Roswell, GA Environmental Rules: Flood Elevation Requirements (2026)
Key Facts
- Freeboard
- 3 ft above base flood elevation
- Alternate freeboard
- 1 ft above future-conditions elevation
- Applies to
- future-conditions floodplain new construction
- Administered by
- Floodplain Ordinance Administrator
Summary
In Roswell, Georgia's flood hazard areas, new residential construction must set the lowest floor at least 3 feet above the base flood elevation, or 1 foot above the future-conditions elevation, whichever is higher.
a. New Construction. New construction of principal residential structures is not allowed within the limits of the future-conditions floodplain unless all requirements of Sec. 12.7.4.C., D. and E. have been met. If all of the requirements... have been met, all new construction must have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated no lower than 3 feet above the base flood elevation or 1 foot above the future-conditions flood elevation, whichever is higher.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 17 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 5).
Full Breakdown
Roswell, Georgia's flood damage prevention ordinance requires new principal residential construction within the future-conditions floodplain to elevate the lowest floor, including any basement, no lower than 3 feet above the base flood elevation or 1 foot above the future-conditions flood elevation, whichever figure is higher. The same standard applies to substantial improvements of existing homes. The Floodplain Ordinance Administrator, the Engineering Director or a designee, reviews site plans, elevation certificates, and floodproofing certifications against FEMA's Flood Insurance Study before any permit issues, and a final Elevation Certificate must be filed after construction is complete.
Violations & Fines
A structure lacking the required elevation certificate or other compliance documentation is presumed to be in violation of the flood ordinance until that proof is provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much freeboard does Roswell, GA require above base flood elevation?
What happens if I build without an elevation certificate?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Roswell
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Flood Elevation Requirements in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fulton County handle flood elevation requirements.