In accordance with the Wetlands Conservation Act of 1991, the following regulations shall apply to wetland areas:
(A) Permanent natural buffer areas shall be maintained and appropriate erosion control measures shall be taken in areas surrounding wetland areas to prevent sedimentation of the wetland.
(B) Wetlands shall not be drained or filled, wholly or partially, unless replaced by restoring or creating wetland areas of at least equal public value. Wetland encroachment must be guided by the following principles in descending order:
(1) Avoid the direct or indirect impact of the activity that may destroy or diminish the wetland;
(2) Minimize the impact by limiting the degree or magnitude of the wetland encroachment activity;
(3) Rectify the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected wetland environment;
(4) Reduce or eliminate the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of the activity; and
(5) Replace or provide substitute wetland resources or environments.
(Ord. 102, passed 7-9-01)