[From the U.S. Government Printing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                      The Middlesex County
                               Chesapeake Bav
                                                                    VI
                            Preservation Area
                    Development Handbook





                                                     :r.' R








                   A












                                    Second Printing   January 1996















                               Department of Planning

                      Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area
                               Development Handbook

                   This handbook is designed to provide Middlesex County citizens with
                  information about developing and using land that is located within the
       C(     Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas. If you have any questions or comments, the
                           Planning Department Staff will be glad to assist you.

                 The Planning Department is located on the second floor of the Woodward
                               Building at the Saluda Courthouse Complex.
                           The address is P 0 Box 427, Saluda, Virginia 23149.
                                  The phone number is (804) 758-4715.


                 The funds for the staff that produced this handbook were provided by the
               Virginia Department of Environmental Quality Coastal Resource Management
     V-d       Program through grant #NA470ZO287 of the National Oceanic Atmospheric
                Administration (NOAA) Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management
                      under the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended.

              Tliank you to the Gloucester County Department of Community Development for
                            sharing the contents of its Development handbook.





                       The Middlesex County Chempgake Bay Fmservadon Area DeK@Zl@ot@         Fage I


                Introduction - The Chesapeake Bay

                The Chesapeake Bay is the largest and most
                productive estuary in the United States. It
                was created 10,000 years ago at the end of
                the last Ice Age when the ice glaciers
                melted and flooded the river valley of the
                ancient Susquehanna River. The Bay is
                approximately 200 miles long, draining a
                64,000 square mile land area that extends
                as far north as Cooperstown, New York and
                as far south as Virginia Beach, Virginia. All
                the rivers and streams draining from this
                land area provide freshwater to the Bay,
                while the ocean provides salt water to the
                Bay. This mixing of fresh and salt
                water creates the rich environment
                called an estuary.

                The Bay is an important
                resource for wildlife as well
                as   for    people.         The
                Chesapeake Bay is part of the                                        In 71,    :1
                Atlantic Flyway for migratory
                birds and provides habitat for
                                                                                                    0
                more than 2,700 species of
                plants and animals. People
                also utilize the Bay.
                Thirteen million people
                                                                Rid-wd
                currently live in the
                Bay's watershed and
                2.6 million more are
                expected by the year
                2020. The Bay serves
                as    a      recreational
                resource; shipping route; major finfish and shellfish supply
                for commercial and recreational fishermen;          discharge
                point for municipal sewage treatment plants and industrial wastewater; a
                tourism and historic resource; and much more.
                What is the problem?

                In the late 1970's, fisherman and other concerned citizens began to notice a
                decline in the water quality and health of aquatic living resources in the
                Chesapeake Bay. Underwater grasses, essential to maintaining life in the Bay,
                had decreased, and many popular fish species were at a mere fraction of their


The Middlesex County Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area Development Handbook           Page 2



earlier numbers. In 1976, this concern was brought to the attention of the
United States Congress which authorized the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) to conduct a study to determine the cause of the Bay's decline.

In 1983, EPA released the results of the study which concluded that nonpoint
source pollution, originating from urban and agricultural runoff, was the
primary cause of degraded water quality.

What is nonpoint source pollution?

Sediments, excess nutrients, and other pollutants picked up by runoff (rainfall
that can not soak into the soil) as it travels over the landscape is called nonpoint
source pollution.
			EVERYDAY LIFE AND NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION			FIGURE 4-7

This runoff
travels across
the
landscape. It
catches
pollutants 
such as oil,
gasoline,
brake fluid,
and cigarette 
butts as it
flows over
parking lots.
It catches
pollutants
such as			Source: Adapted by arrangement from Johnstone
pesticide and			  Quinan, The Washington Post, December 1989.
fertilizer
residue as it
flows over
agricultural
lands. It		1.	Improperly designed outfall structure aggra-		5.	Automobiles contribute in two ways. Nitro-
catches		vate channel erosion, releasing sediments into the		gen oxides from exhaust fumes enter streams from
sediment as 	stream.									acid rain. Motor oil residues are washed off streets
it flows												and parking areas, polluting waterways.
across		2.	Nitrogen and phosphorous in runoff come			
construction 	from fertilizers and organic waste. These elements		6.	Passed areas and other impervious surfaces
sites. This		cause algae to grow profusely, robbing the water of		do not absorb rainwater. Increased runoff flood
sediment		oxygen and harming aquatic life.					streams, eroding banks and sending silt into the water.
degrades												Silt can smother channel beds, choking aquatic life.
water quality	3.	The most precalent problem is organic waste
			which comes from garbage, animal droppings, leaves,		7.	Natural, undisturbed land absorbs rainwater,
			and grass clippings. Decaying waste uses oxygen			recharging groundwater supplies. Root mats hold
			in the water, leaving less for aquatic species.			the soil and keep sediments from washing away.

			4.	Zinc enters the environment from the 			8.	Grassed swales can slow water velocities,
			weathering and abrasion of galvanized iron and steel,		reducing the risk of channel bank erosion.
			often from aging pipes and gutters.

							[Source: The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Manual]





                        The Middlesex County Chesap@ake Ba y Froervation Area Develomimt Handbook Fage 3


                by creating turbid water, which blocks out the amount of light available to
                plants, by covering fish eggs, and by clogging fish gills. It also serves as a
                transport medium for pollutants. Toxins, excess nutrients, and other pollutants
                attach to the sediment contained in the runoff and are carried directly to the
                Chesapeake Bay.

                These pollutants do not originate from a specific point, such as a pipe, but from
                diffuse sources such as farzn fields, streets, and suburban -lawns. Daily activities
                that take place on land, such as construction, agriculture, fertilizing lawns, and
                driving cars, contribute to nonpoint source pollution.

                The Chesapeake Bay Program

                In 1987 in response to the results of the
                EPA study, the Governors of Virginia,
                Maryland, and Pennsylvan" the Mayor of
                Washington D.C. and the Administrator of
                the Environmental Protection Agency
                                                            Bay
                signed the historic         aesapeake
                Agreement,        which      pledged       their
                commitment to the restoration of the                     Slue
                Chesapeake Bay. This Agreement created a
                multi -governmental partnership, in order to establish goals and guidelines of the
                new Chesapeake Bay Program to restore the Chesapeake Bay.
                What is the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act.?

                As a partner in the Chesapeake Bay Program to restore water quality in the Bay,
                the Virginia General Assembly in 1988 passed the Chesapeake Bay Preservation
                Act (Bay Act) as Virginia's commitment to improving the health of the
                Chesapeake Bay. The purpose'of the Bay Act is to protect and improve the water
                quality of the Chesapeake Bay, as well as the tributaries (,rivers and streams)
                leading to the Bay. The Bay Act created a land use management program based
                on the idea that activities, such as construction, urbanization, and farming,
                taking place on land have a major impact on the quality of water found in the
                Chesapeake Bay. The Bay Act will affect how landowners develop land located
                in specially designated Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas. The intent of the Bay
                Act is to balance environmental protection with economic development, as stated
                in Section 10. 1 -2100 of the Bay Act:

                        "...Healthy state and local economies and a healthy Chesapeake Bay are
                        integrally related; balanced economic development and water quality
                        protection are not mutually exclusive..."

                The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Board (CBLAB), was created at the state
                level to develop regulations establishing criteria for local governments to use in





                       77ze MidWesex Countg C&cm
                                             p@ake Bay Fmmmation Area Dej@@ent               Fase 4


                designating and managing Chesapeake Bay Freservation Areas in their
                jurisdictions. All local governments in Tidewater Virginia, including Middlesex
                County, are responsible for implementation of the Bay Act and therefore are
                required to designate Chesapeake Bay Freservation Amas and develop local
                Chesapeake Bay Preservation Programs.

                The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Department (CBL4,D), is a state agency.
                It was created to provide technical and financial assistance to localities in order
                to develop and implement local Chesapeake Bay Preservation Programs.

                Middlesex County adopted a Chesapeake Bay Preservation (CBP) District in its
                Zoning Ordinance to be effective on January 16, 1992. This CBP District was
                amended and adopted again to be effective April 21, 1993.
                What are Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas?

                The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act created a land use management program
                based on the idea that activities taking place on the land have a major impact on
                the quality of water found in the Chesapeake Bay and the rivers that empty into
                it. Certain land areas play a more important role in protecting water quality
                than other land areas. The Bay Act focuses on those land areas that "if
                improperly developed, may f usult in substantial damage to the water quality of
                the Chesapeake Bay and its ftibulafies. " These areas are called Chesapeake Bay
                Preservation Areas (CBPAs) and include two components: a Resource Protection
                Area (RPA) and a Resource Management Area (RMA).

                What is a Resource Protection Area (RPA)?

                A Resource Protection Area (RPA) includes land area at or near the shoreline that
                contains sensitive features that play an important role in protecting water
                quality from nonpoint source poffution through the ecological and biological
                processes they perform. These areas are also sensitive to any impacts and can be
                easily damaged, resulting in degraded water quality. Under the Bay Act, the
                following land areas must be designated as Resource Protection Areas:

                       1. Tidal wetlands;
                       2. Nontidal wetlands connected by surface flow to tidal wetlands or
                          perennial tributary streams;
                       3. Tidal shores;
                       4. A 100 foot wide buffer area located adjacent to and landward of
                          perennial tributary streams and the other above RPA features.





                                 Me Middlesex County ChesaWake Bay Freservation Aim DeIKI-op-mentHandhook                             pase 5







                                        CHESAPEAKE SAY PRKSIMATION AREAS
























                                                                                                           **Wr-- This is a generic illustration.
                                                                                                            Dmilination of the RPA features and
                                                              RPA FEATURES*                                 Ow 1100 foot Buffer Area which
                                                                                                            cwWrise the RPA will vary. Consult
                                                                                                            %of CBPA program for proper
                                                                                                            dlfineation.






                          CHESAPEAKE BAY PRESERVATION AMEAS
















                                                             RPA FEATURES*



                                        Reprinted and modified with permission: City of Virginia Beach, Virginia

                                       [Source: Hampton Roads Planning District Commission Vq$etative Practices Guide]

                       How does the RFA protect water quality from nonpoint
                       source pollution?

                       The RPA features filter sediment and pollutants from runoff before they reach
                       the Bay, thus improving water quality. In addition, such features hold soil in





                        The Afiddfesex Counb@ ChesaMke Bay Freservation Area DeLd
                                                                            Mvent                FaSe 6


                place and decrease the velocity of runoff leaving a site, which prevents erosion.
                Specifically, wetlands act as sponges to absorb water, preventing flooding and
                naturally buffering the shore. Excess nutrients in the water cause algae blooms
                that decrease the amount of dissolved oxygen in the water. Vegetated buffers
                take up these excess nutrients before they enter the water, which helps prevent
                these algae blooms. Roots hold soil in place and tree canopies intercept rainfall,
                slowing it down before it impacts the ground, keeping sediment and pollutants
                from dislodging and entering the water.
                What is a Resource Management Area (RMA)?

                The Resource Management Area (RMA) is land area that protects and buffers the
                sensitive features of the RPA. The RMA is located landward., and contiguous to
                the RPA. Land areas designated RMA include the follwoing areas: floodplains,
                highly erodible soils, steep slopes, highly permeable so4 and nontidal wetlands.
                These are land areas that if improperly developed would result in adverse
                impacts, such as erosion, flooding, and groundwater contamination. These
                impacts can prevent the RPA from functioning properly and result in degraded
                water quality.
                How do I know if my land in Middlesex County is located
                in a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Axea?

                Seventy-two percent (72%) of Middlesex County is located within a Chesapeake
                Bay Preservation Area. The RFA component of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation
                Area is the most sensitive area and plays a large role in pzvtecting water quality.
                Whenever possible, development should occur outside of the 100-foot RPA
                buffer. Therefore, only water dependent uses and redevelopment of existing
                uses are allowed in the RPA. However, if development can not occur outside of
                the RPA, the Middlesex County Planning Department may consider granting an
                exception to the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act
                Ordinance. (More information about proposed development in the RPA is
                discussed later in this manual.)

                The RMA in Middlesex County consists of lands that contain any of the following
                features:


                        1 .The one-hundred (100) year floodplain;
                        2. Nontidal wetlands not connected by surface flow and contiguous to
                           tidal wetlands, tributary streams or other tidal waters;
                        3. Highly erodible and highly permeable soils;
                        4. Slopes in excess of fifteen (15%) percent;
                        5. Where none of the above features exist, the RMA will be a one
                           hundred fifty (150) foot linear distance from the landward side of the
                           RPA.





                          The Midd(esex County (;W@we Bay PYrservation Am DeIKI-op-ment Handhpok         Fase 7


                  Development within the RMA must meet certain criteria in order to ensure that
                  it will occur in such a way as not to degrade water quality.
                  How do I know if my building site is in a Chesapeake Bay
                  Preservation Area?

                  The Middlesex County Plaming Department has overlay maps that show the
                  general location of Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas.                      The Planning
                  Department is located on the second floor of the Woodward Building at the
                  Middlesex County Courthouse Complex in Saluda, Virginia. The Planning
                  Department staff will delineate RPA and RMA boundaries on site for
                  homeowners.

                  An applicant may hire a consultant to delineate the RPA and RMA boundaries.
                  However these delineations will be reviewed and must meet approval of the
                  Planning Director.

                  What criteria must I meet if I want to build in Akdfflesex
                  County?

                  Any development and land disturbing activities within the Chesapeake Bay
                  Preservation Areas (RPA and/or RMA) must meet the following criteria:

                  1. Limit land disturbance to the minimal areas neces&uy to provide for the
                      desired use or development. (Land disturbance over 2,500 square feet
                      requires an erosion and sediment control permit.)

                  2.  Maintain a 100 foot vegetated buffer                     landward of wetlands and
                      perennial streams in order to filter
                      pollutants out of stormwater runoff
                      before the stormwater is                                           understory and overstory
                      allowed to enter a waterway.                                       tree species (generally
                                    deep-root grames                                     20 feet in height and over)
                                    (generally up w
                                    3 feet in height)
                                                                                          deciduous and evergreen
                                                                                          shrubs (generally greater
                                                                                          than 3 feet in height and
                                                                                          less than 20 feet in height)
                                    suffa ce  IV




                                                         [Source: The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Manual]





                       The AUddlesex County Cbesaaeake Ba y Freservation Area Development Handhook Fage 8


               3.  Strictly control erosion and sediment on the site. This is also
                   required under the Virginia Erosion and Sediment Control Act. Sediment
                   carries many pollutants and nutrients that degrade water quality. Sediment
                   also clouds the water, which prevents light from reaching underwater
                   grasses.

               4. Preserve natural/ indigenous vegetation on the site.

                       Existing trees, not within the building footprint, over twelve inches in
                       diameter at breast height, shall be preserved. If twelve inch or greater
                       trees outside of the building footprint need to be cut, a replanting plan
                       and schedule are required. These trees need to be replaced with two new
                       plants for every tree removed. However, it is suggested that you explain
                       the scope of your project to the Planning Department staff because in
                       certain circumstances, such as a home garden, a replanting plan is not
                       necessary.


                       If you propose to disturb any land or vegetation within the 100 foot RPA,
                       consult with the Planning Department staff. Clearing in the RPA is
                       restricted, and with few exceptions, will require a RPA Development
                       Permit. Tree limbs and shrubs may be trimmed and dead trees may be
                       removed. However, no soil should be disturbed or roots taken out of the
                       ground unless a RPA Development Permit has been submitted to and
                       approved by the Planning Department. Any vegetation that is removed
                       for sight views must be replaced with vegetation that is equally (or more)
                       effective in retarding runoff, preventing erosion, and filtering nonpoint
                       source pollution from runoff.

           BLwm AFxA LAYouT CohwAwoN


                             SuffiRrAm                                    DRONAM


                        tkW shm or other RPA W                      tkW shme cr e6er RPA fedum


                                                                                         . . . . . . .. . ..




                                                                      ... ......  .......
                                                                      "@*.'* ................
                                                                ........... ...........
                                                                      X,: .. ........
                                                                        ..........

                                                      it


                    -b
                                    shrubs


                             THIS.-                                        NOTTHIS!


                                                 [Source: The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Manuall


The Middlesex County Chesapeake Bay Presercation Area Development Handbook		Page 9


5. Minimize impervious cover, such as paved driveways and rooftops, on
a site in order to promoted infiltration of stormwater into the ground.

6. Manage stormwater runoff generated from development.

	New development that exceeds 16% impervious cover on a site must
	provide Best Management Practices (BMPs) to reduce the sediment and
	pollutant load contained in the stormwater runoff leacing the site.


What are Best Management Practices (BMPs)?

Best management practices (BMPs) are structural or vegitative devices designed
to reduce sediment and pollutant loads contained in stormwater runoff.

For single family homes. the most common BMPs are dry-wells, infiltration
trenches, and vegitative practices, such as grass swales and filter strips.

	A drywell is a gravel filled excavation, into which roof runoff is
	channeled, held and allowed to infiltrate back into the soil. A dry-well
	needs to be designed for the volume of stormwater it will receive.

R
o
o
f

L
e
a
d
e								SIDE VIEW
r

 Overflow Pipe

				Splash Block
								Cap with lock


Dry Well												12 inches to Drywell
Inlet Pipe

													Filter Fabric Lines Top,
													Bottom and Sides of Dry Well

12 inches to 
Perforations



Building					Stone Fill
Foundation					1.5-3.0						Test Well of Perforated
						Inch Dia.						PVC Pipe, Anchored
													with Rebar



20 Foot 
Minimum
Setback



							[Source: The Chesapeake Bay Local Assistance Manual]





                      The AfidWexx County Chemae-zake Bay Fmgmation Area Dezc1opmentHandhook     Fage 10


                   9 An infiltration trench is similar to a dry well, but larger. Runoff is
                       diverted or carried by FVC pipe into a shallow trench that is filled with
                       stone. Runoff is allowed to drain through the stone into the underlying
                       soil.



                    9  Vegetative          practices
                       include vegetated filter
                       strips, grass swales, and
                       vegetated berms. Plants
                                                                                                  Jr.
                       help to filter pollutants                                              P
                       and nutrients out of the
                       stormwater.


                                                                                     .7niKe
                 Choosing an appropriate BA4F is                                       botI
                 based    upon      site     specific
                 information     such     as      the
                 topography, soil type, existing
                 vegetative cover, scope of development, and location of development. Other
                 factors such as aesthetics, recreational benefits, and community acceptance may
                 also be considered when selecting the best BA4P for the site.

                 7. Provide a reserve drainfield area approved by the Health Department.

                 "at is a reserve &winfield?

                 A reserve drainfield is an area of undisturbed land set aside that contains
                 suitable soils for a septic drainfield having the same capacity as the primary
                 drainfield.   This reserve drainfield area is "reserved" for future use as a
                 drainfield, if the primary drainfield on site should ever fail. This area only needs
                 to be set aside. The actual septic system is not required to be installed.
                 However, this area is not to be disturbed or developed.

                 What is the purpose of a reserve &winfield?

                 if your septic drainfield should fail, the contents of your septic system (waste
                 containing bacteria and nutrients) will leach from the system and may
                 contaminate ground and surface water that will eventually reach the
                 Chesapeake Bay. Closer to home, a failed septic system may leach waste into
                 your nearby well. If a reserve drainfield is already on site, the failed system may
                 be shut down and the dwelling may be easily and quickly connected to an
                 available drainfield, avoiding unnecessary leaching of pollutants.





                     The Aliddl=x CountE Gka-wW-ake Bay Freservation Az= DeEgLlo @ment     FaSe I I


                How do I know if my lot has soil suitable to proldde a reserve
                &winfjeld?

                Visit the Middlesex County Health Department located on Route 33 at Cook's
                Comer or call them at 758-2381 for more information.

                Do I have to comply with the Bay Act requirements if my
                lot was recorded before the Bay Act came into effect?

                Yes. Everyone must comply with the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Ordinance.
                Relief is provided, under certain circumstances, to the owners of lots recorded
                prior to the enactment of the Bay Act (prior to October 1, 1989). However,
                requirements must be met to the greatest extent possible. Exceptions and buffer
                modifications granted require the landowner to mitigate their impact to the
                Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area to the greatest extent possible.

                How can I obtain a buffer modification in order to build
                within the 100 foot RPA buffer?

                If the proposed development can not be located outside of the 100-foot buffer,
                options are available in order to obtain a modification.         For any buffer
                modification request, a Water Quality Impact Assessment (WQIA) must be
                perfonned. A WQIA designs Best Management Practices (13MPs) that will filter
                stomiwater as though a 100 foot buffer still existed on the property. A WQIA
                can be performed by a professional engineer, some land surveyors, a landscape
                architect, or another qualified professional. A WQIA and its BMPs are site
                specific and should be designed to accommodate the specific site and
                homeowner. The Planning Department staff is available for site visits during the
                design of a WQIA.

                If the lot or parcel was recorded prior to October 1, 1989, the RPA buffer may be
                modified to not less than fifty (50) feet. The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act
                Ordinance reads, "A combination of a buffer area not less than fifty (50) feet in
                width and appropriate Best Management Practices located landward of the
                buffer area which collectively achieve water quality protection, pollutant
                removal, and water resource conservation at least the equivalent of the one
                hundred (100) foot buffer area may be employed in lieu of the one hundred
                (100) foot buffer provided that it is approved by the Planning Director after
                review of the water quality impact assessment."

                If the lot or parcel was recorded prior to October 1, 1989, a buffer modification
                to less than a fifty (50) foot RPA buffer may be permitted only if an Exception to
                the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act is granted by the
                Planning Director or a Variance is granted by the Board of Zoning Appeals.





                      The jWddf=x Coun& CAMMake Bay Pivxrvation Area DeEd-op-mml              Fage 12



                If your lot was recorded between October 1, 1989 and April 21, 1993, an
                exception to the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act must be
                granted by the Planning Director or a Variance must be granted by the Board of
                Zoning Appeals for M buffer modification.

                Lots recorded after April 21, 1993, are required to provide a building site
                outside of the 100-foot RPA, so buffer modifications are not needed.
                What steps are required if I want to build a single family
                house in Nfiddlesex County?

                1. Obtain a Health Department Permit for
                    primary and reserve drainfields.
                2.  Obtain a Zoning and Building Pen-nit                         EEO
                    from the Middlesex County Planning
                    Department (phone #758-4715).

                3. fill out a Zoning and Building Pen-nit
                    Application. [See Appendix. A.]
                4.  Obtain an Erosion and Sediment Control Agreement BEFORE CLEARING, if
                    your project will be disturbing 2,500 square feet or more of land area. Even
                    if the area covered by the proposed house, or other structures, is less than
                    2,500 square feet, it is likely that more land will be cleared, graded, or
                    otherwise disturbed to allow for construction, and to provide driveways,
                    yards, and utilities. [See Appendix A.]
                5. Submit a Plot Plan, that shows: [See Appendix B for examples.]
                           Acreage of the lot orparcel
                           The date the lot was recorded
                           The location and dimensions of all existing and proposed structure(s),
                           driveway(s), sidewalk(s) Label each as existing or proposed.
                           The location of the existing septic field or the proposed septic field
                           The size of impervious area on lot (rooftops, concrete)
                           The distance from the proposed structure(s) to any stream, shoreline,
                           marsh, or wetland
                           The distance from the proposed structure(s) to all property lines
                           The delineation of the RPA and RMA
                           The delineation of the limits of land clearing or disturbance
                                                                       AiL























                       [I  The size of the area of land clearing or disturbance(in square feet)
                       [I  The location of any erosion and sediment control measures (silt fence,
                           straw bales, gravel entrance, etc.)
                           The location of any, trees (12"+ in diameter) that will be removed
                           outside of the building, driveway, well, and/or septic footprint(s)





                      The Middlesex Couno@ Gkgs-W-eake Bay I)rservation Az= DeK,@Llo ment
                                                                                                FaSe 13


                        U The location of new plants to replace trees (12"+ in diameter) that
                           will be removed outside of the building, driveway, well and/or septic
                           footprint(s) jTwo new plants are required for every tree (12"+ in
                           diameter) that is removed outside of the building, driveway, or septic
                           field footprint (s).)
                What are the required steps if I want to build a shed,
                garage, addition, or other small structure?

                Contact the Health Department in order to determine the location of any existing
                drainfields. This will insure that your proposed structure will not harm your
                existing septic system. Also, if your proposed addition is an additional bedroom
                for your house, contact the Health Department at 758-2381. Then, follow the
                same steps required for a single family house.

                What can I do within the 1 00-foot RPA buffer?

                The RPA buffer is a vegetated buffer. In order for it to serve its function of
                filtering pollutants and nutrients from ston-nwater, it must remain vegetated.
                For this reason, there are restrictions on what vegetation can be removed from
                this 100-foot buffer.

                The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act Ordinance allows the following activities
                within the RPA buffer:

                    1.  In order to maintain the functional value of the buffer area, indigenous
                        vegetation may be removed to provide for reasonable sight lines,
                        access     paths,      general
                        woodlot management, and
                        best management practices,
                        if   authorized      by     the         .3*
                        Planning Director, on a
                        case-by-case basis, upon
                        presentation                  of
                        documentation that the RPA
                        buffer will still function in a
                        manner that protects water
                        quality.    Such vegetation
                        shall be replaced with other
                        vegetation that is equally
                        effective in retarding runoff,
                        preventing     erosion, and                                         . .....-
                        filtering nonpoint source
                        pollution from runoff.





                       The Afiddlesex County (Mempeake Ba y Fi=rvation A= DeKclo ment Handhpok     Fage 14
                                                                               p


                     2. Trees may be pruned or removed only as is necessary to provide for sight
                         lines, vistas and paths.

                     3. Any path shall be constructed and surfaced so as to effectively control
                         erosion.

                     4.  Dead, diseased, or dying trees or shrubs may be removed at the discretion
                         of the landowner and silvicultural thinning may be conducted based
                         upon the recommendation of a professional forester or arborist.

                     5. For shoreline erosion control projects, trees and woody vegetation may be
                         removed, necessary control techniques employed, and appropriate
                                                                             vegetation established to
                Eradca & Sedmat                                              protect or stabilize the
                 Ca*d E*da
                                                                             shoreline, in accordance
                                                         ..........
                                                                             with the best available
                                                 &aft BIA                    technical advice subject to
                      Macka                                                  the    issuance      of     all
                                                                             required permits.




                                          GMNBM&w/RIPaP


                 [Source: VMRC Shoreline Development BMPs]

                         These projects often involve approval by the Middlesex County Wetlands
                         Board. Also, the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation
                         Shoreline Erosion Advisory Service (SEAS) at (804) 925-2468, provides free
                         consultation on shoreline erosion.

                 The Planning Director may approve activities in the RPA on a case-by-case basis. A
                 Chesapeake Bay Resource Protection Area Development Permit [See Appendix D.]
                 must be submitted for the Planning Director's approval for projects in the RPA.
                 There is no fee for this permit, and this permit application gives the applicant a form
                 to present "-documentation that the RPA buffer will still function in a manner that
                 protects water quality." The Planning Department is available for site visits and
                 advice on these proposed projects.
              F
                 if you have any questions or comments not answered in this handbook, please
                 contact the Middlesex County Planning Department at 758-4715, or visit the
                 offi     I
                 office on the second floor of the Woodward Building at the Saluda Courthouse
                          I
                 Complex. Office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m, Monday through Friday.





























 I;



               Appendix A




 a




 I






                                                                                                                                                              Page I
                                      MEDDLESEX COUNTY ZONING AND BU11DING PERNUT



                            E&S AGREEMENT                                                          FEE: 25.00             APPROVAL:

                            ZONING PERMIT                                                          FEE: 15.00

                            DATE:                                                                  APPROVAL:
                                                                                                                     ZONING ADMINISTRATOR
                                                                                                              0      see comments if checked
                            Any person aggrieved by this notice may have the right of appeal. Any appeal shall be Mad vAlhin thirty (30) days and be in
    W.                      accordance vvith Section 15.1-496.1 of the Code of Virginia. This decision shall be final and usappealable if not appealed
                            vvithin thirty (30) days.




                            BUILDING PERN41T                                                       FEE:


                            ELECTRIC PERMIT                                                        FEE:


                            PLUMBING PERMIT                                                        FEE:


                            MECHANICAL PERMIT                                                      FEE:


                            MAN. HONE PERMIT                                                       FEE:


                            DATE:                                                                  APPROVAL:
                                                                                                                     BUILDING OFFICIAL
                                                                                                              0       see comments if checked


                          PARCEL NUMBER:                                                                     ZONING DISTIUCT:

                          NIAGISTERIAL DISTRICT:                                                             CBPA:

                          SEPTIC PERMIT #:                                                                   FLOOD ZONE-

                          LAND TO BE DISTURBED:                                                              HYDROLOGIC L)NIT:


                          TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT:

                          DIRECTION TO SITE:

                          CURRENT USE:

                          PROJECT DESCRIPTION/PROPOSED USE:



                          PROPERTY OWNER:

                          MAILING ADDRESS:

                          CITY, STATE, ZIP

                          DAYTIME PHONE:

                          CONTRACTOR:

                          CONTRACTOR'S ADDRESS:

                          CITY, STATE, ZIP:

                          DAYTIME PHONE:

                          LICENSE NUMBER:                                                                    EXPIR.ATION DATE:

                          Nfiddlesex Building Department, P 0 Box 423, Saluda, VA                          23149 (804)758-4305 Fax (804)758-0061





                                                                                                                           Page 2


                    AGENT:

                    AGENT ADDRESS:

                    CITY, STATE, ZIP.

                    DAYTIME PHONE:

                    MECHANICS LIEN AGENT:

                    MECHANICS LIEN ADDRESS:

                    TELEPHONE:

                    MECHANICS LIEN AGENT - NONE DESIGNATED:

                    MANUFACTURED HOMES ONLY.

                    M[AKE:                                LENGTH:                             WLUM-

                    YEAR.                                 VALUE OF MANUFACTURED HOME-

                    SERIAL                                DATE OF ENTRY INTO COUNTY:

                    MANUFACTURED HOME PURCHASE FROM:



                    ZONING

                    0        1 hereby certify that I have the authority to make the foregoing application, that the application is
                    correct and that construction and use will conform to the Nddlesex County Zoning Ordinance,
                    Subdivision Ordinance or any other applicable laws of M[iddlesex County. I understand approval of this
                    permit is contingent upon approvals of necessary Federal and State agencies.

                    EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL AGREEMENT

                    0        In lieu of performing an E&S plan, I agree to comply with any reasonable requirements
                    determined necessary by the Erosion and Sediment Control Program AdministiWar or agent.

                    BUILDING

                    0        1 hereby certify that I have the authority to make the foregoing application, that the application is
                    correct and that construction conforms to all applicable laws of this jurisdictioiL (CHECK ONE OF THE
                    FOLLOWING: BOCA- CABQ-

                    ATTACH COPY OF STATE CONTRACTOR'S LICENSE (IF CLASS B CONTRACTOR, A
                    $2,000 PERFORMANCE BOND IS REQUIRED.)




                    SIGNATURE                                     DATE                                 DATE PERMIT ISSUED

                    FEES PAID:                                    CHECK#:                              CASH



                    (STAFF USE) COMNIENTS/CONDITIONS:










                    Middlesex Building Department, P 0 Box 423, Saluda, VA 23149 (804)7584305 Fax (804)758-0061






                                                                                                       Page 3





                         IN ORDER TO OBTAIN A BUILDING PERMIT, TBE FOLLOWING MUST
                 BE SUBMITTED:


                 -2 sets of building plans for residential, 3 sets of building plans for commercial
                 -Site plan prepared by a certified land surveyor or registered Civil Engineer showing base
                         floor and finished floor elevation if construction is within a Flood Zone.
                 -Approval of the County Health Officer for sewage and water system and any such
                         information as may be required by the Building Official
                 -For a manufactured home, a copy of the Manufacturers Installation Instructions is
                         required.
                 -A plot plan for Zoning Review that includes:
                     0   Acreage of the parcel
                     0   The date the parcel was recorded
                     0   The location and dimensions of all existing and proposed structure(s), driveway(s),
                         sidewalk(s) Label each as existing or proposed.
                     0   The location of the existing septic field or the proposed septic field
                     0   The size of impervious area on lot (rooftops, concrete)
                         The distance from the proposed structure(s) to any stream, shoreline, marsh, or
                         wetland
                         The distance from the proposed structure(s) to all property lines
                         The delineation of the RPA and RMA
                     0   The delineation of the limits of land clearing or disturbance
                         The size of the area of land clearing or disturbance(in square feet)
                         The location of any erosion and sediment control measures (silt fence, straw bales,
                         gravel entrance, etc.)
                     0   The location of any trees (12"+ in diameter) that will be removed outside of the
                         building, driveway, well, and/or septic footprint(s)
                     0   The location of new plants to replace trees (12"+ in diameter) that win be removed
                         outside of the building, driveway, well and/or septic footprint(s) (Two new plants
                         are required for every tree (12"+ in diameter) that is removed outside of the
                         building, driveway, or septic field footprint(s). I

                 When preparing the plot plan, it is preferable to use a copy of a survey. If a survey is not
                 used, be as accurate as possible when drawing property Hues.

                 NOTICE: It is the responsibility of the applicant to establish the location of the front,
                 side and rear property lines whereby the County Officials can determine that the setback
                 requirements noted in this plot plan have been met. It is the applicant's responsibility to
                 complete the plot plan.







                 Nfiddlesex Building Department, P 0 Box 423, Saluda, VA 23149 (804)758-4305 Fax (804)758-0061





                                                                                                                                 Page 4



                     BUILDING PERMIT WORKSHEET                                                    PERMIT


                     MANUFACTURED HOMM

                     Manufactured Home:                               SQ. FT. x.06      $
                     PERAM FEE ($10.00 minimum):                                        $

                     STATE MANDATED 1% FEE LEVY:                                        $

                     TOTAL DUE:                                                         $





                     BUIELDING

                     ESTIMATED VALUE OF CONSTRUCTION:                                   $

                     Square feet calculations:
                     I st Floor:                            SQ. Fr.            Porch(s):                              SQ. FT.
                     2nd Floor:                             SQ. Fr.            Patio(s)/Deck(s):                      SQ. FT.
                     Loft:                                  So. Fr.            Garage/Carport:                        SQ. FT
                     Basement:                              SQ. Fr.            Boathouse:                             SQ. FT

                     Storage Bldgs/Sheds:                   SQ. FT.            Relocation Fee:                        SQ. FT.

                                                            All Commercial Construction:                              SQ. FT.


                               TOTAL SOUARE FEET =                 - SQ. Fr. x.06 = $


                     signs: $ 10 +                 X-=                         SQ. Fr. x .03 = $


                     Remodeling, Alterations, Bulkheads, Piers, Miscellaneous Marine Structures, Swimming Pools, Chimney,
                     Fireplace, any other:


                               ESTIMATED COST:                        $6/$1,000 of cost           $



                     Demolition Fee : $ 10. 00                                                    $



                     PERAW FEE ($10.00 minimum):                                                  $

                     STATE MANDATED 1% FEE LEVY OF PERMIT FEE:                                    $


                     TOTAL DUE:                                                                   $







                     Middlesex Building Department, P 0 Box 423, Saluda, VA 23149 (804)758-4305 Fax (804)758-0061





























 a



               Appendix B








    R. Nicholas Hahn                                                                                               G. David Selph
    Director of Planning                                                                                     Zoning Administrator




                                                TsWa) 10 RaMlegin
                                                       Deparlment of Planning

                            Plot Plan Worksheet Information

                  A Plot Plan is required as part of the Middlesex County Zoning Permit Application. The
                  attached worksheet provides a checklist to help you insure that your Plot Plan is
                  complete. An incomplete or an inaccurate Plot Plan will cause a delay in the processing
                  of your Permit Application.

                  The following four pages are examples of Plot Plans.

                  Do not hesitate to contact the Mddlesex County Planning and Community Development
                  Office at (804) 758-4715 with any questions. This office can discuss the requirements of
                  a Plot Plan, inform you of the setback requirements for your proposed structure, and
                  inform you of the location of any Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas.




























                           P.O. Box 427, Saluda, Virginia 23149  Phone: (804) 758-4715 Fax: (804) 758-0061











                Permit


                Property
                Owner:                                                        Tax Map:

                Plot Plan Worksheet

                Include all of the following information on the plot plan:
                        Acreage of the lot or parcel
                        The date the lot was recorded
                        The location and dimensions of all existing and proposed structure(s), driveway(s),
                        sidewalk(s) Label each as existing or proposed.
                     0  The location of the existing septic field or the proposed septic field
                     0  The size of impervious area on lot (rooftops, concrete)
                     0  The distance from the proposed structure(s) to any stream, shoreline, marsh, or
                        wetland
                     0  The distance from the proposed structure(s) to all property fines
                     0  The delineation ofthe RPA and RMA
                     0  The delineation of the limits of land clearing or disturbance
                        The size of the area of land clearing or disturbance(in square feet)
                        71he location of any erosion and sediment control measures (silt fence, straw bales,
                        gravel entrance, etc.)
                        The location of any trees (12"+ in diameter) that will be removed outside of the
                        building, driveway, well, and/or septic footprint(s)
                        The location of new plants to replace trees (12"+ in diameter) that will be removed
                        outside of the building, driveway, well and/or septic footprint(s) (Two new plants
                        are required for every tree (12"+ in diameter) that is removed outside of the
                        building, driveway, or septic field footprint(s).









                 NOTICE: It is the responsibility of the, applicant to establish the location of the front,
                 side and rear property lines whereby the County Officials can determine that the setback
                 requirements noted in this plot plan have been met. It is the applicant's responsibility to
                 complete the plot plan.





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                       Chesapeake Bay Resource Protecition Area
                                          Development Permit

            In accordance with Final Regulation: VR 173-02-01. Chesapeake Bgy Preservation Area
            Designation and Management Regulation and SS 10. 1-2103 & 10. 1-2107 of Chapter 21 of Title
            10. 1 of the Code of Virginia (The Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act), Middlesex County is
            required to regulate the use and development of land in the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas.

            To be completed by the applicant: Please complete the following information. An
            incomplete application may cause your permit to be delayed. Type or print legibly. Attach
            a site plan of the proposed project. The Zoning Ordinance allows thirty (30) days for
            consideration of this permit.

            Property                                                           Phone
            Owner:                                                             Number:


            Address:

            Tax Map and Parcel Number:

            Directions to the project:



            Description of the project:



            Distance from the shoreline, tidal wetlands or connected non-tidal wetlands:

            Description of vegetation to be removed during the span of the project:



            Description of replacement veg etation:



            Total amount of land disturbance in square feet:

            I hereby certify that the foregoing information and attachments are true and accurate to the best
            of my knowledge. I understand approval of this permit is contingent upon compliance to all
            requirements stated above and attached. failure to comply can and may result in revocation of
            approval and/or stop of work order.



            Date                                  Owner/Applicant Signature

                                                                                Permit # RPA-








           A plat showing the following is required unless waived by the Director of
           Planning: (Waived if noted by the Planning Department.)

                               RPA/RMA delineation


                               Permanent benchmarks showing the location of the proposed project

                               Existing vegetation to be removed.

                               Proposed vegetation to replace existing vegetation

                               Erosion and sediment control requirements

                               Best Management Practices

                               Water Quality Impact Assessment


           Comments:






           To be completed by the Planning Department:

           Meets Ordinance Requirements            YES          NO     Section

           Administrative waiver or exception      YES          NO


           Comments:









           Approval by the Planning Department:





           Date                                    Planning Director





                                                                                                                                     140AA COAST