Flood vents

Hillsborough County requires every enclosure below an elevated structure to let floodwater enter and exit on its own. That equalizes the water pressure on the exterior walls so they are less likely to fail. Hydrostatic flood vents are the usual way to do it.

The county also says enclosed areas below the base flood elevation may be used only for parking, building access or storage. Rules for the City of Tampa may differ, so confirm with the permit office. See building in a flood zone and the special flood hazard area entry.