(A) The wetlands and watercourses of the village are indispensable but sensitive natural resources subject to flooding, erosion, soil bearing capacity limitations and other hazards.
(B) In their natural state, wetlands and watercourses serve multiple functions for flood control, stormwater storage and release, pollution control, erosion control, wildlife habitat, aesthetics, open space and recreation.
(C) The continued destruction and loss of wetlands and watercourses constitutes a distinct and immediate danger to the public health, safety and general welfare.
(D) Pursuant to the Michigan Constitution 1963, Art. IV, 52, the conservation and development of natural resources of the state is a matter of paramount public concern in the interest of the health, safety and general welfare of the people.
(E) It is, therefore, the policy of the Village of Pinckney:
(1) To protect wetlands and watercourses while taking into account varying economic, ecological, hydrologic, recreation and aesthetic values;
(2) To provide for the protection, preservation, replacement, proper maintenance and use of wetlands and watercourses located in the Village of Pinckney in order to minimize disturbance to them and to prevent damage from erosion, siltation and flooding;
(3) To provide for the issuance of use permits and approved activities;
(4) To establish standards and procedures for the review of proposed activities in wetlands and watercourses; and
(5) To establish penalties for the violation of this chapter.
(Ord. 34, passed 7-24-1989)