Plan Commission Agenda Packet 8.24.26
City of Superior · Douglas County · meeting of Aug 24, 2026 · Agenda packets
Open the original document More from City of Superior
Text
Extracted automatically from the original. Tables and formatting may not survive; the original document is authoritative.
PLAN COMMISSION AGENDA – 8/24/2026 Mtg (Meets monthly on 2nd Tuesday of each month) Page 1 of 1
PLAN COMMISSION Agenda
Monday, August 24, 2026–5:00 p.m.
Government Center Room 204
Microsoft Teams Meeting ID: 222 946 853 477 057 Passcode: FN6SS2Nx
Direct Link: Link to Meeting
Or call in (audio only) 1-872-242-8028| Phone Conference ID: 263 039 998#
MISSION STATEMENT: To guide and coordinate development including harbor related issues
in accordance with existing and future needs. City Code 98-2.
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Jim Paine, Tylor Elm, Lindsey Graskey, Brian Finstad, Garner
Moffat, Anne Porter, and Lynn Wohlwend
1 ROLL CALL
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 Plan Commission Minutes (July 14, 2026)
3 OLD BUSINESS
3.1 Review and Approve Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area Ordinance and Resolution
4 NEW BUSINESS
4.1 Small Business Grant Application Review & Recommendations
a. Superior Tavern
b. Flow Studio
4.2 Review and recommend to the City Council that a public hearing be set for October
6th, 2026, in order to facilitate recreating and replacing ARTICLE VII.
FLOODPLAINS within the City of Superior Zoning Code.
4.3 Review for Approval – Downtown Superior Design Guidelines
4.4 Discussion and consideration of the proposed design and framework for the City’s
Community Land Trust Program.
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Planning & Development Director Report
5.2 Housing Coordinator Update
6 ADJOURNMENT
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the members of the Common Council may be present at the meeting, and
although this may constitute a quorum of the Common Council, the Council will not take any action at this meeting.
Meetings are recorded and published on the City of Superior website. Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities
Act of 1990, if you are in need of an accommodation to participate in the public meeting process, please call (715)
395-7200 by 4:30 p.m. on the day prior to the scheduled meeting date (OR dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay
Service). The City will attempt to accommodate any request depending on the amount of notice received. In
compliance with Wisconsin Open Meetings Law, this agenda was posted on 8/21/2026 at the following locations:
Superior Government Center, Douglas County Courthouse, Superior Public Library, and online at
https://www.ci.superior.wi.us/agendacenter. It was also emailed the Superior Telegram.
PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES - 6/9/26 Mtg (Meets monthly on 2nd Tuesday of each month) Page 1 of 3
PLAN COMMISSION Minutes
July 14, 2026 Regular Meeting
The meeting was called to order by Chair Paine at 5:01 pm on July 14, 2026, in Government
Center Room 270.
1 ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Jim Paine, Lynn Wohlwend, Garner Moffat, Tylor Elm, Lindsey Graskey and
Anne Porter
VIRTUAL: Paul Winterscheidt and Mike Herrick
ABSENT: Brian Finstad
CITY STAFF PRESENT: Director Serck, Tech Granlund, Jeff Skrenes, Heidi Blunt and
Tina Anrig, Jordan DeCaro, Lisa Russ, and Paul Russ.
OTHERS PRESENT: Joe Radtke, Sarah Anderson, Nick Ledin and Kathy Aird
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 Plan Commission Minutes (June 9, 2026)
MOTION to approve the June 9, 2026, minutes by Commissioner Elm, seconded by
Commissioner Graskey. Carried.
3 OLD BUSINESS
4 NEW BUSINESS
4.1 Small Business Grant Application Review & Recommendations
a. La Peinado Salon and Spa LLC
b. Up North DeCaro Superior
Director Serck introduced the small business grant applications representees from both
applicants attended the meeting in person. Commissioner Moffat questioned the potential
conflict with Nemadji golf courses contract with the city. Jordan DeCaro representing Up
North DeCaro Superior spoke about the business plans with the golf/game simulators.
MOTION to approve the small business grant applications by Commissioner Porter,
seconded by Commissioner Graskey. Carried.
PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES - 6/9/26 Mtg (Meets monthly on 2nd Tuesday of each month) Page 2 of 3
4.2 Review and Approve Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area Ordinance and Resolution
Commissioner Paine introduced the potential establishment of a Designated Outdoor
Refreshment Area (DORA) and provided an overview of its purpose and potential benefits
for the community. Commissioners discussed the proposed boundary map for the DORA,
benefits of adding DORA districts, possible participation requirements for businesses,
possible safety concerns and the use of designated cups that participating establishments
would be required to provide. City Clerk Blunt answered questions.
Commissioner Paine recommended holding in committee until next meeting.
4.3 Referred from City Council: Approve O26-4430, an ordinance amending City Code,
Chapter 22 – Animals, Article III – Keeping of Animals, to create Section 22-69 –
Roosters Prohibited
Commissioner Paine introduced the proposed ordinance and explained the reasoning for its
referral to the Plan Commission. Commissioner Elm provided an overview of the potential
ordinance's timeline and discussed the Public Safety Committee's rationale for considering
the proposal. Police Chief Paul Winterscheidt addressed the Plan Commission regarding
the potential ordinance and shared concerns about the possible negative impacts of
adopting it. Tina Anrig, the City of Superior Humane Officer, provided background
information on issues involving roosters within city limits. Councilor Radtke discussed both
the potential benefits and disadvantages of adopting an ordinance prohibiting roosters
within the City. The Plan Commission discussed the existing ordinances, the proposed
ordinance, and the potential impacts such changes could have on the community.
MOTION to refer back to Public Safety by Commissioner Elm, seconded by
Commissioner Graskey. Carried.
4.4 Review and Approve Home Purchase Located at 1903 Banks Avenue for $240,00.00
The proposed purchase price of the property is $240,000. Director Serck introduced the
proposed home purchase to the Plan Commission and provided an update on the
development of the Community Land Trust Program. Commissioners discussed the condition
of the home, the framework and implementation of the Community Land Trust Program, and
the proposed sale price of the property. Commissioner Paine requested that a resolution
regarding the proposed purchase be prepared for consideration by the City Council.
MOTION to approve the purchase of the home located at 1903 Banks Avenue for
$240,000.00 with funds to be supplied by the Affordable Housing Fund by Commissioner
Paine, seconded by Commissioner Moffat. Carried.
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Planning & Development Director Report
Director Serck shared with the Plan Commission an update on CHS leases, possible TIF
amendments in the near future, the 28th Street Land Separation upcoming project, an
update on opportunity zones and the demolition of the Sage Hotel.
PLAN COMMISSION MINUTES - 6/9/26 Mtg (Meets monthly on 2nd Tuesday of each month) Page 3 of 3
5.2 Housing Coordinator Update
Jeff Skrenes shared with the Plan Commission the WEDA CEO and other staff visited
Superior doing ribbon cutting and touring.
Commissioner Paine would like an update of HOMES bill for the next meeting.
5.3 Zoning Code Update
More updates to come during the next Plan Commission meeting.
6 ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned at 6:46 pm
Respectfully submitted by Amanda Granlund.
1
FLOODPLAIN ORDINANCE FOR
the
City of Superior
Key for editing:
• Blue highlights are instructional for the ordinance writer and can be deleted once the item is
completed
• Yellow highlights are places where the ordinance needs to be filled in with community specific
information
• Grey highlights are ordinance additions for communities that choose to implement Act 175
• Pink highlights are ordinance additions for communities that have adopted a Coastal Floodplain
District (CFD) (Great Lakes when applicable)
Adoption schedule tracking
1. Date of Public Hearing:
a. (Requires a Class 2 Hearing Notice of Publication or Posting)
2. Date of Adoption:
3. Dates of Publication or Posting:
a. (Second/last date must be at least 7 days before hearing, see definition, Ch 985 Stats)
4. Date of Publication or Posting of Notice of Enacted Ordinance:
2
STATUTORY APPROVAL REQUIREMENTS
**This whole page can be deleted. It is for informational purposes and does not need to remain in the
ordinance
After filling in the blanks in this document and putting in proper map references, publishing a Class 2
public hearing notice, and conducting the hearing, this document may be adopted by the municipality's
governing body.
The public hearing notice must be published for 2 consecutive weeks, THE SECOND TIME AT LEAST 7
DAYS BEFORE THE HEARING, to meet statutory notice requirements to legally adopt any floodplain
zoning ordinance or amendment. The community must also furnish an affidavit for the notice of the public
hearing, a certified copy of the ordinance and an affidavit for the notice of the enacted ordinance for DNR to
issue the approval.
This model ordinance includes both the minimum regulatory standards required in ch. NR 116, Wis.
Admin. Code, and those of the National Flood Insurance Program 44 CFR 59-72. Section 87.30(1)(b),
Stats., permits a county, city, village, or town to adopt a floodplain zoning ordinance that is more
restrictive than the provisions required by the State, but not less restrictive. If a municipality desires to
adopt higher standards, we recommend crafting the language and asking DNR to review to confirm that
the higher standard language exceeds state and federal minimums.
• For municipalities that are required to update their floodplain zoning ordinance as part of a FEMA
floodplain map update, please submit the updated ordinance to the DNR central office floodplain
zoning specialist 3 to 4 months before the federal deadline.
• For municipalities that are updating their floodplain zoning ordinance for reasons OTHER than a
FEMA floodplain map update please submit the proposed ordinance to the DNR central office
floodplain zoning program for review at least 30 days before the public hearing to determine
whether it meets all minimum standards.
Please submit your draft ordinance electronically. If you have made any changes to the model ordinance,
please note the location of those changes in the checklist.
Ordinance language may only be changed through the public hearing and adoption process. DNR
approval of the community floodplain zoning ordinance is part of maintaining good standing in the
National Flood Insurance Program. All amendments are submitted to the Federal Emergency
Management Agency by the DNR on behalf of the municipality.
Model ordinances and FEMA flood insurance maps are periodically revised. Contact the DNR floodplain
management program before holding a public hearing or adoption to assure you are using the most
recent and accurate map and ordinance text available.
3
!! Instructional Information Only !!
[Please delete THIS ENTIRE PAGE when ordinance update is complete.]
After all updates are done, you will need to update the table of contents. Because this is a linked
function within document, the page references will update automatically when you tell it to do so:
1. Click anywhere in the table of contents so that gray shows up behind the words.
2. Right click anywhere in the table of contents so that a window pops up. Select “Update Field”
3. Select “Update entire table” so that both the headings and page numbers update. If you
changed heading names you may notice that some of the headings will not be capitalized
correctly – you will need to find them in the document for formatting and then repeat steps 1-3.
If you make further changes (like deleting this page) and just need to update the page numbers, repeat
steps 1-3…this time, you can select “Update page numbers only”.
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDING OF FACT, STATEMENT OF PURPOSE, TITLE,
AND GENERAL PROVISIONS .................................................................................................................... 6
1.1 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION.......................................................................................................... 6
1.2 FINDING OF FACT ................................................................................................................................. 6
1.3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE ................................................................................................................... 6
1.4 TITLE ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
1.5 GENERAL PROVISIONS ........................................................................................................................ 6
(1) AREAS TO BE REGULATED ................................................................................................... 6
(2) OFFICIAL MAPS & REVISIONS ............................................................................................. 6
(3) ESTABLISHMENT OF FLOODPLAIN ZONING DISTRICTS ............................................... 7
(4) LOCATING FLOODPLAIN BOUNDARIES ............................................................................ 7
(5) REMOVAL OF LANDS FROM FLOODPLAIN ....................................................................... 8
(6) COMPLIANCE ........................................................................................................................... 8
(7) MUNICIPALITIES AND STATE AGENCIES REGULATED ................................................. 8
(8) ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS ................................................................. 9
(9) INTERPRETATION .......................................................................................................... 9
(10) WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY ........................................................... 9
(11) SEVERABILITY ................................................................................................................ 9
(12) ANNEXED AREAS FOR CITIES AND VILLAGES ....................................................... 9
2.0 GENERAL STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO ALL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS ............................................... 9
2.1 HYDRAULIC AND HYDROLOGIC ANALYSES ............................................................................... 10
2.2 WATERCOURSE ALTERATIONS ....................................................................................................... 10
2.3 CHAPTER 30, 31, WIS. STATS., DEVELOPMENT .................................................................... 10
2.4 PUBLIC OR PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS ................................................................................... 11
3.0 FLOODWAY DISTRICT (FW).................................................................................................................... 12
3.1 APPLICABILITY ................................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 PERMITTED USES ....................................................................................................................... 12
3.3 STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE FLOODWAY ............................................................ 13
3.4 PROHIBITED USES .............................................................................................................................. 15
4.0 FLOOD FRINGE DISTRICT (FF) ............................................................................................................... 16
4.1 APPLICABILITY ........................................................................................................................... 16
4.2 PERMITTED USES ....................................................................................................................... 16
4.3 STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE FLOOD FRINGE ...................................................... 16
5.0 OTHER FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS ................................................................................................................... 18
5.1 GENERAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (GFP)....................................................................................... 18
5.3 COASTAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (CFD) ............................................................................. 19
6.0 NONCONFORMING USES ......................................................................................................................... 22
6.1 GENERAL .............................................................................................................................................. 22
6.2 FLOODWAY DISTRICT ............................................................................................................... 27
6.3 FLOOD FRINGE DISTRICT ................................................................................................................. 27
6.5 COASTAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (CFD) ..................................................................................... 28
5
7.0 ADMINISTRATION ............................................................................................................................................. 28
7.1 FLOODPLAIN ZONING ADMINISTRATOR................................................................................ 28
7.2 ZONING AGENCY ................................................................................................................................ 33
7.3 BOARD OF APPEALS .................................................................................................................. 34
7.4 TO REVIEW APPEALS OF PERMIT DENIALS ................................................................................. 36
7.5 FLOODPROOFING STANDARDS............................................................................................... 37
7.6 PUBLIC INFORMATION ............................................................................................................. 38
8.0 AMENDMENTS ........................................................................................................................................... 38
8.1 GENERAL ...................................................................................................................................... 38
9.0 ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES .......................................................................................................... 39
10.0 DEFINITIONS .............................................................................................................................................. 39
6
1.0 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION, FINDING OF FACT, STATEMENT OF PURPOSE, TITLE, AND
GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION
This ordinance is adopted pursuant to the authorization in s. 61.35 and 62.23, for cities; and the
requirements in s. 87.30, Stats.
1.2 FINDING OF FACT
Uncontrolled development and use of the floodplains and rivers of this municipality would impair the
public health, safety, convenience, general welfare, and tax base.
1.3 STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
This ordinance is intended to regulate floodplain development to:
(1) Protect life, health and property;
(2) Minimize expenditures of public funds for flood control projects;
(3) Minimize rescue and relief efforts undertaken at the expense of the taxpayers;
(4) Minimize business interruptions and other economic disruptions;
(5) Minimize damage to public facilities in the floodplain;
(6) Minimize the occurrence of future flood blight areas in the floodplain;
(7) Discourage the victimization of unwary land and homebuyers;
(8) Prevent increases in flood heights that could increase flood damage and result in conflicts
between property owners; and
(9) Discourage development in a floodplain if there is any practicable alternative to locate the activity,
use or structure outside of the floodplain.
1.4 TITLE
This ordinance shall be known as the Floodplain Zoning Ordinance for the city of Superior, Wisconsin.
1.5 GENERAL PROVISIONS
(1) AREAS TO BE REGULATED
This ordinance regulates all areas of special flood hazard identified as zones A, AO, AH, A1 -30,
AE, VE, V1-30, or V on the Flood Insurance Rate Map. Additional areas identified on maps
approved by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and local community may also be
regulated under the provisions of this ordinance, where applicable.
(2) OFFICIAL MAPS & REVISIONS
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA) are designated as zones A, A1-30, AE, AH, AO, VE, V1-
30, or V on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) based on flood hazard analyses
summarized in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) listed in subd. (a) below. Additional flood
hazard areas subject to regulation under this ordinance are identified on maps based on
studies approved by the DNR and listed in subd. (b) below. These maps and revisions are on
file in the office of the City of Superior Planning Department; City/County Government Center;
1316 North 14th Street; Superior, WI 54880.
(a) OFFICIAL MAPS: Based on the Flood Insurance Study (FIS):
1. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), panel numbers 55031C0054E,
55031C0056E, 55031C0057E, 55031C0058E, 55031C0059E,
55031C0066E, 55031C0067E, 55031C0076E, 55031C0077E,
55031C0078E, 55031C0079E, 55031C0081E, 55031C0083E,
55031C0084E, 55031C0086E, 55031C0087E, 55031C0091E,
55031C0092E, 55031C0095E, 55031C0103E, 55031C0111E,
55031C0112E, and 55031C0116E, dated 12/10/2026;
7
2. Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Douglas County, dated 12/10/2026.
Approved by: The DNR and FEMA
(3) ESTABLISHMENT OF FLOODPLAIN ZONING DISTRICTS
The flood hazard areas regulated by this ordinance are divided into districts as follows:
a) The Floodway District (FW), is the channel of a river or stream and those portions of the
floodplain adjoining the channel required to carry the regional floodwaters, within AE Zones
as shown on the FIRM, or within A Zones shown on the FIRM when determined acc ording
to s. 5.1(5).
b) The Floodfringe District (FF) is that portion of a riverine special flood hazard area outside
the floodway within AE Zones on the FIRM, or, when floodway limits have been determined
according to s. 5.1(5), within A Zones shown on the FIRM.
c) The General Floodplain District (GFP) is those riverine areas that may be covered by
floodwater during the regional flood in which a floodway boundary has not been delineated
on the FIRM and also includes shallow flooding areas identified as AH and AO zone s on
the FIRM.
d) The Coastal Floodplain District (CFP) is an area of special flood hazard extending from
offshore to the inland limit of a primary frontal dune along an open coast, and any other
area subject to high velocity wave action from storms, including areas identif ied as zone V,
V1-30, or VE on the FIRM. Where a riverine AE floodway extends into the CFP district,
development within the floodway must comply with the regulations for both the FW and
CFP districts. Where a riverine A zone or AE zone with no floodway determination abuts
the CFP district, the riverine study’s floodway limit must be determined based on standard
floodway expansion principles within the CFP district and development within the floodway
must comply with the standards for both the FW and CFP districts.
(4) LOCATING FLOODPLAIN BOUNDARIES
Discrepancies between the exterior boundaries of zones A1-30, AE, AH, or A on the official
floodplain zoning map and actual field conditions may be resolved using the criteria in subd (a)
or (b) below. If a significant difference exists, the map shall be amended according to s. 8.0
Amendments. The floodplain zoning administrator can rely on a boundary derived from a
profile elevation to grant or deny a land use permit, whether or not a map amendment is
required. The floodplain zoning administrator shall be responsible for documenting actual pre-
development field conditions and the basis upon which the district boundary was determined.
Disputes between the floodplain zoning administrator and an applicant over the district
boundary line shall be settled according to s. 7.3(3) and the criteria in (a) and (b) below . Where
the flood profiles are based on established base flood elevations from a FIRM, FEMA must
approve any map amendment or revision pursuant to s. 8.0 Amendments.
a) If flood profiles exist, the map scale and the profile elevations shall determine the district
boundary. The regional or base flood elevations shall govern if there are any
discrepancies.
b) Where flood profiles do not exist for projects, including any boundary of zone A, AO, V1-30,
VE, or V, the location of the boundary shall be determined by the map scale.
8
(5) REMOVAL OF LANDS FROM FLOODPLAIN
a) Compliance with the provisions of this ordinance shall not be grounds for removing land from
the floodplain unless it is filled at least two feet above the regional or base flood elevation, the
fill is contiguous to land outside the floodplain, and the map is amended pursuant to s. 8.0
Amendments.
b) The delineation of any of the Floodplain Districts may be revised by the community where
natural or man-made changes have occurred and/or where more detailed studies have been
conducted. However, prior to any such change, approval must be obtained from the
Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Federal Emergency Management Agency.
A completed Letter of Map Revision is a record of this approval. The floodplain administrator
shall not sign a community acknowledgement form unless all criteria set forth in the following
paragraphs are met:
1. The land and/or land around the structure must be filled at least two feet above the
regional or base flood elevation;
2. The fill must be contiguous to land outside the floodplain; Applicant shall obtain floodplain
development permit before applying for a LOMR or LOMR-F;
c) Removal of lands from the floodplain may also occur by operation of §87.30(1)(e), Wis. Stat.
if a property owner has obtained a letter of map amendment from the federal emergency
management agency under 44 C.F.R. 70.
(6) COMPLIANCE
a) No structure or use within areas regulated by this ordinance shall hereafter be located,
erected, constructed, reconstructed, repaired, extended, converted, enlarged, or altered
without full compliance with the terms of these regulations and all other applicable regulations
that apply to uses within the jurisdiction of these regulations.
b) Failure to obtain a floodplain development permit shall be a violation of these regulations and
shall be punishable in accordance with s. 9.0.
c) Floodplain development permits issued on the basis of plans and applications approved by
the Floodplain Administrator authorize only the use, and arrangement, set forth in such
approved plans and applications, or amendments thereto if approved by the Flood plain
Administrator. Use, arrangement, or construction contrary to that authorized shall be deemed
a violation of these regulations and punishable in accordance with s. 9.0.
(7) MUNICIPALITIES AND STATE AGENCIES REGULATED
Unless specifically exempted by law, all cities, villages, towns, and counties are required to
comply with this ordinance and obtain all necessary permits. State agencies are required to
comply if s. 13.48(13), Stats., applies. The construction, reconstruction, maintenance and
repair of state highways and bridges by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation is exempt
when s. 30.2022, Stats., applies. Although exempt from a local zoning permit and permit fees,
DOT must provide sufficient project documentation and analysis to ensure that the community
is in compliance with Federal, State, and local floodplain standards. If a local transportation
project is located within a Zone A floodplain and is not a WisDOT project under s. 30.2022,
then the road project design documents (including appropriate detailed plans and profiles) may
be sufficient to meet the requirements for issuance of a local floodplain permit if the following
apply: The applicant provides documentation to the Floodplain Administrator that th e proposed
project is a culvert replacement or bridge replacement under 20’ span at the same location, the
project is exempt from a DNR permit under s. 30.123(6)(d), the capacity is not decreased, the
9
top road grade is not raised, and no floodway data is available from a federal, state, or other
source. If floodway data is available in the impacted area from a federal, state, or other source
that existing data must be utilized by the applicant in the analysis of the project site.
(8) ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS
a) This ordinance supersedes all the provisions of any municipal zoning ordinance enacted
under s. 62.23 for cities; or s. 87.30, Stats., which relate to floodplains. A more restrictive
ordinance shall continue in full force and effect to the extent of the greater restrictions, but
not otherwise.
b) This ordinance is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing deed restrictions,
covenants, or easements. If this ordinance imposes greater restrictions, the provisions of
this ordinance shall prevail.
(9) INTERPRETATION
In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this ordinance are the minimum
requirements liberally construed in favor of the governing body and are not a limitation on or
repeal of any other powers granted by the Wisconsin Statutes. If a provision of this ordinance,
required by ch. NR 116, Wis. Adm. Code, is unclear, the provision shall be interpreted in light
of the standards in effect on the date of the adoption of this ordinance or in effect on the date
of the most recent text amendment to this ordinance.
(10) WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY
The flood protection standards in this ordinance are based on engineering experience and
research. Larger floods may occur, or the flood height may be increased by man-made or
natural causes. This ordinance does not imply or guarantee that non-floodplain areas or
permitted floodplain uses will be free from flooding and flood damages. This ordinance does
not create liability on the part of, or a cause of action against, the municipality or any officer or
employee thereof for any flood damage that may result from reliance on this ordinance.
(11) SEVERABILITY
Should any portion of this ordinance be declared unconstitutional or invalid by a court of
competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this ordinance shall not be affected.
(12) ANNEXED AREAS FOR CITIES AND VILLAGES
The Douglas County floodplain zoning provisions in effect on the date of annexation shall
remain in effect and shall be enforced by the municipality for all annexed areas until the
municipality adopts and enforces an ordinance which meets the requirements of ch. NR 116,
Wis. Adm. Code and 44 CFR 59-72, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). These
annexed lands are described on the municipality's official zoning map. County floodplain
zoning provisions are incorporated by reference for the purpose of administering this section
and are on file in the office of the municipal floodplain zoning administrator. All plats or maps
of annexation shall show the regional flood elevation and the floodway location.
2.0 GENERAL STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO ALL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS
The community shall review all permit applications to determine whether proposed building sites will
be reasonably safe from flooding and assure that all necessary permits have been received from
those governmental agencies whose approval is required by federal or state law.
1) If a proposed building site is in a flood-prone area, all new construction and substantial
improvements shall:
a. be designed and anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the
structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of
buoyancy;
10
b. be constructed with flood-resistant materials;
c. be constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damages; and
d. Mechanical and utility equipment must be elevated to or above the flood protection
elevation.
2) If a subdivision or other proposed new development is in a flood-prone area, the community shall
assure that:
a. such proposed subdivision or other proposed new development is consistent with the
need to minimize flood damage within the flood-prone area;
b. public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems are located
and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage; and
c. adequate drainage is provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards.
All subdivision proposals (including manufactured home parks) shall include regional flood
elevation and floodway data for any development that meets the subdivision definition of this
ordinance and all other requirements in s. 7.1(2).
2.1 HYDRAULIC AND HYDROLOGIC ANALYSES
1) No floodplain development shall:
a. Obstruct flow, defined as development which blocks the conveyance of floodwaters by
itself or with other development, causing any increase in the regional flood height; or
b. Cause any increase in the regional flood height due to floodplain storage area lost.
2) The floodplain zoning administrator shall deny permits if it is determined the proposed
development will obstruct flow or cause any increase in the regional flood height, based on the
officially adopted FIRM or other adopted map, unless the provisions of s. 8.0 Amendments are
met.
2.2 WATERCOURSE ALTERATIONS
No land use permit to alter or relocate a watercourse in a mapped floodplain shall be issued until the
local official has notified in writing all adjacent municipalities, the Department and FEMA regional
offices, and required the applicant to secure all necessary state and federal permits. The standards
of s. 2.1 must be met and the flood carrying capacity of any altered or relocated watercourse shall be
maintained.
As soon as is practicable, but not later than six months after the date of the watercourse alteration or
relocation and pursuant to s. 8.0 Amendments, the community shall apply for a Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) from FEMA. Any such alterations must be reviewed and approved by FEMA and
the DNR through the LOMC process.
2.3 CHAPTER 30, 31, WIS. STATS., DEVELOPMENT
Development which requires a permit from the Department, under chs. 30 and 31, Stats., such as
docks, piers, wharves, bridges, culverts, dams, and navigational aids, may be allowed if the
necessary permits are obtained and amendments to the floodplain zoning ordinance are made
according to s. 8.0 Amendments.
11
2.4 PUBLIC OR PRIVATE CAMPGROUNDS
Public or private campgrounds shall have a low flood damage potential and shall meet the following
provisions:
1) The campground is approved by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer
Protection;
2) A land use permit for the campground is issued by the floodplain zoning administrator;
3) The character of the river system and the campground elevation are such that a 72 -hour
warning of an impending flood can be given to all campground occupants;
4) There is an adequate flood warning procedure for the campground that offers the minimum
notice required under this section to all persons in the campground. This procedure shall
include a written agreement between the campground owner, the floodplain zoni ng agency or
floodplain zoning administrator, the municipal emergency government coordinator and the
chief law enforcement official which specifies the flood elevation at which evacuation shall
occur, personnel responsible for monitoring flood elevations, types of warning systems to be
used and the procedures for notifying at-risk parties, and the methods and personnel
responsible for conducting the evacuation;
5) This agreement shall be for no more than one calendar year, at which time the agreement
shall be reviewed and updated - by the officials identified in sub. (4) - to remain in compliance
with all applicable regulations, including those of the state Department of Agriculture, Trade
and Consumer Protection and all other applicable regulations;
6) All mobile recreational vehicles placed on site must meet one of the following:
a. Be fully licensed, if required, and ready for highway use; or
b. Not occupy any site in the campground for more than 180 consecutive days, at which
time the recreational vehicle must be removed from the floodplain for a minimum of
24 hours; or
c. Meet the requirements in either s. 3.0, 4.0, 5.1, or 5.3 for the floodplain district in
which the structure is located;
A mobile recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking
system, is attached to the site only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices and
has no permanently attached additions.
7) All camping units that remain on site for more than 30 days shall be issued a limited
authorization by the campground operator, a written copy of which is kept on file at the
campground. Such authorization shall allow placement of a camping unit consisten t with
2.4(6) and shall ensure compliance with all the provisions of this section;
8) The municipality shall monitor the limited authorizations issued by the campground operator
to assure compliance with the terms of this section;
9) The campground shall have signs clearly posted at all entrances warning of the flood hazard
and the procedures for evacuation when a flood warning is issued; and
10) All service facilities, including but not limited to refuse collection, electrical service, gas lines,
propane tanks, sewage systems and wells shall be properly anchored and placed at or
12
floodproofed to the flood protection elevation; and
11) Standards for structures in a campground:
a. All structures must comply with section 2.4 or meet the applicable requirements in ss.
3.0, 4.0, 5.1, or 5.3 for the floodplain district in which the structure is located;
b. Deck/landing-a portable landing may be allowed for a camping unit for each entry
provided that the landing is not permanently attached to the ground or camping unit,
is no more than 200 square feet in size, shall be portable, contain no walls or roof,
and can be removed from the campground by a truck and/or trailer. Sections of such
portable landings may be placed together to form a single deck not greater than 200
square feet at one entry point. Provisions for the removal of these temporary
landings during flood events must be addressed within the written agreement with the
municipality compliant with section 2.4(4). Any such deck/landing structure may be
constructed at elevations lower than the flood protection elevation but must not
obstruct flow of flood waters or cause any increase in flood levels during the
occurrence of the regional flood.
c. Decks/patios that are constructed completely at grade may be allowed but must also
comply with applicable shoreland zoning standards.
d. Camping equipment and appurtenant equipment in the campground may be
allowed provided that the equipment is not permanently attached to the ground or
camping unit, is not used as a habitable structure, and must not obstruct flow of flood
waters or cause any increase in flood levels during the occurrence of the regional
flood. Provisions for the removal of this equipment during flooding events shall be
addressed within the written agreement with the municipality compliant with section
2.4(4).
e. Once a flood warning in the written agreement has been issued for the campground,
the campground owner or the designated operator shall ensure that all persons,
camping units, decks, camping equipment and appurtenant equipment in the
campground shall be evacuated within the timelines specified within the written
agreement with the municipality compliant with section 2.4(4).
12) A land use permit shall be obtained as provided under 7.1(2) before any development; repair,
modification, or addition to an existing structure; or change in the use of a building or
structure, including sewer and water facilities, may be initiated.
3.0 FLOODWAY DISTRICT (FW)
3.1 APPLICABILITY
This section applies to all floodway areas on the floodplain zoning maps and those identified pursuant
to s. 5.1(5).
3.2 PERMITTED USES
The following open space uses are allowed in the Floodway District and the floodway areas of the
General Floodplain District, if:
• they are not prohibited by any other ordinance;
• they meet the standards in s. 3.3 and 3.4; and
• all permits or certificates have been issued according to s. 7.1.
1) Agricultural uses, such as: farming, outdoor plant nurseries, horticulture, viticulture, and wild crop
harvesting.
13
2) Nonstructural industrial and commercial uses, such as loading areas, parking areas and airport
landing strips.
3) Nonstructural recreational uses, such as golf courses, tennis courts, archery ranges, picnic
grounds, boat ramps, swimming areas, parks, wildlife and nature preserves, game farms, fish
hatcheries, shooting, trap, and skeet activities, hunting and fishing areas and hiking and
horseback riding trails, subject to the fill limitations of s. 3.3(4).
4) Uses or structures accessory to open space uses or classified as historic structures that comply
with s. 3.3 and 3.4.
5) Extraction of sand, gravel or other materials that comply with s. 3.3(4).
6) Functionally water-dependent uses, such as docks, piers or wharves, dams, flowage areas,
culverts, navigational aids and river crossings of transmission lines, and pipelines that comply
with chs. 30 and 31, Stats.
7) Public utilities, streets and bridges that comply with s. 3.3(3).
8) Portable latrines that are removed prior to flooding and systems associated with recreational
areas and Department-approved campgrounds that meet the applicable provisions of local
ordinances and Ch. SPS 383, Wis. Adm. Code.
9) Public or private wells used to obtain potable water for recreational areas that meet the
requirements of local ordinances and chs. NR 811 and NR 812, Wis. Adm. Code.
10) Wastewater treatment ponds or facilities permitted under s. NR 110.15(3)(b), Wis. Adm. Code.
11) Sanitary sewer or water supply lines to service existing or proposed development located outside
the floodway that complies with the regulations for the floodplain area occupied.
3.3 STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE FLOODWAY
1) GENERAL
a. Any development in the floodway shall comply with s. 2.0 and have a low flood damage
potential.
b. Applicants shall provide an analysis calculating the effects of this proposal on the
regional flood height to determine the effects of the proposal according to s. 2.1 and
7.1(2)(c). The analysis must be completed by a registered professional engineer in the
state of Wisconsin.
c. Any encroachment in the regulatory floodway is prohibited unless the data submitted for
subd. 3.3(1)(b) above demonstrates that the encroachment will cause no increase in
flood elevations in flood events up to the base flood at any location or removes the
encroached area from the regulatory floodway as provided in s. 1.5(5).
2) STRUCTURES
Structures accessory to permanent open space uses, including utility and sanitary facilities, or
functionally dependent on a waterfront location may be allowed by permit if the structures comply
with the following criteria:
a. Not designed for human habitation, does not have a high flood damage potential and is
14
constructed to minimize flood damage;
b. Shall either have the lowest floor elevated to or above the flood protection elevation or
shall meet all the following standards:
1. Have the lowest floor elevated to or above the regional flood elevation and be dry
floodproofed so that the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable
to the passage of water and completely dry to the flood protection elevation without
human intervention during flooding;
2. Have structural components capable of meeting all provisions of Section 3.3(2)(g)
and;
3. Be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect, through the use of a
Federal Emergency Management Agency Floodproofing Certificate, that the design
and methods of construction are in accordance with Section 3.3(2)(g).
c. Must be anchored to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement;
d. Mechanical and utility equipment must be elevated to or above the flood protection
elevation; and
e. Must not obstruct flow of flood waters or cause any increase in flood levels during the
occurrence of the regional flood.
f. For a structure designed to allow the automatic entry of floodwaters below the Regional
Flood Elevation, the applicant shall submit a plan that meets s. 3.3(2)(a) through 3.3(2)(e)
and meets or exceeds the following standards:
1. The lowest floor must be elevated to or above the regional flood elevation;
2. a minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch
for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding;
3. the bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above the lowest
adjacent grade; openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other
coverings or devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of
floodwaters, otherwise must remain open.
4. The use must be limited to parking, building access or limited storage.
g. Certification: Whenever floodproofing measures are required, a registered professional
engineer or architect shall certify that the following floodproofing measures will be
utilized, where appropriate, and are adequate to withstand the flood depths, pressu res,
velocities, impact and uplift forces and other factors associated with the regional flood:
1. Reinforcement of floors and walls to resist rupture, collapse, or lateral movement
caused by water pressures or debris buildup;
2. Construction of wells, water supply systems and waste treatment systems so as to
prevent the entrance of flood waters in such systems and must be in accordance
with provisions in Sections 3.4(4) and 3.4(5);
3. Subsurface drainage systems to relieve external pressures on foundation walls and
basement floors;
15
4. Cutoff valves on sewer lines or the elimination of gravity flow basement drains; and
5. Placement of utilities to or above the flood protection elevation.
3) PUBLIC UTILITIES, STREETS AND BRIDGES
Public utilities, streets and bridges may be allowed by permit, if:
a. Adequate floodproofing measures are provided to the flood protection elevation; and
b. Construction meets the development standards of s. 2.1.
4) FILLS OR DEPOSITION OF MATERIALS
Fills or deposition of materials may be allowed by permit, if:
a. The requirements of s. 2.1 are met;
b. No material is deposited in navigable waters unless a permit is issued by the Department
pursuant to ch. 30, Stats., and a permit pursuant to s. 404 of the Federal Water Pollution
Control Act, Amendments of 1972, 33 U.S.C. 1344 has been issued, if applicab le, and all
other requirements have been met;
c. The fill or other materials will be protected against erosion by riprap, vegetative cover,
sheet piling or bulkheading; and
d. The fill is not classified as a solid or hazardous material.
3.4 PROHIBITED USES
All uses not listed as permitted uses in s. 3.2 are prohibited, including the following uses:
1) Habitable structures, structures with high flood damage potential, or those not associated with
permanent open-space uses;
2) Storing materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive, injurious to property, water quality, or
human, animal, plant, fish or other aquatic life;
3) Uses not in harmony with or detrimental to uses permitted in the adjoining districts;
4) Any private or public sewage systems, except portable latrines that are removed prior to flooding
and systems associated with recreational areas and Department-approved campgrounds that
meet the applicable provisions of local ordinances and ch. SPS 383, Wis. Adm. Code;
5) Any public or private wells which are used to obtain potable water, except those for recreational
areas that meet the requirements of local ordinances and chs. NR 811 and NR 812, Wis. Adm.
Code;
6) Any solid or hazardous waste disposal sites;
7) Any wastewater treatment ponds or facilities, except those permitted under s. NR 110.15(3)(b),
Wis. Adm. Code; and
8) Any sanitary sewer or water supply lines, except those to service existing or proposed
development located outside the floodway which complies with the regulations for the floodplain
area occupied.
16
4.0 FLOODFRINGE DISTRICT (FF)
4.1 APPLICABILITY
This section applies to all floodfringe areas shown on the floodplain zoning maps and those identified
pursuant to s. 5.1(5).
4.2 PERMITTED USES
Any structure, land use, or development is allowed in the Floodfringe District if the standards in s. 4.3
are met, the use is not prohibited by this, or any other ordinance or regulation and all permits or
certificates specified in s. 7.1 have been issued.
4.3 STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE FLOODFRINGE
Section 2.0 shall apply in addition to the following requirements according to the use requested. Any
existing structure in the floodfringe must meet the requirements of s. 6.0 Nonconforming Uses;
(1) RESIDENTIAL USES
Any structure, including a manufactured home, which is to be newly constructed or
moved into the floodfringe, shall meet or exceed the following standards;
a) All new construction, including placement of manufactured homes, and
substantial improvement of residential structures, shall have the lowest floor
elevated to or above the flood protection elevation on fill. The fill around the
structure shall be one foot or more above the regional flood elevation extending
at least 15 feet beyond the limits of the structure. No area may be removed from
the floodfringe district unless it can be shown to meet s. 1.5(5).
b) Notwithstanding s. 4.3 (1)(a), a basement or crawlspace floor may be placed at
the regional flood elevation if the basement or crawlspace is designed to make all
portions of the structure below the flood protection elevation watertight with walls
substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural
components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic
loads and effects of buoyancy. No floor of any kind is allowed below the regional
flood elevation;
c) Contiguous dryland access shall be provided from a structure to land outside of
the floodplain, except as provided in subd. (d).
d) In developments where existing street or sewer line elevations make compliance
with subd. (c) impractical, the municipality may permit new development and
substantial improvements where roads are below the regional flood elevation, if:
1. The municipality has written assurance from police, fire and emergency
services that rescue and relief will be provided to the structure(s) by
wheeled vehicles during a regional flood event; or
2. The municipality has a DNR-approved emergency evacuation plan that
follows acceptable hazard mitigation planning guidelines.
(2) ACCESSORY STRUCTURES OR USES
In addition to s. 2.0, new construction and substantial improvements of Accessory
structures shall be constructed on fill with the lowest floor at or above the regional flood
elevation.
(3) COMMERCIAL USES
17
In addition to s. 2.0, any commercial structure which is erected, altered, or moved into the
floodfringe shall meet the requirements of s. 4.3(1). Subject to the requirements of s.
4.3(5), storage yards, surface parking lots and other such uses may be placed at lower
elevations if an adequate warning system exists to protect life and property.
(4) MANUFACTURING AND INDUSTRIAL USES
In addition to s. 2.0, any manufacturing or industrial structure which is erected, altered, or
moved into the floodfringe shall have the lowest floor elevated to or above the flood
protection elevation or meet the floodproofing standards in s 7.5. Subject to the
requirements of s. 4.3(5), storage yards, surface parking lots and other such uses may be
placed at lower elevations if an adequate warning system exists to protect life and
property.
(5) STORAGE OF MATERIALS
Materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive, or injurious to property, water quality or
human, animal, plant, fish, or aquatic life shall be stored at or above the flood protection
elevation or floodproofed in compliance with s. 7.5. Adequate measures shall be taken to
ensure that such materials will not enter the water body during flooding.
(6) PUBLIC UTILITIES, STREETS AND BRIDGES
All utilities, streets and bridges shall be designed to be compatible with comprehensive
floodplain development plans; and
a) When failure of public utilities, streets and bridges would endanger public health
or safety, or where such facilities are deemed essential, construction or repair of
such facilities shall only be permitted if they are designed to comply with s. 7.5.
b) Minor roads or non-essential utilities may be constructed at lower elevations if
they are designed to withstand flood forces to the regional flood elevation.
(7) SEWAGE SYSTEMS
All sewage disposal systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of
flood water into the system, pursuant to s. 7.5(3), to the flood protection elevation and
meet the provisions of all local ordinances and ch. SPS 383, Wis. Adm. Code.
(8) WELLS
All wells shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the
system, pursuant to s. 7.5(3), to the flood protection elevation and shall meet the
provisions of chs. NR 811 and NR 812, Wis. Adm. Code.
(9) SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SITES
Disposal of solid or hazardous waste is prohibited in floodfringe areas.
(10) DEPOSITION OF MATERIALS
Any deposited material must meet all the provisions of this ordinance.
18
(11) MANUFACTURED HOMES
a) Owners or operators of all manufactured home parks and subdivisions shall
provide adequate surface drainage to minimize flood damage, and prepare,
secure approval, and file an evacuation plan, indicating vehicular access and
escape routes, with local emergency management authorities.
b) In existing manufactured home parks, all new homes, replacement homes on
existing pads, and substantially improved homes shall:
1. have the lowest floor elevated to the flood protection elevation; and
2. be anchored so they do not float, collapse, or move laterally during a
flood;
c) Outside of existing manufactured home parks, including new manufactured home
parks and all single units outside of existing parks, all new, replacement and
substantially improved manufactured homes shall meet the residential
development standards for the floodfringe in s. 4.3(1).
(12) MOBILE RECREATIONAL VEHICLES
All mobile recreational vehicles must be on site for less than 180 consecutive days and
be either:
a) fully licensed and ready for highway use; or
b) shall meet the elevation and anchoring requirements in s. 4.3 (11)(b) and (c).
A mobile recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking
system, is attached to the site only by quick-disconnect utilities and security devices and
has no permanently attached additions.
5.0 OTHER FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS
5.1 GENERAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (GFP)
1) APPLICABILITY
The provisions for the General Floodplain District shall apply to development in all floodplains
mapped as A, AO, AH, and in AE zones within which a floodway is not delineated on the Flood
Insurance Rate Maps identified in s. 1.5(2)(a).
2) FLOODWAY BOUNDARIES
For proposed development in zone A, or in zone AE within which a floodway is not delineated on
the Flood Insurance Rate Map identified in s. 1.5(2)(a), the boundaries of the regulatory floodway
shall be determined pursuant to s. 5.1(5). If the development is proposed to encroach upon the
regulatory floodway, the development is subject to the standards of s 3.0. If the development is
located entirely within the floodfringe, the development is subject to the standards of s. 4.0.
3) PERMITTED USES
Pursuant to s. 5.1(5) it shall be determined whether the proposed use is located within the
floodway or floodfringe. Those uses permitted in the Floodway (s. 3.2) and Floodfringe (s. 4.2)
19
Districts are allowed within the General Floodplain District, according to the standards of s. 5.1(4)
provided that all permits or certificates required under s. 7.1 have been issued.
4) STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE GENERAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT
Section 3.0 applies to floodway areas, determined to pursuant to 5.1(5); Section 4.0 applies to
floodfringe areas, determined to pursuant to 5.1(5).
a) New construction and substantial improvement of structures in zone AO shall have the
lowest floor, including basement, elevated:
1. To or above the depth, in feet, as shown on the FIRM above the highest adjacent
natural grade; or
2. If the depth is not specified on the FIRM, two feet (2) above the highest adjacent
natural grade or higher.
b) New Construction and substantial improvement of structures in zone AH shall have the
lowest floor, including basement, elevated to or above the flood protection elevation.
c) In AO/AH zones, provide adequate drainage paths to guide floodwaters around structures.
d) All development in zones AO and zone AH shall meet the requirements of s. 4.0 applicable
to floodfringe areas.
5) DETERMINING FLOODWAY AND FLOODFRINGE LIMITS
Upon receiving an application for development within zone A, or within zone AE where a floodway
has not been delineated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps, the floodplain zoning administrator
shall:
a) Require the applicant to submit two copies of an aerial photograph or a plan which shows
the proposed development with respect to the general floodplain district limits, stream
channel, and existing floodplain developments, along with a legal description o f the property,
fill limits and elevations, building floor elevations and flood proofing measures and the flood
zone as shown on the FIRM.
b) Require the applicant to furnish any of the following information deemed necessary by the
Department to evaluate the effects of the proposal upon flood height and flood flows,
regional flood elevation and to determine floodway boundaries.
1. A Hydrologic and Hydraulic Study as specified in s. 7.1(2)(c).
2. Plan (surface view) showing elevations or contours of the ground; pertinent structure,
fill or storage elevations; size, location, and layout of all proposed and existing
structures on the site; location and elevations of streets, water supply, and sanitar y
facilities; soil types and other pertinent information.
3. Specifications for building construction and materials, floodproofing, filling, dredging,
channel improvement, storage, water supply and sanitary facilities.
5.2 COASTAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (CFD)
(1) APPLICABILITY
20
The provisions of this section apply to all Coastal Floodplain Districts (CFD) shown on the
floodplain zoning maps, which includes zones V, V1-30, and VE. Where a floodway
shown on the floodplain zoning maps, or a floodway determined as explained in s.
1.5(3)(d) or a regulatory floodway identified pursuant to s. 5.1(5), extends into a Coastal
Floodplain District, development shall comply with the standards of s. 3.0 and s. 5.3.
(2) STANDARDS FOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE COASTAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT
Development in the CFD district shall meet the requirements of s. 2.0, as well as the
following:
a. New construction shall be located landward of the Ordinary High-Water Mark.
b. Bulkheads, seawalls, revetments, and other erosion control measures shall not
be connected to the foundation or superstructure of a building and shall be
designed and constructed so as not to direct floodwaters or increase flood forces
or erosion impacts on the foundation or superstructure of any building.
c. Man-made alterations of sand dunes are prohibited unless an engineering report
documents that the alterations will not increase potential flood damage by
reducing the wave and flow dissipation characteristics of the sand dunes.
d. The use of fill for structural support of buildings is prohibited.
1. Non-structural fill shall be permitted only if an engineering report
demonstrates that the fill will not cause runup, ramping, or deflection of
floodwaters that cause damage to buildings.
e. New construction and substantial improvement of buildings shall be elevated,
consistent with SPS 321.34, on pilings or columns so that the bottom of the
lowest horizontal structural member of the lowest floor (excluding the pilings or
columns) is elevated to or above the FPE.
1. The pile or column foundation and structure attached thereto shall be
anchored to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement due to the
effects of wind and water loads acting simultaneously on all building
components. Water loading values shall be those associated with the
base flood. Wind loading values shall be those defined according to
American Society of Civil Engineers 7-16 Minimum design loads and
associated criteria for buildings and other structures, or other
equivalent standard.
2. A registered professional engineer or architect shall develop or review
the structural design, specifications, and plans for the construction, and
shall certify that the design and methods of construction to be used are
in accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting the
provisions of s. 5.3(2)(e).
f. New construction and substantial improvement of buildings shall have the space
below the lowest floor either free of obstruction or constructed with non-
21
supporting breakaway walls, open wood latticework, or insect screening intended
to collapse without causing collapse, displacement, or other structural damage to
the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system.
1. For the purpose of s. 5.3(2)(f), a breakaway wall shall have a design
safe loading resistance of not less than 10 and not more than 20
pounds per square foot.
2. Use of breakaway walls which exceed a design safe loading
resistance of 20 pounds per square foot (either by design or where so
required by local or state codes) may be permitted only if a registered
professional engineer or architect certifies that the designs proposed
meet all of the following conditions:
a) Breakaway wall collapse shall result from a water load less than
that which would occur during the base flood; and
b) The elevated portion of the building and supporting foundation
system shall not be subject to collapse, displacement, or other
structural damage due to the effects of wind and water loads
acting simultaneously on all building components (structural and
non-structural). Water loading values shall be those associated
with the base flood. Wind loading values shall be those defined
according to American Society of Civil Engineers 7-16 Minimum
design loads and associated criteria for buildings and other
structures, or equivalent standard.
3. All space enclosed by breakaway walls, open wood latticework, or
insect screening below the lowest floor shall be used solely for parking,
building access, or storage.
g. Require within flood-prone areas:
1. New and replacement water supply systems to be designed to
minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems; and
2. New and replacement sanitary sewage systems to be designed to
minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and
discharges from the systems into flood waters and onsite waste
disposal systems to be located to avoid impairment to them or
contamination from them during flooding.
h. All mobile recreation vehicles must be on site for less than 180 consecutive days
and be either:
1. fully licensed and ready for highway use; or
2. shall meet the standards of ss. 5.3(2)(a) through 5.3(2)(g) inclusive.
22
A mobile recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is on its
wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick-
disconnect type utilities and security devices and has no permanently
attached additions.
i. Manufactured homes placed or substantially improved within the Coastal
Floodplain District shall meet the standards of ss. 5.3(2)(a) through 5.3(2)(g)
inclusive.
6.0 NONCONFORMING USES
6.1 GENERAL
1) Applicability
a) The standards in this section shall apply to all uses and buildings that do not conform to the
provisions contained within a floodplain zoning ordinance or with s. 87.30, Stats. and §§ NR
116.12-14, Wis. Adm. Code and 44 CFR 59-72., these standards shall apply to all
modifications or additions to any nonconforming use or structure and to the use of any
structure or premises which was lawful before the passage of this ordinance or any
amendment thereto. A party asserting existence of a lawfully established nonconforming use
or structure has the burden of proving that the use or structure was compliant with the
floodplain zoning ordinance in effect at the time the use or structure was created.
b) As permit applications are received for additions, modifications, or substantial improvements
to nonconforming buildings in the floodplain, municipalities shall develop a list of those
nonconforming buildings, their present equalized assessed value, and a list of the costs of
those activities associated with changes to those buildings.
2) The existing lawful use of a structure or its accessory use which is not in conformity with the
provisions of this ordinance may continue subject to the following conditions:
a) No modifications or additions to a nonconforming use or structure shall be permitted unless
they comply with this ordinance. The words "modification" and "addition" include, but are not
limited to, any alteration, addition, modification, structural repair, rebuilding or replacement of
any such existing use, structure or accessory structure or use. Maintenance is not considered
a modification; this includes painting, decorating, paneling and other nonstructural
components and the maintenance, repair or replacement of existing private sewage or water
supply systems or connections to public utilities. Any costs associated with the repair of a
damaged structure are not considered maintenance.
The construction of a deck that does not exceed 200 square feet and that is adjacent to the
exterior wall of a principal structure is not an extension, modification, or addition. The roof of
the structure may extend over a portion of the deck in order to provide safe ingress and egress
to the principal structure.
b) If a nonconforming use or the use of a nonconforming structure is discontinued for 12
consecutive months, it is no longer permitted and any future use of the property, and any
structure or building thereon, shall conform to the applicable requirements of this ordinance;
c) The municipality shall keep a record which lists all nonconforming uses and nonconforming
structures, their present equalized assessed value, the cost of all modifications or additions
which have been permitted, and the percentage of the structure's total current value those
modifications represent;
23
d) No modification or addition to any nonconforming structure or any structure with a
nonconforming use, which over the life of the structure would equal or exceed 50% of its
present equalized assessed value, shall be allowed unless the entire structure is pe rmanently
changed to a conforming structure with a conforming use in compliance with the applicable
requirements of this ordinance. Contiguous dry land access must be provided for residential
and commercial uses in compliance with s. 4.3(1). The costs of elevating the lowest floor of a
nonconforming building or a building with a nonconforming use to the flood protection
elevation are excluded from the 50% provisions of this paragraph;
e) No maintenance on a per event basis to any nonconforming structure or any structure with a
nonconforming use, the cost of which would equal or exceed 50% of its present equalized
assessed value, shall be allowed unless the entire structure is permanently changed to a
conforming structure with a conforming use in compliance with the applicable requirements of
this ordinance. Contiguous dry land access must be provided for residential and commercial
uses in compliance with s. 4.3(1). Maintenance to any nonconforming structure, which does
not exceed 50% of its present equalized assessed value on a per event basis, does not count
against the cumulative calculations over the life of the structure for substantial improve ment
calculations.
f) If on a per event basis the total value of the work being done under (d) and (e) equals or
exceeds 50% of the present equalized assessed value, the work shall not be permitted unless
the entire structure is permanently changed to a conforming structure with a conforming use in
compliance with the applicable requirements of this ordinance. Contiguous dry land access
must be provided for residential and commercial uses in compliance with s. 4.3(1).
g) Except as provided in subd. (h), if any nonconforming structure or any structure with a
nonconforming use is destroyed or is substantially damaged, it cannot be replaced,
reconstructed, or rebuilt unless the use and the structure meet the current ordinance
requirements. A structure is considered substantially damaged if the total cost to restore the
structure to its pre-damaged condition equals or exceeds 50% of the structure’s present
equalized assessed value.
h) For nonconforming buildings that are substantially damaged or destroyed by a nonflood
disaster, the repair or reconstruction of any such nonconforming building shall be permitted in
order to restore it to the size and use in effect prior to the damage event, provided that the
following minimum requirements are met, and all required permits have been granted prior to
the start of construction:
1. Residential Structures
a. Shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to or above the base flood
elevation using fill, pilings, columns, posts, or perimeter walls. Perimeter walls must
meet the requirements of s. 7.5(2).
b. Shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement of the structure
resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy,
and shall be constructed with methods and materials resistant to flood damage.
c. Shall be constructed with electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing and air conditioning
equipment and other service facilities that are designed and/or elevated so as to
prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions
of flooding.
24
d. In A Zones, obtain, review, and utilize any flood data available from a federal, state or
other source.
e. In AO Zones with no elevations specified, shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, meet the standards in s. 5.1(4).
f. in AO Zones, shall have adequate drainage paths around structures on slopes to
guide floodwaters around and away from the structure.
2. Nonresidential Structures
a. Shall meet the requirements of s. 6.1(2)(h)1a-f.
b. Shall either have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to or above the
regional flood elevation; or, together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities, shall
meet the standards in s. 7.5 (1) or (2).
c. In AO Zones with no elevations specified, shall have the lowest floor, including
basement, meet the standards in s. 5.1(4).
3) A nonconforming historic structure may be altered if the alteration will not preclude the structure’s
continued designation as a historic structure, the alteration will comply with s. 3.3 (1), flood
resistant materials are used, and construction practices and floodproofing methods that comply
with s. 7.5 are used. Repair or rehabilitation of historic structures shall be exempt from the
development standards of s. 6.1 (2)(h)1 if it is determined that the proposed repair or rehabilitation
will not preclude the structure's continued designation as a historic structure and is the minimum
necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.
4) Notwithstanding anything in this chapter to the contrary, modifications, additions, maintenance,
and repairs to a nonconforming building shall not be prohibited based on cost and the building’s
nonconforming use shall be permitted to continue if:
a) Any living quarters in the nonconforming building are elevated to be at or above the flood
protection elevation;
b) The lowest floor of the nonconforming building, including the basement, is elevated to or
above the regional flood elevation;
c) The nonconforming building is permanently changed to conform to the applicable
requirements of 2.0;
d) If the nonconforming building is in the floodway, the building is permanently changed to
conform to the applicable requirements of 3.3(1), 3.3(2)(b) through (e), 3.3(3), 3.3(4), and 6.2.
Any development that adds additional fill or creates an encroachment in the floodplain from
beyond the original nonconforming structure’s 3-D building envelope must determine the
floodway in accordance with section 5.1(5). If the encroachment is in the floodway, it must
meet the standards in section 3.3(4);
e) If the nonconforming building is in the floodfringe and the building does not conform to the
applicable requirements of 4.3 and 6.3, the building will remain nonconforming
.
25
f) Repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures and substantial improvements of
residential buildings in zones A1-30, AE, and AH must have the lowest floor (including
basement) elevated to or above the base flood elevation;
g) Repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures and substantial improvements of non -
residential buildings in zones A1-30, AE, and AH must have the lowest floor (including
basement) elevated to or above the base flood elevation, or (together with atten dant utility
and sanitary facilities) be designed so that below the base flood elevation the building is
watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural
components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of
buoyancy:
i. Where a non-residential structure is intended to be made watertight below the
base flood elevation, a registered professional engineer or architect must
develop and/or review structural design, specifications, and plans for the
construction, and must certify that the design and methods of construction are in
accordance with accepted standards of practice for meeting the provisions of s.
6.1(4)(g) above.
ii. The community must maintain a record of such certification including the specific
elevation to which each such structure is floodproofed;
h) Fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor of repair or reconstruction of nonconforming
structures and substantial improvements in zones A1-30, AE, and AH that are usable solely
for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage, must be designed to ade quately equalize
hydrostatic forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters.
Subsequent improvements to repaired or reconstructed nonconforming structures must not
increase the degree of their nonconformity. Designs for meeting this requirement must either
be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect, or meet the following criteria:
i. A minimum of two openings into each enclosed area must be located below the
base flood elevation and provide a total net area of not less than one square inch
for every square foot of enclosed area.
ii. The bottom of all openings must be no higher than one foot above the adjacent
grade.
iii. Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings if
they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters;
i) Manufactured homes that are placed or substantially improved within zones A1 -30, AE, and
AH outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision, in a new manufactured home park
or subdivision, in an expansion to an existing manufactured home park or subdivi sion, or in
an existing manufactured home park or subdivision on which a manufactured home has
incurred substantial damage as a result of flood, must be elevated on a permanent
foundation such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is at or above t he base flood
elevation, and be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist
flotation, collapse, and lateral movement;
j) Manufactured homes that are placed or substantially improved within zones A1 -30, AE, and
AH on existing sites in an existing manufactured home park that is not undergoing expansion
and on which a manufactured home has not incurred substantial damage as a r esult of flood
must be elevated so that either the lowest floor of the manufactured home is at or above the
base flood elevation, or the manufactured home chassis is supported by reinforced piers or
other foundation elements of at least equivalent strength that are no less than 36 inches in
26
height above grade, and be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system
to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement;
k) Recreational vehicles placed on sites within zones A1-30, AH, and AE must either:
i. Be on site for fewer than 180 consecutive days; or
ii. Be fully licensed and ready for highway use (a recreational vehicle is ready for
highway use if it is on its wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by
quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently
attached additions); or
iii. Meet the elevation and anchoring requirements for manufactured homes in s.
6.1(4)(i) above;
l) In a regulatory floodway that has been delineated on the FIRM in zone A1-30 or AE,
encroachments, including repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures, substantial
improvement, or other development (including fill) must be prohibited unless it has been
demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic analyses performed in accordance with
standard engineering practice that the proposed encroachment will not result in any increase
in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
Subsequent improvements to repaired or reconstructed nonconforming structures must not
increase the degree of their nonconformity;
m) In zone A, the community must obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any base flood
elevation and floodway data available from a federal, state, or other source as criteria for
requiring repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures, substantial improvement, and
other development to meet ss. 6.1(4)(f) through (l) (inclusive) above. Any development that
adds additional fill or creates an encroachment in the floodplain from beyond the original
nonconforming structure’s 3-D building envelope must determine the floodway in accordance
with section 5.1(5). If the encroachment is in the floodway, it must meet the standards in
section 3.3(4). Subsequent improvements to repair or reconstructed nonconforming
structures must not increase the degree of their nonconformity;
n) In zones A1-30 or AE where a regulatory floodway has not been delineated on the FIRM,
repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures, substantial improvement, or any
development that adds additional fill or creates an encroachment in the floodplain f rom
beyond the original nonconforming structure’s 3-D building envelope must determine the
floodway in accordance with section 5.1(5). If the encroachment is in the floodway, it must
meet the standards in section 3.3(4). Subsequent improvements to repair o r reconstructed
nonconforming structures must not increase the degree of their nonconformity;
o) In zone AO, repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures and substantial
improvements of residential structures must have the lowest floor (including basement)
elevated above the highest adjacent grade at least as high as the depth number specified in
feet on the FIRM (at least two feet if no depth number is specified). Subsequent
improvements to repair or reconstructed nonconforming structures must not increase the
degree of their nonconformity; or
p) In zone AO, repair or reconstruction of nonconforming structures and substantial
improvements of nonresidential structures must have the lowest floor (including basement)
elevated above the highest adjacent grade at least as high as the depth number specif ied in
feet on the FIRM (at least two feet if no depth number is specified), or (together with
attendant utility and sanitary facilities) be structurally dry-floodproofed to that level according
27
to the standard specified in s. 6.1(4)(g) above. Subsequent improvements to repair or
reconstructed nonconforming structures must not increase the degree of their nonconformity.
6.2 FLOODWAY DISTRICT
1) No modification or addition shall be allowed to any nonconforming structure or any structure with
a nonconforming use in the Floodway District, unless such modification or addition:
a) Has been granted a permit or variance which meets all ordinance requirements;
b) Meets the requirements of s. 6.1;
c) Shall not increase the obstruction to flood flows or regional flood height;
d) Any addition to the existing structure shall be floodproofed, pursuant to s. 7.5, by means
other than the use of fill, to the flood protection elevation; and,
e) If any part of the foundation below the flood protection elevation is enclosed, the following
standards shall apply:
1. The enclosed area shall be designed by a registered architect or engineer to allow for the
efficient entry and exit of flood waters without human intervention. A minimum of two
openings must be provided with a minimum net area of at least one square inch for every
one square foot of the enclosed area. The lowest part of the opening can be no more
than 12 inches above the adjacent grade;
2. The parts of the foundation located below the flood protection elevation must be
constructed of flood-resistant materials;
3. Mechanical and utility equipment must be elevated or floodproofed to or above the flood
protection elevation; and
4. The use must be limited to parking, building access or limited storage.
2) No new on-site sewage disposal system, or addition to an existing on-site sewage disposal
system, except where an addition has been ordered by a government agency to correct a hazard
to public health, shall be allowed in the Floodway District. Any replacement, repair or
maintenance of an existing on-site sewage disposal system in a floodway area shall meet the
applicable requirements of all municipal ordinances, s. 7.5(3) and Ch. SPS 383, Wis. Adm. Code.
3) No new well or modification to an existing well used to obtain potable water shall be allowed in
the Floodway District. Any replacement, repair, or maintenance of an existing well in the
Floodway District shall meet the applicable requirements of all municipal ordinances, s. 7.5(3)
and chs. NR 811 and NR 812, Wis. Adm. Code.
6.3 FLOODFRINGE DISTRICT
1) No modification or addition shall be allowed to any nonconforming structure or any structure with
a nonconforming use unless such modification or addition has been granted a permit or variance
by the municipality and meets the requirements of s. 4.3 except where s. 6.3(2) is applicable.
2) Where compliance with the provisions of subd. (1) would result in unnecessary hardship and only
where the structure will not be used for human habitation or be associated with a high flood
damage potential, the Board of Appeals, using the procedures established in s. 7.3, may grant a
variance from those provisions of subd. (1) for modifications or additions using the criteria listed
28
below. Modifications or additions which are protected to elevations lower than the flood
protection elevation may be permitted if:
a) No floor is allowed below the regional flood elevation for residential or commercial
structures;
b) Human lives are not endangered;
c) Public facilities, such as water or sewer, shall not be installed;
d) Flood depths shall not exceed two feet;
e) Flood velocities shall not exceed two feet per second; and
f) The structure shall not be used for storage of materials as described in s. 4.3(5).
3) All new private sewage disposal systems, or addition to, replacement, repair or maintenance of a
private sewage disposal system shall meet all the applicable provisions of all local ordinances, s.
7.5 (3) and ch. SPS 383, Wis. Adm. Code.
4) All new wells, or addition to, replacement, repair, or maintenance of a well shall meet the
applicable provisions of this ordinance, s. 7.5 (3) and ch. NR 811 and NR 812, Wis. Adm. Code.
6.5 COASTAL FLOODPLAIN DISTRICT (CFD)
1) New construction and substantial improvement shall meet the standards of s. 5.3.
2) No structural repairs, modifications or additions to an existing building, the cost of which exceeds,
over the life of the existing building, 50% of its present equalized assessed value, may be allowed
in a coastal floodplain area unless the entire building is permanently changed to conform with the
standards prescribed in s. 5.3.
7.0 ADMINISTRATION
Where a zoning administrator, planning agency or a board of appeals has already been appointed to
administer a zoning ordinance adopted under ss. 59.69, 59.692 or 62.23(7), Stats ., these officials
shall also administer this ordinance.
7.1 FLOODPLAIN ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
1) DUTIES AND POWERS
The floodplain zoning administrator is authorized to administer this ordinance and shall have the
following duties and powers:
a) Advise applicants of the ordinance provisions, assist in preparing permit applications and
appeals, and assure that the regional flood elevation for the proposed development is shown
on all permit applications.
b) Issue permits and inspect properties for compliance with provisions of this ordinance and
issue certificates of compliance where appropriate
c) Inspect and assess all damaged floodplain structures to determine if substantial damage to
the structures has occurred.
29
d) Keep records of all official actions such as:
1. All permits issued, inspections made, and work approved;
2. Documentation of certified lowest floor and regional flood elevations;
3. Floodproofing certificates.
4. Water surface profiles, floodplain zoning maps and ordinances, nonconforming uses
and structures including changes, appeals, variances and amendments.
5. All substantial damage assessment reports for floodplain structures.
6. List of nonconforming structures and uses.
7. In the Coastal Floodplain District, documentation of the certified elevation of the bottom
of the lowest horizontal structural member of new construction and substantial
improvements.
8. In the Coastal Floodplain District, certification by a licensed professional engineer or
architect where required for new construction and substantial improvement under s. 5.3
e) Submit copies of the following items to the Department Regional office:
1. Within 10 days of the decision, a copy of any decisions on variances, appeals for map
or text interpretations, and map or text amendments;
2. Copies of case-by-case analyses and other required information.
3. Copies of substantial damage assessments performed and all related correspondence
concerning the assessments.
f) Investigate, prepare reports, and report violations of this ordinance to the municipal zoning
agency and attorney for prosecution. Copies of the reports shall also be sent to the
Department Regional office.
g) Submit copies of amendments to the FEMA Regional office.
2) LAND USE PERMIT
A land use permit shall be obtained before any development; repair, modification, or addition to
an existing structure; or change in the use of a building or structure, including sewer and water
facilities, may be initiated. Application to the floodplain zoning administrator shall include:
a) GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Name and address of the applicant, property owner and contractor;
2. Legal description, proposed use, and whether it is new construction or a modification;
b) SITE DEVELOPMENT PLAN
A site plan drawn to scale shall be submitted with the permit application form and shall
contain:
1. Location, dimensions, area and elevation of the lot;
2. Location of the ordinary highwater mark of any abutting navigable waterways;
3. Location of any structures with distances measured from the lot lines and street center
lines;
30
4. Location of any existing or proposed on-site sewage systems or private water supply
systems;
5. Location and elevation of existing or future access roads;
6. Location of floodplain and floodway limits as determined from the official floodplain zoning
maps;
7. The elevation of the lowest floor of proposed buildings and any fill using the vertical datum
from the adopted study – either National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) or North
American Vertical Datum (NAVD);
8. Data sufficient to determine the regional flood elevation in NGVD or NAVD at the location
of the development and to determine whether or not the requirements of s. 3.0 or 4.0 are
met; and
9. Data to determine if the proposed development will cause an obstruction to flow or an
increase in regional flood height or discharge according to s. 2.1. This may include any of
the information noted in s. 3.3(1).
c) HYDRAULIC AND HYDROLOGIC STUDIES TO ANALYZE DEVELOPMENT
All hydraulic and hydrologic studies shall be completed under the direct supervision of a
professional engineer registered in the State. The study contractor shall be responsible for
the technical adequacy of the study. All studies shall be reviewed and approved by the
Department.
1. Zone A floodplains and in AE zones within which a floodway is not delineated:
a. Hydrology
i. The appropriate method shall be based on the standards in ch. NR 116.07(3),
Wis. Admin. Code, Hydrologic Analysis: Determination of Regional Flood
Discharge.
b. Hydraulic modeling
The regional flood elevation shall be based on the standards in ch. NR 116.07(4), Wis.
Admin. Code, Hydraulic Analysis: Determination of Regional Flood Elevation and the
following:
i. determination of the required limits of the hydraulic model shall be based on
detailed study information for downstream structures (dam, bridge, culvert) to
determine adequate starting WSEL for the study.
ii. channel sections must be surveyed.
iii. minimum four-foot contour data in the overbanks shall be used for the
development of cross section overbank and floodplain mapping.
iv. a maximum distance of 500 feet between cross sections is allowed in developed
areas with additional intermediate cross sections required at transitions in
channel bottom slope including a survey of the channel at each location.
v. the most current version of HEC-RAS shall be used.
vi. a survey of bridge and culvert openings and the top of road is required at each
structure.
31
vii. additional cross sections are required at the downstream and upstream limits of
the proposed development and any necessary intermediate locations based on
the length of the reach if greater than 500 feet.
viii. standard accepted engineering practices shall be used when assigning
parameters for the base model such as flow, Manning’s N values, expansion and
contraction coefficients or effective flow limits. The base model shall be
calibrated to past flooding data such as high-water marks to determine the
reasonableness of the model results. If no historical data is available, adequate
justification shall be provided for any parameters outside standard accepted
engineering practices.
ix. the model must extend past the upstream limit of the difference in the existing
and proposed flood profiles in order to provide a tie-in to existing studies. The
height difference between the proposed flood profile and the existing study
profiles shall be no more than 0.00 feet.
c. Mapping
A work map of the reach studied shall be provided, showing all cross-section locations,
floodway/floodplain limits based on best available topographic data, geographic limits
of the proposed development and whether the proposed development is located in th e
floodway.
i. If the proposed development is located outside of the floodway, then it is
determined to have no impact on the regional flood elevation.
ii. If any part of the proposed development is in the floodway, it must be added to
the base model to show the difference between existing and proposed
conditions. The study must ensure that all coefficients remain the same as in the
existing model, unless adequate justification based on standard accepted
engineering practices is provided.
2. Zone AE Floodplains
a. Hydrology
If the proposed hydrology will change the existing study, the appropriate method to be
used shall be based on ch. NR 116.07(3), Wis. Admin. Code, Hydrologic Analysis:
Determination of Regional Flood Discharge.
b. Hydraulic model
The regional flood elevation shall be based on the standards in ch. NR 116.07(4), Wis.
Admin. Code, Hydraulic Analysis: Determination of Regional Flood Elevation and the
following:
i. Duplicate Effective Model
The effective model shall be reproduced to ensure correct transference of the
model data and to allow integration of the revised data to provide a continuous
FIS model upstream and downstream of the revised reach. If data from the
effective model is available, models shall be generated that duplicate the FIS
profiles and the elevations shown in the Floodway Data Table in the FIS report to
within 0.1 foot.
ii. Corrected Effective Model.
The Corrected Effective Model shall not include any man-made physical
changes since the effective model date but shall import the model into the most
current version of HEC-RAS for Department review.
32
iii. Existing (Pre-Project Conditions) Model.
The Existing Model shall be required to support conclusions about the actual
impacts of the project associated with the Revised (Post-Project) Model or to
establish more up-to-date models on which to base the Revised (Post-Project)
Model.
iv. Revised (Post-Project Conditions) Model.
The Revised (Post-Project Conditions) Model shall incorporate the Existing
Model and any proposed changes to the topography caused by the proposed
development. This model shall reflect proposed conditions.
v. All changes to the Duplicate Effective Model and subsequent models must be
supported by certified topographic information, bridge plans, construction plans
and survey notes.
vi. Changes to the hydraulic models shall be limited to the stream reach for which
the revision is being requested. Cross sections upstream and downstream of
the revised reach shall be identical to those in the effective model and result in
water surface elevations and top widths computed by the revised models
matching those in the effective models upstream and downstream of the revised
reach as required. The Effective Model shall not be truncated.
c. Mapping
Maps and associated engineering data shall be submitted to the Department for
review which meet the following conditions:
i. Consistency between the revised hydraulic models, the revised floodplain and
floodway delineations, the revised flood profiles, topographic work map,
annotated FIRMs and/or Flood Boundary Floodway Maps (FBFMs), construction
plans, bridge plans.
ii. Certified topographic map of suitable scale, contour interval, and a planimetric
map showing the applicable items. If a digital version of the map is available, it
may be submitted in order that the FIRM may be more easily revised.
iii. Annotated FIRM panel showing the revised 1% and 0.2% annual chance
floodplains and floodway boundaries.
iv. If an annotated FIRM and/or FBFM and digital mapping data (GIS or CADD) are
used, then all supporting documentation or metadata must be included with the
data submission along with the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) projection
and State Plane Coordinate System in accordance with FEMA mapping
specifications.
v. The revised floodplain boundaries shall tie into the effective floodplain
boundaries.
vi. All cross sections from the effective model shall be labeled in accordance with
the effective map and a cross section lookup table shall be included to relate to
the model input numbering scheme.
vii. Both the current and proposed floodways shall be shown on the map.
viii. The stream centerline, or profile baseline used to measure stream distances in
the model shall be visible on the map.
33
d) EXPIRATION
All permits issued under the authority of this ordinance shall expire no more than 180 days
after issuance. The permit may be extended for a maximum of 180 days for good and
sufficient cause. If the permitted work has not started within 180 days of the permit date, the
development must comply with any regulation, including any revision to the FIRM or FIS, that
took effect after the permit date.
3) CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE
No land shall be occupied or used, and no building which is hereafter constructed, altered, added
to, modified, repaired, rebuilt, or replaced shall be occupied until a certificate of compliance is
issued by the floodplain zoning administrator, except where no permit is required, subject to the
following provisions:
a) The certificate of compliance shall show that the building or premises or part thereof, and
the proposed use, conform to the provisions of this ordinance;
b) Application for such certificate shall be concurrent with the application for a permit;
c) If all ordinance provisions are met, the certificate of compliance shall be issued within 10
days after written notification that the permitted work is completed;
d) The applicant shall submit a certification signed by a registered professional engineer,
architect, or land surveyor that the fill, lowest floor and floodproofing elevations are in
compliance with the permit issued. Floodproofing measures also require certification by a
registered professional engineer or architect that the requirements of s. 7.5 are m et.
e) Where applicable pursuant to s. 5.1(4), the applicant must submit a certification by a
registered professional engineer or surveyor of the elevation of the bottom of the lowest
horizontal structural member supporting the lowest floor (excluding pilings or columns), and
an indication of whether the structure contains a basement.
f) Where applicable pursuant to s. 5.1(4), the applicant must submit certifications by a
registered professional engineer or architect that the structural design and methods of
construction meet accepted standards of practice as required by s. 5.1(4).
4) OTHER PERMITS
Prior to obtaining a floodplain development permit the applicant must secure all necessary permits
from federal, state, and local agencies, including but not limited to those required by the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers under s. 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, Amendments of 1972,
33 U.S.C. 1344.
7.2 ZONING AGENCY
1) The City of Superior Plan Commission shall:
a) oversee the functions of the office of the floodplain zoning administrator; and
b) review and advise the governing body on all proposed amendments to this ordinance, maps,
and text.
c) publish adequate notice pursuant to Ch. 985, Stats., specifying the date, time, place, and
subject of the public hearing.
2) The City of Superior Plan Commission shall not:
34
a) grant variances to the terms of the ordinance in place of action by the Board of Appeals; or
b) amend the text or zoning maps in place of official action by the governing body.
7.3 BOARD OF APPEALS
The Board of Appeals, created under s. 62.23(7)(e), Stats., for cities, is hereby authorized or shall be
appointed to act for the purposes of this ordinance. The Board shall exercise the powers conferred
by Wisconsin Statutes and adopt rules for the conduct of business. The floodplain zoning
administrator shall not be the secretary of the Board.
1) POWERS AND DUTIES
The Board of Appeals shall:
a) Appeals - Hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is an error in any order,
requirement, decision or determination made by an administrative official in the enforcement
or administration of this ordinance;
b) Boundary Disputes - Hear and decide disputes concerning the district boundaries shown on
the official floodplain zoning map; and
c) Variances - Hear and decide, upon appeal, variances from the ordinance standards.
2) APPEALS TO THE BOARD
a) Appeals to the board may be taken by any person aggrieved, or by any officer or department
of the municipality affected by any decision of the floodplain zoning administrator or other
administrative officer. Such appeal shall be taken within 30 days unless otherwise provided
by the rules of the board, by filing with the official whose decision is in question, and with the
board, a notice of appeal specifying the reasons for the appeal. The official whose decision
is in question shall transmit to the board all records regarding the matter appealed.
b) NOTICE AND HEARING FOR APPEALS INCLUDING VARIANCES
1. Notice - The board shall:
a. Fix a reasonable time for the hearing;
b. Publish adequate notice pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes, specifying the date, time,
place, and subject of the hearing; and
c. Assure that notice shall be mailed to the parties in interest and the Department
Regional office at least 10 days in advance of the hearing.
2. Hearing - Any party may appear in person or by agent. The board shall:
a. Resolve boundary disputes according to s. 7.3(3);
b. Decide variance applications according to s. 7.3(4); and
c. Decide appeals of permit denials according to s. 7.4.
c) DECISION: The final decision regarding the appeal or variance application shall:
1. Be made within a reasonable time;
2. Be sent to the Department Regional office within 10 days of the decision;
3. Be a written determination signed by the chairman or secretary of the Board;
4. State the specific facts which are the basis for the Board's decision;
35
5. Either affirm, reverse, vary or modify the order, requirement, decision, or determination
appealed, in whole or in part, dismiss the appeal for lack of jurisdiction or grant or deny the
variance application; and
6. Include the reasons for granting an appeal, describing the hardship demonstrated by the
applicant in the case of a variance, clearly stated in the recorded minutes of the Board
proceedings.
3) BOUNDARY DISPUTES
The following procedure shall be used by the Board in hearing disputes concerning floodplain
district boundaries:
a) If a floodplain district boundary is established by approximate or detailed floodplain
studies, the flood elevations or profiles shall prevail in locating the boundary.
b) The person contesting the boundary location shall be given a reasonable
opportunity to present arguments and technical evidence to the Board; and
c) If the boundary is incorrectly mapped, the Board should inform the zoning
committee or the person contesting the boundary location to petition the governing
body for a map amendment according to s. 8.0 Amendments.
4) VARIANCE
a) The Board may, upon appeal, grant a variance from the standards of this ordinance if an
applicant convincingly demonstrates that:
1. Literal enforcement of the ordinance will cause unnecessary hardship;
2. The hardship is due to adoption of the floodplain ordinance and unique property
conditions, not common to adjacent lots or premises. In such case the ordinance or map
must be amended;
3. The variance is not contrary to the public interest; and
4. The variance is consistent with the purpose of this ordinance in s. 1.3.
b) In addition to the criteria in subd. (a), to qualify for a variance under FEMA regulations, the
Board must find that the following criteria have been met:
1. The variance shall not cause any increase in the regional flood elevation;
2. The applicant has shown good and sufficient cause for issuance of the variance;
3. Failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship;
4. Granting the variance will not result in additional threats to public safety, extraordinary
expense, create a nuisance, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with
existing local laws or ordinances;
5. The variance granted is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford
relief.
c) A variance shall not:
36
1. Grant, extend or increase any use prohibited in the zoning district;
2. Be granted for a hardship based solely on an economic gain or loss;
3. Be granted for a hardship which is self-created.
4. Damage the rights or property values of other persons in the area;
5. Allow actions without the amendments to this ordinance or map(s) required in s. 8.0
Amendments; and
6. Allow any alteration of an historic structure, including its use, which would preclude its
continued designation as an historic structure.
d) When a floodplain variance is granted, the Board shall notify the applicant in writing that it
may increase risks to life and property and flood insurance premiums could increase up to
$25.00 per $100.00 of coverage. A copy shall be maintained with the variance record.
7.4 TO REVIEW APPEALS OF PERMIT DENIALS
(1) The Zoning Agency (s. 7.2) or Board shall review all data related to the appeal. This may include:
a. Permit application data listed in s. 7.1(2);
b. Floodway/floodfringe determination data in s. 5.1(5);
c. Data listed in s. 3.3(1)(b) where the applicant has not submitted this information to the
floodplain zoning administrator; and
d. Other data submitted with the application or submitted to the Board with the appeal.
(2) For appeals of all denied permits the Board shall:
a. Follow the procedures of s. 7.3;
b. Consider zoning agency recommendations; and
c. Either uphold the denial or grant the appeal.
(3) For appeals concerning increases in regional flood elevation the Board shall:
a. Uphold the denial where the Board agrees with the data showing an increase in flood
elevation. Increases may only be allowed after amending the flood profile and map and all
appropriate legal arrangements are made with all adversely affected property owne rs as per
the requirements of s. 8.0 Amendments; and
b. Grant the appeal where the Board agrees that the data properly demonstrates that the
project does not cause an increase provided no other reasons for denial exist.
37
7.5 FLOODPROOFING STANDARDS
(1) No permit or variance shall be issued for a non-residential structure designed to be watertight
below the regional flood elevation until the applicant submits a plan certified by a registered
professional engineer or architect that the floodproofing measures will protect the structure or
development to or above the flood protection elevation and submits a FEMA Floodproofing
Certificate. Floodproofing is not an alternative to the development standards in ss. 2.0, 3.0, 4.0,
5.1, or 5.3.
(2) For a structure designed to allow the entry of floodwaters, no permit or variance shall be issued
until the applicant submits a plan either:
a. certified by a registered professional engineer or architect; or
b. meeting or exceeding the following standards:
1. a minimum of two openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch
for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding;
2. the bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade; and
3. openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or
devices provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of floodwaters.
(3) Floodproofing measures shall be designed, as appropriate, to:
a. Withstand flood pressures, depths, velocities, uplift and impact forces and other regional
flood factors;
b. Protect structures to the flood protection elevation;
c. Anchor structures to foundations to resist flotation and lateral movement;
d. Minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters;
e. Minimize or eliminate discharges into flood waters;
f. Placement of essential utilities to or above the flood protection elevation; and
g. If any part of the foundation below the flood protection elevation is enclosed, the following
standards shall apply:
1. The enclosed area shall be designed by a registered architect or engineer to allow for
the efficient entry and exit of flood waters without human intervention. A minimum of
two openings must be provided with a minimum net area of at least one square inch
for every one square foot of the enclosed area. The lowest part of the opening can
be no more than 12 inches above the adjacent grade;
2. The parts of the foundation located below the flood protection elevation must be
constructed of flood-resistant materials;
3. Mechanical and utility equipment must be elevated or floodproofed to or above the
flood protection elevation; and
4. The use must be limited to parking, building access or limited storage.
38
7.6 PUBLIC INFORMATION
(1) Place marks on structures to show the depth of inundation during the regional flood.
(2) All maps, engineering data and regulations shall be available and widely distributed.
(3) Real estate transfers should show what floodplain district any real property is in.
8.0 AMENDMENTS
Obstructions or increases may only be permitted if amendments are made to this ordinance, the
official floodplain zoning maps, floodway lines and water surface profiles, in accordance with s. 8.1.
(1) In AE Zones with a mapped floodway, no obstructions or increases shall be permitted unless
the applicant receives a Conditional Letter of Map Revision from FEMA and amendments are
made to this ordinance, the official floodplain zoning maps, floodway lines and water surface
profiles, in accordance with s. 8.1. Any such alterations must be reviewed and approved by
FEMA and the DNR.
(2) In A Zones increases equal to or greater than 1.0 foot may only be permitted if the applicant
receives a Conditional Letter of Map Revision from FEMA and amendments are made to this
ordinance, the official floodplain maps, floodway lines, and water surface profiles, in
accordance with s. 8.1.
8.1 GENERAL
The governing body shall change or supplement the floodplain zoning district boundaries and this
ordinance in the manner outlined in s. 8.2 below. Actions which require an amendment to the
ordinance and/or submittal of a Letter of Map Change (LOMC) include, but are not limited to, the
following:
(1) Any fill or floodway encroachment that obstructs flow causing any increase in the regional
flood height;
(2) Any change to the floodplain boundaries and/or watercourse alterations on the FIRM;
(3) Any changes to any other officially adopted floodplain maps listed in s. 1.5 (2)(b);
(4) Any floodplain fill which raises the elevation of the filled area to a height at or above the flood
protection elevation and is contiguous to land lying outside the floodplain;
(5) Correction of discrepancies between the water surface profiles and floodplain maps;
(6) Any upgrade to a floodplain zoning ordinance text required by s. NR 116.05, Wis. Adm. Code,
or otherwise required by law, or for changes by the municipality; and
(7) All channel relocations and changes to the maps to alter floodway lines or to remove an area
from the floodway or the floodfringe that is based on a base flood elevation from a FIRM
requires prior approval by FEMA.
8.2 PROCEDURES
Ordinance amendments may be made upon petition of any party according to the provisions of s.
62.23, Stats., for cities. The petitions shall include all data required by s. 5.1(5) and 7.1(2). The Land
Use Permit shall not be issued until a Letter of Map Revision is issued by FEMA for the proposed
changes.
39
(1) The proposed amendment shall be referred to the zoning agency for a public hearing and
recommendation to the governing body. The amendment and notice of public hearing
shall be submitted to the Department Regional office for review prior to the hearing. The
amendment procedure shall comply with the provisions of s. 62.23, Stats., for cities .
(2) No amendments shall become effective until reviewed and approved by the Department.
(3) All persons petitioning for a map amendment that obstructs flow causing any increase in
the regional flood height, shall obtain flooding easements or other appropriate legal
arrangements from all adversely affected property owners and notify local units of
government before the amendment can be approved by the governing body.
9.0 ENFORCEMENT AND PENALTIES
Any violation of the provisions of this ordinance by any person shall be unlawful and shall be referred
to the municipal attorney who shall expeditiously prosecute all such violators. A violator shall, upon
conviction, forfeit to the municipality a penalty of not more than $50.00 (fifty dollars), together with a
taxable cost of such action. Each day of continued violation shall constitute a separate offense.
Every violation of this ordinance is a public nuisance, and the creation may be enjoined, and the
maintenance may be abated by action at suit of the municipality, the state, or any citizen thereof
pursuant to s. 87.30, Stats.
10.0 DEFINITIONS
Unless specifically defined, words and phrases in this ordinance shall have their common law
meaning and shall be applied in accordance with their common usage. Words used in the present
tense include the future, the singular number includes the plural and the plural number includes
the singular. The word "may" is permissive, "shall" is mandatory and is not discretionary.
1. A ZONES – Those areas shown on the Official Floodplain Zoning Map which would be inundated
by the regional flood. These areas may be numbered or unnumbered A Zones. The A Zones
may or may not be reflective of flood profiles, depending on the availability of data for a given
area.
2. AH ZONE – See “AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING”.
3. AO ZONE – See “AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING”.
4. ACCESSORY STRUCTURE OR USE – A facility, structure, building or use which is accessory or
incidental to the principal use of a property, structure or building. An accessory structure shall not
be used for human habitation.
5. ALTERATION – An enhancement, upgrade or substantial change or modification other than an
addition or repair to a dwelling or to electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilating, air conditioning and
other systems within a structure.
6. AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING – A designated AO, AH, AR/AO, AR/AH, or VO zone on a
community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) with a 1 percent or greater annual chance of
flooding to an average depth of 1 to 3 feet where a clearly defined channel does not exis t, where
the path of flooding is unpredictable, and where velocity flood may be evident. Such flooding is
characterized by ponding or sheet flow.
7. BASE FLOOD – Means the flood having a one percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in
any given year, as published by FEMA as part of a FIS and depicted on a FIRM.
40
8. BASEMENT – Any enclosed area of a building having its floor sub-grade on all sides.
9. BREAKAWAY WALL – A wall that is not part of the structural support of the building and is
intended through its design and construction to collapse under specific lateral loading forces,
without causing damage to the elevated portion of the building or supporting foundation system.
10. BUILDING – See STRUCTURE.
11. BULKHEAD LINE – A geographic line along a reach of navigable water that has been adopted by
a municipal ordinance and approved by the Department pursuant to s. 30.11, Stats., and which
allows limited filling between this bulkhead line and the original ordinary highwater mark, except
where such filling is prohibited by the floodway provisions of this ordinance.
12. CAMPGROUND – Any parcel of land which is designed, maintained, intended, or used for the
purpose of providing sites for nonpermanent overnight use by 4 or more camping units, or which
is advertised or represented as a camping area.
13. CAMPING UNIT – Any portable device, no more than 400 square feet in area, used as a
temporary shelter, including but not limited to a camping trailer, motor home, bus, van, pick -up
truck, or tent that is fully licensed, if required, and ready for highway use.
14. CERTIFICATE OF COMPLIANCE – A certification that the construction and the use of land or a
building, the elevation of fill or the lowest floor of a structure is in compliance with all of the
provisions of this ordinance.
15. CHANNEL – A natural or artificial watercourse with definite bed and banks to confine and conduct
normal flow of water.
16. COASTAL FLOODPLAIN – An area along the coast of Lake Michigan or Lake Superior which is
inundated by the regional flood and which is also subject to additional hazard due to wave runup.
17. COASTAL HIGH HAZARD AREA – An area of special flood hazard extending from offshore to
the inland limit of a primary frontal dune along an open coast, and any other area subject to high
velocity wave action from storms.
18. CRAWLWAYS or CRAWL SPACE – An enclosed area below the first usable floor of a building,
generally less than five feet in height, used for access to plumbing and electrical utilities.
19. DECK – An unenclosed exterior structure that has no roof or sides and has a permeable floor
which allows the infiltration of precipitation.
20. DEPARTMENT – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
21. DEVELOPMENT – Any artificial change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not
limited to, the construction of buildings, structures or accessory structures; the construction of
additions or alterations to buildings, structures or accessory structures; the repair of any damaged
structure or the improvement or renovation of any structure, regardless of percentage of damage
or improvement; the placement of buildings or structures; subdivision layout and site preparation;
mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations; the storage, deposition
or extraction of materials or equipment; and the installation, repair or removal of public or private
sewage disposal systems or water supply facilities.
22. DRYLAND ACCESS – A vehicular access route which is above the regional flood elevation, and
which connects land located in the floodplain to land outside the floodplain, such as a road with
its surface above regional flood elevation and wide enough for wheeled rescue and relief
vehicles.
41
23. ENCROACHMENT – Any fill, structure, equipment, use or development in the floodway.
24. FEDERAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY (FEMA) – The federal agency that
administers the National Flood Insurance Program.
25. FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM) – A map of a community on which the Federal
Insurance Administration has delineated both the floodplain and the risk premium zones
applicable to the community. This map can only be amended by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency.
26. FLOOD or FLOODING – A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of
normally dry land areas caused by one of the following conditions:
• The overflow or rise of inland waters;
• The rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters from any source;
• The inundation caused by waves or currents of water exceeding anticipated cyclical
levels along the shore of Lake Michigan or Lake Superior; or
• The sudden increase caused by an unusually high-water level in a natural body of water,
accompanied by a severe storm, or by an unanticipated force of nature, such as a seiche,
or by some similarly unusual event.
27. FLOOD FREQUENCY – The probability of a flood occurrence which is determined from statistical
analyses. The frequency of a particular flood event is usually expressed as occurring, on the
average once in a specified number of years or as a percent (%) chance of occurring in any given
year.
28. FLOODFRINGE – That portion of the floodplain outside of the floodway which is covered by flood
waters during the regional flood and associated with standing water rather than flowing water.
29. FLOOD HAZARD BOUNDARY MAP – A map designating approximate flood hazard areas.
Flood hazard areas are designated as unnumbered A-Zones and do not contain floodway lines or
regional flood elevations. This map forms the basis for both the regulatory and ins urance aspects
of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) until superseded by a Flood Insurance Study
and a Flood Insurance Rate Map.
30. FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY – A technical engineering examination, evaluation, and
determination of the local flood hazard areas. It provides maps designating those areas affected
by the regional flood and provides both flood insurance rate zones and base flood elevations and
may provide floodway lines. The flood hazard areas are designated as numbered and
unnumbered A-Zones. Flood Insurance Rate Maps, that accompany the Flood Insurance Study,
form the basis for both the regulatory and the insurance aspects of the National Flood Insurance
Program.
31. FLOODPLAIN – Land which has been or may be covered by flood water during the regional
flood. It includes the floodway and the floodfringe and may include other designated floodplain
areas for regulatory purposes.
32. FLOODPLAIN ISLAND – A natural geologic land formation within the floodplain that is
surrounded, but not covered, by floodwater during the regional flood.
33. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT – Policy and procedures to ensure wise use of floodplains,
including mapping and engineering, mitigation, education, and administration and enforcement of
floodplain regulations.
34. FLOODPLAIN ZONING ADMINISTRATOR - floodplain zoning administrator is authorized to
administer this ordinance and has the duties described in section 7.1 of this ordinance.
42
35. FLOOD PROFILE – A graph or a longitudinal profile line showing the relationship of the water
surface elevation of a flood event to locations of land surface elevations along a stream or river.
36. FLOODPROOFING – Any combination of structural provisions, changes or adjustments to
properties and structures, water and sanitary facilities and contents of buildings subject to
flooding, for the purpose of reducing or eliminating flood damage.
37. FLOOD PROTECTION ELEVATION – An elevation of two feet of freeboard above the Regional
Flood Elevation. (Also see: FREEBOARD.)
38. FLOOD STORAGE – Those floodplain areas where storage of floodwaters has been taken into
account during analysis in reducing the regional flood discharge.
39. FLOODWAY – The channel of a river or stream and those portions of the floodplain adjoining the
channel required to carry the regional flood discharge.
40. FREEBOARD – A safety factor expressed in terms of a specified number of feet above a
calculated flood level. Freeboard compensates for any factors that cause flood heights greater
than those calculated, including ice jams, debris accumulation, wave action, obstruction of bridge
openings and floodways, the effects of watershed urbanization, loss of flood storage areas due to
development and aggregation of the river or stream bed.
41. HABITABLE STRUCTURE – Any structure or portion thereof used or designed for human
habitation.
42. HEARING NOTICE – Publication or posting meeting the requirements of Ch. 985, Stats. For
appeals, a Class 1 notice, published once at least one week (7 days) before the hearing, is
required. For all zoning ordinances and amendments, a Class 2 notice, publ ished twice, once
each week consecutively, the last at least a week (7 days) before the hearing. Local ordinances
or bylaws may require additional notice, exceeding these minimums.
43. HIGH FLOOD DAMAGE POTENTIAL – Damage that could result from flooding that includes any
danger to life or health or any significant economic loss to a structure or building and its contents.
44. HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE – The highest natural elevation of the ground surface prior to
construction next to the proposed walls of a structure.
45. HISTORIC STRUCTURE – Any structure that is either:
• Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places or preliminarily determined by
the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the National
Register;
• Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the Interior as contributing to the
historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily determined by
the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district;
• Individually listed on a state inventory of historic places in states with historic preservation
programs which have been approved by the Secretary of the Interior; or
• Individually listed on a local inventory of historic places in communities with historic
preservation programs that have been certified either by an approved state program, as
determined by the Secretary of the Interior; or by the Secretary of the Interior in states without
approved programs.
46. INCREASE IN REGIONAL FLOOD HEIGHT – A calculated upward rise in the regional flood
elevation greater than 0.00 foot, based on a comparison of existing conditions and proposed
conditions which is directly attributable to development in the floodplain but not attributable to
43
manipulation of mathematical variables such as roughness factors, expansion and contraction
coefficients and discharge.
47. LAND USE – Any nonstructural use made of unimproved or improved real estate. (Also see
DEVELOPMENT.)
48. LOWEST ADJACENT GRADE – Elevation of the lowest ground surface that touches any of the
exterior walls of a building.
49. LOWEST FLOOR – The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An
enclosed space as provided in s. 5.3(2)(f), is not considered the building’s lowest floor.
50. MAINTENANCE – The act or process of ordinary upkeep and repairs, including redecorating,
refinishing, nonstructural repairs, or the replacement of existing fixtures, systems or equipment
with equivalent fixtures, systems, or structures.
51. MANUFACTURED HOME – A structure transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a
permanent chassis and is designed to be used with or without a permanent foundation when
connected to required utilities. The term "manufactured home" includes a mobile home but does
not include a "mobile recreational vehicle."
52. MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION – A parcel (or contiguous parcels)
of land, divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale.
53. MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION, EXISTING – A parcel of land,
divided into two or more manufactured home lots for rent or sale, on which the construction of
facilities for servicing the lots is completed before the effective date of this ordin ance. At a
minimum, this would include the installation of utilities, the construction of streets and either final
site grading or the pouring of concrete pads.
54. MOBILE/MANUFACTURED HOME PARK, EXPANSION TO EXISTING – The preparation of
additional sites by the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured
homes are to be affixed. This includes installation of utilities, construction of streets and either
final site grading, or the pouring of concrete pads.
55. MOBILE RECREATIONAL VEHICLE – A vehicle which is built on a single chassis, 400 square
feet or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection, designed to be self -propelled,
carried or permanently towable by a licensed, light-duty vehicle, is licensed for highway use if
registration is required and is designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling, but as
temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel or seasonal use. Manufactured homes
that are towed or carried onto a parcel of land, but do not remain capable of being towed or
carried, including park model homes, do not fall within the definition of "mobile recreational
vehicles."
56. MODEL, CORRECTED EFFECTIVE – A hydraulic engineering model that corrects any errors
that occur in the Duplicate Effective Model, adds any additional cross sections to the Duplicate
Effective Model, or incorporates more detailed topographic information than that used in the
current effective model.
57. MODEL, DUPLICATE EFFECTIVE – A copy of the hydraulic analysis used in the effective FIS
and referred to as the effective model.
58. MODEL, EFFECTIVE – The hydraulic engineering model that was used to produce the current
effective Flood Insurance Study.
59. MODEL, EXISTING (PRE-PROJECT) – A modification of the Duplicate Effective Model or
44
Corrected Effective Model to reflect any man-made modifications that have occurred within the
floodplain since the date of the effective model but prior to the construction of the project for
which the revision is being requested. If no modification has occurred since the date of the
effective model, then this model would be identical to the Corrected Effective Model or Duplicate
Effective Model.
60. MODEL, REVISED (POST-PROJECT) – A modification of the Existing or Pre-Project Conditions
Model, Duplicate Effective Model or Corrected Effective Model to reflect revised or post -project
conditions.
61. MODERATE WAVE ACTION AREA (MoWA) – A special flood hazard area subject to the
potential for breaking wave heights of greater than or equal to 1.5 feet, but less than 3 feet, where
the primary source of flooding is astronomical tides, storm surges, seiches, and/or tsunamis. A
MoWA is an area within zone AE on a FIRM that is between the inland limit of zone VE and a
Limit of Moderate Wave Action, where identified. (Also known as “coastal A zone”)
62. MUNICIPALITY or MUNICIPAL – The county, city or village governmental units enacting,
administering, and enforcing this zoning ordinance.
63. NAVD or NORTH AMERICAN VERTICAL DATUM – Elevations referenced to mean sea level
datum, 1988 adjustment.
64. NGVD or NATIONAL GEODETIC VERTICAL DATUM – Elevations referenced to mean sea level
datum, 1929 adjustment.
65. NEW CONSTRUCTION – Structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after
the effective date of a floodplain zoning regulation adopted by this community and includes any
subsequent improvements to such structures.
66. NON-FLOOD DISASTER – A fire or an ice storm, tornado, windstorm, mudslide, or other
destructive act of nature, but excludes a flood.
67. NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE – An existing lawful structure or building which is not in
conformity with the dimensional or structural requirements of this ordinance for the area of the
floodplain which it occupies. (For example, an existing residential structure in the floodfringe
district is a conforming use. However, if the lowest floor is lower than the flood protection
elevation, the structure is nonconforming.)
68. NONCONFORMING USE – An existing lawful use or accessory use of a structure or building
which is not in conformity with the provisions of this ordinance for the area of the floodplain which
it occupies. (Such as a residence in the floodway.)
69. OBSTRUCTION TO FLOW – Any development which blocks the conveyance of floodwaters such
that this development alone or together with any future development will cause an increase in
regional flood height.
70. OFFICIAL FLOODPLAIN ZONING MAP – That map, adopted and made part of this ordinance, as
described in s. 1.5(2), which has been approved by the Department and FEMA.
71. OPEN SPACE USE – Those uses having a relatively low flood damage potential and not
involving structures.
72. ORDINARY HIGHWATER MARK – The point on the bank or shore up to which the presence and
action of surface water is so continuous as to leave a distinctive mark such as by erosion,
destruction or prevention of terrestrial vegetation, predominance of aquatic vegetation, or other
easily recognized characteristic.
45
73. PERSON – An individual, or group of individuals, corporation, partnership, association,
municipality, or state agency.
74. PRIMARY FRONTAL DUNE – A continuous or nearly continuous mound or ridge of sand with
relatively steep seaward and landward slopes immediately landward and adjacent to the beach
and subject to erosion and overtopping from high tides and waves during major c oastal storms.
The inland limit of the primary frontal dune occurs at the point where there is a distinct change
from a relatively steep slope to a relatively mild slope.
75. PRIVATE SEWAGE SYSTEM – A sewage treatment and disposal system serving one structure
with a septic tank and soil absorption field located on the same parcel as the structure. It also
means an alternative sewage system approved by the Department of Safety and Professional
Services, including a substitute for the septic tank or soil absorption field, a holding tank, a
system serving more than one structure, or a system located on a different parcel than the
structure.
76. PUBLIC UTILITIES – Those utilities using underground or overhead transmission lines such as
electric, telephone and telegraph, and distribution and collection systems such as water, sanitary
sewer, and storm sewer.
77. REASONABLY SAFE FROM FLOODING – Means base flood waters will not inundate the land or
damage structures to be removed from the floodplain and that any subsurface waters related to
the base flood will not damage existing or proposed buildings.
78. REGIONAL FLOOD – A flood determined to be representative of large floods known to have
occurred in Wisconsin. A regional flood is a flood with a one percent chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year, and if depicted on the FIRM, the RFE is equivalent to the BFE.
79. SAND DUNES – Naturally occurring accumulations of sand in ridges or mounds landward of the
beach.
80. START OF CONSTRUCTION – The date the building permit was issued, provided the actual
start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, placement, or other
improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual start means ei ther the first
placement of permanent construction on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the
installation of piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond initial excavation, or the
placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include
land preparation, such as clearing, grading, and filling, nor does it include the installation of
streets and/or walkways, nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers or
foundations or the erection of temporary forms, nor does it include the installation on the property
of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the
main structure. For an alteration, the actual start of construction means the firs t alteration of any
wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the
external dimensions of the building.
81. STRUCTURE – Any manmade object with form, shape and utility, either permanently or
temporarily attached to, placed upon or set into the ground, stream bed or lakebed, including, but
not limited to, roofed and walled buildings, gas or liquid storage tanks, bridges, dams and
culverts.
82. SUBDIVISION – Has the meaning given in s. 236.02(12), Wis. Stats.
83. SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE – Damage of any origin sustained by a structure, whereby the cost of
restoring the structure to its pre-damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the
equalized assessed value of the structure before the damage occurred.
46
84. SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT – Any repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or
improvement of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the
equalized assessed value of the structure before the improvement or repair is st arted. If the
structure has sustained substantial damage, any repairs are considered substantial improvement
regardless of the work performed. The term does not include either any project for the
improvement of a building required to correct existing health, sanitary or safety code violations
identified by the building official and that are the minimum necessary to assure safe living
conditions; or any alteration of a historic structure provided that the alteration will not preclude the
structure’s continued designation as a historic structure.
85. UNNECESSARY HARDSHIP – Where special conditions affecting a particular property, which
were not self-created, have made strict conformity with restrictions governing areas, setbacks,
frontage, height, or density unnecessarily burdensome or unreasonable in light of the purposes of
the ordinance.
86. VARIANCE – An authorization by the board of adjustment or appeals for the construction or
maintenance of a building or structure in a manner which is inconsistent with dimensional
standards (not uses) contained in the floodplain zoning ordinance.
87. VIOLATION – The failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the
floodplain zoning ordinance. A structure or other development without required permits, lowest
floor elevation documentation, floodproofing certificates or required floodway encroachment
calculations is presumed to be in violation until such time as that documentation is provided.
88. WATERSHED – The entire region contributing runoff or surface water to a watercourse or body of
water.
89. WATER SURFACE PROFILE – A graphical representation showing the elevation of the water
surface of a watercourse for each position along a reach of river or stream at a certain flood flow.
A water surface profile of the regional flood is used in regulating floodplain areas.
90. WELL – means an excavation opening in the ground made by digging, boring, drilling, driving or
other methods, to obtain groundwater regardless of its intended use.
1 of 4www.cardo.design
August 17, 2026
We are thrilled to have an opportunity to work with Superior
and its community on design guidelines for downtown. This
proposal outlines our process, scope, and fee for the work. We
understand this proposal could be the first phase in a larger
effort. This phase is focused on supporting the existing business
owners by harnessing the adaptive reuse potential in downtown.
The second phase could build on this initiative by expanding the
geographic footprint to other neighborhoods or districts.
We are experienced at navigating and balancing multiple
stakeholders, economic realities, and the design principles that
create vibrant communities. Our goal is to help foster a place that
is loved and stands the test of time.
OUR APPROACH
While every city and neighborhood is unique, the principles that define a well-loved place are not. These places are
mixed-use, human-scaled, resilient, and contextual. Many of our most cherished downtowns could be described using
these principles, and downtown Superior is no different. We believe every place should follow these principles and we
collaborate with communities, such as yours, that embrace these ideals. This ideology is our starting point. Then we work
with the community, planning departments, neighborhood leaders, business owners, and many others to ignite change.
We would love to help you create a place that has heart, something that is sorely missing in the development world
today. It is not a coincidence that cardo, the name for ancient main streets, is the root of so many words that mean heart.
Cities, neighborhoods, and main streets are the places where we live, socialize at restaurants, and establish friendships–
they are more than a collection of building products or developments. They are the heart of a community.
DOWNTOWN SUPERIOR DESIGN GUIDELINES
CARDO, URBAN DESIGN & TOWN PLANNING
PROPOSED PROCESS
Our process will follow 3 steps over a roughly 4-month time frame. This work can commence immediately once the client
team is ready and be completed by the end of December. For the purposes of this proposal the point of contact and
client team for this project will be the City of Superior Department of Planning and Development. For simplicity's sake,
this proposal assumes a September 1 commencement date.
1
2
3
Understand
Explore
Implement
September NovemberOctober December
www.cardo.design
STEP 1: UNDERSTAND
We recognize that we are not the experts of your community. The residents, business owners, and local leaders have
a wealth of knowledge to share with us. We will take the time, with the help of the client team, to identify the key
stakeholders and listen to them. Our goal is to understand your community first in order to chart the best path forward.
This strong foundation, built on the experiences of the downtown community, will help us create a stronger set of
guidelines.
1.1 Review Existing Plans
We will review these plans and any others identified by the client team.
• City of Superior 2040 Comprehensive Plan
• City of Superior Zoning Code
1.2 Kick-off Listening Trip
We will travel to Superior to gain a better understanding of the area and host stakeholder meetings. The trip could follow
this agenda and would likely be 1-2 days.
• Kick-off with Client Team: Review scope, schedule, and project goals
• Tour: Walk downtown and Tower Avenue
• Focused Stakeholder Sessions: We will meet with business owners, City Departments, Superior BID, and other groups
we collectively find key to the process. We will work together to identify them and host 60-90 minute sessions in
person, with zoom optional for those that can't attend in person.
• Council Work Session: We will meet with the City Council in a closed session to outline the process and desired
outcomes. This element is critical to build trust and demonstrate transparency with the Council.
• Documentation: Our team will photograph key buildings and areas within downtown.
STEP 2: EXPLORE
During this step, we will produce a draft set of guidelines for all downtown buildings as well as a series of facade
recommendations for up to 15 buildings in the downtown area.
2.1 Prepare Design Guidelines for Downtown Buildings
Based on the information gathered in Step 1, we will create a draft set of guidelines for architecture in the downtown
area. These guidelines will include criteria for the following elements:
• Massing, Composition, and Articulation
• Storefronts
• Lighting
• Materials
2 of 4
Example imagery from other design guidelines and design reviews.
W 3
October 30, 2024
Michael W atkins Architect, llc with Cardo llc © 2024
The design is subject to change. Not for construction.
Block 14, Building D DRAFT
WEST ELEVATION PROPOSED
WEST ELEVATION EXISTING
Note
Dryer vents to match the wall color.
www.cardo.design
2.2 Prepare Draft Facade Recommendations
Our team will identify 15 buildings and provide facade recommendations for each of them. We will obtain the permission
of the individual landowners before commencing on this task. This will be highly visual, providing a before and after
image for each building, as well as a series of bullets briefly explaining the graphic and next steps.
2.3 Explore Trip
After completing the draft design guidelines and the draft facade recommendations, our team will travel to Superior to
share theses with the client team and stakeholder groups from Step 1. The trip could follow this agenda.
• Client Team Meeting: Review draft design guidelines and facade recommendations
• Focused Stakeholder Sessions: We will once again meet with business owners, City Departments, Superior BID,
and other groups we collectively find key to the process and review the draft design guidelines and facade
recommendations with them.
• Individual Facade Meetings: We will meet with each of the 15 owners and review the facade
recommendations with each of them. These will likely be 15-minute meetings.
STEP 3: IMPLEMENT
Using the feedback gathered in Step 2, our team will build consensus by revising the design guidelines and the facade
recommendations for incorporation into the final document.
3.1 Refine Design Guidelines and Facade Recommendations
Both elements of the final document will be formatted into a single .pdf with clear graphics, detailed recommendations,
and highly compelling visuals. The document will be no longer than 25 pages on 11x17 in. paper.
3.2 Share Final Document
Our team will share the final guidelines with the City Council via zoom. An additional trip will be considered an additional
service.
Two examples of work from the region
3 of 4
www.cardo.design
FEE
We are proposing a fee of $29,100. This section outlines the proposed fee for both the project labor and expenses. Please
note the estimated fee by task includes not only the task, but preparation, project management, travel expenses, and
travel time. Work not listed in this proposal shall be considered an additional service.
TASK FEE
1
1.1 Review Existing Plans $1,400
1.2 Kick-off Listening Trip $3,500
Total Fee for Step 1: Understand $4,900
2
2.1 Prepare Design Guidelines for Downtown Buildings $6,500
2.2 Prepare Draft Facade Recommendations $10,000
2.3 Explore Trip $3,500
Total Fee for Step 2: Explore $20,000
3
3.1 Refine Design Guidelines and Facade Recommendations $3,500
3.2 Share Final Document $700
Total Fee for Step 3: Implement $4,200
TOTAL FEE $29,100
PHASE 2: DESIGN GUIDELINES & FACADE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR OTHER AREAS
These guidelines are intended to seamlessly integrate with a potential future phase, which is not included as part of
this scope or fee. Phase 1 is strictly intended for the Downtown area. While the architectural design guidelines will likely
translate well from one neighborhood to another, there may be specific styles or typologies in one neighborhood that do
not exist in another one. New before and after facade examples will need to be selected from the phase 2 neighborhood
or district. This phase could immediately follow this work or begin at a later time that the client team deems appropriate.
If you have any questions about this proposal please do not hesitate to call or email me.
Sincerely,
Patrick Brunner, AICP , CNU-A
Principal & Owner
260.760.4208
patrick@cardo.design
4 of 4
Community Land Trust Policy Framework
1. Overview – The Community Land Trust Policy Framework is designed to establish
criteria that guide the creation, development, and ongoing oversight of land trust home
ownership in the City of Superior. The Framework will set guidelines for a Community
Land Trust organizational partner, eligible buyers of land trust properties, property
conditions, financing, ground leases, methods of acquisition and CLT conversion, and
other criteria as the City of Superior deems appropriate and necessary.
2. The Community Land Trust organizational partner (CLT) shall meet criteria that includes
but is not limited to the following:
a. The CLT exists to:
i. Create and preserve perpetually affordable homeownership that stays with
a property from one owner to the next;
ii. Stabilize neighborhoods and prevent displacement;
iii. Allow low- and moderate-income households to build limited equity;
iv. Assist home buyers to begin building wealth sooner, or at a higher price
point, or in a higher-quality home than conventional ownership models
would otherwise allow.
b. The City of Superior shall establish a partnership or partnerships with CLTs that
meet the following criteria:
i. Has the capacity to acquire and hold land for the benefit of developing and
preserving affordable housing in the City of Superior;
ii. Currently owns or intends to own land for the purpose of selling housing
units located on the land and leasing the land under a ground lease or deed
restriction equivalent with terms to last 99 years;
iii. Has the capacity to determine appropriate buyer, financing, and property
eligibility for land trust purchases, conversions, and sales.
iv. Has the capacity to conduct annual and regular meetings with CLT home
owners, and provide services as necessary to the home owners on CLT
land;
v. Has adopted articles of incorporation or bylaws, or an equivalent
document stating that on discontinuance of the organization by dissolution
or the discontinuance of CLT activities, the assets related to CLT activities
shall be transferred to the City of Superior or an organization of the City’s
choosing;
vi. Is not controlled by, nor receives direction from, a for-profit entity or
corporation.
3. Eligible buyers of a CLT property shall
a. Occupy the property as their primary residence and ensure that the property is
continuously occupied by a person or persons who meet the definition of an
owner-occupant;
b. Qualify as first-time homebuyers;
c. Qualify as low- to moderate-income households as defined by the CLT or industry
standards;
d. Attend home buyer education as approved by CLT or industry standards;
e. Attend additional pre-purchase education with legal disclosures specific to CLT
properties and a ground lease;
f. Qualify for a prime mortgage using Conventional, FHA, or V A guidelines or an
equivalent product approved by the CLT with a fixed interest rate term not to
exceed 30 years on the first lien.
4. Eligible CLT properties shall
a. Be modest in size and price for the market area;
b. Be placed into CLT ownership with a 99-year ground lease prior to or at the time
of acquisition by a buyer;
c. Pass inspection standards that include but are not limited to
i. A full Uniform Residential Appraisal Report (URAR) regardless of
financing type;
ii. Any additional inspection report or property conditions determined
necessary by the CLT;
iii. Property deficiencies identified by the URAR or CLT-approved inspection
report must be addressed or have a written plan with a budget and time
frame for correction prior to a transaction closing.
d. Remain in habitable conditions as defined by City of Superior Municipal Code,
and lender or CLT requirements.
5. Eligible buyer financing for CLT properties shall
a. Be a prime mortgage of Conventional, FHA, or V A financing or its equivalent;
b. Be and remain eligible for use with a CLT property and ground lease;
c. Have a term not to exceed 30 years as a fixed rate for the first lien;
d. Have terms approved by the CLT that meet mortgage industry standards for any
secondary liens that are down payment assistance at the time of acquisition by the
buyer;
e. Have terms and loan-to-value standards approved by the CLT for any future
refinance loans or second mortgages for the purpose of consolidation or cash-out
refinances to ensure both affordability and appropriate equity distribution.
f. When multiple financing guidelines are considered for qualifications such as
borrower debt-to-income ratios or property loan-to-value requirements, the most
restrictive guidelines shall apply.
6. Eligible Ground Leases shall
a. Be of a 99-year term and be renewable;
b. Clearly explain equity-sharing component and any other property restrictions: or
c. Refer to disclosures by the CLT that explain such requirements.
7. Means of CLT property acquisition
a. New Construction
i. CLT acquires land through donation, public transfer, or purchase
ii. CLT builds housing units or partners with development or local
government for the creation of housing on parcels;
iii. CLT retains ownership of land or real portion of property, with a 99-year
renewable ground lease;
iv. CLT sells homes and improved portions of property to qualified buyers.
b. Buyer-Initiated Acquisition
i. CLT determines buyer and financing eligibility, including initial down
payment assistance amounts;
ii. With CLT and lender approval, buyer places offer on a non-CLT property
listed for sale;
iii. With an accepted offer from seller, CLT conducts any additional property
inspections deemed necessary by lender, CLT, or City guidelines;
iv. Buyer’s lender and/or CLT determines clear and marketable title with
ground lease eligibility;
v. Property converted to joint buyer and CLT ownership with ground lease at
the closing of the purchase.
Source: City of Superior website. First collected Oct 11, 2026.