§ 66-54. Buffer areas required.

(a)

A minimum 30-foot vegetative buffer for development activities is required along all perennial waters indicated on the most recent versions of U.S.G.S. 1:24,000 (7.5 minute) scale topographic maps or as determined by local government studies. Desirable artificial streambank or shoreline stabilization is permitted.

(1)

The minimum 30-foot vegetative buffer for Gaston Lake shall begin at the 200-foot elevation line.

(2)

The minimum 30-foot vegetative buffer for the Roanoke Rapids Lake shall begin at the 132-foot elevation.

(b)

No new development is allowed in the buffer except for water dependent structures, other structures such as flag poles, signs and security lights which result in only diminutive increases in impervious area and public projects such as road crossings and greenways 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 storm water best management practices.

(Ord. of 11-1-93, § 304; Ord. of 5-5-97(13), § 1)