In all areas of special flood hazards where base flood elevations data has been provided (Zoned A1-30, AH, and AE on the community FIRM), and the use of other base flood data (in A and V zones map) following BMC 15.08.100 through 15.08.260 are required.

The areas of special flood hazard identified by the Federal Insurance Administration in a scientific and engineering report entitled “The Flood Insurance Study for the City of Bethel,” dated September 25, 2009, as amended, with accompanying flood insurance maps, as amended, are hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this chapter. The flood insurance study is on file at City of Bethel Planning Department, P.O. Box 1388, Bethel, Alaska 99559.

No structure or land shall hereafter be constructed, located, extended, converted, or altered without full compliance with the terms of this chapter and other applicable regulations. Violations of the provisions of this chapter by failure to comply with any of its requirements (including violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with conditions), shall constitute a misdemeanor. Any person who violates this chapter or fails to comply with any of its requirements shall upon conviction thereof be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000) per day or imprisoned for not more than five (5) days, or both, for each violation, and each day starts a new violation, and in addition shall pay all costs and expenses involved in the case. Nothing herein contained shall prevent the city of Bethel from taking such other lawful action as is necessary to prevent or remedy any violation.

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

Considered as minimum requirements;

Liberally construed in favor of the governing body; and

Deemed neither to limit or repeal any other powers granted under state statutes.

The degree of flood protection required by this chapter 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 manmade or natural causes. This chapter does not imply that land outside the areas of special flood hazards or uses permitted within such areas will be free from flooding or flood damages. This chapter shall not create liability on the part of city of Bethel, any officer or employee thereof, or the Federal Insurance Administration, for any flood damages that result from reliance on this chapter or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder. [Ord. 10-15 § 2.]