(A) The borough’s zoning and SALDO regulations (Chapters 154 and 155 of this code of ordinances) should be used to preserve open space, especially on lands that are clearly physically unsuitable for building. Zoning mainly preserves open space through limitations on how intensely land can be developed and through incentives and disincentives. For example, a higher overall density might be permitted if a developer preserves key areas of a tract in open space. However, every landowner must be permitted some reasonable use of their land.
(B) It is essential to ensure that all development respects the natural features of the land. Also, areas that are clearly unsuitable for development need to be protected. The most important natural features include creek valleys, wetlands, flood prone areas, riparian buffer zones, wooded areas and steep sloped lands.
(C) The following are certain key requirements and methods that should be used to accomplish these objectives:
(1) Continue to require large lot areas in areas with slopes of 15 to 25%;
(2) Seek to avoid any earth disturbance on slopes over 25%;
(3) Strictly enforce the borough’s regulations on flood prone land (especially areas vulnerable to a 100-year flood);
(4) Seek to have all paving and buildings setback at least 50 to 75 feet from the banks of each creek and wetland;
(5) Carefully review all development plans and activities to help ensure that the federal and state wetland regulations are enforced;
(6) Carefully control unnecessary tree cutting;
(7) Encourage the development of carefully controlled low intensity uses throughout the borough that would result in open space being preserved; and
(8) Consider using an “official map” to reserve land that the borough wishes to acquire in the future. This is discussed in § 92.061(B).
(Ord. passed 8-3-2015)