3-D SIGN
An effect used in a sign that provides the three dimensions
of width, length and depth.
[Added 1-31-2018]
ACCESS
A way or means of approach to provide physical entrance to
a property.
ACCESSORY APARTMENT
See: Apartment, Accessory to a Residence, or Apartment, Attached
to a Business, or Apartment in a Mixed Use Building.
ACCESSORY BUILDING, STRUCTURE, OR USE ON THE SAME PROPERTY WITH
THE PRINCIPAL USE
A building, structure, or use on the same lot with, attached
to or detached from, and of a nature customarily incidental and subordinate
to, a principal building, structure, or use. In the 100-yr floodplain,
an accessory structure shall be used solely for parking of vehicles
and limited storage.
[Amended 3-25-2008; 5-4-2010; 12-14-2011; 4-16-2012; 12-21-2014 by Ord. No. 47-14]
ADAPTIVE RE-USE
A technique for leaving the outer shell of an old building
intact and converting its interior to a more modern and profitable
use.
ADDITION
A newly constructed area that increases the size of a structure.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCE
A modification of the setback requirements of this Zoning
Ordinance granted by the Administrative Variance Officer in accordance
with Section 11-3.
[Amended 6-10-2008]
ADMINISTRATIVE VARIANCE OFFICER
The Director of the Department of Planning & Zoning or
another designee authorized by the Board of County Commissioners to
grant administrative variances in accordance with Section 11-3 of
this Zoning Ordinance.
[Amended 6-10-2008]
AFFIX
Stick, attach or fasten an object to something else.
[Added 1-31-2018]
AFFORDABLE HOUSING AGENCY
An agency organized for the purpose of developing residential
housing for rental or ownership by residents having low and moderate
incomes. These are defined as those below 80 percent of the median
family income for the County. Further, to qualify as an Affordable
Housing Agency, the agency must be established as a not-for-profit
organization and meet Internal Revenue Service 5.01.C.3 criteria.
AFFORESTATION
The creation of a biological community dominated by trees
and other woody plants in an area that is not presently in forest
cover
A-FRAME SIGN
A portable sign which is ordinarily in the shape of an "A"
or some variation thereof, which is readily movable and is not permanently
attached to the ground or any structure. As distinguished from "T-frame
sign."
[Added 1-31-2018]
AGE-QUALIFIED RESIDENT
An occupant of a dwelling unit in an Age-Restricted Housing
Community who is fifty five (55) years of age or older.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
AGE-RESTRICTED HOUSING COMMUNITY
A residential subdivision, townhouse, or multi-family development
consisting of 20 or more residential units intended and operated for
occupancy by at least one person fifty five (55) years of age or older
per dwelling unit in at least 80% of the total dwelling units.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
AGE-RESTRICTED HOUSING COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION
Any Maryland non-stock corporation or unincorporated residential
association, established in accordance with the Maryland Homeowners
Association Act or the Maryland Condominium Act to administer the
covenants in an Age-Restricted Housing Community.
AGREEMENT TO SUBMIT AN ELEVATION CERTIFICATE
A form on which the applicant for a permit to construct a
building or structure, to construct certain horizontal additions,
to place or replace a manufactured home, to substantially improve
a building, structure, or manufactured home, agrees to have an Elevation
Certificate prepared by a licensed professional engineer or licensed
professional surveyor, as specified by the Floodplain Administrator,
and to submit the certificate:
[Amended 12-14-2011]
(1)
Upon placement of the lowest floor and prior to further vertical
construction; and
(2)
Prior to the final inspection and issuance of the Certificate
of Occupancy.
AGRICULTURAL/SEAFOOD/LIVESTOCK PROCESSING PLANT
A facility used for the handling, unloading, storing, shucking,
freezing, preparing, changing into different market forms, manufacturing,
preserving, packing or labeling of agricultural commodities or fish,
shellfish and related products.
AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITY
Farming activities including plowing, tillage, cropping,
installation of best management practices, seeding, cultivating, and
harvesting for production of food and fiber products (except commercial
logging and timber harvesting operations), the grazing and raising
of livestock, aquaculture, sod production, orchards, nursery, and
other products cultivated as part of a recognized commercial enterprise.
AGRICULTURAL EASEMENT
A non-possessory interest in land which restricts the conversion
of use of the land, preventing non-agricultural uses.
AGRICULTURAL MACHINERY, SERVICE AND/OR SUPPLIES
A facility designed for the maintenance and sale of goods
related to farm machinery including tractors, plows, backhoes, balers,
harrows, harvesters, manure spreaders, seeders, and similar machinery
used directly in agricultural production.
AGRICULTURAL PRESERVATION DISTRICT
An area of prime agricultural or forestry land voluntarily
placed in the Calvert County or Maryland State Agricultural Land Preservation
Program, with approval of the Calvert County Agricultural Preservation
Advisory Board and/or the Board of County Commissioners.
AGRICULTURE
The use of land for agricultural purposes, including farming,
dairying, pasturing, cultivating, horticulture, floriculture, fish
culture, animal and poultry husbandry, and the incidental processing
of products raised on the premises, but excluding the raising or keeping
of such animals as rats, mice, monkeys, snakes and the like for use
in display or in medical or other tests or experiments.
AGRITOURISM
The act of visiting working farms to engage in outdoor recreation,
participate in educational experiences, or enjoy entertainment and
hospitality services.
AGRITOURISM ENTERPRISE
Activities conducted on a working farm and offered to the
public or to invited groups for the purpose of recreation, education,
or active involvement in a farm operation. Such activities include
farm tours, hayrides, corn mazes, classes, and picnic facilities.
AGRITOURISM USE
A commercial enterprise located on a working farm, and related
to the activities on that farm, intended to attract tourists and provide
supplemental income for the farm owner. Agritourism uses include,
but are not limited to: fishing, hunting, wildlife study, horseback
riding, wine tasting, harvest festivals, barn dances, farm stays,
u-pick operations, or roadside stands.
AIR-ACTIVATED SIGN
A sign, all or any part of, which is designed to be moved
by action of forced air so as to make the sign appear to be animated
or otherwise have motion. As distinguished from "balloon sign."
[Added 1-31-2018]
AIRPORT OR LANDING FIELD
Any location that is used for the landing or taking off of
aircraft and which may or may not have facilities for the shelter,
supply or care of aircraft.
ALLEY
A public or private right-of-way that connects two or more
streets and is intended to provide access to the rear or side of a
building or lot. It is intended for local traffic only.
ALL-TERRAIN VEHICLE
As defined by Maryland Annotated Code, Transportation Article,
Section 11-103.3, as amended from time to time.
[Added 6-12-2019 by Ord. No. 17-19]
ALTERATION OF A WATERCOURSE
For the purpose of the floodplain regulations, alteration
of a watercourse includes, but is not limited to widening, deepening
or relocating the channel, including excavation or filling of the
channel. Alteration of a watercourse does not include construction
of a road, bridge, culvert, dam, or in-stream pond unless the channel
is proposed to be realigned or relocated as part of such construction.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
ANADROMOUS FISH
Fish that travel upstream (from their primary habitat in
the ocean) to freshwaters in order to spawn.
ANADROMOUS FISH PROPAGATION WATERS
Those streams that are tributary to the Chesapeake Bay where
spawning of anadromous species of fish (e.g., rockfish, yellow perch,
white perch, shad, and river herring) occurs or has occurred. The
streams are designated by the Department of Natural Resources. For
purposes of this Regulation "streams" refers to designated anadromous
fish propagation waters within the Critical Area.
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY
The care and/or breeding of livestock on a farm and raised
for sale or profit, including but not limited to the following animals:
horses, cattle, sheep, swine, goats, bison, llamas, alpacas, rabbits,
and poultry.
ANIMALS, DANGEROUS OR WILD
Animals that, by their very nature, are wild and potentially
dangerous and, as such, do not adjust well to a captive environment,
including but not limited to those considered by the State of Maryland
to be wild or dangerous, such as: (i) fox, skunk, raccoon, or bear;
(ii) Alligator or crocodile; (iii) Member of the cat family other
than the domestic cat; or (iv) Any other mammalian wildlife species,
or hybrids, for which there is no U.S.D.A. certified vaccine against
rabies. (iv) Any poisonous snakes specifically in the family groups
of Hydrophidae, Elapidae, Viperidae, or Crotolidae. Furthermore, reptiles
greater than 6 feet in length shall be considered dangerous.
ANTENNA
Any transmitting or receiving device mounted on a tower,
building or structure and used in communications that radiate or capture
electromagnetic waves, digital signals, analog signals, radio frequencies,
wireless telecommunications signals or other communication signals.
This definition includes omnidirectional (whip) antennas and panel
antennas, and camouflaged or concealed antennas that are integrated
into the architectural features of a building, such as church steeples.
This definition does not include Satellite Dish Antennas (defined
elsewhere).
ANTIQUES SALES
An establishment engaged in the selling of works of art,
furniture or other artifacts of an earlier period. All sales and storage
occur inside a building.
APARTMENT IN A MIXED USE BUILDING
A dwelling unit which functions as a complete, independent
living facility with provisions for cooking, eating, sanitation, and
sleeping, and which is located in a Mixed Use Building.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
APARTMENT, ACCESSORY TO A RESIDENCE
A second dwelling unit either within or added to a single-family
detached dwelling, or in a separate accessory structure on the same
lot as the principal dwelling, that functions as a complete, independent
living facility with provisions for cooking, eating, sanitation, and
sleeping.
[Amended 8-28-2007; 9-22-2009]
APARTMENT, ATTACHED TO A BUSINESS
A dwelling unit structurally attached to a business that
functions as a complete, independent living facility with provisions
for cooking, eating, sanitation, and sleeping.
[Amended 8-28-2007; 3-25-2008]
APPLICANT
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, a person who:
(a) is applying for: (i) subdivision approval, (ii) a grading or sediment
control permit, or (iii) project plan approval if the applicant is
a State or Local Agency; or (b) has received approval of a Forest
Stand Delineation or Forest Conservation Plan.
APPROVED FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
A document: (a) approved by DNR's forester for Calvert County;
and (b) which operates as a protective agreement for forest conservation
as described in Natural Resources Article, § 5-1607(e) and
(f), Annotated Code of Maryland.
AQUACULTURE, FRESHWATER AND LAND-BASED
The culture of aquatic species under natural or artificial
conditions in freshwater ponds, tanks, raceways or other freshwater
impoundments. This definition excludes commercial seafood processing,
packing and storage plants. When aquaculture is clearly accessory
to other land uses such as raising fish on the same site in conjunction
with recreational uses, or for personal, noncommercial purposes, it
shall be subject to zoning ordinance requirements for the principal
use.
AQUACULTURE, MARINE/ESTUARINE
The culture of salt-tolerant aquatic species under natural
or artificial conditions in tidal waters and coastal ponds including,
but not limited to: fish farming utilizing pens, tanks or impoundments;
the culture of shellfish on the bay floor or stream or river beds,
in cages, or suspended from structures in the water, and the culturing
of aquatic plants. This definition excludes commercial seafood processing,
packing and storage plants. When aquaculture is clearly accessory
to other land uses such as raising fish on the same site in conjunction
with recreational uses, or for personal, noncommercial purposes, it
shall be subject to zoning ordinance requirements for the principal
use.
ARCADE
An establishment where more than four coin-operated amusement
machines are available to the public.
ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE
A site or object that has been identified by applicable County,
State or Federal agencies as having significance for understanding
our heritage.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING
A designated Zone AO on the Flood Insurance Rate Map with
a 1-percent annual chance or greater of flooding to an average depth
of one to three feet where a clearly defined channel does not exist,
where the path of flooding is unpredictable, and where velocity flow
may be evident; such flooding is characterized by ponding or sheet
flow.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
ART GALLERY
Premises used principally for the sale, display and exhibition
of arts and craft products and may include accessory production or
instruction in the production of arts and crafts using paint, clay,
fabric or other media.
ARTERIAL ROAD
A road with controlled access, channelized intersections,
restricted parking, and which collects and distributes traffic to
and from collector roads.
AS-BUILT
Set of plans submitted upon completion of a project. They
reflect all changes made in the specifications and working drawings
during the construction process, and show the exact dimensions, geometry,
and location of all elements of the work completed.
[Added 6-9-2020 by Ord. No. 14-20]
ASPHALT PLANT
An establishment in which a homogeneous product commonly
referred to as asphalt, and intended mainly for the coating of roads,
is manufactured from bituminous asphalt and other aggregate material.
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY
A group home with more than 16 residents that provides housing
and supportive services, including health-related services, in a home-like
environment.
ATTACHED
(1)
Physically joined together by a wall or breezeway;
(2)
Sharing a wall with another building;
AUCTION BUILDING
A place where auctions are held. Merchandise to be auctioned
may be stored and displayed prior to the auction. This definition
does not include Livestock Auction Barns.
AUTOMOBILE
A self-propelled free-moving vehicle, with four or more wheels,
primarily for conveyance of a driver and passengers on a street or
roadway. See Motor Vehicle.
AUTOMOBILE FILLING STATION
A building or lot having pumps and storage tanks at which
automotive fuels, oils, and/or accessories are dispensed, sold or
offered for sale at retail.
AUTOMOBILE FILLING STATION WITH CONVENIENCE STORE AND/OR EATING
ESTABLISHMENT
An Automobile Filling Station that includes a building that
is used for retail sales of packaged or prepared food, beverages,
lottery tickets, tobacco products, and limited stock of groceries
or similar products for the traveling public or neighborhood residents.
May include automotive fuel dispensing services and an eating establishment
without a drive-up facility.
AUTOMOBILE PARKING LOT/GARAGE AS A PRINCIPAL USE
A public or private area other than a street or public right-of-way,
used for the temporary storage (parking) of operable passenger automobiles
and commercial vehicles, and available either for compensation, or
free.
AUTOMOBILE PARTS DISMANTLING AND/OR STORAGE
Any premises used for the dismantling or wrecking of motor
vehicles and trailers including premises used in the storing, keeping,
buying, selling, or dealing in dismantled wrecked, inoperative or
disabled vehicles or integral parts of component materials thereof,
and the storage, sale or dumping of dismantled, partially dismantled
or wrecked inoperative vehicles and trailers, or parts thereof. Automobile
dismantling shall not include the incidental storage of inoperative
or disabled vehicles in connection with the legal operation of an
automobile repair garage or automobile body and fender repair shop
while waiting for repair.
AWNING
A roof-like cover that is temporary in nature and that projects
from the wall of a building for the purpose of shielding a doorway
or window from the elements.
AWNING SIGN
A sign painted on, printed on or attached flat against the
surface of an awning which is a shelter projecting from and supported
by the exterior wall of a building constructed of nonrigid materials
on a supporting framework. See also definition of "canopy sign."
[Amended 9-22-2009; 1-31-2018]
BALLOON SIGN
A sign that is an air-inflated object, which may be of various
shapes, made of flexible fabric, resting on the ground or a structure,
and equipped with a portable blower motor that provides a constant
flow of air into the device. Balloon signs are restrained, attached
or held in place by a cord, rope, cable or similar method. As distinguished
from "air-activated sign."
[Added 1-31-2018]
BANNER SIGN
Canvas, plastic, fabric or similar lightweight, nonrigid
material that can be mounted to a structure with cord, rope, cable
or a similar method. If such sign is supported by stakes in the ground,
it shall be considered a yard sign.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 1-31-2018]
BASE BUILDING
The building to which an addition is being added. This term
is used in provisions relating to additions in the 100-yr floodplain.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
BASE FLOOD
The flood having a one-percent chance of being equaled or
exceeded in any given year; the base flood also is referred to as
the 1-percent annual chance (100-year) flood.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
BASE FLOOD ELEVATION
The water surface elevation of the base flood in relation
to the datum specified on the community's Flood Insurance Rate Map.
In areas of shallow flooding, the base flood elevation is the highest
adjacent natural grade elevation plus the depth number specified in
feet on the Flood Insurance Rate Map, or at least four (4) feet if
the depth number is not specified.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
BASEMENT
Any area of the building having its floor subgrade (below
ground level) on all sides.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
BED & BREAKFAST FACILITY
A residence where paying guests are lodged overnight and
breakfast is the only meal served to overnight guests.
BEDROOM
A private room planned and intended for sleeping, separable
from other rooms.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPs)
Conservation practices or systems of practices and management
measures that control soil loss and reduce water quality degradation
caused by nutrients, animal waste, toxics, and sediment. Agricultural
BMPs include, but are not limited to, strip cropping, terracing, contour
stripping, grass waterways, animal waste structures, ponds, minimal
tillage, grass and naturally vegetated filter strips, and proper nutrient
application measures.
BILLBOARD
A type of nonconforming sign that exceeds allowed sign area
and/or height provisions, which existed prior to February 27, 1992
and has been inventoried by Calvert County.
[Added 1-31-2018]
BINGO HALL
See: Recreation Facility, Indoor Commercial: Bingo Hall
BIO-RETENTION AREAS
(1)
Landscape features adapted to treat stormwater runoff on the
development site. They are commonly located in parking lot islands
or within small pockets in residential land uses. Surface runoff is
directed into shallow, landscaped depressions that contain a combination
of materials such as mulch, prepared soil, gravel, and plants that
act as a surface water filter. These depressions are designed to incorporate
and mimic many of the pollutant-removal mechanisms in a forested ecosystem.
(2)
A water quality practice that utilizes landscaping and soils
to treat urban stormwater runoff by collecting it in shallow depressions
before filtering through a fabricated planting soil media.
BLADE SIGN
A temporary sign that is constructed of cloth, canvas, plastic
fabric or similar lightweight, nonrigid material and that is supported
by a single, rigid or semirigid vertical member mounted into the ground
or on a portable structure.
[Added 1-31-2018]
BOARDER
A non-transient individual other than a member of the family
occupying the dwelling unit or a part thereof who, for a consideration,
is furnished sleeping accommodations and may be furnished meals or
other services as part of the consideration.
BOARDING HOUSE
A dwelling or part thereof, in which the owner or operator
provides lodging and meals to more than three Lodgers.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 5-22-2013]
BOAT DEALERSHIP
The use of any building, land area or other premise for the
sale, exchange, rental, or lease with option to purchase, of more
than two new or used watercraft per year.
BOATHOUSE
A structure with a roof or cover, or similar device placed
over open water to protect a boat or other vessel.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
BOAT LAUNCH RAMP
An inclined surface or roadway connecting the shore to an
adjacent waterway.
BOAT SERVICE AND/OR REPAIR
A facility designed for the maintenance of watercraft and
watercraft-related accessories including engines, hulls, masts, trailers,
and sails.
BOATEL
A combination of a motel and marina which is accessible to
boats as well as automobiles and may include boat sales and servicing
facilities, has overnight accommodation for transients and may have
eating and drinking facilities.
BOATHOUSE
A building in which boats are kept.
BONA FIDE INTRAFAMILY TRANSFER
A transfer to a member of the owner's immediate family of
a portion of the owner's property for the purpose of establishing
a residence for that family member.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
BREAKWATER
An offshore structure designed to protect any landform or
water, area behind them from direct assault of waves.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
BREEZEWAY
A roofed, open-sided passageway connecting two structures.
BUFFER MANAGEMENT PLAN
A type of Habitat Protection Plan consisting of a narrative
and/or graphic description of the Critical Area Buffer that is necessary
when an applicant proposes a development activity that will affect
a portion of the Critical Area Buffer, alter Buffer vegetation, or
when the Buffer or a portion of the Buffer is required to be established
in vegetation. The plan should be designed to minimize negative impacts
to the Buffer or extended Buffer, provide appropriate mitigation requirements
for any anticipated impacts, and improve the habitat value for wildlife
whenever possible. A Buffer Management Plan includes a Major Buffer
Management Plan, a Minor Buffer Management Plan, and a Simplified
Buffer Management Plan.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
BUILDABLE AREA
The area of a lot remaining after the minimum yard, sensitive
area, and open space requirements of the Zoning Ordinance have been
met.
BUILDABLE LOT
A lot approved by the Health Department and Planning Commission
that meets the size, density, dimensions and other requirements of
this Ordinance, and has, in addition to the required legal right-of-way,
a completed road constructed to standards established in the Calvert
County Road Ordinance.
[Amended 8-28-2007]
BUILDABLE RESIDUE
The portion of a buildable lot remaining as a result of the
creation of one or more buildable lots by way of a subdivision plat
approved by the Planning Commission and recorded among the land records
of Calvert County, which meets Health Department requirements and
meets the size, dimension, and other requirements of this Ordinance.
[Amended 12-9-2006]
BUILDING
A structure, not including a tent or trailer, having a roof,
and supported by permanent columns or walls on the ground and used
for shelter or enclosure of persons, animals or property of any kind.
BUILDING CODE(S)
The effective Maryland Building Performance Standards (COMAR
05.12.07), including the building code, residential code, and existing
building code.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
BUILDING COVERAGE
The horizontal area measured within the outside of the exterior
walls of the ground floor of all principal and accessory buildings
on a lot.
BUILDING FACADE
The principal face or front elevation of a building.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
BUILDING FOOTPRINT
That portion of the ground covered by a building or structure
at the surface level, measured on a horizontal plane.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
BUILDING HEIGHT
The maximum vertical distance of a building or structure
as measured from the average elevation of the finished grade at the
front of the building facing the street to the highest point of the
roof.
BUILDING PERMIT
Written permission issued by the Division of Inspections
and Permits for the construction of a new structure or repair, alteration
or addition to an existing structure.
BUILDING RESTRICTION LINE
A line established by this Ordinance beyond which the foundation
wall and/or porch, vestibule, deck, retaining wall, or other portion
of a building or structure shall not project or extend. Stoops, entryways
or roof overhangs (which do not contain living space), chimneys, sidewalks,
heating and air conditioning units, and patios that are not elevated
above ground level are excluded from building restriction line requirements.
BUILDING SIGNS
Signs mounted directly on a building, or attached to the
façade, roof or other elements of a building. Such signs shall
include awning signs, canopy signs, wall signs and projecting signs.
[Added 1-31-2018]
BUILD-TO LINE
A Building Restriction Line established a specific distance
from a right-of-way to a line along which the front of a building
must be constructed.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
BULKHEAD
A vertical structure composed of wood, stone, concrete, plastic,
or other similar material designed to retain land or to protect land
from wave damage.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
BUS LOT OR GARAGE
Location where more than one commuter, school or charter
bus is parked or garaged.
BUS SHELTER
A small, roofed structure, having from one to three walls,
located near a street, and designed primarily for the protection and
convenience of bus passengers.
CALIPER OF A TREE
As defined in COMAR 08.19.03.01 if different from, the diameter
measured at two inches above the root collar.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
CAMPGROUND AND/OR RECREATIONAL VEHICLE CAMP, NON-FARM
A lot, parcel or tract of land, together with the open space
and sanitary facilities used or designed to accommodate two or more
recreational vehicles, tents, or similar temporary accommodations,
including all buildings, structures and appurtenances used or intended
as part of such recreational vehicle camp, whether or not a charge
is made for use of the camp and/or its facilities. (Automobile or
manufactured home sales lots, on which unoccupied vehicles are parked
for inspection and sale, are not included in this definition.)
CAMPGROUND, FARM
An area of a farmland where tent campsites are rented or
leased or held out for rent or lease for the use of camping parties.
CANOPY SIGN
A sign attached to the soffit or fascia of a canopy of a
covered entrance or walkway, which is a permanent structure made of
cloth, metal or other material attached or unattached to a building
for the purpose of providing shelter to patrons or automobiles, or
as a decorative feature on a building wall. A canopy is not a completely
enclosed structure but typically is supported by features other than
the building façade (e.g., structural legs, building extensions,
etc.). As distinguished from "awning sign."
[Added 1-31-2018]
CANOPY TREE
A tree that, when mature, reaches a height of at least 35
feet.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
CAR WASH
Mechanical or self-service facilities for the washing and/or
waxing of motor vehicles.
CARNIVAL, FAIR OR CIRCUS, TEMPORARY
A traveling or short-term enterprise which entertains the
public by the provision of performances such as feats of skill or
daring by humans or animals, and/or amusement rides, exhibitions,
or games, and/or food and beverage stands. Amusement ride means a
mechanical device that carries passengers along, under, around, through
or over a fixed course, or within a limited area, for the amusement
of the passengers, and includes but is not limited to a merry-go-round
or ferris wheel.
CEMETERY OR MEMORIAL GARDEN
A place used for the permanent interment of dead human or
animal bodies or the cremated remains thereof. It may be either a
burial park for earth interments, a mausoleum for vault or crypt interments,
a columbarium for cinerary interments, or a combination of two or
more.
CENTER, FITNESS
See: Recreation Facility, Indoor Commercial: Fitness Center
CHAMPION TREE
The largest tree of its species within the United States,
the State, county, or municipality.
CHIMNEY
A structure containing one or more flues for drawing off
emissions from stationary sources of combustion.
CLEARCUTTING
The removal of an entire stand of trees in one cutting with
tree reproduction obtained by natural seeding from adjacent stands
or from trees that were cut, from advanced regeneration or stump sprouts,
or from planting of seeds or seedlings by man.
CLEARING
The process of cutting or removing trees, ground cover, and/or
stumps, with or without removal of the associated roots,
CLIFF
A high steep face of 10 feet or higher from the toe of the
slope with a slope in excess of 50 percent either vegetated or non-vegetated
adjacent to the Chesapeake Bay, Patuxent River, and their tidal tributaries
within Calvert County.
CLUB
A group of people organized for a common purpose to pursue
common goals, interests or activities and usually characterized by
certain membership qualifications, payment of fees and dues, regular
meetings, and a constitution and by-laws.
CLUSTER SUBDIVISION
A form of development for single-family residential dwellings
that permits a reduction in lot area requirements, provided there
is no increase in the number of lots permitted under a conventional
subdivision and the resultant land area is devoted to open space.
COASTAL A ZONE
An area within a special flood hazard area, landward of a
coastal high hazard area (V Zone) or landward of a shoreline without
a mapped coastal high hazard area, in which the principal source(s)
of flooding are astronomical tides and storm surges, and in which,
during base flood conditions, the potential exists for breaking waves
with heights greater than or equal to 1.5 feet. The inland limit of
the Coastal A Zone may be delineated on FIRMs as the "Limit of Moderate
Wave Action."
[Amended 12-14-2011]
COASTAL HIGH HAZARD AREA
An area of special flood hazard extending from offshore to
the inland limit of a primary frontal dune along an open coast and
any other area subject to high velocity wave action from storms. Coastal
high hazard areas also are referred to as "V Zones" and are designated
on FIRMs as zones VE or V1-30.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
COLLECTOR ROAD
A road which collects and distributes traffic to and from
other roads with access as a secondary function.
COLLEGE OR UNIVERSITY
An institutional facility for tertiary or higher levels of
education. Includes buildings, structures, or facilities that by design
and construction are primarily intended for the education of students
including accessory associated uses, including, without limitation,
dormitories, office buildings, athletic fields, etc.
[Amended 5-22-2013]
CO-LOCATION
Placing more than one antenna on one physical structure (tower
or building) at one location.
COLONIAL NESTING WATER BIRDS
Herons, egrets, terns, and glossy ibis. For purposes of nesting,
these birds colonize in relatively few areas, at which time, the regional
populations of these species are highly susceptible to local disturbances.
COMMERCIAL FUEL STORAGE BUSINESS
A facility designed for bulk fuel storage for resale. Fuels
include but are not limited to liquid natural gas, propane, fuel oils,
alcohol fuels, gasoline, and diesel. The sale and/or rental of tanks
may be an accessory use.
COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE, RETAIL
A structure or building made with translucent or light transparent
walls conducive to plant growth, in which plants, vegetables, and
flowers are grown for retail sale, and where non-plant items may be
sold on a limited basis.
[Amended 4-11-2013]
COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE, WHOLESALE
A structure or building made with translucent (light transparent)
walls conducive to plant growth, in which plants, vegetables, and
flowers are grown for wholesale purposes only.
COMMERCIAL KENNEL WITH OUTDOOR FACILITIES
An establishment in which household pets are kept, boarded,
groomed or bred for a fee where outdoor facilities such as runs, pens,
and walking areas are provided.
[Amended 9-21-2010]
COMMERCIAL KITCHEN, FARM
A food preparation facility not associated with an eating
establishment used for the preparation of foods for sale for human
consumption located on a farm. May be attached to a farm stand.
COMMERCIAL OR NON-PROFIT MEETING HALL, BANQUET HALL
Any structure maintained, in whole or in part, for public
rental for the purpose of private party events, whether family, group,
or corporate in nature, where access by the general public is restricted,
and with or without the sale, serving or consumption of alcoholic
beverages and food.
COMMERCIAL PIER
A pier used for commercial purposes such as chartering fishing
boats, selling gas, etc.
COMMERCIAL RECYCLING FACILITY
An establishment that accepts, stores and processes reusable
materials from commercial operations including, but not limited to,
glass, plastics and synthetic materials, paper products (such as newspapers,
stationery, scrap paper, computer paper and corrugated cardboard),
rubber, batteries, ferrous and nonferrous metals, concrete, asphalt,
wood and building materials, and tree wastes, but not including yard
waste or mixed municipal solid waste. Processing includes, but is
not limited to, bailing, briquetting, crushing, compacting, grinding,
shredding, sawing, shearing and sorting of recyclable materials and
the heat reduction of such materials but does not include incineration
for any purpose.
COMMERCIAL TIMBER HARVESTING
A commercial operation that alters the existing composition
or profile, or both, of a forest, leaving the root mass intact, including
all commercial cutting operations done by companies and private individuals
for the sale of forest products.
COMMERCIAL TRADE OR BUSINESS SCHOOL
A building or land where instruction is given to pupils in
professional trades or business and operated as a commercial enterprise
as distinguished from schools endowed and/or supported by taxation.
Includes schools for general licensure such as drivers, cosmetology,
real estate, commercial driver, and other licenses.
COMMISSION
The Calvert County Planning Commission.
COMMON ACCESS DRIVE
An access area, measuring between 50 feet 75 feet wide by
between 50 feet and 75 feet long, commonly owned by adjoining lot
owners created to provide access to lots.
COMMON AREA
An area of land within a residential community that is reserved
and designated for the use of the residents of the community.
COMMUNICATIONS TOWER, COMMERCIAL OR GOVERNMENTAL
Any structure that is designed and constructed primarily
for the purpose of supporting one or more antennas for telephone,
radio and similar commercial and/or public communications purposes,
including self-supporting lattice towers, guyed towers, monopole towers,
or camouflaged towers. The term includes radio and television transmission
towers, microwave towers, common carrier towers, cellular telephone
towers and the like. This definition includes, but is not limited
to, the following specific types of towers: a. Camouflaged Tower.
Man-made trees, flagpoles, clock towers, bell towers, light poles
and similar alternative-design towers that camouflage or conceal the
presence of antennas or the tower itself. b. Guyed Tower. A monopole
or lattice tower that is supported by cables. c. Lattice Tower. A
self-supporting tower with multiple legs and cross-bracing of structural
steel. d. Monopole Tower. A tower that is self-supporting with a single
shaft of wood, steel, concrete or other construction material and
a platform for panel antennas.
COMMUNICATIONS TOWER, MONOPOLE
A self-supporting pole-type structure, tapering from base
to top and supporting a fixture designed to hold one or more antennas
for transmitting or receiving radio, mobile telephone communications
or electromagnetic waves.
COMMUNICATIONS TOWER, PRIVATE/NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Any structure whose primary purpose is to support one or
more antennas or to serve as an antenna itself for transmitting or
receiving radio or electromagnetic waves for private/not-for-profit
use. This term includes lattice-type structures, either guyed or self-supporting,
monopoles, and camouflaged towers.
COMMUNITY PIER
A pier, dock or wharf, including pilings, and other such
facilities used for the wet storage of watercraft owned by property
owners (or tenants) of lots in the subdivision where the community
pier is located. Private piers are excluded from this definition.
COMMUNITY, RELATIVE TO FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
A political subdivision of the State of Maryland (county,
city or town) that has authority to adopt and enforce floodplain management
regulations within its jurisdictional boundaries.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
COMMUNITY SEWERAGE SYSTEM
A publicly or privately owned sewerage system that serves
at least two lots.
[Added 8-5-2015 by Ord.
No. 31-15]
COMMUTER PARKING LOT
An area for the temporary storage (parking) of operable passenger
automobiles that is designated for use by persons commuting to and
from their place of employment and may be used for commuter bus connections
and/or ridesharing or carpooling. Includes park and ride lots.
COMPATIBLE USE
A use that is of the same nature as surrounding uses, the
characteristics of which allow it to be located near or adjacent to
other uses in harmony and without adversely affecting surrounding
uses.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
A document prepared by the Planning Commission and approved
by the Board of County Commissioners setting forth policies for the
future of Calvert County. It is the result of considerable study and
analysis of existing physical, economic, and social conditions, and
a projection of future conditions. It serves as a guide for many public
decisions, especially land-use changes and preparation of capital
improvements programs, and the enactment of zoning and related growth
management legislation.
COMPREHENSIVE REZONING
A process that assigns a zoning category to every property
in a defined area at the same time, as a result of adoption of a new
comprehensive plan or amendment to an existing Comprehensive Plan.
CONCEPT PLAN
A general map of a development proposal that shows existing
site conditions (including topography, structures, surrounding land
uses, etc.) and the proposed land use, size of the development, general
layout of structures and streets, lots and utilities.
CONDITIONAL USE
A use permitted in a particular zoning district only upon
showing that such use in a specified location will comply with all
the conditions and standards for the location or operation of such
use as specified in a zoning ordinance.
CONDOMINIUM
A building, or group of buildings, in which units are owned
individually, and the structure, common areas and facilities are owned
by all the owners on a proportional, undivided basis.
CONSERVATION EASEMENT
A non-possessory interest in land which restricts the manner
in which the land may be developed in an effort to preserve or manage
natural resources.
CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
A community developed and operated pursuant to a Certificate
of Registration issued by the Maryland State Department of Aging under
Title 10, Subtitle 4 of the Human Services Article, Maryland Annotated
Code, for the purpose of providing 'continuing care', as that term
is defined in Maryland Annotated Code, Human Services Article, section
10-401 et seq., as amended from time to time.
[Added 8-27-2014]
CONTROLLING AUTHORITY, SEWERAGE
A government body empowered by the county to provide for
management, operation and continuous preventative and corrective maintenance
of a shared facility.
[Added 8-5-2015 by Ord.
No. 31-15]
CONVENTION CENTER
A facility in a completely enclosed building used for corporate,
trade and professional meetings, training seminars, trade shows and/or
exhibition of products and technology and that may include supporting
dining, lodging and recreational facilities as accessory uses.
CONVENTIONAL LOT DENSITY
The maximum number of lots that may be created from a property
after subtracting wetland acres and after factoring any exception
lots for which the property may be eligible.
CORNER LOT
A lot abutting upon two or more roads (not including alleys)
at their intersection.
CORNICED PARAPET
A horizontal molded projection coupled with a low wall on
the edge of a roof designed to screen the roof and/or equipment that
may be on the roof.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS
An office or complex of offices serving as the primary head
office of a commercial or industrial corporation.
COUNTY
Calvert County, Maryland.
COVER CROP
The establishment of a vegetative cover to protect soils
from erosion and to restrict pollutants from entering the waterways.
CREMATORIUM
A building or portion of a building that houses the necessary
equipment and facilities for the cremation of human or animal remains.
CRITICAL AND ESSENTIAL FACILITIES
Buildings and other structures that are intended to remain
operational in the event of extreme environmental loading from flood,
wind, snow or earthquakes. [Note: See Maryland Building Performance
Standards, Sec. 1602 and Table 1604.5.] Critical and essential facilities
typically include hospitals, fire stations, police stations, storage
of critical records, facilities that handle or store hazardous materials,
and similar facilities.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
CRITICAL AREA
All lands and waters defined in Section 8-1807 of the Natural
Resources Article, Annotated Case of Maryland. They include: all waters
of and lands under the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries to the head
of tide as indicated on the State wetlands maps, and all State and
private wetlands designated under Title 9 of the Natural Resources
Article, Annotated Code of Maryland; all land and water areas within
1,000 feet beyond the landward boundaries of State or private wetlands
and the heads of tides designated under Title 9 of the Natural Resources
Article, Annotated code of Maryland; and modification to these areas
through inclusions or exclusions proposed by local jurisdictions and
approved by the Critical Area Commission as specified in Section 8-1807
of the Natural Resources Article, Annotated Code of Maryland.
CRITICAL AREA BUFFER
An existing naturally vegetated area, or an area established
in vegetation and managed to protect aquatic, wetlands, shoreline,
and terrestrial environments from man-made disturbances.
CRITICAL HABITAT AREA
A critical habitat for an endangered species and its surrounding
protection area. A critical habitat area shall: (a) Be likely to contribute
to the long-term survival of the species; (b) Be likely to be occupied
by the species for the foreseeable future; and (c) Constitute habitat
of the species which is considered critical under Natural Resources
Article, §§ 4-2A-04 and 10-2A-06, Annotated Code of
Maryland.
CRITICAL AREA PROGRAM AMENDMENT
Any change or proposed change to the adopted Critical Area
Program that is not determined by the Chairman of the Critical Area
Commission to be a Program Refinement.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
CRITICAL AREA PROGRAM REFINEMENT
Any change or proposed change to the adopted Critical Area
Program that the Chairman of the Critical Area Commission determines
will result in a use of land or water in the Chesapeake Bay Critical
Area in a manner consistent with the adopted Critical Area Program,
or that will not significantly affect the use of land or water in
the Critical Area. Program refinement may include a change to the
adopted Critical Area Program: that results from State law; that affects
local processes and procedures; that clarifies an existing provision;
and, that is a minor change that is clearly consistent with the provisions
of State Critical Area law and all the Criteria of the Commission.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
CUTOFF
A luminaire light distribution where the candela per 1,000
lamp lumens does not numerically exceed 25 (2.5%) at an angle 90°
above nadir, and 100 (10%) at a vertical angle of 80° above nadir.
This applies to all lateral angles around the luminaire.
DANCE HALL
See: Tavern, Nightclub, Lounge, Dance Hall
DAY CARE CENTER
An establishment enrolling four or more clients and where
tuition, fees, or other forms of compensation for the care of the
clients may be charged, and which is licensed.
DECLARATION OF INTENT
A document which is a signed and notarized statement by a
landowner or the landowner's agent certifying that the activity on
the landowner's property: (a) Is for certain activities exempted under
the Calvert County Forest Conservation Program; (b) Does not circumvent
the requirements of this Program; and (c) Does not conflict with the
purposes of any other declaration of intent.
DECLARATION OF LAND RESTRICTION (NONCONVERSION AGREEMENT)
A form signed by the owner to agree not to convert or modify
in any manner that is inconsistent with the terms of the permit and
these regulations, certain enclosures below the lowest floor of elevated
buildings and certain accessory structures. The form requires the
owner to record it on the property deed to inform future owners of
the restrictions.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
DEED
A legal document conveying ownership of or interest in real
property.
DENSITY
The number of dwelling units (excluding accessory apartments)
per unit of land.
DESIGNATED AGRICULTURAL AREA
An area of the County identified by the Agricultural Preservation
Advisory Board as having strong potential for maintaining a viable
level of agricultural or forestry production.
DEVELOPED WOODLAND
An area of trees and natural vegetation interspersed with
residential, commercial, industrial, institutional or recreational
development.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DEVELOPED WOODLAND MANAGEMENT PLAN
A plan associated with a development activity in the Critical
Area that is designed to minimize negative impacts to Developed Woodlands,
that provides appropriate mitigation requirements for any anticipated
impacts, and improves the habitat value for wildlife whenever possible.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DEVELOPER
Any individual(s), partnership, firm, corporation, public
housing authority, or agent therefore, that undertakes or participates
in the establishment or development of a subdivision or parcel of
land.
DEVELOPER IN THE CRITICAL AREA
A person who undertakes development activity as defined in
this Ordinance; or a person who undertakes development activity as
defined in the Criteria of the Critical Area Commission.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DEVELOPMENT
Any activity, other than normal agricultural and/or forestry
activity, which materially affects the existing condition or use of
any land or structure including but not limited to buildings or other
structures, placement of manufactured homes, mining, dredging, filling,
grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment
or materials, which materially affects the existing condition or use
of any land or structure.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY
Human activity that results in disturbance to land, natural
vegetation or a structure.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DEVELOPMENT IN THE FLOODPLAIN
Any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including but not limited to buildings or other structures, placement
of manufactured homes, mining dredging, filling, grading, paving,
excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.
[Amended 3-20-2012]
DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, the grading
or construction activities occurring on a specific tract that is 40,000
square feet or greater and would include redevelopment.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DEVELOPMENT PROJECT COMPLETION
For the purposes of managing afforestation, reforestation
or payment into a fund: (a) The release of the development bond, if
required; (b) Acceptance of the project's streets, utilities, and
public services by the local authority; or (c) A designation by the
State or local authority that (i) Development project has been completed,
or (ii) Particular stage of a staged development project, including
a planned unit development, has been completed.
DIRECTIONAL SIGN
A small permanent sign located near driveway access points
and/or at the intersection of internal access drives.
[Amended 1-31-2018]
DISASTER, NATURAL
Any event caused by natural forces, rather than by human
action, such as but not limited to: earthquake, flood, hurricane,
lightning, or tornado.
[Amended 1-19-2012]
DISPLAY
Make a prominent exhibition in a place where it can easily
be seen.
[Added 1-31-2018]
DISTILLATION OF ALCOHOL AS A FUEL
The fermentation and other refinement of grains and/or other
biomass for the production of liquid fuel. Does not include the capture/reclamation
of methane from agricultural and/or commercial operations.
DISTRICT
A portion of the territory of Calvert County within which
certain regulations and requirements or various combinations thereof
shall apply under the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance.
DISTURBANCE
Any alteration or change to the land including any amount
of clearing, grading or construction activity. Disturbance does not
include gardening or maintenance of an existing grass lawn.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
DOCK, PIER, PRIVATE
Any marine structure, fixed or floating, generally referred
to as a pier, dock or wharf, including pilings, and other such facilities,
used for used for storage of watercraft owned by and registered to
the owner and/or tenant of the property from which the facility extends.
DOCUMENTED BREEDING BIRD AREAS
Forested areas where the occurrence of interior dwelling
birds, during the breeding season, has been demonstrated as a result
of on-site surveys using standard biological survey techniques.
DOMITORY
A structure specifically designed for a long-term stay by
students of a school, college, and/or university, for the purpose
of providing rooms for sleeping purposes. One common kitchen and some
common gathering rooms for social purposes may also be provided.
[Amended 5-22-2013]
DOUBLE-FRONTAGE LOT
A lot having frontage on two non-intersecting roads (not
including alleys) or non-intersecting portions of the same road.
DRAINAGE DIVIDE
An elevation on a topographic map that separates watersheds.
DRAINAGE EASEMENT
An easement for the installation of stormwater sewers or
drainage ditches, and/or for the preservation or maintenance of a
natural stream or watercourse or other drainage facility.
DRIVE-IN THEATER
An open lot with its appurtenant facilities devoted primarily
to showing motion pictures on a paid admission basis to patrons seated
in automobiles.
DRIVE-UP FACILITY, ACCESSORY
A structure which is designed to accommodate patrons' motor
vehicles, from which the occupants of the motor vehicle may make purchases
or transact business.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
DRIVE-UP SIGN
Any signage located along a drive-up lane that is oriented
toward the customer or user in the drive-up lane.
[Added 1-31-2018]
DRIVEWAY
A private area providing access for vehicles to a parking
space, dwelling, garage, or other structure.
DUMP
See: Sanitary Landfill
DURABLE
Able to withstand wear, pressure or damage; hard-wearing
and not easily worn over a long duration.
[Added 1-31-2018]
DWELLING UNIT
One or more rooms forming a single habitable unit with facilities
for living, sleeping, cooking and sanitation. Note: For purposes of
these regulations, manufactured homes containing dwelling units are
subject to special regulations as described in this Ordinance.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
DWELLING UNIT, MULTI-FAMILY
One or more rooms with private bath and kitchen facilities
comprising an independent self-contained dwelling unit in a building
containing more than two such dwelling units.
DWELLING, ATTACHED: DUPLEX, TRIPLEX, FOURPLEX, OR TOWNHOUSE
Attached dwelling units, separated by a vertical division
wall, each of which has direct access to the ground level. The first
floor enclosed living area is on the ground level, or may be elevated
above the dwelling unit's private parking or storage space on the
ground level. These units do not have horizontal separation from any
other residential unit (See: Dwelling, Attached: Multi-family), or
attachment to any non-residential use or parking garage (See: Mixed
Use Building or Mixed Use Development).
[Amended 9-22-2009]
DWELLING, ATTACHED: MULTI-FAMILY
A residential building containing two or more attached dwelling
units with horizontal separation between any of the dwelling units.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
DWELLING, ATTACHED: SINGLE-FAMILY
A residential building on a permanent foundation containing
dwelling units, each of which has primary ground floor access to the
outside and which are attached to each other. The term is intended
primarily for such dwelling types as townhouses, duplexes, triplexes
and fourplexes.
DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY
A residential building on a permanent foundation, containing
one dwelling unit occupied by one family; this definition does not
include manufactured homes or recreational vehicles.
EASEMENT
A grant by the property owner of the use of his land by another
party for a specific purpose.
EATING ESTABLISHMENT WITH DRIVE-UP FACILITY
An Eating Establishment that includes a structure or part
of a structure designed to accommodate patrons' motor vehicles, from
which the occupants of the motor vehicle may make purchases or transact
business.
[Added 1-10-2017 by Ord.
No. 03-17]
EATING ESTABLISHMENT WITH NO OUTDOOR PATRON AREA
A public eating place that serves food for consumption at
tables or counters located entirely within a structure on the premises,
or by carry-out or delivery. This term shall include but not be limited
to, an establishment known as a cafeteria, delicatessen, cafe, smorgasbord,
diner or similar business where the sale of alcohol constitutes less
than 50 percent of the total sales.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
EATING ESTABLISHMENT WITH OUTDOOR PATRON AREA
A public eating place that serves food for consumption at
tables or counters located on the premises (either indoors or outdoors),
or in parking spaces intended for consumption of food in motor vehicles
parked in those spaces, or by carry-out or delivery. This term shall
include but not be limited to, an establishment known as a cafeteria,
delicatessen, cafe, smorgasbord, diner or similar business where the
sale of alcohol constitutes less than 50 percent of the total sales.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 10-13-2010]
EATING ESTABLISHMENT WITHOUT DRIVE-UP FACILITY
A public eating place that serves food for consumption at
tables or counters located on the premises, or by carry-out or delivery,
but that does not have a drive-up facility. This term shall include,
but not be limited to, an establishment known as a cafeteria, delicatessen,
café, smorgasbord, diner or similar business where the sale
of alcohol constitutes less than 50 percent of the total sales.
[Added 1-10-2017 by Ord.
No. 03-17]
ECOSYSTEM
A more or less self-contained biological community together
with the physical environment in which the community's organisms occur.
ECOTOURISM
The act of traveling to learn about and explore the agricultural,
scenic, natural, and historic features of an area or region.
ECOTOURISM ENTERPRISE
Activities conducted on a property and offered to the public
or to invited groups for the close observation of nature. Uses include,
but are not limited to, bird-watching, walking trails, and fishing
ponds. This use does not include motorized activities except to provide
for handicapped access.
ECOTOURISM USE
A commercial enterprise located in an agricultural or preservation
area intended to attract tourists and provide supplemental income
for the property owner. Eco-tourism uses include, but are not limited
to: nature trails, canoeing, fishing, wildlife observation, and birding.
EFFECTIVE APPROVAL DATE
Date stamped by Planning Commission Administrator on Final
Site Plan.
[Added 6-9-2020 by Ord. No. 14-20]
ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER (EMC)
A variable message sign that utilizes computer-generated
messages or some other mechanical or electronic means of changing
copy. These signs include displays using one or more lamps, light
emitting diodes (LEDs), liquid-crystal display (LCDs) or a flipper
matrix.
[Added 1-31-2018]
ELEMENTARY OR SECONDARY SCHOOL
An educational facility that typically includes pre-kindergarten
through twelfth grades. Includes buildings, structures, or facilities
that by design and construction are primarily intended for the education
of students including accessory associated uses, including, without
limitation, dormitories, office buildings, athletic fields, etc.
[Amended 5-22-2013]
ELEVATION CERTIFICATE
FEMA Form 086-0-33, on which surveyed elevations and other
data pertinent to a property and a building are identified and which
shall be completed by a licensed professional land surveyor or a licensed
professional engineer, as specified by the Floodplain Administrator.
When used to document the height above grade of buildings in special
flood hazard areas for which base flood elevation data are not available,
the Elevation Certificate shall be completed in accordance with the
instructions issued by FEMA. [Note: FEMA Form 086-0-33 and instructions
are available online at http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1383.]
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
EMINENT DOMAIN
The authority of a government to take, or to authorize the
taking of, private property for public use when it is in the public
interest and the taking has been justly or fairly compensated.
ENCLOSURE BELOW THE LOWEST FLOOR
An unfinished or flood-resistant enclosure that is located
below an elevated building, is surrounded by walls on all sides, and
is usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or storage,
in an area other than a basement area, provided that such enclosure
is built in accordance with the applicable design requirements specified
in these regulations. Also see "Lowest Floor."
[Amended 12-14-2011]
ENDANGERED SPECIES
Any species of fish, wildlife, or plants which have been
designated as such by regulation by the Secretary of the Department
of Natural Resources. Designation occurs when the continued existence
of these species as viable components of the State's resources are
determined to be in jeopardy. This includes any species determined
to be an "endangered" species pursuant to the federal Endangered Species
Act.
ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS, ADULT
Enterprises that provide activities characterized by live,
closed circuit, or reproduced material, including print, audio, and
audiovisual media, that has an emphasis on nudity and/or sexual activity
and/or sexual stimulation. Adult entertainment businesses include
but are not limited to the following types of establishments: adult
bookstores, adult theaters, adult arcades, adult cabarets, gentlemen's
clubs or shows, strip clubs or shows, burlesque clubs or shows, adult
paraphernalia shops, and other establishments which feature a combination
of activities or merchandise described above which collectively make
up a substantial or significant portion of the establishment's activities
or merchandise. The term adult entertainment business also includes
other uses similar to the uses listed above, presenting material for
patrons to view (live, closed circuit or reproductions using all types
of media), and/or purchase or rent, a substantial portion of which
is characterized by an emphasis on nudity and/or sexual activity and/or
sexual stimulation, and limiting entrance to patrons who are over
18 years of age.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT
A statement providing the information needed to evaluate
the effect of a proposed development project upon aspects of the environment
specifically identified by the reviewing body as areas of concern,
such as air quality, water quality, water supply, hydrology, geology,
soil, topography, vegetation, wildlife, aquatic organisms, ecology,
demography, land use, traffic circulation, aesthetics, history and
archelogy. An Environmental Impact Statement includes an inventory
of existing environmental conditions which relate specifically to
the areas of concern identified by the reviewing body, an assessment
of the probable impact of the project upon these areas of concern,
a listing of adverse impacts which can not be avoided, a statement
of steps the applicant proposes to take to minimize adverse impacts
during construction and operation, and a statement indicating whether
there are alternatives which might further minimize adverse impacts.
EPHEMERAL STREAM
A stream that has periodic flow, but requires a storm event
to have flow. There is no connection to groundwater.
EQUIPMENT SHELTER
An enclosed structure, cabinet, shed, vault, or box near
the base of the mount within which are housed equipment for personal
wireless service facilities, such as batteries and electrical equipment.
Equipment shelters are sometimes referred to as base transceiver stations.
ERECT
Construct or installing a building, wall or other structure.
[Added 1-31-2018]
ESTABLISHMENT
Relative to the Critical Area, the creation of native vegetated
cover throughout the Buffer.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
EXCEPTION LOT
A bonus density lot enabled by zoning ordinances on or before
October 21, 1974 which may affect the conventional lot density of
a property.
EXCESS STORMWATER RUN-OFF
All increases in stormwater resulting from: (a) An increase
in the imperviousness of the site, including all additions to buildings,
roads, and parking lots; (b) Changes in permeability caused by compaction
during construction or modifications in contours, including the filling
or drainage of small depression areas; (c) Alteration of drainageways,
or regrading of slopes; (d) Destruction of forest; or (e) Installation
of collection systems to intercept street flows or to replace swales
or other drainageways.
EXTENUATING CIRCUMSTANCES
Conditions requiring extension of a set time limit to: process
an application; render a decision; or conduct a public hearing.
FAA
The Federal Aviation Administration.
FALL ZONE
The area on the ground within a prescribed radius from the
base of a tower. The fall zone is the area within which there is a
potential hazard from falling debris (such as ice) or collapsing material.
FAMILY CONVEYANCE SUBDIVISION
A single-family residential development within which one
(1) or more lots are designated to be conveyed only to family members
of the grantor being: spouse, parent, child, grandchild, grandparent,
sibling, or the child of a sibling. Under Section 7-1.06.J., where
a parcel is undeveloped, the grantor may be considered his or her
own family member for the purpose of creating a family conveyance
lot for oneself, provided all other requirements of the Section are
met.
[Amended 4-26-2017 by Ord. No. 15-17]
FARM
Property receiving agricultural use assessment from the Maryland
Department of Assessments and Taxation and/or within a recorded Agricultural
Preservation District (APD).
[Amended 9-21-2010]
FARM BREWERY
An establishment for the manufacture of malt liquors, such
as beer and ale, using grains such as oats, hops, wheat and barley
produced on the farm on which the farm brewery is located.
FARM BUILDING
A structure, other than a dwelling, accessory to the principal
uses of the farm.
FARM DISTILLERY
A facility located wholly on a farm designed for the distillation
of grains and fruits produced primarily on the farm into alcoholic
beverages.
FARM STAND
A seasonal or year-round facility located on a farm that
specializes in the sale of produce, including value-added agricultural
products, nursery products, and other agricultural goods.
FARM SUPPORT BUSINESS
An enterprise on a farm that is clearly and directly related
to the practice of farming. Services include, but are not limited
to, blacksmithing, farrier, farm implement repair, agricultural pest
service, fertilizer service, irrigation installation service, and
greenhouse construction and installation.
FARM WINERY
An establishment located on a farm with a producing vineyard,
orchard, or similar growing area and with facilities for fermenting
and bottling wine on the premises where the owner manufactures wine
and/or pomace brandy from fresh fruits or other agricultural products
as allowable by state law.
[Amended 5-12-2009]
FARM, TREE
The operation of timber tracts, tree farms, forest nurseries,
and the gathering of forest products.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
FCC
The Federal Communications Commission.
FIELD CROPS
Agricultural plant commodities traditionally grown and harvested
in open land including, but not limited to, grains, vineyards, orchards,
vegetables, legumes, and tobacco.
FINAL SUBDIVISION PLAT
A master drawing of all or any portion of the subdivision,
prepared in accordance with the approved Preliminary Subdivision Plan,
which is to be recorded in the official Plat or Land Records of Calvert
County.
FINANCIAL ASSURANCE
A performance bond, letter of credit, cash deposit, insurance
policy, or other instrument of security acceptable to a local jurisdiction.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
FIRE AND/OR RESCUE SERVICE
An institutional facility that functions as a dispatch for
fire and/or rescue services and which houses related equipment and/or
personnel.
FISHERIES ACTIVITIES
Commercial Water Dependent fisheries facilities including
structures for the packing, processing, canning, or freezing of finfish,
crustaceans, mollusks, and amphibians and reptiles and also including
related activities such as wholesale and retail sales, product storage
facilities, crab shedding, off-loading docks, shellfish culture operations,
and shore-based facilities necessary for aquaculture operations.
FLAG
A sign made of nonrigid material such as canvas or vinyl,
and having no enclosing or supporting framework. A flag is usually
rectangular or triangular in shape, and is attached at one end to
a pole.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 1-31-2018]
FLAG LOT
A lot having access to a public or private right-of-way only
by a narrow strip of land held in fee simple ownership.
[Amended 11-18-1997]
FLASHING LIGHT OR SIGN
Any sign which contains an intermittent or flashing light
source, or which includes the illusion of intermittent or flashing
light by means of animation or any externally mounted intermittent
light source.
[Added 1-31-2018]
FLEA MARKET
See: Market, Flea and Market, Flea, by a Non-Profit Organization
FLEX SPACE BUSINESS
A commercial enterprise consisting of a combination of uses
by a single company in an individual or multi-tenant building. Uses
may include a mix of office, retail, showroom, assembly, warehouse,
laboratory or light manufacturing.
FLOAT
Any floating structure normally used as a point of transfer
for passengers and goods from boats and/or for mooring purposes.
FLOATING HOMES
Any vessel, whether self-propelled or not, which is: used,
designated or occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, place of business,
or for any private or social club, including a structure constructed
upon a barge primarily immobile and out of navigation, or any structure
which functions substantially as a land structure while the same is
moored or docked within Maryland; and which has volume coefficient
greater than 3,000 square feet based upon the ratio of the habital
space of a vessel measured in cubic feet and the draft of a vessel
measured in feet of depth.
FLOOD DAMAGE-RESISTANT MATERIALS
Any construction material that is capable of withstanding
direct and prolonged contact with floodwaters without sustaining any
damage that requires more than cosmetic repair. [Note: See NFIP Technical
Bulletin #2, "Flood Damage-Resistant Materials Requirements."]
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM)
An official map on which the Federal Emergency Management
Agency has delineated special flood hazard areas to indicate the magnitude
and nature of flood hazards, to designate applicable flood zones,
and to delineate floodways, if applicable. FIRMs that have been prepared
in digital format or converted to digital format are referred to as
Digital FIRMs (DFIRM).
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY (FIS)
The official report in which the Federal Emergency Management
Agency has provided flood profiles, floodway information, and the
water surface elevations.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOD OPENING
A flood opening (non-engineered) is an opening that is used
to meet the prescriptive requirement of 1 square inch of net open
area for every square foot of enclosed area. An engineered flood opening
is an opening that is designed and certified by a licensed professional
engineer or licensed architect as meeting certain performance characteristics,
including providing automatic entry and exit of floodwaters; this
certification requirement may be satisfied by an individual certification
for a specific structure or issuance of an Evaluation Report by the
ICC Evaluation Service, Inc. [Note: See NFIP Technical Bulletin #1,
"Openings in Foundation Walls and Walls of Enclosures."]
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
FLOOD OR FLOODING
A general and temporary condition of partial or complete
inundation of normally dry land areas from: (1) The overflow of inland
or tidal waters, and/or The unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff
of surface waters from any source.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOD PROTECTION ELEVATION
The base flood elevation plus two (2) feet of freeboard,
except for Solomons Town Center where the Flood Protection Elevation
is 10' NAVD 88. Freeboard is a factor of safety that compensates for
uncertainty in factors that could contribute to flood heights greater
than the height calculated for a selected size flood and floodway
conditions, such as wave action, obstructed bridge openings, debris
and ice jams, climate change, and the hydrologic effect of urbanization
in a watershed.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOD ZONE
A designation for areas that are shown on Flood Insurance
Rate Maps:
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
(1)
Zone A: Special flood hazard areas subject to inundation by
the 1-percent annual chance (100-year) flood; base flood elevations
are not determined.
(2)
Zone AE and Zone A1-30: Special flood hazard areas subject to
inundation by the 1-percent annual chance (100-year) flood; base flood
elevations are determined; floodways may or may not be determined.
In areas subject to tidal flooding, the Limit of Moderate Wave Action
may or may not be delineated.
(3)
Zone AH and Zone AO: Areas of shallow flooding, with flood depths
of 1 to 3 feet (usually areas of ponding or sheet flow on sloping
terrain), with or without BFEs or designated flood depths.
(4)
Zone B and Zone X (shaded): Areas subject to inundation by the
0.2-percent annual chance (500-year) flood; areas subject to the 1-percent
annual chance (100-year) flood with average depths of less than 1
foot or with contributing drainage area less than 1 square mile; and
areas protected from the base flood by levees.
(5)
Zone C and Zone X (unshaded): Areas outside of Zones designated
A, AE, A1-30, AO, VE, V1-30, B, and X (shaded).
Zone VE and Zone V1-30: Special flood hazard areas subject to inundation by the 1-percent annual chance (100-year) flood and subject to high velocity wave action (also see coastal high hazard area).
|
FLOODPLAIN
Any land area susceptible to being inundated by water from
any source (see definition of "Flood" or "Flooding").
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOODPROOFING CERTIFICATE
FEMA Form 0-86-34 that is to be completed, signed and sealed
by a licensed professional engineer or licensed architect to certify
that the design of floodproofing and proposed methods of construction
are in accordance with the applicable requirements of Section 5.6(B)
of these regulations. [Note: FEMA Form 0-86-034 is available online
at http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1600.]
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
FLOODPROOFING OR FLOODPROOFED
Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes, or adjustments to buildings or structures which reduce or
eliminate flood damage to real estate or improved real property, water
and sanitary facilities, structures and their contents, such that
the buildings or structures are watertight with walls substantially
impermeable to the passage of water and with structural components
having the capability of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads
and effects of buoyancy.
[Note: State regulations at COMAR 26.17.11(B)(7) do not allow
new nonresidential buildings in nontidal waters of the State to be
floodproofed.]
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOODWAY
The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent
land areas that must be reserved in order to pass the base flood discharge
such that the cumulative increase in the water surface elevation of
the base flood discharge is no more than a designated height. When
shown on a FIRM, the floodway is referred to as the "designated floodway."
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FLOOR AREA RATIO (FAR)
The ratio of a building's total floor area to the size of
the parcel of land (net developable acres) upon which it is built.
The FAR calculation includes the total area on all floors of all buildings
on a parcel. When used in a zoning district which does not encompass
the entire parcel, only the portion of the parcel in the zoning district
shall be used for the calculation.
[Amended 6-12-2013]
FOOTCANDLE
A unit of illuminance stated in lumens per square foot and
measurable with an illuminance meter, a.k.a. footcandle or light meter.
FOREST
A biological community dominated by trees and other woody
plants covering a land area of 1,000 square feet or more. This also
includes forests that have been cut, but not cleared. Areas commercially
harvested of forest cover in the Critical Area will be considered
forested for development purposes. Outside of the Critical area and
relative to the Forest Conservation Program, forests shall be defined
as 10,000 square feet or greater and shall include:
(1)
areas that have at least 100 trees per acre with at least 50
percent of those trees having a two inch or greater diameter, and
(2)
forest areas that have been cut but not cleared. Forest does
not include orchards.
FOREST CONSERVATION
The retention of existing forest or the creation of new forest
during development.
FOREST CONSERVATION MANUAL
The Maryland Forest Conservation Technical Manual, as amended
from time to time, which is incorporated by reference.
FOREST CONSERVATION PLAN
A plan attached to the development site plan containing a
map drawn to scale which shows
(1)
areas required for forest conservation,
(2)
an afforestation plan showing planting areas on and off site,
(3)
a construction timetable, and
(4)
management and protective agreements for the conservation areas.
FOREST COVER
The area of a site meeting the definition of forest.
FOREST INTERIOR DWELLING BIRD HABITAT
(1)
Forests at least 50 acres in size with 10 or more acres of "forest
interior" habitat (i.e. forest greater than 300 feet from the nearest
forest edge). The majority of the forest tract should be dominated
by pole-sized or larger trees (5 inches or more in diameter at breast
height), or have a closed canopy; or
(2)
Riparian forests at least 50 acres in size with an average total
width of at least 300 feet. The majority of the forest tract should
be dominated by pole-sized or larger trees, or have a closed canopy.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
FOREST MANAGEMENT
The protection, manipulation, and utilization of the forest
to provide multiple benefits, such as timber harvesting, water transpiration,
wildlife habitat, etc.
FOREST MANAGEMENT PLAN
A document approved by the Maryland Department of Natural
Resources forester assigned to Calvert County establishing best forest
conservation and management practices for a landowner in assessment
of the resource values of the forested property.
FOREST PRACTICE
The alteration of the forest either through tree removal
or replacement in order to improve the timber, wildlife, recreational,
or water quality values.
FOREST PRESERVATION AREA
Forest area in the Critical Area to remain as forest in perpetuity
for water quality protection and wildlife habitat unless appropriate
permits or approval are obtained.
FOREST PRODUCT PROCESSING
The post-harvest processing of timber and non-timber materials
from forests off-site. Such uses may include fixed-location stump-grinding
and the production of mulch. This definition does not include commercial
sawmills, portable sawmills, paper mills, or chip mills.
FOREST RETENTION AREA
Forest area outside of the Critical Area to remain as forest
in perpetuity for water quality protection and wildlife habitat unless
appropriate permits or approval are obtained.
FOREST STAND DELINEATION
The methodology for evaluating the existing natural features
and vegetation on a site proposed for development, taking into account
the environmental elements that shape or influence the structure or
makeup of a plant community.
FORESTRY
The management of timber tracts, tree farms, forest nurseries,
and the gathering of forest products.
FREEBOARD
An increment of elevation added to the base flood elevation
to provide a factor of safety for uncertainties in calculations, wave
actions, subsidence, or other unpredictable effects.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
FREE-OF-OBSTRUCTION
A term that describes open foundations (pilings, columns,
or piers) without attached elements or foundation components that
would obstruct the free passage of floodwaters and waves beneath structures
that are elevated on such foundations. [Note: See NFIP Technical Bulletin
#5, "Free-of-Obstruction Requirements."]
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FREESTANDING SIGN
Any sign supported upon the ground by a monument, pedestal,
pole, bracing or other permanent measure and not attached to any building.
[Amended 1-31-2018]
FRONT LOT LINE
The lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way.
FRONT ROADWAY BUFFER
An area within a subdivision designated along an existing
public road that is vegetated and designed to afford the least visibility
of the development from the road.
FRONT YARD
A space extending the full width of the lot between any building,
structure or use and the front lot line, and measured perpendicularly
from the building, structure or use at the closest point to the front
lot line.
FULL CUTOFF
A luminaire light distribution where zero candela intensity
occurs at an angle of 90° above nadir, and at all greater angles
from nadir. Additionally, the candela per 1,000 lamp lumens does not
numerically exceed 100 (10%) at a vertical angle of 80° above
nadir. This applies to all lateral angles around the luminaire.
FUNCTIONALLY DEPENDENT USE
A use which cannot perform its intended purpose unless it
is located or carried out in close proximity to water; the term includes
only docking facilities, port facilities that are necessary for the
loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, and ship building and
ship repair facilities, but does not include long-term storage or
related manufacturing facilities.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
FUNERAL HOME
An establishment, licensed by the State, that prepares human
remains for burial, coordinates the cremation of remains, and arranges,
manages, and/or conducts funeral services and memorial services. A
funeral home may also sell burial goods as accessory to the primary
use. A funeral home may include a chapel or other facility in which
funerals are conducted. This definition does not include crematoriums
or cemeteries.
GARAGE SALE, YARD SALE OR ESTATE SALE
All general sales, open to the public, conducted from or
on a residential premise in any District for the purpose of disposing
of personal property including, but not limited to, all sales entitled
"garage," "lawn," "yard," "attic," "estate," "porch," "room," "backyard,"
"patio," or "rummage" sale. This definition shall not include flea
markets.
GARDEN CENTER OR FARM SUPPLY STORE
An establishment with retail sales of nursery stock, landscaping
and/or gardening equipment and tools, seeds, and/or the sale of supplies
related to farming including, but not limited to, animal feeds, fencing,
irrigation supplies, fertilizer, small equipment, pesticides, and
similar goods.
GLARE
The sensation produced by lighting that causes an annoyance,
discomfort or loss in visual performance and visibility to the eye.
Glare is subjective and cannot be measured with a meter.
GOLF COURSE
A facility designed for the playing of the game of golf,
including accessory uses such as a driving range or miniature golf
course.
GRADING
Any act by which soil is cleared, stripped, stockpiled, excavated,
scarified, filled or any combination thereof.
GRAIN ELEVATOR
A storehouse for threshed grain or animal feed for wholesale
or retail sale.
GRANDFATHERED SITE PLAN
A conceptual or detailed site development plan application
that has been permitted or approved by prior legislation to proceed
under regulations that have been superseded.
[Added 6-9-2020 by Ord. No. 14-20]
GRANTEE
A person to whom property is conveyed.
[Added 4-26-2017 by Ord.
No. 15-17]
GRANTOR
A person who conveys property to another.
[Added 4-26-2017 by Ord.
No. 15-17]
GRID ADDRESS NUMBERING SYSTEM
The mathematical computation of premise addresses using hundred
blocks beginning at the Zero Grid, as defined in Section 10-1.02.B.
GROIN
A shore protection structure built perpendicular to the shore
to trap sand and retard shoreline erosion.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
GROSS FLOOR AREA
The sum of the gross horizontal areas of the floor or floors
of a building measured from the exterior face of the exterior walls,
or from the centerline of a wall separating two buildings, but not
including interior parking spaces, loading and unloading space for
motor vehicles, or any space where the floor-to-ceiling height is
less than six feet.
GROUP HOME
A community-based living facility offering a family or home-like
environment for up to 16 residents for people who need assistance
or care in some form (e.g., seniors, disabled, etc.).
GROWING SEASON
From April 7 to November 7 for any year.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
HABITAT PROTECTION AREA
An area where plant communities and physiographic features
provide food, water cover, nesting, foraging and/or feeding conditions
necessary to maintain populations of rare, threatened, or endangered
species; or colonial water bird nesting sites, historic waterfowl
staging and concentration areas, riparian forest or other areas identified
to be of local, state or federal significance for existing plant and
wildlife habitat areas, including the Critical Area Buffer and anadromous
fish propagation waters.
HABITAT PROTECTION PLAN
A plan associated with a development activity in the Critical
Area that is designed to minimize negative impacts to a Habitat Protection
Area, provides appropriate mitigation requirements for any anticipated
impacts, and improves the habitat value for wildlife whenever possible.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE
A site, building, or facility that can be approached, entered,
and used by individuals with disabilities.
HANDICAPPED ADAPTABLE
A site, building, or facility that includes, at a minimum:
(1)
door widths of all interior and exterior doors measuring 36
inches;
(2)
no more than one step from outside to inside; and
(3)
reinforced walls for installation of handrails in bathrooms
and hallways.
HARBOR LINE
The line as shown on the applicable Zoning Map for Harbor
Lines defining the channelward limits of marine construction for a
given waterway.
HELIPORT
A permanent facility designed to accommodate the operation
and routine servicing and maintenance of helicopters.
HERITAGE TOURISM USE
A commercial enterprise intended to attract tourists and
provide supplemental income for the property owner. Heritage Tourism
uses include, but are not limited to: tours of historic structures,
re-enactments, and cultural festivals.
HERITAGE TRAIL DISPLAYS
A trail board, kiosk, or station where visitors are directed,
either for a fee or at no cost, to gain information about local history.
HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE
The highest natural elevation of the ground surface, prior
to construction, next to the proposed foundation of a structure.
[Added 12-14-2011]
HIGHLY ERODIBLE SOILS
Those soils with a slope greater than 15 percent; or those
soils with a K value greater than 0.35 and with slopes greater than
five percent.
HISTORIC FEATURE
An object or structure having a special historical, architectural,
cultural or aesthetic value for a community that is:
[Amended 9-22-2009; 12-14-2011]
(1)
Individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places
(a listing maintained by the U.S. Department of Interior) or preliminarily
determined by the Secretary of the Interior as meeting the requirements
for individual listings on the National Register;
(2)
Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of the
Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered
historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary
to qualify as a registered historic district;
(3)
Individually listed on the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties
or Archeological Sites Inventory maintained by the Maryland Historical
Trust; or
(4)
Individually listed on the inventory of historic places maintained
by Calvert County whose historic preservation program has been certified
by the Maryland Historical Trust, National Park Service, the Secretary
of the Interior.
[Amended 11-10-2014 by Ord. No. 43-14]
HISTORIC WATERFOWL STAGING AND CONCENTRATION AREA
An area of open water and adjacent marshes where waterfowl
gather during migration and throughout the winter season. These areas
are "historic" in the sense that their location is common knowledge
and because these areas have been used regularly during recent times.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
The addition to or alteration, conversion, improvement, modernization,
remodeling, repair, or replacement of a building or part of a building
that is used or designed to be used as a residence or dwelling place
or a structure adjacent to that building; or an improvement to land
adjacent to the building. Includes: construction, improvement, or
replacement, on land adjacent to the building or on the same or contiguous
parcels or lots, of a driveway, fall-out shelter, fence, garage, landscaping,
deck, pier, porch, swimming pool, or a shore erosion control project,
as defined under § 8-1001 of the Natural Resources Article,
for a residential property; and as further defined under Section BR
8-101 of the Business Article.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
HOME IMPROVEMENT CENTER
A commercial retail store that sells lumber and other building
materials, where most display and sales activities occur indoors.
Products sold may include paint, wallpaper, glass, fixtures, nursery
stock, home appliances, and lawn and garden equipment and supplies.
Includes stores selling to the general public even if contractor sales
account for a major proportion of total sales.
HOME OCCUPATION
Any activity carried out for gain by a resident as an accessory
use in the resident's dwelling unit. This definition does not apply
to business activities conducted on farms, as permitted by this Zoning
Ordinance.
HOME POWER GENERATING FACILITY
A facility designed and constructed near an individual residence
for the purpose of generating power for use in that residence.
HOME STUDIO
A home occupation involving the production of arts and craft
products using paint, clay, fabric, metal or other medium and/or related
to the study and training of performing arts, including but not limited
to dance, voice, theatre or music.
HOSPITAL
An institution providing primary health services, medical
and surgical care to persons, primarily inpatients, suffering from
illness, disease, injury, deformity and other abnormal physical or
mental conditions, and including, as an integral part of the institution,
related facilities such as laboratories, outpatient facilities and
training facilities.
HOTEL
A facility which offers transient lodging accommodations
to the general public and may provide additional services such as
restaurants, meeting rooms, and recreation facilities.
HYDROLOGIC AND HYDRAULIC ENGINEERING ANALYSES
Analyses performed by a licensed professional engineer, in
accordance with standard engineering practices that are accepted by
the Maryland Department of the Environment (Nontidal Wetlands &
Waterways) and FEMA, used to determine the base flood, other frequency
floods, flood elevations, floodway information and boundaries, and
flood profiles.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
HUNTING RESERVE
Any tract or parcel of land that is used for the purpose
of releasing game species for commercial hunting.
HUNTING SERVICE
A service on a farm provided for the hunting of game birds
and mammals that are managed by the Maryland Department of Natural
Resources. May include guide service and/or the care of game birds
and mammals killed.
HYDRIC SOILS
Soils that are wet frequently enough to periodically produce
anaerobic conditions, thereby influencing the species composition
or growth, or both, of plants on those soils.
HYDROPHYTIC VEGETATION
Those plants cited in "Vascular Plant Species Occurring in
Maryland Wetlands" (Dawson, F. et al., 1985) which are described as
growing in water or on a substrate that is at least periodically deficient
in oxygen as a result of excessive water content (plants typically
found in water habitats).
ILLUMINANCE
The intensity of incident light at a point, measured with
a light meter in footcandles or lux.
IMMEDIATE FAMILY
A father, mother, son, daughter, grandfather, grandmother,
grandson, or granddaughter.
IMPROVEMENT PLAN
A plan which shows improvements and amenities to be located
within a subdivision or residential development, either proposed by
the developer or required by County or State regulations.
IN-KIND REPLACEMENT
The removal of a structure and the construction of another
structure that is smaller than or identical to the original structure
in use, footprint area, width and length.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT AREA
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, includes schools,
colleges, universities, military installations, transportation facilities,
utility and sewer projects, government offices and facilities, golf
courses, recreation areas, parks, and cemeteries.
INSTITUTIONS
Any building or open area used only by an educational, religious,
or medical, non-profit organization, either public or private.
INTENSE DEVELOPMENT AREA (IDA)
Those areas within the Critical Area where residential, commercial,
institutional, and/or industrial developed land uses predominate,
and where relatively little natural habitat occurs. These areas are
designated on the Critical Area Map as IDA.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
INTERMITTENT STREAM
A stream that has a visible periodic base flow connected
with the ground water and may flow without the presence of storm events.
Storm events may enhance the volume of flow. These streams may be
noted on maps, site plans, or determined by studies or in the field
at the discretion of the local jurisdiction.
INVASIVE SPECIES
A type of plant that is non-native to the ecosystem under
consideration and whose introduction causes, or is likely to cause,
economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
JURISDICTIONAL DETERMINATION OF WETLANDS
The identification and location of jurisdictional Waters
of the United States (which includes wetlands) regulated by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers (COE) under Section 404 of the Clean Water
Act of 1977, is physically determined through a process known as a
jurisdictional determination (JD). The method of performing a JD employs
a multi-parameter approach defined in Technical Report Y-87-1, Corps
of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual, dated January 1987, and
supplemental guidance. It generally requires positive evidence of
hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils, and wetlands hydrology for a
determination that an area is a wetland. The JD process establishes
a line that separates and identifies the COE-regulated wetland areas
from non-wetland (upland) areas that are not regulated by the COE.
K VALUE
The soil erodibility factor in the Universal Soil Loss Equation.
It is a quantitative value that is experimentally determined.
KILN, WOOD-DRYING
A chamber or tunnel used for drying and conditioning lumber,
veneer, and other wood products in which the temperature and relative
humidity of the circulated air can be varied and controlled.
KITCHEN
A room or an area equipped for preparing and cooking food.
LANDFILL, LAND-CLEARING DEBRIS
A Sanitary Landfill which accepts only land-clearing debris.
Types of waste permitted are limited to those associated with land-clearing
operations, including earthen material such as clay, sand, gravel,
and silt, topsoil, tree stumps, root mats, brush and limbs, logs,
vegetation, and rock.
LANDFILL, RUBBLE
A Sanitary Landfill which accepts only rubble. Types of waste
permitted are limited to those materials accepted at Land-Clearing
Landfills, along with demolition debris associated with the razing
of buildings, roads, bridges and other structures including structural
steel, concrete, bricks, lumber, plaster and plasterboard, sheet rock,
insulation material, cement, shingles and roofing materials, floor
and wall tile, asphalt, pipes and wires, and other items physically
attached to structures, including appliances if they have been or
will be compacted to their smallest practical volume.
LANDFILL, SANITARY
An area used for the disposal of solid waste, operated and
maintained in accordance with solid waste disposal regulations of
the County and State.
LANDFORMS
Features of the earth's surface created by natural causes.
LANDSCAPING PLAN
A plan:
(1)
Drawn to scale, showing dimensions and details for reforesting
an area at least 35 feet wide and covering 2,500 square feet or greater
in size;
(2)
Using native or indigenous plants when appropriate; and
(3)
Which is made part of an approved forest conservation plan.
Such landscaping and street tree plantings may be used as credit toward
reforestation requirements in all zoning categories except Rural zoned
land with either a Resource Preservation or Farm Community Overlay.
LANDWARD EDGE
The limit of a site feature that is furthest away from a
tidal water, tidal wetland, or tributary stream.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LARGE SHRUB
A shrub that, when mature, reaches a height of at least 6
feet.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LATERAL LINE
A line projecting from the shoreline to the harbor line separating
useable waterway areas and determined by bisecting the angles formed
by the shoreline at property corners.
LAUNDRY/LAUNDROMAT
A place where patrons wash, dry or dry-clean clothing or
other fabrics in machines operated by the patron.
LAUNDRY, INDUSTRIAL
An establishment providing washing, drying or dry cleaning
of uniforms, linens, etc. for businesses.
LED SIGN
A sign containing light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
[Amended 9-22-2009]
LEGALLY DEVELOPED
Land that has been developed consistent with all Calvert
County laws and regulations.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LETTER OF MAP CHANGE (LOMC)
A Letter of Map Change is an official FEMA determination,
by letter, that amends or revises an effective Flood Insurance Rate
Map or Flood Insurance Study. Letters of Map Change include:
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord.
No. 43-14]
Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA): An amendment based on technical
data showing that a property was incorrectly included in a designated
special flood hazard area. A LOMA amends the current effective Flood
Insurance Rate Map and establishes that a specific property or structure
is not located in a special flood hazard area.
|
Letter of Map Revision (LOMR): A revision based on technical
data that may show changes to flood zones, flood elevations, floodplain
and floodway delineations, and planimetric features. A Letter of Map
Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F), is a determination that a structure
or parcel of land has been elevated by fill above the base flood elevation
and is, therefore, no longer exposed to flooding associated with the
base flood. In order to qualify for this determination, the fill must
have been permitted and placed in accordance with the community's
floodplain management regulations.
|
Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR): A formal review
and comment as to whether a proposed flood protection project or other
project complies with the minimum NFIP requirements for such projects
with respect to delineation of special flood hazard areas. A Conditional
Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (CLAMOR) is a determination that
a parcel ofland or proposed structure that will be elevated by fill
would not be inundated by the base flood if fill is placed on the
parcel as proposed or the structure is built as proposed. A CLOMR
does not revise the effective Flood Insurance Rate Map or Flood Insurance
Sturdy; upon submission and approval of certified as-built documentation,
a Letter of Map Revision and may be issued by FEMNA, to revise the
effective FIRM.
|
LIBRARY
A facility intended primarily for the repository of books
and other similar items for public appreciation and information.
LICENSED
As used in these regulations, licensed refers to professionals
who are authorized to practice in the State of Maryland by issuance
of licenses by the Maryland Board of Architects, Maryland Board of
Professional Engineers, Maryland Board of Professional Land Surveyors,
and the Maryland Real Estate Appraisers and Home Inspectors Commission.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
LIGHT TRESPASS
Light emitted by a lighting installation, which extends beyond
the boundaries of the property on which the installation is sited.
LIMITED DEVELOPMENT AREA (LDA)
Those areas within the Critical Area which are developed
in low or moderate intensity uses. They also contain areas of natural
plant and animal habitats, and the quality of runoff from these areas
has not been substantially altered or impaired. These areas are designated
on the Critical Area map as LDA.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LIMIT OF MODERATE WAVE ACTION (LiMWA)
Inland limit of the area affected by waves greater than 1.5
feet during the base flood. Base flood conditions between the VE Zone
and the LiMWA will be similar to, but less severe than those in the
VE Zone.
[Added 11-10-2014 by Ord.
No. 43-14]
LIQUID NATURAL GAS IMPORT OR EXPORT FACILITY
A Liquid Natural Gas Terminal as defined by the Code of Federal
Regulations, 18 CFR § 153.2(d), as amended from time to
time, that is subject to regulation by the Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission (FERC).
[Amended 11-26-2013]
LIVEABOARDS
Permanent occupancy of watercraft. This definition does not
apply to weekend and short-term vacation use of watercraft.
LIVESTOCK AUCTION AND/OR SALES BARN, COMMERCIAL
A place of business to which the public may consign livestock
for sale by auction open to public bidding or sold on a commission
basis. Auctions conducted by non-profit organizations such as Future
Farmers of America and 4-H groups, auction sales conducted in conjunction
with county, state or private fairs, or auction sales conducted by
or for a person at which livestock of such person's ownership are
sold on the premises of the person, are not included in this definition.
LIVESTOCK AUCTION BY A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION OR FARM OWNER
A place of business to which the public may consign livestock
for sale by auction open to public bidding conducted by non-profit
organizations such as Future Farmers of America and 4-H groups, including
auction sales conducted in conjunction with county, state or private
fairs, or auction sales conducted by or for a person at which livestock
of such person's ownership are sold on the premises of the person
by a non-profit organization.
LIVING SHORELINE
A shoreline management technique that provides erosion control
benefits while providing natural shoreline habitat.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
LOADING AREA
An off-street space or berth used for the loading or unloading
of vehicles.
LOCAL ROAD
A road or street designed to provide vehicular access to
abutting property.
LODGER
A non-transient individual other than a member of the family
occupying the dwelling unit or a part thereof who, for a consideration,
is furnished sleeping accommodations and may be furnished meals or
other services as part of the consideration.
[Amended 5-22-2013]
LOT
A parcel or portion of a larger parcel or subdivision whether
buildable or not. A contiguous area of land separated from other areas
of land by separate description including a recorded deed, a subdivision
plat, or record of survey map, or by metes and bounds, for purpose
of sale, lease, transfer of ownership, or separate use.
[Amended 12-9-2006]
LOT CONSOLIDATION
A combination of any legal parcels or lots of land into fewer
parcels or lots.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LOT COVERAGE
The percentage of a total lot or parcel that is: occupied
by a structure, accessory structure, parking area, driveway, walkway,
roadway; or covered with gravel, stone, shell, impermeable decking,
a paver, permeable pavement, or any manmade material except that it
does not include a fence or wall that is less than one foot in width
that has not been constructed with a solid footer, a walkway in the
Buffer or expanded Buffer, including a stairway, that provides direct
access to a community or private pier, a wood mulch pathway; a deck
with gaps to allow water to pass freely, gravel or stone under a pervious
deck not used for vehicular parking or storage, or stormwater management
and erosion control measures when specifically designed and installed
to perform stormwater management or erosion control functions.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
LOT FRONTAGE
The length of the front lot line measured at the street right-of-way
line.
LOT LINE
A line of record bounding a lot which divides one lot from
another lot, parcel, or from a public or private street
LOT WIDTH
The distance between side lot lines measured at the front
building restriction line.
LOUNGE
See: Tavern, Nightclub, Lounge, Dance Hall
LOWEST FLOOR
The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement)
of a building or structure; the floor of an enclosure below the lowest
floor is not the lowest floor provided the enclosure is constructed
in accordance with these regulations. The lowest floor of a manufactured
home is the bottom of the lowest horizontal supporting member (longitudinal
chassis frame beam).
[Amended 12-14-2011]
LUMEN
A unit of luminous flux; used to measure the amount of light
emitted by lamps.
LUMINAIRE
The complete lighting assembly (including the lamp, housing,
reflectors, lenses, and shields), less the support assembly (pole
or mounting bracket); a light fixture. For the purposes of determining
total light output from a luminaire or light fixture, lighting assemblies
which include multiple unshielded or partially shielded lamps on a
single pole or standard shall be considered as a single unit.
LUX
A unit of illuminance stated in lumens per square meter.
There are approximately 10.7 lux per footcandle.
MAA
The Maryland Aviation Administration.
MAC
Maryland Accessibility Code.
MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT
The short-term management agreement associated with afforestation
or reforestation plans required under the Forest Conservation Program.
MAJOR DEVELOPMENT IN THE CRITICAL AREA
Development of a scale that may cause State-wide, regional
or inter-jurisdictional, environmental or economic effects in the
Critical Area, or which may cause substantial impacts on the Critical
Area Program of a local jurisdiction. This type of development includes,
but is not limited to, airports, power plants, wastewater treatment
plants, highways, regional utility transmission facilities, prisons,
hospitals, public housing projects, public beaches, and intensely
developed park and recreation facilities.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
MAJOR SUBDIVISION
(1)
When the total number of new residential lots or other divisions
of land subject to Article 7 are derived from a parcel of record as
of October 1, 2012 is eight or more.
(2)
Any division of non-residential land for development purposes
and/or the creation of any new public rights-of-way; except that residential
minor subdivisions creating a public right of way will be considered
a minor subdivision with Planning Commission approval.
[Amended 12-19-2012]
MANUFACTURED HOME
A structure, transportable in one or more sections and designed
to be used as a dwelling, which is built on a permanent chassis and
is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when connected
to the required utilities. The structure is built in a factory and
bears a seal certifying that it conforms to the U.S. Department of
Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Manufactured Home Construction
and Safety Standards Code (a.k.a. mobile home or residential trailer).
This definition does not include modular houses or recreational vehicles.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
MANUFACTURED HOME COMMUNITY
Any property containing two or more manufactured homes sold,
leased or held out for lease to residents or prospective residents
(a.k.a. "MH Community").
MANUFACTURED HOME STAND
The outline of the actual manufactured home including the
paved portion of any outdoor living area. Proposed or anticipated
structural additions to a manufactured home such as carports, Florida
rooms, or attached storage areas shall be considered part of the manufactured
home stand.
MANUFACTURING AND/OR ASSEMBLY, HEAVY
Establishments involved in the basic processing and manufacturing
of materials or products predominantly from extracted or raw materials
and that are generally not compatible with residential uses. Includes
but is not limited to foundries, fossil fuel refineries and similar
heavy industrial uses.
MANUFACTURING AND/OR ASSEMBLY, LIGHT
The production, processing, cleaning, testing and distribution
of materials, goods, foodstuffs and products which by the nature of
the materials, equipment and process utilized is to a considerable
measure clean, quiet, and free of any objectionable or hazardous element.
MARINA
A facility for storing, servicing, fueling, berthing and/or
securing of watercraft, but not including community piers and other
non-commercial boat docking and storage facilities.
MARINE FACILITY
Any facility affecting the use and operations of any vessels
on any waterway under the jurisdiction of the County, such as moorings,
docks, etc.
MARKET, ARTISANS' AND CRAFTERS'
A site with or without permanent structures, operated on
a seasonal or year-round basis that allows multiple artists and/or
crafters to retail products that they produce directly to consumers.
May operate separately or in conjunction with a Farmers' Market and/or
a Waterman's Market.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
MARKET, FARMERS'
A structure, either permanent or temporary, operated on a
seasonal or year-round basis, that allows one or more agricultural
producers to retail their products and agriculture-related items directly
to consumers.
[Amended 3-25-2008; 9-22-2009]
MARKET, FLEA
An occasional or periodic market usually held in an open
area, but which may be held indoors, where an individual or groups
of individual sellers offer goods for sale to the public for a fee
or other compensation paid to a for-profit entity. There may exist
long-term or short-term leases between the sellers and operators and
the sellers may use their own vehicles for display or set up temporary
tables or booths for their wares or stalls or other means of display
may be provided.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
MARKET, FLEA, BY A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
A temporary market held in an open area or in a structure
where groups of individual sellers offer goods for sale to the public
for the exclusive purpose of raising funds for a non-profit organization.
MARKET, WATERMEN'S
A site with or without permanent structures, operated on
a seasonal or year-round basis that sells seafood. May operate in
conjunction with a Farmers' Market, Farm Stand, and/or an Artisans'
and Crafters' Market.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 9-21-2010]
MARKET VALUE
The price at which a property will change hands between a
willing buyer and a willing seller, neither party being under compulsion
to buy or sell and both having reasonable knowledge of relevant facts.
For the purposes of these regulations, the market value of a building
is determined by a licensed real estate appraiser or the most recent,
full phased-in assessment value of the building (improvement) determined
by the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
MARYLAND DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT (MDE)
A principal department of the State of Maryland that is charged
with, among other responsibilities, the coordination of the National
Flood Insurance Program in Maryland (NFIP State Coordinator) and the
administration of regulatory programs for development and construction
that occur within the waters of the State, including nontidal wetlands,
nontidal waters and floodplains, and State and private tidal wetlands
(Tidal Wetlands). Unless otherwise specified, "MDE" refers to the
Department's Wetlands and Waterways Program.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
MASSAGE
Any method of treating the external parts of the human body,
for compensation, by touching, rubbing, stroking, kneading, tapping
or vibrating with the hand, arm, foot, or with any instrument. Massage
does not include stimulation to the point of sexual arousal or ejaculation;
nor does it include manipulation by a masseuse or masseur of the genitals,
pubic areas, or buttocks of the human male or female, or the breasts
of the female. In the context of the enforcement of this Ordinance,
this conduct is presumptively considered a danger to public health,
safety and welfare.
MASSAGE PARLOR
Any establishment having a fixed place of business where
massages are performed, devoting more than five percent of the floor
space to massages and whose gross income from massages in any business
location is more than 10 percent of the gross income from that location.
MASTER SIGN PLAN
A comprehensive plan that provides for variation in the amount,
location or features of permanent signage that shows the general locations
of all signs.
[Added 1-31-2018]
MINOR BUFFER MANAGEMENT PLAN
A landscape plan and supporting documentation required under
Section 8-1.08.D.3 of this Ordinance.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
MINI-STORAGE
A structure containing separate storage spaces of varying
sizes leased or rented on an individual basis.
MINOR SUBDIVISION
[Amended 12-19-2012; 4-26-2017 by Ord. No.
15-17]
(1)
When the total number of residential lots or other divisions
of land subject to Article 7 are derived from a parcel of record as
of October 1, 2012 is seven (7) or less.
(2)
Any division of land for development purposes that does not
require the creation of any new right-of-way, other than a private
lane and family conveyance easement or right-of-way; except that residential
minor subdivisions creating a public right of way will be considered
a minor subdivision with Planning Commission approval.
MITIGATION
An action taken to compensate for an adverse impact to the
environment resulting from a development activity or a change in land
use or intensity.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
MIXED-USE BUILDING
A single building, or attached buildings, containing one
or more residential dwelling units and one or more non-residential
land uses which are permitted in the Zoning District or Sub-area and
regulated by the Zoning Ordinance. For the purposes of this Ordinance,
a residential dwelling unit in a mixed use building is not considered
a single-family dwelling (see Apartment in a Mixed Use Building).
[Amended 9-22-2009]
MIXED-USE DEVELOPMENT
A mixed use building or a group of buildings on a single
buildable lot or site plan, that contain both residential dwelling
units and non-residential land uses which are permitted in the Zoning
District or Sub-area and regulated by the Zoning Ordinance.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
MIXED-USE STRUCTURE
Any
structure that is used or intended for
use for a mixture of nonresidential and residential uses in the same
structure.
[Added 11-10-2014 by Ord.
No. 43-14]
MOBILE FOOD SALES
The selling of food from a mobile food-vending unit that
is temporarily parked or located on a private parcel of property.
This Use does not apply to food sales from units parked at events
including, without limitation, fairs, carnivals, festivals, etc.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
MOBILE FOOD VENDING UNIT
Any motorized or non-motorized vehicle, trailer, kiosk, pushcart,
stand or other device designed to be portable and not permanently
attached to the ground from which food is sold.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
MODEL HOME
A residential unit used by builders, realtors, etc., as an
example of other units available for sale or rent.
MONUMENT TREE
(1)
a national, state or local champion tree; or
(2)
a tree having a diameter of at least 24 inches (measured at
4.5 feet above the ground); or
(3)
a tree having a diameter that is at least 75 percent of the
diameter of the current state champion of that species (measured at
4.5 feet above the ground).
MOORING
A place where buoyant vessels are secured other than a pier.
MOORING PILE
A heavy beam of timber, concrete, or steel, driven into the
bottom of a waterway and used to secure boats.
MOTEL
A building or group of buildings containing guest rooms which
are provided for transient occupancy only, including auto courts,
motor lodges and tourist homes.
MOTOR VEHICLE
Any device that is self-propelled or propelled by electric
power by which any individual or property is or might be transported
or towed. This definition includes, but is not limited to, automobiles,
motorcycles, trucks, etc.
MOTOR VEHICLE ACCESSORY SHOP
A retail establishment that specializes in the sale and/or
installation of automotive accessories including but not limited to
audio systems, alarm systems, windshields, and other items that do
not involve exterior body modification that requires major painting
or other body work, or the sale and/or service of tires.
MOTOR VEHICLE DEALERSHIP - NEW OR USED
The use of any building, land area or other premise for the
sale of new or used motor vehicles, watercraft, all-terrain or recreational
vehicles and/or their display for sale. The use of any single property
to sell or offer for sale three or more motor vehicles during any
12-month period is considered a Motor Vehicle Dealership.
[Amended 6-12-2019 by Ord. No. 17-19]
MOTOR VEHICLE STORAGE LOT
(1)
A parking area for the impounding or storage, usually temporary,
of abandoned motor vehicles.
(2)
An area within a residential subdivision or development designated
for the storage of motor vehicles such as automobiles, recreational
vehicles, and boats.
MULTI-FACED SIGN
A sign having at least two (2) display faces, where the sign
faces are not mounted back-to-back and where the faces are such that
the interior angle of the faces is greater than ninety-one (91) degrees
and not being a three-way dimensional sign.
[Added 1-31-2018]
MULTI-SERVICE NON-RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
A mixed use building, or a group of buildings, on a single
buildable lot that contain multiple non-residential land uses which
are permitted in the Zoning District or Sub-area and regulated by
the Zoning Ordinance.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
MULTIUSE SEWERAGE SYSTEM
A sewerage system that: (1) Serves only 1 lot; (2) Serves
a number of individuals; (3) Has a treatment capacity of more than
5,000 gallons a day; and (4) Is not publicly owned or operated.
[Added 8-5-2015 by Ord.
No. 31-15]
MUSEUM
A facility intended primarily for the exhibit and/or repository
and/or research of books, artworks, artifacts, archives and other
similar items for public appreaciation and information. Accessory
sales and services may be permitted.
NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM (NFIP)
The program authorized by the U.S. Congress in 42 U.S.C.
§§ 4001 - 4128. The NFIP makes flood insurance coverage
available in communities that agree to adopt and enforce minimum regulatory
requirements for development in areas prone to flooding (see definition
of "Special Flood Hazard Area").
[Amended 12-14-2011]
NATIVE
Indigenous to the physiographic area in Maryland where the
planting is proposed.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
NATIVE SHRUB
A shrub listed in the Calvert County Native Plants Guide,
prepared and provided by Calvert County Dept. of Planning and Zoning.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
NATIVE TREE
A tree listed in the Calvert County Native Plants Guide,
prepared and provided by the Calvert County Dept. of Planning and
Zoning.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
NATIVE VEGETATION
Vegetation that grows naturally in the area and is included
in the Calvert County Native Plant List.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
NATURAL FEATURES
Components and processes present in or produced by nature,
including but not limited to, soil types, geology, slopes, vegetation,
surface water, drainage patterns, aquifers, recharge areas, climate,
floodplains, aquatic life, and wildlife.
NATURAL HERITAGE AREA
Any communities of plants or animals which are considered
to be among the best Statewide examples of their kind, and are designated
by regulation by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources.
NATURAL REGENERATION
As defined in COMAR 08.19.03.01 if different from, the natural
establishment of trees and other vegetation with at least 400 woody,
free-to-grow seedlings per acre, which are capable of reaching a height
of at least 20 feet at maturity.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
NATURAL VEGETATION
Vegetative cover that exists prior to any disturbance or
development activity or those plant communities that develop in the
absence of human activities. This definition does not include lawns.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
NATURE-DOMINATED
A condition where landforms or biological communities, or
both, have developed by natural processes in the absence of human
intervention.
NET ACREAGE
For the purposes of calculating density, the number of acres
of a parcel remaining after tidal wetlands, non-tidal wetlands, zoned
wetlands, and State wetlands are deducted.
NET FLOOR AREA
Net floor area of a building shall be calculated as 85 percent
of the gross floor area.
NET TRACT AREA
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, the total area
of a site, including both forested and non-forested areas, to the
nearest one-tenth acre, reduced by the area found to be within the
boundaries of the 100-year nontidal floodplain as depicted on the
Calvert County Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). In Agricultural
and Resource Areas, net tract area must also be reduced by any portion
of the tract remaining in agricultural production.
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Structures, including additions and improvements, and the
placement of manufactured homes, for which the start of construction
commenced on or after September 268, 1984, the initial effective date
of the Calvert County Flood Insurance Rate Map, including any subsequent
improvements, alterations, modifications, and additions to such structures.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
NIGHTCLUB, LOUNGE
An establishment, either open to the public or operated as
a private club, which is distinguished from a Tavern or Bar by the
provision of areas for entertainment and/or dancing, and which may
or may not include the sale of alcohol, food or other beverages.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
NON-BUILDABLE RESIDUE
The portion of a parcel remaining after a subdivision is
created that is not intended for development or has not been approved
as a buildable lot at the time of subdivision.
[Amended 12-9-2006]
NON-CONFORMING USE
A use which lawfully existed prior to the adoption or amendment
of this Ordinance, but, by virtue of the adoption or amendment of
this Ordinance, is no longer a permitted use in the Zoning District
within which it is located.
[Amended 10-13-2010]
NON-CONFORMING STRUCTURE
A structure which lawfully existed prior to the adoption
or amendment of this Ordinance, but which, by virtue of the adoption
or amendment of this Ordinance, no longer conforms to the requirements
of this Ordinance in terms of such requirements as area, setback,
or height requirements, etc.
[Amended 10-13-2010]
NON-FARM BREWERY
An establishment for the manufacture of malt liquors, such
as beer and ale, using grains such as oats, hops, wheat and barley.
[Added 12-7-2016]
NON-FARM DISTILLERY
A facility designed for the distillation of grains, fruits
or other agricultural products produced into alcoholic beverages.
[Added 12-7-2016]
NON-FARM WINERY
An establishment for fermenting and bottling wine on the
premises where the owner manufactures wine and/or pomace brandy from
fresh fruits or other agricultural products.
[Added 12-7-2016]
NON-POINT SOURCE POLLUTION
Pollution generated by diffuse land use activities rather
than from an identifiable or discrete facility. it is conveyed to
waterways through natural processes, such as rainfall, storm runoff,
or ground-water seepage rather than by deliberate discharge. Non-point
source pollution is not generally corrected by "end-of-pipe" treatment,
but rather, by changes in land management practices.
NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
Any organization engaging primarily in civic or community
services, including Lions, Kiwanis, Rotary, Optimists, Civitans and
organizations of a similar nature, which is not operated for profit.
NON-STRUCTURAL SHORELINE STABILIZATION MEASURES
A suite of stabilization and erosion control measures that
preserve the natural shoreline and are designed to minimize shoreline
erosion, maintain coastal processes, and provide aquatic habitat.
Measures must include marsh plantings and may include the use of sills,
sand containment structures, breakwaters or other natural components.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
NONTIDAL WATERS OF THE STATE
See "Waters of the State." As used in these regulations,
"nontidal waters of the State" refers to any stream or body of water
within the State that is subject to State regulation, including the
"100-year frequency floodplain of free-flowing waters." COMAR 26.17.04
states that "the landward boundaries of any tidal waters shall be
deemed coterminous with the wetlands boundary maps adopted pursuant
to Environment Article, § 16-301, Annotated Code of Maryland.
Therefore, the boundary between the tidal and nontidal waters of the
State is the tidal wetlands boundary.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
NONTIDAL WETLANDS
Nontidal wetlands are areas that are:
(1)
Inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency
and duration sufficient to support, and under normal conditions do
support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in
saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation;
(2)
Considered a nontidal wetland in accordance with the publication
known as the "Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional
Wetlands," published in 1989 and as may be amended and interpreted
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and
(3)
do not include tidal wetlands regulated under Natural Resources
Article, Title 9, Annotated Code of Maryland.
NURSERY, RETAIL
An area or establishment where trees, shrubs or plants are
grown for transplanting, for use as stock for budding and grafting
or for sale directly to the general public, and where non-plant items
may be sold on a limited basis. Includes delivery and installation
of purchased trees, shrubs, plants and non-plant items, landscaping,
and tree trimming. Storage of machinery and equipment required for
nursery maintenance, delivery, installation, landscaping and tree
trimming is permitted onsite.
[Amended 4-11-2013; 4-15-2016 by Ord. No.
11-16]
NURSERY, WHOLESALE
An area or establishment where trees, shrubs or plants are
grown for transplanting, for use as stock for budding and grafting
or for sale to retailers or other businesses, but not directly to
the general public.
NURSING OR CONVALESCENT HOME
An extended or intermediate care facility licensed or approved
to provide full-time convalescent or chronic care to individuals who,
by reason of advanced age, chronic illness or infirmity, are unable
to care for themselves.
OFFICE SUPPORT SERVICES, INCLUDING PRINTING, COPYING, FAXING,
INTERNETWORKING, ETC.
Businesses that are complimentary to the conduct of business,
trades, and professions and provide support such as photo/photocopying,
printing, postal/delivery, travel/tourism, and telecom and computer/internet
support services.
OFFICE, MEDICAL OR CLINIC
An establishment used by members of licensed health care
and medical professions to provide diagnosis and treatment to the
general public without overnight accommodation and with accessory
uses such as reception areas, administrative offices, consultation
rooms, x-ray and minor operating rooms and a dispensary, providing
that all such uses have access only from the interior of the building
or structure. Examples of such professions include dentists, chiropractors,
osteopaths, physicians, and occupational therapists. This definition
does not include personal services, such as licensed massage therapists.
OFFICE, NON-MEDICAL
An establishment for professional, executive and administrative
offices, including those of accountants, lawyers, architects, engineers,
drafting offices, insurance agents, real estate agents, and other
occupations which are of similar character to those enumerated, but
not including medical professions, barbers, beauty parlors, cosmetologists,
or other personal service establishments.
OFF-PREMISE SIGN
A sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service
or entertainment conducted, sold or offered at a location other than
the premises on which the sign is located.
[Added 1-31-2018]
OFFSETS
Structures or actions that compensate for undesirable impacts.
OFFSITE
Outside the limits of the area encompassed by a tract.
OFF-STREET PARKING SPACE
A temporary storage area for a motor vehicle that is directly
accessible to an access road, and which is not located on a dedicated
street right-of-way.
ONE-HUNDRED-YEAR FLOODPLAIN
(1)
An area along or adjacent to a stream or body of water, except
tidal waters, that is capable of storing or conveying floodwaters
during a 100-year frequency storm event, or a 100-year flood.
(2)
Any area depicted as "My" soils on the Calvert County Soil Survey
Maps. It can be revised based on a hydrologic study or onsite soil
survey.
ON-PREMISE SIGN
A sign that directs attention to a business, commodity, service
or entertainment conducted, sold or offered on the same lot, parcel,
site or property where the sign is located.
[Added 1-31-2018]
ONSITE
Within the limits of an area encompassed by a tract, including
an area classified as a 100-year floodplain.
OPAQUE
Material through which light cannot pass; not transparent.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
OPEN SPACE
(1)
Any parcel or area of land or water essentially unimproved except
for recreational facilities and set aside for public or private use
or enjoyment, or for the use and enjoyment of owners and occupants
of land adjoining or neighboring such open space.
(2)
Open space within the Critical Area is defined as: land and
water areas retained in an essentially undeveloped state.
OUTDOOR LIGHT FIXTURE
An exterior illuminating device, lighting or reflective surface,
luminous tube, lamp or similar device, permanently installed or portable,
used for illumination, decoration, or advertisement.
OUTLOT
(1)
A lot created by subdivision approved by the Planning Commission
but not as a buildable lot, as defined by this Ordinance.
(2)
A lot created by subdivision approved by the Planning Commission
for the purpose of constructing public and community facilities (e.g.,
Public Utility Lines and Accessory Structures, stormwater management
facilities, wastewater and water supply treatment facilities, etc.)
[Amended 8-28-2007]
OVERBURDEN
The strata or material in its natural state, before its removal
by surface mining, overlying mineral deposit, or in between mineral
deposits.
OVERLAY DISTRICT
A special district created for the purpose of imposing special
regulations on given designated areas of the County to accomplish
stated purposes.
OWNER
An individual, firm, association, syndicate, partnership,
or corporation having legal title to a piece of land.
PALUSTRINE
All non-tidal wetlands dominated by trees, shrubs persistent
emergent plants, or emergent mosses or lichens and all such wetlands
that occur in tidal areas where the salinity due to ocean-derived
salts is below one-half part per 1,000 parts of water.
PARCEL
A unit of land identified by the Maryland Department of Assessments
and Taxation as a separate entity for description purposes. May include
an aggregation of lots, blocks, sections, or phases.
PARK-AND-SELL LOT
An outdoor or indoor space where owners of motor vehicles
or watercraft display their motor vehicles and/or watercraft for sale
or trade.
PARKING LOT
A lot or portion thereof, used for the parking of transportation
vehicles but not including motor vehicles which have been dismantled
or wrecked or junked or for sale or parts thereof.
PARKING OF COMMERCIAL MOTOR VEHICLES
The parking on a regular basis of motor vehicles that are
commercially licensed and/or with business identification signs or
lettering, including magnetic signs. This definition does not include
the periodic parking of commercial motor vehicles on property for
the purpose of conducting business on that property (e.g., service
calls).
PATRON AREA
An indoor or outdoor area of an eating establishment or similar
use including but not limited to a tavern, nightclub, lunge, or bar
designated for use by customers and/or the general public for eating,
drinking, congregating, and/or waiting for service.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
PENNANTS
A triangular or irregular piece of fabric or other material,
whether or not containing a message of any kind, commonly attached
by strings or strands, or supported on small poles, intended to flap
in the wind.
[Added 1-31-2018]
PERENNIAL STREAM
A stream that has a visible base flow except during periods
of extreme drought. The hydrology is connected to the ground water
and flows without the presence of storm events. These streams are
determined by the identical methods as intermittent streams.
PERMANENT SIGN
A sign permitted by this ordinance to be located on the premises
for an unlimited period of time and designed to be permanently attached
to a structure or the ground.
[Added1-31-2018]
PERMITTED USE
A use allowed in a zoning district subject to the restrictions
applicable to that zoning district.
PERSON
An individual or group of individuals, receiver, trustee,
guardian, executor, administrator, fiduciary, or representative of
any kind, or any partnership, firm, association, public or private
corporation, or any of their affiliates, or any other entity, including
state and local governments and agencies.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
PERSONAL SERVICES
Premises in which services with respect to the grooming of
persons are conducted, including those of licensed massage therapists,
cosmetologists, estheticians, nail technicians and make-up artistry.
PETS, HOUSEHOLD
Any companion animals that have been bred and raised to live
in or about the habitation of humans and may be permitted in the house,
such as dogs, cats, pot-bellied pigs, rabbits, ferrets, domestic rodents,
birds, fish, non-venomous reptiles and amphibians.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
PETS, LIVESTOCK (KEPT ON NON-FARM PROPERTIES)
Livestock such as horses, cows, sheep, swine, goats, llamas,
alpacas, or poultry that are kept on a non-farm property as pets rather
than for their productive value.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
PHASED DEVELOPMENT
Commercial (non-residential) development of a recorded lot
or parcel in Town Center, Employment Center/Town Center, Light Industrial,
Marine Commercial, or Rural Commercial Zoning in which one specified
area of the site is developed before other areas.
PHYSIOGRAPHIC FEATURES
The soils, topography, land slope and aspect, and local climate
that influence the form and species composition of plant communities.
PIER
Any marine structure generally referred to as a pier, dock
or wharf, including pilings and other such facilities, used for the
wet storage of watercraft.
PLANT HABITAT
A community of plants commonly identifiable by the composition
of its vegetation and its physiographic characteristics.
PORT
A facility or area established or designated by the State
or local jurisdictions for purposes of waterborne commerce.
PORTABLE SIGN
A sign that is capable of being transported because of being
lighter and smaller in size. Examples: A-Frame and T-Frame signs.
[Amended 1-31-2018]
POWER GENERATING FACILITY, COMMERCIAL
A generator that uses one or more sources and/or products
for the production of power for sale. Types of power generating facilities
include but are not limited to petroleum, methane, ethanol, thermal,
wind, solar, nuclear and hydroelectric.
[Amended 8-5-2013]
POWER GENERATING FACILITY, QUALIFIED COMMERCIAL
A Commercial Power Generating Facility as to which a certificate
of public convenience and necessity has been issued under Public Utility
Companies Article, Section(s) 7-205, 7-207 and/or 7-208, Annotated
Code of Maryland, as amended from time to time.
[Amended 7-27-2006]
PRE-EXISTING TOWERS AND PRE-EXISTING ANTENNAS
Any tower or antenna for which a special exception and/or
a building permit has been issued prior to the effective date of these
regulations (December 4, 2001), including permitted towers or antennas
that have not yet been constructed so long as such approval has not
expired.
PRELIMINARY APPROVAL
The approval of a minor or major subdivision by the Planning
Commission or its designee. Preliminary approval is required prior
to final approval.
PRELIMINARY SUBDIVISION PLAN
A drawing prepared for the overall planning of a proposed
subdivision in accordance with Section 7-1.07.B of this Ordinance.
PREMISE
A house, building, or structure and the land on which it
is located.
PREMISE ADDRESS
The number assigned by the Planning Commission or its designee
to identify the official address of a property. The Premise Address
is assigned using the Grid Address Numbering System.
PRIORITY FUNDING AREA (PFA)
A designation created by the State of Maryland in the 1997
Priority Funding Areas Act (Smart Growth Act); geographic growth areas
defined under state law (§ 5-7B-02 and § 5-7B-03
of the State Finance and Procurement Article of the Annotated Code
of Maryland) and designated by the local jurisdiction for targeting
state investment in infrastructure such as roads, water and sewer
facilities, and economic development.
[Added 3-1-2017 by Ord.
No. 08-17]
PRIVATE LANE
A private right-of-way, for the purpose of providing access
to no less than three single-family residential lots and no more than
seven (7) single-family residential lots.
[Amended 4-26-2017 by Ord. No. 15-17]
PRODUCE
Agricultural products such as vegetables and fruits. For
purposes of this Ordinance, produce includes flowers, vegetable seedlings,
potted plants, jellies, jams, honey, pickles, butter and eggs, etc.
PROJECT APPROVALS
The approval of development, other than development by a
State or local government agency, in the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area
by the appropriate local approval authority. The term includes approval
of subdivision plats and site plans; inclusion of areas with floating
zones; issuance of variances, special exceptions, and conditional
use permits; and issuance of zoning permits. The term does not include
building permits.
PROJECT PLAN
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, a construction,
grading, or sediment control activity on areas of 40,000 square feet
or greater, by a local or State agency.
PROJECT ROAD
Any non-dedicated right-of-way used within an apartment,
commercial, industrial, trailer or Manufactured Home Rental Community
along which house numbers are assigned.
PROJECTING SIGN
A sign that is affixed to a building or wall and extends
more than eighteen (18) inches beyond the face of such building or
wall. A projecting sign shall also include a sign hung under an arcade.
[Added 1-31-2018]
PROPERTY
A building, structure or parcel of land or the combination
thereof.
PROPERTY OWNER
A person holding title to a property or two or more persons
holding title to a property under any form of joint ownership.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
PUBLIC CEMETERY
A public cemetery is one used by the general community, a
neighborhood, or a church, while a private cemetery is one used only
by a family or a small portion of the community. However, actual public
use rather than ownership determines whether a cemetery is public.
[Added 11-30-2022 by Ord. No. 47-22]
PUBLIC NOTICE
The advertisement of a public hearing in accordance with
legal requirements indicating the time, place and nature of the public
hearing.
PUBLIC SEWER
A Community, Shared or Multiuse sewerage system.
[Added 8-5-2015 by Ord.
No. 31-15]
PUBLIC UTILITY LINES & ACCESSORY STRUCTURES
Underground gas mains and pipes and underground and overhead
electrical and communications wires, cables, pipes, conduits, and
their supporting poles, towers or repeaters, boosters, anodes, regulating
and measuring devices, and the minor buildings or structures in which
they may be housed, including but not limited to substations for transforming,
boosting, switching or pumping purposes, where such facilities are
constructed on the ground. This definition does not include other
uses defined separately by this Ordinance (e.g., Commercial Power
Generating Facility, Communications Tower, etc.).
[Amended 8-7-2007]
QUASI-GOVERNMENT
Agencies substantially supported by the government, i.e.,
Calvert County Housing Authority.
[Added 12-7-2016]
RACEWAY
An elongated metal enclosure used to mount individual channel
lettering and/or to conceal related transformers and wiring for wall-mounted
signs.
[Added 1-31-2018]
READER BOARD
A sign or portion of a sign where it is possible to change
the copy on a frequent basis but where such sign change must be manually
made and is not made electronically.
[Amended 9-22-2009; 1-31-2018]
REAL ESTATE SIGN
A sign pertaining to the sale or lease of the premises, or
a portion of the premises, on which the sign is located.
REAR LOT LINE
The lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot
line. On a corner lot the rear lot line is determined by the orientation
of the house.
REAR YARD
A space extending across the full width of the lot between
any building, structure or use and the rear lot line, and measured
perpendicular from the building, structure or use to the closest point
of the rear lot line.
RECLAMATION
The rehabilitation of disturbed land for useful purposes,
and the protection of the natural resources of adjacent areas, including
waterbodies.
RECONFIGURATION
A change of the configuration of an existing lot or parcel
line of any legal parcel of land or recorded legally buildable lot.
"Reconfiguration" includes a lot line adjustment, a boundary line
adjustment, and a replatting.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
RECORD PLAT
The final plat of a subdivision that is recorded in the Land
Records of Calvert County.
RECREATION FACILITY, INDOOR
An entirely enclosed building or facility which offers commercial
indoor sports activities including but not limited to tennis, batting
cages, bowling, skating, racquetball, arcade games, volleyball, basketball,
indoor soccer, martial arts, miniature golf, paint ball, laser tag
or similar activities. This use may include associated accessory eating
and drinking areas, retail sales areas and staff offices.
RECREATION FACILITY, INDOOR COMMERCIAL: BINGO HALL
Premises used for the purposes of playing a game of chance
in which players place markers on a pattern of numbered cards according
to numbers drawn, announced or displayed either electronically or
by a caller, in which money and/or prizes are wagered. This definition
does not include player-operated video lottery terminals or slot machines.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
RECREATION FACILITY, INDOOR COMMERCIAL: STUDIO
Premises used principally for the production of arts and
craft products using paint, clay, fabric, metal or other medium and
may include accessory sales, display and exhibition of arts and craft
products.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
RECREATION FACILITY, INDOOR COMMERCIAL: STUDIO, PERFORMING ARTS
A facility, catering to more than three students at a time,
that contains specialized equipment and other support services for
the study and training of performing arts, including but not limited
to dance, voice, theatre or music, and may include accessory sales,
displays and exhibits.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
RECREATION FACILITY, OUTDOOR
An area or structure that offers commercial entertainment
or recreation where any portion of the activity takes place outside.
This includes but is not limited to a golf driving range, batting
cages, riding arenas and corrals, racquet sports, miniature golf,
paint ball, archery range, or similar activities. This use may include
associated accessory eating and drinking areas, retail sales areas
and staff offices. This definition does not include motorized vehicle
sports such as go-car tracks, dirt bike trails and all-terrain vehicle
trails.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A vehicle that is built on a single chassis, 400 square feet
or less when measured at the largest horizontal projection, designed
to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty truck,
and designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling, but as
temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal
use. These vehicles include but are not limited to travel trailers,
truck campers, camping trailers and self-propelled motor homes.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
REDEVELOPMENT
The process of developing land which is or has been developed.
REFORESTATION (OR REFORESTED)
The establishment of a forest through artificial reproduction
or natural regeneration in areas that were previously cleared. More
specifically and relative to the Forest Conservation Program:
(1)
Creation of a biological community dominated by trees and other
woody plants containing at least 100 live trees per acre, with at
least 50 percent of those trees having the potential of attaining
a two-inch or greater diameter measured at four-and-a-half feet above
the ground, within seven years;
(2)
The establishment of a forest according to procedures set forth
in the Maryland Forest Conservation Technical Manual and
(3)
landscaping of areas under an approved landscaping plan establishing
a forest at least 35 feet wide and covering an area of 2,500 square
feet or more.
REGULATED ACTIVITY
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, any of the following
activities when that activity occurs on a unit of land which is 20,000
square feet or greater: Subdivision; Grading; An activity that requires
a sediment control permit; or Project plan of a State or local agency.
REGULATION
A rule or order, including maps and plans, having the force
of law issued by an executive authority of a government.
RENEWABLE RESOURCE
A resource that can renew or replace itself and, therefore,
with proper management, can be harvested indefinitely.
RENTAL FACILITIES ON FARMS
Facilities or areas on farms that are available for rent
for private events such as weddings, company picnics, or private parties.
REPLATTING
The process of review, approval, and recording of a plat
which shows changes to an existing recorded lot or parcel.
RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT FACILITY
A facility containing operations engaged in scientific research
and investigation, the development of prototype products for test
and evaluation, and/or the assembly or manufacture of prototype products.
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY
A parcel of record that is improved by a one- or two-family
structure occupied as a residence. "Residential Property" does not
include a farm.
[Added 1-31-2018]
RESIDUE
The portion of a lot remaining after the creation of a minor
or major subdivision.
[Amended 8-28-2007]
RESOURCE CONSERVATION AREA (RCA)
Those areas in the Critical Area characterized by nature
dominated environments (that is, wetlands, forests, abandoned fields)
and resource utilization activities (that is, agriculture, forestry,
fisheries activities, or aquaculture). These areas are designated
on the Critical Area Map as RCA.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
RESUBDIVISION
The further subdivision of an existing recorded subdivision
for additional lots and/or roads.
RETAIL
The sale, rental, or leasing of goods or commodities directly
to the public.
RETAIL COMMERCIAL BUILDING
A building that houses a commercial retail establishment
that either stands alone or is connected to other buildings by a common
wall having no entrances or exits. A commercial retail building may
include more than one retail establishment and/or service.
RETAIL COMMERCIAL BUILDING WITH DRIVE-UP FACILITY
A commercial retail building that includes a structure or
part of a structure designed to accommodate patrons' motor vehicles,
from which the occupants of the motor vehicle may make purchases or
transact business. This definition includes Eating Establishments
with Drive-up Facilities within a Retail Commercial Building.
[Amended 1-10-2017 by Ord. No. 03-17]
RETENTION
The deliberate holding and protecting of existing trees,
shrubs or plants on the site according to established standards as
provided in the Maryland Forest Conservation Technical Manual.
RETREAT, DAY
A facility designed with the specific intent of facilitating
spiritual and/or educational enrichment needs and that may include
supporting dining, and recreational facilities as accessory uses without
overnight accommodations.
REVETMENT
An assemblage of stones or concrete, commonly known as riprap,
placed to prevent shore erosion, fortify a bulkhead, or stabilize
an embankment.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
REZONE
To change the zoning district classification of particular
lots or parcels of land.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
(1)
A strip of land acquired by reservation, dedication, forced
dedication, prescription or condemnation and intended to be occupied
or currently occupied by a road, crosswalk, railroad, electric transmission
lines, oil or gas pipeline, water line, sanitary storm sewer and other
similar uses;
(2)
Generally, the right of one to pass over the property of another.
RIGHT-OF-WAY, PUBLIC
Any street, avenue, boulevard, highway, alley or similar
place which is owned or controlled by a governmental entity.
[Amended 3-30-2012]
RIPARIAN HABITAT
A habitat that is strongly influenced by water and which
occurs adjacent to streams, shorelines, and wetlands.
RIPARIAN LAND
Land that is traversed or bounded by a natural watercourse
or adjoining tidal lands.
ROAD
(1)
A vehicular way constructed within a public or private right-of-way
(a.k.a. avenue, drive, circle, street, highway, thoroughfare or other
similar terms, but not driveways, lanes, or alleys).
(2)
When applying setbacks, the term road refers to the right-of-way.
Setbacks shall be measured from the edge of the right-of-way unless
other means of measurement are specified.
ROAD DIRECTION
Relative to the premise addressing system, the direction
any road travels the longest in the distance.
ROAD IN THE CRITICAL AREA
A public thoroughfare under the jurisdiction of the State,
a County, a municipal corporation or any other public body. Road does
not include a drive aisle or driveway.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
ROOF PITCH
The ratio of rise to run of roof slope.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, FALSE MANSARD
An architectural feature added to a structure that is primarily
decorative and serves only to hide a flat roof and/or equipment on
the roof, or to provide a crawl space attic over an upper story.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, GABLE
A sloping (ridged) roof that terminates at one or both ends
in a gable.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, GAMBREL
A gabled roof that peaks at the ridgeline then falls away
in a broad, low slope, breaks horizontally and changes to a steeper
pitch. A gambrel roof has a broad upper story and side facade, and
is often associated with barns.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, GREEN
A roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation
and soil, or a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, HABITABLE
A roof containing space for human occupancy or use.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, HIPPED
A roof with slopes on all four sides.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, MANSARD
A hipped roof with two distinct roof pitches, low-sloped
from the flat top or ridgeline, with the lower slope much steeper
than the upper.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
ROOF, SHED
A gabled roof with a single roof face falling away from the
main building. Shed roofs are often used for porches, additions, and
raised-roof sections.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
RUBBLE
Demolition debris associated with the razing of buildings,
roads, bridges and other structures including structural steel, concrete,
bricks, lumber, plaster and plasterboard, sheet rock, insulation material,
cement, shingles and roofing materials, floor and wall tile, asphalt,
pipes and wires, and other items physically attached to structures,
including appliances.
SALVAGE AND/OR JUNK YARD
Any land, building, or vehicle used for the abandonment,
sale, storage, collection, or baling of paper, scrap metal, other
scrap or discarded materials, or for the abandonment, dismantling,
processing, or sale of motor vehicles or other vehicles or for the
abandonment of machinery, or parts thereof.
SAND, GRAVEL OR MINERAL EXTRACTION (NO PROCESSING)
The operations necessary to excavate, stockpile, or remove
materials such as sand, gravel, aggregate, rock or other mineral resources.
The retail, wholesale, contract purchase, or transfer of mineral products
is within the scope of this definition. For purposes of this title,
the leveling, grading, filling, or removal of materials during the
course of normal site preparation for an approved use (e.g. residential
subdivision, commercial development, etc.) does not constitute a mining
site/operation, if: processing of the material does not occur on the
property; does not occur over an extended period of time, and on-site
stockpiles are fully depleted; and, a mining permit is not required.
SAND, GRAVEL OR MINERAL EXTRACTION AND PROCESSING
The operations necessary to excavate, stockpile, or remove
materials such as sand, gravel, aggregate, rock or other mineral resources.
Includes the cleaning, mixing, sorting, washing, and other processing
of this material including cement mixing. Does not include the manufacture
of asphalt (see definition of asphalt plant). The retail, wholesale,
contract purchase, or transfer of mineral products is within the scope
of this definition. For purposes of this title, the leveling, grading,
filling, or removal of materials during the course of normal site
preparation for an approved use (e.g. residential subdivision, commercial
development, etc.) does not constitute a mining site/operation, if:
processing of the material does not occur on the property; on-site
stockpiles are fully depleted; and, a mining permit is not required.
SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA
An antenna in the shape of a shallow dish, used to receive
communications (television and otherwise) from orbiting satellites
or ground transmitters.
SAWMILL, COMMERCIAL
An indoor or outdoor facility where timber or logs are sawn
into lumber or boards.
SAWMILL, PORTABLE
A small, self-contained sawmill that is moved to the site
where the timber is to be sawn and then moved on to another location.
This use does not include those permitted under "Forest Product Processing".
SCENIC LANDSCAPE
A geographic area with landscape patterns and features, including
but not limited to properties such as landform, land cover, slope
and land use, arising from natural and/or cultural processes, which
are visually or aesthetically pleasing or otherwise unique and which,
therefore, contribute affirmatively to the definition of a distinct
community or region within the County.
SEASONAL USE
A use carried on for only a part of the year such as the
sale of vegetables during the summer months.
SEASONAL RETAIL SALES OR DISPLAY AREA, OUTDOOR
The use of space outside of a retail commercial building
for the sale and/or display of temporary seasonal retail items (e.g.,
fireworks stands, Christmas tree sales, etc.). This definition does
not include outdoor storage for the retail commercial business.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
SEASONAL RETAIL SALES
Temporary sales conducted for a period not exceeding 90 days
in a calendar year.
[Amended 7-12-2013]
SEAT
The number of devices for seating individual persons or the
number of spaces allocated for seating individuals (but not less than
24 linear inches) in multi-person seating units (i.e. benches, pews,
etc.).
[Added 12-21-2014 by Ord.
No. 47-14]
SEDIMENT CONTROL PERMIT
The authorization of an activity regulated under a sediment
control plan as provided in the Environment Article, Title 4, Annotated
Code of Maryland.
SEEDLINGS
A woody plant, less than 24 inches in height and having a
diameter of less than one-half inch measured at two inches above the
root collar.
SELECTION
The removal of single, scattered, mature trees or other trees
from uneven-aged stands by frequent and periodic cutting operations.
SELECTIVE CLEARING
The removal of trees, shrubs, and plants using specific standards
and protection measured under an approved Forest Conservation Plan
or Forest Management Plan while maintaining a portion of the original
vegetation.
SERVICE ROAD
A road paralleling and contiguous to a major thoroughfare
designed primarily to promote safety by providing free access to adjoining
property and limited access to major thoroughfares.
SETBACK
The minimum distance by which any building, structure, or
use must be separated from a road right-of-way, lot line, or Zoning
District boundary unless other means of measurement are specified,
or the point from which the measurement is to be determined, is otherwise
specified.
[Amended 3-25-2008]
SHARED FACILITY, SEWERAGE
A sewerage system that: serves more than one lot of land
or more than one user on a single lot of land with water or sewerage
systems located on the individual lots or on parcels owned in common
by the users or the controlling authority.
[Added 8-5-2015 by Ord.
No. 31-15]
SHOPPING CENTER
A group of commercial buildings planned, constructed and
managed as a total entity with customer and employee parking provided
on-site.
SHORE EROSION PROTECTION WORKS
Those structures or measures constructed or installed to
prevent or minimize erosion of the shoreline in the Critical Area.
SHORELINE
For the purposes of determining lateral lines, the line as
shown on the applicable Zoning Map for Harbor Lines defining the landward
limit of the waterway. For all other purposes, the shoreline is determined
by the mean high water line.
SIDE YARD
A space extending from the front yard to the rear yard between
any building, structure or use and the side lot line measured perpendicular
from the side lot line to the closest point of the building, structure
or use.
SIGN
Any object, device, display or structure or part thereof
situated outdoors or adjacent to the interior of a window or doorway
which is used to advertise, identify, display, direct or attract attention
to an object, person, institution, organization, business, product,
service, event or location by any means including words, letters,
pictures, logos, figures, designs, symbols, fixtures, colors, illumination
or projected images.
[Amended 1-31-2018]
SIGN AREA
The entire face of a sign including the advertising surface
and any framing, but not including the supporting structure.
SIGN HEIGHT
The maximum vertical distance of a sign (including the structure
containing the sign) as measured from the average elevation of the
finished grade at the front of the sign and/or structure facing the
street to the highest point of the sign and/or structure.
[Amended 6-3-2008]
SIGN STRUCTURE
Any structure designed for the support of a sign.
[Added 1-31-2018]
SITE
Any plot or parcel of land or combination of contiguous lots
or parcels of land.
SITE PLAN
The development plan for one or more lots on which is shown
the existing and proposed conditions of the lot including: topography,
vegetation, drainage, floodplains, marshes and waterways; open spaces,
walkways, means of ingress and egress, utility services, landscaping,
structures and signs, lighting, and screening devices; any other information
that reasonably may be required in order that an informed decision
can be made by the approving authority.
SLIP
Berthing arrangement for a single vessel.
SLOPE
The deviation of a surface from the horizontal, usually expressed
in percent or degrees.
SMALL SHRUB
A shrub that, when mature, reaches a height no greater than
6 feet.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
SOLAR PANEL
A device that collects and inverts solar energy into electricity
or heat.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
SOLID WASTE
Unwanted or discarded material, including garbage with insufficient
liquid content to be free flowing.
SPECIAL EXCEPTION
A grant of a specific use that would not be appropriate generally
or without restriction. Approval of a special exception is based upon
a finding that certain conditions as detailed in the Zoning Ordinance
are met, that the use conforms to the Comprehensive Plan and is compatible
with the existing neighborhood.
SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA (SFHA)
The land in the floodplain subject to a one-percent or greater
chance of flooding in any given year. Special flood hazard areas are
designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Flood Insurance
Studies and on Flood Insurance Rate Maps as Zones A, AE, AH, AO, A1-30,
and A99, and Zones VE and V1-30. The term includes areas shown on
other flood maps that are specifically listed or otherwise described
in Section 1.5.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
SPECIES IN NEED OF CONSERVATION
Those fish and wildlife whose continued existence as part
of the State's resources are in question and which may be designated
by regulation by the Secretary of Natural Resources as in need of
conservation pursuant to the requirements of Natural Resources Article,
10-2A-06 and 4-2A-03, Annotated Code of Maryland.
SPECIMEN TREES
Trees having a diameter, measured at 4.5 feet above the ground,
of 30 inches or more, or trees having 75 percent or more of the diameter
of the current state champion tree for that species.
[Amended 3-1-2017 by Ord.
No. 08-17]
SPOIL PILE
The overburden and reject materials as piled or deposited
during surface mining.
SPORTS PRACTICE FIELDS ON A FARM
Farm fields provided for non-motorized field games or sports
including, but not limited to, soccer, football, volleyball, lacrosse,
baseball, softball, and t-ball.
START OF CONSTRUCTION
The date the building permit was issued, provided the actual
start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition
placement, or other improvement was within 180 days of the permit
date. The actual start means either the first placement of permanent
construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab
or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns,
or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a
manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not
include land preparation, such as clearing, grading and filling; nor
does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does
it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers, or foundations
or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation
on the property of accessory structures, such as garages or sheds
not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure.
For substantial improvements, the actual start of construction means
the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural
part of a building, whether or not that alteration affects the external
dimensions of the building.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
STATIC/INSTANT MESSAGE CHANGE
On electronic message centers, a static or instant message
change is when one message changes to another message instantly without
rotating, scrolling, fading, dissolving, blinking, audio, pyrotechnic
or flashing elements or other movement of the message.
[Added 1-31-2018]
STEEP SLOPES
Within the Critical Area: Slopes 15 percent or greater. Outside
the Critical Area: 25 percent or greater slopes. Slopes greater than
50 percent are defined as Cliffs See: Cliff
STOP WORK ORDER
A notice issued by the Zoning Officer, or other designated
official, that directs the owner to cease work that was undertaken
without proper permits or approval.
STORAGE OF MACHINERY & EQUIPMENT IN CONNECTION WITH EXCAVATING
AND/OR CONTRACTING BUSINESS
Implements commonly used in association with site preparation
and/or building construction including, but not limited to, bulldozers,
front-end loaders, backhoes, tank trucks and/or trailers, trenchers,
tar boilers, cement mixers, dump-bed trucks and/or trailers, graders,
street sweepers, snowplow blades, flat-bed trucks and/or trailers,
large riding mowers, and paving equipment. Implements may be self-propelled,
trailered, towed, dragged, pushed, or pulled. Does not include hand
tools or walk-behind equipment such as small mowers or tillers.
STORAGE, OUTDOOR
See: Outdoor Storage in Connection with Commercial and/or
Industrial Uses
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
(1)
For quantitative control, a system of vegetative and structural
measures that control the increased volume and mate of surface runoff
caused by man-made changes to the land; and
(2)
For qualitative control, a system of vegetative, structural,
and other measures that reduces or eliminates pollutants that might
otherwise be carried by surface runoff.
STREAM RESTORATION PROJECT
An activity that:
[Added 3-1-2017 by Ord.
No. 08-17]
(a)
|
Is designed to stabilize stream banks or enhance stream function
or habitat located within an existing stream waterway, or floodplain;
|
(b)
|
Avoids and minimizes impacts to forest and provides for replanting
on-site an equivalent number of trees to the number removed by the
project;
|
(c)
|
May be performed under a municipal separate storm sewer system
permit, a watershed implementation plan growth offset, or another
plan administered by the local government to achieve or maintain water
quality standards; and
|
(d)
|
Is not performed to satisfy stormwater management, wetlands
mitigation, or any other regulatory requirement associated with proposed
development activity.
|
STRUCTURE
A combination of building materials that are purposely joined
together on, above or below the surface of the land or water including
those that do not result in lot coverage, including a gas or liquid
storage tank that is principally above ground, as well as a manufactured
home.
[Amended 5-4-2010; 12-14-2011]
STRUCTURAL ALTERATION
Any change in either the supporting members of a building,
such as bearing walls, columns, beams and girders, or in the dimensions
or configurations of the roof or exterior walls.
STRUCTURE FOR THE KEEPING OF ANIMALS (ON NON-FARM PROPERTIES)
An accessory building or structure designed and used to contain
animals. Such structures include, but are not limited to, dog houses
or pens, rabbit pens, or aviaries. This definition does not apply
to structures for the keeping of animals on farms. See: Farm Building
SUBDIVISION ENTRANCE
See entrance definition in the Calvert County Road Ordinance.
[Amended 1-31-2018]
SUBDIVISION SIGN
A sign placed at the entrance of subdivisions from State
or County highways.
[Amended 6-3-2008; 1-31-2018]
SUBSTANTIAL ALTERATION
A repair, reconstruction, replacement or improvement of a
principal structure, with a proposed total footprint that is at least
50 percent greater than that of the structure that is the subject
of the alteration.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
SUBSTANTIAL CONSTRUCTION
A building shall be considered to have substantial construction
if over 50 percent of the square footage is under roof and enclosed.
SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE
Damage of any origin sustained by a building or structure
whereby the cost of restoring the building or structure to its before
damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value
of the building or structure before the damage occurred. Also used
as "substantially damaged" structures. [Note: See "Substantial Improvement/Substantial
Damage Desk Reference" (FEMA P-758).]
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord.
No. 43-14]
SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT
Any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other improvement
of a building or structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50
percent of the market value of the building or structure before the
start of construction of the improvement. The term includes structures
which have incurred substantial damage, regardless of the actual repair
work performed. The term does not, however, include either:
[Amended 12-14-2011; 11-10-2014 by Ord.
No. 43-14]
(1)
Any project for improvement of a building or structure to correct
existing violations of State or local health, sanitary, or safety
code specifications which have been identified by the local code enforcement
official prior to submission of an application for a permit and which
are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions; or
(2)
Any alteration of a historic structure feature, provided that
the alteration will not preclude the structure's continued designation
as a historic structure feature.
[Note: See "Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk
Reference" (FEMA P-758).]
|
SURETY
A surety includes, but is not limited to, a Certificate of
Guarantee as defined in Section 1-203 of the Insurance Article of
the Annotated Code of Maryland.
TARGET RANGE, INDOOR
A building that is used for the purpose of organized shooting
events or practice using, rifles, shotguns, pistols, etc.
TARGET RANGE, INSTITUTIONAL
A target range which may be either indoor or outdoor unless
located in a Town Center where the use may only be permitted indoors
for the purpose of training law enforcement or military forces such
as National Guard.
[Amended 6-17-2014]
TARGET RANGE, OUTDOOR
A permanently located and improved area that is designed
and operated for the use of rifles, shotguns, pistols, silhouettes,
skeet, trap, black powder or any other similar sport shooting in an
outdoor environment, but does not permit the use of air guns or paintball
guns.
TAVERN, BAR
An establishment, either open to the public or operated as
a private club, where more than 50 percent of the total sales are
from the sale of alcohol, and which may or may not include the sale
of food or other beverages, but which does not include areas for entertainment
and/or dancing.
[Amended 9-22-2009
TEMPORARY SIGN
Any sign which is movable, not permanently attached to the
ground, a structure or other sign, designed or constructed in such
a manner that it can be moved or relocated without involving any structural
or support changes, intended for a limited period of display or constructed
out of cloth, canvas, plastic sheet, cardboard or other like materials.
[Added 1-31-2018]
TEMPORARY STRUCTURE INCIDENTAL TO SCHOOLS (CLASSROOM RELOCATABLES)
A structure containing one or more rooms, each of which is
designed, intended, and equipped for use as a place for formal instruction
of pupils by a teacher in a school, not constructed with a permanent
foundation and which shall not remain permanently on the site. To
be considered temporary in a special flood hazard area, the structure
must be removed within 180 days of its installation, use or erection.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
TENANT
An occupant of land or premises who occupies, uses, and enjoys
real property for a fixed time, usually through a lease arrangement
with the property owner.
TENANT HOUSE
A farm dwelling, other than the main farm house, for occupancy
by a person or family associated with the operation of the farm.
T-FRAME SIGN
A portable sign which is ordinarily in the shape of an upside
down "T" or some variation thereof, which is readily movable and is
not permanently attached to the ground or any structure. As distinguished
from "A-frame sign."
[Added 1-31-2018]
THINNING
A forest practice of removing trees to accelerate growth
of remaining trees in the shortest interval of time.
THREATENED SPECIES
Any species of fish, wildlife, or plants designated as such
by regulation by the Secretary of the Department of Natural Resources
which appear likely, with the foreseeable future, to become endangered,
including any species of wildlife or plant determined to be a "threatened"
species pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act, 16 U.S.C.
153 et seq., as amended.
TIMBER HARVESTING
A tree-cutting operation affecting one or more acres of forest
or developed woodland within a one-year interval that disturbs 5,000
square feet or more of forest floor and does not include grubbing
and clearing of root mass.
TOPOGRAPHY
The existing configuration of the earth's surface including
the relative relief, elevation, and position of land features.
TOWNHOUSE
A single-family attached dwelling unit in a row of at least
three such units. The land surrounding the units may be owned by the
townhouse owners or held and maintained in a condominium arrangement.
TRACT
Relative to the Forest Conservation Program, property or
unit of land subject to an application for a grading or sediment control
permit, subdivision approval, project plan approval, or areas subject
to this subtitle.
TRAILER
A structure standing on wheels, towed or hauled by another
vehicle and used for short-term human occupancy, carrying materials,
goods or objects, or as a temporary office (does not include manufactured
homes).
TRANSFER ZONE
An area in Calvert County where Transferable Development
Rights (TDRs) may be used to increase the residential density.
TRANSFERABLE DEVELOPMENT RIGHT (TDR)
The right a landowner in an Agricultural Preservation District
conveys to a person which permits that person to increase the density
of residential use of land.
TRANSITIONAL HABITAT
A plant community and physiographic features whose species
are adapted to the diverse and varying environmental conditions that
occur along the boundary that separates aquatic and terrestrial areas.
TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES
Anything that is built, installed, or established to provide
a means of transport from one place to another.
TREE
A large, branched woody plant having one or several self-supporting
stems or trunks that is capable of reaching a height of at least 16
feet at maturity.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
TREE CANOPY
The aerial branches of terrestrial plants, together with
their complement of leaves or needles.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
TREE DIAMETER
The diameter of a tree trunk measured at four-and-a-half
feet above the ground.
TREE DRIP LINE
An imaginary line projected to the ground delineating the
outermost extent of tree foliage in all directions.
[Amended 9-22-2009]
TRIBUTARY STREAMS
Perennial or intermittent streams within the Critical Area
that have been identified by site inspection or in accordance with
County program procedures approved by the Critical Area Commission.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
TRIPLEX
A residential building on a permanent foundation consisting
of three dwelling units, each of which has primary ground floor access
to the outside and which are attached to each other.
TRUCK TERMINAL
A facility where truck transport goods are transferred or
stored pending transfer, and which may include truck dispatching,
parking and servicing and temporary (not more than 24 hours) accommodation
for truck drivers.
TRUCK, BUS AND DIESEL SERVICE AND REPAIR SHOP
An establishment that repairs heavy equipment such as trucks,
construction equipment, diesel engines and similar heavy equipment.
Typical uses include truck and bus repair garages, excavation implement
service, diesel engine repair, and shops related to the machining
of related parts, but specifically excluding the dismantling or salvaging
of vehicles.
UNDERSTORY TREE
A tree that, when mature, reaches a height of 12 to 35 feet.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
UNWARRANTED HARDSHIP
That without a variance, an applicant would be denied reasonable
and significant use of the entire parcel or lot for which the variance
is requested.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
UPLAND BOUNDARY
The landward edge of a tidal wetland or a nontidal wetland.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
USE
The purpose or activity for which land or buildings are designed,
arranged, or intended, or for which land or buildings are occupied
or maintained.
USE AND OCCUPANCY PERMIT
A document issued by the proper authorities allowing the
occupancy or use of a building and certifying that the structure or
use has been constructed or will be used in compliance with all the
applicable County codes, ordinances and regulations.
USE, PRINCIPAL
See: Principal Building, Structure or Use.
[Added 12-21-2014 by Ord.
No. 47-14]
UTILITY TRANSMISSION FACILITIES
Fixed structures that convey or distribute resources, wastes,
or both, including, but not limited to, electric lines, water conduits,
and sewer lines.
VALUE-ADDED AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS
Goods produced on Calvert County farms that have been increased
in value or price at the post-harvest stage of production through
alterations in size, shape, appearance, or convenience.
VARIANCE
A modification of the density, bulk, or area requirements
or any other criteria specifically listed or referenced in Section
11-1 of the Zoning Ordinance where such modification will not be contrary
to the public interest and where owing to conditions peculiar to the
property, and not the results of any action taken by the applicant,
a literal enforcement of the Ordinance would result in unnecessary
hardship; granted by the Calvert County Board of Appeals.
[Amended 3-20-2012]
VEHICLE DISPLAY AREA
The area where vehicles for sale are parked inside of a building,
on any exterior designated area for display or an area designated
"adjacent to the right-of-way" as permitted by a Town Center zoning
ordinance.
[Added 12-21-2014 by Ord.
No. 47-14]
VEHICLE FERRY SERVICE
The point-to-point transport of passenger and commercial
vehicles aboard a waterborne vessel. May be either a public or private
service.
VEHICLE SIGN
Any sign permanently or temporarily attached to or placed
on a vehicle or trailer. Signs attached to a motor vehicle or trailer
shall include, without limitation, any signage painted on, physically
applied to, or otherwise affixed to the vehicle.
[Added 1-31-2018]
VESTED RIGHT
A right that is protected from legislative interference to
the extent that an applicant may develop a site plan without the plan
having to conform to changes to zoning and development regulations
enacted after conceptual or final approval as the case may be.
[Added 6-9-2020 by Ord. No. 14-20]
VETERINARY HOSPITAL OR CLINIC, LIVESTOCK
An animal shelter or a place where livestock is given medical
or surgical treatment and the boarding of animals is limited to short-term
care incidental to the medical use. Such use may include outdoor facilities
such as runs, pens, and walking areas.
[Amended 12-7-2016]
VIOLATION, FLOODPLAIN
Any construction or development in a special flood hazard
area that is being performed without an issued permit. The failure
of a building, structure, or other development for which a permit
is issued to be fully compliant with these regulations and the conditions
of the issued permit. A building, structure, or other development
without the required design certifications, the Elevation Certificate,
or other evidence of compliance required is presumed to be a violation
until such time as the required documentation is provided.
[Amended 12-14-2011]
WALL SIGN
A sign attached directly to an exterior wall of a building
and which does not extend more than eighteen (18) inches from nor
above the roof line or beyond the limits of the outside wall, with
the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the building wall.
Murals and other painted signs are considered wall signs pursuant
to this section.
[Added 1-31-2018]
WAREHOUSE
A structure used for the storage and/or distribution of products.
WASH PLANT
A facility where sand and gravel is washed during processing.
WATER AND SEWER SERVICE AREAS
Areas of the County designated by the Water and Sewerage
Plan as potential areas for service by a community or public water
or sewer system.
WATERCOURSE
The channel, including channel banks and bed, of nontidal
waters of the State.
[Amended 3-20-2012]
WATER DEPENDENT FACILITY
A facility or structure is water dependent if it cannot exist
outside the Critical Area Buffer and is dependent on the water by
reason of its intrinsic nature.
WATER-DEPENDENT ACTIVITIES
An activity is water-dependent if it cannot exist outside
the Critical Area Buffer and is dependent on the water by reason of
the intrinsic nature of its operation.
WATER-DEPENDENT FACILITY
A facility or structure is water dependent if it cannot exist
outside the Critical Area Buffer and is dependent on the water by
reason of its intrinsic nature.
[Amended 5-4-2010]
WATERFOWL
Birds which frequent and often swim in water, nest and raise
their young near water, and derive at least part of their food from
aquatic plants and animals.
WATERSHED
All land area drained by a particular creek, stream, river
or waterway at the smallest scale. Any developed area that drains
to a particular watershed is considered in that watershed whether
or not it is physically located in that watershed.
WATER-USE INDUSTRY
An industry that requires location near the shoreline because
it utilizes surface waters for cooling or other internal purposes.
WATERS OF THE STATE
See Environment Article, Title 5, Subtitle 1, Annotated Code
of Maryland.] Waters of the State include:
[Amended 12-14-2011]
(1)
Both surface and underground waters within the boundaries of
the State subject to its jurisdiction;
(2)
That portion of the Atlantic Ocean within the boundaries of
the State;
(3)
The Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries;
(4)
All ponds, lakes, rivers, streams, public ditches, tax ditches,
and public drainage systems within the State, other than those designed
and used to collect, convey, or dispose of sanitary sewage; and
(5)
The floodplain of free-flowing waters determined by MDE on the
basis of the 100-year flood frequency.
WATERWAY
Any water area providing access from one place to another,
principally a water area providing a regular route for water traffic,
that is owned, managed or controlled by the State or under the jurisdiction
of the County either in incorporated or unincorporated territory.
WETLANDS
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. (Man-made
stormwater management devices and sediment control devices are not
included under this definition.)
WETLANDS BUFFER
A naturally vegetated area or vegetated area established
or managed to protect wetlands from man-made disturbances.
WETLANDS OVERLAY
Those lands both within and outside the Critical Area which
exhibit hydrologic, soil, and vegetation characteristics sufficient
to qualify as jurisdictional wetlands according to State and/or Federal
requirements.
WHIP
An unbranched woody plant greater than 24 inches in height
and having a diameter of less than one inch measured at two inches
above the root collar.
WHOLESALE
The sale, rental, or lease of goods or commodities to retailers
or other businesses. Does not include the sale, rental, or lease of
goods or commodities directly to the public.
WHOLESALE LUMBER AND/OR OTHER BUILDING MATERIALS
A business primarily engaged in sales to contractors of bulk
or large building materials including, but not limited to, lumber,
drywall, windows, doors, trusses, roofing, insulation, and masonry
materials.
WHOLESALING, INDOOR ONLY
Those uses primarily engaged in the sale of merchandise to
retailers; to industrial, commercial, institutional or professional
business users; or to other wholesalers. Wholesale or warehouse membership
clubs are considered to be a commercial retail use.
WILDLIFE CORRIDOR
A strip of land having vegetation that provides habitat and
a safe passageway for wildlife.
WILDLIFE HABITAT
Those plant communities and physiographic features that provide
food, water and cover, nesting, and foraging or feeding conditions
necessary to maintain populations of animals in the Critical Area.
WIND TURBINE
The part of a wind energy system that includes the blades,
generator and tail.
[Amended 10-13-2010]
WINDOW SIGN
Any sign viewable through and/or affixed in any manner to
a window or exterior glass door such that it is intended to be viewable
from the exterior including, but not limited to, window paintings
and signs located inside a building but visible primarily from the
outside of the building. This does not include merchandise and other
displays located in a window, or print intended to be viewable from
the interior of a building
[Added 1-31-2018]
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
Personal wireless services including cellular, personal communications
services (PCS), specialized mobile radio (SMR), enhanced specialized
mobile radio (ESMR), paging, and similar services that currently exist
or that may be developed in the future.
WORKFORCE HOUSING
Housing that is affordable (no more than 30% of median income)
to households of moderate income that is up to 80 percent of the median
income level for Calvert County as determined by Department of Housing
and Urban Development (HUD) statistics.
YARD SALE
See: Garage Sale, Yard Sale or Estate Sale
YARD SIGN
Any temporary sign placed on the ground or attached to a
supporting structure, posts or poles, that is not attached to any
building.
[Added 1-31-2018]
ZERO GRID
The horizontal and vertical lines specified on a map, which
are used as starting points for determining premise addresses.
ZONING INTERPRETATION
A formal, written determination of the proper application
of a Section of the Zoning Ordinance made by the Zoning Officer after
consultation with the County Attorney.
ZONING MAP
The official Zoning Maps of Calvert County adopted by the
Board of County Commissioners, together with all amendments thereto.
ZONING OFFICER
The administrative officer authorized to administer the Zoning
Ordinance, give zoning approval for permits, enforce the provisions
of this Zoning Ordinance, and clarify the intent of the Ordinance.
ZONING VIOLATION
Any use of property which is not in compliance with this
Ordinance. Also, A violation of this Ordinance occurs when there is
any work on property which requires approval of the Zoning Officer
or his designee and which has not been approved, or exceeds the scope
of, or is not in compliance with, any issued building or zoning permit.