The purpose of this chapter 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 based on the impact disturbance
of steep slopes can have on water quality and quantity, and the environmental
integrity of landscapes.
This chapter shall be applicable to new development or land
disturbance on a steep slope within the Township of Kingwood.
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the
meanings indicated:
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.
REDEVELOPMENT
The construction of structures or improvements on areas which
previously contained structures or other improvements.
STEEP SLOPES
Any slope equal to or greater than 20% as measured over any
minimum run of 10 feet. Steep slopes are determined based on contour
intervals of two feet or less.
The percent of slope (rise in feet per horizontal distance) shall be established by measurement of distance perpendicular to the contour of the slope. The percent of slope shall be calculated for each two-foot contour interval. For example, any location on the site where there is a one-foot rise over a ten-foot horizontal run constitutes a ten-percent slope; a one-and-one-half-foot rise over a ten-foot horizontal run constitutes a fifteen-percent slope; a two-foot rise over a ten-foot horizontal run constitutes a twenty-percent slope. Applicants shall submit a steep slope analysis to the board having jurisdiction showing slope classes: 0% to 14.99%; 15% to 20%; and greater than 20%, all of which shall be delineated on a plat conforming to the requirements of §§
115-9A and
115-9B(1)(a) through
(d),
(e),
(g),
(h),
(l),
(n) and
(r).