Amityville trustees approve law to easing home elevation

Amityville trustees on Monday night approved a law that will make it easier for homeowners in flood zones to elevate their houses.

The law, approved by a 5-0 vote, permits homeowners in flood zones to elevate their houses up to three feet above base flood elevation without obtaining a height variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals. The law does not permit any other increases to the height of the home or alterations to its footprint.

“This is a great idea to streamline the process for hurricane Sandy folks,” trustee Nick LaLota said.

An earlier version of the law expired in April. This one will be permanent.

The village has issued 60 permits for home elevations since superstorm Sandy struck in 2012. Officials expect another 15 to 20 applications in coming months, according to LaLota.