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What is the “lowest floor” of a building and what is the elevation reference point which must be elevated above the minimum elevation?

The lowest floor is the floor of the lowest enclosed area in a building (including a basement), except when the criteria listed in the definition of Enclosed Area below Lowest Floor are met. An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage in an area other than a basement area is not considered a building's lowest floor; provided, that such enclosure is not built to render the structure in violation of the applicable non-elevation design requirements of Section 60.3 CFR. 

The elevation reference point depends on the most restrictive flood zone in which any portion of the building resides. In an A flood zone (any flood zone which starts with the letter A), the lowest floor elevation is calculated as the top of the lowest floor of elevated living area. Non-conditioned/enclosed areas located below the elevated structure which are used exclusively for limited storage, parking, or building access do not count as the “lowest floor”. If a building is located partially or entirely in a V flood zone (coastal high hazard area which has additional hazards due to wind and wave action), the lowest floor elevation reference point is the bottom of the lowest horizontal structural member supporting the elevated lowest floor: 

For more information and explanation regarding lowest floor elevation, see also the FEMA “Lowest Floor Guide” at the link below:

https://www.fema.gov/sites/default/files/2020-05/fim_appendix-c-lowest-floor-guide_apr2020.pd

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1. Am I in the jurisdiction of the Town of Fort Myers Beach if I have a Fort Myers Beach U.S. postal service address?
2. How long is my permit good for?
3. When is a permit required?
4. What happens if I choose not to obtain the required permits?
5. How do I submit my paperwork for a rebuild and obtain an issued permit?
6. Glass windows and doors--what is the requirement for replacement of windows and doors? Is there a requirement for a certain level of "hurricane" glass?
7. Where can I find the forms to submit a building permit application?
8. What is the current review period for building permits and how do I contact my reviewer?
9. PERMITS GENERAL (category)
10. How do I check the status of an existing building permit?