Unified Development Ordinance - Currituck County Government

Chapter 7: Environmental ProtectionSECTION 7.6: RIPARIAN BUFFERSSubsection 7.6.3: Establishment of Buffer7.6.3. Establishment of BufferAll surface waters (e.g., streams, etc.), estuarine waters, wetlands, and canals shall maintain afifty-foot-wide riparian buffer directly adjacent to the shoreline, average annual water edge, orimpoundment edge (as appropriate).7.6.4. Delineation of Buffer ZonesRiparian buffers shall be comprised of two zones, which shall be measured horizontally fromthe edge of the shoreline, impoundment edge, or average annual water edge (see Figure 7.6.4,Riparian Buffer Zones).A. Zone 1Zone 1 is located within thefirst 30 feet of the bank,impoundment, or water edge,and shall prohibit alldevelopment and landdisturbingactivity except asallowed in Section 7.6.5,Development within Buffer.B. Zone 2Zone 2 is located 20 feetlandward of the edge of zone 1,and allows grading andreplacement of removedvegetation, but prohibitsdevelopment except as allowedin Section 7.6.5, Developmentwithin Buffer. In no instanceshall on-site or central wastewater facilities be locatedwithin zone 2.7.6.5. Development Within BufferThe following forms of developmentshall be authorized within zones 1 and 2of a riparian buffer:A. Functionally-dependentfacilities;B. Open space set-asides;C. Walkways and boardwalks;D. Recreational facilities, including gazebos and seating areas;E. Utilities, when no practical alternative exists; andF. Street crossings.Figure 7.6.4, Riparian Buffer ZonesCURRITUCK COUNTY, NC UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE7.33