§ 72-886. Buffer requirements.

(a)

A buffer not less than 25 feet in width shall be established adjacent to and surrounding all wetlands except adjacent to and surrounding all wetlands designated as Outstanding Florida Waters (OFW), or Natural Resource Management Area (NRMA). Wetland buffers greater than 25 feet in width may be required by the EMD if the upland activity adversely impacts the wetlands beneficial functions as provided for in section 72-881. The buffer may coincide with the setback on a lot under the zoning ordinance [article II of this chapter] or may coincide with environmental system corridors designated in the comprehensive plan. Provided, however, there shall be no development in the buffer, except for direct access to water bodies.

(b)

Development activities or construction which do not have a significant adverse effect on the natural function of the buffer may be allowed within the buffer. Proposed activities within the buffer may be permitted in accordance with the requirements of this division. The activities or construction which may be permitted include, but are not limited to, pruning, planting of suitable native vegetation, removal of exotic and nuisance pioneer plant species, and the creation and maintenance of walking trails.

(c)

A buffer not less than 50 feet in width shall be established adjacent to and surrounding all wetlands designated as OFW and NRMA. Provided, however, the buffer shall be a minimum of 25 feet in width if it is located on a lot with less than ten acres of area and is located within an approved subdivision recorded or exempted from the provisions of division 2 of this article prior to November 1, 1990.

(Ord. No. 89-52, § I, 12-7-89; Ord. No. 94-2, § 63, 4-7-94; Ord. No. 2008-25, § III, 12-4-08)