Maryland SB687 establishes a flood risk review process for proposed developments in flood-prone areas.

Maryland SB687 creates a comprehensive flood risk review process for the Department of the Environment to assess proposed developments in flood-prone areas. The bill mandates that the Department deny approval if the development increases downstream flood hazards, impairs watershed-scale flood management strategies, or conflicts with stormwater quantity standards. The review process includes evaluating the cumulative impacts of past, present, and foreseeable development, and requires consultation with local jurisdictions, the Department of Planning, and watershed advisory groups.

Maryland SB687 establishes a flood risk review process for proposed developments in flood-prone areas.

Maryland SB687 creates a comprehensive flood risk review process for the Department of the Environment to assess proposed developments in flood-prone areas. The bill mandates that the Department deny approval if the development increases downstream flood hazards, impairs watershed-scale flood management strategies, or conflicts with stormwater quantity standards. The review process includes evaluating the cumulative impacts of past, present, and foreseeable development, and requires consultation with local jurisdictions, the Department of Planning, and watershed advisory groups.