Augusta-Richmond County, GA Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Freeboard requirement
- 3 feet above Base Flood Elevation
- Governing section
- Code § 8-1-44(a)
- Enforcing agency
- Augusta Planning & Development Department
- Maximum penalty
- $1,000 fine, 60 days jail
- Applies to
- All of Augusta-Richmond County jurisdiction
Summary
Augusta-Richmond County requires new construction and substantial improvements in flood hazard areas to elevate the lowest floor at least three feet above the Base Flood Elevation, exceeding FEMA's minimum standard.
Where Base Flood Elevation data are available, new construction and substantial improvement of any structure, including manufactured homes, and accessory structures not used solely for parking or storage, shall have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than three (3) feet above the Base Flood Elevation (also known as the "flood protection elevation").
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Recodification).
Full Breakdown
Augusta-Richmond County Code Section 8-1-44(a) sets the local freeboard standard: where Base Flood Elevation data exist, new construction and substantial improvements, including manufactured homes and accessory structures not limited to parking or storage, must have the lowest floor, including any basement, elevated no lower than three feet above the Base Flood Elevation, called the flood protection elevation. Heating, air conditioning, electrical, and plumbing equipment must be elevated to the same three-foot mark. Non-residential structures can dry-floodproof to that height instead, certified by a licensed engineer or architect. The Augusta Planning & Development Department administers permits and inspections.
Violations & Fines
Violating the flood elevation standard is a misdemeanor: up to $1,000 fine and 60 days in jail, with each day of noncompliance a separate offense; the County can also sue in Superior Court to force compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much freeboard does Augusta-Richmond County require above the Base Flood Elevation?
Can a non-residential building be floodproofed instead of elevated?
Does this rule cover Blythe and Hephzibah?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Augusta-Richmond County
Compare Augusta-Richmond County to another location·View the Georgia environmental rules overview
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