Nash County, NC Hurricane Preparedness: Flood Elevation (2026)

Section 12-2.4(D) of the Unified Development Ordinance applies once base flood elevation data exists for the parcel. Under 12-2.4(D)(1), new construction or substantial improvement of a residential structure must have its lowest floor, including any basement, elevated one foot above the base flood elevation; if solid foundation perimeter walls are used to achieve that elevation, the walls must include openings that let floodwaters move through unimpeded. Section 12-2.4(D)(2) gives nonresidential and commercial structures in A-zones an alternative: floodproofing to a watertight standard instead of elevating, certified by a registered engineer or architect. General standards in 12-2.4(C) also require every new structure to be anchored against flotation and lateral movement, built with flood-resistant materials, and to have HVAC, water heaters, electrical panels and similar equipment placed to keep water out during flooding.

Section 12-2.7 sets the permitting mechanics: a zoning or floodplain development permit from the Zoning Administrator is required before any development activity in a flood hazard area, and the application must show the proposed lowest-floor elevation. Where no base flood elevation figure has been mapped, Section 12-2.7(2) sets a flat two-foot-above-highest-adjacent-grade floor instead. After construction, the permit holder must submit a Final As-Built Elevation Certificate (FEMA Form 81-31) or Floodproofing Certificate (FEMA Form 81-65) before the county will issue a Certificate of Compliance or Occupancy. Recreational vehicles, temporary structures and accessory structures under 150 square feet are exempt from the elevation and floodproofing certification requirement.