A.Â
All terms not defined in this chapter but which are defined
in the Lower Paxton Township Zoning Ordinance shall have the meanings
therein defined. Unless otherwise expressly stated, the following
words shall, for the purpose of this chapter, have the meanings herein
indicated.
B.Â
For the purposes of this chapter, certain terms and words
used herein shall be interpreted as follows:
(1)Â
Words used in the present tense include the future
tense; the singular number includes the plural, and the plural number
includes the singular; words of masculine gender include feminine
gender; and words of feminine gender include masculine gender.
(2)Â
The word "includes" or "including" shall not limit
the term to the specific example but is intended to extend its meaning
to all other instances of like kind and character.
(3)Â
The words "shall" and "must" are mandatory; the
words "may" and "should" are permissive.
C.Â
ACCELERATED EROSION
ACCELERATED RUNOFF
ACT 167 PLAN
AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS
ALTERATION
APPLICANT
APPLICATION FOR DEVELOPMENT
AS-BUILT PLANS
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION
BMP MANUAL
BMPs (BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES)
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS
BUILDING LOT
BUILDING SETBACK LINE
CHANNEL
CHANNEL EROSION
CHANNEL, MAIN
CISTERN
COMMON ELEMENTS
(1)Â
(2)Â
(3)Â
(4)Â
(5)Â
(6)Â
(7)Â
COMMON OPEN SPACE
CONDOMINIUM
CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION
CONSERVATION DISTRICT
COUNTY
CROSSWALK
CUL-DE-SAC
CULVERT
CURB
CURB CUT
CURVE NUMBER
CUT
DAM
DEP
DESIGN STORM
DESIGNEE
DETENTION BASIN
DETENTION FACILITIES, REGIONAL
DETENTION POND
DETENTION VOLUME
DEVELOPER
DEVELOPMENT
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
DEVELOPMENT SITE
DISTURBED AREA
DOWNSLOPE PROPERTY LINE
DRAINAGE
(1)Â
(2)Â
DRAINAGE AREA
DRAINAGE CONVEYANCE FACILITY
DRAINAGE EASEMENT
DRAINAGE FACILITY
DRAINAGE PLAN
DRAINAGE SYSTEM
DRAINAGEWAY
DRIVEWAY
DWELLING or DWELLING UNIT
DWELLING, MOBILE HOME
EARTH DISTURBANCE ACTIVITY
EASEMENT
ENGINEER, PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEER, TOWNSHIP/MUNICIPAL
ENGINEERING LAND SURVEYS
(1)Â
(2)Â
(3)Â
(4)Â
(5)Â
(6)Â
ENGINEERING SPECIFICATIONS
EROSION
EROSION AND SEDIMENT POLLUTION CONTROL PLAN
EXCAVATION
EXCEPTIONAL-VALUE WATERS
EXISTING CONDITIONS
EXISTING GRADE
FEMA
FILL
(1)Â
(2)Â
(3)Â
FINISHED GRADE
FLOOD
FLOOD FRINGE
FLOOD HAZARD BOUNDARY MAP (FHBM)
FLOOD HAZARD, AREAS OF SPECIAL
FLOOD, BASE (100-YEAR FLOOD)
FLOODPLAIN
FLOODPROOFING
FLOODWAY
FOREST MANAGEMENT/TIMBER OPERATIONS
FREEBOARD
FUTURE
FUTURE CONDITIONS
FUTURE RIGHT-OF-WAY
GOVERNING BODY
GRADE
GRADE, EXISTING
GRADE, FINISHED
GRADE, TO
GRASSED WATERWAY
GROUNDWATER RECHARGE
HEC-HMS MODEL CALIBRATED
HIGH-QUALITY WATERS
HOMEOWNERS' ASSOCIATION
HYDROLOGIC SOIL GROUP (HSG)
IDENTIFIED FLOODPLAIN OR DISTRICT
ILLICIT DISCHARGE
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE (IMPERVIOUS AREA)
IMPOUNDMENT
IMPROVEMENTS
INFILTRATION STRUCTURE
INLET
KARST
LAND DEVELOPMENT (DEVELOPMENT)
(1)Â
(a)Â
(b)Â
(2)Â
(3)Â
(a)Â
(b)Â
(c)Â
(d)Â
[1]Â
[2]Â
[3]Â
[4]Â
LAND/EARTH DISTURBANCE
LANDOWNER
LIMIT OF DISTURBANCE
LIMITED ACCESS HIGHWAY
LOT
LOT AREA
LOT, DOUBLE-FRONTAGE
LOT, REVERSE-FRONTAGE
MAIN STEM (MAIN CHANNEL)
MAINTENANCE
MANNING'S EQUATION (MANNING'S FORMULA)
MASTER DEED
MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE
MOBILE HOME LOT
MOBILE HOME PARK
MOBILE HOME, DWELLING
MODIFIED RATIONAL METHOD
MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY
MUNICIPALITY
NATIONAL POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM (NPDES)
NATURAL DRAINAGE FLOW
NEW IMPERVIOUS SURFACE (NEW IMPERVIOUS AREA)
NOAA ATLAS 14
NON-POINT-SOURCE POLLUTION
NRCS
OBSTRUCTION
OPEN CHANNEL
OPEN SPACE, COMMON
OPEN SPACE, PUBLIC
OUTFALL
OUTLET
PADEP
PARKING LOT STORAGE
PEAK DISCHARGE
PERSON
PERVIOUS SURFACE (AREA)
PIPE
PLAN, COMPREHENSIVE
PLAN, FINAL
PLAN, PRELIMINARY
PLAN, SKETCH
PLANNING COMMISSION
PMF (PROBABLE MAXIMUM FLOOD)
POINT SOURCE
POLLUTANT
POLLUTION
PRESENT
PRESENT CONDITIONS
PRINCIPAL BUILDING or PRINCIPAL USE
PRIVATE ROAD
PROBABLE MAXIMUM FLOOD (PMF)
PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANTS
PROFILE LINE
PROJECT SITE
PUBLIC GROUNDS
PUBLIC HEARING
PUBLIC MEETING
PUBLIC NOTICE
QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL
RATIONAL FORMULA
REAL ESTATE
REDEVELOPMENT
REGULATED ACTIVITIES
REGULATED EARTH DISTURBANCE ACTIVITY
REGULATORY FLOOD ELEVATION
RELEASE RATE
RELEASE RATE DISTRICT
RESERVE STRIP
RETENTION BASIN
RETENTION VOLUME/REMOVED RUNOFF
RETURN PERIOD
REVERSE-FRONTAGE LOT
RIGHT-OF-WAY, STREET
RIPARIAN BUFFER
RISER
ROAD MAINTENANCE
ROOFTOP DETENTION
RUNOFF
RUNOFF CAPTURE VOLUME
SANITARY SEWAGE SYSTEM (COMMUNITY)
SANITARY SEWER (PUBLIC)
SCS
SEDIMENT
SEDIMENT BASIN
SEDIMENT POLLUTION
SEDIMENTATION
SEEPAGE PIT/SEEPAGE TRENCH
SEMIPERVIOUS SURFACE
SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM
SEPTIC SYSTEM
SERVICE DRIVE (PRIVATE)
SETBACK LINE
SHEET FLOW
SIDEWALK
SIGHT DISTANCE
SLOPE
SOIL COVER COMPLEX METHOD
SOIL STABILIZATION
SPEED, DESIGN
SPEED, OPERATING
SPEED, POSTED
SPILLWAY (EMERGENCY)
STATE WATER QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
(1)Â
(2)Â
(3)Â
(4)Â
STORAGE INDICATION METHOD (MODIFIED PULS)
STORM FREQUENCY
STORM SEWER
STORMWATER
STORMWATER CONTROL FACILITIES
STORMWATER CONTROL PLAN (DRAINAGE PLAN)
STORMWATER DETENTION
STORMWATER DETENTION BASIN
STORMWATER HOTSPOT
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FACILITIES
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SITE PLAN (SWM SITE PLAN)
STREAM
STREAM ENCLOSURE
STREET
STREET GRADE
STREET WIDTH
STRUCTURE
SUBDIVIDER
SUBDIVISION
SUBSTANTIALLY COMPLETED
SUBWATERSHED AREA (SUBAREA)
SURFACE DRAINAGE PLAN
SURFACE WATERS OF THE COMMONWEALTH
SURVEYOR, PROFESSIONAL LAND
SWALE
TIMBER OPERATIONS
TIME OF CONCENTRATION (Tc)
TOPOGRAPHICAL MAP
TOPOGRAPHY
TOPSOIL
TOWNSHIP
UNDEVELOPED LAND
UNIT
USDA
UTILITY, PUBLIC OR PRIVATE
(1)Â
(2)Â
VEGETATIVE COVER
VERGE
WATER POLLUTION
WATER TABLE
WATERCOURSE
WATERS OF THE COMMONWEALTH
WATERSHED
WETLAND
Definitions.
The removal of the surface of the land through the combined
action of human activity and the natural processes at a rate greater
than would occur because of the natural process alone.
Runoff occurring at rates in excess of rates occurring under
natural, undisturbed conditions.
Plans prepared in accordance with Pennsylvania's Stormwater
Management Act (Act 167 of 1978). The Act requires counties to prepare
and adopt watershed based stormwater management plans, and it requires
municipalities to adopt and implement ordinances to regulate development
consistent with these plans.
An enterprise that is actively engaged in the commercial
production and preparation for market of crops, livestock and livestock
products in the production, harvesting and preparation for market
or use of agricultural, agronomic, horticultural, silvicultural and
aquacultural crops and commodities. The term includes an enterprise
that implements changes in production practices and procedures or
types of crops, livestock, livestock products or commodities produced
consistent with practices and procedures that are normally engaged
by farmers or are consistent with technological development within
the agricultural industry. Construction of new buildings or impervious
area is not considered an agricultural activity.
As applied to land, a change in topography as a result of
the moving of soil and rock from one location or position to another;
changing of surface conditions by causing the surface to be more or
less impervious; land disturbance.
A landowner or developer, as hereinafter defined, who has
filed an application for development, including his heirs, successors
and assigns.
Every application, whether preliminary, tentative or final,
required to be filed and approved prior to start of construction or
development, including but not limited to an application for a building
permit, for the approval of a subdivision plat or plan or for the
approval of a development plan.
Plans prepared and certified by a professional land surveyor
depicting the exact location, orientation, and elevation of all site
improvements, which exist as a result of construction activities.
As-built plans are also referred to as record drawings or record plans.
The 100-year flood elevation as indicated in a Flood Insurance
Study (FIS), as revised, for Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin County,
Pennsylvania, prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency,
Federal Insurance Administration, that indicates the water surface
elevation resulting from a flood that has a 1% chance of equaling
or exceeding that level in any given year.
The Pennsylvania Stormwater best management practices Manual
as published by the Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau
of Watershed Management, Document Number: 363-0300-002, effective
date: December 30, 2006, and as revised.
Activities, facilities, designs, measures, or procedures
used to manage stormwater impacts from earth disturbance activities;
to meet state water quality requirements; to promote groundwater recharge;
and to otherwise meet the purposes of this chapter. BMPs include,
but are not limited to: infiltration facilities, filter strips, low-impact
design, bioretention, wet ponds, permeable paving, grassed swales,
forested buffers, sand filters, and detention basins.
The Board of Supervisors of Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin
County, Pennsylvania.
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by
plat or otherwise as permitted by law and to be used, developed or
built upon as a unit.
The line within a property defining the required minimum
distance between any principal or accessory structure and adjacent
right-of-way and the line defining side and rear yards, where required.
A passage for water (or other fluids) to flow through.
The widening, deepening, and headward cutting of small channels
and waterways, due to erosion caused by moderate to large floods.
The downstream later receiving channel designated in the
Act 167 Plans that accepts the discharge of undetained post-development
peak runoff without causing any harm for the given design storm.
An underground reservoir or tank for storing rainwater.
Land amenities, parts of building, central services and utilities,
and any other elements and facilities owned and used by all unit owners
and are designated as common elements. These elements may include,
but are not limited to:
The land on which the building is located and
portions of the building which are not included in a unit.
The foundation, structural parts, supports, main
walls, roofs, basements, halls, corridors, lobbies, stairways and
entrances and exits of the building.
The yards, parking area and driveways.
Portions of the land and building used exclusively
for the management, operation or maintenance of the common elements.
Installations of all central services and utilities.
All other elements of the building necessary or
convenient to its existence, management, operation, maintenance and
safety or normally in common use.
Such other facilities as are designated as common
elements.
A parcel, or parcels of land or an area of water, or a combination
of land and water within a development site and designed and intended
for the use and enjoyment of residents of a development, not including
streets, off street parking areas and areas set aside for public facilities.
Real estate, portions of which are designated for separate
ownership and the remainder of which is designated for common ownership
solely by the owners for those portions. Real estate is not a condominium
unless the undivided interest in the common elements are vested in
the unit owners.
The community association which administers and maintains
the common property and common elements of a condominium.
The Dauphin County Conservation District.
County of Dauphin, Pennsylvania.
A right-of-way, publicly or privately owned, intended to
furnish access to pedestrians.
A minor street open at one end for vehicular and pedestrian
access with the opposite end terminating in a vehicular turnaround.
A pipe, conduit or similar structure, including appurtenant
works, which carries surface water under a roadway or other structure.
A cut stone, asphalt or concrete boundary usually marking
the edge of the roadway, driveway or other paved areas.
The opening along the curb line at which point vehicles may
enter or leave the roadway or other paved area.
A numerical designation which reflects amounts of runoff
based on land use and hydrological soil group.
An excavation. The difference between a point on the original
ground and designated point of lower elevation on the final grade;
also, the material removed from an excavation.
Any artificial barrier, together with its appurtenant works,
constructed for the purpose of impounding or storing water or any
other fluid or semi-fluid or any refuse bank, fill or structure for
highway, railroad or other purposes which does or may impound water
or any other fluid or semi-fluid.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
The magnitude of precipitation from a storm event measured
in probability of occurrence and duration and used in computing stormwater
management control systems.
An agent of the governing body involved with the administration,
review or enforcement of any provisions of this chapter by employment,
contract, or memorandum of understanding.
A basin designed to retard stormwater runoff by temporarily
storing the runoff and releasing it at a predetermined rate.
A detention facility that detains and treats stormwater runoff
for two or more development sites, where the development sites are
generally considered to be independent and typically would contain
their own separate detention facilities.
A vegetated pond designed to collect water runoff for a given
storm event and release it at a predetermined rate; also known as
a "dry pond."
The volume of runoff that is captured and released during
or after a storm event into waters of the commonwealth at a controlled
rate.
Any landowner, agent of such landowner, or tenant with the
permission of such landowner, who makes or causes to be made a subdivision
of land or a land development.
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, filling,
grading, paving, excavating, earth disturbance activity, mining, dredging
or drilling operations, the placement of manufactured homes, streets
and other paving, utilities and the subdivision of land.
The provisions for development, including a planned residential
development, a plat of subdivision, all covenants relating to use,
location and bulk of buildings and other structures, intensity of
use or density of development, streets, ways and parking facilities,
common open space and public facilities. The phrase "provisions of
development plan" when used in this chapter, shall mean the written
and graphic materials referred to in this definition.
The specific parcel or tract of land for which a development
activity is proposed.
An unstabilized land area where an earth disturbance activity
is occurring or has occurred.
That portion of the property line of the lot, tract, or parcels
of land being developed located such that all overland or pipe flow
from the site would be directed toward it.
Surface water runoff.
The removal of surface water or groundwater from
land by drains, grading or other means which include runoff controls
to minimize erosion and sedimentation during and after construction
or development, the means for preserving the water supply and the
prevention or alleviation of flooding.
That area in which all of the surface runoff resulting from
precipitation is concentrated into a particular point of interest.
Any ditch, gutter, swale, culvert, storm sewer or other structure
designed, intended or constructed for the purpose of diverting surface
waters from or carrying surface waters off streets, public rights-of-way,
parks, recreational areas or any parts of any subdivision or land
development.
An easement required for the installation and maintenance
of storm sewers, drainage ditches, other drainage facilities, and/or
required for the preservation or maintenance of a natural watercourse,
drainageway, channel or stream.
Any ditch, gutter, swale, culvert, storm sewer, or other
system designed, intended, or constructed for the purpose of diverting
surface waters from or carrying surface waters off streets, public
rights-of-way, parks, recreational areas or any part of any subdivision
or land development.
The documentation of the design and analysis of a stormwater
management or drainage system, if any, to be used for a given development
site.
Pipes, swales, natural features and man-made improvements
designated to carry drainage.
Any natural or artificial watercourse, trench, ditch, pipe,
swale, channel, or similar depression into which surface water flows.
A private access drive providing access for vehicles to a
parking area, space, garage, dwelling or other structure, including
nonresidential structures.
A single unit providing complete independent living facilities
for one or more persons including permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
A transportable, single-family dwelling intended for permanent
occupancy, contained in one unit, or in two or more units designed
to be joined into one integral unit capable of again being separated
for repeated towing, which arrives at a site complete and ready for
occupancy except for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations,
and constructed so that it may be used without a permanent foundation.
A construction or other human activity which disturbs the
surface of the land, including, but not limited to, clearing and grubbing,
grading, excavations, embankments, road maintenance, building construction
and the moving, depositing, stockpiling, or storing of soil, rock
or earth materials.
A right-of-way granted for the limited use of land for public,
quasi-public or private purposes.
An individual licensed and registered under the laws of the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to engage in the practice of engineering.
A professional engineer may not practice land surveying unless licensed
as set forth in P.L. 534, No. 230; however, a professional engineer
may perform engineering land surveys.
A registered professional engineer in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania designated by the Township to perform the duties of engineer
as herein specified.
Surveys for:
The development of any tract of land including
the incidental design of related improvements, such as line and grade
extension of roads, sewers and grading but not requiring independent
engineering judgment; providing, however, that tract perimeter surveys
shall be the function of the professional land surveyor.
The determination of the configuration or contour
of the earth's surface, or the position of fixed objects thereon
or related thereto by means of measuring lines and angles and applying
the principles of mathematics, photogrammetry or other measurement
methods. Geodetic or cadastral survey, underground survey and hydrographic
survey.
Erosion and sedimentation control surveys.
The determination of the quantities of materials.
Tests for water percolation in soils.
The preparation of plans and specifications and
estimates of proposed work as described herein.
The engineering specifications of the Township regulating
the installation of any required improvements or for any facility
installed by any owner, subject to public use.
The process involving the detachment and movement of soil
or rock fragments, or the wearing away of the land surface or channels
by water, ice, wind, chemical action and gravity.
A plan which is designed to minimize accelerated erosion
and sedimentation.
Any act by which earth, sand, gravel, rock or any other similar
material is dug into, cut, quarried, uncovered, removed, displaced,
relocated or bulldozed. It shall include the conditions resulting
thereof.
Surface waters of high quality, which satisfies Pennsylvania
Code, Title 25, Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality
Standards, 93.4b(b) (relating to antidegradation).
The initial condition of a project site prior to the proposed
subdivision, land development or construction.
The vertical location of the ground surface prior to excavation
or filling.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Any act by which earth, sand, gravel, rock or
any other material is placed, pushed, dumped, pulled, transported
or moved to a new location above the natural surface of the ground
or on top of the stripped surface and shall include the conditions
resulting therefrom.
The difference in elevation between a point on
the original ground and designated point of higher elevation on the
final grade.
The material used to make a fill.
The proposed elevation of the land surface of a site after
completion of all site preparation work.
A general but temporary condition of partial or complete
inundation of normally dry land areas from the overflow of streams,
rivers, and other waters of the commonwealth.
That portion of the floodplain outside the floodway.
An official map of a community, issued by the Federal Insurance
Administration.
The land in the floodplain within a community subject to
a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year.
A flood that on the average, is likely to occur once every
100 years (i.e., that has a 1% chance of occurring each year, although
the flood may occur in any year.)
Any land area susceptible to inundation by water from any
natural source or as delineated by applicable Department of Housing
and Urban Development, Federal Insurance Administration Flood Hazard
Boundary - mapped as being a special flood hazard area.
Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes or adjustments to proposed and existing structures which reduce
or eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real property,
water and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents.
The channel of the watercourse and those portions of the
adjoining floodplains that are reasonably required to carry and discharge
the 100-year-frequency flood. Unless otherwise specified, the boundary
of the floodway is as indicated on maps and flood insurance studies
provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). In an
area where no FEMA maps or studies have defined the boundary of the
100-year frequency floodway, it is assumed, absent evidence to the
contrary, that the floodway extends from the stream to 50 feet from
the top of each of the banks of the stream.
Planning and activities necessary for the management of forestland.
These include timber inventory and preparation of forest management
plans, silvicultural treatment, cutting budgets, logging road design
and construction, timber harvesting, site preparation and reforestation.
A vertical distance between the elevation of the design high
water and the top of a dam, levee, tank, basin, or diversion ridge.
The space is required as a safety margin in a pond or basin.
Post-development (as with future condition or runoff).
Proposed land use.
The Board of Supervisors of Lower Paxton Township, Dauphin
County, Pennsylvania.
A slope, usually of a road, channel or natural ground specified
in percent and shown on plans as specified herein.
See definition of "existing grade."
See definition of "finished grade."
To finish the surface of a roadbed, top of embankment or
bottom of excavation.
A natural or constructed waterway, usually broad and shallow,
covered with erosion-resistant grasses, used to convey surface water.
Replenishment of existing natural underground water supplies.
(Hydrologic Engineering Center Hydrologic Modeling System)
A computer-based hydrologic model technique adapted to the Paxton
Creek, Spring Creek and Multi-Creek Watersheds for the Act 167 Plans.
The model has been calibrated by adjusting key model input parameters.
Surface water having quality which exceeds levels necessary
to support propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation
in and on the water by satisfying Pennsylvania Code Title 25, Environmental
Protection, Chapter 93 Water Quality Standards, 93.4b(a).
A community association which administers and maintains common
property in a development, including a unit owners' association
as defined in the Uniform Condominium Act, 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 3101
et seq., and the Uniform Planned Community Act, 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 5101
et seq.
Infiltration rates of soils vary widely and are affected
by subsurface permeability as well as surface intake rates. Soils
are classified into four HSG's (A, B, C, and D) according to
their minimum infiltration rate, which is obtained for bare soil after
prolonged wetting. The Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS)
of the United States Department of Agriculture defines the four groups
and provides a list of most of the soils in the United States and
their group classification. The soils in the area of interest may
be identified from a soil survey report, which can be obtained from
the local NRCS office or Dauphin County Conservation District office.
Those floodplain areas specifically designated in the Lower
Paxton Township Zoning Ordinance (§ 203-504D) as being inundated
by the 100-year flood. Included would be areas identified as the Floodway
(FW) and the Flood Fringe (FF).
Any discharge to a municipal separate storm sewer or stormwater
conveyance that is not entirely composed of stormwater.
A surface that prevents the percolation of water into the
ground. Impervious surfaces include, but are not limited to: any roof,
parking or driveway areas, and any new streets and sidewalks. For
purposes of stormwater runoff analysis, any surface areas existing
or proposed to be gravel or crushed stone shall also be assumed to
be impervious surfaces.
A retention or detention basin designed to retain stormwater
runoff and release it at a controlled rate.
Any man-made, not readily movable item which becomes part
of, placed upon or is affixed to, real estate.
A constructed device, such as a seepage pit, trench drain
or infiltration pond, designed to facilitate the infiltration of runoff
into the soil.
A type of topography or landscape characterized by depressions,
sinkholes, limestone towers and steep-sided hills, underground drainage,
and caves. Karst is formed on carbonate rocks, such as limestone or
dolomites and sometimes gypsum.
Any of the following activities:
The improvement of one lot or two or more contiguous
lots, tracts or parcels of land for any purpose involving:
A group of two or more residential or nonresidential
buildings, whether proposed initially or cumulatively, or a single
nonresidential building on a lot or lots regardless of the number
or occupants or tenure; or
The division or allocation of land or space,
whether initially or cumulatively, between or among two or more existing
or prospective occupants by means of, or for the purpose of, streets,
common areas, leaseholds, condominiums, building groups or other features.
A subdivision of land.
"Land development" does not include development
which involves:
The conversion of an existing single-family detached
dwelling or single-family semidetached dwelling into not more than
three residential units, unless such units are intended to be a condominium.
The addition of an accessory building, including
farm building, on a lot or lots subordinate to an existing principal
building.
The addition or conversion of buildings or rides
within the confines of an enterprise which would be considered an
amusement park. For purposes of this subsection, an "amusement park"
is defined as tract or area used principally as a location for permanent
amusement structures or rides. This exclusion shall not apply to newly
acquired acreage by an amusement park until initial plans for the
expanded area have been approved by the proper authorities.
Where an addition of no more than 15% of the
square footage is being added to an existing building, but in no case
of an addition of more than 2,000 square feet, a building permit and
site plan approval is required to be obtained from the appropriate
officer of the Township but, submission of a land development plan
and review by the Planning Commission and approval by the Board of
Supervisors may be waived, only when:
The building is added to the existing structure
and is not separated; and
There is no change to any street or public way;
and
There is no interference or substantial change
to drainage or the flow of water; and
The appropriate building officer of the Township
determines that the same is otherwise in compliance with all zoning
and land development requirements.
Any activity involving grading, excavating, digging, or filling
of ground or stripping of vegetation or any other activity that causes
an alteration to the natural condition of the land.
The legal or beneficial owner or owners of land including
the holder of an option or contract to purchase (whether or not such
option or contract is subject to any condition), a lessee if he is
authorized under the lease to exercise the rights of the landowner
or other person having a proprietary interest in land.
A line provided on the SWM site plan that indicates the total
area to be disturbed during a proposed earth disturbance activity.
A street, roadway, or highway which carries a large volume
of traffic at relatively high speeds with access controlled at designated
points and not specifically from adjacent properties.
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by
a plat or otherwise as permitted by law and to be used, developed
or built upon as a unit.
The area contained within the property lines of a lot as
shown on a subdivision plan excluding space within any street rights-of-way
but including the area of any easement or utility right-of-way.
An interior lot having frontage on two streets.
A lot extending between and having frontage on an arterial
street and a minor street, and with vehicular access solely from the
latter.
Any stream segment or other runoff conveyance facility used
as a reach in the Paxton Creek, Spring Creek or Multi-Creek Watershed
hydrologic models.
Provisions to ensure proper functioning, safety, structural
integrity, weed and pest control, aesthetic appeal or any other measures
required to maintain facilities to a standard as approved under the
requirements of this chapter.
A method for calculation of velocity of flow (e.g., feet
per second) and flow rate (e.g., cubic feet per second) in open channels
based upon channel shape, roughness, depth of flow and slope. "Open
channels" may include closed conduits so long as the flow is not under
pressure.
A legal instrument under which title to real estate is conveyed
and by which a condominium is created and established.
The minimum distance between the discharge of runoff from
impervious surfaces and the receiving stream, storm sewer, or property
line, whichever is smaller, whether the discharge is from a point
or non-point source. It is intended to provide ample, natural, undisturbed
vegetated pervious areas to allow for infiltration of increased volumes
of runoff caused by development.
A parcel of land in a mobile home park, improved with the
necessary utility connections and other appurtenances necessary for
the erections thereon of a single mobile home.
A parcel or contiguous parcels of land which has been so
designated and improved that it contains two or more mobile home lots
for the placement thereon of mobile homes.
See definition of "dwelling mobile home."
Variation of rational methodology; used to generate hydrographs
and required detention volume.
A body politic and corporate created pursuant to the Act
of May 2, 1945 (P.L. 382, No. 164), known as the "Municipalities Authority
Act of 1945."
Any city of the second class A or third class, borough, incorporated
town, Township of the first or second class, county of the second
class through eighth class, home rule municipality, or any similar
general purpose unit of government which shall hereafter be created
by the General Assembly.
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, the federal
government's system for issuance of permits under the Clean Water
Act, which is delegated to PADEP in Pennsylvania.
The pattern of surface and stormwater drainage from a particular
site before the construction or installation of improvements or prior
to any grading operations.
Impervious surface or area constructed after the effective
date of Ordinance 10-06, as amended by Ordinance 11-06, excluding
impervious surface or area that was constructed to replace an impervious
surface or area that preexisted the effective date of Ordinance 10-06,
as amended by Ordinance 11-06, provided that the location, size and
dimensions of the replacement of the preexisting impervious surface
or area are the same as the preexisting impervious surface or area.
Precipitation-Frequency Atlas of the United States, Atlas
14, Volume 2, United States Department of Commerce, National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, Hydrometeorological
Design Studies Center, Silver Spring, Maryland (2004). NOAA's
Atlas 14 can be accessed at Internet address: http://hdsc.nws.noaa.gov/hdsc/pfds/.
Pollution that enters a water body from diffuse origins in
the watershed and does not result from discernible, confined, or discrete
conveyances.
Natural Resource Conservation Service [previously Soil Conservation
Service (SCS)].
Any wall, dam, wharf, embankment, levee, dike, projection,
excavation, channel, rectification, culvert, building, fence, stockpile,
refuse, fill, structure or matter in, along, across or projecting
into any channel, watercourse or flood-prone area, which may impede,
retard or change the direction of the flow of water either in itself
or by catching or collecting debris carried by such water, or is placed
where the flow of the water might carry the same downstream to the
damage of life and property.
A drainage element in which stormwater flows with an open
surface. Open channels include, but shall not be limited to, natural
and man-made drainageways, swales, streams, ditches, canals, and pipes
not under pressure.
See definition of "common open space."
Open space owned by a public agency and maintained by it
for the use and enjoyment of the general public.
Points of water disposal from a stream, river, lake, tidewater,
or artificial drain.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
The use of impervious parking areas as temporary impoundments
with controlled release rates during rainstorms.
The maximum rate of flow of storm runoff at a given point
and time resulting from a specified storm event.
Any individual or group of individuals, partnership or corporation.
Surface such as soil or other areas not defined as impervious
which allows for the infiltration of water to the ground.
A culvert, closed conduit, or similar structure (including
appurtenances) that conveys stormwater or other fluids.
The development policy plan (master plan) and/or future land
use plan and/or official map or other such plans, or portions thereof,
as may be adopted, pursuant to statute, for the area of the Township
in which the subdivision or land development is located.
A complete and exact subdivision or land development plan,
prepared for official recording as required by statute, to define
property rights and proposed streets and other improvements. In all
cases where only one plan is required, it shall be a final plan.
A tentative subdivision or land development plan, in lesser
detail than a final plan, showing approximate proposed street and
lot layout as a basis for consideration prior to preparation of a
final plan.
An informal plan indicating the salient existing features
of a tract and its surroundings and the general layout of a proposed
subdivision or land development.
The committee duly appointed by the Board of Supervisors
of Lower Paxton Township to carry out the duties as described herein
and to make recommendations to the governing body relative to subdivision,
land development and other related matters.
The flood that may be expected from the most-severe combination
of critical meteorological and hydrologic conditions that are reasonably
possible in any area. The PMF is derived from the probable maximum
precipitation (PMP) as determined on the basis of data obtained from
the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Any discernible, confined, or discrete conveyance, including,
but not limited to: any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, or conduit from
which stormwater is or may be discharged, as defined in state regulations
at 25 Pa. Code § 92.1.
Any introduced gas, liquid or solid that makes a resource
unfit for a specific purpose.
The presence of matter or energy whose nature, location or
quantity produces undesired environmental effects.
Pre proposed development (as with present conditions or runoff).
Refer to "existing conditions."
The basic or predominant purpose for which a building or
land area is occupied or intended to be occupied as opposed to accessory
or incidental uses; usually classifiable as residential, commercial,
industrial or public in nature.
A legally established right-of-way, other than a public street,
which provides the primary pedestrian and vehicular access to one
or more lots and constructed to the design standards contained in
this chapter.
The flood that may be expected from the most-severe combination
of critical meteorological and hydrologic conditions that are reasonably
possible in any area. The PMF is derived from the probable maximum
precipitation (PMP) as determined on the basis of data obtained from
the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Persons who provide expert or professional advice, including,
but not limited to, architects, attorneys, certified public accountants,
engineers, geologists, land surveyors, landscape architects or planners.
The profile of the centerline of the finished surface of
the street, which shall be midway between the sidelines of the street.
The specific area of land where any regulated activity in
the Township is planned, conducted or maintained.
Includes:
A formal meeting held pursuant to public notice by the Board
of Supervisors intended to inform and/or obtain public comment, prior
to taking action in accordance with this chapter.
A forum held pursuant to notice under the Act of July 3,
1986 (P.L. 388, No. 84), known as the "Sunshine Act."
Notice published once not more than 60 days nor less than
seven days before passage in one newspaper circulating generally in
the Township.
A professional engineer licensed by the Pennsylvania Department
of State, and other persons licensed or otherwise qualified by law
to perform the work required by the Ordinance.
A rainfall-runoff relation used to estimate peak flow.
Any fee, leasehold or other estate or interest in, over and
under land, including structures, fixtures and other improvements
and interests by which by custom, usage or law pass with a conveyance
of land though not described in the contract of sale or instrument
of conveyance. Real estate includes parcels with or without upper
or lower boundaries and spaces that may be filled with air or water.
Development activities on land which has previously been
developed.
Actions or proposed actions, which impact upon proper management of stormwater runoff and which are governed by this chapter as specified in § 170-105C.
An activity involving earth disturbance subject to regulation
under 25 Pa. Code Chapter 92, Chapter 102, or the Clean Streams Law.
The 100-year base flood elevation as either indicated in
a Flood Insurance Study (FIS), as revised, for Lower Paxton Township,
Dauphin County, Pennsylvania, prepared by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency, Federal Insurance Administration, or, in the absence of a
Flood Insurance Study, the 100-year flood elevation computed using
acceptable hydrologic and hydraulic engineering principles without
respect to a computed floodway.
The percentage of the existing conditions peak rate of stormwater
runoff for a development site to which the future conditions peak
rate of runoff must be controlled to protect downstream areas.
Those subwatershed areas in which post-development flows
must be reduced to a certain percentage of predevelopment flows as
required to meet the plan requirements and the goals of Act 167.
A strip of land adjacent to a street intended to control
access to the street from an adjacent property.
An impoundment in which stormwater is stored and not released
during the storm event. Stored water may be released from the basin
at some time after the end of the storm.
The volume of runoff that is captured and not released directly
into the surface waters of this commonwealth during or after a storm
event.
The average interval in years over which an event of a given
magnitude can be expected to recur. For example, the twenty-five-year
return period rainfall or runoff event would be expected to recur
on the average once every 25 years, or have one out of 25 (4%) chance
of occurring in any given year.
See definition of "lot, reverse-frontage."
A public thoroughfare for vehicular traffic and/or pedestrian
traffic, whether designated as a street, highway, thoroughfare, parkway,
road, avenue, boulevard, lane, alley or however designated.
A vegetated area bordering perennial and intermittent streams
and wetlands, that serves as a protective filter to help protect streams
and wetlands from the impacts of adjacent land uses.
A vertical pipe or structure extending from the bottom of
a pond that is used to control the discharge rate from the pond for
a specified design storm.
Earth disturbance activities within the existing road cross
section, such as grading and repairing existing unpaved road surfaces,
cutting road banks, cleaning or clearing drainage ditches, and other
similar activities.
Temporary ponding and gradual release of stormwater falling
directly onto flat roof surfaces by incorporating controlled-flow
roof drains into building designs.
That part of precipitation which flows over the land.
The volume of runoff that is captured (retained) and not
released into surface waters of the commonwealth during or after a
storm event.
A sanitary sewage collection method serving more than one
lot within a subdivision or land development owned and operated by
a private entity in which sewage is carried from the site by a system
of pipes to a privately owned and operated centralized treatment and
disposal facility.
A sanitary sewage collection method owned and operated by
a public utility, municipal authority, or other public entity, in
which sewage is carried from the site by a system of pipes to a central
treatment and disposal plant.
Soil Conservation Service, United States Department of Agriculture.
Soils or other materials transported by surface water as
a product of erosion.
A barrier, dam, retention or detention basin located and
designed to retain rock, sand, gravel, silt, or other material transported
by water.
The placement, discharge, or any other introduction of sediment
into waters of the commonwealth occurring from the failure to properly
design, construct, implement or maintain control measures and control
facilities in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.
The process by which mineral or organic matter is accumulated
or deposited by wind, water or gravity. Once this matter is deposited
(or remains suspended in water), it is usually referred to as "sediment."
An area of excavated earth filled with loose stone or similar
material and into which surface water is directed for infiltration
into the ground.
A surface such as stone, rock or other materials which allows
some infiltration of water to the ground.
A conveyance or system of conveyances (including roads with
drainage systems, municipal streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters,
ditches, man-made channels, or storm drains) primarily used for collecting
and conveying stormwater runoff.
An underground sewage disposal system with a septic tank
and drain field used for the decomposition and disposal of domestic
wastes; also referred to as an "on-lot system."
A service way providing a secondary means of private access
to abutting property and not intended for general traffic circulation.
See definition of "building setback line."
Runoff that flows over the ground surface as a thin, even
layer, not concentrated in a channel.
A paved, surfaced or leveled area, paralleling and usually
separated from the street, used as a pedestrian walkway.
The length of roadway visible to the driver of a passenger
vehicle at any given point on the roadway when the view is unobstructed
by traffic or other objects.
The face of an embankment or cut section; any ground whose
surface makes an angle with the plane of the horizontal. Slopes are
usually expressed in a percentage based upon vertical difference in
feet per 100 feet of horizontal distance.
A method of runoff computation developed by the NRCS that
is based on relating soil type and land use/cover to a runoff parameter
called Curve Number (CN).
Chemical or structural treatment of a mass of soil to increase
or maintain its stability or otherwise to improve its engineering
properties.
The selected speed for which the horizontal and vertical
alignment, sight distances and other engineering elements of a roadway
are planned and designed.
The speed at which vehicles routinely travel over a portion
of a roadway in a free-flow condition. For purposes of this chapter,
the operating speed shall be considered to be the 85th percentile
of the distribution of observed speeds of vehicles traveling over
the portion of a roadway in question.
The speed limit that is specifically stated for a segment
of a roadway by way of regulatory signs placed along said segment
of roadway.
A depression in the embankment of a pond or basin, or other
overflow structure, that is used to pass peak discharges greater than
the maximum design storm controlled by the pond or basin.
As defined under state regulations — protection of
"designated" and "existing" uses (see 25 Pa. Code, Chapters 93 AND
96) — including:
Each stream segment in Pennsylvania has a "designated
use," such as "cold water fishery" or "potable water supply," which
is listed in Chapter 93. These uses must be protected and maintained,
under state regulations.
Existing uses" are those attained as of November
1975, regardless whether they have been designated in Chapter 93.
Earth disturbance activities must be designed to protect and maintain
existing uses and maintain the level of water quality necessary to
protect those uses in all streams, and to protect and maintain water
quality in special-protection streams.
Water quality involves the chemical, biological,
and physical characteristics of surface water bodies. After earth
disturbance activities are complete, these characteristics can be
impacted by addition of pollutants such as sediment, and changes in
habitat through increased flow volumes and/or rates as a result of
changes in land surface area from those activities. Therefore, permanent
discharges to surface waters must be managed to protect the stream
bank, streambed, and structural integrity of the waterway, to prevent
these impacts.
Protection and maintenance of water quality in
special protection streams pursuant to 25 Pa. Code, Chapter 93.
A reservoir routing procedure based on solution of the continuity
equation (inflow minus outflow equals the change in storage for a
give time interval) and based on outflow being a unique function of
storage volume.
The number of times that a given storm "event" occurs or
is exceeded on the average in a stated period of years. See "return
period."
A system of pipes or other conduits and related appurtenances
which collects and carries intercepted surface runoff, street water
or drainage, but excludes domestic sewage and industrial wastes.
The surface runoff generated by precipitation reaching the
ground surface.
Any structure, device, dam, channel, swale, pit, trench or
any other measure taken or method employed to control stormwater runoff.
The documentation of the design and analysis of proposed stormwater management controls, if any, to be used for a given development site, the contents of which are established in Article VI of this chapter.
Any storm drainage technique that retards or detains runoff,
such as detention or retention basin, parking lot storage, rooftop
storage, porous pavement, dry wells or any combination thereof.
A vegetated pond designed to drain completely after storing
runoff only for a given storm event and releasing it at a predetermined
rate; also known as a "dry pond."
A land use or activity that generates higher concentrations
of hydrocarbons, trace metals, or toxicants than are found in typical
stormwater runoff.
Any structure, natural or man-made, that, due to its condition,
design, or construction, conveys, stores, or otherwise affects stormwater
runoff. Typical stormwater management facilities include, but are
not limited to, detention and retention basins, open channels, storm
sewers, pipes and infiltration structures.
The planned control of runoff to allow water falling on a
given site to be absorbed or retained on site to the extent that after
development the peak rate of discharge leaving the site is not greater
than if the site had remained undeveloped; a plan showing all present
and proposed grades and facilities for stormwater management and best
management practices (BMPs).
The plan prepared by the applicant or his representative
indicating how stormwater runoff will be managed at the project site
in accordance with this chapter.
A watercourse with definite bed and banks, which confines
and conveys perennially or intermittently flowing water.
A bridge, culvert, or other structure in excess of 100 feet
in length upstream to downstream which encloses a regulated water
of this commonwealth.
Includes street, avenue, boulevard, road, highway, freeway,
parkway, lane, alley, viaduct and any other ways used or intended
to be used by vehicular traffic or pedestrians, whether public or
private.
The officially established grade of the street upon which
a lot fronts or in its absence the established grade of the other
streets upon which the lot abuts, at the midpoint of the frontage
of the lot thereon. If there is no officially established grade, the
existing grade of the street at such midpoint shall be taken as the
street grade.
The shortest distance between the lines delineating the cartway
for a street.
Any man-made object having an ascertainable stationary location
on or in land or water, whether or not affixed to the land.
The owner or authorized agent of the owner of a lot, tract
or parcel of land to be subdivided for transfer, sale or development
under the terms of this chapter.
The division or redivision of a lot, tract or parcel of land
by any means into two or more lots, tracts, parcels or other divisions
of land, including changes in existing lot lines, for the purpose,
whether immediate or future, of lease, partition by the court for
distribution to heirs or devisees, transfer of ownership or building
or lot development; provided, however, that the subdivision by lease
of land for agricultural purposes into parcels of more than 10 acres,
not involving any new street or easement of access or any residential
dwelling, shall be exempted.
Where, in the judgment of the Township Engineer, at least
90% (based on the cost of the required improvements for which financial
security was posted pursuant to the requirements of this chapter)
of those improvements required as a condition for final approval have
been completed in accordance with the approval plan, so that the project
will be able to be used, occupied or operated for its intended use.
The smallest drainage unit of a watershed for which stormwater
management criteria has been established in the stormwater management
plan.
A plan showing all present and proposed grades and facilities
for stormwater drainage.
Any and all perennial and intermittent rivers, streams, creeks,
rivulets, impoundments, ditches, watercourses, storm sewers, lakes,
reservoirs, dammed water, wetlands, ponds, springs, natural seeps
and estuaries, and all other bodies or channels of conveyance of surface
water, or parts thereof, whether natural or artificial, within or
on the boundaries of the commonwealth.
An individual licensed and registered under the laws of this
commonwealth to engage in the practice of land surveying. A professional
land surveyor may perform engineering land surveys but may not practice
any other branch of engineering.
A low-lying stretch of land which gathers or carries surface
water runoff.
See "forest management."
The time for surface runoff to travel from the hydraulically
most-distant point of the watershed to a point of interest within
the watershed. This time is the combined total of overland flow time
and flow time in pipes or channels, if any.
A map showing the elevations of the ground by contours or
elevations.
The configuration of a surface area showing relative elevations.
Surface soils and subsurface soils which presumably are fertile
soils and soil material, ordinarily rich in organic matter or humus
debris. Top soil is usually found in the uppermost soil layer called
the "A" horizon.
The Township of Lower Paxton, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania,
Board of Supervisors, its agents or authorized representatives.
Any lot, tract or parcel of land which has not been graded
or in any other manner prepared for the construction of a building
or other improvements and on which no development or building has
occurred.
A part of the property, structure or building designed or
intended for any type of independent use, which has direct exit to
a public street or way or to an easement or right-of-way leading to
a public street or way, and includes a proportionate undivided interest
in common elements, which are assigned to the property, structure
or building.
The United States Department of Agriculture.
Any agency which under public franchise or ownership,
or under certificate of convenience and necessity, provides the public
with electricity, gas, heat, steam, communication, rail transportation,
water, sewage collection or other similar service; or
A closely regulated private enterprise with a
franchise for providing a public service.
Such cover shall consist of trees, shrubs, flowers, grass
or similar natural cover.
An area adjacent to a roadway and located between the curb
and sidewalk which is intended to be maintained in grass cover and
used as a planting space for street trees.
The addition of pollutants to water in concentrations or
in sufficient quantities to result in measurable degradation of water
quality.
The upper surface of groundwater or that level below which
the soil is seasonally saturated with water.
Any channel of conveyance of surface water having defined
bed and banks, whether natural or artificial, with perennial or intermittent
flow.
Rivers, streams, creeks, rivulets, impoundments, ditches,
watercourses, storm sewers, lakes, dammed water, wetlands, ponds,
springs and other bodies or channels of conveyance of surface and
undergroundwater, or parts thereof, whether natural or artificial,
within or on the boundaries of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
A region or area that contributes surface water to a defined
point.
Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or
groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and
that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, including
swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas. (The term includes but is
not limited to wetland areas listed in the State Water Plan, the United
States Forest Service Wetlands Inventory of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania
Coastal Zone Management Plan and a wetland area designated by a river
basin commission. This definition is used by the United States Environmental
Protection Agency and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.)