The Chesapeake Bay Critical Area extends a minimum of 1,000 feet landward of tidal waters and tidal wetlands of the Bay and its tributaries. State and local Critical Area legislation has been enacted for the protection of the Bay and its tributaries. These laws regulate all construction activities, including projects involving ground disturbance; removal and/or cutting of existing natural vegetation and installation of new or expanded impervious surfaces (asphalt, concrete, paving blocks and stone used for driveways, sidewalks, parking pads and the like.) Except for routine grass cutting and maintenance of existing garden and landscaped areas, removal of any existing natural vegetation within the Critical Area is subject to prior approval through the Code Compliance Division. Call (410) 222-7441 for information on obtaining a standard Buffer Management Plan or Forest Management Plan before cutting or having vegetation cut if your property is in the Critical Area. In Anne Arundel County, to find out if your property is located within the Critical Area, detailed maps are available for public review at the Heritage Office Complex in the first floor lobby at 2664 Riva Road, or call (410) 222-7445 with your street address or tax account number and your property’s location relative to the Critical Area will be checked for you. | 
