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.