Metairie Terrace Floodplain and Wetland Rules
Metairie Terrace, Louisiana lies within Jefferson Parish floodplain oversight and wetland protection policies that affect development, drainage, and property maintenance. This guide explains which local standards apply, how permits and variances work, enforcement pathways, and practical steps for property owners and contractors to remain compliant.
Overview
Floodplain and wetland protections for Metairie Terrace are administered at the parish level under Jefferson Parish planning, building, and floodplain management programs. Property owners should confirm Base Flood Elevations, flood zone designations, and any wetland delineations before altering land or starting construction. Key parish guidance is available on the Jefferson Parish Floodplain Management page Jefferson Parish Floodplain Management[1].
Protections & Standards
Standards typically govern building elevation, lowest floor requirements, stormwater management, and restrictions on filling or altering wetlands. The controlling parish ordinances and technical requirements are codified in the Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances and implementing regulations; where specific numeric requirements appear they are stated in the parish code and related technical bulletins Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances[2]. If a provision or fee amount is not listed on the cited page, it is noted as not specified on the cited page below.
Penalties & Enforcement
Enforcement is exercised by Jefferson Parish Planning and Transportation, Building Development Services, and code enforcement officers. Where the parish code sets penalties or procedures, those provisions govern enforcement; if a specific fine amount or escalation schedule is not published on the official ordinance page it is "not specified on the cited page" [2]. Typical enforcement tools used by the parish include administrative notices, stop-work orders, restoration orders, civil penalties, and referral to court for injunctive relief or abatement. For official contact and to file complaints or report violations, contact Jefferson Parish Planning and Transportation or Building Development Services via the parish planning department pages Jefferson Parish Planning & Transportation[3].
- Fines: specific dollar amounts are not specified on the cited ordinance page; consult the parish code for any published schedules [2].
- Escalation: first offence, repeat, and continuing offence provisions are not specified on the cited page; the parish may impose daily continuing fines or civil penalties where authorized [2].
- Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, removal or restoration orders, denial of permits, and court injunctions are commonly used under parish enforcement authority.
- Enforcer and complaints: Jefferson Parish Planning and Transportation and Building Development Services handle inspections, complaints, and notices; see parish planning contacts for submission guidance [3].
- Appeals and review: appeals routes may include parish administrative hearings, Board of Zoning Adjustments or similar review bodies; specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited ordinance page [2].
- Defences and discretion: lawful permits, granted variances, or emergency measures may be recognized as defenses where the parish code or permit conditions allow.
Applications & Forms
Common permits and forms associated with floodplain and wetland work include building permits, grading/fill permits, and elevation certificates. Fee schedules, form numbers, and specific submission steps are published by Building Development Services or the parish permitting portal; if a given form or fee is not posted on the cited pages it is "not specified on the cited page" [2][3].
Common Violations
- Placing fill in regulated floodplain or wetlands without a permit.
- Constructing structures below required Base Flood Elevation.
- Failing to obtain required stormwater or grading permits before work.
- Not producing elevation certificates or required documentation on request.
FAQ
- Do I need a permit to place fill or build on my Metairie Terrace lot?
- Most land-disturbing activities in regulated floodplains or mapped wetlands require parish permits; consult Jefferson Parish Planning for project-specific guidance.
- Where do I check my property's flood zone?
- Start with Jefferson Parish Floodplain Management resources and FEMA flood maps; elevation certificates and surveys provide definitive site-specific data.
- How do I report an alleged illegal fill or wetland disturbance?
- Report to Jefferson Parish Planning or Building Development Services using the parish complaint and permitting contacts; include photos, parcel ID, and description.
How-To
- Confirm flood zone and Base Flood Elevation using parish floodplain resources and FEMA maps.
- Determine required permits: building, grading, wetlands review, or variance application.
- Prepare documentation: site plan, elevation certificate, drainage plan, and contractor credentials.
- Submit applications to Jefferson Parish Building Development Services and pay applicable fees; track review timelines.
- If denied, request written reasons and follow the parish appeal or variance procedures within the stated time limit.
Key Takeaways
- Metairie Terrace development is governed by Jefferson Parish floodplain and wetland rules; check parish resources early.
- Obtain permits and elevation documentation before grading or building to avoid enforcement actions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Jefferson Parish Planning & Transportation
- Jefferson Parish Building Development Services
- Jefferson Parish Code of Ordinances (Municode)
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center