We have recently been made aware of a problem with state and municipal code officials in New Jersey incorrectly applying DEP and municipal zoning regulations that govern required height of first floor when raising a house in a flood zone.

 

The following is a basic explanation; determing actual requirements for any particular house may be somewhat more involved. 

 

For further discussion, the term "structure-line" is defined as follows;

 

-- For A and AE Flood Zone: Lowest (usually first) floor of house, considered to be top of floor sheathing