(A) On land within 200 feet of the ordinary high water mark in Rural Districts, 100 feet of the ordinary high water mark in Urban Districts, and 40 feet landward of blufflines and on slopes greater than 12% in all districts, there shall be no vegetative cutting of live trees or shrubs without a vegetative cutting permit from the Zoning Administrator. A permit may be issued only if:
(1) The cutting, including topping, involves trees less than six inches in diameter at breast height;
(2) The cutting, including topping, involves vegetation which is not screening any structure from view from the river;
(3) The essential character, quality and density of existing growths is preserved and continuous canopy cover is maintained;
(4) Diseased trees are to be removed, and their removal is in the public interest; or
(5) The cutting is necessary for the maintenance of transportation or utility rights-of-way.
(B) A vegetative cutting permit is not required for the following provided the existing quality, character, density and canopy is maintained as viewed from the river:
(1) Clearing for a validly permitted structure, septic system, roadway and parking areas; and
(2) Maintenance trimming or pruning on a particular parcel or in transportation or utility rights-of-way.
(Prior Code, § 12-704)