State Critical Area Commission Approves New Zoning and Subdivision Regulations

Annapolis, MD (June 3, 2005) - The Anne Arundel County Office of Planning and Zoning announced today that the Maryland Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays has completed its review of Council Bills 3-05 and 4-05. The Bills, which were approved by the County Council on March 21, 2005, were reviewed by the Commission for consistency with the State Critical Area Laws. On June 1, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the new code.

"The Commission’s decision is a significant milestone in the implementation of these new laws," said Joe Rutter, Anne Arundel County Planning and Zoning Officer. " I commend the Commission for the time its members and staff dedicated to the review and the important questions that were raised. This process highlights the positive working relationship that the Owens’ Administration and the Commission continue to maintain."

Some of the more significant changes to the code which further protect the Critical Area include:

• Net Density - The new code excludes certain land features such as steep slopes and tidal and non-tidal wetlands from being included in net density calculations.
• 30% Open Space Requirement - Under the new code, 30% of a development must be maintained as open space in a contiguous parcel. This provision will result in a substantial lot for community open space and provide further protection to natural features on the property.
• Intrafamily Transfer - Under the new code, intrafamily subdivision of land within the Critical Area is now prohibited.

The Commission has asked the County to clarify and make minor adjustments to some provisions in order to strengthen the intent of the code and make it more consistent with State language. The Office of Planning and Zoning plans to include these clarifications in legislation expected in the Fall.

Council Bills 3-05 and 4-05 became effective on May 12, 2005. The changes are reflected in Articles 21, 26 and 27. These Articles are available on-line and in print. The public may go to the AA County Code or obtain a printed copy from the Office of Planning and Zoning, Research and GIS Division, 4th Floor, 2664 Riva Road, Heritage Office Complex , Annapolis, Maryland 21401. The cost is $10.00 for a set that includes Articles 26 and 27, and $5.00 for Article 21.