Requirements of Structures Located in Flood Hazard Zones

A0-30 Zones

Any structure, including manufactured homes, built or placed in the "A" zones must be elevated so that its lowest floor is at or above the base flood elevation (BFE). Any space enclosed below the BFE, inlcuding crawl space must have a minimum of two openings to equalize flood forces on the walls. The total net area of these openings shall be one (1) square inch for each square foot of enclosed space. The bottom of such openings shall be no higher than one (1) foot above grade.

Enclosures below the BFE may only be used for parking vehicles and for limited storage such as lawn chairs, lawn mowers, etc. Enclosed space below the BFE may not be heated or cooled or used as habitable space. Flood resistance materials must be used for all construction below the BFE.

V0-30 Zones

Any structures built in the "V" zones must be elevated so that its lowest horizontal supporting member is at or above the required BFE. Manufactured homes are not allowed in V-zones. All structures built in the V-zone must have their foundation and anchoring system designed by a professional Engineer or Architect registered in the State of South Carolina. Solid walls are not allowed below the BFE in the V-zones; lattice or screening is permitted provided they are designed to break-away.

The area under a structure located in the V-zone that is used for parking vehicles must remain completely open with the exception of lattice or screening as described above. All heating and air conditioning equipment must be elevated above the BFE (above horizontal supporting member).

For more information concerning Hilton Head Island's flood damage prevention ordinance, you may call (843)341-4757.

B or C Zones

Any structure located in a B or C zone is not considered to be in a special flood hazard area. The property may still be subject to local drainage problems or other unmapped hazards. Flood insuance is available. A flood insurance policy may be required by the lender. There are no minimum elevation requirements in a B or C zone.