§ 3-5-96. Critical area stabilization.

(a)

Intent. This section is intended to ensure that highly erodible or critically eroding areas including, but not limited to, dams, dikes, levees, cuts, ditches and other artificial watercourses, fills, spoil piles and denuded gullied sites, are stabilized to conserve topsoil and prevent sedimentation of surface waters.

(b)

Temporary soil stabilization. All graded or cleared areas greater than one (1) acre which will be subject to erosion by wind or water for a period of twelve (12) months or greater prior to the establishment of finished grade, agricultural crops, or permanent perennial vegetative cover shall be stabilized.

(c)

Fill slopes. All slopes of four horizontal to one vertical (4:1) or greater shall be sodded or otherwise stabilized in accordance with guidelines of the natural resource conservation service. In the event that the slope is a temporary result of earthmoving activities associated with development of a site and said slope will be modified within thirty (30) days, stabilization shall not be required. This shall not preclude compliance with the remaining provisions of this article.

(d)

Swales and other drainage systems. All swales and other manmade, nonstructural drainage conveyances excavated after the effective date of these regulations shall be stabilized with perennial grass cover; application may be through sodding, hydroseeding, or other methods which achieve stabilization and are approved by the stormwater utility director or his designee. In the event that the bottom of the conveyance is below seasonal high groundwater levels, grass cover shall be required to extend down to the seasonal high groundwater line only. In no instance shall the preceding be construed to supersede the requirements of the Charlotte County Stormwater Management Ordinance.

(e)

Exemptions. Unpaved roads and other surfaces designed for vehicular circulation shall be exempt from the requirements of section 3-5-96(b).

(Ord. No. 98-054, § 1, 7-21-98)