(A) During the construction process, soil is highly vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. Eroded soil endangers water resources by reducing water quality and causing the siltation of aquatic habitat for fish and other species. Eroded soil also necessitates repair of sewers and ditches and the dredging of lakes. In addition, clearing and grading during construction cause the loss of native vegetation necessary for terrestrial and aquatic habitat. Following the completion of construction activities, dust, dirt and erosion will continue to affect the storm water facilities and receiving streams unless post-construction practices are put in place during the construction and maintained in perpetuity.
(B) As a result, the purpose of this subchapter is to safeguard persons, protect property and prevent damage to the environment in the town. This subchapter will also promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating and controlling the design, construction, use and maintenance of any development or other activity that disturbs or breaks the topsoil or results in the movement of earth in the town.
(C) The purpose of this subchapter is to establish minimum storm water management requirements and controls to protect and safeguard the general health, safety and welfare of the public residing in watersheds within this jurisdiction. This subchapter seeks to meet that purpose through the following objectives:
(1) Minimize increases in storm water runoff from any development in order to reduce flooding, siltation and stream bank erosion and maintain the integrity of stream channels;
(2) Minimize increases in non-point source pollution caused by storm water;
(3) Minimize increases in non-point source pollution caused by storm water runoff from development which would otherwise degrade local water quality;
(4) Minimize the total annual volume of surface water runoff which flows from any specific site during and following development to not exceed the pre-development hydrologic regime to the maximum extent practicable; and
(5) Reduce storm water runoff rates and volumes, soil erosion and non-point source pollution, wherever possible, through storm water management controls and to ensure that these management controls are properly maintained and pose no threat to public safety.
(Ord. 2005-13, passed 11-21-2005)