Leon County, FL Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Standard
- ASCE 24 or LDC flood protection elevation
- Critical facilities
- 500-year flood elevation +1 ft
- Governing section
- Sec. 5-1.03, Ch. 5
- Documentation
- FEMA Elevation Certificate required
Summary
Leon County requires buildings in flood hazard areas to meet ASCE 24 elevation standards or the county's flood protection elevation, whichever sets the floor higher.
1612.4.3 Elevation requirements. 1.The minimum elevation requirements shall be as specified in ASCE 24 or the flood protection elevation determined in accordance with the Leon County Land Development Code, whichever is higher... (a)Have the lowest floor elevated or protected to the minimum elevation requirements specified in ASCE 24, the flood protection elevation as determined in accordance with the Leon County Land Development Code, or the 500-year flood elevation plus one (1) foot, whichever is higher; and,
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 12).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 5-1.03 amends the Florida Building Code so new construction in or near flood hazard areas must hit the minimum elevation in ASCE 24 or the flood protection elevation set under the Leon County Land Development Code, whichever is higher: effectively a mandatory freeboard above base flood elevation. Essential facilities (Risk Category III and IV) face a tougher floor: ASCE 24, the LDC flood protection elevation, or the 500-year flood elevation plus one foot, whichever is highest, plus floodproofing so toxic substances can't wash into floodwaters.
Violations & Fines
Building official can deny or revoke a permit for non-compliant elevation; occupancy is withheld until FEMA Elevation Certificate and floodproofing documentation confirm compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Leon County require extra freeboard above base flood elevation?
What's the rule for critical facilities like fire stations?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Leon County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Leon County to another location·View the Florida environmental rules overview
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