Franklin County commission amends building code to reflect changes to federal flood insurance program

County commissioners have approved a change to the county’s building code that could save new homes some money on their flood insurance rates – but commissioners were quick to point out that the changes will not allow taller homes in Franklin County.

The County agreed this week to change its requirement for where the first floor of new homes can begin.

Before the change, homes in certain flood zones in the county had to start their first floor 9 feet above grade – limiting the height of homes in the county to no more than 47 feet.

But because of changes to the federal flood insurance program, that may no longer be adequate for new construction.

On Tuesday the county commission agreed to give builders the option of starting their first floors more than 9 feet above grade – that should help them get some discounts on their flood insurance.

But the homes will still be limited to 47 feet total height – so if the 1^st floor of a home starts too high above the base flood elevation the homeowner will have decide whether he would rather save money on flood insurance or have a third floor on his home.

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