(a) It is hereby determined that the system of streams within the County of Summit contributes to the health, safety and general welfare of the residents of the County of Summit. The purpose of this Riparian Setback chapter is to protect and preserve the water quality within streams of the County of Summit and to protect residents of the County of Summit from property loss and damage because of flooding and other impacts of the stream. The method of implementing this chapter is by controlling uses and developments within a Riparian Setback that would impair the ability of the riparian area to:
(1) Reduce flood impacts by absorbing peak flows, slowing the velocity of floodwaters and regulating base flow.
(2) Stabilize the banks of streams to reduce bank erosion and the downstream transport of sediments eroded from stream banks.
(3) Reduce pollutants in streams during periods of high flows by filtering, settling and transforming pollutants already present in streams.
(4) Reduce pollutants in streams during periods of high flows by filtering, settling and transforming pollutants in runoff before they enter streams.
(5) Provide areas for natural meandering and lateral movement of stream channels.
(6) Reduce the presence of aquatic nuisance species to maintain diverse and connected riparian vegetation.
(7) Provide high quality stream habitats with shade and food to a wide array of wildlife by maintaining diverse and connected riparian vegetation.
(8) Benefit the County of Summit economically by minimizing encroachment on stream channels and reducing the need for costly engineering solutions such as dams and riprap, to protect structures and reduce property damage and threats to the safety of watershed residents, and by contributing to the scenic beauty and to the environment of the County of Summit, the quality of life of the residents of the County of Summit and corresponding property values.
(9) Protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of the County of Summit.
(b) The following regulation has been enacted to protect these services of riparian areas by providing reasonable controls governing structures and uses in riparian setbacks.
(Ord. 2002-154. Adopted 4-29-02.)