Land Use Plan Update-1997

1997
' COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
' APPROVED BY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:
September 8. 1998
' CERTIFIED BY COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION.:
September 25, 1998
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
Troy Lane Mayo. Chairman D. Scott Coble, Vice Chairman
Willie E. Gibbs Barbara 0. Deese
Frank D. (Wayne) Teeter, Jr.
OCRACOKE PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD
Earl O'Neal, Chairman Marlene Matthews, Vice Chairman
Buffy Warner Gerald Midgette
David F. O'Neal, Vice Chairman Rudy Austin
Keith O'Neal William D. Gaskill
' WRITERS
Land Use Plan
' Monroe Gaskill Stella O'Neal
George Roberson, Jr. Darlene Styron
STAFF
' Jeff M. Credle, County Manager
Alice Keeney, County Planner
Geri Pittman, Secretary
CONSULTANTS
William C. Overman Associates, P.C.
380 Cleveland Place
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462
William R. Turner, Jr., AICP
Certified as Planner -In -Charge By The
' North Carolina Divisir- ^{ rn=ctai MananPmPntt.
j
The :reparation of this document vas financed in part through
pro -:ed by the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972. as aw-4Nat:r.l Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
WRT\9703-',v-2 DCM COPYDCM COPY
lease do not remove!!!!!
' Division of Coastal Management

' ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The Board of Commissioners and Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board wish to
' express their gratitude to all of the people who gave of their time and talent to
make this update a success.
L�
WRT\9703-NOV-2

COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
Letter of Transmittal
Acknowledgments
Table of Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . i
List
of Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . vi i
List
of Exhibits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . '. . . .
. . . . vi i i
List
of Maps
ix
List
of Appendices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . x
Executive Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . xi
I.
THE PLANNING PROCESS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . I-1
A. North Carolina Land Use Planning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . I-1
B. The Hyde County Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . I-1
II.
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . II-1
III.
ABOUT HYDE COUNTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III -1
A. Information Base . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . .III-1
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-1
2. Analysis of Hyde County North Carolina
1992 CAMA Land Use Plan (1992 Plan) . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-1
a. Policies Selected and Implementation
Analysis as of 1997 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-1
b. Comparison Of Current Policies To Policies
of Adjoining Counties . . . .
. . . III-2
e_
c. Improvements Anticipated In County of Hyde.
North Carolina CAMA Land Use Plan Update 1997
III-2
B . Hyde County Today . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III -3
1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-3
2. People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III -3
3. Land Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III -7
4. Utilities and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-13
a. Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-13
b . Sewer System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III -14
c. Solid Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-16
d. Public Schools -.
III-16
e. Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-17
f. Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-17
g. Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-18
h. Electrical Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-19
i. General Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . III-19
WRT\9703-NOV-2 i

5
6
7
0
Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-19
a.
Vehicular Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-19
b.
Ferry Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-23
c.
Navigable Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-23
d.
Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -24
Housing
and Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-24
Plans.
Studies, and Regulations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-28
a.
Building Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-28
b.
National Flood Insurance Program . . .
III-28
c.
Hyde County Transportation Development Plan . . . . . . .
III-28
d.
Hyde County, Engelhard, Swan Quarter, and Ocracoke
Shoreline Economic Development Study . . . . . . . . .
III-29
e.
Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance . . . . . . . . . .
III-29
f.
1992 Hyde County CAMA Land Use Plan (1992 Plan)
III-29
g.
Hyde County Economic Diversification Study . . . . . . . .
III-29
h.
Swan Quarter Revitalization Plan . . . . . . . . . . .
III-29
i.
Hyde County Water Supply Plan
III-30
j.
Water Supply Plan, Town of Ocracoke, North Carolina
III-30
k.
Albemarle Regional Solid Waste Management Plan . . . . . .
III-30
Land Suitability Constraints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-30
a.
Physical Limitations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-30
(1) Man -Made Hazards
III-30
(2) Topography, Geology, and Groundwater Resources
III-31
(3) Flood Hazard Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-32
(4) Areas With Soils Limitations
III-34
(5) Estuarine High Erosion Rate Areas . . . . . . . .
III-37
(6) Surface Water and Watersheds
III-37
(7) Areas Where Predominant Slope Exceeds Twelve Percent
III-37
b.
Areas of Environmental Concern and Fragile Areas
III-37
(1) Ocean Hazard AEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-37
(2) Coastal Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-37
(3) Estuarine Waters
III-38
(4) Estuarine Shoreline AEC . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-38
(5) Public Trust Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-38
(6) Outstanding Resource Waters . . . . . . . . . . .
III-39
(7) 404 Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-40
(8) Natural Resource Fragile Areas . . . . . . . . . .
III-41
(9) Historic and Archaeological Sites
III-41
-
(10) Maritime Forests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-43
(11) Other Fragile Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-43
c.
Areas With Resource Potential . . . . . . ... . . . . .
III-43
(1) Agricultural and Forest Lands . . . . . . . . . .
III-43
(2) Valuable Mineral Resources . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-44
(3) Public Forests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-44
(4) Public Parks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-44
(5) Public Gamelands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-44
(6) Private Wildlife Sanctuaries . . . . . . . . . . .
III-45
(7) Marine Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-45
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I
-46
a.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I
-46
b.
Tourism and Recreation
III-52
c.
Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-53
d.
Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-53
e.
Real Estate and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-54
1
11
W;- .9703-NOV-2
ii

n
11
fl
- f. Wholesale and Retail Trade and Services . . . . . . . . III-54.
g. Government Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-54
C. Hyde County Tomorrow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-55
1.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-55
2.
People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -55
3.
Land Need . . .
III-57
4.
Utilities and Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-58
a. Water System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -58
b. Sewer System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-58
c. Solid Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-59
d. Public Schools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . . . . .
I I I -59
e. Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-59
f. Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -59
g. Health Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-60
h. Storm Drainage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-60
5.
Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-60
a. Vehicular Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-60
b. Ferry Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-61
c. Navigable Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -61
d. Airport . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-62
6.
Housing and Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-62
7.
Economy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
I I I -63
a. Introduction . . . . . . . .
III-63
b. Tourism and Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-64
c. Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-64
d. Manufacturing . . . . .
III-65
e. Real Estate and Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-65
f. Wholesale and Retail Trade and Services . . . . . . . . _
III-65
g. Government Employment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-65
h. Cross Creek Healthcare, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-65
i. North Carolina Department of Corrections . . . . . . . . .
III-66
IV. LAND USE ISSUES, BACKGROUND, POLICIES, AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES . .
. IV-1
A. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-1
B. Timing of Implementation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-2
C. Resource Protection Issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-2
1.
Constraints to Development - Soils and Septic Tank Use . . . .
IV-2
2.
Constraints to Development - Flood Prone Areas . . . . . .
IV-3
3.
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) and Fragile Areas
IV-4
a. Ocean Hazard AEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-4
b. Estuarine Shoreline AEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-4
c. Freshwater Swamps and Marshes . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-6
d. Maritime Vegetation and Forests . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-6
e. Pocosins and 404 Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-7
f. Outstanding Resource Waters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-8
g. Coastal Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-8
h. Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas . . . . . . . . .
IV-10
i. Silver Lake
IV-11
4.
Means of Protecting Potable Water Supply and Groundwater Quality.
IV-12
WRT\9703-NOV-2
iii

S.
Package Treatment Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-13
6.
Stormwater Runoff and Its Impact on Coastal
Wetlands. Surface Waters. or Other Fragile Areas . . . . . . .
IV-14
7.
Marinas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-15
'
8.
Floating Structures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-16
9.
Dry Stack Storage Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-16
10.
Docks and Piers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-17
'
11.
Temporary Moorings and Mooring Fields . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-19
12.
Industrial Impact on Fragile Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-20
13.
Restriction of Development Within Areas That Might Be
Susceptible to Sea Level Rise . . . . . . . . . . '. . . . . .
. IV-20
,
14.
Upland Excavation for Marina Basins . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-21
15.
Bulkhead Installation . . .
IV-22
16.
Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands . . . . . .
. IV-23
'
17.
Man -Made Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-23
18.
Water Quality Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-24
'
D. Resource Production and Management Issues . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-26
1.
Importance of Agriculture, Forestry, Mining, Fisheries,
and Recreational Resources . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-26
,
2.
Productive Agricultural Lands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-27
3.
Commercial Forest Lands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-28
4.
Existing and Potential Mineral Production Areas . . . . . . .
. IV-28
,
5.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries, Shellfishing
Waters, and Nursery and Habitat Areas . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-29
6.
Trawling Activities in Estuarine Waters . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-30
'
7.
Off -Road Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-30
8.
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development
Impacts on Any Resource . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-30
9.
Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impact on Any Resource . . . . . .
. IV-31
'
10.
Aquaculture Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. IV-32
E. Economic and Community Development Issues . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-32
'
1.
Types and Locations of Industries Desired-
IV-32
2.
Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development . . .
. . IV-33
3.
Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-35
'
.4.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-36
5.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-37
6.
Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-38
'
7.
Energy Facility Siting and Development . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-40
a. Electric Generating Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-40
b. Inshore and Outer Continental Shelf Exploration . . . .
. . IV-40
'
8.
Tourism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-41
9.
Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-42
10.
Types, Densities. Location, and Units Per Acre of
Anticipated Residential Development and Services
,
Necessary to Support Such Development . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-43
11.
Existing Tax Base and Employment Opportunities . . . . . . .
. . IV-44
12.
Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-45
'
13.
Community Appearance and Litter Control and Removal . . . .
. . IV
46
14.
Recreational Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . IV-46
,
WRT\9703-NOV-2
iv

11
15.
Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-48
'
16.
Education
IV-48
17.
Electrical Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-49
18.
Cable Television Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-49
'
19.
Public Water Facilities
IV-50
20.
Public Sewer Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV 50
=1.
Transportation System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
a. Beautification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-52
IV-52
. . . .
b. Ferry System . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-52
c. Vehicular Movement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-53
22.
Uses Of and Activities In and On Ocean: Rivers: and :Sound . . .
IV-54
23.
Point Source Wastewater Discharge
IV-55
24.
Cultural or Historical Resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-55
25.
Facilities for Physically Challenged Persons . . . . . . . . . .
IV-57
'
26.
Hospital and Access to Medical Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-58
27.
Picnic Areas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-58
28.
Public Water Accesses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-59
29.
Coastal Airspace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-59
IV-60
a. Minimum Altitudes . . .
b. Noise Pollution . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-60
c. Use of Coastal Airspace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-60
d. Water- and Wetlands -Based Target Areas for
Military Training Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-61
30.
Private Sewage Utilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-61
31.
Mosquito Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-62
32.
Solid Waste and Recycling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-62
33.
Dredging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-62
'
34.
Facilities for Senior Citizens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-63
F.
Public Participation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-63
'
G.
Storm Hazard Mitigation, Evacuation, and Post -Disaster Reconstruction
IV-64
1.
Introduction . .
IV-64
2.
3.
Storm Hazard Mitigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Reconstruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-65
IV-69
. . . . . . . .
a. Post -Disaster Recovery Team . .
IV-69
b. Immediate Cleanup and Debris Removal -
IV-70
c. Long Term Recovery/Restoration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-70
(1) Damage Assessments
IV-70
(2) Reconstruction Development Standards . . . . . . . .
IV-72
(3) Development Moratoria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-73
(4) Repair/Reconstruction Schedule
IV-74
(5) Agency Responsible for Implementation . . . . . . .
IV-74
(6) Repair and Replacement of Public Utilities . . . . .
IV-74
(7) Permitting . . . . . . . . . . . .
IV-74
IV-76
4.
Hurricane Evacuation . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
5.
Re -Entry
IV-77
CLASSIFICATION
. . . . . . . .
V-1
V. LA',D
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
A.
Introduction
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-1
IWRT\97:3-NOV-2 v

Q. Mainland Land Classifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-1
1.
Developed Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-1
2.
Community Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-1
3.
Rural Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-2
4.
Rural With Services Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-2
5.
Conservation Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-2
a. Coastal Wetlands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-2
b. Estuarine Shoreline . . .
V-2
c. Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Estuarine Shorelines
V-3
d. Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas . . . . . . . . .
V-3
e. Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-3
C. Mainland Land Classifications and Land Use Policies
V-3
1.
Developed Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-3
2.
Community Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-3
3.
Rural Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-4
4.
Rural With Services Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-4
5.
Conservation Class . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
V-4
D. Ocracoke Island Land Classification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . V-5
E. Ocracoke Island Land Classifications and Land Use Policies . . . . V-5
Workshops and Meetings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . WS&M-1
Sources Consulted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SC-1
APPENDICES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Al-1
MAPS..................................... REAR
SLEEVES
WRT\9103-NOV-2 vi

LIST OF TABLES
'
Page No.
TABLE
1
Population Estimates, Totals and By Age Group, 1990-1995.
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-6
III-23
TABLE
2
Ferry Statistics, Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . .
. . .
TABLE
3
Housing Profile: Occupancy and Tenure and Water and Sewer. 1980 and
1990,
Hyde County, North Carolina
. III-25
TABLE
4
Housing Profile: Age and Number of Units in Structure. 1930-1997
Hyde County, North Carolina
. III-26
TABLE
5
Housing Profile: Values for Owner Occupied Housing Units, 1990,
'
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-27
TABLE
6
Permits Issued for New Construction, 1990-1997,
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-27
TABLE
7
Soil Associations and Use Limitations - Mainland,
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
III-35
TABLE
8
Soil Associations and Use Limitations - Ocracoke Island,
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-36
'
TABLE
9
Employment by Sector: 1980, 1990, and 1994,
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-47
'
TABLE
10
Total Employment and Total Earnings: 1970, 1980. 1990, and 1993
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-48
'
TABLE
11
Persons in Households with Public Assistance Income 1989,
(Universe: Persons in Households), Hyde County, North Carolina
III-50
'
TABLE
12
Poverty Status in 1989 by Sex and Age, Hyde County, North Carolina
. . . III-51
TABLE
13
Income Profile: 1970. 1980,-and 1990, Hyde County, North. Carolina
. . . III-52
eTABLE
14
Retail Trade Profile: 1992, Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . .
. . . III-54
TABLE
15
Employment by Sector - Government, Hyde County, North Carolina
III-55
TABLE
16
Historical Population and Population Projections: 1970-2020,
Hyde County, North Carolina . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . III-55
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 vii

Page No.
EXHIBIT 1 County Profile, Hyde County, North Carolina
Source: State Data Center, North Carolina Office of State Planning . . . III-4
EXHIBIT 2 Ocracoke Sanitary District Water System Summary
Source: Ocracoke Sanitary District . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . III-15
EXHIBIT 3 Excerpt from 1997-2003 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
of the North Carolina Department of Transportation
Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation . . . . . . . . . . III-21
EXHIBIT 4 Repair/Reconstruction Activities and Schedule
Source: 1992 Hyde County CAMA Land Use Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . IV-75
WRT\9703-NOV-2 vi i i

Page No.
MAP
1 Existing Land Use - Mainland
(Predominant/General). Hyde County,
North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
2 Existing Land Use - Ocracoke
Island (Predominant/General), Hyde
County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
3 Flood Hazard Areas, Hyde County,
North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
4 Soil Associations - Mainland,
Hyde County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
5 Soil Associations -'Ocracoke
Island, Hyde County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
6 Areas of Environmental Concern
and Fragile Areas - Mainland
Hyde County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
7 Areas of Environmental Concern
and Fragile Areas - Ocracoke Island
Hyde County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
8 Land Classification System -
Mainland, Hyde County, North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
MAP
9 Land Classification System -
Ocracoke Island, Hyde County,
North Carolina
Rear
Sleeve
WRT\9703-NOV-2
ix

Page No.
APPENDIX 1: Marinas and Dockages, Hyde County
SOURCE: North Carolina Division of Coastal Management, 1995. A1-1
APPENDIX 2: Index to Watersheds by County, Hyde County
SOURCE: North Carolina Division of Water Quality. A2-1
APPENDIX 3: Confined Animal Operations Registrations as of,August 1996, Hya= County
SOURCE: North Carolina Division of Water Quality. A3-1
APPENDIX 4: Public Education and Citizen Participation Plan for
Use in Preparing the 1997 County of Hyde, North Carolina
Land Use Plan Update A4-1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 X

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
As the word "update" implies. the planning effort represented by this document
was
geared toward providing a "snapshot" of Hyde County in 1997 as compared to
'
1992. Generally, the picture shows a County that is an appealing place to live and
to
visit. a County that has made strides to improve itself, and a County that is
looking for better ways to serve the public and meet the demands of the future.
•
The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a cooperative
program of coastal area management between local governments and the State.
'
Land use planning lies at the center of local governments involvement.
•
Hyde County was formed in 1705 as Wickham Precinct of Bath County. The name
was changed to Hyde about 1712.
'9
Sound, by
Located in the east section of the State, it is bounded by Pamlico
Beaufort, Washington, Tyrrell, and Dare Counties, and (on the Outer Banks) by
the Atlantic Ocean and Dare and Carteret Counties. The County is named for
Governor Edward Hyde who died in 1712.
Hyde County contains 1,378.1 square miles of total area, of which 612.83 square
'
miles are land.
•
The estimated 1997 population of Hyde County is 5,370 persons.
'0
The County seat is Swan Quarter, North Carolina.
•
Dramatic or drastic changes - land use related or otherwise - have not occurred
in Hyde County since 1992.
•
Hyde County has a well -dispersed, rural populace -- in fact, there are no
municipalities in the County.
•
Hyde County. has the lowest population density in North Carolina.
•
The County's recent and planned projects with respect to the provision of water
-
- -
and sewer will -correct many of the -utility infrastructure deficiencies.----
`
The population of Ocracoke Island is concentrated in Ocracoke Village
(Village), which is located on the soundside of the widest and southernmost
part of the island.
•
The island comprises 5.575 acres in all, and except for the Village (775
acres), is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreation Area.
•
Ocracoke Island's population increased 31.8% from 541 persons in 1970 to 713
persons in 1990.
•
The Ocracoke Sanitary District estimates the current year-round population on
the island to be 790.
'
The mainland's population should stabilize or increase with the locating of the
NC Correctional Facility and the island population will continue to grow.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 Xi

•
The peak seasonal population of 8.046 combined with the 1990 permanent
'
population (5,411) results in 13.457 as the total peak population estimated for
Hyde County in 1990.
•
With a few exceptions, land use patterns in Hyde County have remained unchanged
'
throughout the 1990s.
•
The State owns 17,598 acres in Hyde county.. The majority c' State-owned
'
property is located in the Gull Rock Wildlife Management area. In addition.
the Federal government owns over 110,000 acres in Hyde CoLgty, most associated
with national wildlife refuges. Some 117,923 acres are it refuges. The
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) encompasses 16,672 acres. The
'
Mattamuskeet NWR is 50,177 acres while the Pocosin NWR is 34,663 acres. The
NWR around Swan Quarter is 16,411 acres.
•
According to the 1992 Hyde County Agricultural Profile, tte land in acres in
-farms was 93,728 acres.
•
Support for the establishment of zoning and subdivision regulations should grow
during the planning period.
•
Hyde County's water system has two active reverse osmosis (RO) plants. Source
'
water is taken from four wells, two at each plant.
•
There are four active elevated tanks on mainland Hyde Cour-y. The total holding
,
capacity for the County is 650,000 gallons.
•
On the mainland, Hyde County's existing public facility waterlines -- 213 miles
of lines -- serve 1,760 customers. Lines serve western Hyde County and eastern
,
Beaufort County. Peak demand in 1997 was 650,000 gallons per day. The North
Carolina Department of Corrections facilities require 75,000 gallons per day,
'
•
The Ocracoke Sanitary District provides water service to Ocracoke Island. As of
July, 1997, there were 991 meters. The system has two deep wells for regular
use.
'
•
Water supply plans have been developed for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
•
The County does not have a centralized sewage collection and disposal system
.,although a facultative lagoon with a spray irrigation system to serve
approximately 295 structures in the Engelhard area is under design.
'
•
Septic tanks are the sole means of waste water disposal for nearly the entire
County.
'
•
There is no solid waste landfill in Hyde County. All solid waste which is non-
recyclable is sent to landfills in Dare or Beaufort Countyes or to the East
Carolina Environmental, Inc. facility in Bertie County.
• The Albemarle Regional Solid Waste Management Authority assisted its members
and participating municipalities -- including Hyde County -- with the Solid
Waste Management Plans, as required by N. C. General Statue 130A-309.09A(b). ,
• There are three approved solid waste convenience sites on mainland Hyde County
located at Engelhard. Swan Quarter, and Ponzer.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xi

With the completion of a new facility at the Mattamuskeet School site in 1998.
'•
both Davis and O.A. Peay schools will be closed.
•
There is one public school on Ocracoke Island. The Ocracoke School was
'
constructed in 1971 and serves grades K- 12.
•
Mainland Hyde County has no parks and no formal public recreation program.
However, a community scale, passive recreation park in the Ponzer area will be -
completed in 1997-98.
'•
There are four National Wildlife Refuge areas in mainland Hyde County.
•
The Sheriff's Department on mainland Hyde County has ten employees. There are
'
three deputies serving Ocracoke Island. There are three full-time state
trooper slots for Hyde County.
•
Hyde County is served by five in -county volunteer fire departments serving the
'
Englehard, Swan Quarter, Fairfield, and Scranton areas of the mainland and
Ocracoke Island.
There are three ambulances in mainland Hyde County, each with two full-time,
'•
paid, certified emergency medical personnel. Hyde County maintains four full-
time certified EMTs on Ocracoke, and a modern fully -equipped ambulance. The
Belhaven Rescue Squad, in neighboring Beaufort County, provides emergency
'
rescue services to the northwest portion of Hyde County.
•
The Hyde County Health Department is staffed with five full-time registered
nurses and two licensed practical nurses. A Family Nurse Practitioner visits
'
the department once a week. The department employs a speech therapist, a
physical therapist, and an occupational therapist on a contract basis.
•
Tideland Mental Health (a five -county agency funded by State and local
revenues) in Washington (Beaufort County) operates an outpatient satellite
office in Swan Quarter and an Adult Development Day Activity Program (ADDAP) in
Fairfield.
•
Cross -Creek Health Care, Inc. operates --an 80-bed long-term care nursing home_
'
facility two miles from Swan Quarter.
•
The Tideland Electric Membership Corporation supplies Hyde County with electric
service.
•
Hyde County provides essential government services to the mainland and Ocracoke
Island which include social services, health department, sheriff's department,
planning, school system, emergency services, building inspections, and general
administrative services.
•
The five -member Hyde County Board of Commissioners employs a County Manager who
manages County services and finances.
•
The County also employs a full-time professional planner. Ocracoke Island has
one designated seat on the Board of Commissioners.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 Xi i i

• There are approximately 225 miles of paved roads in Hyde County and about 60
miles of unpaved roads. There are about 90 miles of primary roads and over 188
'
miles of secondary roads.
• There are three primary roads in mainland Hyde County: US 264, NC 94. and NC
,
45. Overall traffic volumes have not changed significantly since the late
1980s.
'
• Traffic congestion along Silver Lake Road on Ocracoke Island, particularly
during the summer season. is an increasingly serious problem.
• The North Carolina Department of Transportation operates:ferry service from
'
Swan Quarter to Ocracoke. Ocracoke is totally dependent upon ferry service for
vehicular access.
,
• Hyde County, in the Hyde County Emergency Operations Plan, has planned for the
coordinated evacuation and re-entry of the County population if necessary
during emergencies.
,
• Mainland Hyde County is bordered by the Intercoastal Waterway to the north, the
Pungo River to the west, and Pamlico Sound to the south and east.
'
• In 1995, the N.C. Division of Coastal Management listed 17 marinas (public or
commercial) in Hyde County, with a total of 277 wet boat slips, 70 drystack
slips, and 53 moorings.
,
• Hyde County maintains a modern general aviation airport approximately three
miles east of Engelhard.
,
• The total number of dwelling units on the Hyde County mainland in 1990 was
1,782 including approximately 519 vacant units.
'
• 30% of the County's housing was built prior to 1950.
• The low and moderate income (LMI) population of Hyde County needs standard
affordable housing.
'
• In 1990, the median value of housing in Hyde County was $43,600. - I
• The growth of new housing on the mainland has been slow but consistent. In
1990, there were 2,301 housing units on the mainland. Since 1990, building
permits for new housing totaled 351, for a current total of 2,652 housing I
units.
• Since 1990, 125 new housing units have been built on Ocracoke, for a current
total of 729 housing units.
• Hyde County enforces the North Carolina State Building Code. '
• Hyde County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and complies
with all related regulatory requirements.
• The Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance was adopted April 21, 1986, and ,
amended November 6, 1989. Some development standards such as minimum lot size
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xiv

nII
- i anu ` seLUd(-Kb dVe CJ l.dU 1 I JIICU . 11Vwtvc1 . 1 u1.0 uji .0-
' Ordinance does not provide zoning.
• There are no significant man-made hazards located in Hyde County.
' The most significant man-made hazards in the Hyde County vicinity are the
Pamlico B Military Operations Area (MOA). and Restricted Area R-5314.
• — Hyde County lies completely within the Coastal Plain Flatwoods physiographic
region. The topography of the County is generally flat with only rare
occurrences of ridges exceeding five percent (5%).
• The County is underlain by sedimentary deposits ranging in age from Cretaceous
to Recent.
fl
• Detailed Flood Insurance Rate Maps were prepared for Hyde County in February,
1987, by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and are available for
review in the Hyde County Building Inspections Department.
• The Hyde County mainland, except for two areas of Zone C. which are areas of
minimal flooding, is all within the 100-year flood plain in either Zone A, Zone
B, or Zone V.
• All of Ocracoke Village is located within the 100-year floodplain area. In
addition, the island is subject to "storm surge" flooding.
• Over 50% of the County's land area has soil conditions which are considered
good for agricultural production.
• Over 75% of the County's area has severe wetness and flooding conditions.
• The soil conditions on Ocracoke Island are extremely poor.
• Hyde County has substantial estuarine waters and estuarine shorelines.
• Surface water in Hyde County, though nearly all brackish, is abundant.
Topography in Hyde County is very low, and there are no steep slopes in excess
of 12% within the County's jurisdiction.
• Fragile areas are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by
inappropriate, unplanned, or poorly planned development. These areas include
both Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) and other natural resource fragile
areas:
• Ocean Hazard AEC
• Coastal Wetlands
• Estuarine Waters
• Estuarine Shoreline AEC
• Public Trust Areas
• Outstanding Resource Waters
• 404 Wetlands
• Natural Resource Fragile Areas
• Historic and Archaeological Sites
WRT\9703-NOV-2
xv

• Hyde County contains a significant number of historically and archaeologically '
significant sites and areas.
• Archaeological sites and their historic significance may be a tourist ,
attraction if properly developed.
• There are no maritime forest areas located on the Hyde County mainland.
• Hyde County has substantial deposits of peat.
• There are no public parks located on the Hyde County mainland. '
• Public gamelands occupy large areas of Hyde County.
• There are numerous private hunting clubs in Hyde County. ,
• Hyde County contains extensive marine resource areas.
• Hyde County has depended heavily on its land and water resources to support its ,
local economy. Manufacturing and retail trade have not prospered in the
overall County economy. Unlike Ocracoke, the mainland has not significantly
benefited from tourist related activities.
• The County's average unemployment rate for 1996 was 10.52%. The County's rate
is normally above the State average.
L
• In 1970, the top three employment categories were: (1) farming, (2) services,
and (3) retail trade. By 1993, government employment was in the top position,
followed by service industry employment and retail trade employment.
• The primary farm production in Hyde County consists of corn (4,445,412 bushels
in 1992) soybeans (1,306,162 bushels in 1992) and wheat for grain (992,495
,
bushels in 1992).
• Shellfish continues to lead the County's commercial fishing industry in both
pounds and value. Both categories showed annual gains for almost every year
from 1980 to 1996.
• -Only two manufacturing firms in Hyde County (Engelhard Shrimp, Fish, and Oyster
,
and Swan Quarter Crab) are listed in the 1996 North Carolina Manufacturer's
Directory.
,
• The majority of the real estate and construction activity in Hyde County has
occurred on Ocracoke.
'
• Of the 2,778 persons employed in Hyde County in 1994, 538 (over 19%) were
employed by government.
• It is anticipated that future demands during the planning period will be
adequately met by the County or through State and Federal programs administered
by their respective agencies.
'
• Population on the mainland is expected to remain constant. The construction of
a major prison facility in the County by the State, and the subsequent addition
of more than 525 (527 as of November 1, 1997) inmates included as County
,
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xvl

- -- - -� population should keep the County population at about 5,500 through the
planning period. Ocracoke Island's population will remain constant or grow
' slightly.
• Tourist visits to Ocracoke will continue to have a great impact on land use
'
issues during the planning period.
• It is anticipated that the existing water supply system and planned
-- -_-
- improvements thereto will adequately meet the demands of-the_Hyde County_.____
mainland through the planning period. The water facilities of the Ocracoke
Sanitary District and planned improvements thereto will adequately meet
projected water needs.
• Hyde County will continue to operate its convenience sites during the planning
period. All waste at the sites will either be sold as recyclable goods or
'
transported to landfills in Dare, Beaufort, and Bertie counties.
• The public schools on mainland Hyde County, with the ongoing construction
previously noted, are adequate to meet expected demand during the planning
period. The Ocracoke School is not at capacity.
• Hyde County needs a county -wide parks and recreation program and should develop
ta
county -wide comprehensive recreational plan.
• There are no plans for expansion of the existing Sheriff's Department, Highway
Patrol, volunteer fire departments, rescue squad, or Health Department.
• It is anticipated that the demand for outpatient substance abuse services and
facilities for the developmentally disabled will continue during the planning
period.
'
• The provision of adequate storm drainage on Ocracoke Island should be
addressed.
• The existing road system in Hyde County and planned improvements scheduled in
the 1996 NC Department of Transportation's Transportation Improvement Program
are expected to adequately handle traffic through the planning period.
• While Ocracoke remains a small village, the transportation issues facing its
'
residents are complex. A comprehensive approach to transportation planning is
a critical need.
'
Relocation of the ferry terminal from Swan Quarter to Outfall Canal at East
Bluff Bay would shorten crossing time, decrease operating expenses, and
probably increase ferry use.
• There are no improvements or expansions proposed for the Hyde County general
aviation airport east of Englehard.
• The Hyde County mainland's greatest continuing redevelopment issue will be the
preservation and renovation of housing for its low -to -moderate income families
and individuals.
'0
Commercial development and redevelopment is a significant mainland need.
WR7\9703-NOV-2
xvii

• During the planning period, it is anticipated that more emphasis and energy ,
will be devoted toward analyzing and addressing the County's needs with respect
to the recruitment and retention of commercial and industrial development.
• Through the year 2007. employment in construction, real estate, and retail '
trade show high growth rates.
• The projected growth of seasonal population in Hyde County will occur on
Ocracoke and will have little impact on the mainland.
'
• The increase in large corporate farms and decrease in family-ownedfarms will
cause continued decline in the agricultural industry.
'
• The importance of Hyde County's fishing industry is expected to continue.
• The lack of manufacturing industry in Hyde County is expected to continue in
the short term but manufacturing employment and earnings are expected to
increase overall by the end of the planning period.
,
• Through the year 2007, employment in real estate and construction should
stabilize.
• Wholesale trade, retail trade, and services are projected to hold their strong
positions with respect to other employment sectors through 2007.
dependence State
'
• Mainland Hyde County is expected to continue its strong on and
local government employment as a source of jobs and earnings through 2007.
Resource Protection Issues
,
• Constraints to Development - Soils and Septic Tank Use: Hyde 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.
• Constraints to Development - Flood Prone Areas: Hyde County supports the
,
enforcement of local. State, and Federal regulations and programs that minimize
the threat to life and property from flooding.
,
:Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC) and Fragile Areas:
• Ocean Hazard AEC: Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the guidelines of the Coastal
Area Management Act (CAMA) 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 ocean, coastal wetlands,
estuarine waters, estuarine shorelines, and public trust areas of Hyde County.
It also supports the use of best management practices recommendations of the
United States Natural Resource Conservation Service. '
• Estuarine Shoreline AEC: Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the
right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 estuarine shorelines of '
WRT\9703-NOV-2 Xvi i i
I

Hyde COUnty. It also supports the -use of Wiest management practices
recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation Service.
• Following the guidelines set forth in Subchapter 7B-Land Use Planning
Guidelines of the North Carolina Administrative Code, (NCAC) (03/06/96). the
County considered various policy alternatives and implementation strategies
before selecting the several policies that follow.
'0
Hyde County's general vision statement----expressing.the type of community the
County desires to be within the next 10 years -- includes four main themes.
First, Hyde County desires to preserve the rural appearance of the County.
Second. Hyde County envisions protection of the natural environment through the
'
provisicn of the public water and sewer infrastructure. Third. Hyde County
desires -o create more job opportunities to entice County young people to stay
and live in the County or return to the County to work after attending college
'
or university or serving in the military. Fourth, Hyde County envisions a
greater focus on developing its tourism industry.
• Hyde County, as evidenced by the policies and implementation strategies which
follow, Is committed to the protection of its resources.
• Hyde County supports the use of erosion control structures when:
— a building or property is in immediate danger of being damaged by erosion;
P P Y
— relocation of the building would impose a severe hardship on its owner;
adjacent property will not be damaged by the erosion control structure:
it protects property from the adverse effects of sea level rise; and,
— public trust rights will not be significantly violated.
'0
Freshwater Swamps and Marshes: Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves
the right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers regulations and the applicable guidelines of the Coastal Area
Management Act and the use of local land use ordinances to regulate development
in freshwater swamps and marshes.
• Maritime Vegetation and Forests: Hyde County generally supports. State and
Federal programs and regulations geared toward protection of maritime
vegetation and forests.
'0
Pocosins and 404 Wetlands: Hyde County acknowledges that it is subject to
existing 404 wetlands rules but favors enforcement only in areas adjacent to
open water. Hyde County supports reduction of the 404 wetlands regulations by
the Federal government, and objects to the establishment of any State 404 or
freshwater wetlands regulations.
• Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW): Hyde County acknowledges that it is subject
to outstanding resource waters restrictions and generally supports -- but
reserves the right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 outstanding
resource waters of Hyde County. It also supports the use of best management
'
practices recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation Service.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xiX

Coastal 4etlands: Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object :o amendments and/or changes thereto -- the guidelines of the Coastal
'
Area Ma-agement Act and the efforts and programs of the North Carolina
Departr<-it of Environment and Natural Resources. Division of Coastal Management
and the -oastal Resources Commission to protect the coastal wetlands of Hyde
,
County. It also supports the use of best management practices recommendations
of the --ited States Soil Conservation Service. Hyde County does not support
the cor_-ruction of any new marinas in Silver Lake but does support the
'
restora:'on or reconstruction of existing marinas to the same size including
the sare number of boat slips.
Estuar'-e Waters and Public Trust Areas: Hyde County generally supports --
'
but rep_-ves the right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the
guidel----s of the Coastal Area Management Act and the efforts and programs of
the Nor—, Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
'
Coasta' Management and the Coastal Resources Commission to protect the
-estuarine waters and public trust waters of Hyde County. It also supports the
use of ---ast management practices recommendations of the United States Soil
Conser��tion Service. Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right
to obje:t to amendments and/or changes thereto -- uses of estuarine waters and
public t-ust areas in Ocracoke that provide public benefits to Ocracoke
Village. and which satisfy riparian access needs of private property owners.
Silver ---ke: Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to object
to amer:ients and/or changes thereto -- the guidelines of the Coastal Area
Manage:=nt Act and the efforts and programs of the North Carolina Department of
Enviror-ent and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management and the
Coasta- Resources Commission to protect the coastal wetlands, estuarine waters,
estuari-e shorelines, and public trust waters of Hyde County. It also supports
the use of best management practices recommendations of the United States Soil
Conservation Service. Hyde County supports the designation re-classification by
the Environmental Management Commission of Silver Lake as SA classified waters. '
• Means c` Protecting Potable Water Supply and Groundwater Quality: Hyde County
supports the protection of its potable water supply.
• Package Treatment Plants: Hyde County does not oppose the construction of
-package treatment plants which are approved and permitted by the State Division ,
of Environmental Management.
• Stormwater Runoff and Its Impact on Coastal Wetlands, Surface Waters, or Other
Fragile Areas: Hyde County supports the use of the best management practices '
recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation Service.
• Marinas: .Hyde County supports the construction of marinas so long as the ,
relevant policies of this plan and all other State and Federal regulations are
complied with; however, Hyde County opposes any new, construction or expansion
of marinas in Silver Lake. ,
• Floatirg Structures: Hyde County opposes, on Ocracoke Island, the use of
floating homes, boats, or the like for commercial or residential purposes or
for haoitation for more than 15 days or more than one 15-day period per vessel ,
per year.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 Xx

• Dry Stack Storage Facilities: Hyde County supports the construction of
' drystack storage facilities on the mainland but the construction of drystack
storage facilities on Ocracoke Island is subject to the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance.
' Docks and Piers: Hyde County supports the construction of docks and piers so
long as relevant policies of this plan and all other State and Federal
regulations are complied with. Hyde County supports, within Silver Lake, a
- maximum pier length of 150 feet and a limit of 10 slips per pier/dock.-
Temporary Moorings and Mooring Fields: Hyde County supports temporary moorings
and mooring fields if same are established in accordance.with applicable
regulations and in a manner so as not to impede navigation.
'0 Industrial Impact on Fragile Areas: Hyde County supports the recruitment and
siting of environmentally compatible industry and commercial establishments on
the mainland in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime agricultural lands
t for such development. Hyde County opposes, -with the exception of commercial
fishing and associated businesses, fish processing, and traditional cottage
industries, any industrial development in Ocracoke Village.
• Restriction of Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible To Sea Level
Rise: Hyde County generally supports the efforts of State and Federal agencies
with regulatory authority to restrict development within areas up to five feet
fabove mean high water susceptible to sea level rise and wetland loss, but
reserves the right to object to amendments and/or changes to regulations and/or
programs.
• Upland Excavation for Marina Basins: Hyde County generally supports the
efforts and programs of State and Federal agencies with jurisdiction to
' regulate the upland excavation of land for marina basins but reserves the right
to object to amendments and/or changes to regulations and/or programs.
• Bulkhead Installation: Hyde County supports the construction of bulkheads as
long as they fulfill the use standards set forth in 15A NCAC 7H.
-=-�-xDevelopment -of Sound and Estuarine System Islands: Hyde CountyAoes-jaot-QppQ&e— -_ -
development of sound and -estuarine islands as defined herein if the development
satisfies the 15A NCAC 7H use standards and applicable ORW management plans.
• Man -Made Hazards: Hyde County generally supports local. State, and Federal
efforts to minimize the adverse impact of man-made hazards within its borders.
Hyde County opposes, with the exception of bulk fuel storage tanks used for
retail and wholesale sales, public power generation, and individual heating
fuel storage tanks, the bulk storage of man-made hazardous materials as defined
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Ocracoke Village. Hyde County
opposes the disposal of any toxic wastes, as defined by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency's Listing of Hazardous Substances and Priority Pollutants =
' within its jurisdiction.
• Hyde County supports the enforcement of local, State, and Federal regulations
and programs that protect water quality. Hyde County supports wetlands
"created to aid in treating waste effluent. Hyde County supports the
U\9703-NOV-2 xxi

extension of central sewer service into all areas of the County mainland '
including the construction of lines to and through conservation areas to serve
development which meets all applicable State and Federal regulations. Hyde
County supports all efforts to secure available State and Federal funding of '
the construction and/or expansion of public and private sewer systems. Hyde
County supports the development of central sewer system(s) to serve the
Engelhard, Swan Quarter, Ponzer. Fairfield, and Sladesville communities. Hyde
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. '
Resource Production and Management Issues
• Importance of Agriculture, Forestry, Mining, Fisheries, and Recreational
'
Resources: Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
.compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland in areas that
.are already similarly developed or in public or private industrial parks to
,minimize the sacrifice of prime agricultural land for such development. Hyde
County generally supports -- but reserves the right to object to amendments
and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural resources of Hyde County. It also supports
the use of best management practices recommendations of the United States Soil
Conservation Service and similar efforts to ensure proper resource production
and management.
• Productive Agricultural Lands: Hyde County supports and encourages use of the
,
U.S. Soil Conservation Service best management practices program to protect
productive agricultural lands. Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting
of environmentally compatible industry and commercial establishments within its
'
borders in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or private
industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime agricultural land for such
development.
• -- - Commercial Forest Lands:-. Hyde .County_ supports the. reforestation of. --Clear-cut
:timber lands. Hyde County -supports the reforestation of clear-cut hardwood
forests using hardwood plantings. Hyde County supports utilization of the
,
forest best management practices of the North Carolina Division of Forest
Resources for all forestry operations.
• Existing and Potential Mineral Production Areas: Hyde County supports properly
permitted mining activities within its borders.
• Commercial and Recreational Fisheries, Shellfishing Waters, and Nursery and
,
Habitat Areas: Hyde County generally supports the use standards for estuarine
and public trust areas as specified in 15A NCAC 7H.0207. but reserves the right
to comment on the individual policies and requirements of the North Carolina
'
Division of Marine Fisheries. Hyde County opposes any expansion of Federal
wildlife reserves that pre-empt any lands within Hyde County. Hyde County
supports commercial and recreational fishing in its waters and will cooperate
with other local governments, State, and Federal agencies to control
'
pollution of these waters to improve conditions so that commercial and
recreational fishing will increase. Hyde County supports the preservation of
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xxi i

nursery and habitat areas. Hyde County generally support=s;-- but reserves the
'
right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural resources of Hyde
County. It also supports the use of best management practices recommendations
of the United States Soil Conservation Service.
• Trawling Activities in Estuarine Waters:-- Hyde -County will- -rely on the North
Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries to regulate trawling activities in
estuarine waters subject to applicable rules and regulations.
• Off -Road Vehicles: Hyde County does not oppose the responsible use of off -road
vehicles.
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development Impacts on Any
Resource: Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland in areas that
are already similarly developed or in public or private industrial parks to
minimize the sacrifice of prime agricultural lands for such development and to
mitigate the impacts of such developments on any resources. Hyde County opposes
industrial development on Ocracoke Island except for businesses related to
commercial fishing and traditional cottage industries.
Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impact on Any Resource: Hyde County generally
supports properly permitted mining activities within its borders, but reserves
the right to object to amendments and/or changes to applicable regulations
and/or programs.
Acquaculture Activities: Hyde County generally supports aquaculture activities
which do not alter significantly and negatively the natural environment of
coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas, and freshwater
wetlands, but reserves the right to object to amendments and/or changes to
applicable regulations and/or programs.
Economic and Community Development Issues
- Types and Locations of Industries.- 4r }Ffj £-ntiot- up�orts the recruitment
and siting of environmentally compatible industry and commercial establishments
on the mainland in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime agricultural lands
for such development.
Local Commitment to Providing Service to Development: Hyde County supports the
provision of governmental services to its citizens and 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 provision of solid waste disposal, law
enforcement, and educational services to -all citizens of -the County.
Types of Urban Growth Patt
of its rural atmosphere, t
location and concentration
industrial development on
developed or in public or
erns Desired: Hyde County supports the maintenance
he preservation of the natural environment, and the
of commercial and environmentally compatible
the mainland in areas that are already similarly
private industrial parks. Hyde County supports growth
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xxi i i

and development at the densities specified in the land classification '
definitions contained in this land use plan update.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas: Hyde 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.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs: Hyde County generally supports State '
and Federal programs. However, the County reserves the right to object to 404
wetlands regulations and the designation of additional outstanding resource ,
waters within the County. Hyde County opposes expansion of military restricted
airspace in eastern North Carolina.
Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment: Hyde County supports establishment ,
-of a State program for the regular maintenance and dredging for the Far Creek
Channel and the Swan Quarter Channel. Hyde County supports adding the
secure/safe anchorages which exist along its shoreline to the State Boating
-Map. Hyde County supports cooperation with the United States Soil Conservation LL
Service to map canals, ditches, and streams. Hyde County does not oppose
construction of new drainage ditches or maintenance of existing drainage
ditches.
Energy Facility Siting and Development:
a. Electric Generating Plants: Hyde County generally supports the development
of natural gas or petrochemical energy facilities or related improvements
on the mainland, but reserves the right to oppose such facilities on
Ocracoke Island or its surrounding waters.
,
b. Inshore and Outer Continental Shelf Exploration: Hyde County does not
oppose — on the mainland — drilling operations and onshore support
facilities for which an Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared
,
with a finding of no significant impact on the environment. However, on or
around Ocracoke Island, Hyde County reserves the right to oppose the
location of such facilities.
,
Tourism: Hyde County generally supports the efforts of _the North Carolina
-Department of -Transportation to improve access to the County. Hyde County —
generally supports projects that will increase public access to shoreline
,
areas. Hyde County generally supports the activities of the North Carolina
-Division of Travel and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related
industry and efforts to promote tourism -related commercial activity and efforts
'
to enhance and provide shoreline resources. Hyde County supports development
of the Engelhard and Swan Quarter Harbors as community focal points and tourist
attractions. Hyde County generally supports North Carolina Department of
Transportation projects to maintain access to Ocracoke Island. Hyde County is
not opposed to the transfer of the Ocracoke Lighthouse to the County or other
agency as designated by the County.
,
Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access: Hyde County supports the provision
of access to the shores for its residents and visitors.
,
Types, Densities. Location. and Units Per Acre of Anticipated Residential
Development and Services Necessary to Support Such Development: Hyde County
supports land use practices and regulations that:
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2

I
promote the health and general welfare of its citizens:
provide adequate light and air:
prevent the overcrowding of land:
— avoid undue population concentrations: and
' — facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water, sewer
education and public facilities, recreation, and other public
requirements.
• Existing Tax Base and Employment Opportunities: Hyde County supports efforts
to improve the quality of and access to educational opportunities for its
citizens. Hyde County supports the efforts of the Hyde County Chamber of
Commerce and Economic Development Task Force. Hyde County supports the
recruitment and siting of environmentally compatible industry and commercial
establishments on the mainland in areas that are already similarly developed or
in public or private industrial parks.
• Signs: Hyde County supports properly placed and tastefully designed signs
within its borders.
Community Appearance and Litter Control and Removal: Hyde County supports the
formation of a Community Appearance Committee to be appointed by the Board of
Commissioners. The Committee would select recipients of Community Appearance
Awards and advise the Board on methods by which the community's appearance
might -be improved including studies and recommendations as may be necessary to
address the problem of litter on beaches and along roads.
Recreational Facilities: Hyde County supports, subject to available funds, a
comprehensive recreational program to provide a broad range of recreational
facilities for its citizens. Hyde County supports utilization of State
shoreline access funds to provide improved pedestrian access to Engelhard
Harbor. Hyde County supports an application for State shoreline access funds
for an access at Swan Quarter Bay. Hyde County supports improved pedestrian and
vehicular access to Lake Mattamuskeet and its shoreline. Hyde County supports
private recreational development along the Lake Mattamuskeet shoreline and the
Intracoastal Waterway. Hyde County supports aesthetic, building, and access
improvements to the Swan Quarter dock area. Hyde County supports the
construction of boardwalks along the Pungo River in the Ponzer area. Hyde
County supports a sewage pump -out facility_ -for -boats at_._the _National Park
Service marina. Hyde County opposes the placement of Adopt -A -Highway signs in
the Cape Hatteras National Seashore or anywhere along NC 12.
Public Safety: Hyde County generally supports efforts, programs, laws, and
regulations that create a safe, crime -free environment for its citizens and
visitors.
Education: Hyde County supports the provision of elementary and secondary
education to all Hyde County citizens. It supports the establishment of a
biology field station and environmental education center at the Lake
Mattamuskeet Lodge by East Carolina University. -
Electrical Facilities: Hyde County supports programs and efforts to provide an
affordable, adequate, and dependable supply of electric power with reserve
capacity and looping designs.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 xxv

17
LJ
Cable Television Facilities: Hyde County supperts programs and efforts to '
provide affordable, adequate, and dependable c-zole television services.
Public Water Facilities: Hyde County supports -he extension of central water ,
service into all areas of the County including -he construction of lines to and
through conservation areas to serve developmer_ which meets all applicable
State and Federal regulations. Hyde County sucoorts all efforts to secure
available State and Federal funding for the cc-struction and/or expansion of '
public and private water systems.
Public Sewer Facilities: Hyde County supports -he discharge of effluent into '
404 (freshwater) wetlands areas on the mainlan: but does. -not support the
installation of package treatment plants and s=otic tanks that discharge waste
in areas classified as coastal wetlands or 404 ;retlands in Ocracoke Village.
Hyde County supports wetlands "created" to aic �n treating waste effluent. ,
Hyde County supports the extension of central ewer service..into all areas of
the County mainland including the construction of lines to and through
conservation areas to serve development which -eets all applicable State and
_:Federal regulations. Hyde County supports all =-forts to secure available State
and Federal funding of the construction and/or expansion of public and private
sewer systems. Hyde County supports the develcoment of central sewer system(s)
to serve the Engelhard, Swan Quarter, Ponzer, =airfield, and Sladesville
communities.
Transportation System:
'
• Beautification: Hyde County supports visual improvement of the entrances
to Swan Quarter. Three improvement areas exist: 1) the intersection of
US 264 and NC 45: 2) the intersection of US 264 and SR 1129; and 3) the
intersection of NC 45 and SR 1129. Hyde CcInty supports participation in
the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Adopt -A -Highway
program. Hyde County reserves the right to oppose controls which are deemed
to limit economic development.
'
• Ferry System: Hyde County supports the priEoaration and implementation of a
landscaping plan by the North Carolina Department of Transportation for the
ferry terminal facilities at Swan Quarter. Hyde County supports
establishment of a farmer's market on ferry terminal property. Hyde County
supports the establishment of a high-speed day ferry or pedestrian ferry
between Ocracoke Island and the mainland. Hyde County supports relocation
of the mainland ferry terminal from Swan Ciarter to the Outfall Canal.
'
• Vehicular Movement. Hyde County supports .he development of a
transportation plan for Ocracoke Island wP'.ch would, at a minimum, address:
— provision of off-street parking:
'
— vehicular/pedestrian traffic conflicts;
— high-speed pedestrian ferry access to the mainland;
— replacement of the Oregon Inlet br'dge;
— possible relocation of the mainlar: terminal of the Swan
Quarter/Ocracoke ferry;
— preservation of Ocracoke's resider:ial streets;
— shuttle bus operation to beach arc-s and provision for parking and
,
recreation park outside Ocracoke ` llage in the National Seashore
Park Area;
— street improvements;
,
— protection of and improvements to ',C 12: and,
— continued operation and improvemer_ of the Ocracoke Island Airport.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 XXvi

7.
lJ
= Hyde County supports the development of an Outer Banks Rail Loop to =-_ --
provide rail service to and through the County.
• Uses Of and Activities In and On Ocean, Rivers, and Sound: Hyde County
supports the exercise of legislatively -authorized local police power to
'
separate conflicting water uses and activities in and on the ocean and sound
waters along its borders.
'
Point Source Wastewater Discharge: Hyde County generally supports -- but
reserves the right to object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural
environment of Hyde County. It also supports the use of best management
practices recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation Service and
applicable regulations of other State and Federal agencies with regulatory
authority, as well as on existing local development regulations to mitigate
threats to the natural environment.
• Cultural or Historical Resources: Hyde County supports the preservation of
important cultural resources and supports local, State, and Federal efforts to
protect historic properties within its borders and to perpetuate its cultural
heritage.
• Facilities for Physically Challenged Persons: Hyde County generally supports
efforts, initiatives, and programs -- both public and private -- that provide
new buildings and facilities, or serve to make existing buildings and
facilities, accessible and available to physically challenged persons.
• Hospital and Access to Medical Care: Hyde County supports efforts and
initiatives to provide quality, affordable health care to its citizens and also
supports the construction of a hospital or primary care facility in or near the
County.
• Picnic Areas: Hyde County supports, subject to available funds, a
comprehensive recreational program to provide a broad range of recreational
facilities -- including picnic facilities -- for its citizens.
• Public Water Accesses: Hyde County supports the State's shoreline access
policies as set forth in Chapter 15A of the North Carolina Administrative Code.
• Coastal Airspace: Hyde County opposes the expansion of any restricted airspace
within its boundaries or jurisdiction. Hyde County supports aircraft
operations standards which were adopted by the Coastal Resources Commission on
December 1, 1989, and became effective March 1, 1990 concerning:
a. Minimum Altitudes
b. Noise Pollution
c. Use of Coastal Airspace
d. Water- and Wetlands -Based Target Areas for Military Training Activities
• Private Sewage Utilities: Hyde County does not oppose, on the mainland, the
construction and operation of private sewage utilities.
Mosquito Control: Hyde County supports State and Federal efforts and
initiatives to control mosquitoes.
WRT\9703-NOV-2

• Solid Waste and Recycling: Hyde County supports efforts and measures to
efficiently and economically collect and dispose of solid waste and supports
recycling, and the establishment and maintenance of recycling centers.
,
• Dredging: Hyde County supports regulated dredging activities by governmental
entities but does not support the expenditure of County funds for such
activities.
'
• Facilities for Senior Citizens: Hyde County supports efforts and initiatives
to provide or construct safe and accessible facilities for senior citizens.
'
• Public Participation: Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily
P P
through the Board of Commissioners, with advertised and adequately publicized
public meetings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens
'
informed.
Storm Hazard Mitigation. Evacuation. and Post -Disaster Reconstruction I
• Storm Hazard Mitigation: Hyde County supports enforcement of the N.C. State
Building Code, particularly requirements of construction standards to meet
wind -resistive factors, i.e., "design wind velocity." The County will also
support provisions in the State Building Code requiring tiedowns for mobile
homes, which help resist wind damage. Hyde County supports the hazard
mitigation elements of the National Flood Insurance Program. Hyde County ,
generally supports -- but reserves the right to object to amendments and/or
changes thereto -- the CAMA development permit process for. -estuarine shorelire
areas. However, all shoreline stabilization and drainage projects must be ,
consistent with the policies contained in this plan.
• Reconstruction:
a. Post -Disaster Recovery Team
,
b. Immediate Cleanup and Debris Removal
c. Long Term Recovery/Restoration
(1) Damage Assessments
(2) Reconstruction Development Standards
(3) Development Moratoria
(4) Repair/Reconstruction Schedule
(5) Agency Responsible for Implementation
(6) Repair and Replacement of Public Utilities
(7) Permitting
• Five land classifications apply on the Hyde County mainland.
• Developed Class
• Community Class
• Rural Class
'
• Rural With Services Class
• Conservation Class
• Coastal Wetlands
,
• Estuarine Shoreline
• Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Estuarine Shorelines
• Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas
'
• Outstanding Resource Waters ((ORW)
WRT\9703-NOV-2 XXvi i i
I
L

• As an overall objective, Hyde County desires that the mainland land
classification system be broadly interpreted to allow maximum freedom `=~
economic/industrial development.
• The community land classification applies on Ocracoke Island.
WRT\9703-NOV-2

I. THE PLANNING PROCESS

I. THE PLANNING PROCESS
Use Planning
A. North Carolina Land
The Coastal Area Management Act of 1974 (CAMA) establishes a coo:—ative
'
program of coastal area management between local governments and --.e State.
Land use planning lies at the center of local government's invol,.=-ent.
Subchapter 7B - Land Use Planning Guidelines of the North Carolir=
' -
Administrative Code (NCAC), (03/06/96), was promulgated -for the --..,-pose of
forth
assisting localities with the preparation of land use plans and s=-s
standards for their review. These guidelines allow local offici�'s to make
clear public policy choices and serve as a framework and guide fc-- use in
'
future decisionmaking. Further. they set standards which shall == used by the
North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) in reviewing ar_ approving
land use plans. The policies in land use plans must consider anc oe consistent
'
with established State and Federal policies. If issues are care-.."ly and
"explicitly addressed", other levels of government will follow lc_.Ml policies
in actions affecting those issues.
'
becoma- the
This land use plan update, when certified by the CRC, will cart of
North Carolina Coastal Management Plan for the protection, prese,.-ztion,
orderly development, and management of the coastal area of North =-rolina.
B. The Hyde County Experience
Hyde County was formed in 1705 as Wickham Precinct of Bath County The name
was changed to Hyde about 1712. Located in the east section of --e State, it
is bounded by Pamlico Sound, by Beaufort, Washington, Tyrrell, ar: Dare
Counties, and (on the Outer Banks) by the Atlantic Ocean and Dare .nd Carteret
'
Counties. The County is named for Governor Edward Hyde who died -1 1712.
Hyde County contains 1,378.1 square miles of total area, of whi& 612.83 square
miles are land. The estimated 1997 population of Hyde County is :.370 persons.
The County seat is Swan Quarter, North Carolina.
Hyde County developed and adopted a land use plan in 1986 as regL.-^ed by the
CAMA Land Use Plan Act. The plan was updated in 1992. The Coun,. employs a
- -
professional planner and its Board of Commissioners serves as its ?lanning
Board. The Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board, a formal body compr-sed of
r
citizens and professionals from several government agencies, meets regularly to
discuss issues regarding land use and development -on Ocracoke Is-,snd and to
make recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I - 1

I
1
t II. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

I
II
U
0
GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
The Board of Commissioners have the following goals and objectives with respect to
the 1997 Land Use Plan Update (997 Update).
1. Produce a user-frie,-Jly, policy oriented document.
2. Establish action deadlines where applicable.
3. Promote substantial and meaningful interaction in the planning process
by governmental age -ties with programs, regulations, and rules that
impact the County t--ough interagency review of the 1997 Update.
4. Encourage open revi ;i and debate of issues, policies, and
implementation stra-egies at Board meetings during plan update.
5. Incorporate Hyde Co„nty mainland and Ocracoke Island supporting data
and policy statemen-,s into one comprehensive document.
6. Involve the Board c- Commissioners throughout the planning process.
7. Involve the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board throughout the planning
process.
8. Develop strategies -o promote appropriate economic and industrial
development in the lounty.
9. Develop implementation strategies to better position the County to
receive technical assistance and funding so that policies will be
implemented efficiently and effectively.
10. Utilize relevant published data during plan development so that future
update efforts can be simplified and provide for consistency of review.
11. Rely on State and Federal agencies and programs with regulatory
authority to enforce applicable laws, rules, and regulations.
In addition, the Board recognizes and supports State objectives in the update
process. These include efforts:
• to further define and refine local policies and issues;
• to further examine and refine the land classification system and map;
• to assess the effec-iveness of the existing land use plan and its
implementation;
• to further explore implementation procedures; and
• to promote better understanding of land use planning.
WRT\9703-NOV-2

I
11
I III. ABOUT HYDE COUNTY

11
1
ABOUT HYDE COUNTY
A. Information Base
Introduction
The outline of this land use pla update for Hyde County follows the
general planning analysis sugges ed by the CAMA planning guidelines that
are outlined in Subchapter 7B, L.•,d Use Planning Guidelines, of the North
Carolina Administrative Code (NC-:) (amended March 5, 1996).
Analysis of Hyde County, North Cz-olina 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan (1992 Plan)
The 1992 Plan was divided into s.:arate parts dealing with the Hyde County
mainland and Ocracoke Island. Each part contained the five sections
discussed below. Section I, an ;,alysis of existing conditions, first
identifies demographic, housing, --nd economic trends that have directed
land development patterns with tie County over the past twenty years. The
results of continuing developmen_ are then summarized in a narrative
description of existing land use. The description of existing land use is
followed by an analysis of signi--cant land use incompatibility issues.
The discussion of existing condi--ons also includes an outline of physical
constraints to development, cons-:ting of a summary of fragile land and
water areas, a summary of areas ,.-th resource potential, and a summary of
existing community facilities. —^e summaries of existing constraints to
development include discussions c- land development/environmental conflicts
and community facility needs and 'ssues that are to be addressed by the
policy statements. The discussion of existing conditions concludes with an
outline of existing local plans ;,id policies that regulate development.
Section II summarized the expected impact of continued land development
during the planning period withir the framework of the physical constraints
discussed in Section I. Projectec permanent and seasonal population growth,
housing development trends, and Economic growth are summarized and analyzed
within the context of previously -defined land use issues. Community
facilities are discussed in terms of what services will be required to meet
anticipated public demand. whether or not existing community facilities are
adequate or deficient in light o- projected demand, and how construction of
new community facilities will be impacted by and impact fragile areas and
existing patterns of land use. Section II concludes with a discussion of
redevelopment issues.
Section III discussed the relaticnship of policies and land classifications
while Section IV included policy statements. The land classification
system was discussed in Section V.
The identification of developmer: trends and physical constraints to
development was accomplished thrcugh the use of several major reference
sources: Office of State Budget and Management, State Data Center: Hyde
County Board of Commissioners; a,d Division of Coastal Management.
' a
WRT\9703-NOV-2
Policies Selected and Impler_ntation Analysis As of 1997
In the 1992 Plan, policies a,d numerous statements (which are in effect
implementation strategies) were included for the Hyde County mainland

M
c
WRT\9703-NOV-2
and Ocracoke Island. In general, the County has relied on State and
Federal agencies to implement and enforce many of the policies
'
contained in the 1992 Plan. The County's Building Official has also
been relied upon to enforce the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance.
Dramatic or drastic changes - land use related or otherwise - have not
'
occurred in Hyde County since 1992.
Comparison of Current Policies To Policies of Adjoining Counties
'
At the present time, most of the counties adjacent to Hyde County are
in the process of updating their respective land: use plans. Beaufort
'
County adopted its latest land use plan in 1993. Carteret County
adopted its land use plan in 1991. Dare County's most recent plan is
dated 1994. Pamlico County's plan was updated in 1992. Tyrrell and
Washington counties have recently completed updates. Hyde County's
'
adopted policy statements and land classifications are generally
consistent with those of its neighbors. Similarly, the County's
reliance on the State for much of its land use regulation enforcement
'
is consistent with its neighbors. Unlike some of its neighbors,
however, Hyde County has not adopl.ed subdivision and zoning
regulations.
,
Improvements Anticipated In County of Hyde. North Carolina CAMA Land
Use Plan Update 1997
'
The County has made strides in directing its growth and maintaining the
quality of service delivery systems. To promote and guide continued
orderly development and improve land use planning, the Board of
'
Commissioners have established goals and objectives (included in
Chapter II GOALS AND OBJECTIVES) relative to the 1997 Update. These
include:
'
1) Produce a use -friendly, policy -oriented document.
2) Establish action deadlines where applicable.
'
3) Promote substantial and meaningful interaction in the planning
process by government agencies with programs, regulations, and
,
rules that impact the County through interagency review of this
Update.
4) Encourage open review and debate of issues, policies, and
,
implementation strategies at Board meetings during plan update.
5) Incorporate Hyde County mainland and Ocracoke Island supporting
,
data and policy statements into one, comprehensive document.
6) Involve the Board of Commissioners throughout the planning process.
'
7) Involve the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board throughout the
planning process.
,
8) Development strategies to promote appropriate economic and
industrial development in the County.
III-2

9) Develop implementation strategies to better position the County
' to receive technical assistance and funding so that policies
will be implemented efficiently and effectively.
' 10) Utilize relevant published data during plan development so that
future update efforts can be simplified and provide for
consistency of review.
' In addition, the Board recognizes and supports State objectives in the
update process. These include efforts:
' 1) to further define and refine local policies and issues;
2) to further examine and refine the land classification system
' and map;
3) to assess the effectiveness of the existing land use plan and
its implementation:
' 4) to further explore implementation procedures: and
' 5) to promote better understanding of land use planning.
B. Hyde County Today
' 1. Introduction
The following information is provided to establish a statistical foundation
for the formation of land use policies and implementation strategies.
Information on population, housing, economics, and land use was obtained
from a variety of reliable public and private sources. Most of the data
' related to demographics came from the U.S. 1990 Census of Population and
Housing. Additional data was acquired from State. Federal, and local
sources. Windshield surveys and analysis of building permit data were
conducted to verify existing land use patterns and classifications.
' Interviews and work sessions were conducted to verify existing land use
patterns and classifications. Interviews and work sessions were conducted
with various County staff as well as elected and appointed officials.
Information for the period preceding the 1992 Plan was obtained from that
document and is presented herein for comparison with more recent
statistics. In addition, certain projections and estimates of future
conditions were taken from the 1992 Plan.
Taken from data compiled by the State Data Center, North Carolina Office of
State Planning, EXHIBIT 1 provides a County profile of Hyde County.
2. People
Hyde County experienced a population decline of -6.1% from 5,765 persons in
1960 to 5,411 persons in 1990. Only Tyrrell County with 3,856 persons in
1990 was smaller than Hyde County in that regard. Hyde County has a well -
dispersed, rural populace -- in fact, there are no municipalities in the
' County. Hyde County has the lowest population density in North Carolina.
The County's lack of an established arterial road system, utilities
infrastructure deficiencies, and a prevalence of unsuitable hydric soils
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I 1-3
�i
L�

EXHIBIT 1
,
County Profile Hyde Counly wee tinned In 1705 as Wkkham Pndncl of Bath
County.
TM nanr was changed to Hyde about 1712. Located in
'
the east
se=,m of Me
state, It Is bounded by Pamiko Soured, by
Hyde County Beaufort V. s shi gton.
'Bank-
Tyrrell. and Dare counties, and (on the
Outer
by the Atlantic
Doe on and Dare and Carteret
counties.
County seal: SWAN QUARTER Total area (sq. mi.): 1.378.1
M.d for Governor
Edward Hyde who died In 1712.
,
Elevation (h): 10 Land ores (sq. mi.): 612.2
Ranks are numbered from high to low. The graphic for each measure represents a uniform distance between the lowest and the
highest county values. The positiondNeletterCforcounty(orletterSforstate)IndlcatestherelatfwstandGpbetmeanthe
corny (state) and the highest and lowest county values. The relative standing between the state and county Is also Indicated.
The letter B ktdlcates that the county and aisle values fall near the same place relative to the highest and lowest county values.
Current Highest
Lowest ,
s-s
Measure County Rank Rank County
Ran
------__-- ---
County
State eoth
e- Both
'
Population and Housing
Low High
Population, 1992 5,379 99 98 536,403
3,887
6,836,977 r
Persons per square mile, 1992 8.8 100 100 1,010.6
8.8
140.5. CS__1
,
Percent elderly, 1992 16.3 22 6 24.5
4.7
12.3 1
Chiidrenlelderly persons per 100 persons of working age, 1992 62.3 17 3 71.4
35.1
51.6 ) se 1
Percent of families that are single -parent, 1990 28.3 36 na 40.5
16.4
26.6 J se
Average housing value, 1990 $59.277 62 85 $132,024
$41,546
=579,016
'
Health Status
Birth rate, 1992 12.6 73 20 25.4
8.8
15.2 1 e s
Percent of births that are low -weight, 1992 8.8 38 14 15.5
3.2
8.4 1-8 L
Teenage pregnancy rate, average 1990. 1991, 1992 9.3 67 48 18.4
3.5
10.2 1�s-1
Non -elderly death rate, average 1989,1990,1991 4.0 16 26 4.5
1.7
3.1 1-a-C�
Medicaid eligibles per 1,000 population, 1992 235.4 12 24 273.9
62.3
128.4 1 sC I
Physicians per 10,000 population, 1991 3.7 73 75 35.8
1.6
6.8
Hospital discharges per 1,000 population, 1991 129.0 27 39 172.7
39.0
110.1 1---1
Percent of population aged 75 and over, 1992 7.4 18 14 11.5
1.6
5.0 1 s c
Persons served In area mental health programs per 46.3 11 96 64A
17.4
30.0
1,000 population, 1992
Food stamp reciplency rate.1992 226.1 2 2 243.9
32.9
85.2 1=-t1
'
Farm income as percent of total personal Income, 1991 22.3 4 11 24.0
0.0
1.9 1S-Cl
Harvested cropland as percent of all land, 1992 23.6 20 37 54.3
0.2
13.5 1 a r I
Gross retail sales per capita,1993 $5,443 73 78 $20,696
S 1,834
$10.317 1 C-s-1
Commuting ratio, 1990 0.9 51 49 1.4
0.4
0.9 1-d-1
'
Environment /fnfrastructura
Water use (gal. per day) per capita, 1990 112.7 94 na 38,675.0
75.6
1.348.0
Point source emissions (tons) per square mile, 1991 0.0 97 ne 507.7
0.0
18.5 a--1
Percent of homes that heat with (1990): electricity 24.3 91 97 72.6
8.0
42.0 1 r 2
'
- - fuel oil, kerosene, etc. 29.9 39 24 62.4
7.3
22.6 1or-1_._._
utility gas 0.3 85 59 42.2
0.0
18.6 C -a-1
wood 14.7 37 37 35.7
1.5
7.8 1 e s
coal, tank gas, solar, other, and no fuel 30.8 2 3 35.6
2.2
9.0 1s-Cl
Registered vehicles pef1,000 population. 1992 745.5 61 70 661.1
517.7
745.0
Miles of paved road per square mtlA,1992 36.4 99 99 246.6
36.1
130.7 C--2
Municipalities and Population, 1992 Ten Largest Private Employers,1993
Nearest Commercial CarderAlrport
and Distance from County Seat
'
Name Industry Type
Craven County Regional 46 miles
BARDO CORPORATION MANUFACTURING
Nearest Sea Port and Distance from
CAPTAIN BENS RESTAURANT INC RETAIL TRADE
County Seat
CROSS CREEK HEALTHCARE SERVICES
Morehead Coy, 52 miles
'
ENGELHARD SHRIMP MANUFACTURING
FAIRFIELD SALES CORP WHOLESALE TRADE
GOODTIMES INC MANUFACTURING
Highway Mileage, 1992
MATTAMUSKEET FRESH PRODUCE INC WHOLESALF-TRADE
Paved: 222.7mlles
MATTAMUSKEET SEAFOOD INC MANUFACTURING
Unpaved 66.6 mtles
,
THE EAST CAROLINA BANK FIN., INS. 3 REAL ESTATE
TUNNELL FARMS INC AGRICULTURE, FOR. a FISH.
Pun nary: 119.5miles
Dup9cale listings occur for separate locations of establIshmenls It each meals the
Secondary: 186.E mlles
size criteria.
Told 278.3m8es
'
SOURCE: Compiled by State Data Center, North Carolina Office of State PlannkV. ,
III-4

make it less attractive to industry and large-scale residential developers
' than many other coastal counties. The County's recent and planned projects
with respect to the provision of water and sewer will correct many of the
utility infrastructure deficiencies.
11
Hyde County also had a population decline of 462 persons from 1980 to 1990.
This was the highest rate of population decline among the State's twenty
coastal count es. The 1990 U.S. Census count placed Hyde's population at
5,411 persons, down from 5,873 in 1980. At least part of this population
decline results from a lack of employment opportunities in the County.
Four other counties -- Bertie, Hertford. Tyrrell. and Washington -- in the
Albemarle/Pamlico Sounds region also experienced net.population declines
during the 1960s. These counties do not have accessible estuarine and
oceanfront resources, nor are they located close enough to the Hampton
Roads area in Virginia to experience spillover benefits. The North
Carolina Office of State Planning, State Data Center estimates the 1995
population of Hyde County was 5,211.
The population of Ocracoke Island is concentrated in Ocracoke Village
(Village), which is located on the soundside of the widest and southernmost
part of the island. The island comprises 5,575 acres in all, and except
for the Village (775 acres), is part of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Recreation Area. The Village has been steadily increasing its population
since the 1950s when the island became reasonably accessible via the State -
supported ferry system.
Ocracoke Island's population increased 31.8% from 541 persons in 1970 to
713 persons in 1990. Most of this growth occurred during the 1970s when
the population grew 21.6% from 541 to 658 persons. The 1990 population
was 8.4% higher than the 1980 Census count. This trend compares to a
population decline on the Hyde County mainland. The Ocracoke Sanitary
District estimates the current year-round population on the island to be
790. These trends are expected to continue at least in the first portion
of the ten-year planning period (1997-2007). The mainland's population
should stabilize or increase with the locating of the NC Correctional
Facility and the island will continue to grow.
Y From 1970-90, the percentage of individuals in Hyde County between the ages
of 19 and 44 increased while the percentage of individuals less than 19
years of age and between the ages of 45 and 64 experienced declines. The
percentage of individuals over the age of 65 increased from 1970 to 1990.
The median age for the County increased from 29.7 years of age in 1970 to
35.8 years in 1990. The 1990 median age for Ocracoke Island was 39.7
years. Factors contributing to these trends include the natural aging of
the population. a delaying of childbearing by young adults, and to some
extent an increasing attractiveness of the area as a retirement center for
persons aged 65 years and older.
TABLE 1, which follows, provides population estimates by County total and
by age group from 1990 to 1995.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-5

TABLE 1
POPULATION ESTIMATES, TOTALS AND BY AGE GROUP.
1990 - 1995
HYDE COUNTY. NORTH CAROLINA
Population
Estimates
since Census
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
Hyde County
5,411
5,442
5,429
5,400
5,286
5.211
Age
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
0 - 4
356
376
387
391
377
363
5 - 9
365
371
369
361
336
335
10-14 -
397
375
357
358
364
352
15-19
411
409
396
369
338
321
20-24
322
333
350
369
355
347
25-29
370
342
322
301
297
297
30-34
425
420
406
394
371
344
35-39
428
444
452
443
418
406
40-44
330
367
377
393
418
425
45-49
293
305
314
322
315
328
50-54
272
256
257
268
290
299
55-59
286
291
292
281
267
267
60-64
259
258
260
261
272
277
65-69
272
259
248
251
235
225
70-74
218
225
235
232
235
236
75-79
232
206
192
182
166
159
80-84
99
125
131
141
152
151
85
76
80
84
83
80
79
SOURCE: North Carolina, Office of State Planning, State Data Center.
The white population in Hyde County was 3,596 persons in 1990. The non-
white population was 1,815 persons in 1990. The white population of
Ocracoke Village in 1990 was 703 persons and the non -white population was
10 persons.
p
L
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I - 6

In 1990, there were 2,650 males and 2,761 females in Hyde County. Of these
' totals, approximately 377 were males living on Ocracoke Island and
approximately 336 were females.
The seasonal population's impact on the fragile areas, facilities. and
' programs of oceanfront localities is more significant than that of the
permanent population. Additionally, the recreational population has a pro-
found effect on the economy of the coastal region, accounting for a large
' portion of the non basic (service and retail) economy and indirectly
impacting more basic industries such as fishing, agriculture,
import/export, and manufacturing.
Citing a 1988 East Carolina University study, the 1992 Plan concluded that
there were 1,361 total seasonal housing units (702 private housing units,
208 hotel/motel rooms, 309 campsites, and 142 boat slips) in Hyde County,
' of which as many as 882 (442 housing units, 240 motel units, 200 campground
spaces, and 20 marina units) were on Ocracoke Island. From this, the 1992
Plan calculated a peak seasonal population for Hyde County at 8,046 persons
' housed in seasonal housing units (5,491 persons), motels/hotels (1,237
persons), campgrounds (927). and marinas (391 persons). The peak seasonal
population of 8.046 combined with the 1990 permanent population (5,411)
' results in 13,457 as the total peak population estimated for Hyde County in
1990. The seasonal population analysis in the 1992 Plan is generally
considered to approximately reflect the 1997 seasonal population estimates
' for the County.
The seasonal population fluctuations in Hyde County, particularly on
Ocracoke Island, create problems for local planners and administrators.
' The island's influence with respect to the County's seasonal population
totals is tremendous. With respect to Ocracoke Island, the 1992 Plan sets
the peak seasonal population at 3,404 persons housed in seasonal housing
units (1,899 persons), motels/hotels (840 persons), campground spaces (600
persons), and marinas (65 persons). The total peak population was set at
4.117 persons. The -Ocracoke Sanitary District estimates the average
seasonal population to be at least 3,000 and as many as 7,000. Public
services planning must be based on estimates of seasonal growth patterns.
3. Land Use -
With a few exceptions, land use patterns in Hyde County have remained
unchanged throughout the 1990s. Detailed land use acreage data is difficult
to obtain for Hyde County. Approximately 110,000 acres is farmland with
' over 235,000 acres classified as timberland. Urban or built-up areas
account for over 3,000 acres in the County while land used for roadways,
public facilities, drainage ditches, and banks account for nearly 40.000
acres. Pastureland and small water areas account for about 5,000 acres.
Existing land use patterns for the mainland are shown on MAP 1.
' The State owns 17.598 acres in Hyde county-. The majority of State-owned
property is located in the Gull Rock Wildlife Management Area. In
addition, the Federal government owns over 110,000 acres in Hyde County,
most associated with national wildlife refuges. Some 117,923 acres are in
' refuges. The Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) encompasses
16.672 acres. The Mattamuskeet NWR is 50,177 acres while the Pocosin NWR
is 34.663 acres. The NWR around Swan Quarter is 16,411 acres.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -7

A major increase in Federally -owned land occurred in the last several
years. The U.S. Department of the Interior. U.S. Fish and Wildlife
,
Service, acquired 27,890 acres of land to establish a new national wildlife
refuge, the Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge has a total
acreage of 93,155 acres located in Hyde. Tyrrell, and Washington Counties.
'
While this results in a decrease in the forestland, the wildlife refuge
does in fact remain in forestland. The expansion of Federally -owned land
= has serious financial implications for Hyde County because it -akes - —
significant amounts of land off the County's tax roles.
'
According to the 1992 Hyde County Agricultural Profile, the land in acres
in farms was 93,728 acres. In the past several years., large areas of
'
forestland in the following areas have been cleared for cropland: west of
the Hyde County Airport, between the Lake Mattamuskeet boundary and the
Intracoastal Waterway, east of the Outfall Canal and south of US 264 in the
New Holland area, west and northwest of Lake Mattamuskeet along the
,
boundary canal, and north of US 264 in the Swan Quarter area. Almost all
of the converted land is utilized for large corporate farm operations.
Current estimates place the total farm land acreage at 110,000 acres.
'
The following summarizes other existing land use patterns in Hyde County:
'
• The major built-up areas continue to be located in the communities of
Engelhard, Fairfield, and Swan Quarter.
• Residential development continues to be dispersed along properties
,
fronting on primary and secondary roads.
• Concentrations of residential development exist in the communities of
'
Nebraska. Middletown, Scranton. Sladesville and Slocum.
• Almost all of Hyde County's forestland may be considered wetlands,
'
subject to 404 wetlands regulation.
• No significant industrial land use exists within the County.
'
- ------------•------Commercial land use isprimarilylimited to the communities of
Engelhard, Fairfield, and Swan Quarter.
'
• Hyde County is not experiencing land use problems related to growth
and/or development. In fact, a major problem confronting the County is
the stimulation of growth. The following summarizes the major land use
issues confronting mainland Hyde County:
'
• Hyde County's major communities are not served by a central sewer
system(s), although a system serving Engelhard and vicinity should come
on-line during the planning period.
• The County needs to stimulate development of an industrial and economic
base.
• Areas of 404 wetlands and the controlling legislation present obstacles
to development and agricultural land use.
• Increases in Federal landholds reduce the County's tax roles.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -8

'•
There is a need to stimu'ate and/or improve the provision of private
sector goods and services.
The clearance of large t­3ces of forestland for cropland will increase
'•
the surface runoff of freshwater into many of the estuaries which
border much of the mainland.
'0
Community support facilities and services to stimulate tourism are
deficient.
The County's housing stez< continues to deteriorate as the age of the
'•
total housing inventory -ncreases.
• Soil limitations for sep-ic tank usage present obstacles to
development.
• The shoreline areas of tre Engelhard and Swan Quarter harbors need to
be renovated and all dilapidated structures removed.
• The Alligator River and _S,qan Quarter/Juniper Bay area Outstanding
Resource Waters (ORW) de-signations and resulting controls limit
'
development.
• Low elevation and sea level rise impact land use considerations.
There are no significant lar,. use problems in Hyde County resulting from
unplanned development. However, the unanticipated establishment of the
Pocosin Lakes National Wildl=fe Refuge resulted in an unanticipated loss of
local property tax revenue. Further acquisitions of any land by the State
or Federal government would nave serious adverse impact on Hyde County's
financial resources. While not the result of unplanned development, the
lack of central sewer service continues to be a serious obstacle to
development. Innovative app,oaches to sewage treatment will be needed to
solve the County's sewage treatment problems.
Except for increases in cropland and Federally -owned property, no major
—
- changes in 'land use have occurred in the 1990s. Some -County leaders -
believe it would be extremely helpful to relocate the Swan Quarter/Ocracoke
ferry terminal to the Outfall Canal area.
' As a central sewer system is developed on the mainland, some changes in
existing land use would occu The density of development in areas
provided by central sewer service could be expected to increase. However,
central sewer service alone will not stimulate major development. Other
assets, such as a trained labor base and an overall improvement in
community facilities, will to necessary. Investments in public facilities
and services will have to be paralleled by the development of an effective
private sector economic development strategy.
The 1992 Plan acknowledged tnat a major consideration which would have a
significant long range impac, on land use is the effect of global warming
' and sea level rise on Hyde County.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 111 -9

Ocracoke Island is approximately 18 miles long and varies from less than
100 yards to over two miles in width. The entire island includes
approximately 5,535 acres. Ccracoke Village occupies only 775 acres, whicq
is 14.0 percent of the total. The remaining 4.760 acres are in the Cape
Hatteras National Seashore and Recreation area and are under Federal
government control. Therefore, the policies contained in this plan apply
only to the 775 acres which ire not under Federal government control and
are referred to as the Village by residents and in this plan. However, tte
policies can apply to Federa; actions to expand the National Seashore.
Throughout the 1990s, Ocraco<e Island's pattern of land use and developmer=
has remained unchanged. However, the Village is feeling the effects of
increasing pressure from development. This is evidenced by the increasing
number of three-story and fo: -story structures that have been constructec.
The Village's pattern of mixed residential and commercial land uses has
continued. Mixed land uses have occurred because of many factors,
including a lack of zoning ar:d subdivision ordinances.
Existing land uses on Ocracoke Island are generally shown on MAP 2. The
number of vacant lots availa�le for development continues to decrease.
Approximately 350 vacant lots or parcels remained in 1991 which did not
appear to be located in wetland areas. Between 1986 and 1990, 342 buildirg
permits were issued on Ocracc<e Island. From 1991 to the present, 135
building permits have been issued. If trends continue, all parcels could
be developed in the next 10 :o 15 years. The largest concentrations of
vacant land exist north of SR 1341 and SR 1324 and along Pamlico Sound on
the northwest shore between Windmill Point and Springers Point. Devel-
opment of these areas for uses other than single-family residential
development could detract from Ocracoke's coastal fishing village character
and seriously increase existing traffic congestion problems.
Ocracoke Island's residents have been sensitive to development pressure
since the 1970s. In the early 1980s efforts began to restrict development.
A zoning referendum was put before the Village residents in 1981 and
failed. Although there were many reasons offered for the defeat of the
referendum, the basic feeling was that the referendum was either too
complicated and not explained-clearly5_.orthat--r_es-idents thought that they
would not be allowed to preserve their lifestyle. In April 1986, the Hyde
County Board of Commissioners adopted a set of development controls and
regulations to apply only to Ocracoke, titled the "Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance." The purpose of this ordinance is to "promote the
public health, safety and general welfare by regulating the density of
population; the size of yards and other open spaces; the height, size and
location of buildings and other structures; to provide for an adequate
transportation system; and to provide for adequate drainage, water supply.
and sewage disposal." Enforcement of this ordinance has had an impact upcn
the development of the Village. However, further controls, including
subdivision regulations and zoning, may be .required -to satisfactorily
manage development.
Both the 1986 Land Use Plan and the 1992 Plan recognized that the most
significant land compatibility problem on Ocracoke Island was inconsistent
land use patterns. This remains a problem. However, the most serious land
compatibility problem is the infringement of development on natural and
fragile areas. Not only are valuable natural resources being lost, the
1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -10
1

LJ
entire character of Ocracoke is being altered. The effectiveness of both
' State and Federal controls to protect the environment, in particular
wetlands areas, has been questioned by a large portion of the Ocracoke
community. It appears that some development is proceeding in
' environmentally -sensitive areas without the acquisition of proper permits.
In other cases, there appears to be inconsistent application of permit
regulations. At best. confusion exists within the Ocracoke community over
what is acceptable and permitable development under current State/Federal
' regulations. Both coastal and 404 wetlands areas continue to be lost: The
most flagrant loss occurred in the early 1960s when a large wetlands area
on the eastern shore was filled with sand pumped from the sound to create a
' residential subdivision. The declining wetlands inventory is most obvious
in the eastern one -quarter of Ocracoke and along the eastern Pamlico Sound
Shoreline.
' Many problems can result from unplanned development. One of the most
serious is the degradation of water quality. Silver Lake is no longer
safe for swimming. Septic tanks continue to be the sole means of
_ - wastewater disposal on the Island. Intensive development, particularly.___.___
adjacent to Silver Lake, continues to overload the soil's capacity to
absorb/retain the effluent. Sub -surface seepage of effluent into surface
waters occurs although the rate of seepage is debatable. Clearly, such
seepage adversely affects water quality.
Marinas and associated discharge of waste from boats continue to contribute
to pollution problems. In addition, significant increases in stormwater
runoff occur. Construction of impervious surfaces sharply increases the
"shock" loading of fresh water runoff and associated pollutants that are
' introduced into the estuarine waters. Given the Island's size and patterns
of development, large natural areas do not exist to sufficiently slow the
stormwater runoff.
I
Traffic congestion continues as a major problem resulting from the island's
development patterns. As tourist traffic increases, backups of traffic
regularly occur along Silver Lake Road and result in increased traffic
along SR 1324. adversely affecting the road's residential character. In
addition to traffic flow problems, very little off-street parking exists to
- serve day visitors. Conflicts exist between pedestrian and vehicular -_ -
traffic throughout the island but in particular along Silver Lake Road.
During the 1980s and thus far in the 1990s, the Ocracoke skyline was
significantly altered. Several three- and four-story buildings were
constructed along Silver Lake Road This issue has been partially
addressed through the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance. Additional
measures are needed to preserve the historic significance and architectural
integrity of the Village. Otherwise, many of the attributes which make
Ocracoke so appealing may be lost.
--The lack -of subdivision regulations in Hyde County has contributed to the -
construction of some poorly designed subdivisions. The resulting problems
include: inadequate roads, unsafe bridges, substandard utilities, poorly
designed lot layout. no maintenance agreements for improvements that are
made, and uncoordinated street layout and design. These problems worsen as
vacant lots are developed. Questions concerning the responsibility for the
maintenance of roads and bridges continue to exist. In many areas there is
WRT\9703-NOV-2

either no established road right-of-way or questions exist over the proper
right-of-way. This issue will present problems as Ocracoke attempts to
resolve its increasing traffic congestion problems.
Commercial development has been largely unregul.ated. However, most
commercial development has been concentrated al ng NC 12 and the eastern
portion of Silver Lake Road. The majority of t,e businesses are tourist -
oriented and, in many cases, open only during tie spring-, summer. and early
fall. As the growth of the peak population cor-.inues, further
commercialization is expected. Future commercial development should not be
allowed to infringe on residential areas or to retract from the Village's
quaint appearance. Particular attention shoulc be paid to excessive
signage.
There are no major changes in predominant land ise anticipated. The
Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance will aice in controlling density,
building height, and building location. Howeve,, the location of uses
remains largely unregulated.
Support for the establishment of zoning and sub�ivision regulations should
grow during the planning period. Such controls may be necessary to protect
Ocracoke's single-family residential areas. Cc.7nercial development should
remain primarily along NC 12 and Silver Lake Rcwd. No industrial
development is expected to occur on the island.
In the event of a major storm, some residential subdivisions could be
destroyed. Careful consideration should be given to the desirability of
reconstruction. This issue is addressed in Chapter IV, Section G. of this
1997 Update.
The following is a list of the major land use issues/problems that are
being experienced by Ocracoke Island:
• The Island's natural resources, including coastal and 404 wetlands, are
being lost to development.
• Water quality, especially in Silver L-ak-e,-has seriously declined. _-
• Ground water pollution resulting from septic tanks continues to be a
concern.
• Marinas and associated activities are contributing to water pollution
problems.
• Ocracoke Island's aesthetic appeal and coastal fishing village
character is being lost.
• Residential subdivision development has occurred: without -regulation,
resulting in poor design.
• Single-family residential areas are being threatened by multi -unit
residential structures and non-residential land uses.
• Traffic congestion and vehicular/pedestrian conflicts increase
annually.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -12
I

• The S'.3te and Federal regulations intended to protect natural resources
are n, being uniformly enforced or, in some cases, enforced at all.
• Effec:7ve protection of Ocracoke Island's historic values, envisaged by
desig,-3tion of historic district and structures, will require
appro:•,iate means of implementation.
4. Utilities and Services
a. Water system
Hyde ;-Dunty's water system has two active reverse osmosis (RO) plants.
Source water is taken from four wells, two at each plant. The wells
are p_.-:ped on alternating days. Hyde County is the only county in the
Unitec States relying exclusively on RO systems. The Ponzer plant,
utilizing two RO units, can produce 300 gallons per minute. The
Fairfield plant, utilizing one RO unit, can produce 200 gallons per
minute. Finished water is pumped from Ponzer or Fairfield to serve
Engel' ard.
There -are four active elevated tanks on mainland Hyde County.
Engel,-rd and Swan Quarter each have one 75.000 gallon tank. The tank
at Fa -,field has a 100,000 gallon capacity, and the Ponzer tank holds
200.0'.D gallons. There is also a ground storage tank in Fairfield
' which nolds 200,000 gallons. This brings the total holding capacity
for tie County to 650,000 gallons.
On the mainland, Hyde County's existing public facility waterlines --
213 miles of lines -- serve 1.760 customers. Lines serve western Hyde
County and eastern Beaufort County. Peak demand in 1997 was 650,000
gallons per day. The North Carolina Department of Corrections
facilities require 75.000 gallons per day, year-round. Anticipated
expansions at the facility could lead to the need for 90,000 gallons
per day, year-round. The highest demand for water is seasonal, serving
agriculture and shrimping industries. Hyde County will update its
mainland water supply plan in 1998.
The Ocracoke Sanitary District provides water service to Ocracoke
' Island. Since June 1977, when the district began supplying water. its
customer base has grown steadily. In 1980. there were approximately
480 customers. By January 1991, the customer total had increased to
' 744. As of July 1997, there were 991 meters. Connections to the
syste:, are allowed at the discretion of the Sanitary District Board.
Most connections occur along existing lines and do not require the
extension of new lines.
The system has two deep wells for regular use. Well #1 is located at
the water plant and Well #2 is located near the National Park Service
' Visitor's Center.
Well=1 is an eight -inch diameter well that produces 400+ gpm. It is
620 feet deep with a casing depth of 611 feet. The maximum yield of
Well =1 is limited by the 8" casing to approximately 400+ gpm as this
is the largest volume pump that the well can physically accommodate.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -13

Well #2 is a 10-inch diameter well that produces 600 gpm. It is 640
feet deep with a casing depth of 605 feet. The maximum yield of Well '
#2 is limited by the 10" casing to approximately 1600 gpm as this is
the largest volume pump that the well can physically accommodate. This
well replaces the old Well #2. Ocracoke Sanitary District began using '
this well in July 1993.
Well #1 and Well #2 are not used at the same time. Well #2 is the
primary well: however, when the water plant has to run on its emergency '
generator, Well #1 is used since this is the well that is connected to
the emergency generator. Well #2 is used approximately 80% of the time
while Well #1 is used approximately 20% of the time. '
Both wells draw from the Castle Hayne aquifer. The current combined
12-hour yield of the wells is 720,000 gallons. ,
Currently, the RO plant can produce a maximum of approximately 458,568
gallons over a 24-hour period and adequately supplies current demand.
At present, well pump size is sufficient to supply what RO equipment- '
can process.
A Water Supply Plan was adopted by the Ocracoke Sanitary District Board '
of Commissioners in October, 1993. The Plan is scheduled to be updated
in 1998. EXHIBIT 2, which follows, summarizes the Ocracoke Sanitary
District's water system. Copies of the Plan are available, along with '
the Sanitary Districts Water Regulations, for review at the District's
office.
b. Sewer System I
The County does not have a centralized collection and disposal system,
although a facultative lagoon with a spray irrigation system to serve '
approximately 295 structures in the Engelhard area is under design.
Septic tanks are the sole means of wastewater disposal for nearly the
entire County. However, the Mid -East Public Housing Project and the
Lake Mattamuskeet Wildlife Refuge both have small, private "package" '
treatment plants. Lake Mattamuskeet School is served by a lagoon
system with spray irrigation. The Courthouse will - convertr-to_use-ota- z
sand filter and drip irrigation system in 1998-99. Cross Creek Nursing '
Home uses a lagoon system with spray irrigation. The North Carolina
Department of Corrections facility is served by a Hyde County sewer
facility using a lagoon and spray irrigation, permitted at 67,500
gallons per day.
The Hyde County Shoreline Economic Development Study, completed in
1989, gave first priority to its recommendation that the County proceed '
with installation of a sewer system for Swan Quarter and Engelhard.
This system is necessary not only to attract new economic growth to
Hyde County, but also to promote existing services. ,
Except for the North Carolina Department of Transportation's facilities
at the ferry landing, there are no publicly -owned or operated sewer
treatment systems located on Ocracoke Island. With a few exceptions, '
all sewage treatment is provided by conventional septic tanks. The
following have advanced septic systems with low flow pumping for septic
field distribution: Pirates Quay, Silver Lake Motel and Annex, Ocracoke '
Horizons Condominium, Anchorage Inn, and Danny Lyons.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -14 1

' EXHIBIT 2
OCRACOKE SANITARY DISTRICT
' WATER SYSTEM SUMMARY
JULY 1997
TYPE OF PLANT - REVERSE OSMOSIS
' BEGAN OPERATION - JUNE 1977
' SOURCE - 2 DEEP WELLS 620' DEEP (CASTLE HAYNE AQUIFER)
NUMBER OF ORIGINAL METERS - 349
' NUMBER OF METERS CURRENTLY - 991
MAXIMUM DAILY PRODUCTION - 485,568 GALLONS/24 HOURS OR 337.2 GPM
MINIMUM MONTHLY USAGE-1,831,520 (USUALLY FEBRUARY OR MARCH)
MAXIMUM MONTHLY USAGE - 6,376,000 (USUALLY AUGUST)
' AVERAGE MINIMUM DAILY USAGE - 70,000 GPD
' AVERAGE MAXIMUM DAILY USAGE - 350,000 GPD
PLANT UPGRADES/ADDITIONS - 4 SINCE 1977 (1980, 1987, 1993, 1995)
' AVERAGE COST TO PRODUCE - $12.00/1,000 GALLONS
MEMBRANE DATE - 24 DuPONT B-9
' 63 FILMTEC BW30-8040
----- ....,-ELEVATED TANK CAPACITY-150,00O GALLONS
GROUND STORAGE CAPACITY - 232,000 GALLONS
' THE WATER SYSTEM IS RUN AND OPERATED BY OCRACOKE SANITARY DISTRICT. A
SANITARY DISTRICT IS APOLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
UNDER ARTICLE 2, PART 2 OF THE GENERAL STATUES OF NORTH CAROLINA, SECTION
130A-47 TO 130A-87.
SOURCE: Ocracoke Sanitary District.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 111-15

The possibility of a comprehensive sewage treatment system for Ocracoke
Island has been discussed. Some concern exists among residents that
the establishment of a central sewage treatment system would support an
increase in the density of development on Ocracoke Island. The
establishment of any central sewer system on Ocracoke Island would
require an innovative approach to sewage treatment.
c. Solid Waste
There is no solid waste landfill in Hyde County. All solid waste which
is non -recyclable is sent to landfills in Dare or Beaufort Counties or
to the East Carolina Environmental, Inc. facility in Bertie County.
Garbage on mainland Hyde County is collected (door-to-door, curbside)
by Smithton Sanitation Service and transported to Dare, Beaufort, or
Bertie landfills. All solid waste from the area east of Route 94
including Fairfield, Engelhard, and Ocracoke Island garbage is carried
to Dare County.
There are three approved solid waste convenience sites on mainland Hyde
County located at Engelhard, Swan Quarter, and Ponzer. The Swan
Quarter and Engelhard sites are used*for wood products, uncontaminated
earth, cement products, recyclable goods including glass, oil, and
antifreeze, and other temporarily -held solid wastes. The Ponzer site
is a trash drop-off convenience site only. The wastes may not be
buried at the sites. The Hyde County disposal sites have a long life
expectancy, since 90% of the solid waste is removed and sold as
recycled goods, or container -carried to landfills.
Hyde County contracts with Dare County for solid waste disposal and
collection on Ocracoke Island. The contract is renewed annually.
Collection is provided door-to-door twice per week. Businesses have
dumpsters which are emptied once per week in the "off-season." In peak
summer months, the dumpsters are emptied daily. In addition to the
Dare County contract, Hyde County contracts annually for the collection
of large items and junk automobiles.
Dare County maintains two waste
When the trucks are filled, they
and refuse is disposed of in the
roundtrip of over 140 miles.
d. Public Schools
collection trucks on Ocracoke Island.
are ferried across the Hatteras Inlet
Dare County landfill. This requires
Mainland Hyde County public school students are served by two
elementary schools (Davis, K-6: and 0. A. Peay, K-6) and one high
school (Mattamuskeet, 7-12).
Davis Elementary was designed for 300 students. In 1997, the total
enrollment at the school was 205. O.A. Peay Elementary was designed
for 300 students. The student population in 1997 was 170.
Mattamuskeet High School was designed for 550 students. In 1997, 340
students were enrolled.
Both Davis Elementary School and 0. A. Peay Elementary School were
built in 1950, with additions to each in 1953 and 1964. Mattamuskeet
High School was built in 1964 and additions were made in 1970 and 1987
WR-\9703-NOV-2 I I I -16

Although all three schools are well under maximum capacity for
'
enrollment, each has temporary facilities on the grounds which are
being used in addition to permanent structures. With the completion of
a new facility at the Mattamuskeet School site in 1998. both Davis and
'
O.A. Peay schools will be closed.
The Hyde County Shoreline Economic Development Study recommended
application to the North Carolina Community College System and the
'
North Carolina Agricultural Extension Service to investigate the need
for and options available to establish in -county post -high school
technical training. Space allocation study of the County's available
space in both permanent and temporary public school facilities might
'
permit the operation of these programs on a year-round basis.
There is one public school on Ocracoke Island. The Ocracoke School was
'
constructed in 1971 and serves grades K- 12. The facility has been
expanded since the initial construction. In 1997. 75 students were
enrolled. The school has a capacity of 135 students.
e. Recreational Facilities
Mainland Hyde County has no parks and no formal public recreation
'
program. However, a community -scale passive recreation park in the
Ponzer area will be completed in 1997-98. Camping is available at
private campsites. Waterway access is available at the public boat
'
access in Engelhard and at privately -owned marinas in the County. Hyde
County is on the Atlantic Flyway and offers excellent hunting and
fishing opportunities.
There are three National Wildlife Refuge areas in mainland Hyde County.
The 16,411-acre Swan Quarter National Wildlife Refuge has a 1.100-foot
pier which is used for fishing and recreation year-round. Mattamuskeet
'
National Wildlife Refuge includes Lake Mattamuskeet and is open year-
round and allows fishing from March 1 to November 1. The Pocosin Lakes
National Wildlife Refuge was purchased by the Federal government in the
'
early 1990s. The Alligator NWR is in Hyde and Dare Counties.
There are no current recreation plans which address Ocracoke's needs.
Except for school -supervised functions, organized recreation activities
do not exist. Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities do exist and
serve as a major stimulant for tourist activity. Foremost in outdoor
opportunities is the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The need for
'
increased shoreline access facilities in Ocracoke, and in particular
along Silver Lake, has been debated by Ocracoke residents. Hyde County
has many active civic groups.
f. Public Safety
' The Sheriff's Department on mainland Hyde County has ten employees: the
Sheriff. 1 DARE officer, one administrative assistant, four
dispatchers/jailors, and three road deputies. The department has six
patrol cars and one boat, which is shared with Ocracoke. There are
three deputies serving Ocracoke Island. There are three full-time
state trooper slots for Hyde County. Historically, crime has not been
a problem. However, the rapidly increasing peak seasonal population on
' Ocracoke Island is stretching the ability of the Sheriff's Department
WRT\9703-NOV-2 1 I 1-17

to provide adequate service w
use plans cited studies of mo
order for one officer to be "
at least five officers would
during the planning period by
ith only three deputies. Previous land
re urbanized areas which indicated that in
on the street" 24 hours a day, a force of
be required. This need will be evaluated
the Hyde County Board of Commissioners.
Hyde County is served by five in -county volunteer
serving the Engelhard. Swan Quarter, Fairfield, an
the mainland and Ocracoke Island. The Pungo River
Department from Beaufort County serves a portion o
L
fire departments
d Scranton areas of ,
Volunteer Fire
f Hyde County.
Ocracoke Island has an active and well -trained volunteer fire
department. The department is housed in adequate facilities which are
located on SR 1324. Through a mutual aide agreement, the department
keeps a trailer -mounted pump with a 250 gallon per minute pumping
capacity which is owned by the National Park Service. Fire protection
is adequate for one- and two-story structures. Equipment is not
considered adequate to deal with fires in structures three stories high
or higher. The Oyster Creek area has inadequate fire hydrants,
although vehicular access to the area has been improved.
There are three ambulances in mainland Hyde County, each with two full-
time, paid, certified emergency medical personnel. The ambulances are
located one each in Swan Quarter, Engelhard, and Fairfield. In
addition to the paid personnel, the County estimates that there are 15
volunteers, with approximately 8-10 active at a given time. The
Village does not have a dentist. Hyde County maintains four full-time
certified EMTs on Ocracoke, and a modern fully -equipped ambulance.
The Belhaven Rescue Squad, in neighboring Beaufort County, provides
emergency rescue services to the northwest portion of Hyde County.
g. Health Care
The Hyde County Health Department is staffed with five full-time
registered nurses and two licensed practical nurses. A Family Nurse
Practitioner visits the department once a week. The department employs
a speech therapist, a physical therapist, and an occupational therapist
on a contract basis. All Health Department programs are operated out
of the Hyde County Health Center Building which is located in Swan
Quarter. There is currently one private practice physician in
Engelhard, no dentist and no chiropractor.
Tideland Mental Health (a five -county agency funded by State and local
revenues) in Washington (Beaufort County) operates an outpatient
satellite office in Swan Quarter and an Adult Development Day Activity
Program (ADDAP) in Fairfield. The Swan Quarter facility treats
substance (drug and alcohol) abuse and -mental disorders. A staff
psychiatrist visits the facility every two weeks from Washington. The
ADDAP program in Fairfield is day care for the developmentally disabled
and is a group home.
Cross Creek Health Care, Inc. operates an 80-bed long-term care nursing
home facility two miles from Swan Quarter.
Fj
F
fl
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-18

C
d
Ocracoke Island has a health center which is staffed by a physician's
assistant and one registered nurse. The Village does not have a
dentist.
h. Electrical Power
The Tideland Electric Membership Corporation supplies Hyde County with
electric service. Power is purchased from the North Carolina Power and
Light Company. Improvements to the service, including a larger supply
cable, were completed in the late 1980s, which reduced brownout and
blackout problems. In November 1990. the construction of a
cogenerating plant was completed. The threat of electric shortages is
a concern, particularly as they affect the Ocracoke Sanitary District's
ability to maintain a continuous water supply. Some residents in the
County maintain their own generators.
i. General Government
Hyde County provides essential government services to the mainland and
Ocracoke Island which include social services, health department, -
Sheriff's department, planning, school system, emergency services,
building inspections, and general administrative services. The five -
member Hyde County Board of Commissioners employees a County Manager
who manages County services and finances. The County also employs a
full-time professional planner. Ocracoke Island has one designated
seat on the Board of Commissioners.
The incorporation of Ocracoke Island has been debated by its residents.
However, no clear consensus on the issue exists. Incorporation would
allow the residents of Ocracoke more immediate and local control of
local land use issues. It is anticipated that the question of
incorporation will be a major issue during the planning period.
5. Transportation System
a. Vehicular Movement
There are approximately 225 miles of paved roads in Hyde County and
-- about 60 miles of unpaved roads. There are about 90 miles of primary — -- --
roads and over 188 miles of secondary roads.
There are three primary roads in mainland Hyde County: US 264, NC 94,
' and NC 45. Overall traffic volumes have not changed significantly since,
the late 1980s.
Most of the roads on the Ocracoke Island are designated state roads and
' are maintained by the State. However, a number of roads in residential
subdivisions do not meet minimum State standards, and, therefore, are
- not -state -maintained. This is an especially serious problem in the
' subdivisions located along the eastern shoreline of Ocracoke.
Because Hyde County does not have a subdivision ordinance, some areas
' have been subdivided without dedicated rights -of -way or minimum
construction standards for roads. This has resulted in continuing
maintenance problems for adjoining property owners. Hyde County cannot
assume maintenance because state statutes do not permit counties to
' provide road maintenance.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -19

Tra'lic congestion along Silver Lake Road on Ocracoke Island.
par=icularly during the summer season. is an increasingly serious
pre:lem. Not only is vehicular movement difficult. but there are
inc-easing conflicts between vehicular and pedestrian traffic.
Prc*ects scheduled in the 1997-2003 Transportation Improvement Program
(TI-) of the North Carolina Department of Transportation are provided
as :_XHIBIT 3. The 1997-2003 TIP also includes two projects related to
bic.:le and pedestrian needs in Hyde County. These are:
NC _? Nags Head to Ocracoke. Includes Dare Co. Wide paved shoulders
NC _4 Fairfield to Columbia. Includes Tyrrell Co. Wide paved shoulders
In �q effort to promote tourism in mainland Hyde County, the following
rec:,mendations were made in the Hyde County Shoreline Economic
De%=�opment Study, 1989:
• Establishment of a tourist/visitors center at the intersection of
JS 264 and NC 45.
• -=stablishment of a second center established on US 264 at the
Dctagon House.
• dyde County participation in the North Carolina Department of
ransportation (D.O.T.) Adopt -A -Highway program. Implementation of
D.O.T. wildflower research project along US 264 from the Hyde
.ounty Airport west to the Hyde County line. Careful consideration
and possible request for D.O.T. designation of segments of US 264
:s a scenic highway.
Hyc= County, in the Hyde County Emergency Operations Plan, has planned
for the coordinated evacuation and re-entry of the County population if
nec-ssary during emergencies. A hazard analysis and a vulnerability
ass=ssment have been completed which identify the types of threats and
the areas and population in the County that are most vulnerable to
these threats. Efforts are being made to identify special evacuation
prc:lems.
The two highway routes allowing evacuation from Hyde County are US 264
and NC 45 and use of these two routes necessitates crossing two-lane
bricges. General evacuation from Ocracoke requires -the use of ferries
and emergency schedules.
Due to the geographical nature of Hyde County (land masses joined by
bric-ges or ferries) combined with the forces of wind and water, there
is significant potential for large populations of people to become
isolated. Evacuation and re-entry routes through adjacent counties are
prc-e to flooding, as are certain roads in Hyde County.
A c:mprehensive hurricane evacuation study was completed in 1987 to
determine traffic evacuation clearanc-e--times._-There are no approved
hurricane shelters in Hyde County, thus necessitating evacuation from
the County during hurricane threats.
Eva:uation from Ocracoke could necessitate travel through Dare County.
Thee is no commercial public transportation servicing Hyde County.
Hur-icane evacuation route signs have been placed along the two
eva:uation routes from Hyde County.
F�
E
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -20 1

EXHIBIT 3
EXCERPT FROM 1997 - 2003
TRANSPORTATION IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (TIP)
OF THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
HIGHWAY PROGRAM
.HYDE COUNTY
TOTAL
PRIOR
WORK TYPE SCHEDULE
nouTE/CITY
ID NO.
LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION
LENGTH
EST.
YEARS
(FUNDING) FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR
'
(MI)
COST
COST
EST. COST
(KMI
ITHOUI
(THOU)
(THOU) 97 98 99 00 01 02 03
NC 12
R-3116
OCRACOKE TO SOUTN TERMINAL OF OREGON INLET
64.0
JOINT NCDOT / US CORPS OF ENGINEERS PROJECT
'
BRIDGE. PLANMIND AND ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
FOR MAINTAINING ROADWAY.
103.1
NC 94
R•2564
FAIRFIELD TO COLUMBIA. UPGRADE EXISTING
26.5
$550
IDENTIFIED FUTURE NEED - CONSTRUCTION
ROADUAT AND ADD TWO FOOT PAVED SHOULDERS.
43.1
BY DIVISION
'
NC 45
a-3473
PUNGO RIVER CANAL. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 30
-
400
C(POC) 40C CONSTRUCTION - FFY 02 .
17S 2"
a-3348
CANAL. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 54
325
R(FA) 25 RIGHT OF WAY - FFY 00
C(FA) 300 CONSTRUCTION - FFY 01 ..
'
e1 264
8-3349
ROSE BAT CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 32
450
R(FA) SO RIGHT OF WAY - FFY 00
C(FA) 400 CONSTRUCTION FFY 01
U3 264•NC 45
B-3193
SCRANTOM CREEK. REPLACE BRIDGE NO. 29
1100
R(FA) 100 RICO OF VAT - FFY.93
C(FA) 1000 CONSTRUCTION - FIT 99
'
-- _RC 12
F-2414
CEDAR ISLARO/OCRACOKE, ENGINEER L CONSTRUCT-
2150
350
C(SF) 1500 CONSTRUCTION - FIT 97 - ---
STRETCH AND REPOVER MW CARTERET' FERRY.
NO 12
F•2419
CEDAR ISLAND/OCRACOKE, CONSTRUCT A 220'
-
6500
C(OPF) SZ00 CONSTRUCTION - FFY 99
'
"SOUND CLASS" FERRY.
C(SF ) 1300 CONSTRUCTION - FIT 99
NO 12.
F•3301
WAR QUARTER/OCRACDKE. CONSTRUCT A 220'
-
6750
C(DPF) 54DO CONSTRUCTION - FFY 00
"SOUND CLASS" FERRY.
C(SF ) 1350 CONSTRUCTION - FFY Go
'
RC 12
F-3304 ' OCRACOKE. REPLACE PILE CLUSTERS AND RAMPS. - 14SO 1450 C(SF)
UNDER CONSTRUCTION
NC 12
F-3400 OCRRACOKE/rATTERAS, CONSTRUCT A 151' 2500 COPF)
2000 CONSTRUCTION - FFY 98
"RATTERAS CLASS" FERRY.
C(SF )
500 CONSTRUCTION - FIT 98
'
NC 45
,F_nGS SPAN QUARTER, BRIDGE AND PILE CLUSTER - 2500 C(SF )
2500 CONSTRUCTION • FIT 01
REPLACEMENTS.
• INDICATES INTRASTATE PROJECT
ALL SCHEDULES SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS
ROUTE/Ci1Y
ID N0. LOCATION AND
LENGTH TOTAL PRIOR WORKTYPE
EST. YEARS (FUNDING)
SCHEDULE
FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR
DESCRIPTION
(MI)
q
COST COST EST. COST
KNQ
7 98 99 00 Qt 02 03
9
(THOU) (THOU) (THOU)
NO 00
R-M * MO TO HOMETOWN.
15.3 24160 250 P
WIDEN EXISTING ROADWAY 24.6 D
TO A FOUn­LANE DMDED
R (NHS) 455o
FACILITY WITH A BYPASS
C (NHS) Tom
ON NEw LocAnorL
TOTAL ESTIMATED
i
SCHEDULE -Bar length covers time In federal
'
ROUTENUMBER INDICATES
I
COSTOFPROJECT
fiscal years that each work lypelescheduled 4D
be accomplished Indicates work started
Ibted h odor d I. RliRASTATE
In orderof I. LENGTH OF
IN THOUSANDS OF
DOLLARS.
before FFY 97 or extends beyond FFY 03
US. SR. PROJECT
PROJECT IN
no rk tpplicable). ype bar 13 hown. Phase Is
OR New Route.
AND
completed of ore
KILOMETERS
IDENTIFICATION NUMBER Is
PRIOR YEAR COST IN WORKTYPE
THOUSAND$ OF DOLLARS (Phase of project
P PWv*V FUNDING
D Design The category of (undo
assigned to each project at Its
Conception and remains with It
equals authorized funding for Implementation)
R Riphtd Way proprart)med tot rtpfit d
until completion.
project In previous years.
C Constructon way and conalrrc0on.
See key below. Funding
'
for P S D not shorn.
KEY TO FUNDING SOURCES -
I
asnMALTao ooaT
APD
Appalachian Developmerd
NFA Bridge Replacemenl06-FederaMld,System
Right of way and
construction Coat estimates
el
Bridge Inspection
NFAM Munidpal Bridge Replacement Program
by funding category (maybe
C
City
NHS National Highway System
mom than one fur)dfn9
CM
Congestionfrgtigatbn
O Other.
TyP0)'
OP
Olsaetionay or Demonstration Project
PLF Persomalzed Automobile license Plate Fund
DPI
Dlsaetiorury (Innovative Projects)
POD Purchase Order Contracts
'
DPR
Discretionary (Rural Aooess)
RR RaNMghwaySalety,
FA
Bridge Replacement OnfedemMid-Salem
S 'State Construction
FLP
Federal Lands Program
SF Ford"
HES
High HezardSalety
STP Surface Transportation Program
NOV
HOvOavpancyVehide
STPE Surface Transportation Program. Enhancement
'
1
huterstate
T Highway Trust Fund.
IM
Interstate Malnta once
Ftmding SOu= nTsychange to accommodate roverfue mdattons,
'
III-21

SOURCE: North Carolina Department of Transportation.
III - 22

b. Ferry Service
The North Carolina Department of Transportation operates ferry service
from Swan Quarter to Ocracoke. Schedules vary to accommodate expected
1 vehicular demand, which is highest in the summer months. Ferry service
is also provided from Cedar Island to Ocracoke and from Hatteras to
Ocracoke.
' Ocracoke is totally dependent upon ferry service for vehicular access.
TABLE 2 provides a summary of ferry traffic for July 1993 through June
1997.
' TABLE 2
FERRY STATISTICS
uvnr rni [KITv hinRTN rARnl TWA
u
FISCAL YEAR
# VEHICLES
TOTAL PASSENGERS
(includes vehicle occupancy,
pedestrians, and bike riders)
July
1993 -
June
1994
8,265
18,727
July
1994 -
June
1995
9.129
19,283
July
1995 -
June
1996
8,818
19,406
July
1996 -
June
1997
9,974
20,128
SOURCE: North Carolina Department of Transportation.
These figures indicate the phenomenal growth in tourism which is
impacting Ocracoke.
Clearly the operation of ferry service by the State has growth
implications for Ocracoke. Either increases or decreases in ferry
service will have a direct and dramatic impact on Ocracoke growth
patterns.
In addition to tourist access, the ferry service provides a vital link
to the mainland for goods, services, and essential needs such as
medical care. In order to improve linkage to the Hyde County mainland,
relocation of the Swan Quarter ferry terminal to the Outfall Canal at
East Bluff Bay should be considered. This would shorten the crossing
by approximately 10 miles and decrease crossing time by approximately
45 minutes. This route change could also substantially decrease
operating costs.
c. Navigable Waters
Mainland Hyde County is bordered by the Intracoastal Waterway to the
north. the Pungo River to the west, and Pamlico Sound to the south and
east. Lake Mattamuskeet, the largest natural lake in North Carolina,
lies in the center of the County. The only public boat access listed
by the Department of Transportation in 1997 was at Engelhard.
In 1995, the N.C. Division of Coastal Management listed 17 marinas
(public or commercial) in Hyde County. with a total of 277 wet boat
slips. 70 drystack slips, and 53 moorings. A description of these
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -23

facilities and their reroective services and features is included as
APPENDIX 1. The nearer_ seaport is in Morehead City, North Carolina.
some 52 miles from Swat, quarter.
d. Airport
Hyde County maintains a -odern general aviation airport approximately
three miles east of Enc_-hard. The airport is unattended. However: a
small modern terminal t.."lding exists. The paved runway is 4,800 feet
by 100 feet. Airside f_z_-ilities include pilot -controlled lighting,
VASI (visual approach s*2pe indicator), and medium intensity runway
lighting. The airport completely surrounded -by agricultural usage
and vacant land. The r-zrest commercial carrier airport is the Craven
County Regional Airport some 46 miles from Swan Quarter.
Housing and Accommodations
Despite participation in se.eral past Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG)-housing projects, th= Section 8 program, weatherization programs,
and Federal housing prograc_. a lack of standard housing continues to be
one of the most critical cc-runity development needs. Some County leaders
point to a lack of affordat rental housing as well. CDBG projects have
been completed in the follc,.-ng communities: Saint Lydia, Fairfield,
Nebraska, Scranton, and Slc=:m. Over 16% of the mainland dwellings lack
complete plumbing facilitie: and 22% lack complete kitchen facilities.
Although the County has a F.Dlic water system, many residents are not
served because the isolatec. sparsely -populated composition of many
communities makes waterline extension impossible from a cost/benefit
standpoint. Provision of a --equate water supply and sanitary facilities,
structural improvements, weatherization improvements, and fire hazard
removal are major problems -acing many of the County's communities.
TABLE 3 summarizes occupant,., and tenure and water and sewer availability
with respect to the County'S housing stock in 1980 and 1990.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-24

I TABLE 3
HOUSING PROFILE: OCCUPANCY AND TENURE AND WATER AND SEWER, 1980 AND 1990
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
0
7
1980 Hyde County
1990 Hyde County
Total Housing Units
2836
2905
Seasonal Unit
293
495
Vacant Units
514
811
Renter Occupied Units
457
481
Owner Occupied Units
1572
1613
Mobile Homes
399
787
Total Occupied
2029
2094
Sub -Standard Housing
344
234
Public or Private Water
1522
1883
Other Water Source
73
85
Public Sewer
150
92
Septic Tank
1978
2624
[Other Sewage Disposal
415
189
SOURCE: North Carolina, Office of Planning, State Data Center.
The total number of dwelling units on the Hyde County mainland in 1990 was
' 1,782 including approximately 519 vacant units. Thus, from 1980 to 1990,
the number of mainland occupied dwelling units decreased from 1.799 to
1.782. The average persons in occupied units was 2.86 in 1990.
The age and condition of the mainland housing stock are a continuing Hyde
County problem. As TABLE 4 indicates. 30% of the County's housing was
built prior to 1950. The County does have a minimum housing code.
' However, vigorous enforcement of the code on occupied substandard dwellings
is difficult because the supply of standard affordable housing is extremely
limited. Most of the vacant mainland dwelling units are substandard.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -25

TABLE 4
HOUSING PROFILE: AGE AND NUMBER OF UNITS IN STRUCTURE. 1930-1997
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Housing Age
Year
1930 or
1940
:950-
1960
1970
1980
1985-
1989
1990
Structure
earlier
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Built
1949
1-59
1969
1979
1984
1988
1990
1997
(Mar)
HYDE
687
198
2:3
360
698
292
345
35
191
COUNTY
Number of Housing Units in Structure
No. of
1 unit
1 unit
2
3 - 4
5 - 9
10-19
20-49
50+
Housing
detached
attached
units
units
units
units
units
units
Units
HYDE
1962
21
26
12
18
6
0
0
N/A
COUNTY
SOURCE: Census of Population and Hc.;sing, Summary Tape File 3A.
A major housing need of the low and moderate income (LMI) population of
Hyde County is the lack of standard affordable housing. This lack of
affordable housing is a major obstacle to economic development since it
restricts the availability of labor in areas where industrial development
could otherwise occur. Also, existing housing owned and occupied by LMI
households is generally in poorer condition than housing occupied by more
affluent households due to the occupants' financial inability to make
needed repairs. This problem is compounded by the fact that many LMI
tenants cannot afford to pay enough rent to justify the expense of
rehabilitation by the landlord. The result is a gradual degradation of
structural conditions and an increase of bl-ighting conditions in areas
occupied by LMI households throughout the County. The County's CDBG
applications have documented the fact that well over 80% of the occupants
of communities or neighborhoods defined as slum and blighted areas have low
and moderate incomes.
In 1990, the median value of housing in Hyde County was $43,600. TABLE 5
provides housing values in 1990 for owner occupied housing units (1,004).
Nearly 87% of these structures were valued less than $100,000.
11
u
WRT\9103-NOV-2 I I I -26 1

TABLE 5
HOUSING PROFILE: VALUES FOR OWNER OCCUPIED HOUSING UNITS, 1990
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Housing Value Hyde County
Less than $15K 132
$15 - 19.9K 75
$20 - 24.9K 45
$25 - 29.9K 84
$30 - 34.9K 47
$35 - 39.9K 67
$40 - 44.9K 73
$45 - 49.9K 72
$50 - 59.9K 81
$60 - 74.9K 113
$75 - 99.9K 83
$100-124.9K 44
$125-149.9K 34
$150-174.9K 8
$175-199.9K 0
$200-249.9K 15
$250-299.9K 20
$300-399.9K 11
$400-499.9K 0
Greater than $500K 0
SOURCE: Census of Population and Housing, Summary Tape File 3A.
TABLE 6, which follows, shows the level and type of construction on
mainland Hyde County and Ocracoke Island from 1990 through 1997.
TABLE 6
PERMITS ISSUED FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION
1990-1997
HYDE COUNTY. NORTH CAROLINA
Type of Construction
1990
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1991
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1992
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1993
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1994
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1995
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1996
Mainland/
Ocracoke
1997
Mainland/
Ocracoke
Single Family Dwellings
9
18
8
23
11
13
19
12
9
11
12
15
4
11
9
7
Multi Family Dwellings
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
13
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Commercial
7
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
3
2
4
Industrial
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Public/Semi Public
Institutional
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
]M0
Manufactured Homes
42
0
32
3
22
6
29
2
34
2
19
0
39
SOURCE: Hyde County Building Inspection Department.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -27

The growth of new housing on the mainland has been slow but consistent. I-
1990, there were 2,301 housing units on the mainland. Since 1990, buildir:
permits for new housing totaled 351, for a current total of 2.652 housing
units. Thus, it appears that new construction is decreasing commensurate
with the County's mainland population decline. The preservation of housir-
for all mainland income levels will continue to be a primary Hyde County
need.
The number of housing units on Ocracoke Island increased from 305 in 1970
to 471 in 1980, for an increase of 54.4%. This trend continued through the
1990 Census count when 604 housing units were recorded, for an increase o=
28.2%, or 2.8% annually.
Since 1990, 125 new housing units have been built on Ocracoke, for a
current total of 729 housing units. The 1990 housing total of 604 units
was comprised of 312 units classified as year-round and 292 units
classified as seasonal (which includes vacant units that are held for
occasional use). These figures indicate that 48.3% of the total housing
units in 1980 on Ocracoke Island were for seasonal use.
The 1990 Census counted the Village's population at 713 persons. The
average number of persons per household in 1990 was 2.26 persons per
housing unit.
The 1990 Census showed that 840 of the County's total 2,905 were mobile
homes. Of the 604 housing units recorded in 1990 in Ocracoke, 71 were
mobile homes.
7. Plans, Studies, and Regulations
a. Building Code
Hyde County enforces the North Carolina State Building Code. The
County employs a building inspector who serves both mainland Hyde
County and Ocracoke Island. A minimum housing code was adopted on
December 3, 1979.
b. National Flood Insurance Program
c
Hyde County participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and
complies with all related regulatory requirements.
Hyde County Transportation Development Plan
In October, 1986, the Hyde County Transportation Steering Committee
completed the Transportation Improvement Plan. The document was
prepared to define a course for coordinated human service
transportation planning among the County's-socia-1 service agencies.
Because of Ocracoke's isolation, the plan addressed only mainland
transportation needs.
1
C
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-28

d.
Hyde County. Engelhard. Swan Quarter, and Ocracoke Shoreline Economic
Development Study
In 1988, Hyde County prepared the Shoreline Economic Development Study_
The document focused on the shore'ines in Ocracoke. Swan Quarter, and
Engelhard. Obstacles to develops-nt were identified and specific
recommendations were made for im:-ovements to all three areas. Many of
the recommendations concerning Ocracoke are included in the policies
section of this plan.
e.
Ocracoke Village Development Ord-ance
The Ocracoke Village Development _rdinance was adopted April 21, 1986,
and amended November 6, 1989. S: e development standards such as
'
minimum lot size and setbacks are established. However, land use is
not regulated. The Ordinance do--; not provide zoning.
f.
1992 Hyde County CAMA Land Use P•an (1992 Plan)
The 1992 Hyde County Land Use P1a~ was prepared to satisfy the
requirements of the CAMA land us- planning program and to establish
some guidelines for development -,'thin the County. The plan was
divided into separate sections d-=ling with the mainland and Ocracoke.
County leaders have described di--iculties in utilizing the current
'
land use plan due to its format. Also, limited resources and lack of
staff make enforcement of more tr_n minimum standards -- for which
State and Federal agencies supple support personnel and technical
expertise -- impractical for the :ounty at this time.
g.
Hyde County Economic Diversifica_--on Study
'
The Hyde County Economic Diversification Study completed in 1995, was
County
funded by the USDA. The County Clamber of Commerce and the Hyde
Advisory Council aided in the de\elopment of this study. The purpose
of the study was to provide a wor<ing document that would implement the
'
County's efforts to diversify its economy and develop nature -based
tourism.
'
This study provided an assessment of the economic development climate
in the County. Realizing the im:ortance of private sector
participation in the economic development of the County, the study
provided a review of financial resources and technical assistance that
might be reached by an individua- pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.
The economic diversification strategies were divided into short- and
'
long-range strategies.
h.
Swan Quarter Revitalization Plan
'
Prepared for the County by Allis:n Platt and Associates in 1997, this
report acknowledges that the most viable opportunities for Hyde County
will come from regional tourism ~elated to hunting and fishing,
heritage tourism, or ecotourism. The report details the market for the
recommended uses, suggests some :ossible locations for such uses within
Swan Quarter, outlines minimum i-orovements needed to attract outside
investment, and outlines impleme~ration strategies including next steps
'
and potential funding sources.
' WRT\9703-NOV-2 III-29

i. Hyde County Water Supply Plan
,
Developed in 1993 by Hyde County and Rivers and Associates, Inc., and
revised in 1994, the Water Supply Plan will provide guidance for the
future development of water supolies for the Hyde County Water System,
'
as well as useful information t3 the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources for the deve'.cpment of a State water supply plan as
required by statute.
'
j. Water Supply Plan, Town of Ocracoke, North Carolina
Developed in 1993, by the Ocracoke Sanitary District. the plan
'
discusses the District's popula-ion served, water usage, sources,
wastewater discharge informatic-1, future conditions and demand, and
potential future supply sources.
'
k. Albemarle Regional Solid Waste Management Plan
The Albemarle Regional Solid Waste Management Authority assisted its
members and participating municipalities with the Solid Waste
Management Plans, as required by N.C. General Statute 130A-309.09A(b).
The Authority is made up of seven counties (Hyde, Tyrrell, Currituck,
'
Dare, Chowan. Perquimans, and Gates) and 10 municipalities (Southern
Shores. Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, Manteo, Columbia,
Edenton, Gatesville. Hertford, and Winfall). The plan was completed in
1996 and covers a ten-year planning period.
,
8. Land Suitability Constraints
,
a. Physical Limitations
(1) Man -Made Hazards
,
There are no significant man-made hazards located in Hyde
County. Fuel for retail and wholesale distribution is located
throughout the County %.,ith concentrations occurring at the
'
ferry terminal, marinas, service stations, home heating fuel
dealers, and farms. Agricultural fertilizer and other -
chemicals are stored at numerous locations throughout the
'
County. However, these chemicals are essential to agricultural
production and are not considered hazardous to adjacent land
uses.
,
The most significant man-made hazards in the Hyde County
vicinity are the Pamlico B Military Operations Area (MOA), and
Restricted Area R-5314 . The Pamlico B MOA covers the eastern
'
quarter of the Hyde County mainland and extends into Pamlico
Sound. The Restricted Area R-5314 is located north of Hyde --
County and extends into the northeastern edge of the County in
'
an unpopulated area. The Pamlico B MOA is heavily utilized for
military training flights which primarily originate out of the
Cherry Point Marine Corps Air Station. Much of this activity
is for flights traveling to the R-5313 bombing range which is
'
located in Pamlico Sound between the mainland and the
Rodanthe/Salvo area on the Outer Banks. The R-5314 area north
,
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -30 1

' of the County is a highly active area in which military flight
activity focuses on bombing ranges located in Dare County.
The County maintains the Hyde County Airport which is located
' approximately three miles eas, of Engelhard. The facility has a
4,700 foot paved lighted runway. The facility is located
adjacent to agricultural land .ise in an unpopulated area of the
County. The facility is not considered hazardous to adjacent
land uses.
There are no significant man -ride hazards located on Ocracoke
Island. Fuel storage tanks cc7prise the.only potential hazard.
The largest fuel storage facilities are located at the North
Carolina Department of Transpertation Ferry Terminal and the
'
U.S. Coast Guard Station. The Tideland Electric Membership
Cooperative stores diesel fue' for its power generating
facilities. Other fuel storage tanks are located at marinas and
retail gasoline outlets. There have not been any known
problems of either surface or subsurface water pollution.
Because of the lack of industrial development, the storage or
usage of other significant amounts of hazardous materials on
Ocracoke Island is not anticipated.
The Ocracoke Island Airport is located in the Cape Hatteras
'
National Seashore south of Ocracoke Village. The airport is
utilized by general aviation light aircraft. Normal low
altitude approaches, departures, and other flights within the
airport's traffic pattern do not result in low altitude flights
over Ocracoke Village. Therefore, the airport is not
considered a hazard.
Ocracoke Island is also located in the southeast corner of the
Pamlico B Military Operations Area (MOA). In addition, the
R-5306A restricted area is located immediately southwest of the
Island. The U. S. Marine Corps has requested approval for the
establishment of a new MOA, the Core MOA. The Core MOA will
extend along almost the entire length of Core Banks. If estab-
lished, Ocracoke Island will be completely surrounded -by
restricted or military operations areas. While low level
flights of military aircraft over Ocracoke Village do not
normally occur, the County considers the military operations
disruptive to the area's environment and to general aviation
accessibility to the airport. In January, 1986, the Hyde
County Board of Commissioners went on record as opposing the
establishment of any more military operation areas, in eastern
North Carolina. The 1992 Plan reaffirmed Hyde County's
opposition to their presence. The existing and proposed MOAs
are considered hazardous to Ocracoke's environment.
(2) Topography, Geology, and Groundwater Resources
Hyde County lies completely within the Coastal Plain Flatwoods
physiographic region. The topography of the County is
generally flat with only rare occurrences of ridges exceeding
five percent (5%). Elevations range from sea level along the
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-31

estuarine shoreline to approximately 18 feet above -sea revel in -
the vicinity of Alligator Lake.
The County is underlain by sedimentary deposits ranging in age
from Cretaceous to Recent. The deposits form a wedge-shaped
body oriented generally in a north -south direction and -anging
in thickness from about 1,000 feet in the western part 3f the
County to approximately 10,000 feet in the Outer Banks area.
The deposits include beds of sand, clay, marl, and limestone.
Within the central portions of the mainland, the depos--s may
be divided into four major aquifer systems. These inc-,de the
Cretaceous sands; the Eocene limestone; the sand, marl. and
shell beds predominantly of Miocene age,.and the sand. -..arl,
and shell beds of post -Miocene age in which water is nc-
confined. The Miocene aquifer system is the most exter ively
developed for water usage on the mainland. Yields in
individual wells range from 5 to.75 gallons per minute. This
water is generally satisfactory for domestic uses. Hae,ever, in
some locations, supply is relatively high in hardness aid iron
content.
The Pamlico Sound and Ocracoke Island area is underlair by
sedimentary deposits ranging in age from Cretaceous to recent.
The deposits form a wedge-shaped body which is orientec
generally in a north -south direction. It ranges in thickness
from about 1,000 feet on its western edge to 10,000 fee- along
the Outer Banks. The deposits include beds of sand, clay,
marl, and limestone. Throughout much of the area, the aquifer
provides water which is too salty for most uses. While
Ocracoke receives its water supply from wells, the wells are
shallower than the Cretaceous aquifer. The Village's well
water comes from shallower overlying aquifers.
(3) Flood Hazard Areas
Detailed Flood Insurance Rate Maps were prepared for Hyde
County in February 1987. by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) and are available for review in the Hyde County
Building Inspections Department. The 100-year floodservesas-
the base flood for the purpose of floodplain management. The
100-year flood line represents the level that water would reach
or "rise to" during a flood that may be expected to occur on
the average of once during a 100-year period. Thus, there is a
1% chance of a 100-year flood occurring during any one year.
MAP 3 provides the approximate boundaries of the Hyde County
flood insurance zones which represent areas having floc-d
potential. The Hyde County mainland, except for two areas of
Zone C, which are areas of minimal flooding,. is all within the ----
100-year floodplain in either Zone A. Zone B. or Zone 1. Zone
A areas are those of shallow flooding where depths -are between
one (1) and three (3) feet. Zone B areas are those between
limits of the 100-year flood and 500-year flood: or certain
areas subject to 100-year flooding with average depths less
than one (1) foot or where the contributing drainage area is
less than one square mile; or areas protected by levees from
NRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -32
E
1

the base flood. Zone V areas are those of 100-year coastal
flood with velocity from wave action and are generally narrow
areas along the sound or the banks of the lake or river.
Zone V generally extends inland to areas where the 100-year
flood depth is sufficient to support a 3-foot breaking wave.
' Such wave action would normally be associated with strong
coastal storms. Because of the additional hazards associated
with wave action. the National Flood Insurance Program
' regulations require more demanding construction procedures in
those areas affected by wave action - including elevating
structures on piles or piers.
All of Ocracoke Village is located within the 100-year flood -
"storm
plain area. In addition, the island is subject to
surge" flooding. The greatest hazard to development in
Ocracoke Village is the threat of destruction which could
'
result from a major hurricane. In fact, during the storm of
1933, the Village was completely inundated.
With respect to all of Hyde County, a long-range flooding
problem may result from anticipated sea level rise.
In 1986, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers prepared maps of
coastal North Carolina which delineated the flooding which may
be expected to occur as a result of hurricanes. The maps were
prepared utilizing a computer base model named SLOSH. Sea Lake
Overlaid Surge From Hurricanes. The model plots hurricane -
related flooding which may result from a number of
'
characteristics including wind speed, wind direction, time,
tide, etc. The following defines the five storm surge
categories:
'
Category 1. Winds of 74 to 95 miles per hour. Damage
primarily to shrubbery, trees, foliage, and unanchored mobile
homes. No appreciable wind damage to other structures. Some
damage to poorly constructed signs. Storm surge possibly 4 to
'
5 feet above normal. Low-lying roads inundated, minor pier
damage, some small craft in exposed anchorage torn from
moorings.
Category 2. Winds of 96 to 110 miles per hour. Considerable
damage to shrubbery and tree foliage; some trees blown down.
Major damage to exposed mobile homes. Extensive damage to
'
poorly constructed signs. Some damage to roofing materials of
buildings; some window and door damage. No major wind damage
to buildings. Storm surge possibly 6 to 8 feet above normal.
Coastal roads and low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising
water 2 to 4 hours before arrival of hurricane center. Con-
siderable damage to piers. Marinas flooded. Small craft in
- -
unprotected anchorages torn from moorings. Evacuation of -some --
shoreline residences and low-lying island areas required.
Category 3. Winds of 111 to 130 miles per hour. Foliage torn
from trees; large trees blown down. Practically all poorly -
constructed signs blown down. Some damage to roofing materials
of buildings; some window and door damage. Some structural
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -33

WRT\9703-NOV-2
--- damage -to small buildings. Mobile homes destroyed. Storm
surge possibly 9 to 12 feet above normal. Serious flooding at
coast and many smaller structures near coast destrcyed; larger
'
structures near coast damaged by battering waves and floating
debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water 3
to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives.
'
Category 4. Winds of 131 to 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and
trees blown down; all signs down. Extensive damage to roofing
materials, windows, and doors. Complete failure of roofs on
'
many small residences. Complete destruction of motile homes.
Storm surge possibly 13 to 18 feet above normal. �'ajor damage
to lower floors of structures near shore due to flcoding and
'
battering by waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape
routes inland cut by rising water 3 to 5 hours befcre hurricane
center arrives. Major erosion of beaches.
'
Category 5. Winds greater than 155 miles per hour. Shrubs and
trees blown down; considerable damage to roofs of buildings;
all signs down. Very severe and extensive damage to windows
'
and doors. Complete failure of roofs on many resicences and
industrial buildings. Extensive shattering of glass in windows
and doors. Some complete building failures. Small buildings
'
overturned or blown away. Complete destruction of mobile
homes. Storm surge possibly greater than 18 feet above normal.
Major damage to lower floors of all structures less than 15
feet above sea level. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by
'
rising water 3 to 5 hours before hurricane center arrives.
(4) Areas With Soils Limitations
,
MAP 4 provides a delineation of the general soil types found on
the Hyde County mainland. Over 50% of the County's land area '
has soil conditions which are considered good for agricultural
production. However, all soil associations have moderate to
severe limitations for dwellings, septic tanks, light industry. ,
and roads/streets. In fact, over 75% of the County's area has
severe wetness and flooding conditions. TABLE 7 provides a
summary of the soil associations and their limitations for
usage.
III-34
f'
CJI

TABLE 7
SOIL ASSOCIATIONS AND USE LIMITATIONS - MAINLAND
HYnF r(IIINTY NnPTH CApnI TNA
Soil Association
% of
% of
Dwelling
With
Light
Roads and
Suitability
County
Association
Septic Tanks
Industries
Streets
For
Agriculture
Myatt-Bladen
7
Myatt
55
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
Wt.
Fl.
Sev.
Wt. Fl.
Good
Bladen
30
Sev.
Wt.
Fl.
Sev.
Wt.
Fl.
Sev.
Wt. F1.
Good
Weeksville-Pasquotank
11
Weeksville
65
Mod.
to
Sev.
Wt.
Mod.
to
Sev. Wt.
Mod.
to Sev. Wt.
Good
Pasquotank
20
Mod.
to
Sev.
Wt.
Mod.
to
Sev. Wt.
Mod.
to Sev. Wt.
Good
Hyde-Bayboro
12
Hyde
40
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Perm.
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
Wt. F1.
Good
Bayboro
40
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Perm.
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
Wt. F1.
Good
Capers-Newhan
8
Capers
65
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
F1.
Cor.
Sev.
F1.
Poor
Newhan
25
Sev.
Fl.
Sev.
F1.
Mod.
Texture
Poor
Dare-Pungo-Donovan
20
Dare
35
Sev.
Fl.
Sev.
F1.
Cor.
Sev.
F1. TSC
Good
Pungo
35
Sev.
Fl.
Sev.
F1.
Cor.
Sev.
F1. TSC
Good
Donovan
15
Sev.
Fl.
Sev.
Fl.
Cor.
Sev.
Fl. TSC
Good
Ponzer-Belhaven-Wasda
30
Ponzer
40
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
F1.
Wt.
Sev.
F1. TSC
Good
Belhaven
30
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
Fl.
Wt.
Sev.
Fl. TSC
Poor
Wasda
15
Sev.
Wt.
F1.
Sev.
F1.
Wt.
Sev.
F1. TSC
Good
SOURCE: United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service.
NOTES FOR SOIL INTERPRETATIONS:
Moderate (MOD): Soils have properties moderately favorable for the rated use. Limitations can be overcome or modified with
planning, design, or special maintenance.
Severe (SEV): Soils have one or more properties unfavorable for the rated use. Limitations are difficult and costly to modify or
overcome, requiring major soil,reclamation, special design, or intense maintenance.
Abbreviations for Limiting Factors: i
Fl-Flood Hazard Wt.- Water Table Cor,.- Corrosion Potential TSC - Traffic Supporting Capacity
The suitability of soils for agricultural production was based upon the production of corn, soybeans, and other small grain
crops.

The soil conditions on -Ocracoke _ Island are extremely poor. The
majority of the island has either Corolla fine sand or Duckston
fine sand soils. Both soil types are extremely wet and have severe
limitations for dwellings, road construction. and septic tank
filter field construction. Only one soil type, Newhan fine, does
not have severe limitations: This soil covers only limited areas of
Ocracoke. See TABLE 8.
TABLE 8
SOIL ASSOCIATIONS AND USE LIMITATIONS - OCRACOKE ISLAND
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
USE
Map Symbol
Soil Types
Dwellings
Street and Roads
Septic Tank
Filter Field
LIMITATIONS
#6 Carteret
very severe-
very severe-
very severe -
soils, low
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
#7 Corolla
severe -wet
severe -wet
severe -wet (1)
fine sand
#10 Dredge
severe
severe
severe (1)
spoil
#12 Duckston
very severe-
very severe-
severe -wet (1)
fine sand
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
#18 Carteret
very severe-
very severe-
very severe -
soils, high
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
#19 Carteret
very severe-
very severe-
very severe -
soils
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
flooding -wet
#21 Newhan
slight ---
slight -
slight 3 -
fine sand
#22 Newhan
---See ratings for individual soils ---
Corolla complex
(1) The sandy soils are highly pervious with questionable filtering capacities. Thus
contamination of groundwater is possible.
SOURCE: United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service.
As indicated by TABLE 8, Ocracoke is low and poorly drained.
In the absence of central sewage treatment, the poor soil
conditions will serve as a constraint to development.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -36

(5) Estuarine High Erosion Rate Areas
Hyde County has substantial estuarine waters and estuarine
shorelines. Erosion of the estuarine shoreline can pose
hazards for some waterfront development. Estuarine high
erosion rate areas have been determined by the U.S. Soil
'
Conservation Service along the Pamlico Sound and Pungo Rive .
The overall average erosion rate is approximately 3.0 feet cer
'Dss
'
year for Hyde County's estuarine shorelines. This rate of
could increase in the event of a major storm.
'
(6) Surface Water and Watersheds
Surface water in Hyde County, though nearly all brackish,
abundant. The quality generally is good and the waters are not
'
subject to acute long-term pollution. There has been conce-n
in recent years over the impact of freshwater intrusion intc
the saline -concentrated estuarine waters, mainly from surface
runoff. Most of Hyde County is in the Tar -Pamlico Rivers basin
and a much smaller portion is in the Pasquotank River basir.
See APPENDIX 2.
'
Twelve Percent
(7) Areas Where Predominant Slope Exceeds
Topography in Hyde County is very low, and there are no steep
'
slopes in excess of 12% within the County's jurisdiction.
b. Areas of Environmental Concern and Fragile Areas
'
Fragile areas are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed Dy
inappropriate. unplanned, or poorly planned development. These areas
include both Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) and other natural
'
resource fragile areas. MAP 6 delineates these areas on the Hyde
County mainland. MAP 7 delineates AECs and other fragile areas on
Ocracoke Island. The following discusses each type of areas in detail.
(1) Ocean Hazard AEC
All ocean hazard AECs are located on the ocean side of Ocracoke
Island, which is under Federal control as part of the Cape
Hatteras National Seashore.
' (2) Coastal Wetlands
The coastal wetlands are important fragile areas, particularly
on Ocracoke Island. These fragile areas are being adversely
affected by development. However, it is emphasized that try
specific locations of coastal wetlands can be determined or'y
through on -site investigation and analysis. Coastal wetlar--s -
are defined as salt marshes regularly or irregularly flooded by
tides, including wind tides, provided this shall not incluce
hurricane or tropical storm tides. This area contains some,
but not necessarily all, the ten plant species as defined in
NCAC T15A:07H.0205. The coastal wetlands are vital to the
complex food chain found in estuaries. They provide marine
nursery areas and are essential to a sound commercial fishing
WITIIIII-111-2
III-37

(3)
(4)
(5)
industry. Coastal wetlands al -so serve as barriers--against--
flood damage and control erosion between the estuary and
uplands. Approximately 10 percent of Hyde County's land area
includes coastal wetlands. The largest concentrations are
located around Bell. Rose, Deep, Deep Cove, Swan Quarter, and
Wysocking Bays.
Estuarine Waters
Estuarine waters are generally brackish waters found in coastal
estuaries and bays. Within Hyde County they include waters
located within the Pungo River, Pamlico Sound, Shoal River,
Swan Quarter/Juniper Bay, and Alligator River Outstanding
Resource Waters (ORW) areas, and the bays, rivers and creeks
leading to those waters. They are the dominant component and
bonding element of the entire estuarine system, integrating
aquatic influences from both the land and the sea. The
estuarine waters are among the most productive natural
environments of Hyde County. The waters support the valuable
commercial and sports fisheries of the coastal area which are
comprised of estuarine dependent species such as menhaden,
flounder, shrimp, crabs, and oysters.
Estuarine Shoreline AEC
Estuarine shorelines are non -ocean shorelines that are
especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or other adverse
effects of wind and water. They are intimately connected to
the estuary. The estuarine shoreline area extends from the
mean high water level or normal water level along the estu-
aries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance of 75
feet landward. This includes the shoreline of Silver Lake.
Delineation is the responsibility of the Division of Coastal
Management. For those estuarine shorelines immediately
contiguous to waters classified as outstanding resource waters,
the estuarine shoreline shall extend landward from the mean
high water level a distance of 575 feet. Development within
the estuarine shorelines influences the -quality of estuar--ine-
life and is subject to the damaging processes of shorefront
erosion and flooding.
Public Trust Areas
Public trust areas are all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the
lands thereunder from the mean high water mark to the seaward
limit of state jurisdiction; all natural bodies of water
subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the
mean high water mark; all navigable natural bodies of water and
lands thereunder to the mean high water 1ev_el or _mean: water..
level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which
the public has no right of access; all water in artificially
created bodies of water containing significant public fishing
resources or other public resources which are accessible to the
public by navigation from bodies of water in which the public
has rights of navigation; and all waters in artificially
created bodies of water in which the public has acquired rights
by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other means.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 1 I 1-38

In determining whether the public has acquired rights in
artificially created bodies of water, the following factors
'
shall be considered:
• the use of the body of water by the public:
• the length of time the public has used the area;
• the value of public resources in the body of water;
• whether the public resources in the body of water are
mobile to the extent that they can move into natural
bodies of water:
• whether the creation of the artificial body of water
required permission from the state: and
• the value of the body of water to the public for navi-
gation from one public area to another public area.
These areas are significant because the public has rights in
'
these areas, including navigation and recreation. The public
trust areas also support valuable commercial and sports
fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are important resources
for economic development.
It is impossible to map the public trust area. The areas must
'
be determined through in -field analysis and definition.
(6) Outstanding Resource Waters
'
In 1989, the North Carolina Environmental Management Commission
designated certain waters within North Carolina as Outstanding
Resource Waters (ORWs). These areas were designated because
they were considered to be significant marine resource areas
having relatively clean and pristine waters, and having
significant value as recreational and natural resource areas.
Two areas of Hyde County were designated: (1) Swan
'
Quarter/Juniper Bay, and (2) the Alligator River area. Special
development controls may be imposed in each area. These
controls include, but are not necessarily limited to,
increasing the estuarine shoreline width to 575 feet. The
following provides the management strategies for the areas:
Management Strategy for Saltwater ORW
1. At a minimum, new development will comply with the Low
Density options as specified in 2H.1003(a)(2) within 575
'
feet of the mean high water line of the designated ORW
area.
'
2. New non -discharge permits will be required to meet
reduced loading rates and increased buffer zones, to be
determined on a case -by -case basis.
be
3. No dredge or fill activities will allowed where
significant shellfish or submerged aquatic vegetation bed
resources occur except for maintenance dredging, such as
'
that required to maintain access to existing channels and
facilities located within the designated areas or
maintenance dredging for activities such as agriculture.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
I I I -39

-- -_ 4. A public hearing is mandatory for any proposed -permits to
discharge to waters classified as ORW.
(7)
No new or expanded National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) permitted discharges and no new or expanded
marinas will be allowed.
Management Strategy for the Northeast Swan Quarter Bay Area
The only type of new or expanded marinas that will be allowed
will be those marinas located in upland basin areas. The only
new or expanded NPDES permitted discharges that will be allowed
will be non -domestic, non -process industrial discharges.
Management Strategy Specific to the Alligator River
No additional restrictions will be placed on new or expanded
marinas. The only new or expanded NPDES permitted discharges
that will be allowed will be non -domestic, non -process
industrial discharges.
The above referenced ORW areas are generally delineated on
MAP 6.
404 Wetlands
404 wetlands are areas covered by water or that have water-
logged soils for long periods during the growing season.
Plants growing in wetlands are capable of living in soils
lacking oxygen for at least part of the growing season. Some
wetlands, such as swamps, are obvious. Others are sometimes
difficult to identify because they may be dry during part of
the year. Wetlands include, but are not limited to, bottom -
lands, forests, swamps, pocosins, pine savannahs, bogs,
marshes, and wet meadows. _
404 wetlands are generally agreed to exist if: (1) the vege-
tation is hydrophytic, (2) the soil is hydric, and (3) the
hydrology is wetland: i.e., inundated. Amendments to the
Federal definition of wetlands could reduce the areas afforded
protection under the wetlands legislation. Areas known as
"non-splashable" wetlands, which include pine forests, meadows,
and brushy areas where water lies just below the surface, could
be eliminated from 404 regulation. This change would increase
the areas of Hyde County which could be considered to have
development potential.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-40

• Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires that anyone inter-
ested in depositing dredged or fill material into -"waters of
the United States." including wetlands, must apply for and
receive a permit for such activities.
MAP 6 and MAP 7 show probable areas of jurisdictional wetlands
in Hyde County. These maps are provided for general planning
purposes only. Actual location of Section 404 jurisdictional
wetlands can only be determined through on -site analysis by
qualified field representatives of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers.
Wetlands are a significant natural resource because they
provide recharge areas for groundwater; serve as filter traps
for sediment, pesticides and other pollutants; provide non -
' structural flood control; buffer against shoreline erosion;
serve as buffer zones between upland activities and valuable
aquatic systems; and provide habit for numerous furbearing
animals, endangered species, and other wildlife.
' There are numerous areas of Ocracoke Island which may be 404
wetlands. All development proposals should be carefully
' coordinated with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to avoid
violation of the Clean Water Act and to preserve/protect the
environment. Many areas which appear to have been areas
' meeting the definition of 404 wetlands have been developed.
(8) Natural Resource Fragile Areas
'
Natural resource fragile areas are generally recognized to be
of educational. scientific, or cultural value because of the
natural features of the particular site. Features in these
areas serve to distinguish them from the vast majority of the
'
landscape.
In Hyde County, these areas include complex natural areas,
'
areas that sustain remnant species, pocosins, wooded swamps,
and prime wildlife habitats.
The natural resource areas cannot be accurately located on the
Areas of Environmental Concern and Other Fragile Areas maps
because of map size and scale.
'
(9) Historic and Archaeological Sites
Hyde County contains a significant number of historically and
'
archaeologically significant site and areas. See MAP 1 and
MAP 2. A county -wide survey of significant archaeological
sites has not been completed. However, the North Carolina
Division of Archives and History has identified 33 significant
'
sites on the mainland. The site locations are restricted
information, and therefore are not identified in this plan.
Development projects should be coordinated with the Division of
Archives and History to avoid destruction of the identified
sites.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I 1-41

The Division of Archives and History -recognizes over 900
properties within Hyde County which have historical and/or
architectural significance. The following provides a summary
'
of
properties which are either in, or eligible for. the
National Register of Historic Places:
1.
Lake Landing
2.
Amity Methodist Church/Lake Landing Historic District
3.
George V. Credle House and Cemetery
4.
Fairfield Historic District
'
5.
Fairfield Methodist Church/Fairfield Historic District
6.
7.
Hyde County Courthouse
The Inkwell (Octagon House)
,
8.
Lake Mattamuskeet Pumping Station
9.
Albin B. Swindell House and Store
10.
Wynne's Folly
,
Sites on the study list for inclusion on the National Register
include:
'
1.
Laura Blackwell House
2.
Hyde County Plantation District
3.
St. George's Episcopal Church
,
4. St. John's Episcopal Church
Archaeological sites and their historic significance may be a
tourist attraction if properly developed. One such site, the
'
Village of Pomeiooc has been suggested as one such attraction.
The site has yet to be determined, but evidence indicates that
the Pomeiooc Indian Reservation existed in Hyde County
'
somewhere between Engelhard and Gull Rock. The Lake
Mattamuskeet Foundation has discussed developing a Jamestown -
type settlement with exhibits and live demonstrations at or
,
near the site of the Pomeiooc Reservation. This endeavor, once
completed, could be a tourist attraction for Hyde County.
The entire Village of Ocracoke has important historic value.
'
--- The Village features a splendid array -.of coastal cottages,
large shingled structures, and the Ocracoke Lighthouse and
Keeper's Quarters. With certain exceptions, construction over
'
the past several decades has tended to conform to the archi-
tectural integrity of Ocracoke. Planning for the future devel-
opment of the area should ensure that this integrity is pre-
served and can remain the model for the entire area. A portion
'
of the Village has been designated in the National Register of
Historic Places as a Historic District. The Historic District
boundary is delineated on MAP 2 Existing Land Use - Ocracoke
'
Island. All development proposals should be carefully reviewed
to ensure compatibility with=Ocracoke's-landscape and to
provide for preservation of the historic district.
,
A county -wide archaeological survey has not been conducted in
Hyde County. However, the North Carolina Division of Archives '
and History is aware of numerous important archaeological sites
on Ocracoke Island. Site locations are restricted information
and may not be mapped for public distribution. All development '
activity on Ocracoke Island should be coordinated with the
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -42 1

7
c
Division of Archives and History in order to avoid damage to
significant archaeological sites.
(10) Maritime Forests
Maritime forests are areas containing native salt -tolerant
vegetation. Exposure to salt spray causes the vegetation to
have a sheared appearance that is shaped according to contours
of adjacent land forms. The forests contain loblolly pine,
sweet gum, live oak, and red maple as the dominant tree types.
The trees grow slowly because of very low available water
capacity, occasional salt water flooding, and exposure to salt
spray.
There are no maritime forest areas located on the Hyde County
mainland. Prior to development, there were significant
maritime forest areas on Ocracoke Island. Most of the maritime
forest areas located in the Village have now been developed.
However, Springer's Point contains an area of undisturbed
maritime forest.
(11) Other Fragile Areas
There are no ocean dunes, ocean beaches/shorelines, inlet
hazard areas, natural resource areas, complex natural areas, or
unique geologic formations located on the Hyde County mainland.
Ocean dunes and ocean beaches/shorelines and inlet hazard areas
exist on Ocracoke Island, but are under the jurisdiction and
ownership of the United States Park Service.
Areas With Resource Potential
(1) Agricultural and Forest Lands
Hyde County has extensive agricultural and forest lands. The
total land area for Hyde County is approximately 399.360 acres.
Currently, there are approximately 110,000 acres farmed. As of
1990, there were approximately 235,119 acres classified as
timberland. Both are -an important part of the natural
resources supporting Hyde County's economy.
Most soils in Hyde County may be productive for agricultural
usage if properly drained. However, 404 wetlands regulations
prohibit or severely restrict the drainage of most areas. To
the maximum extent possible, Hyde County's agricultural and
forest resources should be developed as extremely important
economic resources. State and Federal regulations should
minimize obstacles to such development. At the Federal level,
this should include exempting "non-splashable" wetlands from
404 regulatory protection.
There are no significant agricultural or forest lands in
Ocracoke Village.
WRT\9703-',Dv-2 I I I -43

(2)
Valuable Mine -'al Resources
(3)
(4)
(5)
Hyde County r'-s substantial deposits of peat. The following
excerpt from :he 1986 Hyde County Land Use Plan describes those
deposits:
Accord'ng to a document titled 1980 Annual Report on Peat
Resources in North Carolina, by Lee 0. Otte and Roy L.
Ingram. November 1980 there are two significant peat
deposits located in Hyde County. The first is known as
the Pa-iimarle Peninsula which also lies in parts of
Washing -on. Tyrrell. and Dare Counties. It is estimated
that a:oroximately 120 square miles of this deposit,
which contains about 70 million tons of moisture -free
peat. _yes in Hyde County. A second, much smaller
deposit is located in the Gull Rock Wildlife Area,
currently under state control. covering a six -square -mile
area. These two deposits encompass an estimated 80,640
acres cf land, or 126 square miles.
Most, if not 2-11, of the peat deposits are located in areas
which may be -'04 wetlands areas.
Public Forests
There are no State- or Federally -owned forestlands located in
Hyde County.
Public Parks
There are no public parks located on the Hyde County mainland.
Hyde County does not maintain any public parks in Ocracoke
Village. However, there are outdoor recreational facilities at
the Ocracoke School. The National Park Service maintains a
passive recreational area with parking on Pamlico Sound
adjacent to the Ocracoke ferry site, including a public boat
ramp. While there are no major park facilities in Hyde County.
Ocracoke is adjacent to the Cape Hatteras_ National Seashore.
However, outdoor recreational opportunities are abundant.
Public Gamelands
1
Public gamelands occupy large areas of Hyde County. These I
include:
• Alliga-or National Wildlife Refuge (in Dare and Hyde I
Counties)
• Swan Qjarter National Wildlife Refuge
• Lake Mattamuskeet National -Wildlife Refuge —
• Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge I
• Gull Rcck State Gameland
These areas a'tract tourists and are socially and environ-
mentally important to Hyde County. However, the County
generally opposes the acquisition of any additional State or
Federal gamelands which would remove additional property from
the local tax roles.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -44

' The Lake Mattamuskeet and the Swan Quarter National Wildlife
Refuge areas are particularly significant. These two areas
' offer some of the most fertile waterfowl hunting areas in North
Carolina. The numbers of hunters and fishermen attracted to
the County have a positive impact upon the local economy.
' According to the North Carolina Division of Environmental
Management, the Swan Quarter National Wildlife Refuge is a
"pristine" air quality area, making it an area to be protected
from sources of controllable air pollution from air emissions.
' One reason for pristine air quality is its National Wilderness
Designation. In addition, a portion of the Swan Quarter
National Wildlife Refuge has Outstanding Resource Waters
' designation. The pier at the Swan Quarter National Wildlife
Refuge is rapidly falling into a state of disrepair. This
facility provides unusual Pamlico Sound fishing opportunities
to residents and tourists. The North Carolina Division of
Marine Fisheries should provide financial assistance to
preserve the facility. The State should also vigorously
encourage the National Wildlife Service to maintain the
facility in a usable condition.
In addition to its wildlife management value, the Lake
' Mattamuskeet area includes the Lake Mattamuskeet Lodge and Pump
House. The facility has huge historic value and great economic
potential. There has been some discussion of East Carolina
University utilizing the facility as a branch location for
' biological research and field study.
(6) Private Wildlife Sanctuaries
' There are numerous private hurting clubs in Hyde County.
However, there are no significant private wildlife sanctuaries.
' (7) Marine Resources
Hyde County contains extensive marine resource areas. Some of
' the most important are the primary and secondary nursery areas.
These are defined by the North Carolina Division of Marine
Fisheries and are delineated on MAP-6, Areas -of -Environmental
' Concern and Other Fragile Areas. These are dispersed along the
creeks and bays entering Pamlico Sound and the Pungo and Shoal
Rivers. However, the greatest concentrations occur around
Rose, Bell, and Deep Bays, and along the eastern shore of the
Pungo River.
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality assigns water
quality classifications to all waters of the State. The
classifications are based upon the existing or contemplated
best usage of the various streams and segments of streams
' within a basin as determined through studies, evaluations; and
comments received at public hearings. The State classifies
tidal salt waters as follows:
' Class SA: shellfishing for market purposes and any other
usage specified by the "SB" and "SC"
classification:
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -45

Class SB: primary recreation and any other usage specified '
by the "SC" classification:
Class SC: fish and wildlife propagation, secondary
recreation, and other uses requiring waters of '
lower quality.
-- = --- - Areas in the Pamlico Sound and on Ocracoke. do not. rave water,
quality monitoring stations because the stations are only '
placed in proximity to point source discharges. like municipal
wastewater treatment plants and large industrial discharges.
Where no data has been provided. water quality is Presumed to '
be "supporting" its classification uses. Silver Lake is
currently classified as SC waters. The North Caro"ina Division
of Marine Fisheries has re -opened almost the entire Swan ,
Quarter Bay to shellfishing due to improvement of the water
quality.
All Hyde County waters in the Pamlico Sound, Shoal River, and '
bays and natural creeks entering them are classified SA. The
southern half of the Pungo River is classified SA. From a
dividing line extending from Woodstock Point on the west shore '
to Ocilley Point on the east shore, the northern one-half of
the Pungo River is classified SB. All of Lake Mattamuskeet and
some of the canals connecting to the sounds, rivers, and bays ,
are classified SC. Individuals should verify the canal water
classifications with the Division of Environmental Management
Water Quality. '
On Ocracoke Island, scattered subaquatic vegetation is found in
Silver Lake and along the shores of Pamlico Sound. Some major
concentrations occur in Pamlico Sound adjacent to National Park ,
Service property. All subaquatic vegetation should be
protected as an important part of Ocracoke's marine
environment. It contributes to the well-being of Pamlico '
Sound's fish and crab populations. Commercial fishing and
other marine activities are essential to Ocracoke's economy and
history. A major concern and need in Ocracoke should be -the — -
improvement and protection of water quality in Silver Lake and '
Pamlico Sound.
9. Economy
a. Introduction
Hyde County has depended heavily on its land and water resources to
support its local economy. Manufacturing and retail trade have not
- -- prospered in the overall County economy. Unlike Ocracoke. the mainland_
has not significantly benefitted from tourist -related activities.
Services and government employment have been important to the mainland
economy and have provided some stabilizing influence. TABLE 9 provides
information for employment sectors for 1980. 1990, and 1994.
F7
L
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-46

TABLE 9
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR: 1980. 1990. and 1994
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Employment Sector
1980
1990
1994
Total Employment
2.571
2,526
2,778
Wage and Salary Employment
1,847
1,724
1.981
Total Proprietors
724
802
797
Farm Proprietors
254
179
167
Non -Farm Proprietors
470
623
630
Farm Industry Employment
549
340
549
Non -Farm Industry Employment
2,022
2,186
2,453
Private Industry Employment
1.609
1,699
1.915
Agricultural Service/Forestry
Fishing/Other Employment
247
281
265
Mining Industry Employment
0
0
0
Construction Industry Employment
274
124
169
Manufacturing Industry Employment
132
246
263
Transportation and Public Utility
Employment
15
61
67
Wholesale Trade Employment
188
147
152
Retail Trade Employment
329
333
433
Finance/Insurance/Real Estate
Employment
151
186
132
Service Industry Employment
273
321
434
Government Employment e
413
487
538
Federal Civilian Government
Employment
23
26
48
Military Employment
46
42
41
State/Local Government Employment
344
419
449
SOURCE: LINC, Office of State Planning. State Data Center.
:_The: County-'-s -average unemployment rate for 1996 was 10.52%:-- The=County's rate
is normally above the State average. However, this is typical of coastal
counties having high numbers of seasonally employed people. Total employment
figures (in thousands) and total earnings (in millions. 1987 dollars) are
presented in TABLE 10. which follows, and discussed below. Annual swings in
employment will continue to occur as a result of fluctuations in the agricul-
tural and commercial fishing industries. Income and sales figures for the
mainland alone would be significantly lower if Ocracoke data was isolated from
the figures.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -47

TABLE 10
TOTAL EMPLOYMENT AND TOTAL EARNINGS: 1970. 1980. 1990, AND 1993
HYDF COUNTY_ NORTH CAROLINA
1970
1980
1990
1993
Total Employment (thousands)
2.21
2.57
2.53
2.65
Farm
0.85
0.55
0.34
0.29
Agricultural Services, Other
0.11
0.25
0.28
0.23
Mining
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
Construction
0.03
0.27
0.12
0.16
Manufacturing
0.17
0.13
0.25
0.32
Transport, Comm. and Public Util.
0.02
0.01
0.06
0.05
Wholesale Trade
0.09
0.19
0.15
0.15
Retail= -Trade
0.23
0.33
0.33
0.40
Finance, Ins. & Real Estate
0.05
0.15
0.19
0.12
Services
0.39
0.27
0.32
0.41
Federal Civilian Government
0.03
0.02
0.03
0.05
Federal Military Government
0.04
0.05
0.04
0.04
State and Local Government
0.21
0.34
0.42
0.44
Total Earnings (Millions 1987 $)
30.08
29.61
40.08
39.22
Farm Earnings
7.61
2.89
13.74
11.95
Agricultural Services, Other
0.74
2.33
2.38
1.72
Mining
0.01
0.06
0.00
0.00
Construction -
0.51
--4.20
1.80
2.05
Manufacturing
1.51
0.99
2.98
3.38
Transport, Comm. & Public Util.
1.43
0.81
0.58
0.62
Wholesale Trade
1.74
3.20
2.17
2.23
Retail Trade
3.08
3.12
3.22
3.75
Finance, Ins. & Real Estate
0.74
2.13
2.60
1.61
Services
8.32
3.96
2.31
3.33
Federal Civilian Government
0.47
0.38
0.51
0.84
Federal Military Government
0.35
0.59
0.46
0.46
State and Local Government
3.58
4.94
7.34
7.27
SOURCE: U.S. Department of Commerce.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -48

17
From 1970 to 1993. farm earnings increased and the greatest gains in
non -farm earnings were in construction, real estate; and manufacturing.
The increase in construction and real estate earnings is related to the
development which has been occurring on Ocracoke. A significant
increase occurred in government employment, both in earnings and
absolute numbers. This growth is indicative of the importance of the
government employment sector of Hyde County's economy. In addition,
the County continues to rely heavily on its natural resources to
support the agricultural services, other category of employment.
Both services and transportation, communication, and public utilities
experienced declines in earnings and absolute employment. The decline
in services, which includes service to the agricultural industry, is
believed to be a result of the decreasing number of farms and
decreasing holdings of private forest/timberlands. The decline in
public utilities reflects the lack of population growth and increased
automation in the industry.
Actual farm employment decreased from 1970 to 1993. This trend is the
result -of the growth of large corporate_ farms and increasing
mechanization. The number of small family farms has declined since
1970. Overall, non -farm employment has increased. Most of the non-
farm growth has occurred in Ocracoke, further emphasizing the disparity
between the mainland and Ocracoke economies.
The greatest non -farm mainland employment growth has occurred in the
' government category. Gains in construction and finance, insurance and
real estate reflect activity on Ocracoke. State and local employment
lead the government employment increase. Manufacturing showed small
actual gains. However, stable manufacturing employment continues to be
a critical Hyde County mainland need.
' Employment gains in both wholesale and retail trade have occurred
during the period between 1970 to 1993 with most of the retail growth
occurring on Ocracoke.
' In 1970, the top three employment categories were: (1) farming,
(2) services, and (3) retail trade. By 1993. government employment
was in the top position, followed -by -serve industry=employment--and --
retail trade employment.
The economy of Ocracoke is overwhelmingly dependent on tourism, and to
a lesser extent commercial fishing. Little specific economic data is
available for Ocracoke Village because it is not an incorporated town.
Most of the available data is for Hyde County. There are no
agricultural or manufacturing industries on the island.
The 1986 Land Use Plan identified 42 commercial establishments on
Ocracoke Island. By 1991 the number had increased to 78. As of 1997.
there were approximately 100 such establishments; over 70-of which were
members of the Ocracoke Civic and Business Association.
Historically, about one-third of the employed Ocracoke residents are
' government workers. Government sector employment adds some stability
to the economy which is generally very seasonal in nature due to its
reliance on tourism. The seasonal nature of the economy is reflected
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -49

-1
in the fact that many of the commercial establishments are closed
during the off-season. '
Secondary employment is extremely important to the Ocracoke residents.
The majority of the local population maintains two or more sources of ,
income. Those sources include commercial fishing, tourist service
activities, cottage industries including crafts and nondurable goods
such as hammocks and nets, and construction work. Multiple sources of
income will continue --to be essential to a strong Ocracoke economy.
About 1,129 or 21% of the County's 5,380 residents in 1989 received
public assistance. See TABLE 11. ,
TABLE 11
PERSONS IN HOUSEHOLDS BY PUBLIC ASSISTANCE INCOME 1989 ,
(Universe: Persons in Households)
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
With Public
Assistance
Persons
0 - 14 age group
278
15 - 64 age group
601
65 + age group
250
No Public Assistance
Persons
0 - 14 age group
836
15 - 64 age group
2.766
65 + age group
649
SOURCE: Census of Population and Housing, Summary Tape File 3A.
With respect to poverty status in Hyde County, TABLE 12 shows that 24%
of the 1989 population lived below the poverty level.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-50
F_

TABLE 12
POVERTY STATUS IN 1989 BY SEX AND AGE
HYDE COUNTY. NORTH CAROLINA
ABOVE POVERTY
BELOW POVERTY
AGE
MALE
FEMALE
TOTAL
MALE
X
FEMALE
%
TOTAL
X
- 0 - 4
102"
113-
215
39•
- 27.7
52
31.5
91
29.7 _
5
33
31
64
4
10.8
8
20.5
12
15.8
6 - 11
117
122
239
106
47.5
66
35.1
172
41.8
12 - 17
158
173
331
135
46.1
72
29.4
207
38.5
18 - 24
Detail by sex-
not.available
See 18 - 64
below
306
Detail by sex not available
=-
See 18 - 64 below
112
26.8
25 - 34
665
154
18.8
35`=_.44
-618
136
18.0 -
45 - 54
504
59
10.5
55 - 59
227
69
23.3
60 - 64
200
59
22.8
65 - 74
159
233
392
19
10.7
86
27.0
105
21.1
75+
134
163
297
11
7.6
94
36.6
105
26.1
"�"...,n>C�m;,�''2`:.-T,<^.>a"+,
`_,
284
40.9
198 31.1
k
482
36.2
0 - 17
410
439
849
18 - 64
1282
1238
2520
226
15.0
363
22.7
589
18.9
65+
293
396
689
30
9.3
180
31.3
210
23.4
TOTAL
1 1985
2073
4058
540
21.4
741
2E
1281
24.0
SOURCE: Census of Population and Housing. Summary Tape File 3A.
TABLE 13, which follows. summarizes Hyde County income figures for
1970, 1980, and 1990.
It should be noted that the total Hyde County income figures are skewed
slightly upward because they include the relatively higher Ocracoke
income figures. This would understate the actual disparity that exists
between Ocracoke and the mainland portion of Hyde County. The median
family. median household. and per capita incomes for the residents of
Hyde' County' -in 1990 were $19.929, $17.665, and $9.434 respectively: -'
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-51

TABLE 13
INCOME PROFILE: 1970, 1980. AND 1990
HYDE COUNTY. NORTH CAROLINA
1970
1980
1990
Total Families
1,363
1,592
1,572
Family Income less than $5,000
775
_ 308
117
Family Income $5,000-$9.900
457
413
174
Family Income $10,000-$14,900
74
322
177
Family Income $15,000424,900
36
368
475
Family Income $25,000-$49,900
7
154
438
Family Income $50,000
14
27
191
Median Family_- Income _
4,478
11,053
19,929
Mean Family Income
6,177
13,401
27.850
Mean Income White Families
7,240
15,113
33,390
Mean Income Black Families
3,998
9,528
15,508
Median Household Income
0
9,736
17,665
Per Capita Income
1,642
4,295
9.434
SOURCE: North Carolina, Office of State Planning, State Data Center.
b. Tourism and Recreation
The Hyde County mainland has abundant shoreline resources. However,
these resources have not been effectively developed or marketed as a
stimulant for tourism. Recreational fishing has also declined in '
recent years, resulting in a decrease in fishing generated tourism.
These -declines in activity are reflected -in -the -decrease in --employment
and earnings in the services category. A lack of goods and services '
will continue to deter the development of mainland tourism. The
following excerpt from the Hyde County, Engelhard, Swan Quarter, and
Ocracoke Shoreline Economic Development Study highlights some of the
obstacles to the development of a mainland based tourist industry: '
Community appearance and diversification of goods and services are
critical to the growth and development of Hyde County. There is a
widespread belief in the potential of tourism on the mainland.
While there are opportunities, the lack of good restaurants,
grocery stores, and lodging accommodat-ions are a serious hindrance. '
While local owners do not possess funds for large-scale
improvements, amenities such as cleanliness and exterior/interior
aesthetic improvements could go a long way toward improving the '
community's reputation and attraction to tourists.
As discussed, Ocracoke Island draws thousands of tourists annually.
F
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -52
17

c. Agriculture. Forestry, and Fishing
7
L
U
Farm earnings have shown overall gains since 1970. Total farm
employment peaked in 1970 and has since declined. The total acres of
harvested cropland in Hyde County in 1992 was 77.146 acres. The
agricultural industry is important to the overall County economy. An
important portion of the wholesale trade industry is dependent on
farming activities. The continued and substantial increase of total
personal farm income indicates that sales of produce and Federal
subsidies from cropland (unharvested and harvested) are an important
source of Hyde County's total revenue.
The primary farm production in Hyde County consists of corn (4,445,412
bushels in 1992) soybeans (1,306.162 bushels in 1992) and wheat for
grain (992,495 bushels in 1992).
According to the North Carolina Division of Water Quality, as of August
1996, twenty-two (22) registered or certified confined animal
operations (swine) were operating in Hyde County. The total combined
-- - — design capacity for these operations was 7.976 animals. There -was one____-.
confined animal operation (cattle) registered in Hyde County with a
design capacity of 200 head. See APPENDIX 3.
Hyde County's percentage of the State total for both pounds of fish
caught and dollar value rose steadily from 1981 to 1996. As this trend
continues, it is indicative of Hyde County's increasing importance to
North Carolina's total commercial fishing industry. In 1996, Hyde
County accounted for 7.81% of the total poundage of the North Carolina
commercial fishing landings and 9.18% of the value of the State's
catch.
Shellfish continues to lead the County's commercial fishing industry in
both pounds and value. Both categories showed annual gains for almost
every year from 1980 to 1996.
d. Manufacturing
WRT\9703-NOV-2
As of 1993. the ten largest private employers in Hyde County were:
Name
Bardo Corporation
Captain Ben's Restaurant, Inc.
Cross Creek Healthcare
Engelhard Shrimp
Fairfield Sales Corp.
Goodtimes. Inc.
Mattamuskeet Fresh Produce, Inc.
Mattamuskeet Seafood. Inc.
The East Carolina Bank
Tunnell Farms. Inc.
Only two manufacturing
Swan Quarter Crab) are
Directory.
Industry Type
Manufacturing
Retail Trade
Services
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Manufacturing
Wholesale Trade
Manufacturing
Fin „ Ins.& Real Estate
Agriculture, For.& Fish.
firms (Engelhard Shrimp. Fish, and Oyster and
listed in the 1996 North Carolina Manufacturer's
III-53

e. Real Estate and Construction The majority of the real estate and construction activity in Hyde
County has occurred on Ocracoke. There is not sufficient mainland
population to support a market for significant speculative residential
construction.
f. Wholesale and Retail Trade and Services
The following table profiles County trade in 1992.
TABLE 14
RETAIL TRADE PROFILE: 1992
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
HYDE COUNTY, NC
NO. OF
ESTABLISHMENTS
SALES ($1,000)
NO. OF
EMPLOYEES
Retail Trade
55
25,809
290
Building Material and Garden Supplies
2
(D)
0-19
General Merchandise Stores
4
(D)
20 - 99
Food Stores
13
8,518
64
Automotive Dealers
4
(D)
20 - 99
Gasoline Service Stations
5
1,514
17
Apparel and Accessory Stores
2
(D)
0 - 19
Furniture and Home Furnishing
1
(D)
0 - 19
Eating and Drinking Places
17
4,020
110
Drug and Proprietary Stores
1
(D)
0 - 19
Miscellaneous Retail Stores
6
1,627
25
(D) Withheld to avoid disclosing data for individual firms
SOURCE: .-economic Census, Retail Trade.
g. Government Employment
Of the 2.778 persons employed in Hyde County in 1994, 538 (over 19%)
were employed by government. The rise in numbers of government
employees is shown on TABLE 15.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -54

TABLE 15
EMPLOYMENT BY SECTOR GOVERNMENT
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
1980
1990
1994
Government Employment
413
487
538
Federal Civilian Government Employment
23
26
48
Military Employment
46
42
41
State/Local Government Employment
344
419
449
SOURCE: Economic Census, Retail Trade.
C. Hyde County Tomorrow
1. Introduction
It is anticipated that future.demands-during..the-planning period will
be adequately met by the County or through State and Federal programs
administered by their respective agencies. The County intends to re-
double efforts to promote itself, so as to attract businesses and
environmentally compatible light industry. But it must be cognizant of
the fact that any growth that may occur — whether residential,
commercial, or industrial — must occur within the limitations discussed
in this Update.
2. People
Recent trends in Hyde County's population growth and housing
characteristics are useful in projecting growth and housing
characteristics in the County throughout the planning periods. They
offer, however, only a piece of the forecast. Trends do not take into
account major developments that may occur, for example, the
construction of a prison facility in Hyde County in 1996-97. and the
subsequent addition of more than 525 inmates. TABLE 16, which follows,
uses -trends to project a continued decline 1n Oounty_population,
TABLE 16
HISTORICAL POPULATION AND POPULATION PROJECTIONS:
1970-2020
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2020
5,571
5.700
5,873
5.834
5,411
5,211
4,921
1 4.781
1 4,607
1 4.308
SOURCE: LINC, Office of State Planning, State Data Center. 1970,1980. and 1990 figures
from Official Census Figures. 1975.1985, and 1995 figures from estimates based
on births, deaths, and net migration. 2000 to 2020 figures from projections
based on trend analysis.
However, population projections for Hyde County by Woods & Poole. Inc. -
supplied by the NC Division of Coastal Management for use in this
update - project a different future with respect to population growth
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -55

- _ in Hyde County. Woods & Poole projects a leveling -off of the County=s =
population in 1996 at 5,350 and then slight, but steady growth ,
thereafter: 5,370 persons in 1997: 5,380 persons by 2000; 5,420 persons
by 2005: and 5,450 persons by 2010.
Population on the mainland is expected to remain constant. State '
construction of a major prison facility in the County, and the
subsequent addition of more than 525 (527 as of November 1, 1997)
- - inmates included as County population should keep the County population '
at about 5,500 through the planning period. Ocracoke Island's
population will remain constant or grow slightly.
The projected growth in the white population and; decline in non -white '
population through 2007 continues the trend of the previous decade.
Since absolute population is expected to remain constant or decline '
slightly, shifts in racial composition may reflect significant out -
migration of non -whites and in -migration of whites.;
Projected seasonal population figures in Hyde County will be impacted
most significantly by the level of activity on Ocracoke Island. The- --
mainland population is primarily stable year-round. Seasonal changes
on Ocracoke have only incidental effects on the mainland, primarily an
increase in traffic and ferry use. However, this has resulted in
,
little benefit to mainland businesses.
It is expected that the past trend of decline in household size in the
'
County will continue. The current need for adequate affordable housing
in Hyde County will continue through the decade.
Tourist visits to Ocracoke will continue to have a great impact on land
'
use issues during the planning period. Tension already exists between
developers and residents of the Village who feel that development is
destroying the very aspects which make Ocracoke attractive and unique.
'
The N.C. State Data Center does not prepare population projections for
unincorporated areas. Projections for Ocracoke Island's population
'
must be based on documented growth trends and local observations.
The year-round population of Ocracoke Village experienced a slight — — —
—
growth rate of less than one percent annually between 1980 and 1990.
This trend is expected to continue through 2007. The 1997 population
is estimated at 790 persons, and the 2007 population is projected to
reach 900. It should be noted that these figures are for the year-
'
round population. An observer on the Island may get the impression
that development is occurring at a much faster pace. Much of this
development is for seasonal housing units and commercial
establishments. Due to the rapidly increasing price of developable
'
land in the Village, many prospective year-round residents are being
- = priced -out of the housing market by higher income retirees and
investors. Also, increasing opposition to further development by
Village residents should act as a braking mechanism and restrict
development to levels comparable to the 1980-90 rate.
,
It is anticipated that the composition of Ocracoke Island's permanent
population will continue to display the trends exhibited thus far in
the 1990s. The racial composition should remain almost entirely
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -56

white, and the female population will continue to grow slightly faster
than the male population. The population will also continue to age
throughout the next ten years, with a significant increase in the
number of retirees, slight increases in the number of school -age
children, and a continuing decline in the percentage of the population
aged 19-34. These trends will result in a relatively stable demand for
school classroom space, and increased demand for geriatric -related
services and home -related services such as landscaping, housekeeping
and home maintenance services.
The projected peak seasonal population in 2007 is 8.500 for Ocracoke
Island. The total projected peak population in 2007 is 9,400 persons.
In all probability, factors such as soils restrictions and local
opposition to development that are projected to'limit permanent
population growth on the island during the next decade will also slow
down seasonal population growth.
Since the population analysis above indicated that Ocracoke's seasonal
population is expected to grow much faster than the year-round
population until 2007. the development rate for seasonal private
housing units is expected to be much higher than the development rate
for year-round housing units over the same period.
3. Land Need
There are two redevelopment issues facing Hyde County on Ocracoke. The
' first is reconstruction following damage resulting from a major storm.
This issue is addressed in the post -disaster reconstruction policies
section of this plan. Any post -disaster reconstruction effort must
recognize the need to preserve Ocracoke's historic properties and
landscape. Therefore, the post -disaster plan provides for the
implementation of a construction moratorium on the island.
The second major redevelopment issue facing the County on Ocracoke is the
demolition of existing structures to allow for construction of new
structures at higher densities. While the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance has helped regulate such activity, increasing land values will
add pressure for clearance and redevelopment. Extensive new construction
would ruin the historic/architectural significance of the vi'H age. The --
attendant increase in density would mean more traffic, roads, and septic
system failures. Demands for police, fire, medical, utilities and other
services would increase. In short, there would be a major adverse impact
on Ocracoke's life style.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-57

4. Utilities and Services
System
,
a. Water
It is anticipated that the existing water supply system and planned
improvements thereto will adequately meet the demands of the Hyde
'
County mainland through the planning period. The mainland water system
has two immediate needs that should be addressed in the near term. A
--- ground storage tank to hold 500,000 gallons is needed at Ponzer. A-
water plant, capable of producing 500,000 gallons in needed at
Engelhard. Hyde County will update its mainland water supply plan in
1998.
'
The water facilities of the Ocracoke Sanitary District and planned
improvements thereto will adequately meet projected water needs.
,
w The Ocracoke Sanitary District will update its water supply plan in
1998. They anticipate several extension projects to occur in the near
future. These include Oyster Creek, Harbor Cove, and an area behind
'
the community center. Currently, there are 991 metered customers on
the Ocracoke Sanitary District system. System officials say that 75
more meters are scheduled to be put in and that 3 additional meters are
available if needed. Once these additions are made, a total of 1,069
meters will be active.
Future projects with respect to the Ocracoke Sanitary District system
include:
• replacing the roof at the District's office:
• upgrading the well (Well #1) at the office to give 600 gpm:
'
• upgrade the four reverse osmosis plants to give more savable water:
and,
• replace the two 25,000 gallon storage tanks.
'
b. Sewer System
(1989) first
'
The Hyde County Shoreline Economic Development Study gave
priority to installation of a sewer system for Swan Quarter and
Enge-Thard. While there is no centralized collection and disposal
system for Hyde County, facultative lagoon with a spray irrigation
'
.._ system is under design to serve the Engelhard area. _
Wastewater treatment and disposal will continue to be an issue in
'
Ocracoke. The policies contained in this plan support continued
reliance on septic tanks for sewage treatment with appropriate low
density development. This would be strong justification for a local
land use control ordinance which will control both density and location
,
of land uses. It is believed that public sewage would stimulate high
density development. Such development would overload the island's
capacity for dealing with storm water runoff and other urban related
'
issues which could adversely affect the environment.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I -58

�7
0
c. Solid Waste
Hyde County will continue to operate its convenience sites during the
planning period. All waste at the sites will either be sold as
recyclable goods or transported to landfills in Dare. Beaufort, and
Bertie Counties. Hyde County is included in the Albemarle Regional
Solid Waste Management Plan.
Solid waste disposal is a critical Ocracoke problem. While Dare County
currently - provides service, there are no guarantees for long -range -
collection of Ocracoke waste. Hyde County may be forced to pursue
options for the independent disposal of waste. In addition, the.
County's recycling program must be supported by Ocracoke residents to
reduce the volume of disposable waste which is being generated. If
Dare County declined to continue to accept Ocracoke solid waste, Hyde
County would be faced with a critical problem. A comprehensive plan
for the disposal of Ocracoke solid waste should be developed which will
define options available for waste reduction and disposal.
d. Public Schools
The public schools on mainland Hyde County, with the ongoing
construction previously noted, are adequate to meet expected demand
during the planning period.
The Hyde County Shoreline Economic Development Study recommended
application to the North Carolina College System and the North Carolina
Agricultural Extension Service to investigate the need for and options
available to establish in -county post -high school technical training.
In addition, investigation by the County of viable uses for the Lodge
at Lake Mattamuskeet (currently owned by U.S.. Department of the
Interior) is recommended. Users might include East Carolina University
and/or other educational outreach programs.
The Ocracoke School is not at capacity. Population forecasts during
the planning period do not indicate any significant change in the
school age population. Other than routine maintenance, major
improvements to the educational facilities are not anticipated.
e. Recreational Facilities
Hyde County needs a county -wide parks and recreation program and should
develop a county -wide comprehensive recreational plan. The plan should
emphasize recreational facilities and shoreline access needs. Emphasis
should be placed on a ballfield, community center, and youth -oriented
programs. The County supports the State's shoreline access program and
reserves the right to comment on the need for public shoreline access
facilities on Ocracoke Island on a case -by -case basis. Because of the
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, extensive outdoor recreational
opportunities exist.
f. Public Safety
' There are no plans for expansion of the existing Sheriff's Department,
Highway Patrol, volunteer fire departments, rescue squad, or Health
Department. These departments are expected to be adequate during the
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III-59

period if existing equipment and personnel levels are maintained.
As development, population, and tourism increase, Hyde County may need ,
to consider:
• expanded health care facilities with full-time medical care, to '
include a dentist:
• emergency helicopter service: and
• community center building.
g. Health Care ,
It is anticipated that the demand for outpatient substance abuse '
services and facilities for the developmentally disabled will continue
during the planning period.
Health care for the elderly has been a major Hyde County problem. '
Construction of the 80-bed Cross -Creek Healthcare facility in Swan
Quarter has eliminated this deficiency. In addition, the facility has
created 46 jobs and become a major Hyde County employer. '
h. Storm Drainage
The provision of adequate storm drainage on Ocracoke Island should be ,
addressed. Every time an impervious surface is constructed, the island
loses some of its capacity to retain stormwater runoff. Increasing
amounts of fresh water are being dumped into sensitive estuarine salt '
waters. A comprehensive stormwater management plan should be developed
for Ocracoke and implemented and enforced with a stormwater management
ordinance. Funding through the Division of Coastal Management should '
be sought.
5. Transportation System
a. Vehicular Movement ,
The existing road system in Hyde County and planned improvements are
scheduled in the 1996 NC Department of Transportation "Transportation
'
Improvement Program" expected to adequately handle traffic through the
- planning period. See EXHIBIT 2, pages III-21 and III-22.
,
The increase in ferry passengers over the past several years is a clear
indication of the increasing traffic and transportation demands which
are being placed on Ocracoke Island. A comprehensive transportation
plan is required for Ocracoke which, at a minimum, will address the
,
following:
• Alternate routes to Silver Lake Road for ferry traffic passing
'
through Ocracoke.
• Off-street parking in the Silver Lake area.
,
• An alternate location for the mainland terminal of the Hyde
mainland -Ocracoke ferry route.
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I I I - 60

'0 The possible addition of "high-speed" pedestrian ferry service.
'0 Options to the present Oregon Inlet Bridge.
• The impact on Ocracoke of increased or decreased ferry service.
' Long-range preservation of Highway 12 north of Ocracoke.
• The dedication and improvement of non-public roads in Ocracoke.
Care must be taken in some locations--not-to destroy the -Village's+
historic landscape.
'0 Improvement of the Ocracoke Airport.
• Establishment of a bus shuttle service between Ocracoke Village and
the ocean beach areas.
' While Ocracoke remains a small village, the transportation issues
facing its residents are complex. A comprehensive approach to
' transportation planning is a critical -need._
b. Ferry Service
Existing ferry service is adequate to meet current demands of mainland
Hyde County.
' Relocation of the ferry terminal from Swan Quarter to Outfall Canal at
East Bluff Bay would shorten crossing time, decrease operating
expenses, and probably increase ferry use. Relocation may decrease
' tourism potential in Swan Quarter. The feasibility of high-speed daily
or pedestrian ferry service should be considered. This service, if run
from Swan Quarter, would not only increase tourist and labor
accessibility to Ocracoke, but could support mainland tourist activity
' as well.
c. Navigable Waters
Existing navigable waters in Hyde County are expected to be maintained
- -- - through the planning period. It -is- suggested-that-the=-C-oanty conduct a -
needs assessment study and construction plan for public boat access.
' Also, relocation of the Swan Quarter ferry terminal to the Outfall
Canal location should be pursued. Recommendations made in the HY(k
County Shoreline Economic Development Study for navigable waters
' include the following:
• Sites identified cooperatively through the Coastal Initiatives
' program by Hyde County as secure/safe anchorages along the County's
shorelines should be added to the State Boating Map and identified
by Coast Guard channel markers.
• Possible establishment of no -wake zones along canals as approved by
the North Carolina Wildlife Commission.
• Construction of a launching ramp for small boats at Swan Quarter
Bay, and promotion of the Bay as a lightweight sailboat and wind
surfing site.
'
WR \9 T 703-NOV-2 III-61

Development of a shoreline access site at Engelhard maintenance and - -
dredging of Far Creek Channel with assistance from the Department '
of Commerce.
• Upgrade and expand existing marina facilities. '
d. Airport
There are no improvements or expansions proposed for the Hyde County t
general aviation airport east of Engelhard.
6. Housing and Accommodations '
The Hyde County mainland's greatest continuing redevelopment issue will be
the preservation and renovation of housing for its low -to -moderate income ,
families and individuals. As previously stated, the County's housing stock
is aging. New housing is not being constructed at a rate sufficient,to
replenish those units which are being lost due to age and declining
condition. The County should support residential development. In this ,
regard, the County should:
• support applications for North Carolina Community Development housing
rehabilitation funds.
'
• support applications for North Carolina Housing Finance Agency home
improvement funds.
'
• enforce the minimum housing code to ensure removal of vacant
dilapidated dwelling units.
'
Commercial development and redevelopment is a significant mainland need.
The Hyde County Shoreline Economic Development Study. 1989. discussed these
needs in detail. The major concerns may be summarized as follows:
'
• Redevelopment of the Engelhard and Swan Quarter harbors is crucial to
the economic well-being of the communities.
The ditches/canals around the County.'s.developed areas. should be
_.
cleared of debris, in particular, sunken vessels.
'
• The Lake Mattamuskeet Lodge should be redeveloped for an economically
productive purpose.
,
The relocation of the Swan Quarter ferry terminal to the Outfall Canal
location is considered a major need. This project would serve as a boost
to tourism and have an overall positive impact on the Hyde County economy.
,
In order to support commercial redevelopment, the County should seek State
and Federal assistance: Such assistance may include, but not be limited
to, Community Development Economic Development funds.
'
A third area of concern will be redevelopment of areas following a
hurricane or other natural disaster. The specifics of such redevelopment
,
are dealt with in the Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post -Disaster
Reconstruction Plan. However, Hyde County will support the reconstruction
WRT\9703-NOV-2
III-62

the mainland of any properties destroyed by natural disaster, when
construction is consistent with applicable Hyde County mainland ordinances. - '-
7. Economy
a. Introduction
During the planning period, it is anticipated that more emphasis and
energy will be devoted toward analyzing and addressing the County's
needs -with- respect to the recruitment and retention of commercial and _-
industrial development. In the short term at least, and perhaps
throughout the planning period, the County will continue.to rely on
agriculture -related pursuits and government employment as the
predominant in -county sources of livelihood and will continue to export
workers to neighboring localities.
Through the year 2007. employment in construction, real estate, and
retail trade show high growth rates. This will probably result from
activity on Ocracoke rather than mainland growth. The mainland will
- continue its dependence on employment in State and local government and
agricultural services, forestry and fishing sectors. The County will
continue to rely heavily on its natural resources through the year
2007. especially the fishing industry. The decline in employment in
the farming industry in 1970-1993 is expected to continue. There will
be further reduction of family -held farms and increased mechanization
on large tract farms.
It is extremely difficult and beyond the scope.of this update to
provide dependable forecasts of economic activity for Ocracoke.
Detailed economic and employment data does not exist for the Island.
Because Ocracoke is not incorporated or recognized as a unit in the
census, detailed data is not available. Information must be
extrapolated from county -wide data.
Through the planning period, total full-time employment should
increase. Commercial fishing, services, construction, retail trade,
and nondurable goods will continue to be the major employers. However.
it is believed that the service employment category will increase.
-_---- These --categories -reflect the commun-ity's dependence on tourism and _ -
resort/recreation stimulated development.
IWRT\9703-NOV-2
The following summarizes the factors which will affect the Ocracoke
economy during the planning period:
• Most Ocracoke residents will continue to have multiple sources of
income, with many relying on commercial fishing and tourist -related
services to supplement primary sources of income.
• Increasing land values will serve as a stimulus for high density
development. -
• A rapidly expanding base of businesses will increase the demand for
government services. Solid waste disposal and the overall
management of sewage disposal will demand detailed attention from
the County.
III-63

• "Cottage" industries will continue to be an important element of '
the Ocracoke economy. This will be important to sustaining the
overall historical significance and fishing village atmosphere of
Ocracoke.
• Commercial fishing will continue to be vital to Ocracoke residents ,
and must be protected from increasing development pressures.
• Increasing property values are resulting in rapidly increasing tax '
values. This is having a serious negative impact on the ability of
long-time Ocracoke residents to pay the taxes and retain property.
It is believed that this may be a major reason for the decline in I
the 19-34 and 55-64 age groups. i.
• As economic activity increases, the provision of labor is becoming ,
more difficult. Service businesses with high labor demand are
finding it, difficult to obtain a sufficient number of employees.
It would help if the mainland labor base could be tapped. However,
improved ferry service, to include the possibility of a "high- '
'speed" pedestrian ferry, would have to be secured.
• Ocracoke is increasingly dependent upon ferry service for tourist
'
accessibility. The possibility of shortening the Ocracoke -mainland
route should be pursued. However, it is emphasized that increased
accessibility will stimulate more tourist activity which will lead
to greater demands for governmental services.
,
• Increased economic activity will make the protection of natural
resources more difficult.
'
b. Tourism and Recreation
The projected growth of seasonal population in Hyde County will occur
r
on Ocracoke and will have little impact on the mainland. However, the
increase in tourist traffic to the island provides the county with an
opportunity to increase both earnings and employment on the mainland.
,
As discussed previously, the County's abundant shoreline resources
could be developed or marketed as a stimulant for tourism. Relocation
_ of the Swan Quarter ferry terminal to the Outfall Canal location should
'
serve as a stimulus for mainland tourist activity.
c. Agriculture, Forestry, and Fishing
'
The increase in large corporate farms and decrease in family -owned
farms will cause continued decline in the agricultural industry. The
projected increase in farm earnings depends in part on the continuation
'
of Federal farm subsidies and on continued demand for and production of
soybeans, corn, and wheat. Any decrease in Federal farm subsidies
during the next decade would adversely affect the .local economy.
'
The importance of Hyde County's fishing industry is expected to
continue. The fishing industry will continue to flourish only if water
quality is maintained. Protection of the County's surface waters is
'
imperative for economic reasons, since the fishing industry is still
directly or indirectly responsible for a large percentage of jobs in
the County.
,
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -64 1

d. Manufacturing
The lack of manufacturing industry in Hyde County is expected to
continue in the short term but manufacturing employment and earnings
are expected to increase overall by the end of the planning period. A
projected decrease in the 18-34 age group over the next decade will
diminish the work force unless expected economic development spurs an
in -migration. The lack of adequate affordable housing, public
' facilities, and adequate educational opportunities may discourage
manufacturing industries from locating in Hyde County. However, the
County continues to solicit industrial development and has had several
' inquiries.
e. Real Estate and Construction
' Through the year 2007, employment in real estate and construction
should stabilize. The construction of the State prison facility and
renovation of the Lake Mattamuskeet Lodge should serve as major
stimulus to mainland construction activity. Stabilization of the
mainland population will create only minimal need for new housing.
However, it is expected that there will be demands for renovation and
repair of the existing housing stock. Much of this stock is
substandard and/or over 40 years old.
f. Wholesale and Retail Trade and Services
-Wholesale trade, retail trade, and services are projected to hold their
strong positions with respect to other employment sectors through 2007.
' The position of retail trade and its high employment figures will
continue to reflect activity on Ocracoke Island. Services employment
is expected to continue to. remain constant through 2007, reflecting a
stabilized demand for services by both small farms and other industries
' on the mainland.
g. Government Employment
Mainland Hyde County is expected to continue its strong dependence on
State and local government employment as a source of jobs and earnings
through 2007. This employment is supported by State and local taxes.
Deficits in the North Carolina State budget could lead to multiple wage
and job cuts in the State. In addition, Federal purchases of privately
held land cuts County tax revenues. The County economy relies heavily
' on government for employment and earnings. State and local government
employment in the County will continue to be vulnerable to these
trends.
h. Cross Creek Healthcare, Inc.
' Hyde County was awarded a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for
the installation of a long-term health care facility within two miles
of Swan Quarter. The 80-bed facility is operated by Cross Creek
Healthcare, Inc. The facility has approximately 46 full-time
positions. Construction of the Cross Creek facility and supporting
infrastructure increased demand for construction employment for the
short term. The facility and its employees create an increased demand
' WRT\9703-NOV-2 III - 65

i
for services and goods in Hyde County, thus creating a secondary
positive impact on the local economy.
North Carolina Department of Corrections
This facility currently employees 227 persons and houses about 520
inmates. About 115 of the facilities' employees live in Hyde County.
Increased inmate population will require additional staff. The spin-
off service related benefits of this facility, with respect to jobs --
created and money spent in Hyde County, will increase during the
planning period.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 III -66

C
IV. LAND USE ISSUES,
BACKGROUND, POLICIES, AND
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
I
u

F
n
IV. LAND USE ISSUES. BACKGROUND. POLICIES. AND IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
A. Introduction
This section provides policies designed to address growth management and
protect the County's assets. The policy statements address the desires
and objectives of the citizens of Hyde County and respond to the policy
statement requirements of the Coastal Resources Commission.
- The policy statements are extremely important and have a day-to-day
impact on businesses and citizens of the County. The statements impact:
— CAMA minor and major permitting (required prior to undertaking any
development in any area of environmental concern);
establishment of local planning policy; and
— review of proposed projects requiring State or Federal assistance
or approval to determine consistency with local policies.
For the issuance of CAMA permits within areas of environmental concern,
the State defines minimum acceptable use standards. A local unit of
government must adopt policies which are. at a minimum. equal to and
consistent with the State's minimum use standards. A local unit of
government may adopt policies which are more stringent than the minimum
use standards. If this occurs. a CAMA permit would not be issued until
the local criteria were met.
The second area of land use plan application is that of establishing
policies to guide the jurisdiction's local planning. This may apply both
within areas of environmental concern where CAMA regulations apply and in
non-CAMA regulated areas of the County. Non-CAMA related recommendations
must be implemented with local land use ordinances such as zoning or sub-
division ordinances.
The final area of application is that of "consistency review." Proposals
and applications for State and Federal assistance or requests for agency
approval of projects are normally reviewed against a jurisdiction's land
- -- use plan -to determine if -the project is consistent with local policies.
Inconsistencies of a project with local policies could serve as grounds
' for denial or revision of a project.
Land use planning regulations require Hyde County to state policies and
' select implementation strategies for land use issues in each one of five
broad categories. These topics are:
' _ Resource Protection;
Resource Production and Management:
— Economic and Community Development;
' _ Public Participation; and
Storm Hazard Mitigation. Evacuation. and Post -Disaster Recovery.
IWRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-1

C.
Based on the analysis of existing -conditions and trends, suggestions from
the County's citizens, and substantial input and guidance from the Hyde
County Board of Commissioners and Ocracoke Village Land Use Planning
Advisory Board, the policies and implementation strategies in the
following sections have been formulated to provide guides for regulating
growth, development, and resource management throughout the planning
period (1998-2007). Following the guidelines set forth in Subchapter 7B-
Land Use Planning Guidelines of the North Carolina Administrative Code
(NCAC), (03/06/96), the County considered carious policy alternatives and
implementation strategies before selecting the several policies that
follow. The Workshops and Meetings section of this Plan and the minutes
of the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board's meetings during the planning
process -- on file in the County Manager's office =in Swan Quarter -- show
that the County considered a wide range of alternatives before choosing
the policies that follow.
Hyde County's general vision statement -- expressing the type of
community the County desires to be within the next 10 years -- includes
four main themes. First, Hyde County desires to preserve the rural
appearance of the County. Second, Hyde County envisions protection of
the natural environment through the provision of public water and sewer
infrastructure. Third, Hyde County desires to create more job
opportunities to entice County young people to stay and live in the
County or return to the County to work after attending college or
university or serving in the military. Fourth. Hyde County envisions a
greater focus on developing its tourism industry.
Hyde County, as evidenced by the policies and implementation strategies
which follow, is committed to the protection of its resources. Areas of
Environmental Concern (AECs) and fragile areas present in Hyde County are
discussed in CHAPTER III, pages III-37 through III-46. The general
location of these areas are shown on MAP 6 and MAP 7 and the predominant,
generalized land uses within each are shown on MAP 1 and MAP 2.
Timing of Implementation
The Board of Commissioners and County staff annually reviews planning
goals and planning -related work items. Notwithstanding re -prioritization
of policy issue areas or rescheduling of implementation strategies
necessitated by changes in development patterns. State or Federal
mandates. or local objectives, the policies that follow will be
implemented on an ongoing basis or by the end of the five-year planning
period unless otherwise specified.
Resource Protection Issues
1. Constraints to Development - Soils and Septic Tank Use
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B., part 4., item b. on page III-14 and
part 8., item a.(4) on page III-34. Septic tank placement must
comply with State health regulations as enforced by the County
sanitarian.
H
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-2

IPOLICY
' Hyde 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.
' IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Hyde County will enforce development regulations of the
North Carolina State Building Code and District Health
Department relating to building construction and septic
' tank installation and replacement.
• Hyde County will coordinate development activity with State
regulatory personnel and the Hyde County Sanitarian.
• Hyde County will enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance. Hyde County will rely on the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers provide stringent regulation/enforcement-of the
404 wetlands permit process in Ocracoke Village.
• Hyde County will 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.
2. Constraints to Development - Flood Prone Areas
' BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B.. part 8., item a.(3) on page III-32.
' POLICY
' Hyde County supports the enforcement of local, State, and Federal
regulations and programs that minimize the threat to life and
property from flooding. --
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will continue to coordinate development within
' special flood hazard areas with the County's Building
Inspections Department, North Carolina Division of Coastal
Management, Federal Emergency Management Agency, and the
' U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
• Hyde County will continue to enforce its Flood Damage
Prevention Ordinance.
' Hyde County will implement its Storm Hazard Mitigation
Plan, as necessary.
' Hyde County will continue to enforce the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance.
' WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-3

3.
• Hyde County will continue to participate in the regular
phase of the Federal Flood Insurance Program.
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) and Fragile Areas
a.
M
Ocean Hazard AEC
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B. part 8, item b., on page III-
37.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the
guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) 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 ocean, coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine
shorelines, and public trust waters of Hyde County. It
also supports the use of best management practices
recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation
Service.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate
development through the CAMA permitting process.
Also, it will rely on the regulations of other State
and Federal agencies with regulatory authority, as
well as existing local development regulations to
mitigate threats to AECs.
Estuarine Shoreline AEC
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B., part 8., item b.(4) on page
III-38.
Hyde County has supported the efforts of the Division of
Coastal Management and Coastal Resources Commission and
relied on the CAMA permitting process to regulate
development in this area.
The quality of water in Silver Lake, the canals, and
portions of Pamlico Sound surrounding Ocracoke Island may
be degraded by shoreline development. Hyde County recog-
nizes that land uses within the estuarine shoreline could
have a substantial effect upon the quality of these waters
The preferred shoreline erosion control measures are the
planting of natural vegetation and relocation of
L
J
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-4 I

structures. Some shoreline erosion control structures may
result in the immediate or -eventual loss of coastal wet-
lands, and can cause adverse impacts on the value and
enjoyment of adjacent properties or public access to and
use of the estuarine beach. Such structures include, but
are not limited to, wooden bulkheads; sea walls; rock or
rubble revetments: wooden, metal, concrete or rock jetties;
ground and breakwaters: concrete filled sandbags and tire
structures. Before such structures are placed in the
estuarine shoreline AEC or -in the estuarine water AEC, it
should be determined through the permitting process that
the proposed structure is consistent with this Update. One
of the greatest threats to the natural estuarine shorelines
in Hyde County is improper bulkheading activities.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto — 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 estuarine shorelines of Hyde County. It also supports
the use of best management practices recommendations of the
United States Soil Conservation Service.
Hyde County supports the use of erosion control structures
when:
— a building or property is in immediate danger of
being damaged by erosion:
— relocation of the building would impose a severe
hardship on its owner:
— adjacent property will not be damaged by the erosion
control structure:
— it protects property from the adverse effects of sea
level rise: and
— public trust rights -will not be significantly
violated.
— Hyde County does not support the construction of any
new marinas in Silver Lake but does support the
restoration or reconstruction of existing marinas to
the same size including the same number of boat
slips.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Division of Coastal Management. to regulate
development in coastal wetlands and along estuarine
shorelines and to protect estuarine waters through
the CAMA permitting process.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-5

c.
0
• Hyde County will rely on the regulations -of other
State and Federal agencies with regulatory authority, ,
as well as existing local development regulations to
mitigate threats to AECs.
Freshwater Swamps and Marshes '
BACKGROUND
These areas are covered under existing CAMA or U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers regulations. The primary Federal
regulation concerning these areas is Section 404 of the '
Clean Water Act.
The United States Army Corps of Engineers, North Carolina ,
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and
District Health Department were among the agencies that
assisted the County throughout the planning period.
POLICY '
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to '
object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers regulations and the applicable
guidelines of the Coastal Area Management Act and the use
of local land use ordinances to regulate development in '
freshwater swamps and marshes.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will. rely on the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers to monitor development proposals for
compliance with Section 404-of the Clean Water Act
'
and will continue to study the adoption of local land
use ordinances.
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
'
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate
development in coastal wetlands and along estuarine
'
shorelines and to protect estuarine waters through
the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies
,
with regulatory authority. as well as existing local
development regulations to mitigate threats to AECs.
Maritime Vegetation and Forests
'
BACKGROUND J
See Chapter III, Section B.. part 8.. item b.(10), on page
III-43.
Natural vegetation helps to lower the water table. This '
reduces flooding and stormwater runoff. and serves to
stabilize erodible areas. I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-6 I

POLICY
Hyde County generally supports State and Federal programs and
'
regulations geared toward protection of maritime vegetation
and forests.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will study and may develop and adopt a
-
- local ordinance designed to regulate the removal of _--
natural vegetation.
• Hyde County will seek State technical assistance and
'
funding to study and prepare a management plan for
its remaining maritime forest.
'
e. Pocosins and 404 Wetlands
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B., part 8., item b.(7), on page
III-40.
'
Pocosins and 404 wetlands areas are covered under existing
CAMA or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations. The 404
wetlands serve to recharge the water table, reduce stormwater
runoff, and provide wildlife habitat. The primary Federal
'
regulation is Section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
'
The Corps of Engineers, North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, and District Health
Department were among the agencies that assisted the County
throughout the previous planning period.
'
hydric
Hyde County is almost entirely made up of wetlands or
soils. Strict protection of all wetlands would virtually
eliminate development potential for the County. This is not
'
a viable option. The County recognizes the value of wetlands
- — _ - - -----
- for flood control and filtering of poll-utants-as wet-l-as- _ -
- wildlife habitat. However, about 10% of the County has
already been reserved for passive State and Federal use. and
the Division of Water Quality does not monitor water quality
in the Pamlico Sound, presuming it to have a fully supporting
rating. The County needs new development to stabilize its
'
economy and provide for the future, so strict enforcement of
wetlands rules is not viewed locally as being in the County's
'
best interest.
POLICY
' Hyde County acknowledges that it is subject to existing 404
wetlands rules but favors enforcement only in areas adjacent
to open water. Hyde County supports reduction of the 404
' wetlands regulations by the Federal government. and objects
to the establishment of any State 404 or freshwater wetlands
regulations.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-7

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers to monitor development proposals for
compliance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
and will continue to enforce local land use
ordinances.
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate
development through the CAMA permitting process.
Also, it will rely on the regulations of other State
and Federal agencies with regulatory authority, as
well as existing local development regulations to
mitigate threats to pocosins and 404 wetlands.
f. Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW)
N
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B. part 8., item b.(6), on page III-
39.
POLICY
Hyde County acknowledges that it is subject to outstanding
resource waters restrictions and generally supports -- but
reserves the right to object to amendments and/or changes
thereto -- 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
outstanding resource waters of Hyde County. It also supports
the use of best management practices recommendations of the
United States Soil Conservation Service.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate
development through the CAMA permitting process.
Also, it will rely on the regulations of other State
and Federal agencies with regulatory authority, as
well as existing local development regulations to
mitigate threats to AECs.
Coastal Wetlands
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B., part 8., item b.(2). on page
III-37.
The coastal wetlands AEC includes any salt marsh or other
marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides,
whether or not the tidal waters reach the wetlands through
natural or artificial watercourses. Coastal wetlands are
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-8

'
important because they produce nutrients which serve as the
-- - - -
- primary food source for various species of fish and -- -= _--
shellfish. The dense vegetation and root networks of the
coastal wetlands also help retard shoreline erosion and trap
Potential
sediments before they reach the estuarine waters.
threats to coastal wetlands are primarily due to surface run-
off associated with agriculture, forestry, and residential
uses.
Hyde County supports the efforts of the North Carolina
'
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
Coastal Management and the Coastal Resources Commission and
relies on the Coastal Area Management Act permitting process
'
to regulate development in coastal wetlands.
The preservation of coastal wetlands is a priority of many
County residents, particularly on Ocracoke. These wetlands
'
are important to the maintenance of the water quality of the
estuarine waters and afford protective -habitat and nursery
areas in the life cycles of fish, crabs, and shellfish. They
-
_ -==-- -_ -- -
also provide an important habitat for many- differ_ent_.- _ -- --_--_ _--,-
shorebirds. A priority of many residents of Ocracoke Village
is to allow uses of coastal wetlands which require water
'
access and which are consistent with other policy statements
in this section. Proposed land uses in coastal wetlands
should demonstrate that the proposed project requires water
access and that there is no feasible alternative location
with less impact on -wetlands.
POLICY
'
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the guidelines
of the Coastal Area Management Act and the efforts and
'
programs of the North Carolina Department of Environment and
the
Natural Resources. Division of Coastal Management and
Coastal Resources Commission to protect the coastal wetlands
of Hyde County. It also supports the use of best management
'
practices recommendations of the United States Soil
Conservation Service.
Hyde County does not support the construction of any new
marinas in Silver Lake but does support the restoration or
reconstruction of existing marinas to the same size including
'
the same number of boat slips.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
-
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate - =_
'
development in coastal wetlands and along estuarine
shorelines and to protect estuarine waters through
the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies
'
with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
development regulations to mitigate threats to
'
coastal wetlands.
WRT\9703-NOV-2
IV-9

h. Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III. Section B., part 8., items b.(3) and (5), on
page III-38.
The estuarine waters AEC includes all waters of the State's
bays, sounds, and streams seaward of the dividing line
between coastal and inland fishing waters.
Hyde County recognizes the extreme vulnerability of estuarine
waters. Surface runoff, septic tank leakage, and liquid
waste discharges pose the greatest threats to the estuarine
waters. Of these, agricultural runoff poses the greatest
threat due to the scopeof these activities in Hyde County.
Hyde County supports the efforts of the North Carolina
Department -of Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
Coastal Management and the Coastal Resources Commission and
relies on the CAMA permitting process to regulate development
in these areas.
The public trust waters AEC are all waters and submerged
lands in the twenty county coastal region where the public
has rights of use, including rights of navigation and
recreation. Specifically. these waters include:
all waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands
thereunder from the mean high water mark to the
seaward limit of State jurisdiction;
all natural bodies of water subject to measurable
lunar tides, and all lands thereunder to the mean
high water mark;
all navigable natural bodies of water and all lands
-- - thereunder, except privately owned lakes to which the
public has no right of access;
_- — all water in artificially created bodies of water
containing significant public fishing resources or
other public resources which are accessible to the
public by navigation from bodies of water in which
the public has navigation rights; and
— all waters in artificially created bodies of water in
which the public has acquired rights by prescription,
custom, usage, dedication. or any other means.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports — but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto — the guidelines
of the Coastal Area Management Act and the efforts and
programs of the North Carolina Department of Environment and
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-1 O

'
Natural Resources, Division of Coastal Management and the
Coastal Resources Commission to -protect the -estuarine waters
and public trust waters of Hyde County. It also supports the
use of best management practices recommendations of the
United States Soil Conservation Service.
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto — uses of
estuarine waters and public trust areas in Ocracoke that
provide public -benefits -to Ocracoke-zVrllage, and which
satisfy riparian access needs of private property owners.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources,
Division of Coastal Management, to regulate
development in coastal wetlands and along estuarine
shorelines and to protect estuarine waters through
the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies
with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
development regulations to mitigate threats to
'
estuarine waters and public trust areas.
i. Silver Lake
'
BACKGROUND
On Ocracoke Island, scattered subaquatic vegetation is found
in Silver Lake and along the shores of Pamlico Sound. Some
major concentrations occur in Pamlico Sound adjacent to
National Park Service property. Subaquatic vegetation should
be protected as an important part of Ocracoke's marine
'
environment. It contributes to the well-being of Pamlico
Sound's fish and crab populations. Commercial fishing and
other marine activities are essential to Ocracoke's economy
and history. A major concern and need in Ocracoke should be
- ---
the improvement and protection of -eater -quality -in Si-lver
Lake and Pamlico Sound.
'
The State classifies tidal salt waters as follows:
- Class SA: shell fishing for market purposes and any
other usage specified by the "SB"
and"SC" classification
- Class SB: primary recreation and any other usage
"SC"
specified by the classification.
'
- Class SC: fish and wildlife propagation, secondary
recreation, and other uses requiring
waters to lower quality.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-11

- - Bacteriological data collected by the Shellfish Sanitation
Program of the North Carolina Division of Health Services
resulted in the closure of shellfish waters in Silver Lake
and in the canals and tributaries from the shore area north
of Ocracoke Village. Silver Lake is currently classified SC
Hyde County desires to prevent further deterioration of
estuarine water quality and loss of public trust uses on
Ocracoke Island and to restore degraded water quality and
lost uses of public trust areas.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes thereto — 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 Hyde County. It also supports the use of -best --
management practices recommendations of the United States
Soil Conservation Service.
Hyde County supports the
Environmental Management
classified waters.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
re-classification by the
Commission of Silver Lake as SA
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources. Division of Coastal
Management, to regulate development through the CAMA
permitting process. Also, it will rely on the regulations of
other State and Federal agencies with regulatory authority,
as well as existing local development regulations to mitigate
threats to AECs.
• _. Hyde County may request that a classification study be done
by the Division of Water Quality with respect to Silver Lake
and study the ramifications of such a re-classification.
4. Means of Protecting Potable Water Supply and Groundwater Quality
BACKGROUND
Hyde County recognizes groundwater resources as an essential
element for drinking water supply. The management of groundwater
--resources and their protection is a priority issue in the County. -
The County is aware that inappropriate land uses near well fields
may increase the possibility of well contamination. Land uses
near groundwater sources are regulated by the North Carolina
Division of Environmental Management.
WRT\9103-NOV-2 I V -12

POLICY
Hyde County supports the protection of its potable water supply.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management for assistance in protecting its potable water
-
supply and maintaining groundwater -quality.- --_-­- - --
• Hyde County will encourage coordination of development
'
activities involving chemical storage or underground storage
tank installation/abandonment with Hyde County Emergency
Management personnel and the North Carolina Division of
Environmental Management.
CAMA N.C. Division
• Hyde County will continue to support and
of Environmental Management stormwater runoff regulations.
'0
Hyde County will ask the Ocracoke Sanitary District to plan
for an adequate, long-range water supply.
'0
Hyde County will encourage public and private water
conservation efforts.
'0
Hyde County will ask the Ocracoke Sanitary District to
encourage and support water conservation efforts.
Hyde County will encourage motels and rental units to post
'0
notices encouraging water conservation by tourists.
• Hyde County will review development proposals, such as new
'
subdivisions and other large water consuming projects, with
respect to the availability of drinking water.
5. Package Treatment Plants
BACKGROUND
Degradation of water quality in estuarine waters has already
occurred in certain areas of the County according to
bacteriological data collected by the N.C. Division of Health
Services. On Ocracoke Island, reasons for deteriorating water
quality include poor soils. high water tables, frequent flooding,
small lots, high density development, and a harsh salt
environment. Ocracoke Island's isolated location makes it more
'
problematic to enforce adequate operation and maintenance of
mechanical sewage treatment facilities.
'
POLICY
Hyde County does not oppose the construction of package treatment
plants which are approved and permitted by the State Division of
'
Environmental Management.
1 WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-13
11

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the Division of Environmental '
Management to oversee the operation and management of all
package sewage treatment plants. '
• Hyde County will support investigations by the District
Health Department and others concerning the use of package
- sewage treatment plants as a method of solving severe sewage -
disposal problems. '
• Hyde County will consider studies of watershed contamination. '
6. Stormwater Runoff and Its Impact on Coastal Wetlands, Surface
Waters, or Other Fragile Areas
BACKGROUND '
Residential development on the Hyde County mainland is typical of ,
most rural areas in that most homes are located on large lots.
Generally, residential runoff does not pose a significant threat
to the fragile lands or the surface waters in the County. '
However, increased development could pose a threat to surface
water quality.
Although the potential exists, nutrient loading of the surface
,
waters through stormwater runoff from agriculture lands has
generally not been a significant problem in the County. No
studies that describe the scope and extent of this problem are
available. In general, the farmers in the County recognize the
'
potential dangers to the surface waters in the area from the rapid
loading offertilizer enriched stormwater into the drainage basins
of the County and to a great extent, have initiated best
'
management recommendations of the U.S. Soil Conservation Service.
Hyde County recognizes the value of water quality maintenance to
the protection of fragile areas and to the provision of clean
'
water for recreational purposes. __
In Ocracoke Village, Hyde County prefers that no storm drains,
'
drainage ditches, or mosquito ditches be constructed which.
discharge directly into estuarine waters, public trust waters, or
estuarine shorelines. It is preferred that existing storm drains,
'
drainage ditches, or mosquito ditches be properly maintained. Some
form of water retention area or settling basins should be
provided, where practical. Discharge into coastal wetlands is
considered acceptable by Hyde County if associated construction
'
and development does not damage coastal wetland areas.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the use of the best management practices
recommendations of the United States Soil Conservation Service.
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-14

' IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
' Hyde County will encourage local farm organizations to
maintain ongoing educational programs and demonstrations that
will keep farmers informed of best management practices and
available assistance.
• Hyde County will cooperate with the North Carolina Department
of Transportation, the North Carolina Division of
Environmental Management, and other State agencies in -
mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff on all conser-
vation classified areas.
• Hyde County will seek funding and technical assistance to
study the effect of mosquito and other man-made ditches on
the estuarine system.
• Hyde County will seek funding and technical assistance to
develop a stormwater management plan and ordinance to aid in
' eliminating standing water.
7. Marinas
' BACKGROUND
Marinas are considered to be any publicly- or privately -owned
' dock, basin or wet boat storage facility constructed to
accommodate more than 10 boats, and providing any of the following
services: permanent or transient docking spaces. dry storage.
t fueling facilities, haulout facilities and repair services.
Excluded from this definition are boat ramp facilities allowing
access only, temporary docking and none of the preceding services.
Expansion of existing facilities shall also comply with these
' standards for all development other than maintenance and repair
necessary to maintain previous service levels. APPENDIX 1 lists
commercial marinas and dockages in Hyde County.
' POLICY
Hyde County supports the construction of marinas so long as the
relevant policies of this plan and all other State and Federal
regulations are complied with: however. Hyde County opposes any
new construction or expansion of marinas in Silver Lake.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management. to regulate development of marinas within in its
borders through the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will
' rely on the regulations of other State and Federal agencies
with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
development regulations.
• Hyde County will request assistance through the North
Carolina Department of Commerce to assist local marina
' WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-15
1
J�

operators in researching options available for upgrading and '
- expanding marina facilities. -
8. Floating Structures '
BACKGROUND '
Floating structures are defined as any structure or vessel used,
designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business,
office, or source of any occupation or any private or social -club,- '
which floating structure or vessel is primarily immobile and out
of navigation or which functions substantially as a land structure
while moored or docked on waters within County jurisdiction. '
Floating homes are not an issue or problem on the Hyde County
mainland. However, Hyde County discourages the anchoring of '
floating homes within its planning jurisdiction.
POLICY
Hyde County opposes, on Ocracoke Island, the use of floating '
homes, boats, or the like for commercial or residential purposes
or for habitation for more than 15 days or more than one 15-day ,
period per vessel per year.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES '
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, to regulate floating homes within its borders '
through the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies with
regulatory authority, as well as existing local development ,
regulations.
• Hyde County will consider amendments to the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance regarding floating structures. ,
-- 9. Dry Stack Storage Facilities —
BACKGROUND ,
Currently, two (2) of the seventeen (17) marinas in Hyde County
provide dry stack storage. See APPENDIX 1. '
POLICY
Hyde County supports the construction of drystack storage '
facilities on the mainland but construction of drystack storage
facilities on Ocracoke Island is subject to the Geracok-e Village
Development Ordinance. ,
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, to regulate development of dry stack storage '
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-16 I

facilities within its borders through the CAMA permitting
- - a -process. Also, it will rely on the regulations of other - - - - -
State and Federal agencies with regulatory authority, as well
as existing local development regulations.
• Hyde County will enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance.
• Hyde County will review and/or amend the Ocracoke Village
---_ - - Development Ordinance as development patterns change -or -new -
patterns occur on Ocracoke Island.
10. Docks and Piers
BACKGROUND
According to the North Carolina Administrative Code (8/1/98)
T15ANCAC 7H.0208, docks and piers shall not exceed six feet -in
width. Wider docks and piers shall be permitted only if the
_ greater width is necessary for safe use to improve public access,
or to support a water dependent use that cannot otherwise occur.
Any portion of a dock or pier (either fixed or floating) extending
' from the main structure and six feet or less in width shall be
considered either a "T" or finger pier.
' Any portion of a dock or pier (either fixed or floating) greater
than six feet wide shall be considered a platform or deck.
The combined area of all "T"s, finger piers, platforms, and decks
' must not exceed a combined total area of four square feet per
linear foot of shoreline. Projects requiring dimensions greater
than those stated in this Rule shall be permitted only if the
' greater dimensions are necessary for safe use, or to support a
water dependent use that cannot otherwise occur.
' "T"s, platforms and decks shall have no more than six feet of any
dimension extending over coastal wetlands.
Docks, piers, "T"s and associated structures built over wetlands
' must be elevated at least three feet over the weltand substrate
measured from the bottom of the decking.
' Boathouses shall not exceed 400 square feet except to accommodate
a demonstrated need for a larger boathouse and shall have sides
extending no farther than one-half the height of the walls and
only covering the top half of the walls. Measurements of square
footage shall be taken of the greatest exterior dimensions.
Boathouses shall not be allowed on lots with less than 75 linear
reet-of shoreline. Size restrictions shall not apply to marinas.
' The total area enclosed by boat lifts shall not exceed 400 square
feet.
' Piers, docks, decks, platforms and boat houses shall be single
story. They may be roofed but shall not be designed to allow
' second story use.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV- 17

Pier length shall be limited by:
► not extending beyond the established pier length along the
'
same shoreline for similar use: (This restriction shall not
apply to piers 100 feet or less in length unless necessary to
avoid unreasonable interference with navigation or other uses
'
of the waters by the public);
► not extending into the channel portion of the water body;
► not extending more than one -fourth -the width of a natural
water body, or human -made canal or basin. Measurements to
'
determine widths of the water body, canals, or basins shall
be made from the waterward edge of any coastal wetland
vegetation which borders the water body. The one-fourth
'
length limitation shall not apply in areas where the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers. or a local government in
consultation with the Corps of Engineers, has established an
'
official pier -head line. The one-fourth length limitation
shall not apply when the proposed pier is located between
longer piers within 200 feet of the applicant's property.
However, the proposed pier cannot be longer than the pier
'
head line established by the adjacent piers, nor longer than
1/3 the width of the water body.
,
Piers longer than 400 feet shall be permitted only if the proposed
length gives access to deeper water at a rate of at least one foot
each 100 foot increment of pier length longer than 400 feet, or.
if the additional length is necessary to span some obstruction to
'
navigation. Measurements to determine pier lengths shall be made
from the waterward edge of any coastal wetland vegetation which
borders the water body.
'
Piers shall not interfere with the access to any riparian property
and shall have a minimum setback of 15 feet between any part of
,
the pier and the adjacent property owner's areas of riparian
access. The line of division of areas of riparian access shall be
established by drawing a line along the channel or deep water in
front of the properties. then drawing a line perpendicular to the
'
line of the channel so that it intersects with the shore at the
point the upland property line meets the water's edge: --The
minimum setback provided in the rule may be waived by the written
,
agreement of the adjacent riparian owner(s) or when two adjoining
riparian owners are co -applicants. Should the adjacent property
be sold before construction of the pier commences, the applicant
,
shall obtain a written agreement with the new owner waiving the
minimum setback and submit it to the permitting agency prior to
initiating any development of the pier. Application of this Rule
may be aided by reference to the approved diagram in 15A NCAC
'
7H.1205(q) illustrating the rule as applied to various shoreline
configurations. Copies of the diagram -nay be obtained from the _
Division of Coastal Management. When shoreline configuration is
such that a perpendicular alignment cannot be achieved, the pier
shall be aligned to meet the intent of this Rule to the maximum
extent practicable. I
WRT\9703-NOV-2
IV-18 ,

' Applicants for authorization to construct a dock or pier shall
provide notice of the permit applijeation-lor exemption request to
the owner of any part of a shellfish franchise or lease over which
' the proposed dock or pier would extend. The applicant shall allow
the lease holder the opportunity to mark a navigation route from
the pier to the edge of the lease.
' See North Carolina Administrative Code (as amended and effective
8/1/98) T15ANCAC 7H.0208 use standard for general permit
' information.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the construction of docks and piers so long
as relevant policies of this plan and all other State and Federal
regulations are complied with.
Hyde County supports, within Silver Lake, a maximum pier length of
150 feet and a limit of 10 slips per pier/dock.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
'
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, to regulate development of docks and piers
within its borders through the CAMA permitting process.
Also, it will rely on the regulations of other State and
'
Federal agencies with regulatory authority, as well as
existing local development regulations.
• Hyde County will consider requesting that the U.S. Army Corps
of Engineers conduct a study of establishing a pier -head
line.
'
11. Temporary Moorings and Mooring Fields
' BACKGROUND
--- CAMA does not have a policy governing -temporary mooring -of vessels
' in public trust waters.
POLICY
' Hyde County supports temporary moorings and mooring fields if same
are established in accordance with applicable regulations and in a
manner so as not to impede navigation.
' IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on local, State, and Federal agencies-
' with regulatory authority to regulate temporary moorings and
mooring fields.
'• Hyde County will consider analyzing the need to improve
transient docking facilities, channel depth, and general
harbor facilities during the planning period.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-19

12. Industrial Impact on Fragile Areas xA.
BACKGROUND
The development of a diversified economic base and jobs are
crucial to a stable future for Hyde County. The County does not
want to prohibit mainland industrial development which meets all
applicable State and Federal regulations. Industrial development
which can comply with the use standards specified by 15A NCAC 7H
and applicable ORW management plans may be located within
conservation classified areas.
POLICY
Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland
in areas that are already similarly developed or iri public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime
agricultural lands for such development.
Hyde County opposes, with the exception of commercial fishing and
associated businesses, fish processing, and traditional cottage
industries, any industrial development in Ocracoke Village.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management, to regulate industrial development through the
CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on the
regulations of other State and Federal agencies with
regulatory authority, as well as existing local development
regulations to mitigate impacts on fragile areas by
industrial or economic development,
• Hyde County will enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations on
the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
13. Restriction of Development Within Areas That Might Be Susceptible
To Sea Level Rise
BACKGROUND
Hyde County recognizes the uncertainties associated with sea level
-- rise. Existing local, State, and Federal regulations are deemed
adequate to restrict development in these areas.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-20

IPOLICY
Hyde County generally supports 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, but reserves the right to object to
' amendments and/or changes to regulations and/or programs.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
' Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and National 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 wetlands loss.
• Hyde County will rely on State and Federal agencies to
monitor the effects of sea level rise and cooperate with
local, State, and Federal efforts to inform the public of the
anticipated effects of sea level rise. -
• Hyde County will consider updates or amendments to its land
use plan policies as necessary to protect the County's public
' and private properties from rising water levels.
• Hyde County will support bulkheading on the mainland to pro-
tect its shoreline areas from intruding water resulting from
rising sea level.
• Hyde County will not oppose allowing migrating shorelines in
' Ocracoke Village coastal wetlands areas in order to preserve
coastal wetlands.
• Hyde County will consider establishing setback standards,
density controls, bulkhead restrictions, buffer vegetation
protection requirements, and building designs through the
' Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance and Hyde County
Building Code which will facilitate the movement of
structures.
14. Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
BACKGROUND
There has not been a great deal of interest or activity in Hyde
County regarding this issue. However, if open water marinas
become a concern, the County may encourage developers to excavate
' for marina basins. Pollutant build-up following such activities
could occur unless proper engineering principles are followed.
' POLICY
Hyde County generally supports the efforts and programs of State
' and Federal agencies with jurisdiction to regulate the upland
excavation of land for marina basins but reserves the right to
object to amendments and/or changes to regulations and/or
' programs.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-21

15.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on State and Federal agencies with
'
jurisdiction to regulate upland excavation for marina basins.
It will encourage such activities in cases where intrusion of
marina facilities into a waterway would interfere with the
,
use of the waterway by the general public.
Bulkhead Installation
'
BACKGROUND
Bulkheading activities, if properly engineered and permitted, are
'
considered an asset to the County.
According to the NCAC (12/12/91). bulkhead alignment, for the
,
purpose of shoreline stabilization, must approximate mean high
water or normal water level. Bulkheads shall be constructed
landward of significant marshland or marsh grass fringes.
Bulkhead fill material shall be obtained from an approved upland -
-
source, or if the bulkhead is a part of a permitted project
involving excavation from a non -upland source, the material so
obtained may be contained behind the bulkhead. Bulkheads or other
'
structures employed for shoreline stabilization shall be permitted
below approximate mean high water or normal water level only when
the following standards are met:
'
— the property to be bulkheaded has an identifiable erosion
problem, whether it results from natural causes or adjacent
bulkheads, or it has unusual geographic or geologic features,
,
e.g., steep grade bank, which will cause the applicant
unreasonable hardship under the other provisions of this
regulation;
'
— the bulkhead alignment extends no further below approximate
mean high water or normal water level than necessary to allow ,
recovery of the area eroded in the year prior to the date of
application, to align with adjacent bulkheads, or to mitigate
the unreasonable hardship resulting from the unusual '
geographic or geologic features:
— the bulkhead alignment will not result in significant adverse
impacts to public trust rights or to the property of adjacent '
riparian owners:
the need for a bulkhead below approximate mean high water or '
normal water level is documented in the Field Investigation
Report or other reports prepared by the Division of Coastal
Management: and
the property to be bulkheaded is in a non- oceanfront area.
See NCAC (12/12/91) T15A:07H.1100 for general permit information. '
WRT\9703-NOV-2
IV-22 '

IPOLICY
Hyde County supports the construction of bulkheads as long as they
' fulfill the use standards set forth in 15A NCAC 7H.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
' Hyde County will rely on the Department of Environment and
Natural Resources. Division of Coastal Management to monitor
' and regulate bulkheading activities.
16. Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
' BACKGROUND
For this plan. Hyde County considers an island a tract of land
completely surrounded by water; however, existing islands created
by man-made canals are exempt.
POLICY _-
Hyde County does not oppose development of sound and estuarine
islands as defined herein if the development satisfies the
'
15A NCAC 7H use standards and applicable ORW management plans.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources. Division of Coastal
'
Management, to regulate development of sound or estuarine
islands through the CAMA permitting process. Also. it will
rely on the regulations of other State and Federal agencies
with regulatory authority. we well as existing local
'
development regulations concerning such development.
17. Man -Made Hazards
'
BACKGROUND
The most prevalent man-made hazards in the County are those
associated with vehicular and pedestrian movement within the
County -wide transportation system. Man-made hazards also include
depots for fuel, chemicals, fertilizers. and grains.
'
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports local. State, and Federal efforts
'
to minimize the adverse impact of man-made hazards within its
borders.
'
Hyde County opposes, with the exception of bulk fuel storage tanks
used for retail and wholesale sales, public power generation. and
individual heating fuel storage tanks. the bulk storage of man-
made hazardous materials as defined by the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency in Ocracoke Village.
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-23

WRT\9703-NOV-2
Hyde County opposes the disposal of any.toxic wastes, as defined
by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Listing of Hazardous '
Substances and Priority Pollutants, within its jurisdiction.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will continue to rely on State technical
requirements and programs to regulate underground storage
tanks. '
• Hyde County will utilize its development controls and will
rely on State and Federal agencies with jurisdiction to '
minimize the impact of man-made hazards.
18. Water Quality Management
BACKGROUND ,
Hyde County contains extensive marine resource areas. Some of the
_ most important are the primary and secondary nursery areas. These
'
are defined by the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries and
are delineated on MAP 6, areas of Environmental Concern and Other
Fragile Areas. These are dispersed along the creeks and bays
'
entering Pamlico Sound and the Pungo and Shoal Rivers. However,
the greatest concentrations occur around Rose. Bell, and Deep
Bays, and along the eastern shore of the Pungo River.
'
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality assigns water quality
classifications to all waters of the State. The classifications
are based upon the existing or contemplated best usage of the
'
various streams and segments of streams within a basin, as
determined through studies, evaluations, and comments received at
public hearings. The State classifies tidal salt waters as
'
follows:
Class SA: shellfishing for market purposes and any other usage ,
specified by the "SB" and "SC" classification:
Class SB: primary recreation and any other usage specified by
the "SC" classification: '
Class SC: fish and wildlife propagation, secondary recreation,
and other uses requiring waters of lower quality. '
Areas in the Pamlico Sound and on Ocracoke do not have water
quality monitoring stations because the stations are only placed '
in proximity to point source discharges, like municipal wastewater
treatment plants and large industrial dischargers. Where no data
has been provided, water quality is presumed to be "supporting"
its classification uses. Silver Lake is currently classified as '
SC waters.
The North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries has re -opened
almost the entire Swan Quarter Bay to shellfishing due to
improvement to the water quality.
IV-24

u
L
All Hyde County waters in the Pamlico Sound. Shoal River, and bays
and natural -creeks entering them are classified SA. The southern
half of the Pungo River is classified SA. From a dividing line
extending from Woodstock Point on the west shore to Ocilley Point
on the east shore, the northern one-half of the Pungo River is
classified SB. All of Lake Mattamuskeet and some of the canals
connecting to the sounds, rivers, and bays are classified SC.
Individuals should verify the canal water classifications with the
Division of Water Quality.
On Ocracoke Island, scattered subaquatic vegetation is found in
Silver Lake and along the shores of Pamlico Sound. Some major
concentrations occur in Pamlico Sound adjacent to National Park
Service property. All subaquatic vegetation should be protected
as an important part of Ocracoke's marine environment. It
contributes to the well-being of Pamlico Sound's fish and crab
populations. Commercial fishing and other marine activities are
essential to Ocracoke's economy and history. A major concern and
need in Ocracoke should be the improvement and protection of water
quality in Silver Lake and Pamlico Sound.
Surface water in Hyde County, though nearly all brackish, is
abundant. The quality generally is good and the waters are not
subject to acute long-term pollution. There has been concern in
recent years over the impact of freshwater intrusion into the
saline -concentrated estuarine waters, mainly from surface runoff.
Most of Hyde County is in the Tar -Pamlico Rivers basin and a much
smaller portion is in the Pasquotank River basin. See APPENDIX 2.
POLICY
Hyde County supports the enforcement of local. State. and Federal
regulations and programs that protect water quality.
Hyde County supports wetlands "created" to aid in treating waste
effluent.
' Hyde County supports the extension of central sewer service into
- — all -areas of -the County mainland -including the construction of _
lines to and through conservation areas to serve development which
' meets all applicable State and Federal regulations.
Hyde County supports all efforts to secure available State and
' Federalfunding of the construction and/or expansion of public and
private sewer systems.
Hyde County supports the development of central sewer system(s) to
serve the Engelhard, Swan Quarter, Ponzer. Fairfield, and
Sladesville communities.
' Hyde 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.
IWRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-25
7
1l

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will enforce development regulations of the North
Carolina State Building Code and District Health Department
relating to the building construction and septic tank
installation and replacement.
• Hyde County will coordinate development activity with State
regulatory personnel and the Hyde County Sanitarian.
• Hyde County will enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance.
• Hyde County will identify and contact State and Federal
agencies that provide typical and non -typical funding sources
for assistance in providing central sewer to the mainland.
• Hyde County will request that the State establish an
interagency task force to work directly with the Hyde County
Board of Commissioners and Manager to identify solutions and
sources of funding.
• Hyde County will enforce current development regulations of
the North Carolina State Building Code and District Health
Department relating to building construction and septic tank
installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions.
• Hyde County will coordinate development activity with
appropriate County and State regulatory personnel and, in
particular, with the Hyde County Sanitarian.
• Hyde County will 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.
• Hyde County will consider studying water shed pollution and
causes and mitigation measures including technology for
smaller or individual sewer systems which could minimize or
eliminate the sources of pollution.
D. Resource Production and Management Issues
1. Importance of Agriculture, Forestry, Mining, Fisheries, and
Recreational Resources
BACKGROUND
Hyde County's reliance on agriculture and fishing has been
documented, as have the enormous impact and appeal of its forested
areas and its passive recreational opportunities. The County does
not encourage the conversion of prime farmland to residential use,
although such conversions do occur. Given the extent and
importance of Hyde County's natural resources, the community is
. I
F1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-26

' keenly aware of the importance of proper resource production and
management.
' POLICY
Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
1 compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland
in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime
' agricultural land for such development.
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to object
to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural resources of Hyde* -County. It.
` also supports the use of best management practices recommendations
of the United States Soil Conservation Service and similar efforts
to ensure proper resource production and management.__.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
' Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management to regulate development of coastal wetlands and
along estuarine shorelines and to protect estuarine waters
through the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies with
regulatory authority, as well as existing local development
' regulations to protect the natural environment.
2. Productive Agricultural Lands
' BACKGROUND
1
IWRT\9703-NOV-2
Most of the County is suitable for agricultural production,
although there are no productive agricultural lands on Ocracoke
Island. The best agricultural areas, according to the soil
associations, occur as borders between the low marsh areas and the
inland plain area.
POLICY
Hyde County supports and encourages use of the United States Soil
Conservation Service best management practices program to protect
productive agricultural lands.
Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
compatible industry and commercial establishments within its - -
borders in areas that are already similarly developed or in public
or private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime
agricultural land for such development.
IV-27

3
4.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES _.
• Hyde County will rely on the regulations of State and Federal
'
agencies with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
development regulations to mitigate threats to the natural
environment.
Commercial Forest Lands
BACKGROUND
'
About 60% of Hyde County is timberland. Conversion of forested
lands to agricultural production and the lack of reforestation has
'
reduced the total acreage of wooded lands in the County. In Hyde
County, much of the best forest land is also the best farm land.
There are no productive forest lands on Ocracoke Island.
POLICY
Hyde County supports the reforestation of clear-cut timber lands.
'
Hyde County supports the reforestation of clear-cut hardwood
forests using hardwood plantings.
'
Hyde County supports utilization of the forest best management
practices of the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources for
'
all forestry operations.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will continue to encourage the use of forest best
management practices.
'
Existing and Potential Mineral Production Areas
BACKGROUND
The State issues mining permits, if not in conflict with local
zoning regulations. However, at present, Hyde County does not
have a zoning ordinance.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports properly permitted mining activities within
its borders.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will rely on State permitting agencies. to a,
regulate mining activities.
'
• Hyde County will communicate grievances to the appropriate
State agencies and officials, as necessary. concerning mining
activities.
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-28

5.
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries, Shellfishing Waters, and
- -
Nursery and Habitat Areas
'
BACKGROUND
Hyde County recognizes the importance to the region, State, and
'
nation of the Federal wildlife reserves within -Hyde County. These
reserves provide habitats for numerous species of animals and
plant life and contribute to the local tourist economy. However,
the County also recognizes that additional takeover- of=any--lands
take lands out of the
for expansion of wildlife reserves could
local ad valorem tax base and the County is concerned with the
possible effect this may have on the local tax base.
Commercial and recreational fisheries are vital to the economy and
heritage of Ocracoke Island. Moreover, Hyde County's commercial
fishing industry may have "untapped" markets. Hyde County
supports and encourages fishing -related economic opportunities
which provide potential for employment for mainland and Ocracoke
Island residents.
POLICY
'
Hyde County generally supports the use standards for estuarine and
public trust areas as specified in 15A NCAC 7H.02O7, but reserves
.the right to comment on the individual policies and requirements
'
of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries.
Hyde County opposes any expansion of Federal wildlife reserves
that pre-empt any lands within Hyde County.
Hyde County supports commercial and recreational fishing in its
waters and will cooperate with other local governments, State, and
Federal agencies to control pollution of these waters to improve
conditions so that commercial and recreational fishing will
increase.
Hyde County supports the preservation of nursery and habitat
-
areas. -
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to object
to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural resources of Hyde County. It
'
also supports the use of best management practices recommendations
States Soil Conservation Service.
of the United
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES "
• Hyde County will seek assistance from the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources to develop additional
'
public accesses and boat ramps.
'
WRT\9 703-NOV-2
IU-29

• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal '
Management to regulate development of coastal wetlands and
along estuarine shorelines and to protect estuarine waters
through the CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on ,
the regulations of other State and Federal agencies with
regulatory authority, as well as existing local development
regulations to mitigate threats to the natural environment.
6. Trawling Activities in Estuarine Waters '
BACKGROUND
1
Trawling activities in estuarine waters have not resulted in
problems or conflicts involving Hyde County.
POLICY
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Division of Marine
'
Fisheries to regulate trawling activities in estuarine waters
subject to applicable rules and regulations.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
,
• Hyde County will review and comment, as necessary, on
individual questions concerning trawling and other commercial
,
and marine fisheries issues.
7. Off -Road Vehicles
'
BACKGROUND
Off -road driving activities have not resulted in problems or
'
conflicts involving Hyde County.
POLICY
'
Hyde County does not oppose the -responsible -use of off -road _
vehicles.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the regulations of State and Federal
'
agencies with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
law enforcement agencies to mitigate threats posed by off -
road driving.
'
8. Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Land Development Impacts
on Any Resource
-'
BACKGROUND
Hyde County has redoubled its efforts to attract industrial and
'
economic development to the mainland while remaining cognizant of
its duty to protect the natural environment.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-30

' POLICY
' Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland
in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime
agricultural lands for such development and to mitigate the
impacts of such developments on any resources.
- Hyde County opposes industrial development -on Ocracoke Island
except for businesses related to commercial fishing and tradi-
tional cottage industries.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will allow residential, commercial, and
' industrial development which meets 15A NCAC 7H`use standards,
and applicable ORW management plans, in estuarine shoreline,
estuarine water, and public trust areas.
• Hyde County will allow development in all other areas that is
consistent with applicable local, State, and Federal
' regulations. However, development should not be prohibited
by the enforcement of 404 wetlands regulations.
• Hyde County will encourage a development along the Pungo
' River, Far Creek, and the Intercostal Waterway.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations for
the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
9. Peat or Phosphate Mining's Impact on Any Resource
' BACKGROUND
' The Hyde County mainland has substantial deposits of peat. See
Chapter III. Section B.. part 8., item c.(2), on page III-44.
-----There are no peat or phosphate deposits located on Ocracoke
' Island.
The State issues mining permits, if not in conflict with local
zoning regulations. At present, Hyde County does not have a
' zoning ordinance.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports properly permitted mining
activities within its borders, but reserves the right to object to
' - amendments and/or changes to applicable regulations and/or-- —~
programs.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on State permitting agencies to
regulate mining activities.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-31

1
• Hyde County will communicate grievances to appropriate State
agencies and officials, as necessary, concerning mining I
activities.
10. Acquaculture Activities ,
BACKGROUND
Aquaculture is considered the cultivation of aquatic plants and '.
animals under controlled conditions.
POLICY '
Hyde County generally supports aquaculture 'activities which do not
alter significantly and negatively the natural environment of
coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, public trust areas, and
freshwater wetlands, but reserves the right to object to
amendments and/or changes to applicable regulations and/or
programs. '
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will encourage all aquaculture activities which ,
meet applicable local, State, and Federal policies and permit
requirements. However, Hyde County reserves the right to
comment on all aquaculture activities which require Division '
of Environmental Management permitting.
Economic and Community Development Issues '
1. Types and Locations of Industries Desired
BACKGROUND '
Industrial development is crucial to economic growth in Hyde
County. The County's heavy reliance on employment in the tourism,
'
service, agricultural, fishing, and forestry sectors should be
balanced by the development_of-a base _on industrial/manufacturing
employment.
'
Several industries have made informal inquiries about the
possibility of locating in Hyde County. However, the lack of
necessary infrastructure and the presence of environmentally
'
fragile areas served to discourage many and forestall additional
significant action by industrial concerns.
development
Expansion of both seasonal and year-round residential
is a top priority in order to stabilize the local tax base.
Commercial and industrial development is also desired on the
mainland to reverse out -migration and to provide jobs and services
,
which support desired population growth. The cost of providing
public growth stimuli such as roads, water and sewer is very high,
but the County has made spending for provision of services a
priority in its budget.
Lil
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-32 I

POLICY
Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally
compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland
in areas that are already similarly developed or in public or
private industrial parks to minimize the sacrifice of prime
agricultural lands for such development.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek grant monies to encourage and promote
economic and industrial development through advertising, land
acquisition, and infrastructure improvements.
• Hyde County will encourage the creation of investment clubs
by the private sector to make start-up monies available to
new businesses.
' Hyde County will support the recruitment and siting of ---
environmentally compatible commercial and industrial
establishments on the mainland in areas already similarly
' developed and in public or private industrial parks that may
develop.
• Hyde County will encourage the preparation and distribution
' of materials which serve to highlight the County's history
and culture, location, transportation system, available land,
and utilities.
' 2. Local Commitment to Providing Service to Development
BACKGROUND
' During the -public informational meetings conducted during the
preparation of this Update, speakers voiced concerns over the:
— absence of infrastructure:
— lack of railroad; -
' _ lack of four -lane roads;
condition of County buildings;
— lack of zoning/subdivision ordinance;
— lack of medical facilities:
' _ lack of affordable housing;
lack of skilled workforce;
— lack of restaurants, lodging, commercial establishments;
' _ signage of businesses;
lack of recreational facilities - parks, boat ramps, picnic
tables, golf courses:
' _ mosquito control efforts:
lack of parking in Ocracoke Village;
— traffic congestion in Ocracoke Village;
— lack of recreational opportunities;
wetlands protection;
solid waste system on Ocracoke Island; and
— historic preservation in Ocracoke Village.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V -33

1
POLICY
Hyde County supports the provision of governmental services to its
citizens and 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 provision of solid waste disposal, law
enforcement, and educational services to all citizens of the
County.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will continue to provide governmental services
including solid waste disposal, law enforcement, and
educational services to all areas of the County at current
service levels.
,
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of subdivision
'
regulations for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations for
,
the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
,
assistance to study the development of a signage ordinance
for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will study the use of prison labor to clean up
and remove debris from road rights -of -way.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
,
assistance to study the development of a capital improvement
plan.
'
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
- --- assistance to study the development of a shoreline access
_
plan.
'
• Hyde. County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a recreational
facilities plan.
,
• Hyde County will, as projects become economically feasible.
improve and expand its water and sewer systems.
'
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and technical assistance
- to study ways to mitigate traffic congest -ion and parking-- -
problems on Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will study the implementation of County -wide
mapping, structure numbering, and emergency reporting
,
telephone systems (E-911).
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-34 I

L
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to develop -property identification maps.
• Hyde County will enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance.
• Hyde County will review and/or amend the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance as development patterns change or new
patterns occur on Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will rely on existing local, State, and Federal
land use regulations including CAMA, 404 regulations,
sanitary regulations, the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance, and the Hyde County building inspection program to
manage growth and promote orderly development.
3. Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired
BACKGROUND
Ocracoke Village is the most densely populated area of Hyde
County. The compact development pattern in the Village makes no
distinction between residential, commercial, or
public/institutional uses. Future development in Ocracoke Village
will be controlled in large part by the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance and the policies in this land use plan. The
County desires to maintain the quiet historic fishing village
character of Ocracoke Village. Mixed commercial and residential
uses will continue. Policy statements contained in this chapter
should help promote the urban growth patterns desired by
residents.
Ocracoke Island's land use trends include:
— increasing traffic congestion:
— development in AECs:
' _ decreasing water quality. especially in Silver Lake:
increasing threat of ground and surface water pollution as
the number of sewage disposal facilities increase:
— increasing density of both residential and commercial
development:
— 'threatened loss of Ocracoke Village's aesthetic appeal and
historic character: and
-
loss of visual access to the Silver Lake shoreline.
Growth that will occur on the mainland will be along existing
' State routes and to a greater degree in and around Fairfield,
Engelhard, and Swan Quarter.
' POLICY
Hyde County supports the maintenance of its rural atmosphere, the
preservation of the natural environment. and the location and
concentration of commercial and environmentally compatible
industrial development on the mainland in areas that are already
similarly developed or in public or private industrial parks.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-35

4.
Hyde County supports growth and development at the densities '
specified in the land classification definitions contained in this
land use plan update.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES '
Hyde County wil: rely on existing local. State, and Federal
land use regulations, including CAMA..404 regulations, '
sanitary regulations, the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance, and the Hyde County building inspection program to
manage growth and promote orderly development. '
Hyde County wile seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of subdivision
regulations for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations for '
the mainland and Ocracoke Island. - - - - -
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
'
BACKGROUND
The most significant redevelopment issues facing Hyde County
'
through 2007 are substandard housing, historic preservation, and
reconstruction following a major storm.
Dilapidated structures exist on the mainland, particularly in
'
Engelhard and Swan Quarter. The Engelhard Harbor area is the most
adversely affected by substandard structures. The County will
benefit from improved control of structural conditions. The County
'
should consider revising its minimum housing code. A strengthened
code will have less impact on Ocracoke Village because of the
limited number of substandard structures. Generally. Hyde County
does not desire to displace families or unreasonably require
'
building demolition. However, the County has preferred that
buildings which are a health hazard and which detract from
community appearance be removed.
'
The County must also consider the identification and protection of
historic structures and resources. See page IV-55.
Another redevelopment concern is reconstruction following a
hurricane or other natural disaster. Section G., Storm Hazard
Mitigation, Evacuation, and Post -Disaster Reconstruction which
'
follows on page IV-64, provides a general action guide as well as
policies for responding to hurricanes or other na_tLral disasters.
,
POLICY
Hyde 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. '
WRT\9703-NOV-2
IV-36

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek State and Federal financial and
technical assistance for community improvements. The County
may apply for Community Development Block Grants for the
rehabilitation of areas of substandard housing after
'
identifying same.
-0
'
Hyde County will consider revising its minmum housing code.
• Hyde County will allow the reconstruction cf any structures
demolished by natural disaster which will comply with all
'
applicable local and State regulations.
• Hyde County will accept donations of unbui-dable lots.
0 Hyde County will consider the need to purchase unbuildable
lots on a case -by -case basis.
-�0
Hyde County will cooperate with owners who may -have-to-move
threatened structures to safer locations and will expedite
local permit approvals.
at densities as
• Hyde County will support reconstruction
specified by the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance, but
will allow that an existing home destroyed by a natural
'
disaster may be replaced in kind.
• Hyde County will coordinate redevelopment efforts with the
Hyde County Building Inspections Department.
5. Commitment to State and Federal Programs
'
BACKGROUND
Hyde County is generally receptive to State and Federal programs,
particularly those which provide improvements to the County.
Hyde County generally supports State and Federal programs which
are deemed necessary, cost-effective, and within its
'
administrative and fiscal capabilities. These include:
— Community Development Block Grant Program:
Area Agency on Aging:
'
_
Emergency Medical Services:
— Job Training Partnership Act (JTPA) Work Program:
Coastal Area Management Act:
Small Business Association:
-
— Economic Development Administration Revolving Loan Program:
----- - -
— _- - — United States Department of Agriculture, -Rural-Development — --_»
Federal Grant Program:
'
— Federal Emergency Management Program:
— Aid to Families with Dependent Children:
MEDICAID: and
'
_
North Carolina Department of Transportation.
Examples of other State and Federal programs that are important to
and supported by Hyde County include: drainage planning and
erosion control activities carried out the U.S.D.A. Soil
1 WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-37

Conservation Service: dredging and channel maintenance by the U.S. '
Army Corps of Engineers: State and Federal projects which provide
efficient and safe boat access for commercial and sport fishing;
National Parks Service programs; State and Federal support of the '
Ocracoke Airport; and programs to support adequate water and sewer
service for the mainland and Ocracoke Village.
The Board of Commissioners, of itself and through its boards, '
commissions, committees, and staff, monitors State and Federal
programs and regulations — voicing support or disagreement as
deemed necessary. The County supports CAMA and its regulatory ,
mechanisms.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports State and Federal programs. '
However, the County reserves the right to object to 404 wetlands
regulations and the designation of additional outstanding resource '
waters within the County.
Hyde County opposes expansion of military restricted airspace in '
eastern North Carolina.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County. through its boards, commissions, committees, and
staff, 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
regulations that are proposed by State and Federal agencies.
• Hyde County will attempt to obtain Community Development '
Block Grant funds for infrastructure -related projects.
• Hyde County will encourage the private sector to provide '
rental housing for middle income citizens.
• Hyde County will seek State and Federal -grant monies to ,
install or expand infrastructure in areas where feasible.
• Hyde County will selectively support other State and Federal
programs related to Hyde County. ,
6. Channel Maintenance and Beach Nourishment
BACKGROUND '
Proper. maintenance of channels is very important to Hyde County '
because of the substantial economic impact of commercial fisheries
and tourism. Maintenance of the Far Creek Channel and the Swan
Quarter Channel are vital to the County's commercial fishing
interests. If silt or other deposits fill in the channels, safe '
and efficient movement of commercial fishing. recreational
vehicles. and transport vessels could be impeded.
Safe anchorage sites were identified cooperatively through the
Coastal Initiatives Program by Hyde County and Department of
Economic and Community Development personnel. Identification of
WRT\9703-NOV 2
IV-38 '

these sites provides increased safe anchorage areas -and attracts -
'
boating traffic to mainland Hyde County.
Dredging and beach nourishment are considered advantageous on
Ocracoke Island as these efforts help to protect NC 12 from
'
storms.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports establishment of a State program for the
regular maintenance and dredging of the Far Creek Channel and the
Swan Quarter Channel.
Hyde County supports adding the secure/safe anchorages which exist
along its shoreline to the State Boating Map.
Hyde County supports cooperation with the United States Soil
Conservation Service to map canals, ditches, and streams.
Hyde County does not oppose construction of new dra-i-nage-ditches --
or maintenance of existing drainage ditches.
L
1
1 WRT\9703-NOV-2
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will encourage the North Carolina Department of
Commerce to take a lead role in the effort to establish a
State program for regular maintenance and dredging of the Far
Creek Channel and the Swan Quarter Channel.
• Hyde County will seek the assistance of the United States
Coast Guard in marking channels.
• Hyde County will request assistance from the United States
Coast Guard to remove abandoned or sunken vessels.
• Hyde County will request that the United States Soil
Conservation Service take the lead role in providing
technical assistance to accomplish "snagging" and general
cleanup.
• Hyde County will request that cleanup programs be coordinated
among local. State. and Federal agencies as appropriate.
• Hyde County will consider providing part of the cost of a
general cleanup with the remaining portion coming from the
State.
• Hyde County will request that local, State, and Federal
agencies work together to develop a plan of acti-on -t"eal
with abandoned or sunken vessels.
• Hyde County will request that all sand and dredge spoil
materials be stockpiled.
IV-39

7. Energy Facility Siting and Development
a. Electric Generating Plants ,
There are no electric generating plants located in or
proposed for Hyde County. Further, there are no power lines '
or natural gas lines in the County capable of supplying or
supporting any significant industrial development.
Except for the Tideland Electric Membership Cooperative '
electric cogenerating facilities, there are no major
corporate or publicly -owned electric generating plants
located on or proposed for Ocracoke Island. Some private
generating facilities do exist.
POLICY ,
Hyde County generally supports the development of natural gas
or petrochemical energy facilities or related improvements on
the mainland, but reserves the right to oppose such '
- facilities on Ocracoke Island or its surrounding waters.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ,
• Hyde County will review proposals for development of
electric generating plants on a case -by -case basis, '
judging the need for the facility (whether for the
mainland or Ocracoke Island) against identified
possible adverse impacts.
• Hyde County will rely on State and Federal agencies '
with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
development regulations to monitor and regulate '
energy facility siting and development.
b. Inshore and Outer Continental Shelf Exploration
BACKGROUND
This has not been an issue in Hyde County as the County
considers the possibility of the siting of an energy
'
production facility within its borders to be remote.
However, the County could find itself the host for staging
and support activities and facilities for energy -related
'
industries.
POLICIES
'
Hyde County does not oppose — on the mainland — drilling
- operations and onshore support facilities for which an
Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared with a
finding of no significant impact on the environment.
However, on or around Ocracoke Island, Hyde County reserves
the right to oppose the location of such facilities.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on State and Federal agencies
,
with regulatory authority, as well as existing local
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V -40

I
n
development regulations to monitor and regulate
inshore and outer continental shelf exploration.
• Hyde County will rely on the State to rigorously
review drilling or exploration proposals and support
State efforts to mitigate any adverse affects such
activities may cause.
8. Tourism
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III. Section B., part 8., item b.(9) and part 9., item
b. on pages III-41 and III-52 respectively.
Ocracoke Village continues to be a strong attraction for thousands
of visitors each year. Hyde County recognizes the importance of
its tourist industry, and through policy statements in this land
use plan, is working to protect and enhance those attractions and
services which help promote tourism on Ocracoke.
Parking and congestion problems at the Ocracoke Lighthouse
continue to increase.
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports the efforts of the North Carolina
Department of Transportation to improve access to the County.
Hyde County generally supports projects that will increase public
access to shoreline areas.
Hyde County generally supports the activities of the North
Carolina Division of Travel and Tourism; specifically. the
monitoring of tourism -related industry and efforts to promote
tourism -related commercial activity and efforts to enhance and
provide shoreline resources.
' Hyde County supports development of the Engelhard and Swan Quarter
--- Harbors as community focal points and tourist attractions.
' Hyde County generally supports North Carolina Department of
Transportation projects to maintain access to Ocracoke Island.
Hyde County is not opposed to the transfer of the Ocracoke
Lighthouse to the County or other agency as designated by the
County.
' IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will encourage the development of tourist
' attractions associated with the proposed Pomeiooc Indian
Village project.
• Hyde County will consider and seek assistance for the
establishment of a tourist/visitors center to be located at
the intersection of US 264 and NC 45. This location will
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-41

RE
serve traffic traveling through the County and traffic '
— — traveling to and from the Ocracoke -Swan Quarter ferry_ Hyde
County will seek technical assistance from the State '
(Division of Travel and Tourism) to develop plans and
guidelines for the center and to identify sources of funding.
In addition, the County will consider the need and seek '
assistance for the establishment of a second center on US 264
at the Octagon House.
Hyde County will consider and seek assistance for '
improvements to visual and pedestrian access to the harbors.
• Hyde County will consider the development of plans to address
public and private improvements to make Engelhard more
'
attractive to tourists and visitors. The key elements of
such a plan may include but are not limited to:
I
— removal of dilapidated buildings adjacent to the
harbor;
— removal of all abandoned or sunken vessels;
'
— establishment ofa-local and maritime history museum;
— development of a public parking lot;
— development of a shoreline access site;
— preservation of the existing US 264 bridge crossing
the upper end of the Engelhard Harbor;
— development of a landscaping plan for public right-
of -way surrounding the intersection of US 264 and
'
Engelhard Harbor; and
— development of picnic/park facilities adjacent to the
harbor area.
,
• Hyde County will investigate strategies such as providing
self -guided tour materials or promoting and cooperating with
the functions and committees of the Chamber of Commerce to
'
increase tourist activity at local historic sites.
• Hyde County will study options and alternatives to provide
'
greater and easier access to the Ocracoke Lighthouse such as
parking areas and shuttles.
Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access
'
BACKGROUND
'
The provision of safe and convenient public water accesses would
help to promote the attractiveness of the County's environment and
natural areas for tourists. Respondents at public informational
,
meetings were asked to indicate their opinion about expenditure of
public funds to provide public shoreline access facilities.
Support was given for use of public funds to develop and maintain
shoreline accesses within the County.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the provision of access to the shores for its
residents and visitors.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-42 I

'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a shoreline access
plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a recreational
'
facilities plan.
10. Types, Densities, Location, and Units Per Acre of Anticipated
Residential Development and Services Necessary to Support Such
Development
BACKGROUND
Hyde County does not have subdivision or zoning regulations.
However, the County enforces the Ocracoke Village Development
'
Ordinance.
POLICY
Hyde County supports land use practices and regulations that:
'
promote the health and general welfare of its citizens:
_
provide adequate light and air;
— prevent the overcrowding of land;
avoid undue population concentrations; and
facilitate the adequate provision of transportation, water,
sewer, educational and public facilities, recreation, and
other public requirements.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
'0
assistance to study the development of subdivision
regulations for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
'0
Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations for
the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
'0
technical
Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or
assistance to study the development of a signage ordinance
'
for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
'
assistance to study ways to mitigate traffic congestion and
parking problems on Ocracoke Island.
_
Hyde County wi-11 enforce the Ocracoke Village Development
'
Ordinance.
• Hyde County will review and/or amend the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance as development patterns change or new
patterns occur on Ocracoke Island.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-43

'
• Hyde County will rely on existing local. State, and Federal
-_ - -- land use regulations including CAMA. 404 regulations,
_
sanitary regulations, the Ocracoke Village Development
Ordinance, and the Hyde County building inspection program to
'
manage growth and promote orderly development.
11. Existing Tax Base and Employment Opportunities
'
BACKGROUND
'
Hyde County desires to expand its economic base -- particularly on
the mainland -- to include or enhance tourism, commercial fishing,
retail and wholesale trade, real estate and construction, and
industrial development. Many businesses in Hyde County may be
'
unfamiliar with the assistance available through the State's
community development economic development programs. The Hyde
County Chamber of Commerce is a tool to remedy this situation.
'
The Chamber of Commerce has been very active and successful in
promoting Hyde County's businesses and efforts to attract economic '
development. The County's strong Chamber of Commerce will be an
asset during the planning period. Currently, the Chamber boasts
193 members, up from a 1995 membership of 86. The Chamber uses a ,
newsletter and routinely fields calls concerning tourist -related
opportunities in Hyde County.
There is no in -county technical training beyond the high school '
level. Training programs that focus on general business
development skills and technical training relating to existing
businesses and service industries should be encouraged. '
POLICY
Hyde County supports efforts to improve the quality of and access
to educational opportunities for its citizens.
Hyde County supports the efforts of the Hyde County Chamber of ,
Commerce and Economic Development Task Force.
Hyde County supports the recruitment and siting of environmentally '
compatible industry and commercial establishments on the mainland
in areas that are already similarly developed on in public or
private industrial parks.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ,
• Hyde County will solicit private investors to open and/or ,
operate facilities and services including:
— restaurants;
motels;
— marina facilities;
— Pamlico Sound fishing charters:
— bed/breakfast facilities; '
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-44 I

— mainland and sound nature tours (including Lake
Mattamuskeet): and
4--
2
— other tourism related facilities and services.
'•
Hyde County will request the assistance of the North Carolina
Community College System and the North Carolina Agricultural
Extension Service to investigate the need for and options
available to establish in -county post -high school technical
'
training.
• Hyde County will request representatives of the Department of
Economic and Community Development, Division of Community
Assistance to conduct a seminar to explain and promote the
Community Assistance Program.
'0
Hyde County will request assistance from the Albemarle
Commission to conduct a survey of the incomes of business and
property owners to determine owner eligibility for possible
'
grant -funded commercial rehabilitation.
• Hyde County will request assistance from the State to prepare
'
competitive applications for funds.
• Hyde County will coordinate economic development plans and
'
activities with the Chamber of Commerce.
• Hyde County will encourage and work with the Chamber of
'•
Commerce on programs to promote Hyde County.
Hyde County will encourage community events such as:
craft shows, bake sales, and bazaars;
Engelhard Seafood Fest:
— Swan Days;
Fairfield Heritage Bass Tournament:
Mattamuskeet Bike Ride/Art Show: and
— Big Bass Blowout - Pungo River
' Hyde County will consider applications for Small Business
Community Development economic development funds on a
case -by -case basis.
' 12. Signs
BACKGROUND
Although no specific sign ordinance has been developed for the
entire County, the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance
addresses some aspects of sign placement on the island.
POLICY
Hyde County supports properly placed and tastefully designed signs
within its borders.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-45

13
14
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES I
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations for I
the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical '
assistance to study the development of a signage ordinance
for the mainland and Ocracoke Island.
Community Appearance and Litter Control and Removal '
BACKGROUND
The County has a litter problem. Citizens and professional staff ,
have discussed the need for more action regarding eliminating
roadside and beach litter. Programs such as "Adopt -a -Highway" ,
have been implemented.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the formation of a Community Appearance
Committee to be appointed by the Board of Commissioners. The
Committee would select recipients of Community Appearance Awards
and advise the Board on methods by which the community's
'
appearance -might be improved including. studies and recommendations
as may be necessary to address the problem of litter on beaches
and along roads.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will appoint a Community Appearance Committee
with a charge to establish guidelines and procedures for
community appearance awards and to conduct studies and make
recommendations addressing problems of litter on beaches and
'
along roads.
• Hyde County will promote "Adopt -a -Beach" and/or "Adopt -a-
,
Highway" programs and educate the public through local media
concerning community appearance needs.
• Hyde County will consider locating recycling containers at
,
beach accesses. if developed, and the installation of
roadside litter receptacles.
'
• Hyde County is using prison labor to clean up and remove
debris from road rights -of -way.
Recreational Facilities
BACKGROUND '
The National Park Service provides an extremely important
recreational resource to Ocracoke Island and the nation. The Cape
Hatteras National Seashore is vital to the economy of Ocracoke I
Village.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-46 I

' The pier at the Swan Quarter Wildlife Refuge has been destroyed
and will be replaced. This facility will provide unusual Pamlico
- Sound fishing opportunities to residents and tourists.
' An access site at Engelhard Harbor is needed. The access point
should be designed for visual enhancement.
t
A shoreline access site providing pedestrian access to Swan
Quarter Bay should be established. This site could be located at
Long Point with access from the Swan Quarter ferry terminal site
or at the end of a private road extending to Swan Quarter Bay off
NC 45. This site would provide visual access to an extensive
marsh area and pedestrian access to the shoreline. This would
also provide fishing and crabbing opportunities.
POLICY
Hyde County supports, subject to available funds, a comprehensive
recreational program to provide a broad range of recreational
facilities for its citizens.
Hyde County supports utilization of -State shoreline access funds
to provide improved pedestrian access to Engelhard Harbor.
Hyde County supports an application for State shoreline access
funds for an access at Swan Quarter Bay.
Hyde County supports improved pedestrian and vehicular access to.
Lake Mattamuskeet and its shoreline.
Hyde County supports private recreational development along the
Lake Mattamuskeet shoreline and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Hyde County supports aesthetic, building, and access improvements
to the Swan Quarter dock area.
Hyde County supports the construction of boardwalks along the
Pungo River in the Ponzer area.
Hyde County supports a sewage pump -out facility for.boats at the._._
National Park Service marina.
Hyde County opposes the placement of Adopt -A -Highway signs in the
Cape Hatteras National Seashore or anywhere along NC 12.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will ask and encourage the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service to maintain its facilities in usable condition.
• Hyde County will request assistance of=therCAMA staff in
investigating access sites and preparing applications.
• Hyde County will continue to invite the National Park Service
to designate a nonvoting representative to attend meeting of
the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-47

15
16
• Hyde County will encourage non-profit organizations and '
businesses to continue to adopt segments of NC 12 without the
posting of a sign.
• Hyde County will offer to appoint nonvoting representatives '
to committees of the National Park Service engaged in long-
range planning for the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
• Hyde County will request that the National Park Service not
issue any commercial leases or permits for retail sales and
food concessions on National Park Service property.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a capital improvement
1
plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a shoreline access
,
plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a recreational
facilities plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and technical assistance
,
to study ways to mitigate traffic congestion and parking
problems on Ocracoke Island.
'
Public Safety
BACKGROUND
'
Public safety in Hyde County is provided by the Hyde County
Sheriff's Department and the North Carolina State Police. See
Chapter III. Section B. part 4, item f., on page III-17. Hyde
'
County boasts one of the lowest crime.rates in North Carolina.
POLICY
'
Hyde County generally supports efforts, programs, laws, and
regulations that create a safe, crime free environment for its
citizens and visitors.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES ,
• Hyde County will continue to support and fund the Hyde County
Sheriff's Department.
• Hyde County will rely on State and Federal law enforcement '
agencies and personnel for crime prevention and crime _
investigation services. '
Education
BACKGROUND '
The Hyde County School Board and administrative staff.are charged
with maintaining, operating, and staffing the Hyde County School ,
WRT\9703-NOV-2
IV-48 I

System and facilities. See Chapter III. Section B. part 4, item
d., on page III-16.
POLICY
Hyde County supports the provision of elementary and secondary
education to all Hyde County citizens. It supports the
' establishment of a biology field station and environmental
education center at the Lake Mattamuskeet Lodge by East Carolina
University.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will continue to support and fund its public
' school system.
17. Electrical Facilities
' BACKGROUND
-- See Chapter III. Section B. part 4, item h., on page III-19.
POLICY
' Hyde County supports programs and efforts to provide an
affordable, adequate, and dependable supply of electric power with
reserve capacity and looping designs.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will encourage electrical service provider(s) to
provide facilities and services to ensure adequate supplies
of uninterruptable electric power to the citizens of the
County.
' 18. Cable Television Facilities
BACKGROUND
Cable television services are provided to the Engelhard and Swan
Quarter areas of the mainland and to Ocracoke Village by Hyde
' County Cable Television.
POLICY
iHyde County supports programs and efforts to provide affordable,
adequate, and dependable cable television services.
' IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will encourage cable television service
' provider(s) to provide facilities and service to ensure
affordable, adequate, and dependable cable televison services
to the citizens of Hyde County.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-49

19. Public Water Facilities I
BACKGROUND
'
See Chapter III, Section B.. part 4, item a., on page III-13 and
Chapter III, Section C., part 4., item a., on page III-58.
POLICY
I
.
Hyde County supports the extension of- central -water-._service into
all 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.
'available
'
Hyde County supports all efforts to secure State and
Federal funding for the construction and/or expansion of public
and private water systems.
,
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
_._ Hyde -County will continue to -work with the Ocracoke Sanitary
'
District to supply safe drinking water to everyone in
Ocracoke.
• Hyde County will work to ensure that water systems are
'
constructed with lines designed and sized for adequate fire
protection and sufficient water pressure.
'
• Hyde County will consider the adoption of a local ordinance
requiring water -conserving plumbing fixtures in all new
construction on Ocracoke Island.
'
• Hyde County will not encourage the construction of large
commercial water users on Ocracoke Island which rely on
public water supply.
'
• Hyde County will consider the adoption of a local ordinance
designed to regulate water consumption.
,
20. Public Sewer Facilities
BACKGROUND
'
A priority on the Hyde County mainland -is the establishment of
central sewer systems for Engelhard, Swan Quarter, Ponzer,
,
Fairfield. Middleton, Nebraska, Slocumb, and Sladesville. The
establishment of these systems will be expensive and
environmentally complicated. Further, no one source of funding
,
will probably be sufficient. State, Federal, local, and private
- funds will be required. = - - --.
With respect to Ocracoke Village, the 1992 Plan states: Growth and
'
development consistent with this land use plan can be obtained
with properly designed individual septic tank systems. The
provision of public sewage on Ocracoke Island may result in higher
'
development density that would increase stormwater runoff and
generally
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-50
'

contribute to development in excess of the Island's carrying
'
capacity. In addition. there is no adequate location on or off
- - - Ocracoke Island to dispose of sewage from a central system.
Therefore. development of a public sewer system is not appropriate
for Ocracoke Village. Malfunctioning septic tanks should be
inspected by the Hyde County Health Department and corrective
action recommended for implementation by the owner.
'
POLICY
--Hyde-County supports the discharge of effluent into 404 -- - -
(freshwater) wetlands areas on the mainland but does not support
the installation of package treatment plants and septic tanks that
discharge waste in areas classified as coastal wetlands or 404
wetlands in Ocracoke Village.
Hyde County supports wetlands "created" to aid in treating waste
'
effluent.
Hyde County supports the extension of central sewer service into
all areas of the County mainland including the construction of
lines to`and through conservation areas to servedevelopment which
meets all applicable State and Federal regulations.
Hyde County supports all efforts to secure available State and
Federal funding of the construction and/or expansion of public and
private sewer systems.
'
Hyde County supports the development of central sewer system(s) to
serve the Engelhard. Swan Quarter, Ponzer. Fairfield. and
'
Sladesville communities.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will identify and contact State and Federal
agencies that provide typical and non -typical funding sources
for assistance in providing central sewer to the mainland.
' Hyde County will request that the State establish an
interagency task force to work directly with the Hyde County
Board of Commissioners and Manager to identify solutions and
1 sources of funding.
• Hyde County will enforce current development regulations of
the North Carolina State Building Code and District Health
Department relating to building construction and septic tank
installation/replacement in areas with soils restrictions.
• Hyde County will coordinate development activity with
appropriate County and State regulatory personnel, and in
particular. with the Hyde County Sanitarian.
• Hyde County will 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.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-51

21.
• Hyde County will consider studying water shed pollution and ,
causes and mitigation measures including technology for
smaller or individual sewer systems which could minimize or '
eliminate the sources of pollution.
Transportation System
a. Beautification '
BACKGROUND I
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is
responsible for maintenance of State roads in Hyde County and
providing ferry service. See Chapter.III, Section B., part '
5., items a., b., c., and d., on pages III-19 through III-24.
POLICY ,
Hyde County supports visual improvement of the entrances to
Swan Quarter. Three improvement areas exist: 1) the '
intersection of US 264 and NC 45: 2) the intersection of
US 264 and SR 1129: and 3) the intersection of NC 45 and
SR 1129.
Hyde County supports participation in the North Carolina
Department of Transportation (NCDOT) Adopt -A -Highway program.
Hyde County reserves the right to oppose controls which are '
deemed to limit economic development.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES '
• Hyde County will seek assistance from the NCDOT
Division of Highways to design a planting/landscaping '
plan for selected intersections.
• Hyde County will solicit local civic organizations to '
commit to the beautification of selected areas which
will require initial labor for construction/planting
and long-term regular maintenance.
• Hyde County will request NCDOT. Division of Highways
to implement its wildflower research project and the
Adopt -a -Highway program along US 264 from the Hyde ,
County Airport, west to the Hyde County line.
b. Ferry System ,
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B.. part 5., item b., on page III-23 '
and Section C.. part 5., item b., on page III-61.
The County realizes the need for and potential positive '
impact of high-speed day ferry service between Ocracoke
Island and the mainland. Such service would increase tourist
accessibility to Ocracoke and provide the mainland labor base
access to the island to support the tourist -related service ,
establishments. High-speed ferry service may be operated as
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V-52 I

either a public or private venture. This would also assist
'
with evacuation of Ocracoke Island.
POLICY
Hyde County supports the preparation and implementation of a
landscaping plan by the North Carolina Department of
Transportation for the ferry terminal facilities at Swan
'
Quarter.
Hyde County supports establishment- of- a_farmer- s-market-an
ferry terminal property.
Hyde County supports the establishment of a high speed day
'
ferry or pedestrian ferry between Ocracoke Island and the
mainland.
Hyde County supports relocation of the mainland ferry
'
terminal from Swan Quarter to the Outfall Canal.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will lobby for the relocation of the
mainland ferry terminal from Swan Quarter to the
'
Outfall Canal.
• Hyde County will encourage NCDOT to utilize "annuals"
which will add color to the site if a landscaping
'
plan for the ferry terminal at Swan Quarter is
developed.
1
c. Vehicular Movement
BACKGROUND
Traffic congestion in the Village is a problem that cannot be
solved easily. Highway improvements that would degrade the
r
natural and cultural environment of Ocracoke Village should
not occur. Many Ocracoke residents would rather tolerate
--- traffic congestion than have the aesthetic quality of the
community degraded by highway improvements. Many residents
prefer that Hyde County work with NCDOT to establish State
right-of-way policies for roads within Ocracoke Village to
protect the aesthetics of buildings and for consistency with
the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance.
Ocracoke is concerned with oceanfront erosion on NC 12.
Relocation of the highway to alleviate erosion problems is a
possible solution. Relocation of the Hatteras Ferry site
should occur if relocating the highway cannot be
accomplished.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-53

POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the development of a transportation plan
for Ocracoke Island which would address, at a minimum:
'
— provision of off-street parking;
— vehicular/pedestrian traffic conflicts;
'
— high-speed pedestrian ferry access to the mainland;
— replacement of the Oregon Inlet bridge;
- - — possible relocation of the mainland terminal of the
Swan Quarter/Ocracoke ferry;
'
— preservation of Ocracoke's residential streets;
— shuttle bus operation to beach areas and provision
for parking and recreation park outside Ocracoke
'
Village in the National Seashore Park Area;
— street improvements;
— protection of and improvements to NC 12; and
— continued operation and improvement of the Ocracoke
'
Island Airport.
Hyde County supports the development of an Outer Banks Rail
Loop to provide rail service to and through the County.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
'
• Hyde County will seek the aid of the North Carolina
Department of Transportation to develop a
comprehensive transportation plan.
'
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and technical
assistance to study ways to mitigate traffic
t
congestion and parking problems on Ocracoke Island.
• Hyde County will study the implementation of county-
wide mapping. structure numbering, and emergency
'
reporting telephone systems (E-911).
• Hyde County will request speed limit studies and
r
adjustments as cases present themselves or as
development patterns dictate.
• Hyde County will study alternatives to provide
additional public parking on Ocracoke Island, at or
adjacent to the Ocracoke Police Station.
22. Uses Of and Activities In and On Ocean. Rivers. and Sound
BACKGROUND
'
- -Conflicting uses -and --activities occurring in or on ocean and sound
waters along Hyde County's borders could cause problems and
j
generate complaints. Legislation passed in 1994 by the NC General
Assembly allows localities to exercise police power in water
bodies along their borders.
'
L-1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V - 54 I

' POLICY
Hyde County supports the exercise of legislatively authorized .�
local police power to separate conflicting water uses and
' activities in and on the ocean and sound waters along its borders.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
' Hyde County will study and may develop and adopt regulations
concerning uses and activities on and in the ocean and sound
waters along its shores.
23. Point Source Wastewater Discharge
BACKGROUND
Protection of the natural environment of Hyde County and its
' appeal to visitors necessitates protection of groundwater and
surface waters from point source wastewater°discharge.
POLICY Hyde County generally supports --
but reserves the right to object
to amendments and/or changes thereto -- 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 natural environment of Hyde County. It
also supports the use of best management practices recommendations
of the United States Soil Conservation Service and applicable
regulations of other State and Federal agencies with regulatory
' authority, as well as on existing local development regulations to
mitigate threats to the natural environment.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources. Division of Coastal
' Management, to regulate development in coastal wetlands and
along estuarine shorelines and to protect waters through the
CAMA permitting process. Also, it will rely on the
' regulations of other State and Federal agencies with
regulatory authority, as well as existing local development
regulations.
' 24. Cultural or Historical Resources
BACKGROUND
The National Register/Study List Roster indicates properties or
- districts which are:
— listed in the National Register of Historic Places;
determined by the Keeper of the Register as eligible for
' listing; —
determined eligible by Federal agency and State Historic
Preservation Office concurrence:
' WRT\9103-NOV-2 IV-55

List for
'
— placed on the Study as potentially eligible the
National Register and worthy of additional study; and/or
— designated as historic by a local preservation commission.
,
The following listing was provided by the North Carolina
Department of Cultural Resources. Division of Archives and
History. Archaeology and Historic Preservation Office. It
'
includes sites on the National Register. Study List Entries, and
Local Landmark/District Designations:
— Amity Methodist Episcopal Church
'
— Blackwell-Carter-Midgette House (Laura Blackwell House)
— George V. Credle House and Cemetery
— Fairfield Bridge ACOE
'
Fairfield Historic District
— Fairfield Methodist Church
— Hyde County Courthouse
— Hyde County Plantation District
,
— The Inkwell (Octagon House)
— Lake Landing Historic District
— Lake Mattamuskeet Pump Station (Federal Nomination)
— Ocracoke Light Station (Federal Nomination)
— Ocracoke Historic District
— Ocracoke Lighthouse Keeper's Quarters (Federal Nomination)
'
— St. George's Episcopal Church
— St. John's Episcopal Church
— Albin B. Swindell House and Store
— Wynne's-Folly
'
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the preservation of important cultural
resources and supports local. State, and Federal efforts to
protect historic properties within its borders and to perpetuate
'
its cultural heritage..
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
,
• Hyde County will guide development so as to protect historic
and potentially historic properties and perpetuate its
cultural heritage.
,
• Hyde County will encourage a county -wide survey of historical
sites by local volunteers or State and Federal agencies and
will seek grant monies for the complete inventory of
'
historically significant structures and sites.
• Hyde County will coordinate housing code enforcement-
'
redevelopment projects with the N.C. Division of Archives and
History. to ensure that any -significant architectural- details
or buildings are identified and preserved.
• Hyde County will coordinate public works projects with the
N.C. Division of Archives and History, to ensure the
identification and preservation of significant archaeological
'
sites.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-56 I

Hyde County will support historic preservation districts and
'•
commissions in Engelhard, Lake Landing, Ocracoke, Fairfield,
and Swan Quarter and will seek financial and technical
'
assistance to study the development of zoning regulations
which would include historical areas.
• Hyde County will request assistance from the Division of
Archives and History in the development of historic districts
'
and ordinances.
Hyde County may revise the Ocracoke Village Development
'•
Ordinance to require coordination of redevelopment in
Ocracoke Village with the NC Division of Archives and
History, to ensure that any significant architectural details
'
or buildings are identified and preserved.
• Hyde County may study the development of a historic district
ordinance or historic preservation regulations•to be
'
incorporated into the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance.
It will request that a representative of the Division of
Archives and History be assigned to work with Hyde County in
the development of controls. Historic preservation controls
should comply with North Carolina General Statutes.
t•
Hyde County will, until such time as a historic commission
may be established, notify (through its Building Inspector)
the Ocracoke Preservation Society, Inc. any proposals to
'
demolish buildings.
• Hyde County will encourage efforts to maintain and repair
historic structures in Ocracoke Village.
• Hyde County will study regulations to require that
redevelopment efforts be consistent with the historic
'
preservation policies contained in this plan update.
• Hyde County will request that the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers preserve and display the Fairfield Bridge at its
'
current location as a historic site.
25. Facilities for Physically Challenged Persons
BACKGROUND
Hyde County recognizes the need to make buildings and facilities
'
accessible and available to physically challenged persons.
'
POLICY
Hyde County generally supports efforts, initiatives, and programs -
both public and private -- that provide new buildings and
'
facilities, or serve to make existing buildings and facilities,
accessible and available to physically challenged persons.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-57

IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek State and Federal technical and
financial assistance to provide facilities for physically
challenged persons.
26. Hospital and Access to Medical Care
BACKGROUND
The need for such facilities was voiced by those attending public
input sessions conducted during the course of this plan update.
POLICY
Hyde County supports efforts and initiatives to provide quality,
affordable health care to its citizens and also supports the
construction of a hospital or primary care facility in or near the
County.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will lobby State legislators and officials for
consideration when area -wide health services plans are
discussed for inclusion as a candidate for a hospital or
primary care facility.
27. Picnic Areas
BACKGROUND
The need for picnic facilities was voiced by many of those
attending public input sessions conducted during the course of
this plan update.
POLICY
Hyde County supports, subject to available funds, a comprehensive
recreational program to provide a broad range of recreational
facilities -- including picnic facilities -- for its citizens.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical -
assistance to study the development of a shoreline access
plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a recreational
facilities plan.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-58

'
28. Public Water Accesses
BACKGROUND
'
The National Park Service boat ramp provides boating access for
the public on Ocracoke Island. However, improvements in water
depth, including construction of jetties or protective barriers
for the boat launching area, are necessary for public safety. To
prevent more traffic congestion and the destruction of natural
resources, many residents prefer that no new commercial boat ramps
be constructed on Ocracoke Island. -Private boat ramps for
'
individual residents should comply with all State and Federal
regulations and the policies contained in this plan update.
Pedestrian access which is consistent with the policies contained
'
in this plan will be supported.
Visual access to estuarine areas on Ocracoke Island is important
and will be protected through the Ocracoke Village Development
'
Ordinance. In order to effectively accomplish this, amendments to
the ordinance may be required to provide for increased setbacks in
'
estuarine shoreline areas.
POLICY
'
Hyde County supports the State's shoreline access policies as set
forth in Chapter 15A of the North Carolina Administrative Code.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a shoreline access
plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a recreational
facilities plan.
• Hyde County will consider participation in State- and
'
locally -sponsored shoreline access projects.
29. Coastal Airspace
BACKGROUND
See Chapter III, Section B., part 8., item a.(1), on page III-30.
POLICY
'
Hyde County opposes the expansion of any restricted airspace
within its boundaries or jurisdiction.
'
Hyde County supports the following aircraft operations standards
which were adopted by the Coastal Resources Commission
(Commission) on December 1. 1989, and became effective March 1.
'
1990:
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-59

a. Minimum Altitudes I
No development involving airspace activity shall be allowed
in any AEC which would result in violation of minimum ,
altitude standards adopted by the Federal Aviation
Administration and codified at 14 CFR Part 91.79. Future
amendments by the Federal Aviation Administration shall be '
deemed to be incorporated into this rule pursuant to N.C.G.S.
150E-14(c) unless the Commission objects within 90 days of
publication of the action in the Federal Register. '
Upon objection by the Commission to a change, the Commission
shall initiate rule making proceedings on incorporation of
the amendment into this rule. The amendment will not be ,
incorporated into this rule pending a'rule making hearing and
final action by the Commission on the proposed amendment.
b. Noise Pollution
Except as required for safe aircraft takeoff and landing
operations, airspace activity associated with coastal
'
development shall not impose an increase in average noise
exceeding 10 dB above background levels. Noise measurements
shall be normalized Ldn as set forth by the Environmental
Protection Agency in its report 550/9-74-004 entitled
Information on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to
"Protect the Public Health and Welfare with an Adequate
Margin of Safety". The maximum noise level associated with
'
any single event shall not exceed 85 dB. These limits shall
not apply where noise impacts are confined to surface areas
owned or controlled by the project's proponent. Any noise
'
monitoring required to ensure compliance with this rule shall
be the responsibility of the proponent.
c. Use of Coastal Airspace
It is hereby declared that the use of aircraft by State,
Federal and local government agencies for purposes of
managing and protecting coastal resources, detecting
violations of environmental laws and regulations, and
performing other functions related to the public health,
safety and welfare serves a vital public interest. The
Commission further finds that future economic development in
the coastal area and orderly management of such development
requires air access to and among coastal communities.
It is the policy of the State of North Carolina that access
corridors free of special use airspace designations shall be '
preserved along the length of the barrier islands and
laterally at intervals not to exceed 25 miles to.provide
unobstructed access both along the coastline and from inland ,
areas to the coast. Such access corridors shall extend from
the surface to an altitude of 6,000 feet above sea level
except where communication and radar services allow positive
aircraft control at lower altitudes. '
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-60 I

Development of aviation -related projects and associated
airspace management practices shall, to the maximum extent
practicable, facilitate use of aircraft by local=, State and-
Federal government agencies for purposes of resource
'
management, law enforcement and other activities related to
the public health, safety and welfare. In any case, access
to restricted areas shall be provided on a periodic basis for
'
routine enforcement flights, and access shall be provided on
an emergency basis when required to respond to an immediate
threat to public health and safety.
'
d. Water- and Wetlands -Based Target Areas for Military Training
Activities
The use of water- and wetlands -based target areas for
military training purposes may -result in adverse impacts on
coastal resources and on the exercise of public trust rights.
'
The public interest requires that, to.the maximum extent
practicable, use of such targets not infringe on public trust
rights, cause damage to public trust resources, violate
existing water quality standards, or result in public safety
hazards.
It is the policy of the State of North Carolina that all
trust waters subject to surface water restrictions
public
pursuant to 33 USCS 3 for use in military training shall be
opened to commercial fishing at established times appropriate
'
for harvest of the fisheries resources within those areas.
Where laser weaponry is used, the area of restricted surface
waters shall be at least as large as the recommended laser
safety zone.
Water quality shall be tested periodically in the surface
'
water restricted areas surrounding such targets and results
of such testing shall be reported.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
r
Division of Coastal Management and other State and
Federal agencies with regulatory authority to
regulate and monitor the use of coastal airspaces.
30. Private Sewage Utilities
BACKGROUND
Concern was voiced by those attending public input sessions
during the course of this plan update regarding the potential
development and maintenance of private sewage utilities.
IWRT\9703-NOV-2 I V -61

POLICY
Hyde County does not oppose, on the mainland, the
construction and operation of private sewage utilities.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina
Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
Division of Coastal Management and other State and
Federal agencies with regulatory authority to
regulate and monitor the construction and/or use of
private sewage utilities.
31. Mosquito Control
BACKGROUND
The need for mosquito control measures was voiced by those
attending public input sessions during the course of this plan
update.
POLICY
Hyde County supports State and Federal efforts and initiatives to
control mosquitoes.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will seek State and Federal assistance to
initiate progress to control mosquitoes.
32. Solid Waste and Recycling
BACKGROUND
Throughout the planning period, the Hyde County solid waste program
will continue to contract for solid waste collection and disposal.
The County will also continue to provide convenience sites.
POLICY
Hyde County supports efforts and measures to efficiently and
economically collect and dispose of solid waste, and supports
recycling and the establishment and maintenance of recycling
centers.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will enforce the solid_waste.ordinance which
addresses illegal dumping and abandoned/inoperable vehicles.
33. Dredging
BACKGROUND
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers now dredges areas in Hyde County
and wants the County to cost -share participate. Historically. the
County has not participated in cost -sharing for dredging.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-62

POLICY
Hyde County supports regulated dredging activities by governmental
' entities but does not support the expenditure of County funds for
such activities.
'
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Hyde County will rely on the North Carolina Department of
Environment and Natural Resources, Division of Coastal
Management and other State and Federal agencies with
'
regulatory authority to regulate and monitor dredging
activities.
34. Facilities for Senior Citizens
BACKGROUND
'
The need for such facilities was voiced by those attending public
input sessions conducted buring the course of this plan update.
POLICY
Hyde County supports efforts and initiatives to provide or
'
construct safe and accessible facilities for senior citizens.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
technical
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or
assistance to study the development of a recreational
'
facilities plan.
• Hyde County will seek grant monies and/or technical
assistance to study the development of a capital improvement
'
plan.
F. Public Participation
BACKGROUND
Rule .0215-Public Participation, Subchapter 7B, of the North Carolina
Administrative Code, March 5, 1996, (NCAC 03/05/96) requires localities
to:
. . . employ a variety of educational efforts and participation
techniques to assure that all segments of the community have a full
and adequate opportunity to participate in all stages of plan
'
development.
The Public Education and Citizen Participation Plan is designed to give
the public an opportunity to voice its views on all required policy items
throughout the 1997 County of Hyde North Carolina CAMA land Use Plan
Update (1997 Update). As described herein, several public education and
citizen participation strategies will be used by the County to accomplish
'
this objective and thus fulfill legal requirements.
Educational efforts may include, but are not limited to, newspaper
articles, public service announcements, and direct mail. Participatory
techniques may include, but are not limited to, neighborhood meetings,
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-63

questionnaires, newsletters, and presentations to civic, business, church
and citizens' groups. To encourage public participation at meetings, the
public should be informed of each public meeting in multiple ways, rather
than relying only on a legal notice.
The NCAC 03/05/96 requires "For all Land Use Plans, a concise Citizen
Participation Plan shall be prepared and adopted by the local government ,
at the beginning of the planning process. The Citizen Participation Plan
shall be included in the Land Use Plan." See APPENDIX 4. "At a
minimum, the plan shall include the following: . _ I
- A designation of the principal local board, agency, or department
responsible for preparing or updating the Land Use Plan. I
- An explanation of the various means of soliciting public
participation such as citizen surveys, questionnaires,
informational brochures, and/or community outreach.. t
A schedule of the various opportunities for public information and
participation with specific dates. '
An explanation of how the public will be notified of its
opportunities for input."
POLICY
Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily through the Board ,
of Commissioners, with advertised and adequately publicized public
meetings held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens
informed. '
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
• Hyde County will continue to use advertisements in newspapers, ,
radio public service announcements, and direct mailings to announce
meetings and encourage participation by citizens, interest groups,
news media, and other interested parties. '
• Hyde County will ensure that meeting notices will be posted on
bulletin boards and information desks where appropriate.
• Hyde County officials will make efforts to attend civic club
�- meetings to further expose the planning process to the public.
• Hyde County will ensure that Board of Commissioners and Ocracoke '
Planning Advisory Board meeting agendas include a public comment
item. '
G. Storm Hazard Mitigation. Evacuation, and Post -Disaster Reconstruction
1. Introduction
The purpose of this section is to assist Hyde County in managing
development in potentially hazardous areas through establishing '
hazard mitigation policies, and to reduce the risks associated with
future hurricanes by developing post -disaster reconstruction -
recovery policies, and reviewing the adequacy of current evacuation ,
plans. This section is consistent with and supports the Hy-da
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V- 64 1

'County
Hurricane Evacuation Plan. The overriding concept of this
exercise of time.
Hazard mitigation includes any activity which reduces the
'
probability that a disaster will occur, or minimizes the
damage caused by a disaster. Hazard mitigation includes not
'
only managing development, but also evacuation planning and
other measures to reduce losses of life and property.
Reconstruction involves the full range of repair activities
in the wake of a disaster which seek to return the community
to a "normal" level of operations. (McElyea, Brower, &
Godschalk, p. iii).
This plan will rely upon joint Federal -State -local procedures to
'
provide assistance to rebuild following a storm. This must be done
to qualify Hyde County for Federal assistance.
'
The requirements are generally delineated in the Disaster Relief
Act of 1974 (P.L. 93-288) which authorizes a wide range of
financial and direct assistance to both local communities and
individuals. The sequence of procedures to be followed after a
'
major storm event is as follows:
— Local damage assessment teams survey storm damage withi.n the
'
community.
— Damage information is compiled and summarized, and the nature
'
and extent of damage is reported to the North Carolina
Division of Environmental Management (DEM).
— DEM compiles local data and makes recommendations to the
'
Governor concerning State action.
— The Governor may request a Presidential declaration of
"emergency" or "major disaster." A Presidential declaration
makes a variety of federal resources available to local
communities and individuals.
— Federal relief assistance provided to a community after an
"emergency" has been declared typically ends one month after
the initial Presidential declaration. Where a "major
disaster" has been declared. Federal assistance for
"emergency" work typically ends six months after the
declaration and Federal assistance for "permanent" work ends
'
after 18 months.
2. Storm Hazard Mitigation
BACKGROUND
-
r
Hazard mitigation, or actions taken to reduce the probability -or
impact of a disaster, could involve a number of activities or
policy decisions. Recent mitigation efforts undertaken by Hyde
County include the Swan Quarter dike to protect vulnerable areas
'
from storm surges and flooding and County efforts to promote the
removal of trees along US 264 from Rose Bay west to eliminate
potential roadblocks resulting from fallen trees during a storm.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-65

The starting point in hazard mitigation is to identify the types of
'
hazards (including the relative severity and magnitude of risks)
_.
and the extent of development (including residential, commercial,
etc.) located in storm hazard areas.
'
Hurricanes are extremely powerful, often unpredictable forces of
nature. The two most severe effects are fatalities and property
,
damage, which are usually the result of four causes: high winds,
flooding, wave action, and erosion, each of which are discussed
briefly below.
'
High winds are the major determinants of a hurricane, by
definition, i.e., a tropical disturbance with sustained winds of at
least 74 miles per hour. Extreme hurricanes can have winds of up
'
to 165 miles per hour, with gusts up to 200'miles per hour. These
winds circulate around the center or "eye" of the storm. Although
the friction or impact of the winds hitting land from the water
causes some dissipation of the full force, there is -still a.
,
tremendous amount of energy left to cause damage to buildings,
overturn mobile homes, down trees and power lines, and destroy
crops. Also, tornadoes are often spawned by hurricane wind -
' -
patterns. Wind stress is an important consideration in storm
hazard mitigation planning. Because of a hurricane's size and
power, it is likely that all of Hyde County would be subject to the
same wind velocity in the event of a storm.
Flooding, on the other hand, may not affect all areas with equal
intensity. The excessive amounts of rainfall and the "storm surge"
'
which often accompany hurricanes can cause massive coastal and
riverine flooding causing excessive property damage and deaths by
drowning. (More deaths are caused by drowning than any other cause
'
in hurricanes.) Flooding can cause extensive damage in ocean
coastal areas because of the storm surge and low-lying areas.
However, flooding can cause extensive damage in inland areas also,
since many coastal areas have low elevations and are located in
high hazard or "Zone A" flood areas according to the Federal
Emergency Maps.
,
According to the flood insurance study for Hyde County, prepared by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the "dominant"
_ source of flooding in Hyde County is storm surge generated in the
Atlantic Ocean by tropical storms and hurricanes. In addition, this
surge propagates into Pamlico Sound and further propagates into the
Pamlico River. Lake Mattamuskeet, and a multitude of small water
courses where high winds associated with tropical storms can
'
produce high waves. Based on Hyde County flood insurance maps,
nearly all of the county isclassified as being in the 100-year
"high hazard" flood zone, or Zone A. (There is, however, an
,
extensive area of "Zone C. i.e., minimally flooded area, in the
"
west part of the County.). Because of low elevation, nearly all of
_
the county would be subject to flooding during a several hurricane
(See MAP 3. F1ood,Hazard Areas, Hyde County, North Carolina).
As MAP 3 shows, virtually all of the "development" in Hyde County ,
is in the high hazard Zone A areas. Ocracoke is located entirely
in a Zone A area.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-66 I

' Flooding cannot only cause damage to buildings, but saltwater
flooding can cause serious damage to croplands, which is what took
place in the Albemarle region in 1954.and 1955 from Hurricanes
' Hazel, Connie, Dianne, and Ione (McElyea, Brower, & Godschalk,
pp. 2-8. 9). Substantial saltwater flooding occurred in the
northeast areas of Hyde County, south of the Alligator River.
Freshwater flooding appears to have occurred in other parts of the
' County. Consideration of potential flood damage is important to
Hyde County's efforts to develop storm mitigation policies.
Damage from wave action is connected very closely to the storm
'
surge, i.e., wind -driven water with high waves moving to vulnerable
shoreline areas. As the previously cited flood study noted, 'The
wave action associated with storm surge can be much more damaging
'
than the higher water level." Areas most likely to be affected are
ocean erodible areas and estuarine shoreline areas. There are no
ocean erodible areas in Hyde County's jurisdiction since in
'
Ocracoke the ocean beaches are part of the Cape Hatteras National
Seashore. However, there are extensive estuarine shoreline areas
(75 feet inland from the mean high water mark of estuarine waters)
.in the County. However, wave action damage would have the most
significant impact along the Pamlico Sound shoreline, in particular
on Ocracoke Island. As the existing land use maps (MAP 1, Hyde
County Mainland; MAP 2. Ocracoke Island) and the flood hazard areas
map (MAP 3) show, fortunately there are not significant amounts of
residential development in or near the estuarine shoreline area on
the Hyde County mainland. And even on Ocracoke, there is very
'
little development immediately adjacent to the sound. Wave action
can cause erosion as well as push possible flood waters to areas
not reached by the storm surge itself. The estuarine shoreline
along Hyde's riverine shoreline, i.e., Pungo River and the
Alligator River, is sufficiently inland from an open coast so that
wave energy is dispersed and diffracted.
'
The final major consideration in storm hazard mitigation is severe
erosion caused by high winds, high water, and heavy wave action.
Again, in Hyde County, the area most susceptible to storm -related
erosion is the estuarine shoreline AEC along the Pamlico Sound on
'
both the mainland and Ocracoke Island. This is essentially the same
area potentially affected by the action of damaging waves.
Shoreline erosion could lead to loss of property through portions.
'
of waterfront lots being washed into the sound or even actual
structural damage to buildings. Although most of the shoreline
along the sound is undeveloped marshlands, erosion potential is an
important factor to consider in developing storm hazard mitigation
policies.
All four of the major damaging forces of a hurricane, (i.e., high
'
winds, flooding, wave action, and shoreline erosion) could have a
potential impact upon Hyde County in the event of a major storm.
rAccording
to CAM planning guidelines, policy statements should
also address the following three areas:
— Means of dealing with structures and uses which do not
conform to hazard mitigation policies.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-67

Means of encouraging
commercial structures
areas.
hotels, restaurants, and similar large ,
to locate outside of erosion -prone .
Policies which deal with the acquisition of parcels located
in hazard areas, or rendered unbuildable, for the purpose of
public access.
All existing structures which do not conform to the County's
mitigation policies can only be subject to the existing
regulations. No additional requirements will be imposed. The
latter two policy areas, above, cannot be effectively addressed by
Hyde County, since they appear to be more applicable to oceanfront
areas. The oceanfront area on Ocracoke Island is under
jurisdiction of the U.S. Park Service.
Evacuation considerations are important to mitigate threats to
human life and health in the event of a storm. Hyde -County, in the
Hyde County Emergency Operations Plan, has planned for the
coordinated evacuation and re-entry of the County population if
necessary during emergencies. Efforts are being made to -identify
special evacuation problems. Due to the geographical nature of
Hyde County (land masses joined by bridges or ferries) combined
with the forces of wind and water, there is significant potential
for large populations of people to become isolated. Evacuation and
re-entry routes through adjacent counties are prone to flooding, as
are certain roads in Hyde. Evacuation from Ocracoke could
necessitate travel through Dare County.
POLICY
Hyde County supports enforcement of the N.C. State Building Code,
particularly requirements of construction standards to meet wind -
resistive factors, i.e., "design wind velocity." The County will
also support provisions in the State Building Code requiring
tiedowns for mobile homes, which help resist wind damage.
Hyde County supports the hazard mitigation elements of the National
Flood Insurance Program.
Hyde County generally supports -- but reserves the right to object
to amendments and/or changes thereto -- the CAMA development permit
process for estuarine shoreline areas. However, all shoreline
stabilization and drainage projects must be consistent with the
policies contained in this plan.
IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGIES
Hyde County will continue to support the County -wide building
inspection program, with the services of a building
inspector, enforcing provisions of the N.C. State Building
Code for new construction. These provisions will include
designing for wind resistance and mobile home tiedowns for
newly -placed mobile homes.
Hyde County will enforce its Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance. The ordinance requires basic floodproofing for
all new construction, including all first floor elevations
1-1
L_
1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-68 I

' being at or above the base flood elevations, and will be
enforced as part of the County's building inspection program.
3.. The base flood elevations as shown on the flood insurance
' maps are the elevations of the 100-year flood.
• The County will continue to support enforcement of State and
Federal programs which aid in mitigation of hurricane
' hazards, including CAMA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
404 permit process.
' 3. Reconstruction
Hyde County recognizes that in the event of a major storm, it will
' be very important to have, at a minimum, a general recovery and
reconstruction plan. This section of the land use plan update will
address this issue.
' a. Post -Disaster Recovery Team
Prior to a major storm having landfall in the vicinity of
Hyde County, when evacuation orders are issued, the Chairman
of the County Board of Commissioners, who is the head of the
control group as stated in the evacuation plan, shall appoint
' a "Post -Disaster Recovery Team." This team shall consist of
all of the members of the evacuation plan support group also
identified in the Hyde County evacuation plan, and others
whom the chairman may appoint. The total team may consist of
the following:
1. County Manager
' 2. County Finance Officer
3. Emergency Preparedness Coordinator (team leader)
4. Sheriff - Law Enforcement
5. County Building Inspector
' 6. Director of Social Services
7. County Health Director
8. Superintendent of Schools
' 9. Fire Marshall/Fire Chief
10. Tax Supervisor
11. Chairman of the Ocracoke Sanitation District
12. Rescue Chief
13. Public Information Officer
14. Red Cross Representative
15. National Park Representative
The Emergency Preparedness Coordinator will serve as the team
leader and will be responsible to the Chairman of the Board
of Commissioners. The base of operations will be the
emergency operations center (EOC) identified in the County
evacuation plan (the County Courthouse in Swan Quarter). The
Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for:
— establishing an overall restoration schedule;
' — setting restoration priorities;
determining requirements for outside assistance and
WRT\9703-NOV-2 I V - 69

a
c.
'
requesting such assistance when beyond local
capabilities;
— keeping the appropriate County and State officials
'
informed;
— keeping the public informed;
'
— assembling and maintaining records of actions taken
and expenditures and obligations incurred;
'
— recommending that the Chairman of the Board of
Commissioners proclaim a local "state of emergency"
if warranted;
,
— commencing and coordinating cleanup, debris removal
and utility restoration which would include
'
coordination of restoration activities' -undertaken by
private utility companies;
— coordinating repair and restoration of essential
public facilities and services in accordance with
determined priorities; and
'
— assisting private businesses and individual property
owners in obtaining information on the various types
of assistance that might be available from Federal
and state agencies.
'
Immediate Cleanup and Debris Removal
'
Coordination of this activity will be the responsibility of
the Post -Disaster Recovery Team.
'
Long Term Recovery/Restoration
The Post -Disaster Recovery Team will be responsible for ,
overseeing the orderly implementation of the reconstruction
process after a major storm or hurricane in accordance with
the County's policies. '
(1) Damage Assessments
Damage assessments will be necessary to determine as '
quickly as possible a realistic estimate of the
amount of damage caused by a hurricane or major
storm. Information such as the number of structures '
damaged, the magnitude of damage, and the estimated
total dollar loss will need to be developed.
As soon as practical after the storm, i.e., after
clearance of major highways and paved roads in the
County, the Post -Disaster Recovery Team Leader shall
set up a Damage Assessment Team (DAT) consisting of '
the building inspector, emergency preparedness
coordinator, a local realtor or building contractor,
and appropriate personnel from the Hyde County Tax I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-70

Department. The DAT will immediately begin to make
"windshield" surveys of damaged structures to
initially assess damages and provide a preliminary
dollar value of repairs or replacement. The
following general procedures and criteria should be
utilized:
The flood insurance policy coverage for property
owners in flood hazard areas should be updated before
each hurricane season. This can be accomplished in
concert with mortgage institutions. Annual updates
should be kept available in the Hyde County Manager's
office and Ocracoke Sanitation District office for
estimating the value of sustained damages covered by
hazard insurance.
In order to produce the damage value information
required, the following methodology isirecommended:
The number of businesses and residential
structures that have been damaged should be
summarized by damage classification category.
The value of each damaged structure should be
obtained from the marked set of tax maps and
multiplied by the following percentages for
appropriate damage classification category:
— Destroyed - 100%
— Major Damage - 50%
— Minor Damage (uninhabitable) - 25%
— Habitable - 10%
The total value of damages should be
summarized.
— The estimated value loss covered by hazard
insurance should then be determined by:
1) estimating full coverage for all damaged
structures for situations where the average
value of such coverage exceeds the amount of
damage of the structure; and 2) multiplying
the number of structures where damage exceeds
the average value of insurance coverage by the
average value of such coverage.
— Damage assessment reports should be obtained
from the assessment teams and the data should
then be consolidated into a single County
damage assessment report which should be
forwarded to the appropriate State officials.
Damage to public roads and utility systems
should be estimated by utilizing current
construction cost for facilities by lineal
foot (e.g.. 10' water line replacement cost
X$/LF).
IV-71

'
— In order to estimate total damage values, Hyde
County should have the following information
available for use at the County Manager's
office and the Ocracoke Sanitation District
,
office:
— A set of property tax maps (including
'
aerial photographs) identical to those
utilized by the OAT.
— County maps delineating areas assigned
to each team.
— Copies of all County property tax
,
records. This information should
indicate the estimated value of all
commercial and residential structures
,
within the County. Because time will be
of the essence. it is recommended that
the County immediately commence a
'
project listing the property values of
existing structures in unincorporated
areas of the County on the appropriate
lots of the property tax maps that will
'
be kept at the Emergency Operations
Center. While a somewhat tedious job,
it should be manageable if it is
'
initiated now and completed over a 2- to
3-month period. The information will
prove invaluable if a storm disaster
does occur. This set of tax maps should
'
be updated annually prior to the
hurricane season.
'
— Each damage assessment will be
documented according to county tax
records. Also. County tax maps
,
(including aerial photographs) and/or,
records may be used for identification
purposes. The total estimated dollar
y` value of damages will be summarized and
'
reported to the Post -Disaster Recovery
Team Leader.
,
(2) Reconstruction Development Standards
Generally, reconstruction shall be held at least to
the same standards as before the storm. However,
'
developed structures which were destroyed and which
did not conform to the County's storm hazard
mitigation policies, i.e., with basic measures to
reduce damage by high winds, flooding, wave action or
erosion, must be redeveloped according to those
policies and the policies contained in this plan. In
'
the event the loss of property containing shoreline
structures is substantial enough to prohibit the
reissuing of a septic tank permit, the County will
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-72

support the decision of the Sanitarian. In some
'
instances, this may mean relocation of construction,
or no reconstruction at all. To the extent feasible.
'
when relocation is required, such relocation will be
placed in less hazardous areas. Building permits to
restore destroyed or damaged structures which were
built in conformance with the State Building Code and
County storm hazard mitigation policies shall be
'
issued automatically. All structures suffering major
damage will be repaired according to the State
Building Code. All structures suffering minor
'
damage, regardless of location, will be allowed to be
rebuilt to the original condition prior to the storm.
'
(3) Development Moratoria
Hyde County, because of a lack of densely populated
areas, does not foresee the need to prohibit any and
'
all development for any specified period of time on
the mainland. Residents shall be allowed to proceed
with redevelopment and reconstruction as soon as
and in accordance with the various levels
practical
of State and Federal disaster relief provided to
them. Damage to the properties in some areas of the
'
County may indicate a higher susceptibility to storm
damage than other areas. If the County determines
that some areas are more vulnerable to storm damage
than others, the Board of Commissioners may declare a
'
development moratorium, prohibiting all redevelopment
for a specified period of time. This will allow the
'
County time to assess previous damage mitigation
policies for their effectiveness and possible
modification.
An interim development moratorium may be required on
'
Ocracoke Island in order to give Hyde County time to
assess damages and to make sound decisions. Such a
moratorium must be temporary and must be reasonably
'
related to the public health, safety and welfare.
It is not possible to determine prior to a storm
'
whether a temporary development moratorium will be
needed. Such a measure should only be used if damage
on Ocracoke Island is very serious and if
redevelopment of the Island in the same manner as
'
previously existed would submit the residents of the
area to similar public health and safety problems.
The Hyde County policy regarding the proclamation of
a temporary development moratorium shall be to:
Require the Hyde County Recovery Task Force to assess
whether a Temporary Development Moratorium is needed
on Ocracoke Island within one week after the damage
assessment process is completed. Such an assessment
'
should clearly document why such a moratorium is
needed, delineate the specific uses that would be
WRT\9703-NOV-2
I V-73
F I
u

WRT\9703-NOV-2
affected by the moratorium, propose a specific ,
schedule of activities and actions that will be taken
during the moratorium period, and establish a ,
specific time period during which the moratorium will
be in effect.
(4) Repair/Reconstruction Schedule '
EXHIBIT 4, which follows on page IV-75. provides a
schedule of repair/reconstruction activities
realizing that many factors resulting from a
hurricane may render the schedule unfeasible.
(5) Agency Responsible for Implementation ,
The Chairman of the Hyde County Board of
Commissioners, as chief elected official of the '
County, will serve as emergency coordinator. The
Board Chairman will delegate the oversight of the
reconstruction and recovery effort and implementation '
of the plan.
(6) Repair and Replacement of Public Utilities '
If water lines or any component of the water system
are damaged and it is determined that sewage
treatment facilities and/or roads can be relocated to '
a less hazardous location, then they will be
relocated during reconstruction.
(7) Permitting ,
— Building permits to restore structures located '
outside of designated AEC areas that were
previously built in conformance with local
codes, standards, the provisions of the North '
Carolina Building Code and the Ocracoke
Village Development Ordinance shall be issued
automatically.
— All structures suffering major damage as ,
defined in the County's Damage Assessment Plan
shall be repaired or rebuilt to conform with ,
the provisions of the North Carolina Building
Code, the Hyde County Flood Damage Prevention
Ordinance, and the Ocracoke Village '
Development Ordinance.
All structures suffering minor damage as J
defined in the Hyde County Damage Assessment
Plan shall be permitted to be rebuilt to their
original state before the storm condition,
provided construction complies with the '
policies of this plan and the Ocracoke Village
Development Ordinance.
IV-74

�J
�II
�J
EXHIBIT 4
REPAIR/RECONSTRUCTION ACTIVITIES AND SCHEDULE
Activity Time Frame
1) Complete initial damage Immediately after storm passes.
assessment.
2) Complete second phase damage Completed by second week after
assessment. the storm.
3) Prepare summary of reconstruction
priorities.
4) Decision with regard to
imposition of temporary
development moratorium for
Ocracoke Island.
Completed one week after second
phase damage assessment is
completed.
One week after second phase
assessment is completed.
5)
Set reconstruction priorities and
Completed one week after summary
prepare master reconstruction
of reconstruction needs is
schedule.
completed.
'
6)
Begin repairs to critical
As soon as possible after
utilities and facilities.
disaster.
7)
Permitting of reconstruction
One week after second phase
activities for all structures
damage assessment is completed.
receiving minor damage not
included in Ocracoke development
'
moratorium area.
8)
Permitting of reconstruction
Two weeks after second phase
activities for all structures
damage assessment is completed.
receiving major damage not
included in Ocracoke development
moratorium area.
9)
Initiate assessment of existing
Two weeks after second phase
mitigation policies.
damage assessment is completed.
10
Complete re-evaluation of hazard
The length of the period for
areas and mitigation policies in
conducting re-evaluations and
areas subjected to Ocracoke
receiving input from the State
development moratorium.
should not exceed two months.
11)
Review mitigation policies and
Two months after temporary
'
development standards for areas
Ocracoke Village Development
subjected to Ocracoke development
moratorium is imposed.
moratorium and lift development
moratorium.
10)
Permit new development.
Upon suspension of any temporary
Ocracoke Village Development
'
moratorium.
ISOURCE: 1992 Hyde County CAMA Land Use Plan,
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-75

'
4. Hurricane Evacuation
Both Hyde County and Ocracoke Island have adopted official
"Hurricane Evacuation Plan" documents. The evacuation plan
'
is supported by the Hyde County Civil Preparedness Ordinance
and the Hyde County State of Emergency Ordinance. The
following outline summarizes these plans.
'
— Early alerting of officials and concerned agencies in
the entire County.
'
— Control groups for both Hyde County and Ocracoke will
coordinate activities within and between the two
areas. In addition, the two control groups will
,
coordinate overall direction and decision -making.
_ Increased readiness actions taken progressively as
'
the hurricane approaches and as the threat of injury
and damage increases.
- — Evacuation of residents and visitors on beaches and
'
in threatened low-lying areas upon decision of the
control group.
,
— Primary evacuation of Ocracoke will be in
coordination with Dare County, and evacuees will move
through Dare County. The Cedar Island ferry schedule
'
will be terminated, and all sound -class ferries will
run trips to Swan Quarter as long as possible. The
Hatteras ferries will operate as long as weather
conditions permit. When an evacuation has been
,
ordered, no one will be required to pay a ferry fee
when leaving the Island.
'
— Persons leaving Ocracoke on the last run of the Cedar
Island and Swan Quarter ferries should continue
inland and not require local shelter. These ferries
will not be a major factor in evacuation due to time
'
required for a trip.
— One-way ferry traffic from Ocracoke will be strictly
t
maintained. Only residents, homeowners, and
emergency personnel involved in the evacuation will
be allowed to travel from Hatteras, Cedar Island or
Swan Quarter to Ocracoke. (See Ocracoke Hurricane
Preparation Plan for further details.)
— Movement of evacuees to designated and operating
'
public shelters, or out of Hyde County and the
threatened area.
'
— Mass care for evacuees in predesignated shelters in
accordance with agreements.
— Re-entry of evacuees to evacuated areas when
'
authorized by the control group and when the
hurricane threat has passed or damage assessments
indicate that re-entry is feasible.
'
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-76 '

' — Local governments request State and/or Federal
assistance as necessary before or after a hurricane.
'
5. Re -Entry
Factors regarding re-entry are also included in the &da
County Hurricane Evacuation Plan and the Ocracoke Hurricane
'
Preparation Plan. Because of the possibility of fallen power
lines or telephone lines, re-entry will be closely
coordinated with the utility companies, such as North
'
Carolina Power. Specifically, the hurricane plan states:
— Upon cancellation of all hurricane warnings and
watches which include Hyde County, and when no damage
'
has been experienced, the control group will
authorize re-entry to all evacuated areas.
— When hurricane damages have resulted. -re-entry to
evacuated areas will be based upon damage assessments
and any rescue or other relief operations in
progress. Re-entry will be authorized by the control
'
group to specify evacuated areas and under conditions
specified.
'
— The Ocracoke Emergency Management Control Group will
authorize re-entry to the Island as quickly as
possible. Re-entry by way of Swan Quarter is
advised. Priority of re-entry is outlined in the
Ocracoke plan.
I
I
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 IV-77

1
r
LAND C LAS S I F I CAT I O N
1
1

V. LAND CLASSIFICATION
' A. Introduction
As explained in the introduction to the policy statements, land use plans
' prepared to comply with 15A NCAC 7 B regulations have three areas of
impact on application: (1) to set policy to guide local planning and land
use management decisions: (2) review of projects for consistency with
' local planning policies; and (3) the establishment of local policies for
areas of environmental concern. CAMA regulations require the
establishment of a specific land classification system to support the
local government's policy statements. The CAMA 15A NCAC 7 B regulations
state:
.The land classification system provides a framework to be used by
' local governments to identify the future use of all 'lands. The
designation of land classes allows the local governments to
illustrate their policy statements as to where and to what density
they want growth to occur, and where they want to conserve natural
and cultural resources by guiding growth."
' The CAMA regulations provide for the following land classifications:
developed, urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural
with services, and conservation. These classifications may be further
defined by a local government. In applying these classifications, a local
government should carefully consider where and when various types of
development should be encouraged. Additionally, the areas of
environmental concern requiring protection should be identified and
' mapped. Each applicable land classification must be represented on a land
classification map. See MAP 8, Land Classification System - Mainland and
MAP 9. Land Classification System - Ocracoke Island.
' B. Mainland Land Classifications
Five land classifications apply on the Hyde County mainland.
1 1. Developed Class
t Areas included in the developed land classification are currently
predominantly urban in character. This classification is limited to
Swan Quarter. Engelhard, and Fairfield. Municipal types of services
are in place or are expected to be provided within the next five to
ten years. Land uses include residential (single- and multi-
family), commercial. institutional, transportation, industrial
parks, open space, industrial, and other urban land uses at high or
' moderate densities. Residential densities are allowed in excess of
an average of three dwelling units per acre. All uses allowed by
15A NCAC 7 H shall be permitted.
' 2. Community Class
Areas included in the community classification are presently
' developed at low densities and are suitable for septic tank usage.
This classification includes the communities of Scranton, Gull Rock,
Nebraska. Middleton. and Sladesville. Uses include single-family
' residences. isolated general and convenience stores, churches.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 V -1

public facilities, health care facilities, businesses, industrial ,
development and mixed land uses at low densities. Very limited
municipal type services, including water service, may be available.
Sewer service may be provided to correct an existing or projected '
public health hazard. Residential densities shall average two
dwelling units per acre. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H shall be
permitted.
3. Rural Class ,
Areas included within the rural classification include lands that
are appropriate for or presently used for agriculture, forestry,
,
mineral extraction, and other uses that should be located in a
relatively isolated and undeveloped area. The predominant land uses
are agricultural and residential. However, public facilities,
'
health care facilities, on -site water and sewer systems, hazardous
or noxious uses, industrial and commercial uses are allowed. In
=- addition, all uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H shall be permitted.
Rural water systems may be available to help avert poor water
'
quality problems. Residential densities shall average two dwelling
units per acre.
'
4. Rural With Services Class
Areas included within the rural with services classification are
developed at very low density. Land uses include residential use
'
where limited water services are provided in order to avert existing
or projected health problems, public facilities, health care
facilities, commercial and industrial uses. All uses allowed by 15A
,
NCAC 7 H shall be permitted. Lot sizes will be large and the
provision of services will not disrupt the primary rural character
of the landscape. Residential densities shall average two dwelling
'
units per acre. Development should be low density in order to
maintain a rural character.
5. Conservation Class
'
Five conservation classifications apply on the Hyde County mainland.
,
= a. Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of
:_- coastal wetlands which include any salt marsh or other marsh
subject to regular or occasional flooding by tides, including
wind tides. However, tidal flooding is understood not to
'
include hurricane or tropical storm tides. All uses allowed
by 15A NCAC 7 H shall be permitted.
'
b. Estuarine Shoreline: All areas lying 0-75 feet landward of the
mean high water level of estuarine waters not designated as
Outstanding Resource Waters are classified as estuarine
,
shorelines. Because of map size and scale, these areas cannot
be accurately mapped. Precise locations must be determined in
the field. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H shall be
permitted.
,
WRT\9703-NOV-2 V- 2 I

1
c. Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Estuarine Shorelines: All
areas lying 0-575 feet landward of the mean high water level
'
of estuarine waters designated as Outstanding Resource Waters
are classified as ORW estuarine shorelines. Because of map
'
size and scale, these areas cannot be accurately mapped.
Precise locations must be determined in the field. All uses
allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H and the applicable ORW management plan
shall be permitted.
d. Estuarine Waters and Public Trust Areas: All public trust
areas and estuarine waters are included in this
classification. All waters of the Hyde County mainland are
'
classified as estuarine waters as described by 15A
NCAC 7 H.0206 or public trust areas as described by 15A
NCAC 7 H.0207. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H shall be
'
permitted.
e. Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW): This area includes all
' waters which have been designated by the North Carolina
Environmental Management Commission as Outstanding Resource
Waters. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H and the applicable
' ORW management plan shall be permitted.
C. Mainland Land Classifications and Land Use Policies
'
As required by Coastal Area Management Act. the land use plan must relate
the policies section to the land classification map, and provide some
indication as to which land uses are appropriate in each land
classification. As an overall objective, Hyde County desires that the
'
mainland land classification system be broadly interpreted to allow
maximum freedom for economic/industrial development.
'
1. Developed Class
The County's mainland growth has primarily occurred in and around
the communities of Swan Quarter, Engelhard, and Fairfield. This
'
trend should continue throughout the planning period. Developed
areas are areas where basic services such as water and community
support services are available or might be feasible within the
planning period. The developed class is specifically designated to
accommodate more intensively developed areas and land uses, includ-
ing single- and multi -family residential, commercial, industrial
parks and open space, community facilities, health care. transpor-
tation and government services to include prisons. All uses allowed
by 15A NCAC 7 H will be permitted. Population densities will be
moderate. The greatest demand for central services will exist
'
within this classification.
' 2. Community Class
Intensive development will not be encouraged in this class due to
the lack of urban services and/or physical limitations. The general
' range of acceptable uses are single-family residences, industrial
development, isolated general and convenience stores and churches,
public facilities, health care facilities and government services to
' include prisons. All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H will be
WRT\9703-NOV-2 V-3
1

3
4.
permitted. The community classification is located in the
communities of Scranton, Bull Rock, Nebraska, Middletown, and
'
Sladesville. Ocracoke reserves the right to study watershed
pollution and causes including the latest technology for smaller or
individual sewer systems which could minimize or eliminate the
,
sources of pollution.
Rural Class
'
The rural class is the broadest of the land classes and is
designated to provide for agriculture, forest management, mineral
extraction and other low intensity uses. Residences may be located
'
within the rural class where urban services are not required and
where natural resources will be not be permanently impaired. Some
large developments may be encouraged in the rural class when there
,
is an absence of otherwise suitable land within the developed and
transition classes and/or when there is a possible adverse
environmental impact to the urban populace from the proposed
'
development. Such large developments or uses include airports, land
application sewer systems, and power plants. Public facilities,
health care facilities, businesses, on -site water and septic tank
use, industrial uses, hazardous or noxious uses, and government
'
services to include prisons are allowed. In addition, all uses
allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H will be permitted.
'
Rural With Services Class
The rural with services classification is to provide for very low- '
density land uses including residential use where limited water
services are provided in order to avert an existing or projected
health problem. Areas meeting the intent of this class are '
appropriate for very low -intensity residential uses where lot sizes
are large and where the provision of services will not disrupt the
primary rural character of the landscape. It is the intent of this
plan that the rural with services classification follow the location ,
of the County's Farmers Home Administration -funded water system.
The corridors following the water lines are intended to be one mile
wide. They extend one-half mile on either side of the road along '
which the classification is located. Other services such as
volunteer fire protection, rescue service, health care facilities
and government services to include prisons are allowed. Business
and industrial development uses and activities should be allowed.
All uses allowed by 15A NCAC 7 H will be permitted.
Conservation Class
The conservation classes are designated to provide for effective
long-term management of significant limited or irreplaceable areas
which include the following categories: coastal wetlands, estuarine
shorelines. ORW estuarine shorelines, primary nursery areas,
estuarine waters and public trust areas, and outstanding resource
waters. Policy statements under Resource Protection, and Resource '
Production and Management in Section V of this plan, address the
County's intentions under this classification. The locations of
this classification are shown on Map 8. All uses allowed by I
15A NCAC 7 H will be permitted.
WRT\9703-NOV-2 V - 4 I

'
D. Ocracoke Island Land Classification
The land classification applied to Ocracoke Island is community.
'
The purpose of the community class is to provide for clustered, mixed land
uses at low densities for housing. Areas meeting the intent of the
community class are presently developed at low densities which are
suitable for private septic tank use. These areas are clustered
'
residential land uses which provide housing opportunities and a local
social sense of "community." Municipal -type services such as fire
protection and community water may be available. The major characteristic
'
which distinguishes community with limited services from the developed and
transition classes is that services are not provided to stimulate intense
development, but rather to neutralize or avert health problems.
'
Lands in this classification provide for a mix of low -density housing and
are not serviced by off -site wastewater treatment plants. Single-family
residential lots dominate this land class. Although developed past the
'
rural stage, this land class is generally. limited in its ability to
sustain urban growth by the absence of wastewater treatment.
'
Uses will be allowed within the community classification which are
consistent with the policy statements in this plan and 15A NCAC 7 H use
standards.
Land Use Policies
E. Ocracoke Island Land Classification and
The Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance is consistent with the land
'
classification map (MAP 9) and the policies contained in this plan.
While the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance does not conflict with
'
the policies contained in this plan, amendments to the ordinance may be
necessary to fully implement the plan's policies. Other regulatory
controls may be required to accomplish implementation of all of the
policies contained in this plan. These include a subdivision ordinance,
vegetation removal ordinance, storm water control ordinance, and zoning
ordinance.
Development will continue through the planning period with "build -out"
expected to occur by 2010 . The entire Island will require full urban
services to accommodate the following land uses: single- and multi -family
'
residential, commercial, parks and open space, transportation, and
community facilities. While industrial development will not be allowed on
Ocracoke, commercial fishing and support activities and traditional
"cottage industries" will be allowed. Urban services will include police
'
protection, fire protection, medical care, emergency medical services,
water service, transportation, and appropriate administrative support.
The policies contained in Chapter IV call for the adoption of local ordi-
nances and amendments to the Ocracoke Village Development Ordinance.
Uses will be allowed within the community classification which are
'
consistent with the policy statements in this plan and 15 A NCAC 7H use
standards.
1
WRT\9703-NOV-2 V- 5

WORKSHOPS AND MEETINGS
The Hyde County Board of Commissioners, staff, and the Ocracoke Planning
Advisory Board met on numerous occasions to discuss land use issues and the
' development of this update. The following sheets reflect much of the activity
of the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board. The Hyde County Board of Commissioners
discussed the !and Use Plan Update at its regular meetings throughout 1997. A
- workshop to discuss policy issues was held on December 15, 1997. A subcommittee
of the Board or Commissioners met with the staff to discuss policy issues on
December 29. 1997. A public hearing on the update was held on the Hyde County
' mainland (at Swan Quarter) on July 20, 1998 at 11:30 a.m. An additional public
hearing was held on Ocracoke on September 8. 1998 at 1:30 p.m. Both hearings
were duly advertised.
1
IWRT\9703-NOV-2 WS & M - 1

MEETINGS HELD TO DISCUSS LAND USE PLAN
Meetings held by the Ocracoke Planning Advisory Board are as follows: ,
The Board's primary function was Land Use -Plan Activities, resolving problems and preparing for '
the future, since its inception in 1993 to January 1997. Consisted of seven members appointed by
the Commissioner after the 1992 Land Use Plan was enacted and all meetings were open to the
public: '
August 17, 1993
August 24, 1993
'
September 7, 1993
September 21, 1993
September 29, 1993
October 4, 1993
October 18, 1993
There were probably other meeting but do not have information, was not passed to the archives of
'
this Board. Meetings were to be held once per month.
October 24, 1994
,
September 6, 1994
October 4, 1994
November 1, 1994
,
December 6, 1994
January 10, 1995
February (missing)
March 7, 1995
April 4, 1995
No Meetings held in May, June, July, August, September or October, or minutes are missing.
November 7, 1995
December 12, 1995
January 9, 1996
r
February 6, 1996
March 5, 1996
April 2, 1996
'
May 14, 1996
June 11, 1996
'
July 9, 1996
August 6, 1996
September 11, 1996
'
October 1, 1996
November 12, 1996 (Quorum was not present)
December 4, 1996
'
January 7, 1997 At this meeting the Board and Commissioner met to decide if duties should be
expanded to include other local problem such as traffic congestion, paridng and any other
WS&M-2

1
' problems in the village including any need for ordinances. It was agreed to broaden the scope of
activities. However, all subjects and ordinances considered since then are all related to the Land
Use Planning. It was also agreed to try and expand public input by sending a letter out to all
' major organizations on the island including the National Park Service, dated February 1, 1997,
signed by the Chairman and Ocracoke Commissioner, asking them to appoint a liaison person to
meet with this board each month to share information, ideas and potential solutions with a one
' point source for any contact with outside governmental agencies on any problems or concerns
through the Commissioners and with their support. This has worked very well and all Liaison
personnel have received copies of all hand-outs and meeting minutes whether they attend or not,
' to be used at their Organization meeting and they in turn return any information and comments to
this Board for use and consideration. Land Use Plan or related subjects continue as the main
' topics of this Board.
February 4, 1997
March 4, 1997 - Two meetings held, one from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. Second meeting started at
7:05 pm, the meeting was turned over to the Hyde County Manager who introduced Mr.
William R. Turner, Consultant for the Land Use Plan Update, who then kicked off work
on this update and gathered information from the audience for use in his development
work on the plan. Adjourned at 9:00 pm.
April 1, 1997
May 13, 1997
June 4, 1997 - Comments on the Land Use Plan Policy Statements by the Board Policy
' Subcommittee were sent to the Consultant, Commissioner and County Manager. Also, marked
copies were discussed with reasons and distributed to all Liaison persons for review and
comment by their organizations. Members of the public are also given handouts and minutes
' when their is enough copies.
July 2, 1997 - Additional comments on the Land Use Plan Policy Statements by the Board
' Policy Subcommittee were discussed and handled same as June 4 meeting above.
August 4, 1997
September 2, 1997
October 8, 1997
November 10, 1997 - Additional comments or changes to prior comments on the Land Use Plan
' Policy Statements were discussed and handled same as June 4 meeting above. Additional
comments are to be sent to the Consultant on the latest draft before Thanksgiving day for
' incorporation in the final issue to be issued for the full Board, Liaison persons and public
comment sometime in mid December.
December 17, 1997
WS&M-3
1

PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE, POLICY SUBCOMMITTEE MEETINGS
03-27-1997 Meet with County Manager, Ocracoke Commissioner, LUP Consultant, State
representative and CAMA, Mr Terry Moore at Swan Quarter, NC
05-07-1997 at Ocracoke
09-04-1997 at Ocracoke
11-05-1997 at Ocracoke
11-20-1997 at Ocracoke
WS&M-4

ABOUT THE
OCRACOKE PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD
February 4,1997
This Board is comparatively new, it was formed in the Spring of 1993 and was Approved by the
Hyde County Board of Commissioners as an Advisory Board only to the Ocracoke Commissioner
' and the Commissioners who.are also the Hyde County Planning Board. The Board we, neededtoo
assist the Commissloncr, David Styron to achieve broad coverage of the Ocracoke Population's
ideas and input to deal with the Land Use Plan at that time and because of the different needs at
Ocracoke and the long distance from the County Seat. The Board has the capability to review,
' study and recommend to the Commissioner and the Hyde County Board of Commissioners,
proposed solutions or changes in planning which can benefit and effect Ocracoke.
' The Board is composed of seven members recommended by the Commissioner sad appointed by
the Hyde County Commissioners. Each member is appointed for a three year term, or to
complete the term of a member they may Dave replaced. At the end of that term they may be
reappointed for three years as may any member at the end of their term. The Board works closely
' with the Commissioner to keep the lines of communication open to achieve a wide variety of
views that accommodate the ideas of the people and to provide their input to our planning and
recommendations.
Officers of the Board are elected each year by the members.
All meetings arc open to the public, scheduled each month at a specific time and place, if the
meeting time is changed it must be posted at the U.S. Post Office and the Community Center with
a minimum of 48 hours during working days prior to any change. Any citizen may be permitted
to speak providing they make a request in advance of the meeting in accordance with the By.
t haws. At the discretion of the Chair Person, the floor may be opened for public input. Members
may be contacted direct by any citizen to ask questions or provide input and suggestions to the
membership for use at the meetings.
The Board is intended to be a non bias organization and to represent all of Ocracoke. It is set up
with abroad representation of the people, so no favoritism 1 shown to any onegroup onber of
or
individual. Board members must attend meetings, subject
rmeetings or are guilty of violating the Board's By -Laws.
The Board, in the last year has broadened out from just the Land Use Plan to address other
ordinances. proposed ordinances, traffic problems and trying to solve some of the large problems,
' by taking them piece by piece and try to make short term decisions on our own, the Ocrawke
residents. It was Wt that many of the problems are so bi& such'as the overall congestion caused
by the large volume of traffic, pedestrian and bicycles during the tourist season, it will, take a long
time,to develop a permanent solution. In the mean time,. the Board has come up with some short
term ideas to help ourselves minimize some of the safety concenas, such as changing the speed
limits within the Village sad possibly providing some type of designated wdEng and bWng lanes
on the water front toad winch could both help business and provide safety for all pedestrian
traffic. Evan these small eadeavontakoa tremendous amount OfWOrk, coordination, � offing the
ents
and interface with many organizedoas, 8ovornraaat, the Commis:iCommissioners', all land owners
route, and many others. Wd nma all the support and input we can get to achicvo some of these
' smaller changes to ease the traffic problem until a permanent solution is found. In the long term
the Commissioner, the Board and Its associates need to keep the pressure on, to develop solutions
that serve all the peoples
This Board has an open door policy and asks for public input, we need your help in defining the
real needs and desires of the people. Join us at meetings and become part of the organizing and
Planning for Ocracoke's future. Its our Village. lots join together and assure we can all remain
' hero, and five in harmony.
11
���;�
gal W. O'Neal
Chairman
WS&M - 5

1997 HYDE COUNTY
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
ISSUES AND CONCERNS
RAISED AT
PUBLIC INPUT MEETINGS:
MARCH 3, 1997
SWAN QUARTER, N.C. ~
AND
MARCH 4, 1997
--- OCRACOKE N.C.
VRT\97-03.LUP
WS&M-6

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AGENDA
• INTRODUCTIONS
• MEETING PURPOSE AND FORMAT
• DISCUSSION OF ISSUES AND CONCERNS
• STRENGTHS
• WEAKNESSES
• HYDE COUNTY IN 2007
• SUMMARY
• LAND USE PLAN PROCESS AND SCHEDULE
• ADJOURN
VRT%97-03.LUP
WS&M-7

1997 HYDE COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
(MARCH 3, 1997 SWAN QUARTER, NORTH CAROLINA)
ISSUES AND CONCERNS
STRENGTHS:
• QUIET
• HOSPITALITY
• NATURAL BEAUTY - RESOURCES
• PEOPLE - GOOD NEIGHBORS - CONCERNED
• WATER
• SOIL/LAN D----------------------AGRICULTURAL BASE
PRODUCTIVE - BECOMING MORE DIVERSIFIED
• ABUNDANT SEAFOOD
• WILDLIFE
• LOW CRIME RATE - LOWEST IN N.C.
• NC FERRY
• HERITAGE/CULTURAL BACKGROUND
HRT\97-07.LUP
WS&M-8

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El
•
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LABOR SURPLUS (300 + IN HYDE COUNTY SEEKING
EMPLOYMENT; 2700 IN LABOR FORCE INCLUDES SEAFOOD )
CORRECTION FACILITY 0 65 HYDE COUNTY EMPLOYEES OF
227 TOTAL; 100 ENTRY LEVEL)
57 CHURCHES
ACTIVE CIVIC GROUPS
.BEAUFORT COMMUNITY COLLEGE ACTIVE IN HYDE COUNTY
AND WORKS WITH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
COMPUTERS IN ALL HYDE COUNTY SCHOOLS CLASSROOMS
• HYDE COUNTY HAS $5 MILLION IN FUNDING EARMARKED FOR
ITS SCHOOLS (TO BE A CENTRAL COMPLEX CONCEPT WITH
PUBLIC LIBRARY)
• ELECTRIC SOURCE (RURAL CO-OP) GREATLY IMPROVED
• WATER SYSTEM
• CURBSIDE TRASH PICKUP
• PEOPLE COOPERATING BETTER
WRT\97-03.LUP
WS&M-9

• STRONG CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (168 MEMBERS - UP 86
MEMBER FROM '95)
WHY? COMMUNICATION
- NEWSLETTER
- PRESS COVERAGE
• TELEPHONE COMPANY - FIBER OPTIC CAPABILITY
(GOOD RELATIONSHIP WITH SPRINT TELEPHONE COMPANY)
• MATTAMUSKEET LODGE
• OUTFALL CANAL
• GOOD POSITIONING FOR GRANTS
• PARTNERSHIPS (EAST CAROLINA UNIVERSITY/PARTNERSHIP
FOR SOUND; NORTHEAST COMMISSION)
• WILDFLOWERS
• ON ATLANTIC FLY -WAY
• GOOD HUNTING AND FISHING
• RETIREES IN HYDE COUNTY
• EXCELLENT HOME HEALTH PROGRAM (50 PATIENTS - WILL
EXPAND; SPEECH AND PHYSICAL THERAPY; NURSING HOME -
80 BEDS - WILL EXPAND)
WRT%97-03. WP
WS&M-10

EAST CAROLINA BANK - LARGEST PRIVATE EMPLOYER
COOPERATION/EFFORTS OF BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
HYDE COUNTY REVOLVING LOAD FUND
AIRPORT (4700' RUNWAY; OFFICES AND INDUSTRIAL PARK)
INTERCOSTAL WATERWAY
BARGE FACILITY AT CARGILL
OCRACOKE
LAKE MATTAMUSKEET
FEDERAL LAND FOR WILDLIFE REFUGES
STATE GAME PRESERVE
LARGEST PEAT MINING OPERATION IN USA
FORESTRY
JO-LEE CERAMICS
ARTS AND CRAFTS
WRT%97-03. WP
ws&M-11

• EVENTS:
- CRAFTS/BAKE SALES/BAZAARS
- ENGELHARD SEAFOOD FEST
- SWAN DAYS
- FAIRFIELD HERITAGE BASS TOURNAMENT
- MATTAMUSKEET BIKE RIDE/ART SHOW
- BIG BASS BLOWOUT - PUNGO RIVER
SENIOR CITIZEN CENTER
NO HOMELESS, NO PAN HANDLING
HOUSING SUPPLY MARGINALLY SUFFICIENT
GOOD TO EXCELLENT FIRE AND RESCUE
24 HOUR SHERIFFS DEPARTMENT
911 SERVICE
GOOD EMS - CIVIL PREPAREDNESS
TOURISM DESTINATION (± 800 INQUIRIES TO CHAMBER OF
COMMERCE IN JAN. & FEB 1997 ALONE)
NRT\97-03.LUP
WS&M-12

ISSUES AND CONCERNS
WEAKNESSES:
• ABSENCE OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT (ALTHOUGH SYSTEM
PROPOSED FOR ENGELHARD)
• INFRASTRUCTURE
- LACK OF RAILROAD
- LACK OF PORT DEEP WATER
• LACK OF 4-LANE ROADS
• COUNTY BUILDINGS
• LACK OF ZONING/SUBDIVISION ORDINANCE
• LACK OF MEDICAL FACILITIES
• LACK OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING
• PER CAPITA INCOME IS HIGH WHICH SOMEWHAT DISTORTS
TRUE SITUATION IN HYDE COUNTY
• LACK OF SKILLED WORKFORCE
• LACK OF RESTAURANTS, LODGING, COMMERCIAL
ESTABLISHMENTS
• LEVEL OF LOYALTY WITH RESPECT TO PATRONIZING LOCAL
BUSINESS
WRT%97-03.IUP
WS&M-13

• SIGNAGE AT BUSINESSES
'
• LACK OF RECREATIONAL FACILITIES -PARKS, BOAT RAMPS,
PICNIC TABLES, GOLF COURSES
'
• MOSQUITOES
'
• LACK OF PLANNER OR ECONOMIC DEVELOPER
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WSdM-14

ISSUES AND CONCERNS
HYDE COUNTY IN 2007:
PROGRAMS TO RECOGNIZE ARTS/CRAFTS .
WASTEWATER IN FAIRFIELD AND SWAN QUARTER
VITAL/GROWING INDUSTRIAL PARK
CONTROLLED GROWTH
USE HISTORY/CULTURE TO ATTRACT TOURISTS
WRT\97-03.LUP
WS&M-15
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::PVNAG rgL-LTIRG SWAN (UAPUVTj MC
S (CON (N S NE1-
WS&M-16

1997 HYDE COUNTY LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
(MARCH 4, 1997 OCRACOKE, N.C.)
ISSUES AND CONCERNS:
• BE REALISTIC IN DISCUSSION FUTURE FACILITIES
• 404 WETLANDS (ANY AMOUNT_ COULD PROHIBIT USE?)
• DOCKS (MEASURE ADJACENT DOCKS AND DIVIDE BY 2?)
• MARINA (4 OR 9 CONSTITUTES?)
• PARKING - GENERAL
• SHUTTLE SERVICE
• PRESERVATION OF OCRACOKE VILLAGE HISTORICAL AREA
• IMPACT OF GROWTH STUDIES NEEDED
• STORMWATER
• 1 /96-NC RULE CONCERNING MOORINGS (OWN ADJACENT
LAND OR IF COUNTY HAS MOORING PLAN)
• TRAFFIC
• SPEED LIMITS
• PEDESTRIAN WALKWAYS
HRT\97-03. WP
WS&M-17

• RECREATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS AND OTHERS (NOW
TO BE FEE BASED?) - PARK SERVICE INVOLVEMENT (FEDERAL
AND STATE MONEY AVAILABLE?)
• MOSQUITO CONTROL DITCHES (MORE HARM THAN GOOD?)
• WETLANDS DEFINITION/DETERMINATION/SAND FOR FILL (REAL
OR ENTRAPPED)
• SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL - 90% (NOW) TO DARE COUNTY
(HYDE COUNTY/DARE COUNTY COOPERATION NEEDED?
MRTX97-03. WP
WS&M-18

'
OCRACOKE PLANNING ADVISOMarch 4, RY BOARD
997
Minutes of the meeting eAld
6:00 p.m. Ocracoke Community Center
ATTENDANCE: 25 persons as follows
Members ?resent: Visitors
'
Earl O'Neal, chair Ocracoke Commissioner, Wayne Teeter
Hyde County Manager, Jeff Credle
'
Marlene Mathews, vchair Guest Speaker
Buffy Warner, secretary Hyde County Bldg Insp, Leon Mooney,
Bill Turner, Guest Speaker, Overman Associates, Cnslt LUP
Rudy Austin
Jerry Midgette Steve Bryan, Hyde Cty Chamber of Commerce
David VanEssendelft, Swan Quarter, NC
'
David F. O'Neal
Keith O'Neal
Monroe Gaskill OPAB Writer, Update Land Use Plan
'
Public
Liaison from other O anizations:
- Peter Breiderbach
Keith Cutler, Rep., OSD Bill Janowitz
Stella S. O'Neal, Chair, OO B Liz Janowitz
Normam Miller, Chair, OBofA -David Shears
Barbara Jemison, Rep, OC&BA Jack Smith
George Roberson, Rep, OPS
Dan Trexler, Park Ranger, NPS
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m, welcomed all and introduced the Guests,
Persons from other Ocracoke Organizations. Also, advise
Members of the Board and Liaison
that Rickey Tillett, President of the OC&BA will be liaison from that organization. He has
Mr. George
also received letters from OPS and the National Park Service, appointing
'
Roberson, OPS and Ranger Dan Trexler as Liaison to this Board.
Meeting Minutes were reviewed, with a motion to approve by Mrs. Mathews,
February
seconded by Mr. Warner and approved by unanimous hand vote of the Board.
along with discussion of handouts
old Business: Chairman O'Neal covered the following,
'
with the February Meeting Minutes.
1. Copy of the newly approved and signed By -Laws are now in effect. He gave a brief
description of some of the rules of conduct for Board Members.
this Board to Other Ocracoke
2. Letter from Wayne Teeter, Commiople ssioner and
Organizations, Subject: Improve Representation by Uniting the Peof Ocracoke to Help
Themselves, dated February 1, 1997 has gone out. Most all.have replied with a positive
at this meeting. We are pleased to
response as noted by the above and persons present
look forward to working together.
welcome all of the Liaison Persons and
3. Letter received from Mr. Randall Mathews, Sprint Telephone on the potential of
12. The response was positive and eluded
pedestrian walks along the water front road Route
their underground lines. Both agreed with the idea to provide
to the fact, it may even protect
for the safety of pedestrians. Mr. Keith Cutler was present representing the Ocracoke Sanitary
this board to
District. The Sanitary District verbal response was positive, except they wanted
inside of the road would need to be broken and removed at spots where
'
realize the walk on the
new or for repair of connections or line breaks may occur. The Chair addressed these items
the sand is dug out at present for
and accepted the walk would need to be violated at times as
later in these minutes, there is a possibility of marl block walks which would
'
repairs. As seen
make it much easier to remove and replace where required. Asked Mr. Cutler if this covered
concerns mments• or if there were other co
their con
WS&M_19

Planning Advisory Board Minutes of March 4, 1997 continued, Page 2 of 4 pages '
4. Chairman O'Neal advised that the Commissioner, Wayne Teeter and he had met
with a representative of DOT, Mr. Jerry Jennings on Friday February 21, 1997 here at '
Ocracoke and discussed the following:
a. The Board's letter to DOT on reducing speed limits at Ocracoke sent by FAX in '
November 1997, by Commissioner, David Styron and then followed recently by County
Manager, Jeff Credle. Jerry is getting in touch with his personnel who are responsible in this '
area.
b. Rain water drainage problem at the intersection of waterfront road Route 12 at
the Anchorage Inn. ,
C. Possibility of Pedestrian walks on both sides of Route 12 along the water front
for safety of pedestrians and helping reduce the congestion on the road. Also, discussed the '
necessity to fix water lines and connections on the inside of the road occasionally. Mr.
Jennings made a suggestion -that marl block walk (blocks are 12" x 18" x 6" thick) may be best
as it is porus and will allow for drainage of rain water. It is easier to take up and put back for '
repair of water lines beneath the walk and easier to bring in by truck and put in place.
Blacktop would be more difficult because of the machinery involved, especially where it needs
to be removed and then replaced. Also, it would define the pedestrian walk with out lines. '
Lines would only be needed in this case where concrete pavement is in place. The Chair has
given Mr. Jennings a copy of the Draft Petition passed out to Board Members to see if that is
the sort of documentation and approval they will require to perform this type work, or to give '
us an idea of what will be required. This draft document is for comment and once we know
how to proceed, it will be given to the County Manager for potential agreement of the
Commissioners and the County Attorney prior to contacting Land Owners for signatures. The '
Chair advised that Mr. Rudy Austin has already talked with many of the waterfront land
owners in the past and received a positive response.
d. Lighthouse Parking problem was discussed.
e. The DOT Report from May 1996 was also discussed. ,
Mr. Jennings, DOT will be contacting the Commissioner, Wayne Teeter with decisions, when '
they aremade.
S. Chairman O'Neal said the up -dated Board Priority List of Subjects passed out is up
to date. However, we'will not have time this evening to review the list.
6. The Chair discussed a copy of letter from the Board to Commissioner, David Styron ,
date March 10, 1996 passed out to Board members, which suggested the possibility of
requesting. money up front for various impact studies. The Board voted down making a
request for funds in the April 1996 meeting. However, it was left open to possibly request
funds in the Up -date of the Land Use Plan. (Items 1 & 3 on the Board's Priority List of
Subjects To Be Considered. The Board needs to re -think this matter, to see if it is appropriate
to include any requests in the Land Use Plan Up -date. r
11
WS&M-20

'
Planning Advisory Board Minutes of March 4, 1997 continued, Page 3 of 4 pages
New Business:
Chairman O'Neal introduced the Guest Speaker, Mr. Leon Mooney, Hyde County
Building Inspector (Ocracoke Ordinance Officer). Mr. Mooney was asked to provide any
have with the Ocracoke Development
'
concerns, difficulties, or suggestions that he may
Ordinance to assist the Board in determining if athewre it might be be e to �l
o Ocracoke over the last sto
omeral
(The Board had determined, by commentspeople
was enforcement and equality. During the Board's effort to
'
years, that the greatest concern
a Subdivision Ordinance, which was voted down, it was determined we may need to
consider
look at the possibility of including or revising the Ocracoke Development Ordinance. The
we look, the more concerns arise.) The Board therefore felt it would be a good idea to
'
more
get input from both the newly appointed Building Inspector and the Ocracoke Board of
further
Adjustment and to gather information from other citizens before taking any action.
' Mr. Mooney had the following comments and/or suggestions on the Development Ordinance::
1. Paragraph IIC. & HD. 1. contents of Permit Applications.may be reduced to original
and 2 copies of plans.
2. Paragraph HD.2. Non Standard Procedures as reads a project having a total cost of
$2,500 or less; possibly change to the standard $3,000 Limit which would be consistant with
the Flood Ordinance.
3. Possibly require a permit for all projects for buildings or structures which would be
'
more in accord with the Flood Ordinance. (An after -thought)
4. Paragraph HIC Signs, are becoming a problem - They are now popping up all over
the Village and not always in compliance. It used to be, people asked permission, but not now;
a On State or Federal Highways DOT
'
there is no provision in the ordinance requiring permit.
enforces their own rules. Possibly change language to require a permit for installing a sign.
Also, look at the possibility for use of a local person for enforcement.
5. Paragraph HIDParking:
a. Residential Parking: Possibly 2 or more for single family home,- especially, since
there is a potential for any home to become a summer rental with a need for an increased
number of parldng spaces for vehicles.
b. Equality of parking requirements for businesses both in and outside of the
immediate water front and historic area
.6. Temporary structures, not covered. --Possibly include provisions to cover tents and
'
awnings.
6. Paragraph III&. Page 6, Fences should possibly be excepted from setback language,
ocking of a clear
to avoid lin
but be covered elsewhere with height and location
Re requirements
-intersections for vehicles and pedestriansw bottom of page the Ordinance -
view at
as states Fence 1 ft high
'
Comments by Board of Adjustment Chairman::
1. Using right of way for building lot boundry under the road circumvents the
be 500/o the required lot size. Some are not dedicated. Not
Ordinance by: actual lot could of
very clear. (Right of way used to make-up lot square footage). Enforcement (or
interpretation). Set -backs from edge of Right of way?
2: 150 ft length of pier bad if you have to cover 30 or 40 ft of marsh first. Possibly
revise to measure from shoreline and not count the marsh.
WS&M-21

Planning Advisory Board Minutes of March 4, 1997 continued, Page 4 of 4 pages '
There was also participation from the audience. The Chair thanked Mr. Mooney, Mr. Norman
Miller, Chair Ocracoke Board of Adjustment and other members of the audience who were
'
able to enlighten the Board more fully of their concerns for use in future planning.
The chair asked for two volunteers from the Board to serve with him on a Policy Committee to
review policy statements and information with the Land Use Up -date Consultant, County,
Commissioner, Wayne Teeter and the County Manager, Jeff Credle in separate preliminary
meetings prior to giving the information and meeting with the overall full Board and its writers.
'
Mr. Rudy Austin and Mrs. Marlene Mathews accepted and were approved by the Board.
A motion was made and unanimously approved to adjourn at 7:05 p.m.
'
2ND MEETING
OCRACOKE PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD
PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING. LAND USE PLAN UP -DATE
Minutes of the meeting held March 4, 1997
,
7:05 p.m. Ocracoke Community Center
ATTENDANCE: 25 persons, see above start of first meeting at 6:00 p.m. for names.
,
Chairman O'Neal opened the meeting, made introductions and turned the meeting over to the
Hyde County Manager, W. Jeff Credle. Mr. Credle advised that the Commissioners had
'
volunteered to come to the meeting. However, the Ocracoke Commissioner, Wayne Teeter
stated he asked them not to attend this particular meeting since it is preliminary and would not
require their input at this time and would ask them to attend a future meeting. Mr. Credle
,
advised that he was their representative at this meeting and has been visiting Ocracoke at
regular intervals for those who wish to contact him.
'
Manager Credle introduced Mr. William R. Turner (Bill), Jr, Director of Planning, Overman
Engineers & Planners who is the County's Consultant on the Up -date of the Land Use Plan.
'
W. Turner discussed what the Land Use plan Up -Date is about and accepted comments from
the floor -of subjects and policies that need to be considered in the rewrite. The schedule calls
for Best -effort completed by September 1997 for State review. Pulic Hearing by Spring 1998.
Chairman O'Neal agreed to forward the Board's past meeting notes which cover activities and
'
discussions on the Land Use Plan, to acquaint Mr. Turner with the background and where we
are today.
Mr. Turner advised that he would schedule a Policy Review Committee meeting within ten
days or at least before the next scheduled Planning Advisory Board Meeting.
Motion was tion was made to adjouthe meeting at approximately 9:00 p.m.
Respectfully,
,
WS&M-22 Earl W. O'Neal

OCRACOKE
PLANNING ADVISORY BOARD
PO Box 698
Ocracoke, North Carolina
Phone I (9M 928-3417
February 4, 1997
SUBJECT: Improve Representation by Uniting the People of Ocracoke to Help
Themselves
TO: The Following Addressees:
Ocracoke Preservation Society, W. Steve Mangos, President
Ocracoke Civic k Business Association, W. Rickey Tglett, President
Ocracoke Board of Adjustment, W. Norman B. Muller. Chairman
Ocracoke Occupancy Tax Board, Mrs. Stella O'Neal, Chairperson
Ocracoke Sanitary District, W. Frank Wardlow, President
Cape Hatteras National Sesshoro, W. Russell W. Berry, Director
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, M. Dan Treader, Park Ranger
Ocracoke Health CenterBoard, W. Roger W. Garrish, President
Ocracoke Community Caner Board, Mr. David G. Tolson, Chairman
Deer Friends and Neighbors;
The Commissioner and this Board wants to take this opportunity to Invite other organizations
within Ocracoke to join with us in working as a united front to help improve, solve problems both
short and long term and to pursue a mesas to retain Ocracoke as a place where we an can enjoy
Wesdship, worldnz and fining. This Board and Its history should not be bias and Is not intended
to perform activities that are unique to the other organizations, but rather to foam on general
activities that efrbct all of Ocmooke Description of the Board Is enclosed.
There appears to be far too many organizations for such a small population to cepect any outside
governmental organizations to pay attention when any one person or organization phones or
writes a letter requesting help. Our individual efforts we usually Ignored or will be classified a
nuisance. One possible step is for all ofus to unite our efforts. Asa start we are suggesting the
Plumbs Advisory Board be made a foal point for outside assistance working vrith and through
the Commissioner and the Hyde County Board of Commissioners.
We are asking, that each organization tame a Liaison Person from their group to be both a
contact point and where appropriate, attend the Planning Advisory Board meetings to coordinate
activities. The goal is to obtain a broader representation ofth public in general and to
understand the activities and goals of ad organiutions, by joining In a common point, avoiding
conftIcts of interest and duplication of efforts. This Board is intended to repracta all the people,
wonting, businesses fisherman, retired persons, property owners and the entire population. All
mecdngs are open to the Public. As titled, this board has no authority or money to work with, all
of the member: are concerned dozens donating their time and efforts to improve our community
for An who fin iterkworkhere dobusinesshere, own property hero and to support the
OomznItioner. We ask'. tba names. addresses and phott s tamtbers of these designated LWson
Paso as with their oa bo mailed or phoned to the above.
It has been noted over the years, many organizations have been formed in Oaacokq each with its
own set of toles and objectives. This it admirable and shows the interest and concern of sfi the
people that serve on the various committees for our community. Last year a meeting was held,
put together by Ruth Fordon, which was a very positive idea in bringing many of the
organizations together. Each organization represmted was able to find out what the other was
doing, their objectives, ideas and concerns, to avoid conflicts or duplication of efforts. The idea
was good, however, it did not continue and is pert of the driving force in generating this letter,
and a call to unite
We have capable people In Ocracoke, many arcing on the various committees and organizations
who have the talent, experience and desire to hc;p solve0cracoke's problems which are many.
The Island Is trying desperately to retain put of?he past as a quaint fishing village. laid back
attitudes. friendliness and to retain Its pleasant atmosphere in which to, grow -up, live and retire.
Ifwe stop and look around us, It Is appu+eat, it is not the way it was five, ten or twenty years ago.
Change is one of the most difficult things each oaf us face in our life and we must fire h, and cope
with It m the best way we know how. The fort thing we need to do Is admit to ourselvm dam
an dI@'aeat, the way of Tufe is Wereat and we zeed to join hands In our efforts. Secarrdly, we
should adult and realize that you or I cannot stop progress, the only choice we have Is to help
shape the outcome. We need to organize ourselves in a marmer that *e, together may help shape
the Island's future by handling the changes and Frogress Ina manner that we can live with lathe
next ten to twenty years and after. Our objectives need to point toward solving some of our
present problems, but must also take time to look ahead to the future.
We are all so busy trying to ears a living and survive that we have a tendency to foam on the
present day to day problems only and neglect the future which is a foolish mistake, and why we
have many of the uncomfortable results, with which we live today.
All of our decisions and efforts trust consider the Mure and drive Ocracoke toward a place where
our children can be proud to live as our ancestors and we are. Lets hope, pray and work to make
Ocracoke a place where our children can continue to live Sill time or at tease be able to return In
their later years.
Lets make 1997 the turning point where we al! work together toward common goals.
The Commissioner and Board appreciates help that many of you have offered in the past and look
forward to working together in the fitturc.
Sincerely.64
.1101/1
otter Earl W. OT1eaI
Commissioner Chairman. OPAB
WS&M-23

it
SOURCES CONSULTED
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
' Hyde County, North Carolina 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan (1992 Plan)
Hyde County, Engelhard, Swan Quarter, and Ocracoke Shoreline Economic Development
Study
Hyde County Economic Diversification Study
Swan Quarter Revitalization Plan
' State Data Center, North Carolina Office of State Planning
Ocracoke Sanitary District
North Carolina Department of Transportation
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
North Carolina Administrative Code (NCAC 03/06/96)
Census of Population and Housing. Summary Tape File 3A
Hyde County Building Inspection Department
United States Department of Agriculture. Soil Conservation Service
LINC, Office of State Planning, State Data Center
' U.S. Department of Co►merce
Ocracoke Civic and Business Development
' Economic Census. Retail Trade
' Woods & Poole, Inc.
I
WRT\9703-NOV-2 SC - 1

Fj
APPENDICES
WRT\9703-NOV-2

Hyde County
Commercial
Bayslde Marina N Cam
Captn Carts Seafood
Jolly Roger Charter
Swanquarter Covered
ENGELHARD
Commercial
Big Trout Marina N C
Williams Seafood
MIDDLETOWN?
White Plains Marina
OCRACOKE
Commercial
Anchorage Inn Marine
Community Store Dock
Ocracoke Fishing Cen
Oneals Dockside
Public
Silver Lake Marine
SCRANTON
Commerdal
Rose Bay Marina
SWAN QUARTER
Commercial
Clarks Marina N Sid.
Oyster Creek Marina
SWAN QUARTER
Commercial
Jarvis Marina
Public
Fisherman Wharf Mar.
APPENDIX 1
Marinas and Dockages
Wet Dry
Contact
Ramp Repair
Restroom Pumpout
Fuel LlRout
Restmt Slips Stack Moorings
No Contact
YES NO
YES NO
GAS NO
NO
No Contact
NO NO
YES NO
GAS and DIESEL NO
NO
No Contact
NO NO
YES NO
NO
YES 10
No Contact
YES NO
NO NO
NO
NO 50
Frank Summedin YES NO YES NO GAS and DIESEL NO YES 28
9191925-6651
Sherry Etheridge NO NO YES NO GAS and DIESEL NO NO 20
919/925-1261
No Contact
YES
NO
YES
NO
GAS and DIESEL NO
NO
13
Bill Scott
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
NO
40
9I M28-6661
David Senseney
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
20
919/9283321
Scott Cottrell
YES
NO
YES
YES
GAS and DIESEL NO
YES
21
919/928-6661
David Senseney
YES
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
3
91919283321
Dan Trexier
YES
NO
YES
NO
NO
NO
15 10 50
919/9285111
Lorene /Chuck Nixon YES NO YES NO GAS NO NO 20
919/926-1041
Mitchell P. Newman YES NO YES NO GAS and DIESEL NO NO 50
91919263801
Harry Glyn Jarvis YES NO YES NO NO NO
9191926-4131
No Contact
Glenda B. Wms.
91919264271
Source: NO Division of Coastal Management,1995.
YES NO NO NO NO NO
YES NO NO NO NO NO 10
WRT\9703-API
Al -1

APPENDIX 2
Index to Watersheds
By County
Hyde County % of county % of watershed River Basin DWQ Subbasin
In watershed" In county'
03010205210 010 3.6 30.6 Pasquotank 03-01-51
03010205210 020 4.3 98.0 Pasquotank 03-01-51
03020104090 010
7.4
61.7
Tar-pamlico
03-03-07
03020104120 010
2.6
99.9
Tar-pamlico
03-03-07
03020104120 020
3.3
99.7
Tar-pamlico
03-03-07
03020104120 030
1.9
99.8
Tar-pamlico
03-03-07
03020105030 010
4.2
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105030 020
5.2
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105040 010
4.6
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105040 020
3.7
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105050 010
2.6
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105060 010
8.2
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105070 010
2.6
100.0
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105080 015
1.1
39.4
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105090 010
41.2
80.9
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
03020105090 030
1.0
99.7
Tar-pamlico
03-03-08
Only those watersheds containing one percent or more of the total county area are shown.
Source. North Carolina Division of Water Quality.
A2-1

L
C�
APPENDIX 8
Confined
Animal Operations Registrations
As of August 1996
Hyde County
Description
Design
Status•
(swine only)
Capacity
Cattle
Boerema Farms
Certified: E000775
200
Swine
A.B. Hams Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
80
B & W Swine
Certified: E001289
Feeder to Finish
725
Berry Brothers Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
80
Berry Ferrell Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
125
D & S Farms
Registered
Registered
Farrow to Finish
180
36
Glen Blake Farm
Gregory Kyle Berry Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
50
Hubert Lewis Farm
Registered
Registered
Farrow to Finish
60
250
Hyde Parks Farm
60
Lake Comfort Hog
Lake Landing Hog Farm
Registered
Registered
Feeder to Finish
1.200
Marshall Hog Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
105
Midyette Farms
Registered
Feeder to Finish
700
Mooney Hog Farm
Certified: E000806
Farrow to Finish
200
Porkland
Registered
Farrow to Finish
175
Rodlee Pork Inc.
Registered
Feeder to Finish
900
Sawyer Farms
Certified E001288
Feeder to Finish
725
Skeeter Hog Farm
Registered.
Farrow to Feeder
225
Southern Pines Farm
Registered
Farrow to Finish
250
300
Swan Acre Hog Farm
Certified: E000748
Farrow to Finish
1200
TT&R Farm
Registered
Feeder to Finish
Tiny Oak Farms Inc.
Registered
Farrow to Finish
350
• Registered: Usted with NO DEHNR DWQ. Certified: Has approved waste management plan In plaoe.
Source. North Carolina DMslon of Water Qt aq - A3 -1.

APPENDIX 4
PUBLIC EDUCATION AND CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
FOR USE IN PREPARING
THE
1997 COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
ADOPTED BY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
March 3, 1997
Prepared By:
William C. Overman Associates, P.C.
A4-1

INTRODUCTION I
Rule .0215-Public Participation, Subchapter 1B, of the North Carolina '
Administrative Code, March 5, 1996, (NCAC 03/05/96) requires localities to:
. employ a variety of educational efforts and participation
techniques to assure that all segments of the community have a full and
adequate opportunity to participate in all stages of plan development.
The public education and citizen participation plan is designed to give
the public an opportunity to voice its views on all required policy items
throughout the 1997 County of Hyde, North Carolina CAMA Land Use Plan Update
'
(1997 Update). As described herein, several public education and citizen
participation strategies will be used by the County to accomplish this
'
objective and thus fulfill legal requirements.
Educational efforts may include, but are not limited to newspaper
articles, public service announcements, and direct mail. Participatory
techniques may include, but are not limited to, neighborhood meetings,
'
questionnaires, newsletters, and presentations to civic, business, church and
citizens' groups. To encourage public participation at meetings, the public
should be informed of each public meeting in multiple ways, rather than
relying only on a legal notice.
t
MRT\97-03.Ape A4 - 2 ,

I
The NCAC 03/05/96 requires "For all Land Use Plans, a concise Citizen
Participation Plan shall be prepared and adopted by the local government at
the beginning of the planning process. The Citizen Participation Plan shall
be included in the Land Use Plan. At a minimum, the plan shall include the
following:
(1) A designation of the principal local board, agency, or department
responsible for preparing or updating the Land Use Plan.
(2) An explanation of the various means of soliciting public participation
such as citizen surveys, questionnaires-, informational brochures, and/or
' community outreach.
I
(3) A schedule of the various opportunities for public information and
participation with specific dates.
(4) An explanation of how public will be notified of its opportunities for
input."
POLICY STATEMENT
Citizen input will continue to be solicited, -primarily through the Board
of Commissioners, with advertised and adequately publicized public meetings
held to discuss special land use issues and to keep citizens informed.
With respect to Ocracoke Island, Hyde County adopted additional policy
' language which follows:
WRT\97-09,Aps
A4-3

Under 15A NCAC 7B.0203, Hyde County states and adopts the following
policy with respect to continued public participation in planning decision
making in Ocracoke:
The county and all concerned should do their best to ensure informed
public participation in land use planning under 15A NCAC 7B. The public
is particularly encouraged, among other things, to seize all
opportunities provided now and in the future under CAMA and the present.
plan to inform themselves about permit applications in Ocracoke's AECs,
comment thereon, to the permitting authorities, seek any elucidation
.needed, hold meetings, discuss the issues and invite to such meetings
representatives of the -Department of Environment, Health and Natural
`Resources. Hyde County considers that the knowledge and experience
gained by thepublicwill contribute greatly to the public's effective
participation in planning and decision making in the sense of 15A NCAC
7B.202(a).
INITIAL PUBLIC MEETING
The NCAC 03/05/96 requires that a public meeting be conducted at the
beginning.of the update process. During the meeting, the local government
must. discuss the. statements of local policy found in the current Land Use Plan
and the effect of those policies on the community. In addition, the local
government explains the process by which it will solicit the views of a wide
cross-section of citizens in the development of updated policy statements.
Meetings were held on March 3 and March 4, 1997 in Swan Quarter and Ocracoke,
respectively, to fulfill this requirement and accomplish these goals.
DESIGNATION OF PRINCIPAL LOCAL BOARD
The County Board of Commissioners is hereby designated as the principal
local board responsible for supervision of the 1997 Update.
WRT\97-03.Ape A4 - 4
C
fl

PUBLIC EDUCATION AND CITIZEN PARTICIPATION STRATEGIES• SCHEDULE
Citizen participation in the planning process promotes public education
regarding land use issues, policy development, and regulatory procedures. The
County will proceed from this premise, thereby furthering public education on
' planning issues while obtaining citizen input in developing Land Use Plan
policy statements and allowing for continued public participation in the
' planning process. To ensure that all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural
view points are properly considered in the updating process, the County will
utilize a variety of public education and citizen participation strategies
' including:
1. Direct Citizen Participation - Commencing at the meeting to discuss the
public education and citizen participation plan held on March 3, 1997 and
continuing further at each subsequent Board of Commissioners meeting,
citizen participation will be encouraged and time will be allocated as
appropriate for round -table discussions involving citizens, the Board,
and staff. Round -table discussions will be held during regularly
scheduled Board meetings held on the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month.
The first of such meetings, (March 3, 1997) also included a round -table
discussion on land use policy issues.
2. Interest Group Participation - A number of interest groups will be
identified and invited to participate at the regularly scheduled Planning
Board round -table discussions. These include, but are not limited to the
Ocracoke Planning Advisory Committee and the Hyde County Chamber of
Commerce.
WRT\97-08.Ape
A4 - 5

Board members and staff will avail themselves of opportunities to meet '
and interact with these organizations as invitations occur and schedules '
permit.
regional, ,
3. Media Participation Local, reg'� , and state media will be invited to
participate in the 1997 Update and will be encouraged to attend public ,
hearings and round -table discussions. Media organizations include, but
are not limited to the following: '
a. The Coastland Times '
b. The Beaufort-Hyde_News '
C. The Washington Daily News
d. WHYC FM Radio ,
4. Area Local Governments - Local governments and agencies will be invited '
to participate in the 1997 Update and will be encouraged to attend public
hearings and round -table discussions. These include, but are not limited '
to the Counties of Tyrrell and Dare.
NOTIFICATION PROCEDURES & IMPLEMENTATION STRATEGY
Advertisements in newspapers, radio public service announcements, and ,
direct mailings will be used to announce meetings and encourage participation
by citizens, interest groups, news media, and other interested parties. '
Meeting notices will also be posted on bulletin boards and information desks
where appropriate. Efforts will be made to attend civic club meetings and the '
like to further expose the planning process to the public.
WRT\97-03.ere A4 - 6 1

This plan, as adopted, including a listing of meetings and other applicable
documentation, and an assessment as to the effectiveness and adequacy of the citizen
participation effort will be included as a part of this 1997 Update.
WRT\97-03.Ape
A4-7

n
n
MAPS
WRT\9703-NJV-2

104091001
1N
W
r
fe
The preparation of this map was financed
in part through a grant provided by the
Program,
C
North Carolina Coastal Management
p O
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
is administered by the Office of Ocean and
C IR M t Nt' 10 nic
oasto esource onagemen , a ona cea
and Atmospheric Administration.
14 -DIGIT HYDROLOGIC UNIT DESIGNATION
03010205180010*
AllICAr01?MMMM
LAKE 03010205210010* �; a3b1Q�5
03010205190010*
Tyrrell County

MAP 2
EXISTING LAND USE—PREDOMINANT/GENERAL—
OCRACOKE ISLAND
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
RESIDENTIAL
000a MOBILE HOME PARKS
® COMMERCIAL
® PUBLIC/SEMI—PUBLIC
GRAPHIC SCALE
4 2 0 2 4 8
1 INCH = 4 MILES
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM
OCRACOKE ISLAND IS WHOLLY CONTAINED IN A
SINGLE HYDROLOGIC UNIT — 03020105090030
ROADS WITH STATE NUMBERS ARE MAINTAINED
BY THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA.
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
The preparation of this mop 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, Notional Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration.
LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
— CANALS
--- COUNTY LINE
CHURCH
© FIRE DEPARTMENT
HISTORIC SITE
® RESCUE SQUAD
r SCHOOL
WATER TANK
/.�loryanns
Pared
National P
Service
N.C. DOT
U.S. Coast
Guard
Poinf i I
Scorboro gh Rd.
R 1327
Orcracoke Light ouse &
Keeper's Quarte s
Ocracoke Hi toric
District Boun ary
S
O/o'
Slough
I I i
l�
NarLhern
— Bo; Ridge Rd. I
Pond SR '362
C Community Cemetery Rd.
r J a (Old Ammunition Dump Rd.) �C `
R s'P SR 134
Z Oysfer °°P ,�
Shor o� , s
'o CAeeek +� �� Horseoen SIR 1341ent Dr.
Rd.aZ
a Poinf \ P
John
Caskins
eon Rd.J
1361
Aw
PC
An
Moonlight
SR
Valley Rd

01l
ft
y
�11- -a 0 1 1 0 0 to 1 0
01
ally/ VZO/I
VINE' X
I
03020104090020*
Pungo River
i3020
0
030 0r04
V �
GRAPHIC SCALE
r 0 6 12Gjr. i0
I IN. - 6 MILE Q
SCALE IN MILES 0
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM G7
0G
,L
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
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.
* 14—DIGIT HYDROLOGIC UNIT DESIGNATION
HI
�YWM �
/j01 03 Q*Bird Ref ge
/CO BOG
BOG 7�
i
0302 10505Q0
m110 03020105060010*
L4KE
OWTAMUSKEET o
National Z,
Wildlife Refuge 'mil
2 40
Cull Rock s/
G�me Land
0302010504001
1 .=
03020105090010* 5OUNO
0�t/co
a,
70 10*
rn ;
0
'
GNP
•,
So��10
LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
CANALS
COUNTY LINE
MAP 3
FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
//i ZONE "C" MINIMALLY FLOODED
100 YEAR FLOOD AREA (INCLUDES
ZONE A, B. AND V AREAS)
Note 1) Detailed flood insurance rate maps
should be consulted for zone delineations.
These are available for review in the Hyde
County Building Inspections Department.
Note 2) All of Ocracoke Village is located in
the 100 year flood area.
ENGIMLIRS - 0(S16Nf N�
MANNERS CONSIIIIU IS

/ 03010205160010*
---._. Washington County Tyrrell County
r- -- Hyd un y
de Count
Pang Not anal
l Will life R fuge
03d201
03020104090020*
Pungo iPive�
20220V90
0
304
030
GRAPHIC SCALE O
6 0 6 12(,W— �(0
1 IN. 6 MILE
SCALE IN MILES O
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM
�G
7�
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
The preparation of this map was financed
In port 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.
* 14-DIGIT HYDROLOGIC UNIT DESIGNATION
ALLI ATOR
G4KE
0
03010205210010*
5'41 03010205180010*
03020105060010*
L4!(E
p UATTAMUSKEET
National
J`- Wildlife Refuge
0
1002)0*
\ 3 0 40
2 6
4 3 Gull ock
G m an
010503 ird R g 03 4001
6 Q
IL ,
y
03020105090010* SOUND
o C�oGG�y PAMt1Dp
03010205190010*
Tyrrell Count
Hy County ,
W, 9&.1i=
X
O
O- c0
(D
C) 0
O O
O
PAUcD LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
*.,.
CANALS
--- COUNTY LINE
10*
�J MAP 4
I SOIL ASSOCIATIONS - MAINLAND
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
1 MYATT-BLADEN ASSOCIATION:
Poorly drained soils with gray to dark gray
fine sandy loam to loam surface layers and
friable sandy clay loam to very firm cloy subsoils.
2 WEEKSVILLE-PASQUOTANK ASSOCIATION:
Very poorly drained soils with black to gray very
fine sandy loam or silt loom surface layers over
friable silt loam or stratified sands.
3 HYDE-BAYBORO ASSOCIATION:
Very poorly drained soils with thick block loam
surface layers over firm clay loam to very firm
clay subsoils.
4 CAPERS-NEWHAN ASSOCIATION:
Very poorly drained soils with dark gray silty
clay subsoils and loam surface layers over sticky,
plastic, silty cloy subsoils and excessively drained
gray to dark gray sandy soils that contain marine
shells.
5 DARE-PUNGO-DOROVAN ASSOCIATION:
Very poorly drained soils with thick to moderately
thick organic surface layers over mineral sub-
surface layers ranging from sond to cloy.
6 PONZER-BELHAVEN-WASDA ASSOCIATION:
Very poorly drained soils with moderately thick to
thick organic surface layers and loamy subsurface
layers.
(MGIN[ERS - DCSIDNINS
PIANNINS - cONSul1AN15

MAP 5
SOIL ASSOCIATIONS — OCRACOKE ISLAND
HYDE COUNTY,
NORTH CAROLINA
MAP
SYMBOL
SOIL TYPE
5
Tidal flats
6
Carteret soils, low
7
Corolla fine sand
10
Dredge spoil
12
Duckston fine sand
17
Madeland
18
Carteret soils, high
19
Carteret soils
21
Newhan fine sand
22
Newhan—Corolla complex
LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
CANALS
--
COUNTY LINE
GRAPHIC SCALE
4 2 0 2 4 8
1 INCH = 4 MILES
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM
OCRACOKE ISLAND IS WHOLLY CONTAINED IN A
SINGLE HYDROLOGIC UNIT — 03020105090030
ROADS WITH STATE NUMBERS ARE MAINTAINED
BY THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA,
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
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.
Wi7dmi//
Point
S,orii q6'
Po1�7t

MAP 7
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN -
AND FRAGILE AREAS - OCRACOKE ISLAND
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
PROBABLE WETLANDS AREAS
Note 1) The coastal_ wetland areas ore defined by 15A NCAC
7H.0205 as any salt marsh or other marsh subject to
regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides
(whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas
through natural or artificial water courses), provided this
shall not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Precise
locations of all coastal wetlands must be determined in
the field.
Note 2) All waters under the jurisdiction of Hyde County are either
estuarine weters or public trust areas as defined in 15A
NCAC 7H.0206 estuarine waters and .0207 public trust areas.
v I V
o Norfhern Bay Ridge Rd. y
Pond SR 1362
P
VGrvanns P 6
ICbnd o A*.sp o,
I ::17e�sfbr- n •*
National P
Note 3) All areas lying 0-75' land ward of the mean high water Service -
level of estuarine waters ore classified as estuarine shorelines.
Because of mop scale, these areas cannot be accurately N.C. DOT
mapped. Precise locations must be determined in the field U.S. Coast
through CAMA review and permit approval. Estuarine shorelines Guard NC
along manmade ditches are not considered fragile areas and
are not subject to the estuarine shoreline policies included in
this plan.
1411i70'mi//
Note 4) Effective March 1, 1991, any undeveloped parcels of property P01r7f
two acres or larger in size shall be considered valuable
natural areas.
Note 5) All 404 wetland areas are classified as conservation. However,
because of map scale, locations cannot be delineated. Precisecrborough Rd.
locations must be determined through on -site analysis SR 1327
and verification. Federal 404 permitting and regulatory
requirements shall apply.
LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
CANALS SPrir�ger's ::�
-- COUNTY LINE
GRAPHIC SCALE
4 2 0 2 4 8
1 INCH - 4 MILES
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM 0/0,
Slough
OCRACOKE ISLAND IS WHOLLY CONTAINED IN A
SINGLE HYDROLOGIC UNIT - 03020105090030
ROADS WITH STATE NUMBERS ARE MAINTAINED
BY THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA.
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
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.
Shor
:
rgEi
M N
a
OVA
Community Cemetery Rd.
(Old Ammunition Dump Rd.)
SR 134-1—
Horseoeri
Point
Ext. T•--t Dr.
SR 13"
w „rl• .
moo` � � • Goskirps -
�oQ e� Dr.
Poi
h Ellen -St.......... . Dr 3R 1341 �SRrna Shore JDf.......................�
Sou
.......... eoyco
�" tea' .�. °�e •. .�.•.•.•.•.� � 5
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LLQM
03010205160010*
--- — I'AVf D ROADS
_ _ _ Washington Count CANALS
- -•-- --•----- --- - `�-------- —7--•- ----- - ry_._. Y _.__•_- _ ___ Tyrrell County _ 03010205180010* - - - - COUNTY LINE
'Hyde 73u TY -___- ____----____
Hyde County i 03010205190010*
N Tyrrell County
Pungb Not�onal 1 -,- z :---------- H -------Count -
„ Wildlife RE fuge / ! Y Y
� e I I 11 il, �•' ����
l ALLIGATOR �
03020104090010* ! LAKE 010205210010*'O.
03-Q3010205210020* ( i
sl y �,.• ' .� S _ 03 ry2010508Db 1 5*
61
or�r CO
CwnlSalaaw �a ..\ p' ` �� ` � \. �'\\ ���• r�� "m lV
03020104090020* I u �1
,: Lam••. `.
50
03020105060010 N ; a :: PAM�IC
LAKE
_ Pungo l�ive� E V MATTAMUSKEET
a-•w03020'I`0 National
�'''"• j R' �
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Wildlife Refuge
50 I P ll 570 10*
MAP 8
" TM LAND CLASSIFICATIONS - MAINLAND
..,, c:;.� ,,.:..••.. mom""°"` c s HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
DEVELOPED RURAL WITH
2 5q40=i • :� SERVICES
COMMUNITY CONSERVATION
030 0 r04120030* I' "
j� ��+,.:::: ll tilR I RURAL OUTSTANDING
�•.::: ... •• ' t�. •/^ ' c. I ( ' F— ,�� RESOURCE
yyJ+ 4. ! .,`1r;•14, ••, :::'.:::;,..•,• at li�yiI i +.• Gull. -Rock WATERS
i• _ an 1 :,:tiN:;ia;;:'
+.. rS�s� Ge L d'S..� Note 1) All areas lying 0-75' land ward of the mean high
.• « w \ h,
�;,•�' water level or normal water level of estuarine
caAaNlc SCALEL0 ;� of ge • 0302010504001 0* ' "''y' waters not classified as outstanding resource
O 1'
6 0 6 izG„-. ;: t ••` �• , waters are classified as estuarine shoreline areas.
I IN. 6 MILE Q,. ^ •• �� ^ .. n...-- _ >!.�'.•: 1rG:'?�S: '.:. `j .-'.. �n irr
`• .x " 4 �!" Note 2) All areas lying 0-575' land ward of the mean high
SCALE IN MILES f' O �; ;.,•.••• :f1h,:••,w.. '1•:• •• L
G L.1 ::};:::•' r•�;� :� ij:,' water level or normal water level of estuarine
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM C� 7 }I `.r sy' waters classified as outstanding resource waters
OG y' : ui 'PER are classified as estuarine shoreline areas.
�� _� i ,, ,• Note 3) All waters of Hyde County are classified as estuarine
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206, or public
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997 trust areas as as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207 in
q 'Sy areas not designated as outstanding resource waters
The preparation of this map was financed 0 0O " or primary nursery areas, all development shall be
in port through a grant provided by the C1 °ry4` 03020105090010* NO consistent with the use standards contained in
North Carolina Coastal Management Program, O O ��� 15A NCAC 7H.0206 and .0207.
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone 0 G�f � t(co Note 4) The rural with services "corridors" are one mile wide.
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which OG y PAM They extend one-half mile on either side of the
is administered by the Office of Ocean and �� . Because of map scale, the exact location of 404 rood along which the classification is located.
Coastal Resource Management. Notional Oceanic wetland areas cannot be delineated. Precise locations
and Atmospheric Administration. must be determined through on -site analysis and verification
INCINIIN$ pl >I,INI
• 14-DIGIT HYDROLOGIC UNIT DESIGNATION ",,,by the US Army Corbs of Engineers. Coastal wetlands will be located by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management. r;41119< ,,NSaIIANI<

MAP 9
LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
HYDE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
Note 1) Areas which may be either 404 or coastal wetlands
must be determined through in —field verification
and analysis of 404 wetland areas by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers and coastal wetlands
by CAMA regulatory personnel.
Nose 2) All areas lying 0-75' landward of the mean high water level
of estuarine waters are estuarine shoreline areas. Because of
map scale, these areas cannot be accurately mopped. Precise
locations must be determined in the field. All uses shall
be consistent with the policies contained in this plan.
Estuarine shorelines along monmode ditches are not considered
conservation areas, and therefore ore not subject to the
U.S. C
estuarine shoreline policies contained in this plan. Manmade
Guard
canals are considered ditches. 15A NCAC 7H use standards
will apply to the estuarine shorelines along manmade ditches.
Note 3) All waters in the vicinity of Ocracoke are classified as estuarine'
_
waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206, or public trust areas
PC
as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. All development shall be
consistent with the policies contained in this plan.
Scarboroc
c
LEGEND
PAVED ROADS
CANALS
COUNTY LINE
GRAPHIC SCALE
4 2 0 2 4 8
1 INCH = 4 NILES
NC STATE PLANE COORDINATE SYSTEM
OCRACOKE ISLAND IS WHOLLY CONTAINED IN A
SINGLE HYDROLOGIC UNIT — 03020105090030
ROADS WITH STATE NUMBERS ARE MAINTAINED
BY THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA.
COUNTY OF HYDE, NORTH CAROLINA
CAMA LAND USE PLAN UPDATE 1997
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 Administrotion.
.6
of