Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Who has the authority to require further documentation when design flood elevations are not included in established flood hazard areas?

1. City Planner

2. Building Official

3. Environmental Consultant

4. Floodplain Coordinator

The correct answer is: Building Official

The Building Official has the authority to require further documentation when design flood elevations are not included in established flood hazard areas. This is primarily because the Building Official is responsible for ensuring that all construction complies with local building codes and floodplain management regulations. When there is ambiguity about design flood elevations, the Building Official assesses the potential risks and ensures that the construction meets safety standards and environmental regulations. This authority is crucial in preventing issues such as property damage and loss of life that can result from inadequately designed structures in flood-prone areas. The Building Official can mandate that developers provide additional information or studies to determine appropriate flood elevations and design standards, ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations. While other roles, such as the City Planner, Environmental Consultant, and Floodplain Coordinator, play important parts in the development process and may offer insights or recommendations regarding land use and environmental impacts, their authority does not extend to mandating further documentation in the way that the Building Official’s does. The Building Official's primary focus is on compliance with construction regulations, making them the appropriate authority in this situation.