1. The smallest practical area of land shall be exposed at any one time during development.
2. When land is exposed during development, the exposure shall be kept to the shortest practical period of time.
3. Temporary vegetation and/or mulching shall be used to protect critical areas exposed during development.
4. Sediment basins (debris basins or silt traps) shall be installed and maintained to remove sediment from run-off waters from land undergoing development.
5. Provisions shall be made to accommodate the increased runoff caused by changed soil and surface conditions during and after development.
6. Permanent final vegetation and structures shall be installed as soon as practical in the development.
7. The development shall be fitted to the topography and soils so as to create the least erosion potential.
8. Wherever feasible, natural vegetation shall be retained and protected.

1. In All Minimum Required Yards - Driveways providing they are not closer than one (1) foot to the property line to which they run approximately parallel to; except that in the event that a common driveway will be used to serve two (2) or more lots, then driveways may be permitted to abut the property line; steps four (4) feet or less above grade projecting not more than four (4) feet into the minimum required yards which are necessary for access to a lot from a street or alley; fire escapes and chimneys projecting not more than thirty (30) inches into the minimum required yards; arbors and trellises; flag poles; bird baths; trees; plants; shrubberies; ornaments; utility poles and wires; and outdoor furniture; fences and walls, subject to the requirements in ARTICLE XIII; and off-street parking as provided for in ARTICLE XI of this ordinance.
2. In Minimum Front Yard Depths - Bay windows projecting three (3) feet or less into the minimum required yard; overhanging eaves and gutters projecting not more than three (3) feet into the minimum required front yard; air conditioning equipment; and awnings and canopies extending not more than six (6) feet into the minimum required front yard.
3. In Minimum Rear Yard Depths - Bay windows, overhanging eaves, and gutters, and air conditioning equipment projecting not more than six (6) feet into the minimum required rear yard; awning and canopies provided they not extend more than ten (10) feet into the minimum required rear yards; uncovered porches, decks, or patios less than three feet above grade extending to property line.
4. In Minimum Side Yard Width - Air conditioning equipment, excluding compressor for central air conditioning unit; and overhanging eaves and gutters, awning and canopies projecting not more than thirty (30) inches into the minimum required side yard, but never closer than three (3) feet from the side lot line; uncovered porches, decks, or patios less than three feet above grade extending to property line.

1. Any lot of record which does not meet the requirements of this ordinance shall be considered a nonconforming lot of record.
2. If two (2) or more lots or combinations of lots and portions of lots with continuous frontage in single ownership are of record at the time of passage or amendment of this ordinance, and if all or part of the lots do not meet the requirements for lot width and area as established by this ordinance, the lands involved shall be considered to be an undivided parcel for the purposes of this ordinance, and no portion of said parcel shall be used or sold which does not meet the lot width and area requirements established by this ordinance, nor shall any division of the parcel be made which leaves remaining any lot with width or area below the requirements stated in this ordinance.
3. Where a single nonconforming lot of record exists having a lot area less than required by the particular zone district wherein said lot is located, development may be permitted on the lot, provided: the lot is located on an existing and improved public street; the lot is of separate ownership from all adjacent and contiguous parcels; the adjacent and contiguous parcels exist as developed building lots or dedicated street right-of-ways precluding acquisition of additional area to achieve conformity; and development proposed on the lot is in conformance with all other requirements of this ordinance. Where a dimensional variance from any minimum yard, setback, etc., is necessary to develop on said lot, an application for dimensional variance shall be submitted for review and approval by the board of adjustments in accordance with ARTICLE XVIII of this ordinance.

1. CONTINUANCE: Except as herein provided, the lawful use of any structure or land existing at the time of the adoption of this ordinance may be continued although such use does not conform to the provisions of this ordinance -- it shall become a legal nonconforming use. However, no nonconforming use or structure may be enlarged or extended beyond its area of use at the time it becomes a legal nonconforming use, unless and until the use is brought into conformance with all provisions of this ordinance. However, if such a structure is removed or destroyed other than by intentional means of the owner, the structure may be reconstructed, but shall not be enlarged, extended, or moved.
2. CHANGE FROM ONE NONCONFORMING USE TO ANOTHER: As regulated by ARTICLE XVIII of this ordinance.
3. TERMINATION: In all cases, the board of adjustments shall hold a public hearing in accordance with the applicable requirements of ARTICLE XVIII of this ordinance. Following that hearing, the board may terminate the right to operate a nonconforming use based on any of the following conditions, and if the decision is to do so, the board shall state its bases, in writing, for such determination.
   1. Nonoperative, nonused, or abandoned for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months providing that the board of adjustments may allow the continuation of such nonconforming use if it is determined that reasons for such nonuse were beyond the owners'/operators' control.
   2. Whenever the structure, in which the nonconforming use is operated, is damaged in any manner whatsoever and the cost of repairing such damage exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market value of such structure in which the nonconforming use is operated and a determination is made by the board of adjustments that this structure should not be reconstructed.
   3. Whenever the structure, in which the nonconforming use is operated, becomes obsolete or substandard under any applicable ordinance of the city and the cost of placing such structure in lawful compliance with the applicable ordinance exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market value of such structure as of the date of the official order under the applicable ordinance and a determination is made by the board of adjustments that this structure should not be reconstructed.
   4. Whenever said nonconforming use is determined to be detrimental or injurious to the public health, safety, or general welfare.
4. ZONE CHANGE: The foregoing provisions shall apply to uses which become legally nonconforming due to zone changes which take place thereafter.

1. CONTINUANCE: Except as herein provided, any lawful nonconforming structure existing at the time of adoption of this ordinance, may be occupied, operated and maintained in a state of good repair, but no non-conforming structure shall be enlarged or extended unless the enlargement or extension can be, and is, made in compliance with all of the provisions of this ordinance.
2. TERMINATION: In all cases the board of adjustments shall hold a public hearing in accordance with the applicable requirements of ARTICLE XVIII of this ordinance. Following that hearing, the board may terminate the right to operate a nonconforming structure based on any of the following conditions, and if the decision is to do so, the board shall state its bases, in writing, for such determination.
   1. Whenever the nonconforming structure is damaged in any manner whatsoever and the cost of repairing such damage exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market value of such structure and a determination is made by the board of adjustments that the structure should not be reconstructed.
   2. Whenever the nonconforming structure becomes obsolete or substandard under any applicable ordinance of the city and the cost of placing such nonconforming structure in lawful compliance with the applicable ordinance exceeds fifty (50) percent of the market value of such nonconforming structure as of the date of the official order under the applicable ordinance and a determination is made by the board of adjustments that the structure should not be reconstructed.
   3. Whenever said nonconforming structure is determined to be detrimental or injurious to the public health, safety, or general welfare.
3. ZONE CHANGE: The foregoing provisions shall apply to structures which become legally nonconforming due to zone changes which take place thereafter.

Nothing in this ordinance shall be deemed to prevent the strengthening or restoring, to a safe condition, of any building, structure, or part thereof declared to be unsafe by any official charged with protecting the public safety, except for the conditions as stated in Section 9.11, B., 3., b., or 9.11, C., 2., b.

1. CONTINUANCE: Except as herein provided, any lawful nonconforming sign existing at the time of adoption of this ordinance, may be continued provided, however, that no such sign shall be changed in any manner unless it is changed in compliance with all provisions of this ordinance.
2. TERMINATION: In all cases the board of adjustments shall hold a public hearing in accordance with the applicable requirements of ARTICLE XVIII of this ordinance. Following that hearing, the board may terminate the right to operate a nonconforming sign based on any of the following conditions and, if the decision is to do so, the board shall state its bases in writing, for such determination.
   1. Not meeting the requirements for sign regulations, as regulated in ARTICLE XIV of this ordinance;
   2. Nonuse or abandonment of said nonconforming sign for a period of twelve (12) consecutive months.
3. ZONE CHANGE: The foregoing provisions shall also apply to signs which become legally nonconforming due to zone changes which take place thereafter.

1. The height limitations of this ordinance shall not apply to such things as: church spires, various types of towers, smoke stacks, other related structures and necessary mechanical appurtenances, etc. provided their construction is in accordance with existing or hereafter adopted ordinances of the city, and is acceptable to the Federal Aviation Agency and the Federal Communication Commission.

1. Where the average depth of existing front yards within three hundred (300) feet of the lot in question and within the same block front, is greater than the minimum front yard depth required by this ordinance, the required minimum front yard depth on such lot shall be modified to be the average depth of said existing front yards.
2. In any residential zone, no front yard shall be required to exceed the average depth of existing front yards on the same side of the street within the same block, when fifty-one (51) percent or more of lots within that block are improved with residential buildings; provided that in no case shall a front yard depth be less than twelve (12) feet.

1. In any subdivision of any existing or proposed development in any multi-family or commercial zones described herein, zoning, building, and occupancy permits may be issued in the following circumstances, for lots which do not abut a minimum frontage along a dedicated right-of-way, or lots with a lot area, yard areas or yard sizes which are less than the minimums therefore required by the area and height regulations established herein for the zone in which such development is located:
   1. A site plan conforming to the provisions of SECTION 9.18 of this ordinance, including all existing and proposed lot and yard areas and sizes in the development, is reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission.
   2. The area of the total development of which such lot is a part, is not less than the minimum total area required for such a development in the zone in which it is located.
   3. The density of the total development of which such lot is a part, is not greater than the maximum density allowed for such a development in the zone in which it is located.
   4. Such lot abuts upon areas within such development, which are either used or proposed for use in common by, or for the benefit of the owners or tenants of such lot and other lots or areas abutting upon such common area, hereinafter identified and referred to as "benefited abutting property", according to the provisions of legally enforceable agreements or land use restrictions, approved by the Planning Commission and the legislative body of the city, and recorded in the office of the County Clerk of Kenton County, Kentucky, which include provisions that:
      1. Specifically identify such common areas by a metes and bounds description thereof.
      2. Specifically identify the owners of such common areas by name and address, and which identify and establish the obligation and duty of such owners, jointly and severally, to cause such common areas and all improvements thereon, including, without limitation, all motor vehicle access drives and parking areas, pedestrian walkways, other paved surfaces, signs, recreational facilities and open spaces, and other aesthetic and environmental amenities, to be maintained and repaired at least to the extent required by any and all governmental agencies having jurisdiction thereof, or any use or activity conducted thereon.
      3. Specifically identify the owners of the benefited abutting property by name and address, and the joint and several obligation thereof to pay a proportionate part of all costs of the aforedescribed maintenance and repair of such common areas and the improvements thereon, secured by a lien therefore in favor of the owners of the common areas upon that portion of the benefited abutting property in which they have an ownership interest.
      4. Specifically identify and establish a legally enforceable right of the city and its successors to enter upon such common areas, through officers, agents, servants, employees and independent contractors thereof, and cause to occur thereon the aforedescribed maintenance and repair of such common areas and the improvements thereon, at the joint and several cost and expense of the owners of any interest in the benefited abutting property, with the payment thereof secured by a lien in favor of the city upon such common areas benefited abutting property.
      5. Identify and establish a legally enforceable right of the owners of each lot or parcel of real estate in such development which does not abut upon a dedicated right-of-way to a paved and unobstructed right-of-way and easement from each of such lots across, over and through such common areas, for motor vehicles and pedestrian access thereto from a dedicated right-of-way.

1. That the proposed use at the particular location is necessary or desirable to provide a service or facility which will contribute to the general well-being of the neighborhood or the community; and
2. That such use will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of persons residing or working in the vicinity, or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity.

1. The board of adjustments may approve, modify, or deny any application for a conditional use permit. If it approves such permit, it may attach necessary conditions such as time limitations, requirements that one or more things be done before the request can be initiated, or conditions of a continuing nature. Any such conditions shall be recorded in the board's minutes and on the conditional use permit, along with a reference to the specific section in the zoning regulation listing the conditional use under consideration. In addition, a certificate of Land Use Restriction shall be filed pursuant to SECTION 9.29 of this ordinance. The board shall have the power to revoke conditional use permits, or variances for noncompliance with the condition thereof. Furthermore, the board shall have the right of action to compel offending structures or uses removed at the cost of the violator and may have judgment in personam for such cost.
2. Granting of a conditional use permit does not exempt the applicant from complying with all of the requirements of this ordinance, the building code, housing code, and other regulations of the city.
3. In any case where a conditional use permit has not been exercised within the limit set by the board or within twelve (12) consecutive calendar months from date of issuance, such conditional use permit shall not revert to its original designation, unless there has been a public hearing. Exercised as set forth in this section, shall mean that binding contracts for the construction of the main building or other improvement has been let; or in the absence of contracts that the main building or other improvement is under construction to a substantial degree, or that prerequisite conditions involving substantial investment shall be under contract, in development, or completed. When construction is not a part of the use, exercised shall mean that the use is in operation in compliance with the conditions as set forth in the permit.
4. The zoning administrator shall review all conditional use permits, except those for which all conditions have been permanently satisfied, at least once annually and shall have the power to inspect the land or structure where the conditional use is located in order to ascertain that the landowner is complying with all of the conditions which are listed on the conditional use permits.

   If the landowner is not complying with all of the conditions listed on the conditional use permit, the zoning administrator shall report the fact in writing to the chairman of the board of adjustments. The report shall state specifically the manner in which the landowner is not complying with the conditions on the conditional use permit, and a copy of the report shall be furnished to the landowner at the same time it is furnished to the chairman of the board of adjustments.

   The board shall hold a hearing on the report within a reasonable time, and notice of the time and place of the hearing shall be furnished to the landowner at least one week prior to the hearing. If the board of adjustments finds that the facts alleged in the report of the zoning administrator are true and that the landowner has taken no steps to comply with them between the date of the report and the date of the hearing, the board of adjustments may authorize the zoning administrator to revoke the conditional use permit and take the necessary legal action to cause the termination of the activity on the land which the conditional use permit authorizes.

5. Once the board of adjustments has completed a conditional use permit and all the conditions required are of such type that they can be completely and permanently satisfied, the zoning administrator, upon request of the applicant, may, if the facts warrant, make a determination that the conditions have been satisfied, and enter the facts which indicate that the conditions have been satisfied and the conclusion in the margin of the copy of the conditional use permit which is on file. Thereafter said use, if it continues to meet the other requirements of this ordinance, will be treated as a permitted use.
6. When an application is made for a conditional use permit for land located within or abutting any residential zoning district, written notice shall be given at least fourteen (14) days in advance of the public hearing on the application to the applicant, administrative official, an owner of every parcel of property adjoining the property to which the application applies and such other persons as this ordinance or board of adjustments bylaws shall direct. Written notice shall be by first class mail with certification by the board's secretary or other officer that the notice was mailed. It shall be the duty of the applicant to furnish to the board the name and address of an owner of each parcel of property as described in this subsection. Records maintained by the property valuation administrator may be relied upon conclusively to determine the identity and address of said owner. In the event such property is in condominium or cooperative forms of ownership, then the person notified by mail shall be the president or chairperson of the owner group which administers property commonly owned by the condominium or cooperative owners. A joint notice may be mailed to two or more co-owners of an adjoining property who are listed in the property valuation administrator's records as having the same address.
7. When any property within the required notification area for a public hearing upon a conditional use permit application is located within an adjoining city, county, or planning unit, notice of the hearing shall be given at least fourteen (14) days in advance of the hearing, by first class mail, to certain public officials, as follows:
   1. If the adjoining property is part of a planning unit, notice shall be given to that unit's planning commission; or
   2. If the adjoining property is not part of a planning unit, notice shall be given to the mayor of the city in which the property is located or, if the property is in an unincorporated area, notice shall be given to the judge/executive of the county in which the property is located.

Where existing buildings are presently unserved by a public sanitary sewer system and are located within a reasonable distance of an existing or newly extended sanitary sewer line, as determined by the legislative body and/or the Northern Kentucky District Board of Health, said building shall be required to connect with the public sanitary sewer system and the private sewage disposal system shall be prohibited.

1. An application for a building permit requesting an inspection of the building, structure, or improvement to be moved or set;
2. A plot plan, footing and foundation plan, and construction plans for any new construction;
3. A statement from the applicable legislative body(s) insuring that all past and current taxes have been paid.
4. Upon receipt of the foregoing items, the building inspector shall inspect said building, structure, or improvements, and the proposed location where same will be set within the legislative body and determine if the proposed development will comply with all applicable codes and regulations.
5. The move and set shall be referred to the zoning administrator for approval or denial of compliance with this ordinance.
6. Upon approval by the zoning administrator and building inspector, a building permit to move and set shall be issued. The legislative body's engineer shall then be notified of same and shall issue a transport permit. The legislative body's engineer or his agent will designate the route to be traveled. The transport permit is good only for the date specified on permit. The transport permit will not be issued if ninety (90) consecutive calendar days or more have lapsed from the date of inspection by the building inspector. The transport permit provided for in this section shall not be in lieu of any other permits which may be required by the legislative body.
7. No transport or building permit to move and set shall be issued until the applicant has first obtained the necessary permits from all applicable agencies.

1. There will be a building investigation fee as established by the legislative body to cover the costs of investigation and inspection for determining the structural soundness of buildings, structures, or improvements to be moved, the fee is payable in advance and must accompany the application provided for herein. This fee is not returnable. If any alterations or improvements to be made are found to be in compliance with the legislative body's applicable codes and regulations, a building permit to move and set will be issued and the fee will be based on the cost of new foundations and all work necessary to place the building or structure in its completed condition in the new location. This fee is in addition to the building investigation fee.
2. No person, corporation, or company shall transport, move, or set any building, structure, or improvement in the jurisdiction of the legislative body, until and unless such person, corporation, or company shall post with the building inspector a good and sufficient indemnity bond in the amount of five thousand dollars ($5,000.00) in favor of the legislative body, which shall cover the cost of any damage or claim to damage to public improvements (e.g., street pavement, curb and gutter, catch basins, sewers) and other damage to private property resulting from the move and set. Such bond shall be made by a surety corporation authorized to do business in the state of Kentucky.

1. Shall be permitted to locate in the rear yard no closer than three (3) feet to any property line. The zoning administrator may allow pools to be located in the side yard if he determines that due to topography, unusual lot shape, or insufficient rear yard area, location of the pool in the rear yard is not possible.
2. Swimming pools which are constructed in-ground shall be required to have a fence or wall, including a self-closing or self-latching door or gate around the pool or the property on which the pool is located. Such fence or wall shall be at least four (4) feet, but not more than seven (7) feet in height (only classes 1, 3, 4, or 5 fences are permitted, as regulated in ARTICLE XIII of this ordinance); such fences or walls shall be constructed in such a manner that a small child may not reach the pool from the street or any property without climbing the fence or wall or opening the gate or door.
3. Swimming pools which are located above-ground shall be required to have a fence or wall, including a self-closing or self-latching door or gate around the pool or property upon which the pool is located. Such fence or wall shall be at least four (4) feet, but not more than seven (7) feet in height (only classes 1, 3, 4, and 5 are permitted as regulated by ARTICLE XIII of this ordinance). Such fence or wall shall be constructed in such a manner that a small child may not reach the pool from the street or any adjacent property without scaling a fence or wall or opening the gate or door. Said wall may be the wall of the above ground pool providing that said wall is at least four (4) feet in height above the surrounding ground level.

   Any access to above ground pools by means of a ladder or stairway shall be provided with a self-closing or self-latching door or gate, or some other device that would prevent a small child from gaining access to the pool by means of a ladder.

4. Glare from lights used to illuminate the swimming pool area shall be directed away from adjacent properties.
5. All swimming pools and associated equipment shall be constructed and erected in accordance with all applicable codes, ordinances, and regulations of the legislative body. Water used in the swimming pool which is obtained from other than a public source, shall be approved by the Northern Kentucky District Health Department.
6. All swimming pools existing at the time of adoption of this ordinance which are unprotected by a surrounding fence or wall, including gates or doors, as regulated herein, shall be required to comply with the provisions of this ordinance section within sixty (60) days after its adoption.

1. Except as herein provided, no swimming pool and associated equipment shall be permitted within any required yards or within the limits of any public right-of-way easement.
2. The swimming pool or the property on which the pool is located shall be surrounded by a fence or wall, including a self-closing and self-latching door or gate (only classes 1, 3, 4, and 5 fences are permitted, as regulated by ARTICLE XIII of this ordinance). Such fence or wall shall be at least five (5) feet in height, but not exceeding the height as permitted herein, and of such construction that a small child may not reach the pool from the street or from adjacent property without climbing the wall or fence or opening a door or gate.

   In lieu of providing a fence or wall as required herein, outdoor pools may be provided with a pool cover in compliance with the Kentucky Building Code and provided the following required safety criteria are met:

   1. The safety standard cover must pass the strength test and be able to withstand at least 490 pounds (equivalent to two adults and a child) on a given 3 foot area.
   2. The cover must be able to drain water within a certain number of minutes so that water does not accumulate and pose a drowning threat to a small child.
   3. The pool cover shall be designed to fit securely over all sides of the pool preventing a small child from lifting the cover or entering the water. The cover shall also have a latch, which cannot become undone or loosened, to secure it in a closed position. If the cover is operated electrically, it shall provide for a manual override in the event of a power failure.
   4. The power disconnect for the pool cover shall be located inside and shall include a visual detector or light which will remain lit at all times when the pool cover is not in place.
   5. That the pool will be kept under observation by a competent person at all times while the pool cover is not in place.
3. Glare from lights used to illuminate the swimming pool area shall be directed away from adjacent properties.
4. All swimming pools and associated equipment of the swimming pool shall be constructed and erected in accordance with all applicable codes, ordinances and regulations of the legislative body. Water used in the operation of the swimming pool, which is obtained from other than a public source, shall be approved by the Northern Kentucky District Health Department.
5. No mechanical device for the reproduction or amplification of sounds used in connection with swimming pools shall create a nuisance to adjacent residential properties.

1. Plan(s) of the subject property drawn to a scale not smaller than one (1) inch equals one hundred (100) feet showing:
   1. The total area in the project;
   2. The present zoning of the subject property and all adjacent properties;
   3. All public and private rights-of-way and easement lines located on or adjacent to the subject property which are proposed to be continued, created, enlarged, relocated, or abandoned.
   4. Existing topography, and approximate delineation of any topographical changes shown by contour with intervals not to exceed five (5) feet;
   5. Delineation of all existing and proposed residential areas in the project with a statement indicating net density of the total project:
      1. Detached housing - location and approximate number of lots, including a typical section(s) identifying approximate lot sizes and dimensions, and setback and height of buildings.
      2. Attached housing - location and description of the various housing types (i.e., townhouses, fourplex, garden apartment, etc.) including approximate heights of typical structures, and the approximate number of units by housing type.
   6. Delineation of all existing and proposed non-residential uses in the project:
      1. Commercial uses - location and type of all uses including approximate number of acres, gross floor area and heights of buildings.
      2. Open Space-Recreation - The approximate amount of area proposed for common open space, including the location of recreational facilities, and identification of unique natural features to be retained.
      3. Other public and semi-public uses - location and type of all uses, including approximate number of acreage, and height of buildings.
   7. Location of proposed pedestrian walkways, identifying approximate dimensions;
   8. Location of proposed streets, identifying approximate dimensions of pavement, right-of-way widths, and grades.
   9. Location of all existing and proposed water, sanitary sewer, and storm drainage lines, indicating approximate pipe sizes. Indication should also be given regarding the provision of electric and telephone service.
   10. Certification from appropriate water and sewer agencies that services will be available.
   11. Identification of the soil types and geologic formations on the subject property, indicating anticipated problems and pro-posed methods of handling said problems.
   12. Other information that may be determined necessary for description and/or to insure proper integration of the pro-posed project in the area.
   13. A schedule of development, including the staging and phasing of:
       1. Residential area, in order of priority, by type of dwelling unit;
       2. Streets, utilities, and other public facility improvements, in order of priority;
       3. Dedication of land to public use or set aside for common ownership; and
       4. Non-residential buildings and uses, in order of priority.

          The aforementioned information required may be combined in any suitable and convenient manner so long as the data required is clearly indicated. A separate plan or drawing for each element is not necessary, but may be provided at the option of the applicant.

1. Plan(s) of the subject property drawn to a scale of not smaller than one (1) inch equals one hundred (100) feet, that identifies and provides the following information:
   1. The existing and proposed finished topography of the subject property shown by contours with intervals not to exceed five (5) feet. Where conditions exist that may require more detailed information on the proposed topography, contours with intervals of less than five (5) feet may be required by the planning commission.
   2. All housing units on the subject property:
      1. Detached housing - Location, arrangement, and number of all lots, including lot dimensions and setbacks, and maximum height of buildings;
      2. Attached housing - Location, height, and arrangement of all buildings indicating the number of units in each building, and, where applicable, location, arrangement and dimensions of all lots.
   3. Location, height, arrangement and identification of all non-residential buildings and uses on the subject property and, where applicable, location and arrangement of all lots with lot dimensions.
   4. Location and arrangement of all common open space areas, and recreational facilities, including lot dimensions. Methods of ownership and operation and maintenance of such lands shall be identified.
   5. Landscaping features, including identification of planting areas and the location, type, and height of walls and fences.
   6. Location of signs indicating their orientation and size and height.
   7. All utility lines and easements:
      1. Water distribution systems, including line sizes, width of easements, type of pipe, location of hydrants and valves, and other appurtenances;
      2. Sanitary sewer system, including pipe sizes, width of easements, gradients, type of pipes, invert elevations, location and type of manholes, the location, type, size of all lift or pumping stations, capacity, and process of any necessary treatment facilities, and other appurtenances;
      3. Storm sewer and natural drainage system, including pipe and culvert sizes, gradients, location of open drainage courses, width of easements, location and size of inlets and catch basins, location and size of retention and/or sedimentation basins, and data indicating the quantity of storm water entering the subject property naturally from areas outside the property, the quantity of flow at each pickup point (inlet), the quantity of storm water generated by development of the subject area, and the quantity of storm water to be discharged at various points to areas outside the subject property.
      4. Other utilities (e.g., electric, telephone, etc.) including the type of service and the width of easements.
   8. Location of all off-street parking, loading and/or unloading, and driveway areas, including typical cross sections, the type of surfacing, dimensions, and the number and arrangement of off-street parking, and loading and/or unloading spaces.
   9. Circulation System:
      1. Pedestrian walkways, including alignment, grades, type of surfacing and width;
      2. Streets, including alignment, grades, type of surfacing, width of pavement and right-of-way, geometric details, and typical cross sections.
   10. Provisions for control of erosion, hillside slippage and sedimentation, indicating the temporary and permanent control practices and measures which will be implemented during all phases of clearing, grading, and construction;
   11. A schedule of development, including the staging and phasing of:
       1. Residential area, in order of priority, by type of dwelling unit;
       2. Streets, utilities, and other public facility improvements, in order of priority;
       3. Dedication of land to public use or set aside for common ownership; and
       4. Non-residential buildings and uses, in order of priority.

          The aforementioned information required may be combined in any suitable and convenient manner so long as the data required is clearly indicated.

The outside storage and/or parking of any trailer, recreational vehicle, camper, boat, or similar type equipment shall be restricted to the rear yard of all lots within the jurisdiction of the legislative body, except as herein provided and in cases where, due to unique conditions, topographic or other, which do not allow use of the rear yard, the board of adjustments may permit such storage to be located in the side yard of the lot following review and approval by said board. The board may impose certain requirements (such as provided in SECTION 9.16 of this ordinance) to insure that said vehicle and related equipment is properly screened from view of adjacent property. In no case shall more than one of the aforementioned vehicles or similar type equipment be permitted outside of an enclosed building on any lot or parcel of land.

Storage and/or parking of any trailer, mobile home, camper, boat, boat on trailer, recreational vehicle, or similar type equipment may be permitted within driveways during the period from May 1 through the following October 15, provided that the following conditions are met: (1) the required off-street parking spaces are available in addition to the space utilized by the aforementioned vehicles or similar type equipment; (2) the stored and/or parked vehicle or equipment shall not extend over any property or right-of-way line; and (3) no more than one such vehicle or piece of similar type equipment is permitted in the driveway at any one time.

1. Development proposed on land areas identified on the Comprehensive Plan as "Physically Restrictive Development Areas" and any other areas which have slopes of 20 percent or greater shall require approval before development may occur. In those areas which are identified in the Comprehensive Plan as "Physically Restrictive Development Areas" and containing slopes less than 20 percent, the requirements contained herein may be waived; if, after review of the proposed site plan by the engineer, it is determined that said development will not result in any significant hillside slippage or soil erosion.
2. No excavation, removal or placement of any soil, foundation placement, or construction of buildings, or structures of any nature within the area identified as Physically Restrictive Development Area in (1) above, may occur until plans and specifications for such work have been submitted in the form of a site plan as regulated by SECTION 9.18 of this ordinance. In addition to site plan requirements, the following shall also be submitted:
   1. Plan(s) which show existing topography and the proposed physical changes necessary for construction, indicating grading (cutting and filling) compaction, erosion sedimentation basins, areas to be defoliated, and any other pertinent information which will change the natural physical features of the site or general area.
   2. Information defining results of subsurface investigation of the area under consideration, including test borings, laboratory tests, engineering tests, and a geological analysis. Such investigation shall be made by a qualified, registered civil engineer and a geologist, indicating that any structural or physical changes proposed in the area will be completed in a manner which will minimize hillside slippage and/or soil erosion.
3. The site plan and other information required in this Section shall be reviewed by the engineer and the Northern Kentucky Area Planning Commission staff, who will recommend to the Planning Commission, or its duly authorized representative, what effect the proposed development will have on hillside slippage and/or soil erosion.

   After consideration of the recommendations, the planning commission, or its duly authorized representative, may authorize use of the site in accordance with the submitted plans.

4. If, after review of the plans required by this section of the ordinance, the planning commission, or its duly authorized representative, determines that said proposed plans will not minimize hillside slippage, the planning commission shall deny a permit for the development of said land.

1.  STATUTORY AUTHORIZATION

   The Legislature of the Commonwealth of Kentucky has in Kentucky Revised Statutes 151.230 delegated to local government units the authority to adopt regulations designed to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare of its citizenry. Therefore, the legislative body of the City of Ryland Heights, Kentucky, hereby adopts the following floodplain management ordinance, as follows:

2.  FINDINGS OF FACT
   1. The flood hazard areas of the City of Ryland Heights are subject to periodic inundation which result in loss of life and property, health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base, all which adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare.
   2. These flood losses are caused by the cumulative effect of obstructions in floodplains causing increased flood height and velocity, and by the location in flood hazard areas of uses vulnerable to floods or hazardous to other lands which are inadequately elevated, flood-proofed, or otherwise protected from flood damage.
3. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

   It is the purpose of this ordinance to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare and to minimize public and private loss due to flooding by provisions designed to:

   1. Restrict or prohibit uses which are dangerous to health, safety, and property due to water erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or in flood height or velocity;
   2. Require that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction;
   3. Control the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers which accommodate or channel flood waters;
   4. Control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase erosion or flood damage, and
   5. Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert floodwaters or which may increase flood hazards to other areas.
4. OBJECTIVES

   The objectives of this ordinance are to:

   1. Protect human life and health;
   2. Minimize expenditure of public money for costly flood control projects;
   3. Minimize the need for rescue and relief efforts associated with flooding and generally undertaken at the expense of the general public;
   4. Minimize prolonged business interruptions;
   5. Minimize damage to public facilities and utilities such as water and gas mains, electric, telephone and sewer lines; streets and bridges located in areas of special flood hazard;
   6. Help maintain a stable tax base by providing for the sound use and development of areas of special flood hazard or other flood-prone areas in such a manner as to minimize future flood blighted areas caused by flooding;
   7. Ensure that potential homebuyers are on notice that property is in a Special Flood Hazard Area; and,
   8. Ensure that those who occupy a Special Flood Hazard Area assume responsibility for their actions.

Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this ordinance shall be interpreted to give them the meaning they have in common usage and to give this ordinance its most reasonable application.

1. All displays shall maintain a minimum of one (1) foot clearance from any property line.
2. Displays shall not be permitted in front yards of six (6) feet or less in depth.

1. Such structures, including support equipment, shall not be permitted within any front yard or side yard (on each side of the lot) in any zone. Such structures may be permitted to extend into the minimum rear yard depth, as defined herein, in all zones, provided that such structures are set back from the rear lot line a minimum of ten (10) feet, and side yard clearances are maintained.
2. Structures may be ground mounted or roof mounted, provided that maximum height limitations are maintained. If the structure is roof mounted, it shall be located in a manner so as to detract as little as possible from the architectural character of the building.
3. Structures shall be constructed to withstand a wind load of eighty (80) miles per hour.
4. Structures shall be grounded electrically and shall not cause to disturb, restrict, or impede the reception of equipment on adjoining properties.

1. Such structures, including tower, mast, antenna, guy wires, support equipment, etc., shall not be permitted within any front yard or side yard (on each side of the lot) in any zone. Such structures may be permitted to extend into the minimum rear yard depth, as defined herein, in all zones, provided that such structures are set back from the rear lot line a minimum of ten (10) feet, and side yard clearances are maintained.
2. Such structures, including tower, mast, antenna, guy wires, support equipment, etc., shall not exceed seventy (70) feet in height, as measured from ground level to the highest point of the structure.
3. Structures shall be constructed to withstand a wind load of eighty (80) miles per hour.
4. Structures shall be grounded electrically and shall not cause to disturb, restrict, or impede the reception of equipment on adjoining properties.

1. LANDS TO WHICH THIS ORDINANCE APPLIES

   This ordinance shall apply to all Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), areas applicable to KRS 151.250 and, as determined by the Floodplain Administrator or other delegated, designated, or qualified community official as determined by the legislative body of the City of Ryland Heights from available technical studies, historical information, and other available and reliable sources, areas within the jurisdiction of the legislative body of the City of Ryland Heights which may be subject to periodic inundation by floodwaters that can adversely affect the public health, safety, and general welfare of the citizens of the City of Ryland Heights.

2. BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREAS

   The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Kenton County, dated May 16, 2013, with the accompanying Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS), other supporting data and any subsequent amendments thereto, are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of these regulations by the City of Ryland Heights, and for those land areas acquired by the City of Ryland Heights through annexation. This FIS and attendant mapping is the minimum area of applicability of this ordinance and may be supplemented by studies for other areas which allow implementation of this ordinance and which are recommended to the City Council by the Floodplain Administrator and are enacted by City Council pursuant to statutes governing land use management regulations. The FIS and/or FIRM are permanent records of the City of Ryland Heights and are on file and available for review by the public during regular business hours at the NKAPC offices at 2332 Royal Drive, Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, 41091.

3. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

   A Development Permit shall be required in conformance with the provision of this ordinance prior to the commencement of any development activities in the special flood hazard areas (SFHA). See Section 9.24.D.2 for instructions and explanation.

   Application for a Development Permit shall be made on forms furnished by the Floodplain Administrator.

4. COMPLIANCE

   No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed, located, extended, converted or structurally altered without full compliance with the terms of this ordinance and other applicable state regulations. Violation of the requirements (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions) shall constitute a misdemeanor. Nothing herein shall prevent the legislative body from taking such lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation.

5. ABROGATION AND GREATER RESTRICTIONS

   This ordinance is not intended to repeal, abrogate, or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this ordinance and another ordinance, easement, covenant or deed restriction conflict or overlap, whichever imposes the more stringent restrictions shall prevail.

6. INTERPRETATION

   In the interpretation and application of this ordinance, all provisions shall be:

   1. Considered minimum requirements;
   2. Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and
   3. Deemed neither to limit nor repeal any other powers granted under state statutes.
7. WARNING AND DISCLAIMER OF LIABILITY

   The degree of flood protection required by this ordinance is considered reasonable for regulatory purposes and is based on scientific and engineering considerations. Larger floods can and will occur on rare occasions. Flood heights may be increased by man-made or natural causes. This ordinance does not imply that land outside the areas of special flood hazard or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damage. This ordinance shall not create liability on the part of the Local Floodplain Administrator of the City of Ryland Heights, any officer or employee, thereof for any flood damages that result from reliance on this ordinance or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.

8. ENFORCEMENT, VIOLATION NOTICE AND PENALTIES
   1. Civil Offense: If, at any time, development occurs which is not in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance including obtaining or complying with the terms and conditions of a floodplain development permit and any approved modifications, such development shall constitute a civil offense.
   2. Notice of Violation: If, at any time, a duly authorized employee or agent of the Floodplain Administrator has reasonable cause to believe that a person has caused development to occur which is not in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance including obtaining or complying with the terms and conditions of a floodplain development permit and any approved modifications thereof, a duly authorized employee of the Floodplain Administrator shall issue a notice to the person responsible for the violation and/or the property owner, stating the facts of the offense or violation, the section of this ordnance and/or of the permit violated, when it occurred, how the violation is to be remedied to bring the development into conformity with this ordinance or with the approved permit, and within what period of time the remedy is to occur, which period of time shall be reasonable and shall be determined by the nature of the violation and whether or not it creates a nuisance or hazard. The remedy may include an order to stop work on the development. The notice shall also state that a citation may be forthcoming in the event that the requested remedies and corrective actions are not taken, which citation will request a civil monetary fine and shall state the maximum fine which could be imposed. See below.
   3. Notice of Citation: If, at any time, a duly authorized employee or agent of the Floodplain Administrator has reasonable cause to believe that a person has caused development to occur which is not in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance including obtaining or complying with the terms and conditions of a floodplain development permit and any approved modifications thereof, a duly authorized employee of the Floodplain Administrator may issue a citation to the offender stating the violation, prior notices of violation issued, how the violation is to be remedied to bring the development into conformity with this ordinance or with the approved permit, and within what period of time the remedy is to occur, and what penalty or penalties are recommended. When a citation is issued, the person to whom the citation is issued shall respond to the citation within seven (7) days of the date the citation is issued by either carrying out the remedies and corrections set forth in the citation, paying the civil fine set forth in the citation or requesting a hearing before the governing body. If the person to whom the citation is issued does not respond to the citation within seven (7) days, that person shall be deemed to have waived the right to a hearing and the determination that a violation occurred shall be considered final.
   4. Penalties:  Violation of the provisions of this ordinance or failure to comply with any of its requirements, including violation of conditions and safeguards established in connection with granting of a variance or special exceptions, shall constitute a Class A misdemeanor offense.  Any person who violates this ordinance or fails to comply with any of its requirements shall, upon conviction thereof, be fined not more than $500.00 and/or imprisoned for not more than 12 months, and in addition, shall pay all costs and expenses involved in the case.  Each day such violation continues shall be considered a separate offense.  Nothing herein contained shall prevent the Floodplain Administrator from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation.

1. DESIGNATION OF LOCAL ADMINISTRATOR

   The legislative body of the City of Ryland Heights hereby appoints the NKAPC’s Deputy Director for Current Planning to administer, implement, and enforce the provisions of this ordinance by granting or denying development permits in accordance with its provisions, and is herein referred to as the Floodplain Administrator.

2. ESTABLISHMENT OF DEVELOPMENT PERMIT

   A Development Permit shall be obtained before any construction or other development begins within any special flood hazard area established in Section 9.24.C.2. Application for a Development Permit shall be made on forms furnished by Floodplain Administrator prior to any development activities, and may include, but not be limited to, the following: plans in duplicate drawn to scale showing the nature, location, dimensions, and elevations of the area in question; existing or proposed structures, fill, storage of materials, drainage facilities; and the location of the foregoing. Endorsement of floodplain administrator is required before a state floodplain construction permit can be processed. Specifically, the following information is required.

   1. Application Stage
      1. Proposed elevation in relation to Mean Sea Level (MSL) of the proposed lowest floor (including basement) of all structures in Zone A and elevation of highest adjacent grade; or
      2. Proposed elevation in relation to Mean Sea Level to which any non-residential structure will be flood-proofed;
      3. All appropriate certifications from a registered professional engineer or architect that the non-residential flood-proofed structure will meet the flood-proofing criteria in Section 9.24.E.2.b and Section 9.24.E.4.b;
      4. Description of the extent to which any watercourse will be altered or relocated as a result of proposed development.
   2. Construction Stage

      Upon placement of the lowest floor, and before construction continues, or flood proofing by whatever construction means, it shall be the duty of the permit holder to submit to the Floodplain Administrator and to the State a certification of the elevation of the lowest floor or flood-proofed elevation, as built, in relation to Mean Sea Level. In AE, A1-30, AH, and A zones where the Community has adopted a regulatory Base Flood Elevation, said certification shall be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a registered land surveyor or professional engineer and certified by same.

      When flood proofing is utilized for a particular structure, said certification shall be prepared by or under the direct supervision of a certified professional engineer or architect. Any continued work undertaken prior to the submission of the certification shall be at the permit holder’s risk. The Floodplain Administrator shall review the lowest floor and flood proofing elevation survey data submitted. Deficiencies detected by such review shall be corrected by the permit holder immediately and prior to further progressive work being permitted to proceed. Failure to submit the survey or failure to make said corrections required hereby, shall be cause to issue a stop-work order for the project.

3. DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE LOCAL ADMINISTRATOR

   The Floodplain Administrator and/or staff is hereby appointed, authorized and directed to administer, implement and enforce the provisions of this ordinance. The Floodplain Administrator is further authorized to render interpretations of this ordinance, which are consistent with its spirit and purpose by granting or denying development permits in accordance with its provisions.

   The duties and responsibilities of the Floodplain Administrator shall include, but not be limited to the following:

   1. Permit Review: Review all development permits to ensure that:
      1. Permit requirements of this ordinance have been satisfied;
      2. All other required state and federal permits have been obtained: review proposed development to assure that all necessary permits have been received from those governmental agencies from which approval is required by Federal or State law, including section 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, 33 U.S.C 1334.;
      3. Flood damages will be reduced in the best possible manner;
      4. The proposed development does not adversely affect the carrying capacity of affected watercourses. For purposes of this ordinance, "adversely affects" means that the cumulative effect of the proposed development when combined with all other existing and anticipated development will increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point.
   2. Review and Use of Any Other Base Flood Data. When base flood elevation data has not been provided in accordance with Article 3, Section B, the Floodplain Administrator shall obtain, review, and reasonably utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal or state agency, or other source, in order to administer the provisions of Article 5. Any such information shall be submitted to the legislative body for adoption.
   3. Notification of Other Agencies:
      1. Notify adjacent communities, the Kentucky Division of Water, and any other federal and/or state agencies with statutory or regulatory authority prior to any alteration or relocation of the watercourse, and
      2. Submit evidence of such notification to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA); and
      3. Assure that the flood carrying capacity within the altered or relocated portion of said watercourse is maintained.
   4. Documentation of Floodplain Development. Obtain and maintain for public inspection and make available as needed the following:
      1. Certification required by Section 9.24.E.2.a (lowest floor elevations) as shown on an accurately completed and certified Elevation Certificate. Verify and record the actual elevation (in relation to Mean Sea Level) of the lowest floor (including basement) of all new and substantially improved structures, in accordance with Section 9.24.D.2.b;
      2. Certification required by Section 9.24.E.2.b (elevation or floodproofing of nonresidential structures) as shown on an accurately completed and certified FEMA floodprooofing certificate. Verify and record the actual elevation (in relation to Mean Sea Level) to which the new and substantially improved structures have been flood-proofed, in accordance with Section 9.24.D.2.a;
      3. Certification required by Section 9.24.E.2.c (elevated structures),
      4. Certification of elevation required by Section 9.24.E.5.a (subdivision standards),
      5. Certification required by Section 9.24.E.2.e (floodway encroachments),
      6. Assure that maintenance is provided within the altered or relocated portion of said watercourse so that the flood-carrying capacity is maintained;
      7. Review certified plans and specifications for compliance; and
      8. Remedial Action. Take action to remedy violations of this ordinance as specified in Section 9.24.C.8.
   5. Map Determinations. Make interpretations where needed, as to the exact location of the boundaries of the special flood hazard areas, for example, where there appears to be a conflict between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions.
      1. Where interpretation is needed as to the exact location of boundaries of the areas of special flood hazard (for example, where there appears to be a conflict between a mapped boundary and actual field conditions) the Floodplain Administrator shall make the necessary interpretation. The person contesting the location of the boundary shall be given a reasonable opportunity to appeal the interpretation as provided in Section 9.24.F.3.a;
      2. When base flood elevation data and floodway data have not been provided in accordance with Section 9.24.C.2, then the Floodplain Administrator shall obtain, review, and reasonable utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal, state, or other source, in order to administer the provisions of Section 9.24.E;
      3. When flood-proofing is utilized for a particular structure, the Floodplain Administrator shall obtain certification from a registered professional engineer or architect, in accordance with Section 9.24.E.2.b a floodproofing certificate;
      4. All records pertaining to the provisions of this ordinance shall be maintained in the office of the Floodplain Administrator and shall be open for public inspection.
   6.  Right of Entry
      1. Whenever necessary to make an inspection to enforce any of the provisions of this ordinance, or whenever the floodplain administrator has reasonable cause to believe that there exists in any structure or upon any premises any condition or ordinance violation which makes such building, structure or premises unsafe, dangerous or hazardous, the floodplain administrator may enter such building, structure or premises at all reasonable times to inspect the same or perform any duty imposed upon the floodplain administrator by this ordinance.
      2. If such structure or premises are occupied, the floodplain administrator shall first present proper credentials and request entry. If such building, structure, or premises are unoccupied, he shall first make a reasonable effort to locate the owner or other persons having charge or control of such request entry.
      3. If entry is refused, the floodplain administrator shall have recourse to every remedy provided by law to secure entry.
      4. When the floodplain administrator shall have first obtained a proper inspection warrant or other remedy provided by law to secure entry, no owner or occupant or any other persons having charge, care or control of any building, structure, or premises shall fail or neglect, after proper request is made as herein provided, to promptly permit entry therein by the floodplain administrator for the purpose of inspection and examination pursuant to this ordinance.
   7.  Stop Work Orders
      1. Upon notice from the floodplain administrator, work on any building, structure or premises that is being done contrary to the provisions of this ordinance shall immediately cease. Such notice shall be in writing and shall be given to the owner of the property, or to his agent, or to the person performing the work, and shall state the conditions under which work may be resumed.
   8. Revocation of Permits
      1. The floodplain administrator may revoke a permit or approval, issued under the provisions of this ordinance, in case there has been any false statement or misrepresentation as to the material fact in the application or plans on which the permit or approval was based.
      2. The floodplain administrator may revoke a permit upon determination that the construction, erection, alteration, repair, moving, demolition, installation, or replacement of the structure for which the permit was issued is in violation of, or not in conformity with, the provisions of this ordinance.
   9. Liability
      1. Any officer, employee, or member of the floodplain administrator’s staff, charged with the enforcement of this ordinance, acting for the applicable governing authority in the discharge of his/her duties, shall not thereby render personally liable, and is hereby relieved from all personal liability, for any damage that may accrue to persons or property as a result of any act required or permitted in the discharge of his/her duties. Any suit brought against any officer, employee, or member because of such act performed by him/her in the enforcement of any provision of this ordinance shall be defended by the department of law until the final termination of the proceedings.
   10.  Expiration of Floodplain Construction Permit
       1. A floodplain development permit, and all provisions contained therein, shall expire if the “start of construction” has not occurred within one hundred and eighty (180) calendar days from the date of its issuance.

1. GENERAL CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS

   In all Special Flood Hazard Areas the following provisions are required:

   1. All new construction and substantial improvements shall be adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement of the structure resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy;
   2. Manufactured homes shall be anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, and lateral movement. Methods of anchoring may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top or frame ties to ground anchors. This standard shall be in addition to and consistent with applicable state requirements for resisting wind forces.
   3. All new construction and substantial improvements shall be constructed with materials and utility equipment resistant to flood damage;
   4. New construction and substantial improvements shall be constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage;
   5. Electrical, heating, ventilation, plumbing, air condition equipment, and other service facilities shall be designed and/or located so as to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the components during conditions of flooding; and if
   6. Within Zones AH or AO, so that there are adequate drainage paths around structures on slopes to guide flood waters around and away from proposed structures.
   7. New and replacement water supply systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the system;
   8. New and replacement sanitary sewage systems shall be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the systems into flood waters;
   9. On-site waste disposal systems shall be located and constructed to avoid impairment to them or contamination from them during flooding;
   10. Any alteration, repair, reconstruction, or improvements to a structure, which is not in compliance with the provisions of this ordinance shall meet the requirements of “new construction” as contained in this ordinance;
   11. Any alteration, repair, reconstruction, or improvements to a structure, which is not in compliance with the provisions of this ordinance, shall be undertaken only if said non-conformity is not furthered, extended, or replaced.
2. SPECIFIC STANDARDS

   In all special flood hazard areas where base flood elevation data have been provided, as set forth in Section 9.24.C.2, the following provisions are required:

   1. Residential Construction. New construction and substantial improvement of any residential structure (including manufactured home) shall have the lowest floor, including basement, mechanical equipment, and ductwork elevated no lower than 2 feet above the base flood elevation. Should solid foundation perimeter walls be used to elevate a structure, openings sufficient to facilitate automatic equalization of hydrostatic flood forces on walls shall be provided in accordance with standards of Section 9.24.E.2.c.
      1. In an AO zone, the lowest floor shall be elevated above the highest adjacent grade to a height equal to or higher than the depth number specified in feet on the FIRM, or elevated at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade if no depth number is specified.
      2. In an A zone, where no technical data has been produced by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Floodplain Administrator will determine the method by which base flood elevations are determined. Methods include, but are not limited to, detailed hydrologic and hydraulic analyses, use of existing data available from other sources, approximate methods, use of historical data, best supportable and reasonable judgement in the event no data can be produced. The lowest floor shall be elevated no lower than 2 feet above such base flood elevation. Title 401 KAR (Kentucky Administrative Regulations) Chapter 4, Regulation 060, Section 5(5)a, states as a part of the technical requirements for a State Floodplain Permit: The applicant shall provide cross sections for determining floodway boundaries (and thereby Base Flood Elevations) at any proposed construction site where FEMA maps are not available. All cross sections shall be referenced to mean sea level and shall have vertical error tolerances of no more than + five-tenths (0.5) foot. Cross sections elevations shall be taken at those points which represent significant breaks in slope and at points where hydraulic characteristics of the base floodplain change. Each cross section shall extend across the entire base floodplain and shall be in the number and at the locations specified by the cabinet. If necessary to ensure that significant flood damage will not occur, the cabinet may require additional cross sections or specific site elevations which extend beyond those needed for making routine regulatory floodway boundary calculations.
      3. In all other Zones, elevated 2 feet above the base flood elevation.

         Upon the completion of the structure, the elevation of the lowest floor (including basement) shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor, and verified by the community building inspection department to be properly elevated. Such certification and verification shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator.

   2. Non-residential Construction. New construction and substantial improvement of any commercial, industrial, or non-residential structure (including manufactured homes used for non-residential purposes) shall be elevated to conform with Section 9.24.E.2.a or together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities:
      1. Be floodproofed to an elevation 2 feet above the level of the base flood elevation so that the structure is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water;
      2. Have structural components capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy and debris;
      3. A registered professional engineer or architect shall certify that the standards of this subsection are satisfied. Such certification along with the design and operational maintenance plans shall be provided to the Floodplain Administrator.
      4. Manufactured homes shall meet the standards in Section 9.24.E.2.d.
      5. All new construction and substantial improvement with fully enclosed areas below the lowest floor (including basements) that are usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage, and which are subject to flooding, shall be constructed of flood resistant materials to an elevation 2 feet above the base flood elevation, and, shall be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwater. Openings for meeting this requirement must meet or exceed the standards of Section 9.24.E.2.c.
   3. Elevated Structures. New construction and substantial improvements of elevated structures on columns, posts, or pilings that include fully enclosed areas formed by foundation and other exterior walls below the lowest floor shall be designed to preclude finished living space and designed to allow for the entry and exit of floodwaters to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on exterior walls.
      1. Openings for complying with this requirement must either be certified by a professional engineer or architect or meet the following minimum criteria:
         1. Provide a minimum of two (2) openings having a total net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding;
         2. The bottom of all openings shall be no higher than one foot above foundation interior grade (which must be equal to in elevation or higher than the exterior foundation grade); and
         3. Openings may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves, or other coverings or devices provided they permit the automatic flow of floodwaters in both directions.
      2. Access to the enclosed area shall be the minimum necessary to allow for parking of vehicles (garage door), limited storage of maintenance equipment used in connection with the premises (standard exterior door), or entry to the living area (stairway or elevator); and
      3. The interior portion of such enclosed areas shall not be finished or partitioned into separate rooms.
   4. Standards for Manufactured Homes and Recreational Vehicles.
      1. All new and substantially improved manufactured homes placed on sites located within A, A1-30, AO, AH, and AE on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) must meet all the requirements for new construction, including elevation and anchoring. Locations include:
         1. On individual lots or parcels,
         2. In expansions to existing manufactured home parks or subdivisions,
         3. In new manufactured home parks or subdivisions or
         4. In substantially improved manufactured home parks or subdivisions,
         5. Outside of a manufactured home park or subdivision, and
         6. In an existing manufactured home park or subdivision on a site upon which a manufactured home has incurred "substantial damage" as the result of a flood,

         All such manufactured homes must be:

         1. Elevated on a permanent foundation, and
         2. Have its lowest floor elevated no lower than 2 feet above the level of the base flood elevation, and
         3. Be securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement. 
      2. Except manufactured homes that have incurred substantial damage as a result of a flood, all manufactured homes placed or substantially improved in an existing manufactured home park or subdivision must be elevated so that:
         1. The manufactured home is securely anchored to an adequately anchored foundation system to resist flotation, collapse and lateral movement, so that either the:
            • The lowest floor of the manufactured home is elevated no lower than 2 feet above the base flood elevation, or
            • The manufactured home chassis is supported by reinforced piers or other foundation elements of at least an equivalent strength, of no less than 36 inches in height above the highest adjacent grade.
      3. All recreational vehicles placed on sites located within A, A1-30, AO, AH, and AE on the community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) must either:
         1. Be on the site for fewer than 180 consecutive days,
         2. Be fully licensed and ready for highway use, or
         3. Meet the permit requirements for new construction of this ordinance, including anchoring and elevation requirements for “manufactured homes”.

         A recreational vehicle is ready for highway use if it is licensed and insured in accordance with the State of Kentucky motor vehicle regulations, is on its wheels or jacking system, is attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities and security devices, and has no permanently attached additions.

   5. Floodways. Located within areas of special flood hazard established in Section 9.24.C.2, are areas designated as floodways. Since the floodway is an extremely hazardous area due to the velocity of flood waters which carry debris, potential projectiles, and has erosion potential, the following provisions shall apply:
      1. Prohibit encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements, and other developments unless certification (with supporting technical data) by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that encroachments shall not result in any increase in the base flood elevation levels during occurrence of base flood discharge;
      2. If Section 9.24.E.2.e is satisfied, all new construction and substantial improvements and other proposed new development shall comply with all applicable flood hazard reduction provisions of Section 9.24.E.
3. STANDARDS FOR STREAMS WITHOUT ESTABLISHED BASE FLOOD ELEVATION AND/OR FLOODWAYS

   Located within the special flood hazard areas established in Section 9.24.C.2, where streams exist but where no base flood data has been provided or where base flood data has been provided without floodways, the following provisions apply:

   1. No encroachments, including fill material or structures shall be located within special flood hazard areas, unless certification by a registered professional engineer is provided demonstrating that the cumulative effect of the proposed development, when combined with all other existing and anticipated development will not increase the water surface elevation of the base flood more than one foot at any point within the community. The engineering certification should be supported by technical data that conforms to standard hydraulic engineering principles.
   2. New construction and substantial improvements of structures shall be elevated or flood proofed to elevations established in accordance with Section 9.24.C.2.
4. STANDARDS FOR SHALLOW FLOODING ZONES

   Located within the special flood hazard areas established in Section 9.24.E.C.2, are areas designated as shallow flooding areas. These areas have flood hazards associated with base flood depths of one to three feet (1 – 3’), where a clearly defined channel does not exist and the water path of flooding is unpredictable and indeterminate; therefore, the following provisions apply:

   1. All new construction and substantial improvements of residential structures shall:
      1. Have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to or above either the base flood elevation or in Zone AO the flood depth specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map above the highest adjacent grade. In Zone AO, if no flood depth is specified, the lowest floor, including basement, shall be elevated no less than two (2) feet above the highest adjacent grade.
   2. All new construction and substantial improvements of non-residential structures shall:
      1. Have the lowest floor, including basement, elevated to or above either the base flood elevation or in Zone AO the flood depth specified on the Flood Insurance Rate Map, above the highest adjacent grade. In Zone AO, if no flood depth is specified, the lowest floor, including basement, shall be elevated no less than two (2) feet above the highest adjacent grade.
      2. Together with attendant utility and sanitary facilities be completely floodproofed either to the base flood elevation or above or, in Zone AO, to or above the specified flood depth plus a minimum of one foot so that any space below that level is watertight with walls substantially impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects of buoyancy. Certification is required as stated in Section 9.24.E.2.b.
5. STANDARDS FOR SUBDIVISION PROPOSALS
   1. All subdivision proposals shall identify the flood hazard area and the elevation of the base flood and be consistent with the need to minimize flood damage;
   2. All subdivision proposals shall have public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical and water systems located and constructed to minimize flood damage;
   3. All subdivision proposals shall have adequate drainage provided to reduce exposure to flood hazards; and,
   4. In areas where base flood elevation and floodway data is not available, base flood elevation and floodway data for subdivision proposals and other proposed development (including manufactured home parks and subdivisions) greater than 50 lots or 5 acres, whichever is the lesser, shall be provided.
   5. All subdivision plans will include the elevation of proposed structure(s) and lowest adjacent grade. If the site is filled above the base flood elevation, the lowest floor and lowest adjacent grade elevations shall be certified by a registered professional engineer or surveyor and provided to the Floodplain Administrator.
6. STANDARDS FOR ACCESSORY STRUCTURES IN ALL ZONES BEGINNING WITH THE LETTER ‘A’

   For all accessory structures in special flood hazard areas designated ‘A’ the following provisions shall apply:

   1. Must be non-habitable;
   2. Must be anchored to resist floatation and lateral movement;
   3. Must be provided with flood openings in accordance with the standards of Section 9.24.E.2.c;
   4. Must be built of flood resistant materials to 2 feet above the base flood elevation;
   5. Must elevate utilities 2 feet above the base flood elevation;
   6. Can only be used for storage or parking; and
   7. Must not be modified for a different use after permitting.
7.  CRITICAL FACILITIES

   Construction of new critical facilities shall be, to the extent possible, located outside the limits of the SFHA (100-year floodplain). Construction of new critical facilities shall not be permissible within the floodway; however, they may be permissible within the SFHA if no feasible alternative site is available. Critical facilities constructed within the SFHA shall have the lowest floor elevated one foot or more above the base flood elevation at the site. Floodproofing and sealing measures must be taken to ensure that toxic substances will not be displaced by or released into floodwaters. Access routes elevated to or above the level of the base flood elevation shall be provided to all critical facilities to the extent possible.

1. Nature Of Variances

   The variance criteria set forth in this section of the ordinance are based on the general principle of zoning law that variances pertain to a piece of property and are not personal in nature. A variance may be granted for a parcel of property with physical characteristics so unusual that complying with the requirements of this ordinance would create an exceptional hardship to the applicant or the surrounding property owners. The characteristics must be unique to the property and not be shared by adjacent parcels. The unique characteristic must pertain to the land itself, not to the structure, its inhabitants, or the property owners.

   It is the duty of the legislative body to help protect its citizens from flooding. This need is so compelling and the implications of the cost of insuring a structure built below flood level is so serious that variances from the flood elevation or from other requirements in the flood ordinance are quite rare. The long-term goal of preventing and reducing flood loss and damage can only be met if variances are strictly limited. Therefore, the variance guidelines provided in this ordinance are more detailed and contain multiple provisions that must be met before a variance can be properly granted. The criteria are designed to screen out those situations in which alternatives other than a variance are more appropriate.

2. Designation of Variance and Appeal Board
   1. The Board of Adjustment shall hear and decide appeals and requests for variances from the requirements of these regulations.
3. Duties of Board of Adjustment
   1. The Board of Adjustment shall hear and decide requests for variances from the requirements of this ordinance and appeals of decisions or determinations made by the Floodplain Administrator in the enforcement or administration of this ordinance.
   2. Any person aggrieved by the decision of the Board of Adjustment may appeal such decision to the Circuit Court, as provided in Kentucky Revised Statutes.
4. Variance Procedures

   In passing upon such applications, the Board of Adjustment shall consider all technical evaluations, all relevant factors, all standards specified in other sections of this ordinance, and the:

   1. Danger that materials may be swept onto other lands to the injury of others;
   2. Danger to life and property due to flooding or erosion damage;
   3. Susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents to flood damage and the effect of such damage on the existing individual owner and future owners of the property;
   4. Importance to the community of the services provided by the existing or proposed facility;
   5. Necessity that the facility be located on a waterfront, in the case of functionally dependent use;
   6. Availability of alternative locations, which are not subject to flooding or erosion damage;
   7. Compatibility of the proposed use with existing and anticipated development;
   8. Relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and floodplain management program for that area;
   9. Safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles;
   10. Expected height, velocity, duration, rate of rise, and sediment transport of the flood waters and the effects of wave action, if applicable, expected at the site; and
   11. Costs of providing governmental services during and after flood conditions, including maintenance and repair of public utilities and facilities such as sewer, gas, electrical, water systems, streets, and bridges and culverts.
5. Conditions for Variances

   Upon consideration of the factors listed above and the purposes of this ordinance, the Board of Adjustment may attach such conditions to the granting of variances as it deems necessary to further the purposes of this ordinance.

   1. Variances shall not be issued within any mapped regulatory floodway if any increase in flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.
   2. Variances shall only be issued upon a determination that the variance is the "minimum necessary" to afford relief considering the flood hazard. "Minimum necessary" means to afford relief with a minimum of deviation from the requirements of this ordinance. For example, in the case of variances to an elevation requirement, this means the legislative body need not grant permission for the applicant to build at grade, or even to whatever elevation the applicant proposes, but only to that elevation which the legislative body believes will both provide relief and preserve the integrity of the local ordinance.
   3. Variances shall only be issued upon:
      1. A showing of good and sufficient cause;
      2. A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship to the applicant; and
      3. A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood height, additional threats to public safety, cause extraordinary public expense, create nuisance (as defined in the definition section under "Public safety and nuisance"), cause fraud or victimization of the public (as defined in the definition section) or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.
   4. Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice specifying the difference between the base flood elevation and the elevation to which the structure is to be built and stating that the cost of flood insurance will be commensurate with the increased risk resulting from the lowest floor being situated below the base flood elevation.
   5. The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain the records of all appeal actions and report any variances to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) upon request
   6. Variances may be issued for new construction, substantial improvement, and other proposed new development necessary for the conduct of a functionally dependent use provided that the provisions of Article 6 (4) are satisfied and that the structure or other development is protected by methods that minimize flood damages during the base flood and does not result in additional threats to public safety and does not create a public nuisance.
6. Variance Notification

   Any applicant to whom a variance is granted shall be given written notice over the signature of a community official that:

   1. The issuance of a variance to construct a structure below the base flood elevation will result in increased premium rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as $25 for $100 of insurance coverage;
   2. Such construction below the base flood level increases risks to life and property. A copy of the notice shall be recorded by the Floodplain Administrator in the Office of the Kenton County Recorder and shall be recorded in a manner so that it appears in the chain of title of the affected parcel of land.
   3. The Floodplain Administrator shall maintain a record of all variance actions, including justification for their issuance or denial, and report such variances issued in the community’s biennial report submission to the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
7.  Historic Structures

   Variances may be issued for the repair or rehabilitation of “historic structures” (see definition) upon determination that the proposed repair or rehabilitation will not preclude the structure’s continued designation as an historic structure and the variance is the minimum necessary to preserve the historic character and design of the structure.

This ordinance and the various parts thereof are hereby declared to be severable. Should any section of this ordinance be declared by the courts to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the ordinance as a whole, or any portion thereof other than the section so declared to be unconstitutional or invalid.

If any clause, sentence, or phrase of the Ordinance is held to be invalid or unconstitutional by any court of competent jurisdiction, then said holding shall not affect the validity of the ordinance as a whole, or any portion thereof other than the section so declared to be unconstitutional or invalid.

This ordinance was adopted at a public meeting of the legislative body of the City of Ryland Heights on March 12, 2013.