Floodplain Development Permit Requirements
Floodplain Development Permit Requirements
The Town of Davie has adopted regulations on development in flood zones. The purpose of these regulations is to:
- Control the alteration of the natural floodplains
- Prevent or regulate the construction of flood barriers which will unnaturally divert floodwaters or which may increase flood hazards in other areas
- Restrict or prohibit uses which may result in damaging increases in erosion or in flood heights or velocities
- Control filling, grading, dredging, and other development which may increase flood damages
Davie currently regulates development within the natural floodplains through the development review process whereby building and engineering permits are required prior to construction, filling, or otherwise altering the natural elevations of a site. Prior to commencing any site development or construction work, it is recommended that the Engineering Division be contacted at 954-797-1113 so that the appropriate permits may be secured as necessary. To report illegal floodplain development, please contact the Engineering Division.
Elevation certificates are required as part of the permitting process for all newly constructed or substantially improved buildings in Davie. The certificate documents the base-flood elevation of new buildings and is available to insurance agents or any inquirers facilitating accurate insurance ratings. If you have any questions regarding the elevation certificates or any building, filling, or other development in Davie, contact the Building Division at 954-797-1111.
Substantial Improvements/Damage Requirements
According to the Davie Building Code, a substantial improvement is defined as “any repair, reconstruction, or improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the structure before the repair is started or if the structure is damaged and is being restored before the damage occurred.” Substantially improved buildings must meet the same construction requirements as a new building. Similarly, damaged buildings, where the repair will cost 50% or more of the original building value before the damage occurred, must be brought up to current building code and floodplain management regulations. The floodplain management regulations include that the lowest floor of a structure must be at or above the base flood elevation and in the case of structures within the CBWCD, the lowest floor of all structures must be 18 inches above the crown of the road. The Town building official makes the determination as to whether a structure is considered substantially improved or substantially damaged. If you have any questions regarding the floodplain development requirements in Davie, contact the Engineering Division at 954-797-1113.
Drainage System Maintenance
The Town is served by a man-made system of primary and tributary canals and swale areas that was constructed originally to drain the Everglades and now to accommodate the flow of water for stormwater management purposes. These drainage features are critical to the success of water management practices which are incorporated into the development review process. State law prohibits dumping or unauthorized obstructions or alterations of the drainage canals or swale areas. Illegal dumping can lead to clogged swales and canals that will not properly carry water away during a rain event. To report illegal dumping, please contact Code Compliance at 954-693-8237.
The Town’s canal system is maintained on a regular basis by the local drainage districts. These districts include the Central Broward Water Control District, the South Broward Drainage District, the South Florida Water Management District, and the Tindall Hammock Drainage District.
The Public Works Department conducts an annual inspection of the drainage system to ensure proper maintenance. To report a drainage problem, residents can contact the Public Works Department at 954-797-1240 or can submit their concern through the Town’s Citizen Support Center.
Updated April 26, 2023