Pittsburgh, PA Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Freeboard above BFE
- 1.5 feet
- Applies in
- AE and A flood zones
- Administered by
- Zoning Administrator
- Elevation basis
- NAVD 1988 datum
- Governing rule
- FP-O Floodplain Overlay District
Summary
In AE flood zones, Pittsburgh requires new construction and substantial improvements to sit at least 1.5 feet above base flood elevation, per the FP-O Floodplain Overlay District.
In AE Zones, any new construction or substantial improvement shall have the lowest floor (including basement) elevated up to, or above, the regulatory flood elevation as defined in Section 906.02.J. ... REGULATORY FLOOD ELEVATION means the base flood elevation (BFE) or estimated flood height as determined using simplified methods plus a freeboard safety factor of one and one-half (1½) feet.
Full Breakdown
Pittsburgh's FP-O Floodplain Overlay District requires that in AE Zones, new construction or substantial improvements have the lowest floor, including the basement, elevated up to or above the "regulatory flood elevation." The code defines that term as the FEMA base flood elevation plus a 1.5-foot freeboard safety factor. Non-residential structures may floodproof instead of elevate. The Zoning Administrator reviews applications, which must include an elevation certificate and, for AE-zone development affecting the floodway, an engineer-certified no-rise analysis.
Violations & Fines
Building below the regulatory flood elevation without an approved floodproofing design or Zoning Board of Adjustment variance is a zoning violation subject to permit denial or revocation, and can also void National Flood Insurance Program coverage for the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far above base flood elevation must a Pittsburgh home be built?
Can a non-residential building floodproof instead of elevate?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pittsburgh
Compare Pittsburgh to another location·View the Pennsylvania environmental rules overview
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Flood Elevation Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Allegheny County handle flood elevation requirements.