Commission approves verification step for floodplain construction; certificate of compliance to be required

The Vigo County Area Plan Commission voted to approve an amendment to the county’s flood damage prevention ordinance that adds a verification process for new construction in flood-prone areas and establishes a certificate of compliance issued by the planning department.

Staff explained the amendment creates a certificate of compliance demonstrating that a building was constructed to the elevations and safety levels promised in the approved plans; the certificate applies only to flood-ordinance regulations and would not replace a separate certificate of occupancy required by building inspection when applicable. Accessory (non-occupied) structures are exempt from the certificate requirement.

As staff explained, the purpose is to prevent occupancy of buildings that may not meet flood-safety standards after construction deviations. The commission approved the ordinance amendment.