Morrisville UDO - June 2017 version

433 / 601

Article 6: Riparian Buffers
Section 6.3. Riparian Buffers and Zones
6.2.3. Interpretation of Riparian Buffer Regulations
Morrisville, NC June 23, 2017
Unified Development Ordinance Page 6-3
6.2.3. Interpretation of Riparian Buffer Regulations
When interpreting the meaning or application of the riparian buffer regulations in this article, the Town
Engineer shall consider the clarification memos and other information developed and maintained by the
North Carolina Division of Water Resources.
6.2.4. Records
The Town shall maintain on-site records for a minimum of five years, and shall furnish a copy of these records
to the North Carolina Division of Water Resources within 30 days of receipt of a written request for them.
Such records shall include the following:
A. A copy of all variance requests;
B. Findings of fact on all variance requests;
C. Results of all variance proceedings;
D. A record of complaints and action taken as a result of complaints;
E. Records for stream origin calls and stream ratings; and
F. Copies of all requests for authorization, records approving authorization, and Authorization Certificates.
SECTION 6.3. RIPARIAN BUFFERS AND ZONES
6.3.1. Riparian Buffer
Riparian buffers subject to this section include all land (including wetlands) within 50 feet of, and directly
adjacent to, all sides of surface waters in the Neuse River Basin and the Jordan Lake watershed. (Wetlands
within a riparian buffer are also regulated pursuant to Rules 15A NCAC 2B .0230, and .0231, Rules 15A
NCAC 2H .0500, 15A NCAC 2H .1300, and Sections 401 and 404 of the Federal Water Pollution Control
Act.)
6.3.2. Riparian Buffer Zones
Riparian buffers shall consist of two zones that have a combined width of 50 feet:
A. Zone One
Zone One consists of a vegetated area that is undisturbed except for uses and activities allowed in
accordance wit
For intermittent and perennial streams, Zone One begins at the top of the bank and extends
landward on both sides of the stream a distance of 30 feet, measured horizontally on a line
perpendicular to a vertical line marking the top of the bank.
For ponds, lakes, and reservoirs located within natural drainageway, Zone One begins at the
normal water level and extends landward on all sides of the water body a distance of 30 feet,
measured horizontally on a line perpendicular to a vertical line marking the outer edge of the
normal water level.
B. Zone Two
Zone Two consists of a stable, vegetated area that is undisturbed except for uses and activities allowed
in accordance with Zone Two begins at the
outer edge of Zone One and extends landward a distance of 20 feet, measured horizontally on a line
perpendicular to a vertical line marking the outer edge of Zone One.