Keeping New Public Infrastructure Out of Hazard-Prone Areas

Regulations that prohibit new public infrastructure in hazardous areas keep utilities, roads, fire stations, police stations, and other infrastructure out of areas that will be impassible during storm events and/or will need regular repair. These regulations can also be written to discourage further development in hazardous areas. Communities should plan ahead for future infrastructure needs (e.g., schools, police and fire stations), especially in areas of new growth, to ensure that such infrastructure can be sited in appropriate locations.

• For an example of regulations that discourage infrastructure in the floodplain, see the Cape Cod Commission's Model Floodplain District Bylaw, which stipulates that "no new public infrastructure or expansion of existing infrastructure shall be made in FEMA A or V zones unless there is a documented and accepted overriding public benefit provided, and provided that the infrastructure will not promote new growth or development in these areas."
• Chatham's zoning bylaw (PDF, 500 KB) allows roads and driveways only if they are of "minimal legal and practical width where there is no alternative means of access" to an established development. See StormSmart Coasts Fact Sheet 3, A Cape Cod Community Prevents New Residences in Floodplains (PDF, 5.75 MB) for more information.