(1) The permit issuing authority may grant a variance for the new
construction, substantial improvement or alteration of an artificial
obstruction that is not in compliance with the minimum standards contained in
these rules only if:
(a) the proposed use would not increase flood hazard either upstream or downstream in
the area of insurable buildings;
(b) refusal of a variance would because of exceptional circumstances cause a unique
or undue hardship on the applicant or community involved;
(c) the proposed use is adequately floodproofed;
(d) reasonable alternative locations outside the designated floodplain are not
available.