5-1-24 PB Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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(B) Existing forested areas or any other healthy vegetation may not be removed from a stream buffer, except where replaced with vegetation resulting in comparable stormwater runoff velocity and quantity one year after planting. (C) New vegetation shall be planted to capture non-source pollutants before they reach the perennial stream, as per applicable Orange County Standards. SECTION 6.14: STORMWATER MANAGEMENT 6.14.1 Introduction As a watershed becomes more developed, the amount of impervious surface area increases, causing a decrease in the rate at which stormwater runoff can be absorbed into the soil. This results in additional stormwater runoff flowing directly into streams and other water bodies. Because this additional direct stormwater runoff has not been filtered through the soil, pollutants from the air and land surface enter streams and increase the potential for pollution of hydrologically connected aquatic ecosystems and drinking water supplies. 6.14.2 Purpose It has been determined that proper management of construction-related and post-development stormwater runoff will minimize damage to public and private property and infrastructure; safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare; and protect water and aquatic resources. The purpose of the Board of County Commissioners in adopting stormwater management regulations is to protect the water quality of the streams that lie within Orange County by reducing and controlling stormwater runoff and addressing nutrient reductions for both new and existing development. 6.14.3 Jurisdiction-Wide and Inter-Local Approaches (A) Orange County shall have the option of implementing jurisdiction-wide and/or inter-local approaches to control stormwater runoff and achieve nutrient reductions. (B) Any jurisdiction-wide and/or inter-local approaches must be approved by the Orange County Board of Commissioners, and the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission before implementation. 6.14.4 General Methods The following general approaches shall be utilized to minimize the effects of stormwater pollution on hydrologically connected aquatic ecosystems and drinking water supplies in Orange County: (A) Non-Structural Methods (1) The stormwater run-off generated by one inch of rain from all project area surfaces shall be controlled to the extent possible through on-site infiltration and through the use of methods which rely on natural soil properties for absorption and treatment. (2) Stormwater runoff from roads, parking lots, and/or sidewalks shall be directed to undisturbed areas through use of berms, grassed diversion ditches or swales, or other acceptable means to reduce stormwater runoff velocity and volume, and filter out pollutants. (3) Impervious Surface Limits (a) In order to promote infiltration of stormwater runoff into the soil and minimize direct and immediate runoff into streams and water supply impoundments, the maximum percentage of the total lot area which may be covered with an impervious surface shall be specified. This limit is referred to as the "impervious surface ratio". 123