Technical Bulletin 5, Free-of-Obstruction Requirements (2020)

NFIP Technical Bulletin 5 provides guidance on free-of-obstruction requirements for buildings located in Coastal High Hazard Areas, such as Zone V, according to the National Flood Insurance Program. The document specifies requirements for construction in Zone V to minimize flood damage potential by ensuring the area beneath elevated structures remains free of obstructions that could divert flood forces or waves. The bulletin also discusses implications for NFIP flood insurance premiums and addresses various building elements below the base flood elevation, site development practices, and specific regulations to comply with during construction in flood-prone areas.