A riparian buffer shall be provided along the entire length and on both sides of a river or perennial stream channel. The buffer area shall have a width not less than 50 feet, measured from the river or stream bank. Small streams without clearly defined high water marks shall be measured from the stream centerline. This buffer may be increased by the Planning and Zoning Commission where the type of stream, slope of the stream banks, surrounding soils, vegetation, land uses, and the function of the stream so require, but in general shall not exceed 300 feet. In making a determination on the appropriate buffer width, the Planning and Zoning Commission may consult with technical experts such as the City Planning Director, City Engineer, and Soil and Water Conservation District, or others qualified (including those offered by the applicant), to provide a recommendation to the Planning and Zoning Commission.
The area within this buffer shall not be disturbed and shall be retained in its natural state, except that walking or bike trails and other non-intrusive uses may be permitted to be located within the riparian buffers when the Planning and Zoning Commission determines that such use will create minimal impacts within the buffer and to the stream.
(Ord. 2004-183. Passed 11-22-04.)