The purpose of this article is to regulate the intensity of use in areas of steeply sloping terrain in order to limit soil loss, erosion, excessive stormwater runoff, the degradation of surface water and to maintain the natural topography and drainage patterns of land.
Disturbance of steep slopes results in accelerated erosion processes from stormwater runoff and the subsequent sedimentation of water bodies with the associated degradation of water quality and loss of aquatic life support. Related effects include soil loss, changes in natural topography and drainage patterns, increased flooding potential, further fragmentation of forest and habitat areas, and compromised aesthetic values. It has become widely recognized that disturbance of steep slopes should be restricted or prevented due to the potential impact on water quality and quantity, and the environmental integrity of landscapes.
As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
CUT A location where a slope has been steepened by an excavation.
DISTURBANCE The placement of impervious surface, the exposure or movement of soil or bedrock, or the clearing, cutting, or removing of vegetation.
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE Any structure, surface, or improvement that reduces or prevents absorption of stormwater into land, and includes porous paving, paver blocks, gravel, crushed stone, decks, patios, elevated structures, and other similar structures, surfaces, or improvements.
MINOR DISTURBANCE Any disturbance equal to or greater than 300 square feet, but less than 1,000 square feet.
PERCENT SLOPE Rise in feet divided by horizontal distance in feet, with the result multiplied by 100.
REDEVELOPMENT The construction of structures or improvements on areas which previously contained structures or other improvements.
STEEP SLOPE Any slope equal to or greater than 15% as measured over any minimum run of 10 feet, perpendicular to the contour of the slope, based on contour intervals of two feet or less.
For designated steep slope areas, any nonexempt disturbance shall require a permit under this article, except as provided below as confirmed by the Township Engineer:
A. Redevelopment (or rebuilding after a disaster) within the limits of existing impervious surfaces;
B. Addition to an existing single-family home where new disturbance to a precautionary slope area is less than 300 square feet (i.e., a de minimis disturbance);
C. New disturbance necessary to protect public health, safety or welfare, such as necessary linear development with no feasible alternative, or to provide an environmental benefit, such as remediation of a contaminated site.
The requirements of this article shall be enforced by the Township Engineer or his designee who shall conduct investigations when any person or entity is believed to be in violation hereof. Any person or entity that violates any provision of this article shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished by a fine not exceeding $2,000. The violation of any section or subsection of this article shall constitute a separate and distinct offense independent of the violation of any other section or subsection, or of any order issued pursuant to this article. Each day a violation continues shall be considered a separate offense.
The owner of the property, all successors and any other person or agent in control of the property shall properly maintain in good condition and promptly repair and restore all improvements permitted under this article.
Following completion of construction or other activity, the owner shall apply for approval by the Township Engineer or his designee. Such approval shall not be issued until the Township Engineer or his designee certifies that all matters are in compliance with the plans submitted pursuant to this article.