42 U.S.C. § 4102 : US Code - Section 4102: Criteria for land management and use

Search 42 U.S.C. § 4102 : US Code - Section 4102: Criteria for land management and use

(a) Studies and investigations
The Director is authorized to carry out studies and
investigations, utilizing to the maximum extent practicable the
existing facilities and services of other Federal departments or
agencies, and State and local governmental agencies, and any other
organizations, with respect to the adequacy of State and local
measures in flood-prone areas as to land management and use, flood
control, flood zoning, and flood damage prevention, and may enter
into any contracts, agreements, or other appropriate arrangements
to carry out such authority.
(b) Extent of studies and investigations
Such studies and investigations shall include, but not be limited
to, laws, regulations, or ordinances relating to encroachments and
obstructions on stream channels and floodways, the orderly
development and use of flood plains of rivers or streams, floodway
encroachment lines, and flood plain zoning, building codes,
building permits, and subdivision or other building restrictions.
(c) Development of comprehensive criteria designed to encourage
adoption of adequate State and local measures
On the basis of such studies and investigations, and such other
information as he deems necessary, the Director shall from time to
time develop comprehensive criteria designed to encourage, where
necessary, the adoption of adequate State and local measures which,
to the maximum extent feasible, will -
(1) constrict the development of land which is exposed to flood
damage where appropriate,
(2) guide the development of proposed construction away from
locations which are threatened by flood hazards,
(3) assist in reducing damage caused by floods, and
(4) otherwise improve the long-range land management and use of
flood-prone areas,
and he shall work closely with and provide any necessary technical
assistance to State, interstate, and local governmental agencies,
to encourage the application of such criteria and the adoption and
enforcement of such measures.