HomeMy WebLinkAboutRES-2012-018 Resolution Amending the 2030 Comprehensive Plan 02— 1'- /�
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Resolution #: P 1 y - C�1 S'
A RESOLUTION AMENDING
THE 2030 COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
WHEREAS, Orange County initiated an amendment to the Orange County
2030 Comprehensive Plan, in accordance with Section 2.3 of the Orange County
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), to correct inconsistencies in
terminologies and replace references to newly repealed ordinances, and
WHEREAS, the requirements of Section 2.3 of the Unified Development
Ordinance (UDO) have been deemed complete, and
WHEREAS, the Board finds that the text amendments maintain internal
consistency within the 2030 Comprehensive Plan in accordance with the
provisions of the Comprehensive Plan.
NOW THEREFORE BE /T RESOLVED by the Board of Commissioners of
Orange County, North Carolina, that the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, is hereby
amended as follows:
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Chapter 1: Plan Overview
amendment with the Comprehensive Plan and any other relevant plans (such
as a small area plan, a corridor plan, or a transportation plan) that have been
adopted by the Board of County Commissioners. The Board of County
Commissioners is also required to adopt a statement on plan consistency
before adopting or rejecting any zoning amendment. These written
comments are required, but do not limit the board's discretionary power to
adopt or not adopt zoning amendments.
The Orange County zing Unified Development Ordinance provides the
authorization and legal framework for development and adoption of a
comprehensive plan. The ordinance states that the plan "shall constitute an
internally consistent and compatible statement of policies for the long-term
physical development" of the County, and that the plan should include the
following elements (or chapters):
• Land Use Element;
• Transportation Element;
• Housing Element;
■ ., Natural and Cultural Systems Element);
• ., Parks and Recreation Element};
• Economic Development Element; and
• Services and Facilities Element-; and
■ County Profile (Data) Element.
The Planning Board is given the express power to develop and recommend
the Comprehensive Plan for adoption by the Board of County
Commissioners. Before the board can adopt the plan, a public hearing must
be held to provide an opportunity for the County's citizenry to comment on
the plan. The zoning ordinanee Unified Development Ordinance also
provides standards for amending the plan. (See Section 1.5.3:
Amendments.)
1.2.3. GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
Orange County is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners,
elected in partisan countywide elections. The primary duties of the board
include adopting an annual budget, establishing the annual property tax
rate, appointing various officials, planning for County needs, adopting local
plans, and enacting local ordinances. The board also has the authority to call
for bond referenda, enter into contracts, and establish new programs and
departments.
The board is advised by more than 40 different boards and commissions
comprised of Orange County citizens that volunteer for their positions.
Achieving the goals set by the County Commissioners is made possible
because of this citizen input into programs, services, and general
operations. Some of these boards have been established by state law and
their authority is defined in the North Carolina General Statutes. Others have
been created by the Orange County Board of County Commissioners to help
them set policies for specific areas of service.
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L a
Chapter 1: Plan Overview
1.4.2. DEVELOPMENT OF POLICY/STANDARDS AND
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Existing public policies, including the policies provided in the 1981 Orange
County Land Use Element (See Appendix D: 1981 Land Use Element Policies),
will remain in effect while additional specific policies, standards, and
implementation strategies of this 2008 Comprehensive Plan are being
developed and adopted.
Additional policies or revisions to existing policies may be added to the
Comprehensive Plan Elements on an incremental and case-by-case basis as
new programs are identified and authorized by the Board of County
Commissioners.
1.4.3. RECOMMENDED PROCESS FOR SETTING PRIORITIES
Advisory boards and staff should review Comprehensive Plan goals and
objectives on a regular basis and develop specific ideas on implementation
strategies for presentation to the Board of County Commissioners. Setting
priorities will be guided by the feasibility of accomplishing the strategies
within a given year.
Implementation strategies that are presented to the Board of County
Commissioners should identify the following:
• The corresponding Comprehensive Plan goal(s) and objective(s);
• Estimation of fiscal impacts and staff resources required to
implement the strategy;
• Identification of responsible department and advisory board(s) and
any contributing department(s) and advisory board(s) that will be
engaged in strategy implementation; and
• A timeline for implementation of the strategy.
The Board of County Commissioners will consider implementation strategies
submitted by advisory boards, consider fiscal constraints and opportunities,
and provide guidance to the County Manager on priorities for
implementation.
1.4.4. SUMMARY OF EXISTING IMPLEMENTATION TOOLS
The County has several implementation tools that may need to be revised as
new implementation strategies come on line in the County. These
implementation tools include the following:
■ Orange County Zoning Unified Development Ordinance;
• Building, plumbing, electrical, mechanical, fire and housing codes;
• Capital Improvement Plan; and
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ti r Chapter I: Plan Overview
■ Public Funding of Initiatives and Programs.
Additional implementation tools may be identified during development of
implementation strategies.
1.4.5. DECISIONS ON IMPLEMENTATION
The Board of County Commissioners will, as needed and appropriate,
prepare a work plan for Comprehensive Plan implementation strategies that
identifies strategies to be initiated in a given year, the human and financial
resources allocated to implementation of the strategies, and the parties
responsible for implementing the strategy.
1.5. MONITORING AND EVALUATION PROCEDURES
1.5.1. PURPOSE
The Comprehensive Plan is a "living" document. It should be revised and
updated regularly to ensure its relevance as the guiding document for
County decision-making. This chapter outlines procedures for ongoing
monitoring and updating of the Comprehensive Plan.
1.5.2. PLAN REVIEW AND EVALUATION
The following Plan review and evaluation procedures should be conducted
according to the timelines given:
1. A set of evaluation criteria, including a set of sustainability and
community building indicators, or metrics, together with specific
action statements will be developed for each Plan Element by each
Element Advisory Board with assistance of County staff within the
first year after plan adoption. The evaluation criteria may include
short-term (1-2 years), medium-term (3-5 years), and long-term (more
than 5 years) measurements. Combined, these evaluation criteria will
be used to inform periodic updates of the Plan. The evaluation
criteria will serve as a "Report Card" and will describe how and where
the County is making progress on implementation of the plan and
where additional attention may be needed.
2. Comprehensive Plan Element Status reports to the Board of County
Commissioners will be developed by respective Advisory Boards and
staff. Status reports will include a review and evaluation of Plan
goals and objectives using the evaluation criteria discussed above.
The report will be developed every other year beginning one year
after adoption of the Plan and will be delivered to the Board for
review at its annual retreat. A specific format for reporting will be
developed to maintain consistency in reporting.
3. The County Profile Element will be updated after data from the 2010
U.S. Census are available. Regular updates to the County Profile
Element should occur to reflect new U.S. Census data in subsequent
years.
4. Following the incorporation of 2010 data, a survey of County
departments will be undertaken by the Planning and Inspections
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Chapter 1; Plan Overview
Department to determine the usefulness of the County Profile
Element, and if annual updates would be beneficial.
5. A full review and update of the Comprehensive Plan will occur within
10 years of adoption of the plan, with a preliminary target of 2015.
1.5.3. AMENDMENTS
Monitoring and reporting activities will identify opportunities for updating
and revising the Plan. The Plan should be amended in a manner that
maintains internal consistency between Elements and upholds the basic
goals and objectives on which it was formulated.
Request for amendments can be brought forward by the general public,
County staff, and Advisory Boards, as well as the Board of County
Commissioners. Plan amendments should be evaluated through a public
review process.
The specific procedure for initiating Plan Amendments is outlined in Section
2.2.14 2.3 of the Orange County Zoning Unified Development Ordinance.
This procedure may need to be revised to reflect the new Comprehensive
Plan model that incorporates the work of Advisory Boards and departments.
In particular, the following issues should be considered for revision:
• Review and amendment of Section 222.14 2.3 of the Orange County
Zed Unified Development Ordinance to reflect the role of
advisory boards, in addition to that of the Planning Board, in the
amendment process.
• A process should be developed and adopted that guides the
coordinated dialogue of the advisory boards when making
recommendations on Plan amendments.
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Chapter 3: Economic Development Element
INVESTING IN INNOVATION: THE ORANGE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
COMMISSION'S FIVE YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN 12005-2010)
The Orange County Economic Development Commission commenced a strategic
planning process in 2002 to guide future efforts of the organization. The result of
this multi-year planning effort is a five year strategic plan with the overarching
goal to "create 5,000 new private sector jobs in Orange County and add
$125,000,000 in new commercial property by June 2010." Four key areas for
improvement were identified:
• Improved Business Climate to enable businesses to create the
needed jobs;
• Infrastructure to enable the businesses to flourish;
• Workforce Development to make sure workers have the skills
needed to assume the new jobs; and
• Quality of Place to ensure that Orange County remains a great place
to live and work.
Specific action steps were identified for each of these four areas of improvement.
The objectives of this element were derived from the key goals identified in this
plan.
2007 STATE OF THE LOCAL ECONOMY
The Orange County Economic Development Commission published a report
entitled State of the Local Economy in March, 2007. The report provides key
economic and demographic statistics for Orange County.
Key conclusions from the data analysis show improvement in some aspects of the
County's economy, including decreasing commercial vacancy rates, increases in
retail sales tax collections, maintenance of the lowest unemployment rate in the
state, and increases in weekly wages. The report also highlights that the County's
tax base continues to remain unbalanced at 86% residential and 14% non-
residential, retail sales per capita were well below the state average, the cost of
living in the area is still high, and the number of families on food stamps has
increased since 2000.
ESTABLISHMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT DISTRICTS
Orange County has designated more than 2,450 acres in three strategically placed
areas along Interstates 85 and 40 as Economic Development Districts. The
purpose of these districts is to promote development of properties located along
key transportation corridors and near urban areas for commercial or industrial
development. These sites were selected because of their adjacency to the
interstates, their proximity to rail facilities for the movement of goods and
potential for future transit service, access to public water and sewer service, and
the potential to divide large tracts in these districts into a range of building site
sizes. Orange County's location, midway between the Piedmont Triad and
Research Triangle metropolitan areas, makes these sites highly marketable.
The districts offer development potential for light industrial, warehouse/flex
space, office, retail, and business service. The specific types of developments that
can be constructed within these districts are explained in the Orange County
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Chapter 3: Economic Development Element
Development Disti'mets E)esign Manual Unified Development Ordinance,
ava"able through the ei-ange County Planning offiee. The manuall Ordinance
provides standards for each district that illustrate the desired
balance of economic development and environmental and neighborhood
protection. The schemetties identify standards address three main areas: 1)
primary development areas intended to accommodate the full range of light
industrial, distribution, retail, office, and service uses; 2) secondary development
areas that provide opportunities for less intense development including limited
office and residential uses; and 3) open space areas that include environmental
features such as steep slopes and floodplains that should not be developed.
The three Economic Development Districts include:
• f-85- Buckhorn Read District - This district is comprised of 845
acres located on the northeast and southeast quadrants of an 1-85
interchange at Buckhorn Road. Because the district is served by
transportation and utility systems, the entire developable portion of
the district has been designated as a primary development area;
• Hillsborough District - This district encompasses
all four corners of a major interstate exchange south of
Hillsborough. It includes 724 acres. This area includes a mix of
residential land uses and will require design solutions to buffer
neighborhoods from future development;
■ Eno District - This district extends almost
two miles along either side of 1-85. The district includes many land
uses, including single-family homes, Manufactured Housing District
developments, and small-scale service and commercial operations.
Almost half of the district is designated as a primary development
area. Design solutions will be needed in this district to transition
from residential uses to more intense commercial and industrial
uses.
Map 3-1 below illustrates the locations of the Buckhorn, Hillsborough Area, and
X0/1 85 Eno Economic Development Districts.
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Chapter 3: Economic Development Element
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing policies which may be at odds with historic
preservation goals, green building approaches, and workforce and
affordable housing efforts.
LAND USE
Objective LU-1.1:
Coordinate the location of higher intensity / high density residential
and non-residential development with existing or planned locations
of public transportation, commercial and community services, and
adequate supporting infrastructure (i.e., water and sewer, high-speed
internet access, streets, and sidewalks), while avoiding areas with
protected natural and cultural resources. This could be achieved by
increasing allowable densities and creating new mixed-use zoning
districts where adequate public services are available.
Objective LU-3.1:-
Discourage urban sprawl, encourage a separation of urban and rural
land uses, and direct new development into areas where necessary
community facilities and services exist through periodic updates to
the Land Use Plan.
Objective LU-3.2:
Coordinate land use patterns to facilitate the expanded use of non-
auto modes of travel, the increased occupancy of automobiles, and
the development and use of an energy-efficient transportation
system.
Objective LU-33:
Discourage new intensive non-residential land uses, or the expansion
of existing intensive uses, in the area designated Rural Buffer.
Objective LU-3.5:
Encourage energy and water use in an efficient manner by industries
and encourage energy efficient industries to locate or expand in the
County in Rural Industrial, Commercial/Industrial, and Economic
Development Nodes.
NATURAL AND CULTURAL SYSTEMS
Objective AG-2:
Pursue new measures (some of which may require special legislation)
to make farming more profitable, such as additional programs for
tax assistance.
Objective AG-3:
Develop programs and associated infrastructure facilities to make
local farms more economically viable, including local farm product
processing, development of a distribution center, and marketing
initiatives.
Objective AG-6:
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Chapter 4: Housing Element
LAND USE
Objective LU-1.1:
Coordinate the location of higher intensity / high density residential
and non-residential development with existing or planned locations of
public transportation, commercial and community services, and
adequate supporting infrastructure (i.e., water and sewer, high-speed
internet access, streets, and sidewalks), while avoiding areas with
protected natural and cultural resources. This could be achieved by
increasing allowable densities and creating new mixed-use zoning
districts where adequate public services are available.
Objective LU-2.10:
Develop design standards or guidelines that address scale, density,
and aesthetic considerations for residential, mixed-use, industrial, and
commercial land uses to promote community aesthetics and the
protection of the visual and cultural environment of the County.
Objective LU-4.1:
Support the use of individual manufactured housing units as a useful
housing resource in the County by increasing the opportunities where
these units can locate by-right.
Objective LU-4.2:
Review and amend the Orange County Zoning and Subdivision
des Unified Development Ordinance to identify and eliminate
existing regulatory impediments to objectives identified in the
Comprehensive Plan. Such objectives include the development of
energy efficient buildings within the County, and development of
affordable housing.
Objective LU-4.4:
Encourage the provision of a range of affordable and suitable low and
moderate income housing by means of development incentives in
order to provide a balanced housing stock for the residents of Orange
County.
NATURAL AND CULTURAL SYSTEMS
Objective CR-3:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing policies, which may be in conflict with the
preservation mission.
SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Objective WW-2:
Coordinate the provision of potable water and sanitary sewer services
with the County's Land Use Plan and Orange County-Chapel Hill-
Carrboro Joint Planning Agreement and Land Use Plan, targeting these
services to urban, transitional, and economic development districts in
a manner that does not endanger environmental resources.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Efland-Mebane Small Area Plan was adopted in June 2006 and includes
implementation recommendations for water and sewer, land use, transportation,
housing, parks, recreation and open space, communications, inter-governmental
agreements with Mebane, and design overlays for the US 70 Corridor and Efland
town core.
NC HIGHWAY 57 SPEEDWAY AREA SMALL AREA PLAN.
In 2007, Orange and Durham County completed a Small Area Plan for the 930-acre
North Carolina Highway 57 Speedway Area. This area is located in the northeast
corner of Orange County near the border with Durham County. The area was
selected as an opportunity for further long-range planning because of multiple
factors 1) existing businesses of non-conforming status, 2) the area's location
within a protected watershed, and 3) Orange County's desire to encourage
compatible non-residential development that protects the existing rural character
of the area. The planning process included an identification of issues and
concerns for the area, public feedback through scheduled meetings, and drafting
of the plan for public review and consideration. The plan includes nine goals for
guiding future planning efforts in the area, as well as objectives and policies for
implementing the goals.
The NC Highway 57 Speedway Area Small Area Plan was adopted by the County
Commissioners in August 2007. The implementation of recommendations
included in the Plan is forthcoming.
PANTRY STUDY
The Pantry Study was to ensure that subsequent developments were in accordance
with municipal and County land use objectives and included participation from the
Town of Hillsborough. The plan established development standards for transition
areas and additional protection for environmentally sensitive areas. The plan was
approved by the BOCC in July, 1986.
HOW SMALL AREA PLANS INFORM UPDATES TO THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Development of Small Area Plans has allowed the County to take a more detailed
look at targeted areas in the County. The goals and objectives of these Plans
provide a foundation for improving the County's Comprehensive Plan to effect
needed change in these locations. In general, these Small Area Plans have
highlighted the need for the County to: 1) Pursue additional interlocal agreements;
2) add additional partners to the Water and Sewer Management Planning and
Boundary Agreement; 3) amend the County's Future Land Use Map (contained
within the Land Use Element); and 4) amend the County's Zoning Unified
Development Ordinance text and map for consistency and to implement the
recommendations that have been included in the adopted Small Area Plans.
5.3. THE LAND USE PLAN
One of the fundamental planning tools used to achieve the stated goals and
objectives of the Comprehensive Plan in Orange County is the design and
application of a Land Use Plan and Map. Land Use Element implementation is
accomplished primarily through the application of zoning, although a variety of
land use ordinances are available for various aspects of implementation. A key
feature of land use planning in Orange County is the requirement for consistency
between the Future Land Use Pfart Map and the application of zoning. A The Land
Use and Zoning Distriet Matrix identifies matches each of the Land Use Plan
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
eate�e�ie� classifications with compatible, eorrespoii&mg zoning districts. If a
zoning district is not listed as compatible with th-e a land use category
classification emitained in the Matrix, re-zoning cannot take place unless the
Future Land Use Plan Map is amended. (See Appendix F: Relationships Between
Land Use C- s r ssifications and Zoning Districts Matt .)
The Future Land Use Map defines the location of coordinated and appropriate land
use classes and is designed to accommodate a particular combination of land uses
that would achieve a desired pattern of development. The linkage between the
1981 Plan and zoning has helped to guide new development to appropriate
locations in the County. As a result of the County's strong commitment to the
Future Land Use Kan Map, it can be and is used as a primary tool by staff, the
Planning Board, and elected officials during review of re-zonings. The Map also
provides the development community and staff with clear guidance to the
locations in the County where re-zonings may be appropriate and where they are
not.
T-he-There are three basic land use categories (Developed, Transition, and Rural)
and a series of overlays used on the Map. are based on five basie eategories,
wvhoch All have been refined into a more detailed classification system to meet the
specific development needs of the County. These five The land use categories and
overlays consist of the following: " ,
and eciiservatoom
DEVELOPED LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS
Urban
Land that is within the corporate limits or Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction
(ETJ) of a town and, therefore, under the planning and zoning
jurisdiction of the town.
Existmna Urban Activity Node -
Land corresponding to "activity eemers" designated by the Towns 0
Chapel 1 1011 and Carrbore and similarly identified for the Towns e
Land corresponding to proposed "aetivity centers" designated by the
Towns of Ehapel 1 101' and Garrbero.
TRANSITION LAND USE C TEGQRlEr CLASSIFICATIONS
10-Year Transition
Land located in areas that are in the process of changing from rural to
urban densities and/or intensities, that are suitable for higher
densities and/or intensities and could be provided with public utilities
and services within the first 10-year phase of the Plan update or where
such utilities and services are already present or planned. Non-
residential uses implemented in accordance with small area plans
and/or overlay districts may be appropriate.
20-Year Transition
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Land located in areas that are in the process of changing from rural to
urban, that are suitable for urban-type densities and should be
provided with public utilities and services within the second 10-year
phase of the plan.
Commercial Transition Activity Node
Land focused eii designated located at major road intersections or
near major transportation routes that could be provided with public
water and wastewater services and within either a 10 year or 26 year
transition area that is appropriate for retail and other commercial
uses.
Commercial-Industrial Transition Activity Node
Land near major transportation routes that could be provided with
public water and wastewater services and is appropriate for retail and
other commercial uses; manufacturing and other industrial uses; office
and limited (not to exceed 25% of any Node) higher density residential
uses.
Economic Development ETransition3 Activity Node
Land in traitshtien areas of the County which has been specifically
targeted for economic development activity consisting of light
industrial, distribution, office, service/retail uses, and flex space
(typically one-story buildings designed, constructed, and marketed as
suitable for use as offices but able to accommodate other uses such as
a warehouse, showroom, manufacturing assembly, or similar
operations.) Such areas are located adjacent to interstate and major
arterial highways, and subject to special design criteria and
performance standards.
Uses.EE)MMUNITY LANE) USE EATEGORY
Land focused on designated. roon-d intersections which seme as modal
cressroads for the surrotinding rural eommunity and is an appropriate
!Ocation for amy of the following uses, church, fire station, small-150'st
Office, school, Or Other similar institutiomal uses and ome or niere
RURAL LAND USE EATEGE)nIrr CLASSIFICATIONS
Rural Buffer
Land adjacent to an urban or transition area which is rural in character
and which should remain rural, contain very low-density residential
uses, and not require urban services during the plan period.
Rural Residential
Land in the rural areas of the County which is appropriate for low
intensity and low-density residential development and which would not
be dependent on urban services during the plan period.
Agricultural-Residential
Land in the rural areas where the prevailing land use activities are
related to the land (agriculture, forestry) and which is an appropriate
location for the continuation of these uses.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Rural Community Activity Node-
Land focused on designated road intersections which serve as nodal
crossroads for the surrounding rural community and is an appropriate
location for any of the following uses: church, fire station, small post
office, school, or other similar institutional uses and one or more
commercial uses.
Rural Neighborhood Activity Node
Land focused on designated road intersections within a Rum
Residential or Agricultural Residential the rural area that is appropriate
for small-scale commercial uses characteristic of "Mom and Pop"
convenience stores and gas stations.
Rural Industrial Activity Node
Land focused on designated road intersections within a--Rural
Residential or Agricultural Residential the rural area that is appropriate
for small scale industrial uses which do not require urban type
services.
Extractive U_
Land designated to encompass operations desr'9-111-�U' PrUTTIaIlly IVI UIC
mining and quarrying of those substances which are legally removable
which qualify for or are listed for, use valtie tax ati
Land vvoth'n the bo—d-Ii-I — , ie 4,696 acre Stoney Ereek Drainage
Bashi southeast of the Town of Hillsborough in portions of
Hilsborough, Eno, and Chapel 11711 Townships. The area is triangular
On shape an
Spur of Southern Railroad to the east, and NE I lighway 86 to the West.
CONSERVATION LAND USE CATEGORIES i
OVERLAYS
Public Interest Area
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Land which contains public or quasi-public uses such as publicly
owned land, research forests or known archaeological or historical
sites.
Water Supply Watershed
Land draining to existing reservoirs which serve as public water
supplies, or to potential reservoir sites or stream intakes for drinking
water withdrawal which have been designated for protection against
threats to the water quality of future water supplies, in accordance
with County watershed protection programs and the North Carolina
Water Supply Watershed Protection Act of 1989.
Watershed Critical Area, County Designated
The land area within one-half mile of the normal pool elevation (or
designated elevation) of an existing Class II water supply reservoir, or
the ridgeline of the watershed, whichever is less; and the land area
within one-half mile of the normal pool elevation (or designated
elevation) of a proposed water supply reservoir, or the ridgeline of the
watershed, whichever is less; and the area within one-half mile on each
side of streams flowing into Class I reservoirs, as designated for
protection within the Zoning Ordinance.
Watershed Critical Area, State Required
The land area within one-half mile of the normal pool elevation of
public water supply reservoirs in which an intake is located (i.e., Class
I reservoirs), or the ridge line of the watershed, whichever is closest to
the normal pool elevation of the reservoir.
Reservoir. Class I
A body of water, such as a pond or lake, confined by a dam or other
barrier to be used for public water supply from which water flows by
gravity or is pumped directly to a treatment plant or to a small
intervening storage basin and thence to a treatment plant.
Reservoir. Class II
A body of water, such as a pond or lake, confined by a dam or other
barrier to be used for public water supply from which water flows by
gravity or is pumped to a Class I reservoir prior to final entrance to a
water treatment plant.
Resource Protection Area
Land designated as Primary Conservation Area which contains
sensitive environmental resources, historically significant sites, and
features considered unbuildable because of their limitations or
unsuitability for development. This includes wetlands and floodplains
along drainage tributaries, steep slope areas, (15% or greater), natural
areas, wildlife habitats and corridors, and significant historic and
archaeological sites. These areas form the basis for a conservation
network within which other land uses are situated.
New Hone Creek Corridor Open Space-
Some of the land in the Resource Protection Areas and a portion of the
Public Interest Area designated as significant and worthy of protection
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
according to the New Hope Corridor Open Space Master Plan
completed in April of 1991. This classification is part of a system of
open space in Durham and Orange Counties along New Hope Creek
and its tributaries between Eno River State Park and U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers land north of Jordan Lake. The New Hope Corridor Open
Space is made up of critical environmental areas such as stream beds,
floodplains, steep slopes, and larger tracts of historic, educational, or
recreational value.
Stoney Creek Basin-
Land within the boundaries of the 4,696 acre Stoney Creek Drainage
Basin southeast of the Town of Hillsborough in portions of
Hillsborough, Eno, and Chapel Hill Townships. The area is triangular
in shape and is bound generally by 1-85 to the north, the University
Spur of Southern Railroad to the east, and NC Highway 86 to the west.
For each land use classification and overlay, sets of criteria have been developed
that describe the physical and environmental context, the projected population
change, and resulting land requirements. (See Appendix G: Land Use Platt
Eery-Classification and Overlay Locational Criteria.)
Map 5-4: Future Land Use Map, designates the areas where these classifications
are applied.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
4„
There are, however, positive signs of community commitment to land and
watershed preservation with Orange County establishing a Lands Legacy Program
and the Triangle Land Conservancy increasing the acreage it owns in the County.
In addition, private land owners have taken positive steps towards protecting
environmental resources through the provision of conservation easements. By the
end of 2007, a total of 20,400 acres (8% of the County) were protected through
various public and private means. One of the goals of the Plan is to protect 10%
of lands in the County by 2010. Even if this goal is achieved, more will need to be
done to protect the integrity of the natural landscape in Orange County. Given the
forecasts for continued growth in development in the County, land planning
efforts will need to direct growth to designated areas and away from prime natural
areas.
TRANSPORTATION TRENDS
The County's population has become increasingly dependent on the automobile
for transportation. Since 1990, approximately 70% of the County's workforce has
driven alone to work each day, with an average 22 minute commute. Looking at
travel data, the North Carolina Department of Transportation expects that the total
daily vehicle miles traveled will increase from 2000 to 2015 by 51%. County
vehicle registrations increased by 33% between 1990 and 2005, showing that
more and more cars are driving on County roads. This increased travel has, in
turn, increased vehicle emissions in the County. In 2004, Orange County was
declared part of a "non-attainment” area by the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency for violating federal ozone standards. In late 2007, however, the EPA
approved a request from the State to redesignate the Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill
area to "attainment" and it is now in a maintenance program to follow a State plan
for maintaining the ozone standard through 2017.
The increase in vehicle use has contributed to impaired local air quality and
increased traffic congestion. Changing these trends will require coordinated
planning efforts, both locally and regionally, to provide alternative means of
transportation.
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS
In addition to regulatory constraints to development, such as zoning regulations
that limit densities and use types in certain zoning districts, Orange County's
physical features, including topography, suitability of soils, and drainage areas or
floodplains serve as constraints on future development in some areas of the
County. Map 5-8 illustrates the locations of these development constraints.
Some of these areas are also identified on the Future Land Use Plan Map 5-4,
shown previously, as Resource Protection Areas.
The construction and engineering industries have seen great improvements in
building technologies over the last few decades. Natural development constraints
that would once prohibit development from occurring can now be overcome
through new building materials and engineering designs. In response, the County
has been very successful at regulating development to reduce soil erosion,
sedimentation, and stormwater flows from new developments, and is seen as a
leader in the state in terms of watershed protection. These efforts should be
continued into the future.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
4.y
use policies, plans, regulations and ordinances. And it is this Comprehensive Plan
and implementation of its objectives that will guide the development of Orange
County's future land use ordinances, regulations, and a coordinated land use plan
that is based on community values.
Much has been accomplished in planning for future land use patterns in Orange
County, but more needs to be done. Specific needs follow:
• The County's Future Land Use Warr Map needs to be updated
and re-drawn to reflect current policies and plans, to provide
guidance and information to residents and property owners. The
revised Future Land Use Wain Map needs to be drawn to include the
following:
— Chapel Hill-Carrboro,joint Planning Area Land Use Plan;
— Hillsborough-Orange County Strategic Plan;
— Most Current Economic Development Districts;
— Most Current Rural Activity Nodes and other growth
opportunity areas;
— Most Current Inventory of Natural and Cultural
Resources; and
— Identification of Preservation Areas.
■ Inter-local Agreements are needed between the County and the
Towns of Hillsborough and Mebane, similar to the agreements
with Chapel Hill and Carrboro, to jointly plan for and regulate
development on the edges of those municipalities.
■ Following updates to the Future Land Use Map, the County's
Zoning Unified Development Ordinance will need to be
assessed for necessary adjustments. These zoning changes
should encourage meeting the objectives that promote
sustainability including mixed-use development patterns,
transportation linkages, economic development, and diversity in
housing opportunities.
• Adjust zoning regulations and apply zoning categories in
preservation areas to discourage intensive and unsustainable
development.
• Continue to study mechanisms for transfer of development
rights from preservation areas to areas targeted for growth.
• The County needs to refine policies to encourage green building
practices for public and private construction projects. This may
entail an assessment of current building codes and development
ordinances to identify barriers to using green construction
practices, and/or creating incentives for private developers to use
more environmentally friendly construction and demolition
techniques. Deconstruction for the purpose of reuse is preferred
over demolition.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Land Use Goal 2: Land uses that are appropriate to on-site
environmental conditions and features, and that protect natural
resources, cultural resources, and community character.
Objective LU-2.1:
Maintain the rural, low-density land surrounding Chapel Hill and
Carrboro Transition Areas as Rural Buffer land, as designated on the
Future Land Use Pfarr Map. Future consideration should be given to
designating Rural Buffer areas around other municipalities where such
interest exists.
Objective LU-2.2:
Continue to protect valuable resource land such as productive
agricultural areas, natural areas, historic sites and properties, and
potential reservoir sites through the County's Lands Legacy Program,
and by directing incompatible development away from these areas
through land use and zoning policies and regulations. (See also
Natural Areas Objectives NA-5 and NA-1 7, and Water and Wastewater
Objective WW-14.)
Objective LU-23:
Require non-residential and higher-density residential developments
within Transition Areas to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for
stormwater control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoning
Unified Development Ordinance ,
to ensure that potential adverse impacts on the water quality of
existing and proposed reservoir sites are avoided. (See also Erosion
Control EC-1 and Natural Areas Objective NA-4.)
Objective LU-2.4:
Evaluate the development potential in rural crossroads communities to
identify whether current regulations permit appropriate development
that is in character with these communities, and whether potential
development in these areas would require significant expansions or
cause depletions of public services.
Objective LU-2.5:
Adopt and implement policies that specify appropriate land uses and
intensities of development in Protected and Critical Water Resource
Areas that will not have potential adverse impacts on water resources.
(See also Water and Wastewater Objective WW-1 5.)
Objective LU-2.6:
Protect prime reservoir sites from adverse development impacts and
ensure that regulations for these areas are appropriate.
Objective LU-2.7:
Refine green building standards to guide the design, siting,
construction, and management of publicly owned and managed
buildings in a manner that conserves energy and/or uses non-
polluting renewable energy sources. Explore the development of green
building standards for private development. (See also Air and Energy
Objective AE-1 1.)
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Objective LU-2.8:
Develop performance standards for development on lands with non-
renewable resources to ensure a sufficient level of environmental
protection for these resources.
Objective LU-2.9:
Evaluate the carrying capacity of groundwater and surface water
resources of the 15 watersheds in Orange County. (See also Water
Resources Objective WR-7.)
Objective LU-2.10:
Develop design standards or guidelines that address scale, density,
and aesthetic considerations for residential, mixed-use, industrial, and
commercial land uses to promote community aesthetics and the
protection of the visual and cultural environment of the County. (See
also Housing Objective H-3.1 .)
Land Use Goal 3: A variety of land uses that are coordinated
within a program and pattern that limits sprawl, preserves
community and rural character, minimizes land use conflicts,
supported by an efficient and balanced transportation system.
Objective LU-3.1:-
Discourage urban sprawl, encourage a separation of urban and rural
land uses, and direct new development into areas where necessary
community facilities and services exist through periodic updates to the
Land Use Plan. (See also Economic Development Objective ED-2.8.)
Objective LU-3.2:
Coordinate land use patterns to facilitate the expanded use of non-
auto modes of travel, the increased occupancy of automobiles, and the
development and use of an energy-efficient transportation system.
(See also Transportation Objective T-1.1 , Economic Development
Objective ED-2.3, and Air and Energy Resources Objective AE-8.)
Objective LU-3.3:
Discourage new intensive non-residential land uses, or the expansion
of existing intensive uses, in the area designated Rural Buffer. (See
also Economic Development Objective ED-2.8.)
Objective LU-3.4:
Recognize the right to farm and discourage the location of new non-
farm development, particularly more intensive residential
development, within farming areas to minimize the incidence of
complaints and nuisance suits against farm operations. (See also
Agriculture Objectives AG-1 and AG-3.)
Objective LU-3.5:
Encourage energy and water use in an efficient manner by industries
and encourage energy efficient industries to locate or expand in the
County in Rural Industrial, Commercial/Industrial, and Economic
OraWCouy►.LyCovnprehevt4ivPiP4m Page 5-42
Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Development Nodes. (See also Economic Development Objective ED-
2.9.)
Objective LU-3.6:-
Establish consistency between the Land Use Plan and the Water and
Sewer Management Planning and Boundary Agreement and Map. (See
also Water and Wastewater Objective WW-3.)
Objective LU-3.7:
Ensure that new development patterns in non-residential nodes
encourage a clustered, walkable development pattern and discourage
strip development.
Objective LU-3.8:
Develop a process for implementing small area plan recommendations
through the revision of County policies and regulations.
Objective LU-3.9:
Create new zoning district(s) which allow for a mixing of commercial
and residential uses, a mixing of housing types, and creates a more
pedestrian friendly development pattern. New districts should be
applied in areas where public services exist or are planned for in the
future, in areas that promote higher intensity and high density uses on
the Future Land Use Pfan map.
Objective LU-3.10:
Identify prime viewsheds along major transportation corridors and
other areas, and amend County land use ordinances to ensure long-
term protection of viewsheds. (See also Natural Areas Objective NA-
16, Parks and Recreation Objective PR-5.4, and Transportation
Objective T-1.5.)
Objective LU-3.1 1
In response to development plans at Carolina North, including the
possible relocation of Horace Williams Airport, review County land use
ordinances and amend if needed to protect the interests of Orange
County's residents.
Land Use Goal 4: Land development regulations, guidelines,
techniques and/or incentives that promote the integrated
achievement of all Comprehensive Plan goals.
Objective LU-4.1:
Support the use of individual manufactured housing units as a useful
housing resource in the County by increasing the opportunities where
these units can locate by-right. (See also Housing Objective H-4.1.)
Objective LU-4.2:
Review and amend the Orange County Zenimg and Subdivision
Unified Development Ordinance to identify and eliminate
existing regulatory impediments to objectives identified in the
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
b„
Comprehensive Plan. Such objectives include but are not limited to
the development of energy efficient buildings within the County, water
efficiency standards for new development, and development of
affordable housing. (See also Housing Objective H-4.4 and Solid Waste
Objective SW-4.)
Objective LU-4.3:
Determine how private developments can best accommodate or
provide public and private commercial recreational facilities to serve
Orange County's residents. (See also Parks and Recreation Objective
PR-1.3 and Natural Areas Objective NA-10.)
Objective LU-4.4:
Encourage the provision of a range of affordable and suitable low and
moderate income housing by means of development incentives in
order to provide a balanced housing stock for the residents of Orange
County. (See also Housing Element Objective H-4.3.)
Objective LU-4.5:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing land development policies that may be in conflict with
historic preservation goals. (See also Cultural Resources Objective CR-
3.)
Objective LU-4.6:
Prepare an analysis of subdivision trends in the County, providing pros
and cons of Minor, Major, and Exempt Subdivisions, and
recommendations on any ordinance amendments that may be
appropriate.
Land Use Goal 5: Life, health, and property safe from hazards.
Objective LU-5-1:
Prohibit new development in special flood hazard areas as defined by
the Federal Emergency Management Flood Insurance Rate Map,
effective February 2, 2007.
Objective LU-5-2:
Continue to implement the Orange County Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Objective LU-5-3:
Develop and coordinate an emergency disaster plan and community
education program to increase awareness of the dangers of natural
and human-made emergency events and understand how best to
prepare.
Land Use Goal 6: A land use planning process that is
transparent, fair, open, efficient, and responsive.
Objective LU-6.1:
Undertake a comprehensive effort to inform and involve the citizens of
Orange County in the land use planning process.
0 CCU4' y C&mp#,ahev► e,Plc w Page 5-44
Chapter 5: Land Use Element
processing, development of a distribution center, and marketing
initiatives.
Objective AE-8:
Improve transportation efficiency: promote more public
transportation, ride sharing, and alternative transportation such as
bicycling and walking.
Objective AE-1 1:
Improve the energy efficiency of buildings through several action
steps: 1) upgrade existing buildings, including County and school
buildings; 2) educate planning and building inspection officials about
the technologies and techniques of energy efficient construction; and
3) encourage the use of LEED "Gold" (or equivalent) as a standard in
new construction.
Objective CR-3:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing policies, which may be in conflict with the County's
historic preservation mission.
Objective NA-4:
Encourage adequate stormwater runoff controls in existing developed
areas and require these controls for new subdivisions to protect
sensitive downstream aquatic habitats.
Obieective NA-5:
Prohibit development that would cause adverse impacts on highly
significant natural areas and wildlife habitat.
Objective NA-10:
Require that all major subdivisions (defined as having more than 5 lots
according to the Orange County Subdivisiom Regulatiems Unified
Development Ordinance) include within their boundaries open space
suitable for low-impact recreation and wildlife habitat.
Objective NA-16:
Create a system of public and private open space and conservation
areas, including parks, nature preserves, and scenic vistas
representative of the Orange County landscape.
Objective NA-17:
Maintain and protect land that contains valuable productive resources,
such as prime farmland and prime forestland, by directing
incompatible development away from these areas.
Objective WR-7:
Promote land use patterns that preserve the natural hydrologic system
and maintain a sustainable "carrying capacity" balance for the future
between ground water and surface water resources.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Objective PR-1.3:
Develop a land use planning mechanism for securing new parks
through the development approval process.
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Chapter 5: Land Use Element
Objective PR-5.4:
Encourage development of a system of private open space and
conservation areas, including nature preserves, parks, linear parks,
and scenic vistas compatible with the character of Orange County.
SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Objective WW-2:
Coordinate the provision of potable water and sanitary sewer services
with the County's Land Use Plan and Orange County-Chapel Hill-
Carrboro joint Planning Agreement and Land Use Plan, targeting these
services to urban, transitional, and economic development districts in
a manner that does not endanger environmental resources.
Objective WW-3:
Maintain and add new partners to the existing Water and Sewer
Management Planning and Boundary Agreements with the Towns of
Chapel Hill, Carrboro, and Hillsborough and OWASA. Work to establish
similar agreements with the Cities of Mebane and Durham and
Orange-Alamance Water System.
Objective WW-5:
Maintain a cooperative joint planning process among the County, the
municipalities, and water and wastewater providers and guide the
extension of service in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan, the
Orange County-Chapel Hill-Carrboro ,Joint Planning Agreement and
Land Use Plan, and the policies of the municipalities.
Objective WW-14:
Designate prime reservoir sites in the County, and protect those sites
from adverse development.
Objective EC-1:
Continue to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for stormwater
control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoiiing Unified
Development Ordinance, Stormwater Ordinanee, and Sedimentation
to minimize potential adverse impacts on the water
quality.
Objective SW-4:
Use land use planning, zoning regulations, and the process of
development approvals to enable the appropriate environmental
controls and oversight of necessary solid waste facilities.
TRANSPORTATION
Objective T-1.1:
Increase the occupancy of automobiles through ridesharing and other
means; and expand the use of public transit (including bus and rail),
walking, and biking as primary modes of travel.
Objective T-1.5:
Identify prime viewsheds along major transportation corridors and
protect these areas for their scenic and natural resource values.
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Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
STATUS OF RARE PLANTS AND ANIMALS
The conversion of natural lands to urban or suburban uses results in
habitat loss for native plants and animals, and can result in loss of
native species. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program maintains
a list of rare plant and animal species and classifies them as
endangered, threatened or species of concern. The status of Orange
County's rare plant and animal species is provided in Appendix L.
Since 2002 three species (Carolina darter, sharp-shinned hawk, small
whorled pogonia) were changed from the "Current" to the "Historic"
category, meaning that they have not been observed in Orange County
during the past 20 years. The 2004 update of the Inventory of Natural
Areas and Wildlife Habitat for Orange County, North Carolina
confirmed the previous documentation of several rare species within
the county's natural areas and added one new species, the Carolina
Ladle Crayfish.
LAND PROTECTION EFFORTS
Early efforts to conserve land in Orange County include Duke
University's purchase of large tracts of land (including abandoned
farmland) in the 1920s and 30s. The land was managed for forestry
research and education, and later for timber production. Duke Forest
continued to grow and many sections were recognized for their
conservation value. In 2004, Duke University registered 1 ,220 acres
for voluntary protection with the North Carolina Natural Heritage
Program. Today, Duke is the largest landowner in the County, owning
more than 5,000 acres of land. Duke Forest provides an excellent
model of sustainable land management.
The State of North Carolina began purchasing lands for the new Eno
River State Park beginning in the 1970s. The linear park was
established around large natural areas associated with the river.
Acquisition of land along the Eno from Durham to Hillsborough
continues today pursuant to the state park master plan. Now more
than two-thirds of the state park (3,160 acres) is in Orange County.
The State has also acquired 160 acres along the Eno near Hillsborough
for Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area.
In the 1980s the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) started
acquiring lands in Bingham Township for the Cane Creek Reservoir and
later acquired more land in the watershed to protect drinking water
supplies. In 1984 the University of North Carolina dedicated 367 acres
as the Mason Farm Biological Reserve.
During the 1980s and 1990s the Triangle Land Conservancy, the Eno
River Association, and others used the aforementioned inventories and
plans to protect critical resource lands along important river corridors.
Significant natural resource lands are also protected as part of the
development approval process administered by the Orange County
Planning Department. The Unified
Development Ordinance requires that important natural resources be
identified and avoided. Some of those areas are set aside as private
open space or are dedicated to the County for open space and low-
Ora4WCourity Compre,h.ev�&P la w Page 6-63
Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
impact recreation purposes. The County encourages private
preservation of open space areas through education and outreach.
LANDS LEGACY PROGRAM
In 2000 Orange County accelerated the pace of conservation by
establishing the Lands Legacy program -- the first comprehensive
county land conservation program in North Carolina. Lands Legacy was
the first focus of the new Environment and Resource Conservation
Department, a department established in 1998 to make environmental
protection a separate function of county government. Through Lands
Legacy the County collaborates with local land trusts, OWASA, area
universities, and other partners to protect some of the County's most
important natural and cultural resources before they are lost or
irreparably damaged. The types of land protected include natural areas
and wildlife habitat, parkland, prime farmland, historic and cultural
sites, and stream buffers. The County also works with its advisory
boards to help guide its acquisition priorities and sets those priorities
every two years through the adoption of the Lands Legacy Action Plan.
To date, Lands Legacy has protected nearly 2,300 acres, as described
in Table 6-3.
TABLE 6-3: LAND PROTECTED THROUGH LANDS LEGACY PROGRAM
(2007)
Fee Simple Acres
Acquisitions
-Parkland 670
-Natural lands/Other 307
977 acres
Conservation
Easements
(privately-owned
lands)
-Prime farmland 1,088
-Natural areas 210
1,298 acres
Total Protected Land 2,275 acres
CURRENT ESTIMATES OF PROTECTED LAND
The County's Environment and Resource Conservation Department
(ERCD) maintains a comprehensive database of protected lands
throughout the County, including public parkland, nature preserves,
and other public and private open space dedicated for conservation.
The data includes conservation easements held by local land trusts,
OWASA, Orange County and several other entities.
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Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
Natural & Cultural Systems Goal 7: A balanced and healthy
diversity of native plant and animal populations.
Objective NA-1:
Conserve high-priority natural areas and wildlife habitats, including
wetlands, rivers and streams, floodplains, steep slopes, prime forests,
wildlife corridors, and other critical habitats. (See also Water
Resources Objective WR-1.)
Objective NA-2:
Conduct more frequent updates to the County's inventory of natural
areas, and include previously unsurveyed areas of the County.
Objective NA-3:
Develop a more detailed and consistent methodology for monitoring
changes in forest cover throughout the County, and specifically the
extent of mature hardwood forest.
Objective NA-4:
Encourage adequate stormwater runoff controls in existing developed
areas and require these controls for new subdivisions to protect
sensitive downstream aquatic habitat. (See also Land Use Element
Objective LU-2.3 and Erosion Control Objective EC-1 .)
Objective NA-5:
Prohibit development that would cause adverse impacts on highly
significant natural areas and wildlife habitat. (See also Land Use
Objective LU-2.2 and Water and Wastewater Objective WW-14.)
Objective NA-6:
Develop a way of monitoring common indicator species as a way to
measure the "state of biodiversity" in Orange County.
Objective NA-7:
Ensure that significant natural areas and wildlife habitat located on
County-owned lands are protected with adequate ecosystem
management practices and stewardship.
Objective NA-8:
Encourage forest management practices on both public and private
land that minimize disruption and fragmentation of intact hardwood
forests. (See also Agriculture Objective AG-9.)
Objective NA-9:
Encourage long-term productivity of farms and timber lands through
best land-use management practices and conservation agreements.
(See also Parks and Recreation Objective PR-1 A.)
Natural & Cultural Systems Goal 8: Networks of protected
natural, cultural and agricultural lands.
Objective NA-10:
Require that all major subdivisions (defined as having more than 5 lots
according to the Orange County Unified
Development Ordinance) include within their boundaries open space
Orangw_1County Compre e*v,,,ve1Plan. Page 6-69
Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
suitable for low-impact recreation and wildlife habitat. (See also Land
Use Objective LU-4.3 and Parks and Recreation Objectives PR-1.3 and
PR-4.1 .)
Objective NA-11:
Develop a comprehensive conservation plan for achieving a network of
protected open space throughout Orange County, which addresses 1)
threats to important natural areas; 2) connectivity between protected
areas; 3) coordination with neighboring counties; and 4) sustainable
management of critical natural resources. (See also Parks and
Recreation Objective PR-5.4.)
Objective NA-12:
Establish a system of nature preserves that protect large areas of
undeveloped land (including significant natural areas) surrounded by
low-density development and working farms and managed forests.
(See also Parks and Recreation Objective PR-5.4.)
Obmective NA-13:
Promote clustering of residential development and dedication of large
areas of undisturbed land for low-impact recreational use by residents
and for wildlife habitat. Where feasible, these areas should be
contiguous to neighboring tracts of undisturbed land. (See also Parks
and Recreation Objective PR-5.1 .)
Objective NA-14:
Encourage developers and neighborhood associations to protect
undeveloped community open space through formal conservation
agreements.
Objective NA-15:
Protect land in and around biologically significant areas, and
connections between these areas, to allow for the maintenance of
native wildlife and plant populations and their functional relationships.
Objective NA-16:
Create a system of public and private open space and conservation
areas, including parks, nature preserves, and scenic vistas
representative of the Orange County landscape. (See also Land Use
Objective LU-3.10, Parks and Recreation Objective PR-5.4, and
Transportation Objective T-1.5.)
Objective NA-1 7:
Maintain and protect land that contains valuable productive resources,
such as prime farmland and prime forestland, by directing
incompatible development away from these areas. (See also Water and
Wastewater Objective WW-14, Land Use Objective LU-2.2, and Natural
Areas Objective NA-5.)
CONCLUSIONS
The County has been a leader in land protection efforts in the State of
North Carolina, and more work can be done. With this chapter, the
County is setting a vision of preserving an interconnected system of
natural preserves, parklands, and other natural areas jointly owned and
managed by different entities as one cohesive system for land
0 r"IyR,C m"tty C"LprelAe� e,PIa4 V Page 6-70
Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
Name of Study Year Findings/Results
impervious limits) in 1992.
State Watershed 1991 Examined proposed state minimum
Protection Rules and rules. After rules changed, County opted
Implications for to keep original more protective
Oran a County standards in place.
Cane Creek 1999 Stringent land use controls needed to
Watershed Technical protect against future
Study degradation/sedimentation. Led to land
use controls (lot size, impervious limits),
with some open s ace provisions.
Jordan Lake 2004 Technical study for large regional lake
Watershed Technical and focused on areas of concern - including
Study and Proposed ongoing Upper New Hope Arm (southeast
Nutrient Management Orange). Proposed reductions in
Rules nitrogen (25%) and phosphorus (5%)
currently being considered.
The ultimate result of the many technical studies and state watershed
rules is that much of the County's land area is comprised of small to
medium sized water supply watersheds, which by their nature require
special protection measures. The limited potential for future water
supply sources makes increased protection of the existing sources and
better characterization of the fractured crystalline rocks all the more
critical. All of the County's major water supply watersheds have been
the subject of technical studies, except for the Upper Eno watershed.
This watershed has been the subject of conservation studies, but a full
technical study has not been undertaken.
The County's overall approach to watershed protection, as noted in the
introduction, is to pursue a non-structural approach. This involves
protection of water quality at the source, by using land use measures
to control impervious surface, the number of housing units (and hence
wastewater systems), the infiltration of stormwater on-site, and the
protection of stream buffers to further filter water as it moves from the
watershed to the stream corridors.
Minimum lot size limits help achieve the goal of limiting human
impacts and is a broad tool that is widely in use. Accompanying limits
on the amount of land that can be impervious to water infiltration helps
reduce sheet flow runoff into streams and encourage infiltration into
the soil.
Orange County's stream buffer provisions are a key component of the
County's watershed protection approach. Implemented through the
Zoning Unified Development Ordinance, the overall size and width of
protected stream buffers are based on a calculation that takes into
consideration the slope of the land and the existing vegetative cover
along an identified water body. At a minimum, stream buffers are
required to be fifty (50) feet in width along both sides of a stream, with
an additional fifteen (1 5) or thirty (30) feet of protected buffer required
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Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
based on severity of slope. Protected stream buffers are measured
from the edge of the stream bank of defined special flood hazard
areas.
Floodplains are mapped areas of the County adjoining streams in which
a frequency of flooding may be expected to occur in a given timeframe.
The most frequently used floodplain measure is the special flood
hazard area. This denotes the floodplain area subject to a chance flood
occurrence of one percent (1%) in any given year. Map D-11 of the
County Profile Element, located in Appendix A, illustrates the location
of special flood hazard areas in the County, along with other
development constraints.
One of the impacts of land development over time is an increase in
surface water runoff during storm events.
Another type of land that is of significance in terms of both natural
areas and water quality is wetlands. Wetlands in Orange County and
other upland areas are primarily associated with streams and water
bodies. Wetlands are important to overall health and environmental
diversity, providing habitat for aquatic and riparian species, and also
serving as in important natural water filtering device. More information
about the wildlife habitat associated with wetlands may be found in
section 6.4.4
SURFACE WATER QUANTITY
Surface water quantity and availability is, as previously noted,
considerably limited due to the "headwaters" nature of the County. A
standard measurement of the amount of water in reservoirs and water
systems is the calculation of "safe yield." While definitions of this term
vary, and the term for safe yield is changeable, safe yield is generally
defined as the demand for water that can be met under drought
conditions. For example, a 30-year safe yield is the demand that a
water system can support under drought conditions that would occur
on an average of once every 30 years (or have a one in 30 chance of
occurring in any one given year).
The following table, Table 6-6 illustrates existing and planned
expansions of water supply sources in Orange County, their owner, and
safe yield of supply.
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Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
decades to gather data, explore solutions, and implement actions to
protect precious surface and ground water resources. The County can
serve as the coordinator of water resource planning efforts; creating a
comprehensive approach that addresses watershed planning at the
regional, local, and site levels.
6.5. LINKS TO OTHER ELEMENTS
Natural and Cultural Systems are interconnected to economic development,
housing, transportation, park and recreation facilities, and community services
planning. Linkages between specific natural and cultural systems goals and
objectives have been identified in this element. The following summarizes the
objectives from other Elements that are linked with natural and cultural systems
objectives.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
ObLctive ED-1.1:
Focus public education efforts on sustainability issues, looking at the
social, economic and environmental contributions of local businesses.
Objective ED-1.7:
Enhance Orange County's tourist industry.
Objective ED-4.1:
Enhance historic character by supporting organizations' efforts to
preserve, promote, and maintain historic structures, and identify
Orange County policies that may be in conflict with these efforts.
Objective ED-4.4:
Enhance rural and agricultural community character by supporting
local agriculture markets, supporting complementary conservation and
management tools, and considering tools to make farming more
profitable.
HOUSING
Obiective H-3.6:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing policies which may be at odds with historic
preservation goals, green building approaches, and workforce and
affordable housing efforts.
LAND USE
Objective LU-2.2:
Continue to protect valuable resource land such as productive
agricultural acreage, managed forest areas, natural areas, historic sites
and properties, and potential reservoir sites through the County's
Lands Legacy Program, and by directing incompatible development
away from these areas through land use and zoning policies and
regulations.
Objective LU-2.3:
Require non-residential and higher-density residential developments
within Transition Areas to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for
0ra+W CauntyC&wtpreh +v, ve,Plaw Page 6-94
Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
stormwater control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoning
Unified Development Ordinance mid Sedimentation eontr_l E)rdimaii._
to ensure that potential adverse impacts on the water quality of
existing and proposed reservoir sites.
Objective LU-2.7:
Refine green building standards to guide the design, siting,
construction, and management of publicly owned and managed
buildings in a manner that conserves energy and/or uses non-
polluting renewable energy sources. Explore the development of green
building standards for private development.
Objective LU-2.9:
Evaluate the carrying capacity of groundwater and surface water
resources of the 15 watersheds in Orange County.
Objective LU-3.2:
Coordinate land use patterns to facilitate the expanded use of non-
auto modes of travel, the increased occupancy of automobiles, and the
development and use of an energy-efficient transportation system.
Objective LU-3.4:
Recognize the right to farm and discourage the location of new non-
farm development, particularly more intensive residential
development, within farming areas to minimize the incidence of
complaints and nuisance suits against farm operations.
Objective LU-3.10:
Identify prime viewsheds along major transportation corridors and
other areas, and amend County land use ordinances to ensure long-
term protection of viewsheds.
Objective LU-4.3:
Determine how private developments can best accommodate or
provide public and private commercial recreational facilities to serve
Orange County's residents.
Objective LU-4.5:
Work within the Orange County government system to identify and
resolve existing land development policies that may be in conflict with
the historic preservation goals.
PARKS AND RECREATION
Objective PR-1.1:
Acquire and /or retain public ownership of parks, recreation facilities,
open space, and conservation areas that will serve Orange County.
Objective PR-1.3:
Develop a land use planning mechanism for securing new parks
through the development approval process.
Objective PR-4.1:
Developers shall provide for adequate and appropriate open space
suitable for active/low-impact recreation in residential developments.
Orc+.vt#e,Ca"ty Co-mprehevt e,Pla Page 6-95
Chapter 6: Natural and Cultural Systems Element
Objective PR-5.1:
Locate parks and recreational facilities close to residential areas to
encourage informal interaction with nature, encourage walkability, and
create areas of wildlife habitat with appropriate recreational facilities
within the more populated areas.
Objective PR-5.4:
Encourage development of a system of private open space and
conservation areas, including nature preserves, parks, linear parks,
and scenic vistas compatible with the character of Orange County.
SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Objective WW-1:
Maintain a sustainable and high quality supply of ground and surface
water so that available resources meet existing and projected needs.
Objective WW-5:
Maintain a cooperative joint planning process among the County, the
municipalities, and water and wastewater providers and guide the
extension of service in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan, the
Orange county-Chapel Hill-Carrboro ,Joint Planning Agreement and
Land Use Plan, and the policies of the municipalities.
Objective WW-11:
Increase educational efforts that increase citizen understanding of
water quality problems and the need for water conservation.
Objective WW-14:
Designate prime reservoir sites in the County, and protect those sites
from adverse development.
Objective WW-19:
Establish a continuing wastewater treatment inspection program
within identified Protected and Critical Water Resource Areas.
Objective EC-1:
Continue to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for stormwater
control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoning Unified
Development Ordinance, stermwater erdinance, and Sedimentation
to minimize potential adverse impacts on the water
quality.
TRANSPORTATION
Objective T-1.1:
Increase the occupancy of automobiles through ridesharing and other
means; and expand the use of public transit (including bus and rail),
walking, and biking as primary modes of travel.
Objective T-1.5:
Identify prime viewsheds along major transportation corridors and
protect these areas for their scenic and natural resource values.
Objective T-1.6:
Ora WCcu*tty C&"Vrehev rive-Plc v Page 6-96
Chapter 7: Parks and Recreation Element
NATURAL AND CULTURAL SYSTEMS
Objective NA-10:
Require that all major subdivisions (defined as having more than 5 lots
according to the Orange County Subdivision Regulations Unified
Development Ordinance) include within their boundaries open space
suitable for low-impact recreation and wildlife habitat.
Objective NA-11:
Develop a comprehensive conservation plan for achieving a network of
protected open space throughout Orange County, which addresses 1)
threats to important natural areas; 2) connectivity between protected
areas; 3) coordination with neighboring counties; and 4) sustainable
management of critical natural resources.
Objective NA-12:
Establish a system of nature preserves that protect large areas of
undeveloped land (including significant natural areas) surrounded by
low-density development and working farms and managed forests.
Objective NA-13:
Promote clustering of residential development and dedication of large
areas of undisturbed land for low-impact recreational use by residents
and for wildlife habitat. Where feasible, these areas should be
contiguous to neighboring tracts of undisturbed land.
Objective NA-16:
Create a system of public and private open space and conservation
areas, including parks, nature preserves, and scenic vistas
representative of the Orange County landscape.
SERVICES AND FACILITIES
Objective E-2:
Continue to work with parks and recreation providers in the County to
identify opportunities for co-location and shared funding of school and
public recreational "joint use" facilities.
TRANSPORTATION
Objective T-1.5:
Identify prime viewsheds along major transportation corridors and
protect these areas for their scenic and natural resource values.
7.8. OTHER KEY DOCUMENTS
Several documents were used as resources in the development of this Element and
are listed below. (See Section 1.2.5: Where to Look for Related Information if you
would like to obtain one of these documents.)
• Master Recreation and Parks Plan (1988)
• Recreation Dedication/Payment-In-Lieu Report(1 995)
• Executive Summary - Report of the .Joint Master Recreation and
Parks Work Group (2000)
0 ra4UJel C&U*tty ComprdwvvivevPla� Page 7-15
Chapter 8: Services and Facilities Element
Objective WW-6:
Develop and implement a process whereby the responsibilities and
duties associated with the operation and management of package
sewage treatment plants are specified as a requirement of the
permitting process for such facilities.
Objective WW-7:
Revisit and revise the Water Sewer Management Planning and
Boundary Agreement to ensure consistency with the Future Land Use
Map and land use categories. (See also Land Use Objective LU-6.2.)
Objective WW-8:
Reduce the number of requests from utility authorities and others for
plan and zoning amendments needed to accommodate public water
and wastewater facilities.
Objective WW-9:
Ensure that public water and sewer services are provided in those
areas that can be practically and efficiently served by these facilities,
as provided in the Orange County-Chapel Hill-Carrboro joint Planning
Agreement and Land Use Plan, and as delineated in the Water and
Sewer Management Planning and Boundary Agreement, as well as any
inter-local government agreement that implements the Agreement.
Services and Community Facilities Goal 2: Adequate, safe,
and healthy groundwater withdrawal and wastewater disposal
systems with minimal impacts upon water and land resources.
Objective WW-10:
Ensure that all development projects of a dense character have
access to clean, safe, and reliable water supplies.
Objective WW-11:
Increase educational efforts that increase citizen understanding of
water quality problems and the need for water conservation. (See
also Water Resources Objective WR-2.)
Objective WW-12:
Prohibit package sewage treatment plants in the Watershed Critical
Areas.
Objective WW-13:
Prohibit the establishment of public water and sewer services in the
areas designated as Watershed Critical Areas, except to address
emergency public health situations.
Objective WW-14:
Designate prime reservoir sites in the County, and protect those sites
from adverse development. (See also Natural Areas Objectives NA-5
and NA-1 7 and Land Use Objective LU-2.2.)
Objective WW-15:
Prohibit commercial and industrial land uses from locating and/or
expanding within identified Watershed Critical Areas. (See also
Economic Development Objective ED-2.7 and Land Use Objective LU-
2.5.)
Ora4WC0V*1ty Compreh�e PLanv Page 8-13
Chapter 8: Services and Facilities Element
8.4.2. EROSION CONTROL AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
Orange County's Erosion Control Division is charged with enforcing Eounty
the Erosion Control and Stormwater Ardinanees provisions of the Orange
County Unified Development Ordinance, including inspections of land
development, and review of erosion control plans. These provisions of the
Ordinances regulate land development activities to ensure that watersheds
are protected from adverse affects of development, and that grading and
site development do not create hazardous stormwater flows. The division
also administers the Neuse Buffer Rules and participates in regional
watershed planning initiatives.
The Erosion Control division reviews land disturbance activities and erosion
control plans countywide, including parts of Durham County annexed by
Chapel Hill. Disturbance of more than 20,000 feet in a non-protected
watershed and disturbance of more than 10,000 square feet in a protected
watershed must obtain pre-approval from Erosion Control and applicants are
required to submit an erosion control plan. The County holds several
agreements with the municipalities for enforcement, including enforcement
of Hillsborough's National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Phase II
Stormwater Program and erosion control enforcement in Chapel Hill,
Carrboro, Hillsborough, and the portion of Mebane in Orange County. In
addition, the division develops educational materials and conducts
educational programs related to erosion control, stormwater runoff
pollution, stream buffers, and water quality protection.
Of the 32 local governments in the Neuse River Basin, Orange County was
the first and only to receive delegated authority from the state
Environmental Management Commission to enforce the Neuse Rules. Any
land disturbance in University Lake, Cane Creek, and the Upper Eno
watersheds are reviewed by the division. Entities with the power of eminent
domain, such as the Department of Transportation, University of North
Carolina, OWASA, and School Districts, are regulated by the state. Orange
County does monitor some of these entities through various voluntary
agreements, such as a written request from the Chapel Hill-Carrboro School
System to monitor Carrboro High School. Map 8-3 identifies the watersheds
where Neuse River Basin erosion control measures are required.
Ora*qe,Co uity Ccawpre wwt,&ive Pla vv Page 8-15
,
Chapter 8: Services and Facilities Element
• Needed improvements to ongoing surface water
mapping in the County; and
• Needed additional water quality data to inform
inspection and watershed protection programs.
8.4.2.3. OBJECTIVES
The intent of this Plan is that this list of objectives will help guide
regular and ongoing decisions-making by the County related to
regulation of erosion control and stormwater systems. Each objective
has a recommended timeline for completion. (Definitions of timelines
provided in Section 1.4: Administration and Implementation
Guidelines.)
Services and Community Facilities Goal 5: Efficient and
effective drainage, stormwater, floodplain management, and
erosion control systems.
Objective ECA:
Continue to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for stormwater
control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoning Unified
Development Ordinance,
Coiitre' Ordinance, to minimize potential adverse impacts on the
water quality. (See also Land Use Objective LU-2.3, Natural Areas
Objective NA-4 and Water Resources Objective WR-20.)
Objective EC-2:
Protect and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological quality
and integrity of water supply reservoirs.
Objective EC-3:
Prohibit activities that adversely affect surface and ground water
systems that may serve or do serve as a public water supply.
Objective EC-4:
Use low-impact stormwater design principles when developing new
or retrofitting existing drainage systems that do not functionally
approximate the natural drainage pattern.
Objective EC-5:
Minimize sedimentation and erosion to reduce the transport of
sediment and pollutants to surface waters.
Objective EC-6:
Protect and maintain the existing aquatic, riparian and terrestrial
habitats-of fish and wildlife.
Objective EC-7:
Prevent flood damage to public and private property.
Objective EC-8:
Protect the absorptive, purifying and retentive functions of the
natural systems existing in the County.
Ora WCotu ty C&vnpreRe+u e�Plaav Page 8-18
Chapter 8: Services and Facilities Element
away from these areas through land use and zoning policies and
regulations.
Objective LU-2.3:
Require non-residential and higher-density residential developments
within Transition Areas to use Best Management Practices (BMP's) for
stormwater control, as outlined within the Orange County Zoning
Unified Development Ordinance
to ensure that potential adverse impacts on the water quality of
existing and proposed reservoir sites.
Objective LU-2.7*:
Refine green building standards to guide the design, siting,
construction, and management of publicly owned and managed
buildings in a manner that conserves energy and/or uses non-
polluting renewable energy sources. Explore the development of green
building standards for private development. (See also Air and Energy
Objective AE-1 1.)
Objective LU-2.5:
Adopt and implement policies that specify appropriate land uses and
intensities of development in Protected and Critical Water Resource
Areas that will not have potential adverse impacts on water resources.
Objective LU-3.1*:-
Discourage urban sprawl, encourage a separation of urban and rural
land uses, and direct new development into areas where necessary
community facilities and services exist through periodic updates to the
Land Use Plan. (See also Economic Development Objective ED-2.8.)
Objective LU-3.2*:
Coordinate land use patterns to facilitate the expanded use of non-
auto modes of travel, the increased occupancy of automobiles, and the
development and use of an energy-efficient transportation system.
(See also Transportation Objective T-1.1, Economic Development
Objective ED-2.3, and Air and Energy Resources AE-8.)
Objective LU-3.6:-
Establish consistency between the Land Use Plan and the Water and
Sewer Management Planning and Boundary Agreement and Map.
Objective LU-4.2*:
Review and amend the Orange County Zoning and Subdivision
erdinanees Unified Development Ordinance to identify and eliminate
existing regulatory impediments to objectives identified in the
Comprehensive Plan. Such objectives include the development of
energy efficient buildings within the County, and development of
affordable housing.
Ora4V.e,Cawity Cotnprehetu ve,Pla. Page 8-49
Appendix F: Land Use and Zoning Matrix
Appendix F. Relationships Between Land
Use Categories Classifications and Zoning
Districts Mafri'xx
Per the Orange County Zoning Unified Development Ordinance, zoning districts are
applied to each the Land Use Elerrtemt tategeries classifications and overlays as
follows in accordance with this appendix. A matrix is provided at the end of this
appendix that yes links the zoning districts applied to eategery the
land use classifications and overlays listed.
TRANSITION LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS
CHAPEL HILL AND CARRBORO TRANSITION.-
On November 2, 1987, a Joint Planning Agreement was adopted by Orange County
and the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro. The Agreement became effective on
November 14, 1988, following the adoption, by Orange County, of zoning plans
prepared by the two municipalities for their respective Transition Areas. The
applied zoning districts are those contained in the Chapel Hill Land Development
Ordinance and the Carrboro Land Use Ordinance, and are consistent with the land
use plan categories contained in the Orange County Chapel Hill Carrboro Joint
Planning Land Use Plan. Reference should be made to the appropriate municipal
ordinance and zoning map for a description of the districts and applicable
development standards. Under the terms of the joint Planning Agreement, the
Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro are responsible for permit administration within
their respective Transition Areas.
,COUNTY RESIDENTIAL:TRANSITION 10-YearTransitionr-
Identifies areas changing from rural to urban in form and density. All densities of
residential development would be appropriate. Non-residential uses implemented
in accordance with small area plans and/or overlay districts may be appropriate.
The applied zoning districts include: R-1 (low density Rural Residential); R-2 (Low
Intensity Residential), R-3 (Medium Intensity Residential), and R-4 (niedium density
Medium Intensity Residential); and R-5 (High Intensity Residential), R-8 (High
Intensity Residential), and R-13 (high density High Intensity Residential) residential
uses, and Zoning Overlay Districts.
r'QUISITY RE IRENT1 AI T__R kNSITIA�1 X20-Year Transition
_ _ I_Tl V 1�1 l
Identifies areas changing from rural to urban in form and density. All densities of
residential development would be appropriate. The applied zoning districts
include: R-1 (1"ow—de" Rural Residential); R-2 (Low intensity Residential), R-3
(Medium Intensity Residential), and R-4 (meditim de Medium Intensity
Residential); and R-5 (High Intensity Residential), R-8 (High Intensity Residential),
and R-13 (h gh--de" High Intensity Residential) residential uses.
COUNTY
Or"#e,,Ccu -0 Ccvnprehe�e Pla w Page i=1
Appendix F: Land Use and Zoning Matrix
chmighig frorn rural to urban in form and density All of
development would be appropricUc. tmes implemented
n aecordance with small area plans and/or overlay distriets may be appropriate.
The applied zonitig districts inelude, R 1 (low density), R 2, R 3, and R 4 (niedium
density), and R 5, R 8, and R 113 (high density) residential uses, and Zoning Overlay
EQ-b�COMMERCIAL TRANSITION ACTIVITY NODE:
Identifies areas changing from rural to urban in form and density. A full range of
intensities of commercial development would be appropriate. The applied zoning
districts include: LC-1 (Local Commercial); NC 2 (Neighborhood Commercial); CC-3
(Community Commercial); GC-4 (General Commercial); and 0/1 (Officezaltd
Institutional). , and ED (Economic Development).
C9 COMMERCIAL-INDUSTRIAL TRANSITION ACTIVITY NODE--
Identifies areas changing from rural to urban in form and density. A full range of
commercial and industrial activities would be appropriate and allowed. The applied
zoning districts include: 1-1 (Light Industrial); 1-2 (Medium Industrial); 1-3 (Heavy
Industrial); LC-1 (Local Commercial); NC-2 (Neighborhood Commercial); CC-3
(Community Commercial); GC-4 (General Commercial); and 0/1 (Office/Institutional).
and Eeomomie Development).
00— "" LANE) CARRBOROTRANSiTiON-.
6W�;;mber 2, 1987, a joint Planiiing Agreement was adopted by 6range EountyF
and the Towns of Chapel I lill and C-arrboro. The Agreement became effeetive oft
prepared by the two for their respective Transition Areas. The
applied zening distriets are those contained in the Ehapel Land Development
Ordinance and the Garrboro Land Use Ordinance, and are cenMstent with, -1h,e 'and
tire plan categeries contained in the erange Eotinty Chapel Hill Eari-bore joint
Plaiinhig Lajid Use Plan. Referenee should be made to the appropriate rMt1mic*paI
ordinance and ?onijig map for a description of the districts and applicable
development standards. Under the ternis of the Joint Planiiing Agreement, the
Towns of Ehapel 1 1:11 and Eart-boro etre responsible for permit administration within
their respeetive Transiflon Areas.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT TRANSITION ACTIVITY NODE:-
Identifies areas along major transportation corridors that may be in proximity to 10-
Year or 20-Year Transition areas of the County which have been specifically targeted
for economic development activity.. consisting of light industrial, distribution, flex
space, office, and service/retail uses. Such areas are located adjacent to interstate
and major arterial highways, and subject to special design criteria and performance
standards. The applied zoning districts are EDB-1
(Economic Development Buckhorn Lower Intensity), EDB-2 (Economic Development
Buckhorn Higher Intensity), EDE-1(Economic Development Eno Lower Intensity), EDE-
2 (Economic Development Eno Higher Intensity), EDH-1 (Economic Development
Hillsborough Linear Office), EDH-2 (Economic Development Hillsborough Limited
OrafW�CCUmy ConVrah.en4; &Flaw Page F-2
Appendix F: Land Use and Zoning Matrix
Office), EDH-3 (Economic Development Hillsborough Limited Office with
Residential), EDH-4 (Economic Development Hillsborough Office), EDH-5 (Economic
Development Hillsborough Office/Flex).
RURAL LAND USE CLASSIFICATIONS
RURAL BUFFER.
Only very low density residential and agricultural uses are appropriate in the Rural
Buffer. The applied zoning district is RB (Rural Buffer).
RURAL RESIDENTIAL.
Identifies rural areas to be developed as low intensity and low density residential.
The applied zoning district is R-1 (fow-de ) Rural Residential).
AGRICULTURAL RESIDENTIAL.
Agricultural activities and associated residential and commercial uses predominate.
The applied zoning districts reflect this primary land use and include: AR
(Agricultural Residential) and AS (Agricultural Services).
RURAL COMMUNITY ACTIVITY NODE.
Identifies rural crossroads communities throughout the County where small scale
commercial activities serving the community and surrounding area are appropriate.
The applied zoning districts include: LC-1 (Local Commercial) and NC-2
(Neighborhood Commercial).
RURAL NEIGHBORHOOD ACTIVITY NODE.
Identifies areas in the County where small scale commercial uses serving the
population in the surrounding area are appropriate. The applied zoning districts
include: LC-1 (Local Commercial) and NC-2 (Neighborhood Commercial).
RURAL INDUSTRIAL ACTIVITY NODE.
Identifies rural areas in the County where small scale industrial activities would be
appropriate. The applied zoning district is 1-1 (Light Industrial).
OVERLAYS
PUBLIC INTEREST AREA.
These lands are considered valuable for recreational and research purposes and are
afforded special treatment. The applied zoning district is PID (Public Interest
District).
Development)
Ora WCou*tty Compreh'?'+ ve platy Page F-3
Appendix F: Land Use and Zoning Matrix
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Ora VV CM 1.ty Conprehe vU e,Flaw Page F-4
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Chapel Hill Transition
Permit Administration by Municipalities under the provisions of the Joint Planning Agreement -
Carrboro Transition
Contact appropriate Municipality for applicable Zoning Standards
I0 -Year Transition
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Economic Development
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♦
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Rural Neighborhood
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Appendix F: Land Use and Zoning Matrix
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Ora4I#e/COU*Itty ComPre wwive1Plaw Page F-6
Appendix G: Future Land Use EnteqM Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Appendix G. Future Land Use Category
Classification and Overlay Locational Criteria
The land use classifications and overlays are determined by
a set of locational criteria specific to each classification. Land in the County was
evaluated using the following set of criteria in order to determine the suitability of
certain locations to contain various land uses. The locational criteria include:
• Land/Slope
• Hydrology
• Flora and Fauna
• Soil Conditions
• Public Services/Utilities
• Transportation System
• Energy Use
• Existhig Land Use Placement
• Agriculture and Forestry
• Population Density
• Historic and Cultural Features
Table OC 1 provides the specific locational criteria for each land use classification.
TABLE G-l: FUTURE LAND USE CLASSIFICIATION AND OVERLAY LOCATIONAL
CRITERIA
Future Land Use PI&n
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
OrafWCou*ity Cc-nVreJievi,,Cve PLa,w Page ra-1
Appendix G: Future Land Use Categor Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Wan
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No evaluation.
• Hydrology: No evaluation.
• Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
• Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
• Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas which are or could be
M reasonably and effectively served by centralized public services and
W utilities.
o Urban {BfVELEPEB) ■ Transportation System: No evaluation
> ■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
p Placement: Located within the municipal
boundaries or transition ar Extra-Territorial Jurisdiction (ETJ) of the
Towns of Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough, and or the City of
Mebane.
• Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation.
• Population Density: No evaluation.
• Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
- Land/Slopeo No evaluation.
- Hydrology. No evalti L_
- Flora and Fauna: No eva'tiatRon.
I
• .
utilities.reasonably and effectively served by centralized publie serviees and
O Existing U,ban Transportation System. No evaltiation
-@ Activity N - Energy Use: No evaluation
> OPEB� ` Existing Land Use Placement: Located v6thmn the identified Urban
tnd Forestry. No evaluatiom.
poptilation densities.
Historoc and Cultural. Located away from areas where development
tild have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
•
•
0raA0.e/Cou+Uy Cc"Vre wvts-ve,Pkwt. Page G-2
y
Appendix G: Future Land Use f;ategary Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use err
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: No significant slope or topography problem that would
unreasonably increase the cost of extending water and sewer lines.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas as
identified by the Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas
and wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site
design and construction practices in accordance with County, State and
Federal requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for urban uses because of good drainage characteristics and
load bearing capacity for site development.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas which are or could be
= 10-Year Transition reasonably and efficiently served by centralized public services and
o utilities.
& 20 Year Transportation System: Located in areas that have very good road
IA c Transition access, as well as service by rail lines. These areas should have the
i Areas most complete transportation network in the county's planning
F-
jurisdiction.
■ Energy Use: Located within less than a 5-minute commuting time
from small-scale commercial uses and a 5-10 minute commuting time
from major commercial uses or an Urban area.
• Existing Land Use Placement: Located in areas which are in
transition from rural or low-density uses to urban or higher density
uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located away from areas where
development would have a detrimental impact on productive
agricultural uses and managed forest land.
■ Population Density: Located in areas with moderate to high
population densities.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or county identified Public Interest Areas.
Ora*tge,Cottnty Covvprehe wwe Plow Page G-3
Appendix G: Future Land Use Categer Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use F4ait
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays,
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with slopes of less than 15% grade.
Where slopes of 15% or greater are present, protection shall be
provided through proper site design and construction practices.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas as
identified by Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas and
wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site design
and construction practices in accordance with County, State and Federal
requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for urban uses because of good drainage characteristics and
load bearing capacity for site development.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas which are or could be
Commercial reasonably and efficiently served by centralized public services and
c utilities.
Transition Activity Transportation System: Foeus-ed—err Located at the intersection of
Node
arterial and/or collector highways or in proximity to other major
Im (TRANSIT-1
transportation networks. and extending 0.5mi es beyond
nterseetions or within one mile of an hiterstate
■ Energy Use: Located within less than a 10 minute commute from an
Urban area.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located within identified Ten or
Twenty Year Transition areas. Located in areas near major
transportation routes that could be provided with public water and
wastewater services and is appropriate for retail and other commercial
uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located away from areas where
development would have a detrimental impact on productive
agricultural uses and managed forest land.
■ Population Density: Located in areas with moderate to high
population densities.
Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
0ra.vge.Caunty Co-mpprehe,v e,PI c vv Page G-4
Appendix G: ire Land Use Categer Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Pfait
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with slopes of less than 15% grade.
Where slopes of 15% or greater are present, protection shall be
provided through proper site design and construction practices.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas as
identified by Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas and
wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site design
and construction practices in accordance with County, State and Federal
requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for urban uses because of good drainage characteristics and
load bearing capacity for site development.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas which are or could be
Commercial- reasonably and efficiently served by centralized public services and
C Industrial utilities.
Transition Activity Transportation System: Focused-on Located at the intersection of
= Node arterial and/or collector highways or in proximity to other major
L
transportation networks.
nterseetioiis or within one mile of an interstate interchange and within
1,000 feet of ra" lines.
■ Energy Use: Located within less than a 10 minute commute from an
Urban area.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located within identified Ten or
Twenty Year Transifien areas. Located in areas near major
transportation routes that could be provided with public water and
wastewater services, which are appropriate for non-residential and
higher density residential uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located away from areas where
development would have a detrimental impact on productive
agricultural uses and managed forest land.
■ Population Density: Located in areas with moderate to high
population densities.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
OravWC&u*itty Co"Vrahevw-ive,,Plavv Page G-5
Appendix G: future Land Use Catego , Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Wait
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with slopes of less than 15% grade.
Where slopes of 15% or greater are present, protection cart-shall be
provided through proper site design and construction practices.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas and areas
where wetlands are present. Where flood prone special flood hazard
areas and wetlands exist, protection cast shall be provided through
proper site design and construction practices in accordance with
County, State and Federal requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located in areas where detrimental development
impacts on local, state, or federally-acknowledged unique or
endangered species, and wildlife habitats and corridors can be
mitigated through proper site design and construction practices.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for development because of good drainage characteristics and
load-bearing capacity for development.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas which are or could be
reasonably and efficiently served by centralized public services and
facilities. When located in areas where such services and facilities are
not present or planned, general soil conditions must be suitable for on-
= Economic site sewage disposal systems.
o Development Transportation System: Located in areas adjacent to interstate and
N {Transition3 major arterial highways, particularly those with the potential for
= Activity Node providing access to public transit facilities.
e�
Energy Use: Located within 10 minutes commuting time from an
Urban area and designed so that business uses provided within
developments limit the number of short distance commutes for goods
and services.
■ Existirig Land Use Placement: Located in designated Ten or
Year Transition Areas. Located in areas adjacent to interstate highways
and other major transportation routes specifically targeted for
economic development activity, such as light industrial, distribution,
and retail uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located away from areas where
development would have a detrimental impact upon productive
agricultural uses and managed forest land, and/or where the existing
landscape character can be maintained through proper site design and
construction practices.
■ Population Density: Located in areas with moderate to high
population densities.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located in areas where detrimental
development impacts on local, state, or federally-acknowledged
historic, cultural, and/or archaeological sites, or county-designated
Public Interest Areas does not exist or can be mitigated through proper
site desi n and construction practices.
OravWCou*-ty CamprMe4u,ive'Pla vv Page G-6
Appendix G: Future Land Use Categot Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Pf&n
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No evaluation.
• Hydrology: No evaluation.
• Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for on-site sewage disposal and agricultural uses.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas that will not require urban-
Rural Buffer type services.
3 ■ Transportation System: No evaluation.
Ce ■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located in areas directly outside of
Transition and Urban areas where prevailing uses are rural residential
and agricultural in nature.
• Agriculture and Forestry: See Existing Land Use Placement.
• Population Density: Located in areas with a very low-density rural
population.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with an overall slope of less than 15%
grade. Where slopes of 15% or greater are present, protection shall be
provided through proper site design and construction practices.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prune areas as
identified by the Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas
and wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site
design and construction practices in accordance with County, State and
Federal requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
Rural Residential suitable for on-site sewage disposal systems.
Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas that will not require urban-
type services.
■ Transportation System: No evaluation.
■ Energy Use: Located in areas at least 5 minutes commuting time
from an activity node.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located in association with other low-
density rural residential uses in general proximity to developed or
developing activity nodes.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located away from areas that would, if
developed, have a detrimental impact on productive agricultural and
managed forest land.
■ Population Density: Located in areas of rural population density,
generally one dwelling unit per acre.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
0 ra iW,Cau*-t y C omp re4wAuiive,P law Page G-7
r
Appendix G: Futur¢ Land Use Catego, Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Plan
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No evaluation.
• Hydrology: No evaluation.
• Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
• Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
good for agriculture production.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services,
especially water and sewer lines, are not needed and should be
Agricultural- discouraged.
Residential ■ Transportation System: No evaluation.
■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
a Existing Land Use Placement: Located in areas where the prevailing
activity is agriculture or forestry and which is outside of non-farm
clusters of population.
• Agriculture and Forestry: See Existing Land Uses Placement.
• Population Density: Located in areas of very low population density
which is dispersed in a manner typical of agriculturally productive
areas.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
• Land/Slope: Located on land with slopes of less than 15% grade.
• Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas as
identified by Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas and
wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site design
and construction practices in accordance with County, State and Federal
requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
suitable for on-site sewage disposal systems.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas that will not require urban-
_ Rural Community type services.
e° Activity Node ■ Transportation System: Focused on the intersection of arterial
and/or collector highways and extending 0.5miles beyond such
intersections.
• Energy Use: No evaluation.
• Existing Land Use Placement: Location characterized by a cross-road
that serves as a focal area for the surrounding rural and farm
population and contains three or more commercial or institutional land
uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located at sites within rural areas that
would not unreasonably intrude upon the existing landscape character.
■ Population Density: Located in areas which would serve the
surrounding low-density rural and agricultural population, generally
1,000-5,000 persons.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
oraytW,Coanty C&wLprehe,�&?slaw Page G7-8
Appendix G: Futur Land Use Cam. Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use P+&n
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with an overall slope of less than 15%
grade.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prune areas as
identified by the Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas
and wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site
design and construction practices in accordance with County, State and
Federal requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
Rural create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
Neighborhood state or federal government.
Activity Node ■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
(RURAL) suitable for on-site sewage disposal systems.
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas that will not require urban-
type services.
i Transportation System: Focused on the intersection of arterial
and/or collector highways and extending 0.25 miles beyond such
intersections.
■ Energy Use: Located at least two miles from another Rural
Neighborhood Activity Node.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located in an area surrounded by
rural or agricultural residential uses and containing one or two
commercial uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located at sites within rural areas that
would not unreasonably intrude upon the existing landscape character.
■ Population Density: Located in areas which would serve the
surrounding low-density rural and agricultural population, generally
less than 1,000 persons.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental 'impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
Orai#e,Cou ityComprehevm e.,Pla. Paget-9
Appendix G: Futur Land Use Categoy Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use PJ&n
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: Located on land with an overall slope of less than 15%
grade.
■ Hydrology: Located outside of 100-year flood prone areas as
identified by the Corps of Engineers. Where special flood hazard areas
and wetlands exist, protection shall be provided through proper site
design and construction practices in accordance with County, State and
Federal requirements.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located away from sites that would, if developed,
create a threat to unique or endangered species as identified by the
state or federal government.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where general soil conditions are
Rural Industrial suitable for on-site sewage disposal systems.
Activity Node Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas that will not require urban-
type services.
Transportation System: Focused on the intersection of arterial
and/or collector highways and extending 0.5 miles beyond such
intersections.
■ Energy Use: Located at least five miles from another Rural Industrial
Activity Node.
■ Existing Land Use Placement: Located in an area surrounded by
rural, very low-density residential uses, or agricultural uses.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located at sites within rural areas that
would not unreasonably intrude upon the existing landscape character.
■ Population Density: Located in areas with a very low-density rural
population.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located away from areas where development
would have a detrimental impact on state or federally acknowledged
historic-cultural sites or County identified Public Interest Areas.
0ravWCM"Aty C"Trehe+i4i &Pla n. Page G-10
Appendix G: Futur@ Land Use ferry Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Wait
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
- Flora and Fauna. No eva-huatoom.
agriculture produetiom7
esPec ally water and"evver lines, are not meeded and should be
Agrmeukura' Areas °age�d-
ro
(RURAL) = Transportati d in areas with access to rcads that
ean be used for product transportatio-n-
L
_
.
• Existing Land Use Place ere the prevailing
activity is-agrieulture-and otitsode of nom fiarm clusters of popu4atioj-f-.
• Population Ben Setym-t-t�Y..ed in areas of very low Population de-r-la-Ity
which is dispersed in a mum". liculturally produetive
areas..
wou'd have a detrimental imPact On state or federally acknowled--j
- Land/Sloppe. Located on, I'and w6th slopes of less than 1596.
might affect water quality.
Flora and Fauna. Located away from S:tes -tII_j :.0
r-vm d, i, developed,
ereate a threat to unique or endangered spedes as identmffe�lte
state or federal government.
- Soil Comelotmons. Located-i.1-1 -areas vAe-re som' conditions and stability
are suitable for extractive operatloms-.
- Pubk Servoces/Utilities. Loeated im areas where urban type servi...,
especially water and sevver are not meeded and should be
a
i discouraged.-
roads that are designed for heavy veHele operati
- Energy Uses No evaluation.
� E A sting Land Use Place --ent. Located im areas where the preVaililig
Transportation System. Located om or neor mr-as with aceess to
a Agrocufture and Forestry. See Existing Land Uses Placement.
- Population Density, Located in areas of very low Population density
which is dispersed in a manner typical of rural areas.
Hmstorme and--E-ultural- Loeateud away from areas where
VCTUPTn
wou'd have a detrimental impact on state or federally aclknovVII 4 4
Ora*WCm"Ity Cot"rohen e�Ptc. Page G-11
n,,• `hen
Appendix G: Futup Land Use Categot Classification and
�4 Overlay Locational Criteria
Futum-e Land Use Pittn
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No limitation.
• Hydrology: Located in areas that may be within 100-year flood areas.
• Flora and Fauna: Located in areas that may contain unique and
endangered species as identified by state or federal government.
• Soil Conditions: No limitation.
• Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services,
especially water and sewer lines, are not needed and should be
discouraged.
a Public Interest • Transportation System: Located in areas where arterial or collector
tv Area highways would not exist or be needed.
■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
p m Existing Land Use Placement: Located in areas containing
specialized uses, generally owned by public or quasi-public institutions.
• Agriculture and Forestry: No limitations.
• Population Density: Located in areas which by their nature would
have an extremely low-density population or contain no permanent
residential population.
Historic and Cultural: Located in areas that may have historic or
cultural values as identified by state or federal governments or the
county.
■ Land/Slope: No limitation.
■ Hydrology: Integral to Land Use Plan Category Overlay.
■ Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
Water Supply ■ Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
!� Watershed ■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services
especially water and sewer lines should be discouraged unless a Teri
p 10-Year or y20-Year Transition area is present.
• Transportation System: No evaluation.
• Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation
• Population Density: No evaluation.
• Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
Ora*tge/Co-u.nty Comprehens-�ve/Flaw Page (�-12
Appendix G: Future Land Use Categor Classification and
`••�`'' Overlay Locational Criteria
i
Future Land Use ?Farr
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No evaluation.
• Hydrology: Located in areas which drain directly to a water supply
impoundment by overland flow and interflow or which drain directly to
the main channel of trunk stream feeding the impoundment.
■ Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
Watershed Critical ■ Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
ro Area ■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas characterized by low-
to residential minimal non-residential development.
> ■ Transportation System: No evaluation.
O ■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
Placement: Located in areas which are
characterized by a low density residential and minimal non-residential
development.
• Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation.
• Population Density: Located in areas with low population densities.
■ Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
• Land/Slope: No limitation.
• Hydrology: Located where a body of water, such as a pond or lake,
confined by a dam or other barrier, is to be used for public water
supply from which water flows by gravity or is pumped directly to a
treatment plant or to a small intervening storage basin and thence to a
treatment plant.
■ Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
>, Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
5 Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services
Reservoir, Class I especially water and sewer lines should be discouraged unless a 10-
O Year or 20-Year Transition area is present.'
• Transportation System: No evaluation.
• Placement: Located where a body of water, such as a pond or lake,
confined by a dam or other barrier, is to be used for public water
supply
• Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation
• Population Density: No evaluation.
• Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
Orp vtq,e,C&"+Itty C&mpreh.e�na e Plc Page (�-13
Appendix G: Riture Land Use Categoy Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Wait
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
• Land/Slope: No limitation.
• Hydrology: Located where a body of water, such as a pond or lake,
confined by a dam or other barrier, is to be used for public water
supply from which water flows by gravity or is pumped to a Class I
reservoir prior to final entrance to a water treatment plant
■ Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
■ Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
• Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services
Reservoir, Class II especially water and sewer lines should be discouraged unless a 10-
0 Year or 20-Year Transition area is present.'
• Transportation System: No evaluation.
• Placement: Located where a body of water, such as a pond or lake,
confined by a dam or other barrier, is to be used for public water
supply
• Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation
• Population Density: No evaluation.
■ Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
• Land/Slope: May be located in areas where slopes are 15%or greater.
• Hydrology: May be located in areas with wetlands and 100-year
floodplain areas along drainage tributaries or adjacent to steep slopes.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located in areas that contain significant and natural
areas and wildlife habitats, including connecting wildlife corridors, as
identified by local, state, or federal inventories.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas that contain alluvial and/or hydric
(wet soils).
■ Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services
will not be required and should be discouraged.
Resource ■ Transportation System: Located in areas where arterial or collector
to Protection Area highways would not exist or be needed.
■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
p m Existing Land Use Placement: Located in areas that are best left
undeveloped because of their limitations or unsuitability for
development, and/or preserved because of the presence of
environmentally sensitive features and/or historically significant sites.
• Agriculture and Forestry: See Existing Land Uses Placement.
• Population Density: Located in areas which by their nature would
have no permanent residential population.
■ Historic and Cultural: Located in areas containing historic and/or
archaeological sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places,
included on the National Register Study List, designated as a local
historic district or landmark, and/or identified as having a high
otential for archaeological remains.
Ora+tqeCowv►.ty Compreheui vePla� Page G-14
Appendix G: Future Land Use Categoi Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use Ptan
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
■ Land/Slope: Located in areas where slope varies from gradual along
floodplains to 20%and above.
■ Hydrology: Located primarily along New Hope Creek and its
tributaries, including the 100-year floodplain. Designated as
"Important Regional Wetland" by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
■ Flora and Fauna: Located in areas which contain great diversity,
including regionally rare plant species, hardwood trees of size and
number uncommon for their location, and important wildlife habitat.
■ Soil Conditions: Located in areas where soils vary from well-drained,
moderately steep firm clay to nearly level alluvial soils subject to
New Hope Creek flooding.
Corridor Open - Public Services/Utilities: Located in areas where urban-type services
Space will not be required and should be discouraged.
■ Transportation System: Located in areas where the principal form of
ro transportation will be bike paths and pedestrian trails located adjacent
> (refer to the New to the rights-of-way of interstate highways and minor arterials.
Hope Corridor Open ' Energy Use: No evaluation.
Space Master Plan Placement: Located in areas that are generally
for details.) undeveloped due to slope or soil limitations, in addition to specialized
use areas in Duke Forest, and paths/trails adjacent to or within road
rights-of-way. Located primarily along New Hope Creek and its
tributaries, including the 100-year floodplain.
■ Agriculture and Forestry: Located in areas which may be suitable for
agriculture and forestry, with the exception of steep slopes. See
also Existing nd-Use Placement.
■ Population Density: Located in areas which by their nature would be
very low density residential areas. Portions in Duke Forest are not for
residential use.
■Historic and Cultural: Located in areas which may have sites and/or
structures of historic or cultural value as identified by federal, state, or
county government.
Ora+W Co- *Lty C&mprehevv,dve Kct,v Page G-15
Appendix G: mare Land Use Categot Classification and
Overlay Locational Criteria
Future Land Use PM-n
Classifications and Locational Criteria
Overlays
Stoney Creek Basin ■ Land/Slope: No evaluation.
■ Hydrology: Located within the boundaries of the 4,696 acre Stoney
Creek Drainage Basin southeast of the Town of Hillsborough in portions
(refer to the Spring of Hillsborough, Eno, and Chapel Hill Townships.
1995 UNC Students' ■ Flora and Fauna: No evaluation.
Report - "Three ■ Soil Conditions: No evaluation.
ro Development ■ Public Services/Utilities: No evaluation..
Options: ■ Transportation System: No evaluation.
OConventional, ■ Energy Use: No evaluation.
Density-Neutral, Placement: No evaltiatiom. Located within the
Neo-Traditional" and boundaries of the 4,696 acre Stoney Creek Drainage Basin southeast of
the Stoney Creek the Town of Hillsborough in portions of Hillsborough, Eno, and Chapel
Basin Small Area Hill Townships.
Plan for more ■ Agriculture and Forestry: No evaluation.
details.) ■ Population Density: No evaluation.
■ Historic and Cultural: No evaluation.
Ora.vWCounty Co-vvprehev,Gve,Pla,v Page G-16
Future Land Use'Element.-t Map Attachment 4
v��v
of the Orange County Comprehensive Plan
Caswell County 1 sRo
-�en 1 Rp�E h�"�` / { � � Person County
4ria,0. r " -_.' -- _.GpAY..„. ,. .ti..,..,,. _
e 1
•I '. ....:4''' „... '. ''.::--141P8,P1♦ � O'p.l� YY..
-
I-,-.: ' /1', 4,1,- . rs i„. .. ' .--- T4 7
—1' ,.. ' ..' -''s.- , ' ' .V6. opoi -.�4�5g'
100
�.;% at�T"€) f '`�r`,v,A, ,oa, rte,- :RI r '.r"`k -`n 0., "#‘ WA..''-'464.1 . . ''. ''''''.' ,-—.1' k 7-4-, .--., --,---'7' Vf-li
4 4
i - r r S A+ !'vit"°/ems �' S'y -y j �, - , _ r ♦-,t1 o•R '
�T ^nl`' ,I t y •�'
`ill. ,� ! !I' ;L!. ' �. �' �. .9„..i..461),
E `o i - 'fit ✓ r �' "::
Upon motion of Commissioner seconded by
Commissioner the aforementioned
2030 C mprehensive Plan amendments were adopted this the day of
2012 and shall become effective upon adoption.
I, Donna S. Baker, Clerk to the Board of Commissioners for Orange County, DO
HEREBY CERTIFY that the foregoing is a true copy of o much of the
proceedings of said Board at a meeting held on
2012 as relates in any way to the adoption of the foregoing and that said
proceedings are recorded in the minutes of the said Board.
9�-
ITNESS my hand and the seal of said County, this day of
, 2012.
zy s>. Donna Ba er, erk, range County Commissioners
jL