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5 <br /> existing structures as non-conforming, and the inability to locate a <br /> structure in close proximity to the lake, particularly when adjacent <br /> houses which existed prior to the regulations are close to the lake. <br /> Correspondence which has been received from affected property owners is <br /> attached. <br /> The proposed amendment is summarized as follows: <br /> 1) Wells would be allowed in stream buffers, and <br /> 2) Nitrification fields would continue to be located 300 feet from <br /> reservoirs and outside of stream buffers. Septic tanks and pumps <br /> could be located 150 feet from the reservoir or outside of the stream <br /> buffer. (The setback for structures is only 150 feet. It is often <br /> necessary or preferable to locate the tank in close proximity to the <br /> residence. ) ; and <br /> 3) Existing development would be deemed conforming with respect to <br /> watershed standards; and <br /> 4 ) If destroyed, existing structures could be replaced in their current <br /> location provided that there is no increase in impervious surface and <br /> no increase in any existing encroachment into buffers or setbacks. <br /> 5) Setbacks and buffers for development on pre-existing lots could be <br /> reduced if all of the following criteria were met: <br /> a) The septic system is sized for no more than four bedrooms; and <br /> b) septic area and repair can be accommodated on 20,000 square feet <br /> or less; and <br /> C) encroachment into setbacks is necessary in order to build on the <br /> lot; and <br /> d) the relative location of the well, septic system-and structure <br /> maximizes the degree of watershed protection which can be <br /> obtained while allowing development of the lot; and <br /> e) the amount of encroachment is the minimum that can be obtained <br /> while meeting the above criteria; and <br /> f) there are no existing water quality problems caused by <br /> malfunctioning septic systems within 300 feet of the reservoir. <br /> 6) The requirement that the Environmental Management Commission (EMC) <br /> approve major exemptions, as required by the State mandate, is <br /> clarified. EMC approval of a variance is required only if reduction <br /> exceeds 10% of the State minimum. <br />