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Chagrin River Watershed Partners, Inc. |
Riparian Setback Model Regulations
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Photo by: Meiring Borcherds |
Riparian setback regulations are designed to establish distances from water resources where building and other soil disturbing activities are prohibited unless the applicant obtains a variance from the local community. The specific purpose and intent of the model riparian setback regulations is to regulate uses and developments within riparian setback areas that would or could impair the ability of riparian areas to reduce flooding and pollutants, stabilize streambanks, prevent streambank erosion, and provide habitat and community character. The model riparian setback regulations is recommended as part of a community’s stormwater management program for flood control, erosion control, and water quality protection.
Why Riparian Setbacks?
Riparian areas are naturally vegetated lands along rivers and streams. When appropriately sized, these areas can limit streambank erosion, reduce flood size flows, filter and settle out pollutants, and protect aquatic and terrestrial habitat. Riparian setbacks are a tool local governments can use to maintain riparian area functions. Communities can establish riparian setbacks through a combination of landowner education, land acquisition, and land use controls on new development. County soil and water conservation districts, land trusts, and other organizations are skilled in assisting communities and landowners with education and acquisition efforts.
CRWP Model Riparian Setbacks Regulations
CRWP’s model riparian setbacks regulations recommend setbacks measured on all watercourses, including ephemeral streams. The riparian setback distances are measured from the ordinary high water mark of a stream – Where is the Ordinary High Water Mark of the River? (pdf 276KB) Setback widths vary from 25 to 300 feet from either side of the stream and are extended to the 100 year FEMA floodplain and to the edge of any wetlands in the riparian corridor.
It is important that communities develop a map of potential riparian setbacks to assist them in implementing the ordinance. Please contact CRWP for assistance in developing and tailoring this map to your community's needs.
It is hoped that this model regulation will be helpful to local governments in their efforts to provide effective stormwater management throughout the Chagrin River watershed. Please direct your requests for the model regulation and or any questions regarding the model regulations to CRWP at (440) 975-3870.
Riparian Setback Resources
Why Riparian Setbacks? (pdf 35KB)
Riparian Setbacks: Why That Width? (pdf 29KB)
Riparian Setbacks: Technical Information for Decision Makers (pdf 500KB)
Adoption Process for Best Land-Use Regulations (pdf 2MB)
Fact Sheet - Riparian & Wetland Setback Model Regulation Adoption Process (pdf 176KB)
Summary of Riparian & Wetland Setback Regulations in Ohio (pdf 40KB)
Community Riparian & Wetland Guidance (pdf 3.3 MB)
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