Encroachment by development into wetlands is not allowed without state and federal permits. It is state and federal policy that disturbance of wetlands shall be avoided. The applicant must demonstrate that no reasonable alternatives exist and the encroachment is the minimum necessary. The appropriate regulatory authorities may require mitigation.
Any land disturbance permitted in the floodplain zone must have a stormwater management and sediment and erosion control plan as required by state and local regulations. The plan must include design of land contours that will not increase surface water runoff onto neighboring properties. Ground cover must be established immediately after disturbance, and a plan for permanent plantings, including trees, should provide for adequate vegetative cover within the flood protection setback from watercourses to prevent erosion.
Development may not occur in the floodplain zone due to the inherent hazards and risks involved. Before a permit is issued, the applicant shall demonstrate that all new structures are located out of the floodplain zone. Fill or land disturbance shall not be permitted.
A minimum fifty-foot flood protection setback shall be maintained from the top of the bank of any stream which has no designated floodplain zone. Natural vegetation shall be maintained and, if needed, trees planted.
Any development permitted for necessary public works in the floodway which may result in any increase in water surface elevation or change to the floodway must be submitted to FEMA for a conditional letter of map revision. Hydrologic and hydraulic analyses based on existing floodway models and performed in accordance with standard engineering practices and certified by a registered professional engineer must be submitted. Failure to receive this letter shall be grounds for denial of the permit. An alternative analysis must be prepared for any public works development in the floodway before a permit may be issued which demonstrates that:
A. 
No reasonable alternatives exist outside the floodway;
B. 
Encroachment in the floodway is the minimum necessary;
C. 
The development will withstand the 100-year flood without significant damage; and
D. 
The development will not increase downstream or upstream flooding or erosion.