Agenda - 06-04-1981 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Simply states zoning is the division of a jurisdiction into different districts and the regulation within those districts of the density of population, intensity of the use of buildings and land, and the lot coverage and required setbacks. Most zoning ordinances divide land uses into the three general categories of residential, commercial and indus- trial and specify the areas where each of these uses is permitted. Orange County's Zoning Ordinance currently applies to two townships, Eno and Chapel Hill. The proposed Zoning Ordinance, which is soon to be adopted, will apply to Eno, Hillsborough and Cheeks Townships, in addition to Eno and Chapel Hill Townships. Subdivision Regulations Subdivision regulations govern the conversion of raw land for intensive use. It serves as the means to secure a well designed and coordinated pattern of streets, lots and utilities in advance of subdivision, given the relative permanence of the character of the subdivision once com- pleted. Such an implementation tool is particularly necessary to coor- dinate existing development and potential future development with proposed development. As the interest of the developer is generally short; term, the application of subdivision regulations protects not only the indiv- idual homeowner, but also the general public by providing for a review process which facilitates and suggests coordination of the proposal with the long range specifications of the Plan. By providing an opportunity for negotiation it likewise allows for the potential coordination of private and public activities. - Orange County's Subdivision Regulations apply to all seven Orange County Townships. Chapel Hill and Eno Townships were the earliest Townships to have Subdivision Regulations. The Subdivision Regulations were extended to the remainder of the Townships in the County in 1978. Erosion and Sedimentation Controls Soil erosion has been and is a serious problem in the Piedmont of North Carolina, resulting in land degradation and water quality deterioration. The Sedimentation and Erosion Control Ordinance provides the legal means by which the adverse impacts of land disturbing development activities can be minimized. The Ordinance serves to control and prevent acceler- ated soil erosion, maintain the ecological balance, prevent the obstruct- ion of natural and artificial drainage ways, inhibit flooding, reduce the undermining of roads and protect water quality. Orange County presently administers a strong erosion and sedimentation control program for the entire County, including Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough. Before a construction permit is granted, a developer must submit an erosion and sedimentation control plan to the County's erosion control officer. These plans include the type of soils present at the site, the topography and location of nearby streams, erosion control measures to be taken during construction, and the operating and maintenance of any structural controls during the life of the project.