Advanced Core CAMA Land Use Plan Executive Summary-2005

CAMDEN COUNTY,
NORTH CAROLINA
ADVANCED CORE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Adopted by the Camden County Board of Commissioners: April 4, 2005
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: June 17, 2005
Prepared By:
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
with support from
Hobbs, Upchurch and Associates, P.A.
Nags Head, North Carolina
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided bythe Coastal Zone Management
Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

CAMDEN COUNTY,
NORTH CARO LI NA
ADVANCED CORE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Adopted by the Camden County Board of Commissioners: April 4, 2005
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: June 17, 2005
Prepared By:
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
with support from
Hobbs, Upchurch and Associates, P.A.
Nags Head, North Carolina
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided bythe Coastal Zone Management
Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

ADVANCED CORE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paje
1. PREFACE ..........................................................1
2. CAMDEN COUNTY COMMUNITY VISION .................................... 2
3. INTRODUCTION......................................................2
4. KEYISSUES..........................................................3
5.
DOMINANT GROWTH -RELATED ISSUES .................................... 5
6.
POPULATION SUMMARY................................................5
7.
HOUSING SUMMARY ......... ............... .......... ...........
7
8.
EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMY SUMMARY ......... ............. .........
7
9.
LAND USE SUMMARY..................................................8
10.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (WATER QUALITY, NATURAL HAZARDS,
AND NATURAL RESOURCES) ....... ........... .....................
. 9
11.
ANALYSIS OF LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT ...............................
13
1. Introduction......:............................................13
2. Land Use in Relation to Water Quality ...... ........ ... .......
14
12.
LAND USE/DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND IMPLEMENTING ACTIONS ...............
18
A. POLICIESAMPLEMENTING ACTIONS .................................
18
1. Introduction.............................................18
B. POLICIES REGARDING LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT IN AECS ...........
21
C. LAND USE PLAN MANAGEMENT TOPICS ... .. ...................
22
1. Introduction.............................................22
2. Impact of CAMA Land Use Plan Policies on Management Topics .. ..
22
3. Public Access ............................................
23
4. Land Use Compatibility ....................................
25
5. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity ..............................
33
6. Transportation ........................ .................36
7. Natural Hazard Areas .................... ................
39
8. Water Quality ............................................
41
9. Local Areas of Concern .....................................
46
10. Schedule................................................53
Table I Camden County, Region R, and North Carolina
Total Population and Percentage Change, 1970-2003 .................... 5
Table 2 Camden County Permanent and Peak Seasonal Population Forecast 2000-2015 6
Table 3 Camden County Total Acreage ...................................... 8
Table 4 Camden County Registered Animal Operations ........................12
Table 5 Pastquotank River Basin Population, Densities, and Land Area Summaries
for Camden County Subbasins ... ............................... . 13
Map I Camden County Subbasin Location.................................15

ADVANCED CORE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1. PREFACE
While the preparation of a comprehensive plan is required by the Coastal Area Management Act,
there are broader and equally important reasons to engage in the planning process. Basically,
planning begins with understanding your community and its people and learning how to care for
them. Local government plans and planning affect people's lives. Tough choices must be made
about the natural, manmade, and financial resources in the community. The county's budget
should be compared to the plan to ensure that public money will be spent in accordance with the
community's goals and objectives.
The planning process also serves to educate us about ourselves, our attitudes towards others, and
our willingness to share a sense of community. Planning is often promoted as a means of
community decision -making through public participation. But planning also may involve conflict
and friction because it may divide us into opposing groups. Some conflict in the planning process
is good. it stimulates us to think and reminds us of the need to understand and tolerate, and
even support, the opinions of others.
A county should not undertake the preparation of a land use plan without understanding that a
plan should be:
1. Comprehensive in setting goals and objectives for all aspects of the community.
2. Part of a continuous planning process that is timely and responsive to the needs
and desires of the community.
3. The legal basis for land use regulations and a guide for a capital improvements
plan for county budgeting.
Once the plan is prepared, the county must realize that the plan is not the end of the process.
The county must continuously work at accomplishing plan implementation and establishing an
effective planning program. Camden County must view the preparation of this document as the
first step in a continually evolving process. This plan is organized to adhere to the 15A NCAC 7B
requirements.
This is an Advanced Core Land Use Plan. The Core Plan and Advanced Core Plan are defined as
follows:

Core Plan: This plan addresses all of the plan elements in Rule .0702 of Section 7B
(Elements of CAMA Core and Advanced Core Land Use Plans) in a complete and
thorough manner. This type of plan is the standard CAMA Land Use Plan required
for all 20 coastal counties.
Advanced Core Plan: The plan prepared by local governments that, due to
consideration of specific local conditions, elect to exceed the core plan
requirements in two or more areas. This plan also may be used to help meet the
requirements of other planning programs, such as the Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA) Phase lI Stormwater requirements or hazard mitigation plans, that
address the CAMA goals, or to address issues of local concern (i.e., location of a
new industry or redevelopment after storm events).
This Advanced Core Land Use Plan exceeds the core plan requirements by including the following:
• Hazard Mitigation Plan and Post -Storm Recovery Plan.
• Future Land Suitability Analysis Map.
• Stormwater Management Analysis including EPA regulations.
• Numerous maps exceeding Core Plan requirements.
Village area and corridor studies and plans.
• Resource Conservation Management Action Plan/Policies for the non -village corridor areas.
The reader should not attempt to understand the plan by reading only several sections of the
document. All sections of the plan are inter -related. The reader should refer to the complete
Camden County Advanced Core CAMA Land Use Plan for additional data, including maps, which
further clarify the intent of the plan.
2. CAMDEN COUNTY COMMUNITY VISION
Camden County will be an area of controlled growth designed to maintain its rural and cultural
heritage. The County will provide improved infrastructure, quality subdivisions, and expanded
recreational opportunities. The county .will selectively pursue economic and industrial
development, focusing on light industries. Village areas including South Mills, Camden, and
Shiloh will be improved and protected. Future development will have as its foundation the
preservation of Camden County's quality of life, including its natural resources. Camden County
will maintain a quality school system with no overcrowding of schools.
3. INTRODUCTION
This Fiscal Year 2002/2003 - 2003/2004 Advanced Core CAMA Land Use Plan is prepared in
accordance with the requirements of the North Carolina Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA).
2

Specifically, this document complies with Subchapter 15A NCAC 713, "CAMA Land Use Planning
Requirements," of the North Carolina Administrative Code, as amended, August 1, 2002.
The 7B guidelines provide that each of the twenty coastal counties prepare and adopt a CAMA
Land Use Plan that meets the planning requirements adopted by the Coastal Resources
Commission (CRC). If a county chooses not to prepare a plan, the guidelines specify that the CRC
will prepare and adopt a CAMA Land Use Plan for that county.
In general, 7B requires that a plan include community concerns and aspirations, analysis of
existing and emerging conditions, a plan for the future including specific land use/development
goals/policies, and tools for managing development. The management tools must specify the
actions which Camden County will take to ensure implementation of this plan. The organization
of this plan follows the 15A NCAC 7B requirements for preparation of a CAMA Land Use Plan.
At the beginning of the preparation of this document, Camden County adopted a Citizen
Participation Plan which is intended to ensure that all interested citizens have an opportunity to
participate in the development of this plan through both oral and written comments.
Following adoption of the plan by the Camden County Board of Commissioners, it was submitted
to the CRC for certification. Certification of the plan was achieved on June 17, 2005.
4. KEY ISSUES
In compliance with the 15A NCAC 7B requirements and the county's Citizen Participation Plan,
Camden County conducted a county -wide meeting on February 27, 2003, to identify issues which
are important to the future of the county. The meeting was advertised in The Daily Advance,
Elizabeth City, North Carolina on February 15, 2003. In addition, letters were directly mailed to
individuals and organizations requesting attendance at the meeting. This meeting was
instrumental to the development of this plan, providing a foundation for the development of the
document. The following list of key issues is the result of comments received at the February 27,
2003, meeting and actual ranking of the identified issues by those in attendance.
3

Number
KEY ISSUES
Concerned
•
Improve Infrastructure
32
► Reverse osmosis water treatment plant and waterline project .......... 3
► Development of infrastructure and other needed facilities
including the South Mills and Camden Village sewer systems. ......... 4
► Water and Sewer future plans for expansion. ..................... 4
► How far is natural gas going to extend . .......................... 2
► Focus sewer on core business areas. ............................ 9
► Natural Gas in core business areas . .............................. 4
► Develop more infrastructure along business corridor................. 6
•
Growth
25
► Implementation of the county's growth management plan (water & sewer) 5
► Control/restrict growth. ....... ........................... 16
► Control of conflicting land uses along the US 17, US 158 and
NC 343 highway corridors. ................................... 4
•
Better opportunities in education.
18
•
Subdivisions
15
► More restrictions on land available for subdivisions/mobile home parks.. 11
► More open space for subdivisions . ............................... 4
•
Expansion of Parks and Recreation
11
•
Impact fees.
11
•
Expand major highways.
11
•
Select Industry Development (light manufacturing, golf course).
11
•
Keep farming areas and developments apart.
10
•
More public access to water.
10
•
More focus on economic development for Camden County.
8
•
What direction are we heading in regarding the development of properties on
borderline septic systems.
7
•
Retirement facilities.
7
•
Business geared toward recreation.
6
•
Preservation and protection of the Dismal Swamp.
4
•
Storm water management.
4
•
Focus on working relationships with neighboring counties.
4
•
Assessment of water quality and the relationship of land use to water quality.
3
•
When will we start to develop commercial properties.
3
•
Affordable housing.
3
•
Prime Residential (area) Community.
3
4

KEY ISSUES
• State of Virginia's Highway 17 widening through the Dismal Swamp.
• Expansion of development from the Norfolk/Chesapeake urban area.
• Shoreline public access needs.
Number
Concerned
2
2
2
Surveys were mailed out to 408 absentee property owners. Sixty-two (62) completed
questionnaires were received. Results of the responses to the in -county meeting and absentee
property owners were very similar.
5. DOMINANT GROWTH -RELATED ISSUES
Camden County's dominant growth -related issues focus on the following:
• Improving infrastructure.
• Controlling growth, especially in northern Camden County from Chesapeake, Virginia
expansion and along the US 17 corridor.
• Control of growth along the US 158 and NC 343 corridors.
• Better opportunities in education.
6. POPULATION SUMMARY
Historical population growth and forecast of population growth are summarized in the following
tables.
Table 1
Camden County, Region
R, and North Carolina
Total Population and Percentage Change, 1970-2003
Total Population
Population % Change
County
1970
1980
1990
2000
2003
'70-'80
'80290
'90200 '00203
Overall
Estimate
Camden
5,453
5,829
5,904
6,885
7,754
6.9%
1.3%
16.6%
12.6%
42.2%
Chowan
10,764
12,558
13,506
14,526
14,410
16.7%
7.5%
7.6%
-0.8%
33.9%
Currituck
6,977
11,089
13,736
18,190
20,612
58.9%
23.9%
32.4%
13.3%
195.4%
Dare
6,996
13,377
22,746
29,967
33,216
91.2%
70.0%
31.7%
10.8%
374.8%
Gates
8,525
8,875
9,305
10,516
.10,786
4.1%
4.8%
13.0%
2.6%
26.5%
Hyde
5,570
5,873
5,411
5,826
5,758
5.4%
-7.9%
7.7%
-1.2%
3.4%
Pasquotank
26,824
28,462
31,298
34,897
36,385
6.1%
10.0%
11.5%
4.3%
35.6%
5

Table 1 (continued)
Perquimans 8,352
9,486
10,447
11,368
11,713
13.6%
10.1 %
8.8%
3.0%
40.2%
Tyrrell 3,806
3,975
3,856
4,149
4,210
4.4%
-3.0%
7.6%
1.5%
10.6%
Washington 14,039
14,801
13,997
13,723
13,479
5.4%
-5.4%
-2.0%
-1.8%
-4.0%
Region R 97,306
114,325
130,206
150,047
158,323
17.5%
13.9%
15.2 %
5.5%
62.7%
North
Carolina 5,084,442 5,880,095 6,632,448 8,049,313 8,417,255 15.6% 12.8% 21.4 4.8% 65.5%
Source: US Census Bureau.
Table 2
Camden County
Permanent and Peak Seasonal Population Forecast, 2000-2015
Permanent Population"
Peak Seasonal Population•"
Total
2000
2005
2010
2015
6,885
7,455
7,905
8,414
342
351
360
369
(76 units)
(78 units)
(80 units)
(82 units)
7,227
7,806
8,265
8,783
Source: "NC Office of State Planning; "Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. (April, 2003).
The following provides a summary of the significant demographic factors:
• From 1970 to 2000, Camden County's population increased by 26.3%, one of the four
lowest rates of growth in Region R.
• Currently, the county's population is almost evenly distributed amongst the county's three
townships.
• The county has experienced net in -migration.
•. _ From 1970 to 2000, Camden County's minority population has declined.
• The county's male/female population is almost evenly divided.
• From 1970 to 2000, the median age of the county's population increased.
• Through high school and Associate degree level, the county ranks ahead of the state in
educational attainment. However, for Bachelor's and Professional degree attainment, the
county ranks behind the state.
6

• The population trends estimated through 2003 are expected to continue through 2004.
7. HOUSING SUMMARY
• According to the 2000 US Census, Camden County contains a total of 2,973 dwelling units,
of which approximately 10.5% are vacant. Out of the 89.5% occupied units, 74.6% are
owner -occupied and 14.9% are rental properties.
• The median age of all residential structures in the county is 18 years, while approximately
44 % of all housing units were built prior to 1970.
• The percentage of homes in Camden County with 3+ bedrooms is 73.6%, compared to
60.8% for the state overall.
• Camden County has a substantially greater amount of single -unit detached housing (80.3%)
than the state average (64.4%).
• The percentage of mobile homes in the county is comparable to the state average.
• The building permit activity shown through 2003 is expected to continue in 2004, and
maintain at least 100 to 150 additional residential permits per year.
8. EMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMY SUMMARY
• Camden County ranks in the lower 50' percentile in all three of the key economic
indicators at the state level: gross retail sales, per capita income, and average annual
wage.
• The unemployment rate for the county as of November 2002 (2.8%) is significantly lower
than the state average (5.5%).
• The poverty rate is slightly lower than the state, while the percentage of persons in the
workforce is comparable to the state overall
• The number of low-income households in Camden County is lower than many rural
counties in the state, with 66% of households making over $35,000.
• The leading employment industries in the county are education, health, and social services
employing 21.6% of the population, and retail trade at 14.3%. The industries employing
the least number of individuals are wholesale trade (0.39/6) and information (0.8%).
7

• Camden County ranks 83 in total agricultural production within North Carolina. This low
ranking is slightly skewed due to the county's low rank (92) in livestock production.
• The industries in the county posting the highest earnings are state and local government
accounting for 26.1 % of total earnings, professional services at 23.7%, and retail trade at
10.2%.
• Across the board, wages in Camden County are significantly lower than state averages,
with the exception of agriculture. The county's average weekly wage in this sector is
$176.24 higher than the state average.
• Nearly forty-five percent (45%) of Camden County's working age population commutes
thirty minutes or more to work daily.
• Forty-one percent (41%) of working age citizens within Camden County commute to
Pasquotank County for their occupation.
9. LAND USE SUMMARY
The following table provides a summary of'existing land use in Camden County.
Table 3
Camden County Total Acreage
Land Use Parcels Acreage by Land Use % of Total Acreage
Agricultural/Open Space/Low Density Res' 3,679 119,164 79.15%
Commercial 64 122 0.08%
Multi -family" 2 40 0.03%
Office & Institutional 53 1,029 0.68%
Residential' 2,410 3,349 2.22%
Recreational 11 25,472 16.92%
Industrial 3 1,381 0.92%
Total 6,222 150,557 100.00%
`Low density residential includes areas where residential density is primarily one acre per dwelling unit
or greater.
"There is no assumption of density. This category includes parcels where there are more than one
dwelling unit per parcel.
'Residential includes areas where residential density is primarily less than one acre per dwelling unit.
Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. (April, 2003).
8

10. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS (WATER QUALITY, NATURAL HAZARDS, AND NATURAL
RESOURCESI
The Pasquotank River Basinwide Water Quality Plan was approved and endorsed by the North
Carolina Environmental Management Commission in July, 2002, and will be used as a guide by the
NC Division of Water Quality. The following are the goals of DWQ's basinwide program:
• Identify water quality problems and restore full use to impaired waters;
• Identify and protect high value resource waters;
• Protect unimpaired waters while allowing for reasonable economic growth;
• Develop appropriate management strategies to protect and restore water quality;
• Assure equitable distribution of waste assimilative capacity for dischargers; and
• Improve public awareness and involvement in the management of the state's surface
waters.
As existing and future land use is considered in Camden County, these goals should be kept in
mind.
Within the Pasquotank River Basin, Camden County is located primarily in subbasin 03-01-50 on
the west and partially in subbasin 03-01-54 to the east. It should be noted that currently there
are no outstanding resource waters or high quality waters located in Camden County.
The following provides a summary of existing conditions in both subbasins and the DWQ
recommendations from the 2002 Basinwide Plan:
a. Subbasin 03-01-50
This subbasin consists of the Pasquotank River and its tributaries in Camden, Pasquotank,
and Gates counties. The headwaters of the Pasquotank River include freshwater in the Great
Dismal Swamp. Southward, a significant portion of the waters in this subbasin is brackish
estuarine, including Albemarle Sound and the Pasquotank River below Elizabeth City.
This subbasin includes the Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge and portions of the Great
Marsh. In addition, the subbasin has Significant Natural Heritage Areas near the mouth of the
Pasquotank River.
01

There are seven permitted dischargers in the
subbasin. The Elizabeth City WWTP is the only
major discharge, which discharges into the
Pasquotank River. Also, there are 15 general
permits. Two facilities, the Elizabeth City
Wastewater Treatment Plant and the US Coast
Guard, are required under permit to perform whole
effluent toxicity testing in the subbasin. The
Elizabeth City WWTP experienced problems during
1997, and the causes oftheir toxicity testing failures
are not clear. Since September 1997, the facility has
not failed a test. There is one individual storm
water permit issued in the subbasin for Universal
Forest Products Eastern Division, Inc.
2002 Recommendations: DWQ recommends
that Elizabeth City decide whether they wish to use
the Pasquotank River as a raw water supply source.
Subbasin 03-01-50 Description
Land and Water
Total area:
454 mil
Land area:
390 miZ
Water area:
64 miZ
Population Statistics
1990 Est. pop.: 31,369 people
Pop. density: 80 persons/miZ
Land Cover
Forest/Wetland:
46%
Surface Water: 18%
Urban:
< 1%
Cultivated Crop:
34%
Pasture/Managed
Herbaceous:
1%
If Elizabeth City decides not to use the Pasquotank
River as a raw drinking water supply source, then
the river could be reclassified for non -water supply use. In order for DWQ to consider the
reclassification, a request for the reclassification must be submitted to DWQ. If this change were
made, the water quality controls in this area would be less stringent, resulting in a more favorable
situation for overall development. As of April 2002, DWQ has not received any requests from
Elizabeth City. Until then, Elizabeth City, Pasquotank County, and Camden County are required
to implementwater supplywatershed protection ordinances that meet or exceed the state's rules.
The 2002 Basinwide Plan indicates that the Division of Water Quality's Regional Office has
identified numerous algal blooms near the canals of Areneuse Creek. The contributing sources
include increased land development. The Division of Water -Quality will continue to monitor the
creek and evaluate the potential impacts of these blooms.
b. Subbasin 03-01-54
This subbasin consists of Currituck Sound and the North River and its tributaries in
Currituck and Camden counties.
DWQ did not conduct benthic macroinvertebrate, fish community, fish tissue or ambient
sampling in this subbasin. Therefore, there is currently little information on water quality status
in subbasin 03-01-54. DWQ relies on information from the Division of Environmental Health,
local water treatment plant operators, and county health departments for this subbasin.
10

This subbasin contains multiple public lands
and Significant Natural Heritage Areas including
several National Wildlife Refuges, the Currituck Banks
National Estuarine Research Reserve, Northwest River
Marsh Game Land, North River Game Land, and
portions of the Great Marsh.
A portion of this subbasin is located on the
Outer Banks, an area of high growth potential.
Growth management within the next five years will
be imperative in order to maintain good water quality
in the subbasin.
There are two permitted NPDES dischargers in
the subbasin: Currituck County Water Treatment
Plant and Corolla North Utilities. Both facilities hold
minor permits. No facilities are required under
permit to perform whole effluent toxicity testing in
the subbasin. There are no NPDES individual storm
water permits issued in the subbasin; however, there
are 11 general storm water permits issued.
Subbasin 03-01-54 Description
Land and Water
Total area:
503 miZ
Land area:
304 miZ
Water area:
199 mil
Population Statistics
1990 Est. pop.: 14,653 people
Pop. density: 48 persons/miZ
Land Cover
Forest/Wetland:
39%
Surface Water: 39%
Urban: <1%
Cultivated Crop:
20%
Pasture/Managed
Herbaceous: <1%
2002 Recommendations: DWQ will continue to monitor the frequency and duration of algal
blooms in Currituck Sound. Where necessary, DWQwill use the assistance of the other scientific
staff such as Rapid Response Teams to assist in determining the cause of the algal blooms. Upon
notification of an algal bloom in the vicinity, DWQ will continue to immediately provide the
information to the public.
DWQ should collaborate with the National Oceanic and Atomospheric Administration's
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation Research efforts to monitor the status of the submerged aquatic
vegetation in the area. Where feasible, DWQ should allocate funding and technical assistance.
toward the initiative.
DWQ will continue to provide information to the US Army Corps in their efforts to
undertake a Scoping Study of Currituck Sound. Pending budget flexibility, DWQ will allocate
funding towards future collaboration efforts with the US Army Corps.
11

C. Registered Animal Operations/Population Densities within Pasquotank River Basin
Table 4 provides a summary of registered animal operations for subbasins 03-01-50 and
03-01-54.
Table 4
Camden County
Registered Animal Operations
Cattle Poultry Swine
Total Steady Total Steady Total Steady
No. of No. of State Live No. of No. of State Live No. of No. of State Live
Subbasin Facilities Animals Weight' Facilities Animals Weight* Facilities Animals Weight*
03-01-50 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 5,455 634,940
03-01-54 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 3 23,978 3,463,611
Totals 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 29,433 4,098,551
*Steady State Live Weight (SSLW) is the result, in pounds, after a conversion factor has been applied to the number
(head count) of swine, cattle, or poultry on a farm. The conversion factors, which come from the Natural Resource
Conservation Service (NRCS) guidelines, vary depending on the type of animals on the farm and the type of operation
(for example, there are five types of hog farms). Since the amount of waste produced varies by the size of the animal,
SSLW is the best way to compare the sizes of the farms.
Source: Pasquotank Basinwide Water Quality Management Plana
Table 5 provides population densities for the Pasquotank River Basin. In using these data,
it should be noted that some of the population figures are estimates because the census block
group boundaries do not generally coincide with subbasin boundaries. The census data are
collected within boundaries such as counties and municipalities. By contrast, the subbasin lines
are drawn along natural drainage divides separating watersheds. Therefore, where a census block
group straddles a subbasin line, an estimate is made on the percentage of the population that is
located in the subbasin. This is done by simply determining the percentage of the census block
group area located in the subbasin and then taking that same percentage ofthe total census block
group population and assigning it the subbasin. Use of this method necessitates assuming that
population density is evenly distributed throughout the census block group, which is not always
the case. However, the level of error associated with this method is not expected to be
significant for the purposes of this document. It is also important to note that the census block
groups change every ten years, so comparisons between years must be considered approximate.
12

Table 5
Pasquotank River Basin
Population, Densities, and Land Area Summaries for Camden County Subbasins
POPULATION'
POPULATION DENSITY2
LAND AND WATER AREAS3
(Number of Persons)
(Persons/Square Mile)
Total Land and
Water
Land
SUBBASIN
Water Area
Area
Area
1970 1980 1990
1970 1980 1990
(Acres) (Sq. Mi.)
(Sq. Mi.) (Sq.
Mi.)
03-01-50
28,271 29,867 31,369
72 77 80
291,066 455
64
390
03-01-54
8,320 12,525 14,653
27 41 48
322,062 503
199
304
TOTALS
36,591 42,392 46,022
99 118 128
613,128 958
263
694
' Population estimated based on US Census data and percentage of census block that falls within the subbasin.
2Population density based on land area only. Large wetlands (swamps) not included in area used to calculate density.
3 Information generated by the NC Center for Geographic Information Analysis.
Source: Pasquotank Water Quality Management Plan.
d. Growth Trends
Basinwide, the percentage increase in population from 1980 to 1990 was 16.4 percent,
exceeding the statewide increase of 12.7 percent over the same ten-year period. The projected
population figures indicate that the majority of the basin is expected to continue to grow at
significant rates. The highest levels of growth are expected on the Outer Banks.
11. ANALYSIS OF LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT
1. Introduction
The Division of Coastal Management Land Use Plan Guidelines (15A NCAC 713.0207) require that
existing land uses and water uses be mapped. The land and water use maps, in conjunction with
the existing land suitability map and the future land suitability map, should be utilized as working
documents and serve as a basis for the development of the future land use map(s). Specifically,
the plan should address the following:
• Significant land use compatibility problems;
• Significant water use compatibility problems including those identified in any water
supply plan appendix and those identified in the applicable Division of Environmental
Management basinwide plan;
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• Significant problems that have resulted from unplanned development and that have
implications for future land use, waster use, or water quality;
An identification of areas experiencing or likely to experience changes in predominant
land uses, including agricultural and forestry land being converted to other uses and
previously undeveloped shoreline areas where development is now occurring;
• Significant water quality conditions and the connection between land use and water
quality.
2. Land Use in Relation to Water Quality
This section will serve to take a closer look at how land use in Camden County relates to water
quality. This section has been compiled with information provided by the North Carolina Division
of Water Quality (DWQ). Under the Basinwide Management Program, the DWQ completes
Basinwide Water Quality Plans. Camden County is located in subbasins 03-01-50 and 03-01-54
which are delineated on Map 1.
Basinwide water quality planning is a non -regulatory, watershed -based approach to restoring and
protecting the quality of North Carolina's surface waters. Preparation of a basinwide water quality
plan is a five-year process, which is broken down into three phases. While these plans are
prepared by the DWQ, their implementation and the protection of water quality entails the
coordinated efforts of many agencies, local governments, and stakeholder groups in the state.
The first cycle of plans was completed in 1998, but each plan is updated at five-year intervals.
It should be noted that the results of the monitoring efforts are not intended to provide precise
conclusions about pollutant budgets for specific watersheds. Since the assessment methodology
is geared toward general conclusions, it is important not to manipulate the data to support policy
decisions beyond the accuracy of the data.
Two primary methods of water quality testing were performed in Camden County. The details
of this methodology are described below so that the information on the results of this testing can
be better understood. The methods utilized were Benthic Macroinvertebrate Monitoring and the
Ambient Monitoring System. DWQ also observes water bodies for the existence of algal blooms,
which are an indication of poor water quality.
Benthic macroinvertebrates are organisms, primarily aquatic insect larvae, which live in and on
the bottoms of rivers and streams. The use of macroinvertebrate data has proven to be a reliable
water quality monitoring tool because most macroinvertebrates are immobile and sensitive to
subtle changes in water quality. Benthic communities also respond to, and show the effects of,
a wide array of potential pollutant mixtures.
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The preparation of this map was financed In part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972. as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Subbasin
03-01-50
CA
MAP 1
Camden County
Subbasin Location
1 inch equals 5 miles
W
E
S
Miles
0 2 4 8 12 16

The Ambient Monitoring System (AMS) is a network of stream, lake, and estuarine (saltwater)
water quality monitoring stations (about 420 statewide) strategically located for the collection
of physical and chemical water quality data (or parameters). Water quality parameters are
arranged by freshwater or saltwater water body classification and corresponding water quality
standards. Under this arrangement, Class C waters (refer to page 54 for a description of water
quality classifications) are assigned minimum monthly parameters with additional parameters
assigned to waters with classifications such as trout waters and water supplies.
Prolific growths of phytoplankton, often due to high concentrations of nutrients, sometimes
result in "blooms" in which one or more species of alga may discolor the water or form visible
mats on the water's surface. Blooms may be unsightly and deleterious to water quality causing
fish kills, anoxia, and taste and odor problems.
a. Subbasin 03-01-50
This subbasin consists primarily of the Pasquotank River Basin and its tributaries in
Camden, Pasquotank, and Gates counties. Land use is mostly cropland or forest, with the greatest
amount of agricultural land use in the southern portion of the subbasin. This land is utilized for
row crops, such as cabbage* corn, and soybeans. Most of the development is in the Elizabeth City
area; other small urban areas include the villages of Camden and South Mills.
Many tributaries have little or no flow in the summer months, and there are few wadeable
streams. As noted earlier in this plan, the Elizabeth City Waste Water Treatment Plant is the only
major permitted discharger in the subbasin. Streams in this subbasin run through a highly
agricultural landscape, but they include both channelized streams and streams with a more
natural channel. DWQ has conducted ambient and benthic macroinvertebrate sampling in this
subbasin.
Benthic macroinvertebrate data have been collected from five sites in this subbasin since
1995. Two of these sites, Areneuse Creek and Sawyers Creek, are located within Camden County,
and this data was collected in February, 2000. The benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring sites
in this subbasin are currently not rated because criteria for assigning bioclassifications to swamp
streams are still in draft form.
Mild shifts toward negative water quality were observed at these sites, which are
associated to either agricultural or urban land use. In addition to the indicators present at the
monitoring sites, numerous algal blooms have been identified near the canal of Areneuse Creek.
These may also be attributed to increased urban development or non -point source runoff from
agricultural activity. It appears the adverse affect on water quality is associated with both
increased development and agricultural activity. There has been a significant increase in
residential development near Areneuse Creek along South Mills Dam Road. This increase in urban
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storm water runoff is most likely responsible for the existence of algal blooms in the area. The
monitoring station on Sawyers Creek is located upstream from the development taking place
within the Village of Camden, and therefore the minor shift in water quality along this stretch may
be attributed to agricultural non -point source pollution.
In order to address this problem and alleviate any further degradation of the water quality
within the county, several steps may be taken. The county should continue to enforce agricultural
Best Management Practices (BMPs). It may be useful to disseminate information on BMPs, or to
hold public meetings to discuss how poor management of these practices may affect the long
term quality of surface water within the county. Additionally, as development pressure increases
within the county, close attention should be paid to storm water control issues. The county
should begin working towards developing a successful Storm water Management Program. Under
Phase III of the US Environmental Protection Agency's Storm water Control Regulations, the
county will be required to establish this program. The county should be pro -active in working
towards establishing this program, to ensure protection of surface water quality during the
planning period.
There is only one ambient monitoring station located in the county's jurisdiction, and it
is located in this subbasin. The largest.impact on this body of water is the urban storm water
runoff and WWTP discharge from Elizabeth City. There are indications that urban storm water
runoff may be adversely affecting water quality in the Pasquotank River. This problem will be
addressed in the context of the Elizabeth City storm water control program which is required
under Phase II of the EPA's Storm water Control Program. Permits are required to be in place
under Phase I1 by May of 2004. Recent testing has indicated that the WWTP in Elizabeth City is
not currently having an adverse impact on the water quality in the Pasquotank River.
b. Subbasin 03-01-54
This subbasin consists of Currituck Sound, plus the North River and its tributaries in
Currituck and Camden counties. Land use in this subbasin is primarily cropland and forest.
However, development is increasing rapidly along US 158 and throughout the Outer Banks. There
has been no recent biological monitoring in this subbasin.
The surface waters discussed in this section are fully supporting designated uses or are
not rated based on recent DWQ monitoring; however, the data revealed some impacts to water
quality. Although no action is required for these streams, voluntary implementation of BMPs is
encouraged and continued monitoring is recommended. DWQwill notify local agencies ofwater
quality concerns regarding these waters and work with them to conduct further monitoring and
to locate sources of water quality protection funding.
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This subbasin has the potential to undergo a great population increase due to its
proximity to Virginia and growing municipalities in the North Carolina portion of the basin.
Growth management within the next five years will be imperative in order to maintain good water
quality in this subbasin. Growth management can be defined as the application of strategies and
practices that help achieve sustainable development in harmony with the conservation of
environmental qualities and features of an area. On a local level, growth management often
involves planning and development review requirements that are designed to maintain or improve
water quality.
12. LAND USE/DEVELOPMENT GOALS AND IMPLEMENTING ACTIONS
This section of the plan is intended to guide the development and use of land in Camden County.
The future land use. maps and policies are intended to support Camden County's and CAMA's
goals. Specifically, this section includes Camden County's goals land use development policies,
and the future land use maps for the county and the seven individual study areas. The future land
use maps and the specified development goals are based on the Camden County community
concerns and the future needs/demands.
A. POLICIES/IMPLEMENTING ACTIONS
1. Introduction
It is intended that the policies included in this plan are consistent with the goals of CAMA. This
plan will address the CRC management topics for land use plans and comply with all state and
federal rules and regulations. The following will serve as a guideline to assist in assuring that this
land use plan will guide the development and use of land in a manner that is consistent with the
management goal(s), planning objective(s), and land use plan requirements of this plan. These
policies/implementing actions will apply in the county as a whole and the individual study areas.
All policies/implementing actions shall be used for consistency review by appropriate state and
federal agencies.
Within the village/corridor subareas, the policies and implementing actions included within this
plan apply. However, policy P.31 and implementing action 1.27 specifically address the
implementation of "smart growth" actions within the subareas. In addition, the infrastructure
carrying capacity policies and implementing actions focus on the subareas.
Resource conservation and impact analysis issues are addressed throughout the policies and
implementing actions included in this plan. However, the following conservation related policies
and implementing actions are emphasized:
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• Public Access
Conservation
• Stormwater Control
• Natural Hazard Areas
• Water Quality
• Cultural, Historical, and Scenic Areas
Specifically, in implementing this plan, the Camden County Planning Board and Board of
Commissioners will continually do the following:
Consult the Land Use Plan during the deliberation of all re -zoning requests.
Consider the following in deliberation of all zoning petitions:
• Consider the policies and implementing actions of this plan and all applicable
CAMA regulations in their decisions regarding land use and development
(including 15A NCAC 7H).
• All uses that are allowed in a zoning district must be considered. A decision to
re -zone or not to re -zone a parcel or parcels of property cannot be based on
consideration of only one use or a partial list of the uses allowed within a zoning
district.
•- Zoning decisions will not be based on aesthetic considerations.
• Requests for zoning changes will not be approved if the requested change will
result in spot zoning. Spot zoning is a form of discriminatory zoning whose sole
purpose is to serve the private interests of one or more landowners instead of
furthering the welfare of the entire community as part of an overall zoning plan.
Spot zoning is based on the arbitrary and inappropriate nature of a re -zoning
change rather than, as is commonly believed, on the size of the area being re-
zoned.
• Zoning which will result in strip development should be discouraged. Strip
development is a melange of development, usually commercial, extending along
both sides of a major street. Strip development is often a mixture of auto -oriented
enterprises (e.g., gas stations, motels, and food stands), and truck -dependent
wholesale and light industrial enterprises along with the once -rural homes and
farms that await conversion to commercial use. Strip development may severely
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reduce traffic -carrying capacity of abutting streets by allowing for excessive and
conflicting curb cuts.
• The concept of uniformity should be supported in all zoning deliberations.
Uniformity is a basic premise of zoning which holds that all land in similar
circumstances should be zoned alike; any different circumstances should be
carefully balanced with a demonstrated need for such different treatment.
• Zoning regulations should be made in accordance with the Camden County Land
Use Plan and designed to lessen congestion in the streets; to secure safety from
fire, panic, and other dangers; to promote health and the general welfare; to
provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land; to avoid
undue concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of
transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public requirements.
The regulations shall be made with reasonable consideration, among other things,
as to the character ofthe district and its peculiar suitability for particular uses, and
with a view to conserving the value of buildings and encouraging the most
appropriate use of land throughout Camden County's planning jurisdiction.
• Specifically, the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners should ask the
following questions:
• Does Camden County need more land in the zone class requested?
• Is there other property in the county that might be more appropriate for
this use?
• Is the request in accordance with the Camden County land use plan?
• Will the request have a serious impact on traffic circulation, parking space,
sewer and water services, and other utilities?
• Will the request have an impact on other county services, including police
protection, fire protection, or the school system?
• Is there a good possibility that the request, as proposed, will result in
lessening the enjoyment or use of adjacent properties?
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• Will the request, as proposed, cause serious noise, odors, light, activity, or
unusual disturbances?
• Does the request raise serious legal questions such as spot zoning,
hardship, violation of precedents, or need for this type of use?
• Does the request adversely impact any CAMA AEC's or other
environmentally sensitive areas including water quality?
It is intended that this plan will serve as the basic tool to guide development/growth in Camden
County subject to the following:
• The Camden County Land Development Ordinances should be revised from time to time
to be consistent, as reasonably possible, with the recommendations of this plan and the
evolving nature of the county's growth and development policy.
Land development regulations should be designed: to lessen congestion in the streets; to
secure safety from fire, panic, and other dangers; to promote health and the general
welfare; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of land; to avoid
undue concentration of population; and to facilitate the adequate provision of
transportation, water, sewerage, schools, parks, and other public requirements.
• Camden County will coordinate all development proposals with appropriate State and/or
Federal agencies.
B. POLICIES REGARDING LAND USE AND DEVELOPMENT IN AECS
Camden County accepts state and federal law regarding land uses and development in AEC's. By
reference, all applicable state and federal regulations are incorporated into this document.
However, Camden County does not consider the following issues to be relevant at this time:
• Outstanding Resource Waters
• Maritime Forests
• Shellfishing Waters
• Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
• Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impact on any Resource
• Dredging
• Beach Nourishment
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All policies and implementing actions are to be utilized by the State of North Carolina for
consistency review. Note the following:
• No policy is subordinate to another.
• All management topics have equal status.
• The future land use map may show some areas in a developed category which may also
include sensitive habitats or natural areas. The intent is that development should be
designed/permitted to protect these areas through utilization of concepts such as cluster
development. Development/project approval will be based on project design which avoids
substantial loss of important habitat areas.
• The village and highway corridor plans are intended to be consistentwith the county -wide
future land use map.
C. LAND USE PLAN MANAGEMENT TOPICS
1. Introduction
The purposes of the Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) management topics are to ensure that
CAMA Land Use Plans support the goals of CAMA, to define the CRC's expectations for the land
use planning process, and to give the CRC a substantive basis for review and certification of CAMA
Land Use Plans. Each of the following management topics (Public Access, Land Use Compatibility,
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity, Transportation, Natural Hazard Areas, Water Quality, and Local
Areas of Concern) include three components: a management goal, a statement of the CRC's
planning objective, and requirements for the CAMA Land Use Plan. These policies apply to the
entire county including the seven future land use study areas. The local concerns and issues were
utilized to develop the goals and objectives which are included in this plan. Most of the policies
and implementing actions are continuing activities. In most situations, specific timelines are not
applicable. Refer to page 53 for a list ofthose policies/implementing actions which have a specific
schedule. The policies and implementing actions frequently utilize the following words: should,
continue, encourage, enhance, identify, implement, maintain, prevent, promote, protect, provide,
strengthen, support, work. Please note: Policies and Implementing Actions are number
consecutively throughout this document with the letter "P" denoting a policy and the letter "1"
denoting an implementing action.
2. Impact of CAMA Land Use Plan Policies on Management Topics
The development of this land use plan has relied heavily on the CAMA-prescribed existing
suitability analysis and the future land suitability analysis. It is intended that this document is
supportive of the CAMA regulations for protection of AEC's (15A NCAC 7H).
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This plan is intended to support the Camden Countyvision statement which was developed based
on the key issues identified on pages 4 and 5 of this document and the CAMA AEC regulations.
No negative impacts are anticipated by the implementation of the goals, objectives, and policies
which are included in this plan. Also refer to Tools for Managing Development.
Note: It is intended. that all policies are consistent with (do not exceed) applicable State and
Federal requirements when State and Federal requirements apply.
3. Public Access
a. Management Goal: Camden County will maximize public access to the beaches and the
public trust waters of the coastal region.
b. Planning Objective: Camden Countywill develop comprehensive policies that provide beach
and public trust water access opportunities for the public along the shoreline within the
planning jurisdiction.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements: The following are Camden County's policies/implementing
actions for waterfront access. All policies are continuing activities.
Policies:
PA The county supports the Great Dismal Swamp Visitor/Welcome Center and tourism
and recreational related developments that protect and preserve the natural
environment while promoting the county as a tourist destination. It supports the
private and public development of waterfront access through private funds and
grant monies. It also supports the work of the Northeastern North Carolina
Economic Development Commission. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.2 Camden County supports providing shoreline access for persons with disabilities.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.3 Camden County supports the frequency of shoreline access as defined by 15A
NCAC 7M, Section .0300, Shorefront Access Policies. However, emphasis will be
placed on providing access to the Great Dismal Swamp and the Shiloh Township
area. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
PA Camden County supports state/federal funding of piers for crabbing and fishing.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
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P.5 Camden County supports the development of estuarine access areas to ensure
adequate shoreline access within all areas of the county. Areas that have
traditionally been used by the public will be given special attention. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions:
1.1 Camden County will revise its subdivision ordinance to include the provisions of
NCGS 153A-331 which allow for requiring the developer of a subdivision to be
charged recreation fees as follows: "The subdivision ordinance may provide that
a developer may provide funds to the county whereby the county may acquire
recreational land or areas to serve the development or subdivision, including the
purchase of land which may be used to serve more than one subdivision or
development within the immediate area.
The funds may be utilized to provide increased shoreline access. Schedule: Fiscal
Year 2005 2006.
1.2 Camden County will prepare a shoreline access plan and request Division of
Coastal Management funding for the preparation of the plan. Schedule Fiscal Year
2005 2006.
1.3 Camden County will pursue funding under the North Carolina CAMA Shoreline
Access funding program (15A NCAC 7M, Section .0300, Shorefront Access Policies).
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
I.4 Camden County will pursue private sources of funding for the development of
shoreline access facilities, including donation of land. Schedule: ContinuingActivity.
I.5 In areas adjacent to the Great Dismal Swamp, Camden County will pursue funding
from the Department of Archives and Natural History and the federal government
for the provision of shoreline access sites. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.6 The county will cooperate with state and federal agencies to secure estuarine
access areas to ensure adequate shoreline access within all areas of the county.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
NOTE: There are no shoreline areas in Camden County targeted for shoreline/beach
nourishment.
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4. Land Use Compatibility
a. Management Goal: Camden County will ensure that development and use of resources or
preservation of land minimize direct and secondary environmental impacts, avoid risks to
public health, safety, and welfare, and are consistent with the capability of the land based
on considerations of interactions of natural and manmade features.
b. Planning Objectives:
i. Camden County will adopt and apply local development policies that balance
protection of natural resources and fragile. areas with economic development.
ii. Camden County's policies will provide clear direction to assist local decision
making and consistency findings for zoning, divisions of land, and public and
private projects.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements The following are Camden County's policies/implementing
actions for land use compatibility:
Policies - Residential:
P.6 Camden County supports revisions to the North Carolina State Statutes which
would allow the local imposition of impact fees or special legislation to allow
them in Camden County. Impact fees would be levied against land developers to
establish a revenue source to support the additional demand for services
generated by the people occupying the proposed developments such as roads,
schools, water and sewer infrastructure, and recreational facilities. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.7 The county supports repair and reconstruction of privately -owned dwelling units
through private funds and/or grants. It supports the enforcement of existing
regulations of the District Health Department regarding sanitary conditions.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.8 Camden County supports discouraging the re -zoning of existing residentially -
developed or zoned areas to a non-residential classification as reasonably possible.
Such re -zoning and amendments in classifications to the future land use map
should be carefully balanced with a demonstrated need for such proposed
development that will be the best overall land development policy for Camden
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County's future land use and protecting established residentially -developed areas.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.9 Camden County supports greater residential densities in areas that are accessible
to water and/or sewer service(s). Agricultural and low density residential land uses
should be located in areas that do not have county water or sewer service.
Office/InstitutionaVMulti-family land uses should be developed along
transportation thoroughfares to provide transition between commercial nodes and
to preserve vehicle carrying capacity. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
PA 0 Camden County supports quality development reflecting the spectrum of housing
needs, from low -end (affordable) residences to high -end (luxury) residences.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
PA I Camden County supports regulating growth to coincide with the provision of
public facilities and services. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.12 The county should discourage development in areas designated for low -density
residential/agricultural use with the exception oflow-density residential/agriculture
land uses as much as reasonably possible. A large majority of the future land use
map is designated as low -medium density residential/agricultural land use.
Because of its current land use patterns, rezoning and amendments to the future
land use map should be carefully balanced with a demonstrated need for such
proposed development that will be the overall best management policy for
Camden County's future land development. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.13 Camden County supports wooded buffers along thoroughfares. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
P.14 Camden County supports utilizing OfficeAnstitutionaumulti-family development as
a buffer between light industrial and commercial development and adjacent
residential land uses. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.15 The county supports providing adequate conservation/open space buffers between
areas designated for residential development as indicated on the future land use
map and any adjacent non-residential land use, including agricultural areas.
Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005-2006.
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P.16 The county supports the City of Chesapeake's efforts to develop the 4,000 acre
tract of land located along US Route 17, adjacent to the northern Camden County
border. The proposed mixed -use developmentwill assist in the county's economic
development efforts and provide a source of jobs for county residents. The county
may provide utilities to the project site; however, provision of these utilities will
be limited due to the existing utility demands of the county. Schedule. Continuing
Activity.
Implementing Actions - Residential:
1.7 All re -zoning and subdivision approvals will consider the existing and future land
use suitability maps and analyses which are included in this plan. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
1.8 Camden County will permit residential development to occur in response to
, market needs provided that the following criteria are met:
(1) Due respect is offered to all aspects of the environment.
(2) if deficient community facilities and services are identified, the county
should attempt to improve such to the point of adequately meeting
demands.
(3) Additional residential development should concurrently involve planning
for improvements to community facilities and services if excess capacity
does not exist within those facilities and services.
(4) Residential development is consistent with other Camden County policies
and the land use map as contained in this plan update.
This implementing action will be enforced through the Camden County zoning and
subdivision ordinances. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.9 Camden County will review its zoning and subdivision ordinances and consider
establishing floor area ratio requirements to ensure that development is consistent
with the density requirements of this plan. Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005 2006.
The following defines floor area ratio: Floor area ratio is determined by dividing
the gross floor area of all buildings on a lot by the area of that lot.
Comment. The floor area ratio (FAR) was developed as a more refined and
adaptable measure of intensity than building coverage. It expresses in one
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measure, instead ofseveral, the mathematical relation between volume of building
and unit of land. However, FAR cannot replace more traditional bulk controls
entirely. Often, it is not a sufficient height control nor does it regulate the
placement of the building on the site.
E- 0.5 F)
(-- 2.0 Fi
FLOOZ Ali? EA k7ATK)
I.10 The county will consider revisions to the zoning ordinance for non-residential sites
to ensure adequate buffering and landscaping to separate residential and
incompatible non-residential uses, and adequate regulation of off -site lighting,
hours of operation, and vehicular driveway locations. Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005-
2006.
I.11 The Camden County zoning ordinance will be revised to include an
office/institutional zoning district. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
1.12 The countywill require through zoning and subdivision regulation an interior road
system that provides vehicular access to lots abutting major thoroughfares.
Consider reviewing existing design standards to ensure effective limitation of
driveway entrances. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.13 Camden County, through revision of its zoning ordinance, will limit "strip"
residential development along highways and certain roads carrying heavy traffic
and encourage service roads or an internal street pattern to eliminate direct
driveway connections to highways and roads. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
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1.14 The county will regulate through its zoning and subdivision ordinance the
development of conflicting land uses along the US 17, US 158, and NC 343 highway
corridors. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.15 The county will consider the merits of establishing a minimum housing code to
ensure that all occupied structures are fit for human habitation. Schedule. Fiscal
Year 2006 2007.
I.16 The county will pursue Community. Development, North Carolina Housing Finance
Agency, and United States Department of Agriculture funds from state and federal
sources for rehabilitation or redevelopment of substandard housing.. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
Policies CommerciallIndustrial:
PA 7 Camden County supports commercial development at the intersections of major
roads (i.e., in a nodal fashion) consistent with the county's future land use map.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.18 The county supports properly permitted mining activities within its borders.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
PA 9 Camden County deems industrial development within fragile areas and areas with
low land suitability acceptable only if the following conditions are met:
(1) CAMA minor or major permits can be obtained.
(2) Applicable zoning ordinance provisions are met in zoned areas.
(3) Within coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust waters, no
industrial use will be permitted unless such use is water related.
This policy applies to both new industrial development and to expansion of
existing industrial facilities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.20 Camden County opposes the establishment of private solid waste/landfill sites in
the county which are not licensed by the county. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.21 Camden County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally compatible
Tight industrial and commercial establishments within its borders in areas that are
already similarly developed or in public or private industrial parks to minimize the
29

sacrifice of prime agricultural lands for such development. The county also
supports the Northeastern North Carolina Economic Development Commission in
its efforts to promote economic development in the county. The county does not
encourage the conversion of prime farmland to residential use. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.22 Camden County supports industrial development which will be located adjacent
to and/or with direct access to major thoroughfares. Schedule: ContinuingActivity.
P.23 Camden County supports the development of industrial sites that are accessible
to county water and sewer services. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.24 Industries which are noxious by reason of the emission of smoke,. dust, glare,
noise, odor, and vibrations, and those which deal primarily in hazardous products
such as explosives, should not be located in Camden County. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
P.25 Industry should be located in conformance with the county's land use plan. This
includes placing emphasis on light industrial development. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
Implementing Actions - Commercial/Industrial:
I.17 The county will enforce its zoning regulations and rely on state permitting
agencies to regulate mining activities. The county will take a more active stance
regarding the State permitting authorities and their oversight of mining activities
by communicating grievances to the appropriate State agencies and officials.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
I.18 Camden County will rely on its zoning ordinance in zoned areas and the CAMA
permitting program with regard to new industrial development and expansion of
existing industrial facilities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.19 Camden County will review its zoning and subdivision ordinances to ensure
compliance with policies PA 7 and P.20 through P.25. Schedule Fiscal Year 2005-
2006.
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Policies - Conservation:
P.26 Except as otherwise permitted in this plan, residential, commercial, and industrial
development should not be supported in natural heritage areas or coastal
wetlands. Residential, commercial, and industrial development which meets 15A
NCAC 7H use standards will be allowed in estuarine shoreline, estuarine water, and
public trust areas. In all other areas, development will be allowed that is
consistent with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. ' Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
P.27 Camden County will support larger lots in conservation classified areas through
enforcement of the county subdivision and zoning ordinances in zoned areas.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.28 Camden County supports the maintenance of its rural atmosphere. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions - Conservation:
1.20 Protect Camden County's fragile areas from inappropriate, unplanned, or poorly
planned development through the following:
-- By implementing the Camden County Zoning Ordinance, limit land uses in
the vicinity of historic sites and natural heritage areas to compatible land
uses. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Camden County will coordinate all housing code enforcement/
redevelopment projects/public works projects with the NC Division of
Archives and History to ensure the preservation and identification of
significant historic structures and archaeological sites. Significant historic
sites are identified in the Land Use Plan. Note: Also see implementing
action 1.62 and I.63. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.21 Camden County will review its zoning and subdivision ordinances to ensure
compliance with policies P.27 and P.28. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
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Policies - Stormwater Control:
P.29 Camden County supports reducing soil erosion, runoff, and sedimentation to
minimize the adverse effects on surface and subsurface water quality. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.30 The county supports the enforcement of all controls and regulations, specifically
design standards, tie -down requirements, construction and installation standards,
elevation requirements, flood -proofing, CAMA regulations, and FEMA regulations,
deemed necessary by the Board of Commissioners to mitigate the risks of lives and
property caused by severe storms and hurricanes. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions - Stormwater Control:
1.22 Camden County will consider adopting and enforcing a soil erosion and sediment
control ordinance. Schedule. Fiscal Year20052006.
1.23 Camden County will support control of agricultural runoffthrough implementation
of Natural Resources Conservation Service "Agricultural Best Management
Practices" program. Schedule. Continuing Activity..
1.24 Camden County will support control of forestry runoff through implementation of
"Forestry Best Management Practices" as provided by the North Carolina Division
of Forest Resources. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.25 Camden County will consider adopting a landscaping ordinance to require that a
buffer of trees/vegetation be left between rights -of -way and any clear cut areas be
consistent with applicable state and federal regulations. Schedule. Fiscal Year2005-
2006.
1.26 Camden County will consider adopting and enforcing a stormwater control
ordinance which should include regulations for water detention and/or retention
facilities in new developments and provide regulations to control the amount of
impervious surface in a development. Schedule. Fiscal Year20052006.
NOTE: Please refer to the Storm Hazard Mitigation section in the Land Use Plan.
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Policies - CommuniWHighway Corridor Study Areas:
P.31 Within the Community/Highway Corridor Study Areas, Camden County supports
the concept of"smart growth" as described in Section VI (D) of the Land Use Plan.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions - Community fflighway Corridor Study Areas:
1.27 Camden County will review and update its zoning ordinance to incorporate the
"smart growth" concept. Schedule: Fiscal Year20062007.
S. Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
a. Management Goal: Camden County will ensure that public infrastructure systems are
appropriately sized, located, and managed so the quality and productivity of AECs and
other fragile areas are protected or restored. It is acknowledged that to achieve the
infrastructure carrying capacity goals, policies, and implementing actions, some utility
lines may have to extend through some environmentally sensitive areas.
b. Planning Objective: Camden County will establish level of service policies and criteria for
infrastructure consistent with the projections of future land needs.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements The following are Camden County's policies for infrastructure
carrying capacity. All policies are continuing activities.
Policies:
P.32 Camden County supports providing adequate community services and facilities
which meet the needs of Camden County's citizens, businesses, and industries.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.33 Camden County supports providing sufficient water and sewer service to promote
economic development and to alleviate public health problems created by the
absence of public water and sewer services in Camden County. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.34 The county supports directing more intensive land uses to areas that have existing
or planned infrastructure. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
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P.35 The county supports the extension of water services from existing systems and
encourages the use of central systems for new developments whether residential,
commercial, or industrial in nature. It also supports the continued public
provision of solid waste disposal, law enforcement, and educational services to all
citizens of the county. Note: Also see policy P.79. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.36 The county will rely on its existing land use and development ordinances to
regulate development and may amend or modify regulations to encourage or
require the provision of central water service to lots or parcels proposed in new
developments. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.37 The county supports the installation and use of properly permitted septic tank
systems and the enforcement of District Health Department regulations and local
development regulations regarding lot sizes and waste disposal system placement.
The countywill also encourage the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources to investigate the feasibility of using alternative waste
processing systems such as flushless toilets, incineration, and artificial wetlands
in areas with severe soil limitations. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.38 The county supports the use of properly permitted and maintained package
sewage treatment plants within its borders but outside of proposed sewer service
areas. Package sewer treatment plants will only be allowed in developments which
have been approved by the county. If any package treatment plants are approved,
the county supports requirement of a. specific contingency plan specifying how
ongoing private operation and maintenance of the plant will be provided, and
detailing provisions for assumption of the plant into a public system should the
private operation fail. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.39 The county will support investigations by the District Health Department and
North Carolina State University concerning the use of package treatment plants as
a method of solving some of the severe sewage disposal problems in several of its
communities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.40 Camden County supports providing water and sewer services to identified
industrial areas when county resources are sufficient in order to encourage
industrial development. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
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P.41 In concert with this Land Use Plan, Camden County supports the master water and
sewer plan (Growth Management Plan) to guide new industrial development.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.42 The County supports the provision of public recreational facilities and areas and
will pursue grant funds for recreation facilities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions:
1.28 Implement the Camden County Growth Management Plan (2000) for water and
sewer, and plans for the provision of water and sewer service to the South Mills,
Camden, and Shiloh communities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
I.29 Camden County will update the Growth Management Plan. This plan addresses
water and sewer needs and serves as a facility strategy plan and not a formal
policy document. The county will utilize the master water and sewer plan (Growth
Management Plan) as a guide to establishing service and funding priorities for
developing industrial areas. Schedule: Fiscal Year2006-2007.
1.30 Camden County will amend the future land use map, when needed, to reflect the
county's water and sewer extension projects as they are planned. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
I.31 Camden County will consult the future land use map when considering new public
facilities and private development. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
I.32 Camden County will consider revising water and sewer extension policies to
ensure that public/private cooperation in the provision of infrastructure to serve
new development is encouraged. Schedule. Fiscal Year20062007.
1.33 , The county will rely on the Division of Environmental Management to oversee the
operation and management of all package treatment plants in the county.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.34 The county will consider adopting an operating and capital financing plan for the
development of water and sewer systems outside of the proposed water and
sewer service areas. Schedule. Fiscal Year 2007-2008.
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1.35 Camden County will revise the subdivision ordinance to incorporate provisions to
allow for the dedication of public park property and/or open space. This may
include a provision for payment in lieu of dedication if approved by the county.
Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005 2006.
1.36 Camden County will consider establishing a land banking fund into which the
county may annually contribute funds. Schedule: Fiscal Year 2007-2008.
1.37 Provide sufficient emergency management personnel and facilities to adequately
serve the projected population growth. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
I.38 The county will coordinate the development of recreational facilities with the
school system. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
6. Transportation
a. Management Goal: Camden County will achieve safe, efficient, reliable, environmentally -
sound, and economically feasible transportation within Camden County.
b. Planning Objective: Camden County will reduce traffic congestion and safety problems.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements:
Policies:
P.43 Camden County supports interconnected street systems for residential and non-
residential development. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.44 The county supports limited access from development along all roads and
highways to provide safe ingress and egress. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
P.45 Camden County supports subdivision development which utilizes the North
Carolina Department of Transportation Traditional Neighborhood Development
Street Design Guidelines. A Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) is a
human scale, walkable communitywith moderate to high residential densities and
a mixed use core. Compared with conventional suburban developments, TNDs
have a higher potential to increase modal split by encouraging and
accommodating alternate transportation modes. TNDs also have a higher
010

potential for capturing internal trips, thus reducing vehicle miles traveled. This
should be emphasized in the South Mills, Camden, and Shiloh study areas.
A dense network of narrow streets with reduced curb radii is fundamental to TND
design. This network serves to both slow and disperse vehicular traffic and
provide a pedestrian friendly atmosphere. Such alternate guidelines are
encouraged by NCDOT when the overall design ensures that non -vehicular travel
is to be afforded every practical accommodation that does not adversely affect
safety considerations. The overall function, comfort, and safety of a multi -purpose
or "shared" street are more important than its vehicular efficiency alone.
TNDs have a high proportion of interconnected streets, sidewalks, and paths.
Streets and rights -of -way are shared between vehicles (moving and parked),
bicycles, and pedestrians. The dense network of TND streets functions in an
interdependent manner, providing continuous routes that enhance non -vehicular
travel. Most TND streets are designed to minimize through traffic by the design
of the street and the location of land uses. Streets are designed to only be as wide
as needed to accommodate the usual vehicular mix for that street while providing
adequate access for moving.vans, garbage trucks, fire engines, and school buses.
It is NCDOT's intent that the development encourage walking and biking, enhance
transit service opportunities, and improve traffic safety through promoting low
speed, cautious driving, while fully accommodating the needs of pedestrians and
bicyclists.
Such developments should have the potential to reduce the number of external
vehicle trips, and thus vehicle miles traveled, by l 5% or more through provision of
commercial, recreational, and other resident -oriented destinations within a
walkable community. Traffic impacts, both on -site and off --site, should be
minimized. Revise zoning and subdivision ordinances. Schedule: Fiscal Year2005-
2006.
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P.46 Camden County specifically supports the following transportation improvement
projects:
Project
Number
Location
Description
R-2574*
US 158
East of NC 34 at Belcross in Camden County to NC
168 in Currituck County (widen to multiple lanes)
R-2414
US 158 to NC 34
East Of Pasquotank in Elizabeth City to east of NC
34 in Belcross (widen to multiple lanes)
B-4451*
NC 343
Jarvis Creek Replace Bridge No. 21
B-4452*
NC 343
Sawyer Creek Replace Bridge No. 20
B-3426*
SR1224
Joyce Creek Replace Bridge No. 2
B-4453*
SR 1235
Creek Replace Bridge No. 19
E4504
US 17, US 17 Bus., SR 1243
Virginia State Line to Village of South Mills
(Mullen Road)
(construct multi -use path)
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.47 The county supports maintaining an effective signage and addressing system for
all streets, roads, and highways. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.48 The county supports state and federal funding for maintenance/dredging of the
Intracoastal Waterway. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions:
1.39 Camden County will require where reasonably possible the utilization of frontage
roads in non-residential development along federal and state major highways.
Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
I.40 Camden County will establish a requirement for reverse frontage lots within
subdivisions to orient lots towards internal subdivision streets, not secondary
roads and highways. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
1.41 Camden Countywill require the construction of acceleration/deceleration lanes for
the entrances to major commercial and residential developments. This should be
accomplished through revisions to the county's subdivision ordinance. Schedule:
Fiscal Year 2005 2006.
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1.42 Camden County will consider establishing traffic impact studies. Schedule: Fiscal
Year 2005 2006.
1.43. Camden County will consider revising its subdivision ordinance to encourage the
development of joint or shared driveways in newly approved subdivisions.
Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005-2006.
L44 The county will review and update its subdivision ordinance to ensure compliance
with policies P.43 through P.48. Schedule. Fiscal Year20052006.
7. Natural Hazard Areas
a. Management Goal: Camden Countywill conserve and maintain shorelines, floodplains, and
other coastal features for their natural storm protection functions and their natural
resources giving recognition to public health, safety, and welfare issues.
b. Planning Objective: Camden County will develop policies that minimize threats to life,
property, and natural resources resulting from development located in or adjacent to
hazard areas, such as those subject to erosion, high winds, storm surge, flooding, or sea
level rise.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements: The following are Camden County's policies/implementing
actions for natural hazard areas. All policies are continuing activities.
Policies:
P.49 The county supports the enforcement of local controls and the efforts of state and
federal agencies with regulatory authority to restrict development within areas up
to five feet above mean high water susceptible to sea level rise and wetland loss.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.50 The county supports the installation of properly engineered and permitted
bulkheads. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.51 Camden County supports the US Army Corps of Engineers' regulations and the
applicable guidelines ofthe Coastal Area Management Act and the use of local land
use ordinances to regulate development of freshwater swamps, marshes, and 404
wetlands. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
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P.52 Camden County supports relocation of structures endangered by erosion, if the
relocated structure will be in compliance with all applicable policies and
regulations. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.53 Camden County recognizes the uncertainties associated with sea level rise. The
rate of rise is difficult to predict. Thus, it is difficult to establish policies to deal
with the effects of sea level rise. Camden County supports cooperation with
local, state, and federal efforts to inform the public of the anticipated effects of sea
level rise. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.54 Camden County supports hazard mitigation planning. Refer to the hazard
mitigation plan section of the Land Use Plan. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.55 Camden County supports the land use densities that are specified in the Land Use
Plan. Through enforcement ofthe zoning ordinance, these densities will minimize
damage from natural hazards and support the hazard mitigation plan. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions:
1.45 Camden County will continue to enforce its Floodplain Ordinance and participate
in the National Flood Insurance Program. It will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management to monitor and regulate development in areas up to five feet above
mean high water susceptible to sea level rise and wetland loss. Subdivision
regulations will be enforced — requiring elevation monuments to be set so that
floodplain elevations can be more easily determined. Schedule. ContinuingActivity.
1.46 The county will monitor development proposals for compliance with Section 404
of the Clean Water Act and will continue to enforce local land use ordinances to
regulate development of freshwater swamps, marshes, and 404 wetlands.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.47 Camden County permits redevelopment of previously developed areas, provided
all applicable policies, regulations, and ordinances are complied with. The county
will encourage redevelopment as a means for correcting housing problems,
upgrading commercial structures, and historic preservation (through rehabilitation
and adaptive reuse). Redevelopment, including infrastructure, should be designed
to withstand natural hazards. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
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I.48 Camden County will enforce the density controls in the zoning ordinance and
subdivision ordinance in redevelopment areas to control growth intensity.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.49 In response to possible sea level rise, Camden County will review all local building
and land use related ordinances and consider establishing setback standards,
density controls, bulkhead restrictions, buffer vegetation protection requirements,
and building designs which will facilitate the movement of structures. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
1.50 Camden County will utilize the future land use maps to control development.
These maps are coordinated with the land suitability maps and proposed
infrastructure maps. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
8. Water Quality
a. Management Goal. Camden County will maintain, protect, and where possible enhance
water quality in all coastal wetlands, rivers, streams, and estuaries. This should include
a means of addressing the complex problems of planning for increased development and
economic growth while protecting and/or restoring the quality and intended uses of the
basin's surface waters.
b. Planning Objective: Camden County will adopt policies for coastal waters within Camden
County to help ensure that water quality is maintained if not impaired and improved if
impaired.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements: The following provides Camden County's policies/implementing
actions on water quality.
Policies:
P.56 The county supports the guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act and the
efforts and programs of the North Carolina Department of Environment and
Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management and the Coastal Resources
Commission to protect the coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine
shorelines, and public trust waters of Camden County. It also supports the use of
best management practices recommendations of the United States Soil
Conservation Service for both agricultural and forestry areas. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
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P.57 Camden County supports conserving its surficial groundwater resources. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.58 The county supports commercial and recreational fishing in its waters and will
cooperate with other local governments and state and federal agencies to control
pollution of these waters to improve conditions so that commercial and
recreational fishing will increase. It also supports the preservation of nursery and
habitat areas, particularly the Great Dismal Swamp. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.59 The county supports the reforestation of clear cut timber lands and the use of best
forestry management practices. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.60 Camden County opposes the disposal of any toxic wastes, as defined by the US
Environmental Protection Agency's Listing of Hazardous Substances and Priority
Pollutants (developed pursuantto the Clean WaterAct of 1977), within its planning
jurisdiction. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.61 Camden County recognizes the value of water quality maintenance to the
protection of fragile areas and to the provision of clean water for recreational
purposes and supports the control of stormwater runoff to aid in the preservation
of water quality. The county will support existing state regulations relating to
stormwater runoff resulting from development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15
NCAC 2H.001-.1003). Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.62 Camden County supports regulation of underground storage tanks in order to
protect its groundwater resources. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.63 Camden County supports the policy that all State of North Carolina projects should
be designed to limit to the extent possible stormwater runoff into coastal waters.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.64 Camden County supports implementation of the Pasquotank River Basin Water
Quality Management Plan. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.65 The county supports protection ofthose waters known to be ofthe highest quality
or supporting biological communities of special importance. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
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P.66 The county supports management of problem pollutants, particularly biological
oxygen demand and nutrients, in order to correct existing water quality problems
and to ensure protection of those waters currently supporting their uses. This
effort should focus on residential development adjacent to Joyce, Areneuse, and
Sawyer's Creeks. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.67 Camden County opposes the installation of package treatment plants and septic
tanks or discharge of waste in any areas classified as coastal wetlands, freshwater
wetlands (404), or natural heritage areas. This policy, does not apply to
constructed wetlands. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.68 Camden County supports the following actions by the General Assembly and the
Governor:
Sufficient state funding should be appropriated to initiate a program of
incentives grants to address pollution of our rivers from both point sources
and nonpoint sources. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
An ongoing source of state funding should be developed to provide
continuous support for an incentives grant program. Schedule. Continuing
Activity.
— The decision -making process for the award of incentives grants should
involve river basin organizations representing local governments and other
interest groups in the review of all applications for state funding. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
— The ongoing effort of the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources to develop administrative rules implementing the Pasquotank
River Basin Management Strategy should continue to involve local
government officials in the development, review, and refinement of the
proposal. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.69 Camden County supports all aquaculture activities which meet applicable federal,
state, and local policies and permit requirements. However, Camden County
reserves the right to comment on all aquaculture activities which require Division
of Water Quality permitting. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
:fcm

P.70 Camden County objects to any discharge of water from aquaculture activities that
will degrade in any way the receiving waters. The county objects to withdrawing
water from aquifers or surface sources if such withdrawal will endanger water
quality or water supply from the aquifers or surface sources. Schedule: Continuing
Activity and to be considered in the Fiscal Year 2005 2006 zoning ordinance update.
P.71 Camden County supports only aquaculture activities which do not alter
significantly and negatively the natural environment or coastal wetlands, estuarine
waters, and public trust areas. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.72 Camden County supports the establishment of mooring fields within its planning
jurisdiction. However, the county recognizes that improperly regulated mooring
fields may result in water degradation. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.73 Camden County does not support the location of floating homes within its
jurisdiction. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
Implementing; Actions:
I.51 The countywill complywith CAMA and NC Division of Environmental Management
stormwater runoff regulations, and by coordinating local development activities .
involving chemical storage or underground storage tank installation/abandonment
with Camden County Emergency Management personnel and the. Groundwater
Section ofthe North Carolina Division of Environmental Management. The county
will plan for an adequate long-range water supply. In the planning process,
Camden Countywill cooperate with adjacent counties to protectwater resources.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.52 The county will enforce its zoning and subdivision regulations to aid in protecting
sensitive shoreline areas. It will rely on state and federal agencies to promote and
protect the Great Dismal Swamp, as well as other nursery and habitat areas.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.53 The county will review and amend the local zoning ordinance with regard to
underground chemical and gasoline storage regulations to ensure a minimum of
risk to local groundwater resources. This will include revisions to the county's
zoning ordinance to establish a heavy industrial district and only allow large
chemical/fuel storage facilities in the heavy industrial district. Schedule: Fiscal Year
2005 2006.
44

I.54 Camden County will rely on the technical requirements and state program
approval for underground storage tanks (40 CFR, Parts 280 and 281), and any
subsequent state regulations concerning underground storage tanks adopted
during the planning period. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.55 Camden County will continuously enforce, through the development and zoning
permit process, all current regulations of the NC State Building Code and North
Carolina Division of Health Services relating to building construction and septic
tank installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
1.56 Camden County will implement the following actions through local ordinances to
improve water quality (Note: these actions are especially significant in areas
adjacent to Areneuse, Sawyer's, and Joyce Creeks):
- Use watershed -based land use planning
Protect sensitive natural areas, including coastal wetlands
Establish buffer network
— Minimize impervious cover in site design
Limit erosion during construction
— Maintain coastal growth measures
— Restoration of impaired waters
— Management ofthe cause and sources of pollution to ensure the protection
of those waters currently supporting their uses allowing for reasonable
economic growth.
Reduction of nutrients in Camden County waters. Schedule: Review local
ordinances annually.
1.57 Preservation of wetlands is important to the protection/improvement of water
quality in Camden County. The following will be implemented:
Consider preservation of large wetland areas (> one acre) in a natural state
to protect their environmental value. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
— Coordinate all development review with the appropriate office of the US
Army Corps of Engineers and the Soil Conservation Service. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
45

— Require that wetland areas be surveyed and delineated on all preliminary
and final subdivision plats. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
Encourage cluster development in order to protect sensitive natural areas.
Schedule: Fiscal Year 2005 2006, revised zoning and subdivision ordinances.
— Make wetlands acquisition a priority in future expansions of Camden
County parks and recreation areas. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.58 Camden County will revise its zoning ordinance to regulate the location of
aquaculture activities. Schedule: Fiscal Year2005-2006.
I.59 Camden County will develop a local ordinance and a waterfront development plan
to regulate the development of mooring fields. Schedule: Fiscal Year20052006.
9. Local Areas of Concern
a. Management Goal: Camden County will integrate local concerns with the overall goals of
CAMA in the context of land use planning.
b. Planning Objective: Camden Countywill identify and address local concerns and issues, such
as cultural and historic areas, scenic areas, economic development, or general health and
human services needs.
C. Land Use Plan Requirements: The following provides Camden County's policies/implementing
actions on local areas of concern. All policies are continuing activities.
Policies - Cultural. Historic, and Scenic Areas:
P.74 The county supports local, state, and federal efforts to protect historic properties
within its borders and to perpetuate its cultural heritage. Sites of historic
significance are identified in the Land Use Plan. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.75 Camden County supports protection and preservation of the Great Dismal Swamp
which has both historic and environmental significance. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
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Implementing Actions Cultural, Historic, and Scenic Areas:
1.60 Camden County will guide development so as to protect historic and potentially
historic properties in the county and to perpetuate the county's cultural heritage.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.61 Camden County will encourage a county -wide survey of historical sites by local
volunteers or state and federal agencies and will seek grant monies within the next
two years for the complete inventory of historically significant structures and sites.
Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.62 Camden County shall coordinate all housing code enforcement/redevelopment
projectswiththe NC Division of Archives and History, to ensure that any
significant architectural details or buildings are identified and preserved. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
1.63 Camden County will coordinate all county public works projects with the NC
Division of Archives and History, to ensure the identification and preservation of
significant archaeological sites. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Policies Economic Development:
P.76 Tourism is important to Camden County and will be supported by the county.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.77 The county will encourage development in Camden County to protect the county's
resources, preserve its rural atmosphere, and simultaneously promote industrial
and retail growth. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
P.78 The county will encourage industrial and commercial development in areas with
existing infrastructure that does not infringe on existing medium density
residential areas. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.79 Camden County supports the extension of water services from existing systems
and encourages the use of central systems for new developments whether
residential, commercial, or industrial in nature (see policy P.35). Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
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P.80 The county supports the location of staging areas and support facilities for energy
related activities — particularly exploration. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions - Economic Development:
1.64 Camden County will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina
Division of Travel and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related
industry, efforts to promote tourism -related commercial activity, and efforts to
enhance and provide shoreline resources. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.65 Camden County will continue to support the activities of the Camden County
Department of Tourism. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
1.66 Camden County will support projects that will increase public access to shoreline
areas. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.67 Camden County will support North Carolina Department of Transportation
projects to improve access to and within the county. Schedule: ContinuingActivity.
1.68 Camden County will support the following in the pursuit of industrial
development:
-- Encourage placement of new heavy industrial development to have
minimum adverse effect on the county's ecosystem and by encouraging
areas of concentrations of such uses be considered first when suitable
infrastructure is available consistent with the growth policy of the future
land development map. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
-- Re -zone additional parcels for industrial and commercial use along existing
growth corridors with adequate infrastructure existing or planned and,
when the need is demonstrated, provide a consistent growth policy with
amendments to the future land development map when revision is needed.
This will accommodate the future demand for additional industrial and
commercial development in suitable areas. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
-- Encourage industrial development in industrial park sites by improving the
provision of services such as water, sewer, and natural gas. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
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1.69 Camden County will continue to maintain the Industrial Development Committee
and seek grant monies to encourage and promote economic and industrial
development. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Policies - General Health and Human Services Needs:
P.81 Camden County supports the continued public provision of solid waste disposal,
law enforcement, and educational services to all citizens of the county. Schedule:
Continuing Activity.
P.82 The county supports strengthening legislation to regulate off -road vehicle usage
on private property. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.83 Camden County opposes the establishment of military outlying landing fields
(OLFs). Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.84 The county supports local, state, and federal efforts to minimize the adverse
impact of man-made hazards within its borders. Camden County will utilize its
development controls and will rely on state and federal agencies with jurisdiction
to minimize the impact of man-made hazards. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
P.85 In an effort to improve health conditions, Camden County supports the following
water and sewer policies:
— Camden County supports the extension of central water service into all
areas of the county shown on the future land suitability analysis map as
suitable for development, including the construction of lines to and
through conservation areas to serve development which meets all
applicable state and federal regulations. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
The county is aware that inappropriate land uses near well fields increase
the possibility ofwell contamination. Land uses near groundwater sources
are regulated bythe.North Carolina Division of Environmental Management
through NCAC Subchapter 2L and Subchapter 2C. Camden County
recognizes the importance of protecting potable water supplies, and
therefore supports the enforcement of these regulations. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
49

— Camden County supports all efforts to secure available state and federal
funding for the construction and/or expansion of public and private
water/sewer systems. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
- Camden County supports the construction ofwater systems with adequate
line sizes to ensure adequate water pressure and fire protection. Schedule.
Continuing Activity.
Camden County will continue to provide water services to county residents
and will continue the process of studying the role of county government
in providing sewage treatment facilities for rapidly growing areas of the
county, including the construction of lines to and through conservation
areas to serve development which meets all applicable state and federal
regulations. The county will secure federal and state grants, when feasible,
to help carry out this policy. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Implementing Actions - General Health and Human Services Needs:
I.70 The county will investigate, with the Institute of Government, the use of impact
fees as a way of making new development pay for the services demanded.
Schedule: Fiscal Year20062007.
1.71 The county will seek educational grants to subsidize continuing education at
nearby colleges and universities and support community education programs.
Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.72 Camden County officials are aware that a clean community projects a positive
image for industry, new businesses, and visitors to the area and will continue to
support the efforts of the Clean County Department. Complementing and
supporting the primary goal of reducing litter and preserving and protecting
natural resources, the Committee will address other community issues to include,
but not be limited to, those listed below:
The Clean County Department staff will work with schools, business and
industry, civic clubs, governments, and the media to provide
comprehensive involvement of the community in the Keep America
Beautiful System. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
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The Department and staff will continue to educate the public regarding
alternatives to landfilling solid waste, with an educational focus on
recycling and the problems and damages to the environment caused by
illegal dumping. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
The county will continue assisting with beautification of county container
sites. Clean-up work at container sites will continue with the availability
of court assigned community service workers. Schedule. ContinuingActivity.
I.73 Floodplain regulation is a concern in Camden County. To accomplish protection
of public health and service needs, Camden County will:
— Continue to enforce the flood hazard reduction provisions of the Camden
County Land Development Ordinances. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
Prohibit the installation of underground storage tanks in the 100-year
floodplain. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
— Zone for open space, recreational, agricultural, or other low -intensity uses
within the floodplain. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
Prohibit the development of any industry within the 100-year floodplain
that may pose a risk to public health and safety. Such industries may
include but not be limited to: chemical refining and processing, petroleum
refining and processing, hazardous material processing, or storage
facilities. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
1.74 To effectively manage Camden County's investment in existing and proposed
community facilities and services, the county will:
Develop a specific capital improvements plan (CIP) with emphasis placed
on services and facilities which affect growth and development (see
implementing action 1.34). Schedule. Fiscal Year20062007.
Provide the Camden County Board of Education with locational information
on all residential development. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
— In concert with the Camden County Board of Education, develop a plan for
the protection of future school sites. Schedule: Fiscal Year 2006-2007.
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1.75 Camden County will provide sufficient emergency services to all residents. The
county will implement the following:
Require that all necessary infrastructure firefighting capability/capacity be
provided in new subdivisions and developments. Schedule: Continuing
Activity.
— Continue to maintain an effective signage and addressing system for all
streets, roads, and highways. Schedule: Continuing Activity.
I.76 Camden County will adopt a management plan for the proposed Camden County
Landfill. That plan will address the associated land use issues identified on page
132. Schedule: FY20062007.
Implementing Actions - Funding Options:
1.77 Camden County will continue to support state and federal programs that are
deemed necessary, cost-effective, and within the administrative and fiscal
capabilities of Camden County. Scheduler Continuing Activity. These include:
— Community Development Block Grant Program
— Area Agency on Aging
Emergency Medical Services
— JTPA Work Program
— Farmer's Home House Preservation Program
— Coastal Area Management Act, including shoreline access funds
— Small Business Association
— Economic Development Administration Funds
— Farmer's Home Administration — Federal Grant Program
— Federal Emergency Management Program
Aid to Families with Dependent Children
— MEDICAID
— Day Care
— Crisis Intervention
I.78 Camden County will selectively support state and federal programs related to
Camden County. The county, through its boards, commissions, and committees,
will monitor state and federal programs and regulations. It will use opportunities
as they are presented to voice support for or to disagree with programs and
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regulations that are proposed by state and federal agencies. Schedule. Continuing
Activity.
I.79 Camden County officials will continue to work with the Army Corps of Engineers
and any other state and federal agencies to ensure continued dredging and
maintenance of channels and rivers as needed to keep these facilities open to
navigation. These efforts shall comply with applicable state and federal
regulations. Providing borrow or spoil areas and provision of easements for work
will be determined on case -by -case basis. The county would encourage spoil
material being placed on those areas where easements for such use already exist.
Channel maintenance has major economic significance and is worthy of state and
federal funding. Schedule. Continuing Activity.
10. Schedule
The policies and implementing actions that have specific time frames are summarized below;
policies and implementing actions that are shown as continuing activities are not listed.
Fiscal Year 2005-2006
P.15, P.44, P.45, P.70,1.1,1.2,1.9, I.10, I.11,1.19,1.21,1.22,1.25,1.26,1.35, I.39,1.40,1.41,1.42,1.43,
1.44, 1.53, 1.57, I.58, 1.59
Fiscal Year 2006-2007
1.15, 1.27, 1.29, 1.32, 1.70,1.74, 1.76
Fiscal Year 2007-2008
1.34, I.36
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