This bill seeks to improve floodplain management in North Dakota by introducing new sections and subsections to the North Dakota Century Code. It establishes definitions and requirements for floodplain management ordinances that counties, cities, and townships can enact, allowing local governing bodies to apply these ordinances to all persons and property within their jurisdictions, with certain exceptions. The bill requires that any ordinances enacted be submitted to the Department of Water Resources for inclusion in a central repository, thereby promoting transparency and coordination in floodplain management efforts.

Additionally, the bill amends existing legal language to integrate floodplain management into emergency management definitions and flood control projects, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive planning in zoning regulations. It outlines the responsibilities of county and city governing bodies in enforcing floodplain management ordinances and provides procedures for townships regarding the exercise of floodplain management authority. The legislation also mandates that township clerks certify their engagement in floodplain management activities annually and clarifies that townships do not need to activate zoning authority to enact floodplain management ordinances. Overall, these changes aim to create a more structured and effective approach to managing floodplain risks throughout the state.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 11-33-03, 40-05-01, 40-47-03, 58-03-12, 61-16.2-02
Adopted by the Senate State and Local Government Committee: 11-33-03, 40-05-01, 40-47-03, 58-03-12, 61-16.2-02
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 11-33-03, 40-05-01, 40-47-03, 58-03-12, 61-16.2-02
PREFILED: 11-33-03, 40-05-01, 40-47-03, 58-03-12, 61-16.2-02