ditches and catch basins.Ĭall the Department of Public Works, 31, for information concerning this program.Īny development in the SFHA requires a permit.
Major drainage channels, ditches and structures are periodically checked and maintained so that stoppage is minimized and the systems are allowed to flow freely.Ĭitizens can greatly assist in this effort by keeping catch basins in front of their property free of debris. The Department of Public Works has initiated a program of drainage system maintenance. The main branch of the library is at:Ĭontact the office of Permits and Inspections for building code and permit requirements, phone 741-8571. Also, publications are available on flood insurance, flood protection, and floodplain management.
Information on retrofitting is available at the main branch of the Bossier Parish Library. Some permanent retrofitting methods are: elevation the structure, building flood walls and enclosures and protecting utilities. Permanent flood-proofing measures for flood prone structures are preferable to those that are temporary. Sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber can be used to temporarily protect property. There are preventive measures that can be taken to minimize or eliminate the potential for flood damage to an existing building. The insurance agent or broker should be notified immediately of any flood damage. Once flood insurance has been purchased, an itemized list of furnishings, clothing and other valuables should be kept in a safe place. An insurance agent can assist in determining the amount of coverage required. If FEMA flood maps show that a property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA), which include all A and V zones, flood insurance is required by law to obtain federally secured financing to buy, build or improve a structure on that property. This coverage is available as a result of the City of Bossier City's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) which is administered by the FEMA. Property owners in flood prone areas are eligible for flood insurance. Do not attempt to walk through floodwater over 18 inches deep. Drainage ditches carry fast-moving flood water and are extremely dangerous. Swimming or playing in or near floodwater is life threatening. Any source of electricity should be considered as dangerous during and after flooding. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area. In the event evacuation of a home or business is necessary, turn off all utilities at the main switch but only if time permits. Stay alert to weather bulletins that warn of flash flooding.
A portable radio should be available in the event of electrical power outage. Local radio and television stations should be listened to for information and instructions. A "Flash Flood Warning" means a flash flood is occurring or will happen very soon precaution should be taken. A "Flood Warning" means a flood is occurring or will occur soon it may take several hours to develop. A "Flash Flood Watch" means a flash flood can occur fast with little warning. Property owners in flood prone areas should become familiar with these terms: "Watch" and "Warning." A "Flood Watch" means flooding is possible.