(a) A minimum one hundred (100) foot vegetative buffer is required for all new development activities that exceed the low-density option; otherwise, a minimum thirty (30) foot vegetative buffer for development activities in the protected area is required along all perennial waters, and a minimum fifty (50) foot vegetative buffer for development activities in the critical area is required along all perennial waters indicated in the most recent versions of USGS 1:24,000 (7.5 minutes) scale topographic maps or as determined by local studies. Artificial stream bank stabilization is permitted.
(b) No new development is allowed in the buffer except for water-dependent structures and public projects such as road crossings and greenways and their appurtenances where no practical alternative exists. These activities should minimize built-upon surface area, direct runoff away from the surface waters, and maximize the utilization of stormwater best management practices. (Ord. of 1/10/05; Ord. of 1/8/07; Ord. of 12/6/10; Ord. of 6/28/21)