(A) Definition and intent. The land area subject to the riparian area overlay protection standards of this section shall be comprised of two sub-area zones. The definitions and intended purposes of each of these sub-areas are as follows:
NATURAL VEGETATION ZONE. The natural vegetation zone includes all lands located within 35 feet of the ordinary high water mark of the stream, and all contiguous wetlands as defined in this subchapter. The natural vegetation zone is intended to provide a functional vegetative corridor along the edge of a stream. Its functions shall be to protect water quality, animal habitat and aesthetic values of the riparian feature by minimizing erosion, stabilizing the bank, minimizing nutrient flows into the water, shading the water to maintain low water temperatures, and screening man-made structures.
TRANSITION ZONE. The transition zone, extends for a distance of 15 feet beyond the edge of the natural vegetation zone. The transition zone is intended to provide distance between upland development and the natural vegetation zone, in an area outside of the natural vegetation zone where there are fewer restrictions on disturbance and improvements, but where some restrictions remain necessary to protect water quality, animal habitat and the integrity of the adjacent stream and its contiguous wetlands.
(B) Delineation of sub-area zones. The limits of the natural vegetation zone and the transition zone as used and defined in this subchapter is required to be accurately shown on all site plans, land division plans, subdivision plans (plats), site condominium plans, plans for planned unit developments, and all applications for building permits submitted for review by the township. Any such plans for sites on which is located any protected riparian area subject to these regulations shall include the following statement: “There shall be no clearing, grading, earth change, placement of fill, construction or disturbance of vegetation within the area labeled as being subject to the riparian area protection standards of the Hopkins Township zoning regulations, except as permitted by Chapter 121 of the Hopkins Township Code of Ordinances.”
(Ord. passed - -2007)