Possible Points: 600 points for the element.
Learn from the experiences of a community that was successful in earning credit for this CRS element! Check out the Success Story for Pierce County, WA.
Purpose of Element: The purpose of this element is to reward communities that ensure that the floodplain is developed minimally through low density zoning. Implementing zoning ordinances that allow development to occur only in low densities within the floodplain results in fewer structures being constructed and greater amounts of preserved open space. As a result, flood risk is substantially lower in these areas relative to those that are zoned at higher densities. The minimum lot size required to qualify for low density zoning credit is 5 acres. For more information see pages 420-28 - 420-30 of the CRS Coordinator’s Manual.
Impact Adjustment: Credit is adjusted based upon the ratio of area zoned for low density within the entire regulatory floodplain in comparison to the special flood hazard area (SFHA). For more information see page 420-29 of the CRS Coordinator’s Manual.
Potential to Double Count Credit: Areas that are subject to low density zoning could also be eligible for credit under element 422.f. Open Space Incentives (OSI) and element 432.a. Development Limitations (DL) if appropriate regulations are in place.
Degree of Difficulty - Documentation: Low. Getting credit this element only requires communities to create an impact adjustment map and to obtain copies of relevant zoning ordinances.
Degree of Difficulty - Implementation: Low. Many of the communities that earn CRS credit for this element are rural in nature, and as a result, are already zoned at low densities.
Tip for Success:
- Many counties that are sparsely populated or have a substantial proportion of their area dedicated agricultural production receive credit for this CRS element because they are already zoned at low densities. If your community has these characteristics, consider pursuing CRS credit for this element.
Co-Benefits Associated with this Element: The primary benefit of this CRS element is that low density zoning results in fewer people living and working in the floodplain. This reduces flood risk because there are fewer structures in the floodplain. In addition, areas that are zoned at low densities provide many environmental co-benefits. For example, low density zoning results in larger quantities of open space being preserved. As a result, habitat for wildlife is maintained. Finally, in agricultural areas low density zoning can also help protect prime farmland from future development.