CRC Approves new Oceanfront Construction Rules

CRC approves new static vegetation line & setback criteria for beaches:

After months of debate the Coastal Resources Commission finally approved two measures that will now allow new structures on nourished beaches to be built closer to the ocean, as well as adopted new graduated setback criteria for residential and commercial structures. Your BASE Governmental Affairs staff was instrumental in providing key comments to the staff at CAMA, as well as to the Coastal Resources Commission.
CRC members, who unanimously approved the static line exception, stated that enough safeguards were in place to prevent a headlong rush of new structures vulnerable to the sea.  Some of these safeguards include a 2,500-square-foot limit on new beachfront homes and a requirement they not be closer to the surf than neighboring structures. Beach towns also have to wait five years after the start of a large-scale project, generally lasting at least 30 years, before seeking an exception allowance.  The CRC also adopted new graduated setback rules for oceanfront structures, forcing bigger buildings to be built farther back from the ocean.

In short, it would buy more time for larger buildings before they need to be removed or relocated due to unforeseen erosion. The new rule also would remove the distinction between homes and commercial structures (the use), instead basing the setback requirement on size and its overall impact.  To view or download a copy of the latest rule changes go to www.ncbase.org. If you have any questions please feel free to give our BASE Governmental Affairs Staff a call at 799-2611.

FINAL 07H.0306 rule language (1Oct2008)
FINAL 07J.1200 rule language (1Oct2008)