1996 Land Use Plan-1999

TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH
NORTH CAROLINA
1996 LAND USE PLAN
Adopted by the North Topsail Beach Board of Aldermen: March 13, 1999
Certified by the Coastal Resources Commission: March 26, 1999
Prepared By:
Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Wilmington, North Carolina
The preparation of this document was financed in part through a grant provided by the
North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided 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.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
' TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH
1996 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
PAGE
SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE .......................... 1-1
'
B.
1.
DEMOGRAPHICS, ECONOMY, AND HOUSING .......................
Regional and County Population Growth
1-10
1-10
2.
North Topsail Beach Population, Economic, and Housing Conditions ........
1-13
'
3.
4.
Town of North Topsail Beach Seasonal Population .....................
Day Visitor
1-13
1-14
5.
Economy................................................1-14
6.
C.
Housing..................................................1-20
EXISTING LAND USE .........................................
1-21
'
1.
2.
Introduction .......... ............................... • .....
Urban and Developed Land
I-21
1-24
3.
Summary: Population, Economy, Housing, and Existing Land Use ..........
1-25
1
4.
5.
Development Potential ........................................
Existing Ordinances and Land Use Controls ..........................
1-26
1-27
a. Town of North Topsail Beach CAMA Land Use Plan, 1991 ..........
1-27
b. Town of North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance ..................
C. Town of North Topsail Beach Subdivision Ordinance ..............
1-28
1-28
d. National Flood Insurance Damage Prevention Ordinance ............
1-29
e. North Carolina State Building Code ..........................
f. Motor -Driven Vehicles and Horses on Dunes and Beaches Ordinance ...
1-29
1-29
g. Septic Tank Regulations ..................................
1-29
h. North Topsail Beach Beach and Waterfront Access Plan ............
1-29
i. North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program (TIP),1995 .....
1-30
6.
Effectiveness of the 1991 Land Use Plan and Policies • • .
1-30
7.
Basinwide Water Quality Management .............................
1-30
D.
LAND AND WATER COMPATIBILITY ANALYSIS ......................
I-33
1.
Compatibility Issues ..........................................
1-33
2.
Unplanned Development ..................................... .
1-36
a. Dwellings and Structures within the Ocean Erodible Hazard Area .
1-36
b. Development of Structures in Area Ineligible for Federal Flood Insurance
1-36
C. Inadequate Transportation Access to Serve Residential Areas .
1-37
d. Overwash and Erosion of SR 1568 ........ ........
1-37
e. Water System was not Designed for "Urban -Type" Development .....
1-37
E.
............
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES ..................
1-37
1.
Water Supply ..............................................
1-37
2.
3.
Sewer System..............................................I-39
Solid Waste .
1-40
4.
Educational Facilities ................. .............. ......
1-41

5.
Transportation ..............................................
1-41
6.
Police Protection ....... ........ ........................
1-43
7.
Fire Protection ..............................................
1-43
8.
Rescue Squad ..............................................
1-44
'.
9.
Recreation .................................................
1-44
10.
Library ........................ .........................1-46
11.
Medical Services ............................................
1-46
'
12.
Electrical Distribution .........................................
1-46
F.
DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY ..................
1-47
1.
Topography/Geology.........................................
1-47
2.
Ground Water ...........................................
1-47
3.
Flood Hazard Areas ..........................................
1-50
4.
Soils .......... ... ........................................1-53
5.
Manmade Hazards ....... ... a ..............................
1-57
6.
Fragile Areas ...............................................
1-58
a. Coastal Wetlands .......................................
1-58
b. . Estuarine Waters .......................................
1-58
C. Estuarine Shorelines .....................................
1-58
d. Public Trust Areas ......................................
1-61
e. Ocean Hazard Areas ..... ..............................
1-61
f. Maritime Forests .......................................
1-62
'
g. Historic and Archaeological Sites ............................
1-62
h. Wetlands Defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act ..........
1-63
i. Natural Resource Fragile Areas
1-63
'
j. Slopes in Excess of 12% .................................
1-64
k. Outstanding Resource Waters ..............................
1-64
I. Marine Resources ......................................
1-64
'
M. Closed Shellfishing Areas .................................
1-65
,
SECTION
II: PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
A.
DEMOGRAPHIC DATA ........................................
11-1
1.
Demographic Trends .........................................
II-1
2.
Commercial and Industrial Land Use ...............................
II-2
3.
Housing Trends .............................................
II-2
4.
Public Land Use .............................................
II-3
5.
Areas Likely to Experience Major Land Use Changes ...................
II-3
6.
Summary .................................................
II-3
B.
PROJECTED PUBLIC FACILITIES NEEDS/AVAILABILITY .................
II-4
1.
Water Supply ..............................................
II-4
2.
Sewer System ..............................................
II-5
3.
Solid Waste Disposal .........................................
II-5
4.
5.
Education Facilities ...........................................
Police, Fire, and Rescue Facilities................I.................
II-6
II-7
'
6.
Recreation .................................................
II-7
7.
Transportation ..............................................
II-7
'
C. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES .................................... II-12
F1�

PAGE
D. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION ........ II-12
SECTION III: NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM .......... III-1
SECTION IV: NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH POLICY STATEMENTS
A. VISION STATEMENT .................. IV-2
B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS ..................... IV-3
C. MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCE PROTECTION ......................... IV-5
D. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES .............. IV-1 1
E. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS ..... IV-14
F. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES ..................... IV-19
G. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY,
AND EVACUATION PLAN ..................................... IV-20
SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND CLASSIFICATIONS
A. DEVELOPED CLASS.... .................................... V-1
B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS .................................... V-1
C. CONSERVATION CLASS ....................................... V-1
D. CLASSIFICATION LOCATIONS .............. ..... ............. V-1
E. SUMMARY ................................................ V-2
TABLES
PAGE
Table 1
Total Population and Percent Change for CAMA-Regulated
Counties, 1960-1995 .............................
1-11
Table 2
Onslow County
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth, 1970-1995 ....
1-12
Table 3
Town of North Topsail Beach
Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population, 1996 .....
1-14
Table 4
Onslow County
Tourism Income, 1988 & 1995 ......................
1-14

PAGE
Table 5
Onslow County
Room Occupancy Tax Revenues, 1990, 1995, and 1996 ....
1-15
Table 6
1994 Onslow County Employment ....................
1-17
Table 7
Town of North Topsail Beach
Property Valuations, 1989-1997 .....................
1-18
Table 8
Town of North Topsail Beach
Revenues and Expenditures, 1990 and 1994 ............
1-19
Table 9
Town of North Topsail Beach
Residential Building Permits 1991-1995 ................
1-20
Table 10
Town of North Topsail Beach
Hurricane Fran Structure Damage ....................
1-20
Table 11
North Topsail Beach
Subdivision Approvals, 1986-1995 ...................
1-21
Table 12
North Topsail Beach
1996 Land Use Summary ..........................
1-24
Table 13
North Topsail Beach
Watersheds ....................................
1-32
Table 14
Onslow County Schools Serving North Topsail Beach
Comparison for 1990-1991 and 1996-1997 .............
1-41
Table 15
North Topsail Beach
Town Roads Eligible for Powell Bill Funds ...............
1-42
Table 16
North Topsail Beach, 1991
Fire Protection Improvements for Multi -Family and High Rise
Developments ..................................
1-44
Table 17
North Topsail Beach
Degree and Kind of Limitation for Stated Use ............
1-57
Table 18
Onslow County
Summary of Projected Year -Round Population Growth, 1995-
2005........................................
II-1
Table 19
North Topsail Beach
Permanent, Seasonal, and Total Peak Population, 2000 and
2005.....................................
II-2
Table 20
Summary of Construction Projects, 1998-2001
Onslow County Schools Serving North Topsail Beach .......
II-6
Table 21
North Topsail Beach Road Improvements ...............
II-8
MAPS
Map 1 A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Existing Land Use .......... 1-22/23
Map 2A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Water Conditions Map ....... 1-34/35
Map 3A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Water Supply Service Areas ... 1-48/49
Map 4A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Flood Hazard Map .......... 1-51 /52
Map 5 Town of North Topsail Beach Storm Surge Inundation Areas .. 1-54
Map 6A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Soils Map ................ 1-55/56

PAGE
Map 7A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Areas of Environmental Concern 1-59/60
Map 8A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Sensitive Habitats .......... 1-66/67
Map 9A/B/C Onslow County Road Improvements ................... II-9/11
Map 10A/B Town of North Topsail Beach Land Classification Map ...... III-5/6
APPENDICES
Appendix I Town of North Topsail Beach Policies Considered But Not Adopted
Appendix II Town of North Topsail Beach Citizen Participation Plan

' SECTION I: ANALYSIS OF EXISTING CONDITIONS
A. ESTABLISHMENT OF INFORMATION BASE
The existing North Topsail Beach CAMA Land Use Plan was prepared in 1991 and certified
by the Coastal Resources Commission on July 23, 1993. That plan was prepared in
conformance with the 1990-1991 15A NCAC 713 CAMA planning guidelines.
During 1995 and 1996, the 15A NCAC 7B CAMA planning guidelines were revised. The
' revised guidelines included new requirements for the development of policy statements.
These changes included the following policy statement additions:
' -- A general vision policy statement describing the type of community that the
local government would like to become within the next ten years.
-- A basic statement as to the community attitude toward resource protection.
-- A policy addressing the protection of wetlands identified as being of the highest
' functional significance on maps supplied by the Division of Coastal
Management.
1 --A policy addressing moorings and mooring fields.
-- A policy addressing water quality problems and management measures
' designed to reduce or eliminate local sources of surface water quality problems.
-- A statement as to the community attitude toward resource production and
management.
-- A policy addressing commitment to state and federal programs, including
housing rehabilitation, community development block grants, housing for low
and moderate income level citizens, water and sewer installation, and rural
water systems.
' -- A policy addressing assistance in interstate waterways.
This land.use plan update has been prepared in compliance with the revised guidelines dated
September 28, 1995.
The 7B guidelines define the following intent of land use plans:
' "Local governments, through the land use planning process, address issues and
adopt policies that guide the development of their community. Many decisions
' affecting development are made by other levels of government, and local
policies must take account of and coincide with established state and federal
policies. Most decisions, however, are primarily of local concern. By carefully
' and explicitly addressing these issues, other levels of government will follow
1-1

local policies that deal with these issues. State and federal agencies will use
the local land use plans and policies in making project consistency, funding, and
permit decisions. Policies which consider the type of development to be
encouraged, the density and patterns of development, and the methods of
providing beach access are examples of these local policy decisions.
The land use plan shall contain the following basic elements:
1) a summary of data collection and analysis;
2) an existing land use map;
3) a policy discussion;
4) a land classification map."
In addition to these basic elements, the 7B guidelines require that the following issues be
addressed in the plan:
1) Resource Protection
2) Resource Production and Management,
3) Economic and Community Development
4) Continuing Public Participation
5) Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plans
This land use plan will provide a guide for development of the Town of North Topsail Beach
by addressing issues and adopting policies that are relevant to the town. Specifically, the plan
will provide the following:
1) an analysis of existing conditions, including a land use map;
2) a projected land development analysis;
3) a summary of public interests and participation;
4) a land classification system;
5) a detailed section on policy statements;
6) an analysis of the carrying capacity of public facilities with a demand/supply
analysis;
7) a summary of 404 wetland areas and issues;
8) an explanation of the relationship of the policies to the land classification.
It should be noted that the policy section of the plan is the most important part of the
document. State and federal agencies will use the local land use policies in making project
consistency, funding, and permit decisions.
The 1991 Town of North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan included policy statements which
addressed the five policy areas. CAMA planning guidelines require that the existing (1991)
policy statements be summarized in this document. For the most part, the policies contained
in the 1991 plan meet but do not exceed the state's 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards
for Areas of Environmental Concern. The following summarizes the 1991 policy statements
with those policies which exceed 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards identified with an
asterisk (*).
1-2

' 1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
RESOURCE PROTECTION: ESTUARINE SYSTEM
Areas of Environmental Concern
North Topsail Beach's overall policy and management objective for the Estuarine System is consistent
with the State "7-H" Standards.
Coastal Wetlands
It shall be the policy of North Topsail Beach that the first priority for uses of land in these areas
should be the allowance of uses which promote "conservation" of the sensitive areas, with
conservation meaning the lack of imposition of irreversible damage to the wetlands.
-- As a matter of policy, uses which require water access and uses such as utility easements,
fishing piers, and docks will generally be allowed, but must adhere to use standards of the
' Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA: 15A NCAC 7H). Shoreline access facilities such as
boat ramps may also be permitted.
-- * It is the town's policy that development in coastal wetlands be consistent with the
Conservation District (CON-D) in the existing zoning ordinance. The town may deem it
necessary to amend the ordinance in order to place all of the identified coastal wetlands or
marsh into a "Conservation District." This will greatly limit the types of permitted development
in these sensitive areas.
Estuarine Waters and Estuarine Shorelines
-- In order to promote the quality of the estuarine waters as well as minimize the likelihood of
significant property loss due to erosion or flooding, North Topsail Beach will permit only those
uses which are compatible with both the dynamic nature of the estuarine shorelines and the
values of the estuarine system. Residential, recreational, and commercial uses may be
permitted within the estuarine shoreline, provided that:
' a. A substantial chance of pollution occurring from the development does not exist;
b. Natural barriers to erosion are preserved and not substantially weakened or eliminated;
r* C. A vegetated 40' buffer is maintained wherein removal of any vegetation 3" or greater
in diameter at the base is prohibited, unless such provision prohibits a permitted use.
Removal of such vegetation shall be minimized. This revision shall apply only to lots
created after certification of this plan.
d. The construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing natural drainage is
limited to that necessary for development;
e. Standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act 1978, and as
amended in 1990, are met;
f. Development does not have a significant adverse impact on estuarine resources;
' g. Development does not significantly interfere with existing public rights or access to or
use of navigable waters or public resources;
-- The top priority of North Topsail Beach is for the AEC estuarine shoreline to be maintained in
' a manner consistent with state and local development standards.
1-3

1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
Public Trust Waters
-- Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigation channels, increase
shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation
patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause degradation of shellfish waters, shall
generally not be allowed.
Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW) Estuarine Shoreline (AEC)
-- The density and types of development in the 575' ORW impact area should be regulated in
order to protect the quality of the waters. At minimum, State imposed standards should be
adhered to.
-- * Commercial or recreational marinas abutting ORW's are considered to be an undesirable use of
land and waters in the ORW area.
-- * Consistent with policy statements for protection of estuarine waters and shorelines,
commercial, agricultural, and/or aquacultural operations are undesirable uses in the ORW-impact
areas.
Permuda Island
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach supports the protective designation of Permuda Island, and
the subsequent limitations on activities, consistent with State guidelines.
Areas of Environmental Concern: Ocean Hazards Areas
Ocean Hazards
-- * Within the Ocean Hazard area the maximum allowable residential density shall be one (1)
residential unit per 10,000 square feet. No more than four (4) residential units per building shall
be allowed and no structure shall exceed 45 feet in height. This policy shall apply only to
vacant unplatted lands as of January 1992. No development of a commercial nature will be
allowed in the Inlet Hazard Areas and residential development in such areas shall be restricted
to single-family structures on existing lots, all subject to the permitting requirements of the
Coastal Area Management Act.
-- The above policy does not prevent the rebuilding of a structure which existed as of January 1,
1992 which may be destroyed in the future, as long as the rebuilding complies with the then
current CAMA requirements and other current building regulations.
-- As a general policy, the town does not want to see any development which will destroy frontal
dunes.
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach believes that only constructed "walkways" or cross -walks,
should be used to cover over the dunes.
-- For existing and previously disturbed dunes, North Topsail Beach believes that efforts to replant
or re -vegetate these vital ocean front landforms, should take place.
1-4

' 1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
-- Any lot or parcel created or proposed for development after certification of this Land Use Plan
shall provide for a "move -back" of any proposed structure. This "move -back" line shall be
established only for the purpose of accommodating a possible relocation of a structure. The
Town shall proceed with developing specific language for defining the parameters of this design
' requirement during calendar year 1993 and shall include such language in the appropriate local
ordinance.
' Ocean Hazards Policies
-- * Oceanside developers, by ordinance (subdivision and/or zoning) will be encouraged to provide
' appropriately constructed dune crossovers.
Physical Constraints to Development
Soil Suitability
-- The town opposes the placement of any additional septic systems within its jurisdiction.
However, there may possibly be some areas where adequate percolation may be feasible. In
such instances, the town will accept the decision of the Onslow County Health Department.
Flood Prone Areas
-' -- The town believes that development should be allowed within flood areas, but only under strict
adherence to the town's Ordinances and Land Use Controls, i.e., Zoning, Subdivision
' Regulations, Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, and N.C. Building Code.
Cultural Resources
' -- In order to ensure proper identification and preservation of significant archaeological resources,
North Topsail Beach will notify the N.C. Division of Archives prior to the development of
previously undisturbed areas.
Development in Proximity of ORW's
-- The town is opposed to the construction of marinas and dredging in the ORW's and in Primary
Nursery Areas, except maintenance dredging, which is allowed. However, dredging is
permitted in the Corps of Engineers jurisdiction of the Intracoastal Waterway.
New residential developments in the ORW impact area shall be restricted to four (4) units per
building. No building shall exceed 45 feet in height.
' -- All development within the ORW impact area shall be setback according the requirements
established by the State of North Carolina and shall maintain consistency with previously stated
buffer requirements.
' -- Maximum lot coverage within the ORW impact area shall be 25%.
Maritime Forests
-- The town believes that all development should be done in a manner which will minimize
disruption of the natural maritime vegetation.
-5

I�
1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
-- Generally, construction should not disturb or destroy any maritime vegetation beyond that
necessary for the footprint of the proposed structure(s) and related uses, plus 8 feet. Lot
'
coverage should not exceed 30%, except for ORW impact areas.
Protection of Potable Water Supply
'
-- The primary water supply for North Topsail Beach comes through the Onslow County System
form wells located beyond the town's jurisdiction. The town would encourage the county to
take all necessary steps to protect this water source.
'
Use of Package Treatment Plants for Sewage Treatment Disposal
'
-- The town opposes the development and discharge of such plants in any ORW, primary nursery
area, any waters classified as "SA", or any coastal wetlands.
Storm Water Runoff
'
-- The town will support existing state regulations relating to stormwater runoff resulting from
development (Stormwater Disposal Policy 15 NCAC 2H.001-1003).
-- North Topsail Beach believes that possible agricultural runoff from estuarine islands should be
controlled through implementation of U.S. Soil Conservation Service "Best Management
Practices" Program, and/or North Carolina State "Best Management Practices."
,
Marina and Floating Home Development
-- North Topsail Beach opposes the construction or expansion of marinas anywhere within the
Stump Sound ORW, primary nursery areas, "SA" waters classifications, or in coastal wetlands.
However, private docks and piers serving individual residential units and containing no more
'
than ten (10) slips will be permitted.
-- Floating homes or structures shall not be used or inhabited for more than 10 days. All waste '
disposal must adhere to requirements of the Onslow County Health Department, and/or the N.C.
Division of Health Services.
-- * North Topsail Beach will not support the development of upland -excavated marinas.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas '
-- North Topsail Beach does not wish to develop any type of industrial uses within its jurisdiction.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands '
-- The town believes that these islands should be developed, only at a low residential density, in
order to enhance and maintain the existing water quality. '
Retaining Wall Construction
-- Before such structures can be placed in the estuarine shoreline AEC or in the estuarine water
AEC, it must be determined through the permitting process that the proposed structure is
consistent with all policies contained within this plan and with all CAMA standards for this type '
of activity.

' 1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
' RESOURCES PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Agricultural and Aouacultural Lands
' -- The town also supports the U.S.C.S. "Best Management Practices Program".
Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
-- North Topsail Beach supports the development density restrictions enforced by local, state, and
federal agencies for land uses in the estuarine system and ORW impact areas.
' -- The town does not support the direct discharge of any potentially noxious substance, including
agricultural/aquacultural runoff, or effluent, into its productive waters.
' Recreation Resources
-- North Topsail Beach believes that additional and appropriate soundside and ocean beach access
' facilities should be developed.
Off -road Vehicles
-- The town believes that a local ordinance for the above purposes needs to be adopted.
Impacts of Any Development on Resources
' -- All permitted development, according to the town's Zoning Ordinance, shall strictly comply with
State CAMA use standards (71-1), so as not to cause adverse impacts upon any AEC or other
fragile resource identified in this plan. Both residential and commercial development may be
permitted within the estuarine system (including ORW), as long as they comply with other
Resource Protection policies of North Topsail Beach.
. Economic and Community Development
Community Attitude Toward Growth
Generally, North Topsail Beach believes in managing and directing the town's growth and
development in balance with environmental protection and enhancement and the availability of
adequate, safe municipal services.
-- That population growth and land development should be based on: 1) the suitability of land to
accommodate the use; 2) the capacity of the environment; 3) the compatibility with goals and
objectives of the town; 4) density; 5) the availability of support facilities and services; and 6)
a responsible attitude toward strict adherence to environmental protection regulations.
Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development
The Town of North Topsail Beach is committed to providing appropriate municipal services to support
additional development within the town's financial capacity.
1
1-7

1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY '
Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired '
Housing
-- It shall be the policy of North Topsail Beach to continue to encourage the development of a '
variety of housing types to meet the needs and desires of existing and future citizens.
Commercial Development '
-- Generally, the town wishes to enhance and promote quality commercial development through
the following:
a. To encourage community businesses to develop in the areas zoned commercial. '
b. To establish standards for the control of landscaping in commercial areas.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas ,
-- There are some older, developed areas within North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction. The town
encourages and supports redevelopment of these areas for purposes of land use compatibility ,
and aesthetics.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs
'
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach will continue to support federal and state programs which
provide benefits and services to the town and its citizens.
,
Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Renourishment
-- The town supports the maintenance activities along the Intracoastal Waterway as conducted
by the Corps.
'
Energy Facilities Siting
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach will not support the development of any industrial use,
including energy facilities. Such uses could cause extensive or irreversible damage to the
town's existing fragile or environmentally sensitive areas.
'
-- The town also opposes the development of energy facilities which would increase the amount
of man-made hazards within its jurisdiction, including the storage and/or trans -shipment of
'
crude oil.
Tourism
,
-- North Topsail Beach is generally supportive of the development and expansion of travel and
tourism facilities. However, all such facilities must be consistent with the policies on Resource
Protection, Resource Production and Management, and other community development policies.
'
Estuarine Beach Access
-- As a matter of policy, the town will continue to support the exploration, assessment and
development of both beach and soundside access opportunities for the public to enjoy.
1-8

1991 POLICY STATEMENT SUMMARY
' Tyoes, Densities, and Locations of Residential Development
-- Generally, the town supports continued residential development and growth according to the
availability of necessary basic support services to support that development. The locations and
densitie.5 should be consistent with the town's Zoning Map and Ordinance.
Local Community Development Issues
' -- Administrative Provisions: The Town of North Topsail Beach, as a newly incorporated town,
recognizes the need for adequate, accurate base maps.
Economic and Community Development: Implementation Strategies
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach will continue to enforce its existing regulations and controls.
' -- In FY93-94, the town will apply for Access Development funds through CAMA, in order to help
acquire and develop more public waterfront access sites for both the beach and soundside
areas.
' CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLANS
It shall be the policy of the Town of North Topsail Beach to continue to promote responsible citizen
participation in planning matters.
STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION PLANS
' The purpose of this section of the 1991 plan is to address issues and concerns relating to the
potentially damaging effects of hurricanes or major coastal storms. This storm -related plan is extensive
' and should be reviewed in its entirety in the actual 1991 plan.
Listed below are some of the sources and documents utilized during preparation of this Land
Use Plan:
North Topsail Beach 1991 Land Use Plan Update
Onslow County 1991 Land Use Plan Update
-- USDA, Soil Conservation Service, Onslow County
-- NCDOT, Planning and Policies Section
'
-- Town of North Topsail Beach Staff
-- Onslow County Schools
-- North Carolina Division of Archives and History
Flood Insurance Study, Town of North Topsail Beach, 1990
_=
Town of North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance
-- N.C. State Data Center, Office of State Planning
'
Town of North Topsail Beach Subdivision Ordinance
== North Carolina Division of Community Assistance
-- North Carolina Division of Coastal Management
North Carolina Department of Economic and Community Development
North Carolina State Building Code
-- Town of North Topsail Beach Planning Advisory Committee
Onslow County Water Authority Plan.
North Topsail Beach Beach and Waterfront Access Plan.
'
I-9

B. DEMOGRAPHICS, ECONOMY, AND HOUSING
1. Regional and County Population Growth
During the past 35 years, the twenty Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) counties have
experienced a total population increase of 63.1 %. This exceeded the North Carolina total
population increase of 55.8%. During that period, all CAMA-regulated counties except four
experienced population increases. These increases ranged from a low of 0.3% in Washington
County to a high of 347.5% in Dare County. Table 1 provides a summary of the population
growth for the CAMA regulated county's from 1960 to 1995.
Onslow County experienced a total 35-year population increase of 89.7%. The CAMA
region's population growth has been greatly inflated by the beach counties where the
population increases ranged from a low of 79.4% in Pender County (excluding Hyde County)
to Dare County's high of 347.5%. In the beach counties, Onslow County was fifth behind
the Counties of Dare, Brunswick, Currituck, and Carteret. These top five beach CAMA
counties ranked well ahead of all other beach counties in population growth. Onslow County
has only one barrier island community, North Topsail Beach. Much of the county's estuarine
shoreline is occupied by Camp LeJeune. In view of those limiting physical factors, Onslow
County's growth has been rather astounding.
The 63.1 % increase in population growth in the coastal counties since 1960 is reflective of
the well -documented national trend of migration to non -metropolitan areas which began in the
late 1960s. By the early 1970s, coastal North Carolina felt the impact of this migration.
Some of the factors influencing the growth of the coastal region include expansion of military
facilities, industrial decentralization, and in particular, the development of recreation and
retirement centers.
The growth of Onslow and other coastal counties as recreational/retirement centers over the
past twenty years has had a significant impact on the composition of the permanent
population, and ultimately, the economic structure of the coastal region. The average
household size has decreased and the median age has increased as coastal North Carolina has
grown as a recreational/retirement center. The coastal areas are gradually losing their rural
character as residential and commercial development have expanded significantly near the
state's shoreline and estuarine areas over the past twenty years. Also, coastal counties such
as Onslow have had a noticeable shift toward a non -basic (service and retail) economy over
the past twenty years. Increased retail trade and growth of service industries are the result
of seasonal demand and retiree in -migration to the coastal region.
The increased military and industrial presence in coastal North Carolina has also influenced
permanent population growth, peak population growth, and changes in population composition
in Onslow and other coastal counties since 1960. The appeal of the region to industry and
the military -- availability of open space, low tax and wage structure, relatively few "urban"
problems -- also adds to its appeal to retirees and seasonal homeowners.
Table 2 provides a summary of the distribution of Onslow County's population by municipality
from 1970 to 1995. North Topsail Beach was the county's fourth largest municipality with
a 1995 population of 1,070.
1-10

Table 1
Total Population and Percent Change for CAMA-Regulated Counties, 1960-1995
County
Total Population
1960
1970
1980
1990
1995
Beaufort
36,014
35,980
40,355
42,283
43,537
Bertie
24,350
20,477
21,024
20,388
20,365
Brunswick
20,278
24,223
35,777
50,985
59,376
Camden
5,598
5,453
5,829
5,904
6,124
Carteret
27,438
31,603
41,092
52,556
58,963
Chowan
11,729
10,764
12,558
13,506
14,239
Craven
58,773
62,554
71,043
81,613
88,455
Currituck
6,601
6,976
11,089
13,736
15,486
Dare
5,935
6,995
13,377
22,746
26,558
Gates
9,254
8,524
8,875
9,305
9,758
Hertford
22,718
23,529
23,368
22,523
22,409
Hyde
5,765
5,571
5,873
5,411
5,346
New Hanover
71,742
82,996
103,471
120,284
132,506
Onslow
82,706
103,126
112,784
149,838
156,920
Pamlico
9,850
9,467
10,398
11,372
11,906
Pasquotank
25,630
26,824
28,462
31,298
33,117
Pender
18,508
18,149
22,262
28,855
33,205
Perquimans
9,178
8,351
9,486
10,447
10,748
Tyrrell
4,520
3,806
3,975
3,856
3,837
Washington
13,488
14,038
14,801
13,997
13,890
Total
470,075
509,406
595,899
710,903
766,745
North Carolina
4,556,155
5,084,411
5,880,095
6,628,637
7,098,336
Source: State Data
Center, N.C. Office of State
Planning.
* 1995 population
based on estimate.
' 60-' 70
-0.1 %
-15.9%
19.4%
-2.6%
15.2%
-8.2%
6.4 %
5.7 %
17.9 %
-7.9%
3.6%
-3.4 %
15.7%
24.7 %
-4.2 %
4.7%
-1.9%
-9.0%
-15.8%
4.1 %
8.4 %
11.6%
Percent Increase
'70-'80
180-190
12.2%
4.8%
2.7%
-3.0%
47.7%
42.5%
6.9%
1.3%
30.0%
27.9%
16.7%
7.5%
13.6%
14.9%
58.9%
23.9%
91.2%
70.0%
4.1 %
4.8%
-0.7%
-3.6%
5.4%
-7.9%
24.7%
16.2%
9.4%
32.9%
9.8%
9.4%
6.1 %
10.0%
22.7%
29.6%
13.6%
10.1 %
4.4%
-3.0%
5.4%
-5.4%
16.9%
19.3%
15.6%
12.7%
'90-'95*
Overall
'60-'95
3.0%
20.9%
-0.09%
-16.3%
16.5%
192.8%
3.7%
9.3%
12.2%
113.4%
5.4%
21.4%
8.4%
50.5%
12.7%
134.6%
16.8%
347.5%
4.8%
5.4%
-0.5%
-1.3%
-1.2%
-7.2%
10.2%
84.7%
4.7%
89.7%
4.7%
20.9%
5.8%
29.2%
15.1%
79.4%
2.9%
17.1%
-0.5%
-15.1%
-0.7%
0.3%
7.9%
63.1 %
7.1 %
55.8%

Table 2
Onslow County
Summary of Year -Round Population Growth, 1970-1995
Municipality/Area
Year -Round Population
Percentage
Change
Overall
1970
1980
1990
1995
'70280
'80290
190-195
'70295
Holly Ridge
415
465
728
767
12.0%
56.6%
5.4%
84.8%
Jacksonville
16,289
18,259
30,398
75,069
12.1 %
66.5%
147.0%
360.9%
North Topsail Beach 1
P
::::}fit:
301
947
1,070
:I y;
I• :$f•.r•:
0
14
2 .6 0
/
�
3
1 .0 /o
Richlands
935
825
996
1,268
-11.8%
20.7%
27.3%
35.6%
Surf City (Part) [2]
{'.;::..:•$?:$$::v:,.. v:}•.?•r:::.•.•::::.v:.,.•.••.•.•:
.... :vw•}4?.}:.ri •.}.r,;r?:v:.v:: z.: v::.:..•:}v,.
:.:::.::::..::. .:;::?.:.:......?;:. ....::
.,::...:.?.$:<.+.:'.�::}..}.._z.$...,,.:7.�,.•:•.::::......••.?:�
317
333
:r.Y. n.
:::.:. :.::::.
`'�'��a�,'"' ..... � ::.::.::.
5.0 /o
i:T`.:}.$:'?•`.v:?'ri}v: • n. }.,
Swansboro
1,207
976
1,165
1,351
-19.1 %
19.4%
16.0%
11.9%
Total Municipalities
18,846
20,826
34,551
79,858
10.5%
65.9%
131.1 %
323.7%
Total Unincorporated Areas
84,280
91,958
115,287
68,054
9.1 %
25.4%
-41.0%
-19.3%
Total County
103,126
112,784
149,838
147,912
9.4%
32.9%
-1.3%
43.4%
Source: North Carolina Office of State Planning; extrapolation of data for unincorporated areas by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
[1] Incorporated after 1990; separate counts for 1980 to 1990 are from Office of State Planning.
[2] Annexed after the 1980 Census.
1-12
M I♦ = M = = M M 1=1 = = = = 1=1 = M = M

' 2. North Topsail Beach Population, Economic, and Housing Conditions
The Town of North Topsail Beach was incorporated in 1990 following completion of the 1990
U.S. Census. Table 2 provides estimates of North Topsail Beach's population for 1980, 1990,
and 1995. During this 15-year period, the town's population increased from 301 to 1,070.
' This was an overall increase of 355.5%. In Onslow County for 1980-1995, this increase was
second only to Jacksonville. The overall municipal growth rate for Onslow County was
383.5%.
' In 1990, a special census was conducted which indicated that 1,812 of a total of 2,173
dwelling units located in North Topsail Beach were seasonal. Thus, there were approximately
361 year-round dwelling units. Based on this data, the average household size was 2.62
persons per household.
' During Hurricane Fran, approximately 50 year-round dwelling units were destroyed and cannot
be replaced because either the lot was completely lost or CAMA regulations prohibit
replacement because of reduced lot size. Most of these homes were occupied by older long-
term residents. If those displaced residents cannot find permanent replacement housing, the
town's population base would be reduced by 131 persons (50 x 2.62 = 131).
It is estimated that the town's population is less than two percent (2%) minority. Most of the
town's population is white and of retirement age.
' 3. Town of North Topsail Beach Seasonal Population
North Topsail Beach's permanent and year-round population is supplemented by a significant
peak seasonal population. The methodology used in this study will closely follow a
demographic analysis of recreational population for the Albemarle -Pamlico region prepared by
Paul D. Tschetter of East Carolina University in 1988. The advantage of the ECU analysis is
' that it relies on an extensive empirical enumeration of marine boat slips, motel rooms, and
campgrounds in addition to private seasonal housing units. The study also includes an
excellent approach to estimating average population by type of individual housing unit. For
purposes of the ECU study (and this demographic analysis), "total seasonal housing units"
' includes:
1) all single- and multi -family private housing units used by the overnight tourist
' population rather than the permanent population;
2) all motel/hotel rooms (including bed and breakfasts);
3) all seasonal and transient campground sites; and
4) all individual marina wet slips capable of docking boats of a size and type which
can house people overnight.
t Marina facilities for fueling/repair only (no overnight dockage), and those that only dock
commercial fishing boats, are excluded from the enumeration of seasonal housing units.
However, within North Topsail Beach there are no motel/hotel units or marinas which can
' accommodate overnight dockage. An enumeration of seasonal housing units was conducted
to arrive at the totals presented in Table 3. The town's total 1996 seasonal population is
estimated at 11,265.

Table 3
Town of North Topsail Beach
Seasonal, Permanent, and Total Peak Population,
1996 '
1996*
Number Persons Peak Seasonal
Housing Type of Units Per Unit Population
Campsites 600
Private Housing Units [1) 1,819
Total 2,419 [21
Permanent Population
Peak Seasonal Population
Total Peak Population
3.5 2,100
5 9,095
11,195
1,070
11,195
12,265
[11 Includes units "vacant -held for occasional use" and "other vacant" as defined by the 1990 U.S. Census. Adjusted
to compensate for units destroyed during Hurricane Fran.
121 Source: Town of North Topsail Beach.
" The figures for Campsites are pre -Hurricane Fran. The most recent data available for Private Housing Units and Permanent
Population is 1990.
4. Day Visitor
The peak seasonal population figure does not include "day visitor" usage of North Topsail
Beach facilities, beaches, waters, and natural areas. Day visitors significantly increase the
population during tourist season.
The peak day visitor days are the Fourth of July and Labor Day. The Fourth of July is normally
the busiest day. The North Topsail Beach Police Department estimates peak day visitor traffic
at 6,000 people. This volume of day visitors has almost the same impact on the town's
services and infrastructure as does the peak "overnight" population.
5. Economy
As in 1991, tourism and residential resort development continue to provide the town's primary
economic base. It is difficult to accurately assess the significance of North Topsail Beach's
contribution to the overall Onslow County economy. Because of the absence of 1990
Census, detailed economic data is not available. Table 4 provides Onslow County tourism
expenditures for 1988 and 1995. During this period, the county's tourism expenditures
increased $33,603,000, an increase of 62.7%.
Table 4
Onslow County
Tourism Income, 1988 & 1995
Travel Expenditures
Year (000) % Change
1988 $53,597 ---
1995 $87,200 62.7%
Change from 1988-1995 $33,603
Source: NC Travel and Tourism Division, Department of Commerce.
1-14

' North Topsail Beach, the City of Jacksonville, and Swansboro are the leading generators of
tourism expenditures within the county. While not an exact gauge, the distribution of room
' occupancy taxes by municipality provides a rough indicator of the distribution of travel
expenditures. In 1995, it was estimated that North Topsail Beach accounted for 30% of the
county's tourism expenditures, an approximate total of $26,160,000.
' Table 5 provides a summary of Onslow County room occupancy taxes for 1990, 1995, and
most of 1996. From 1990 to 1996, the annual revenues increased approximately $91,370,
' an increase of 28%.
Table 5
' Onslow County
Room Occupancy Tax Revenues, 1990, 1995, and 1996
' Month Room Occupancy Tax Revenues
1990 1995 1996
January $15,800 $18,686 $20,403
t February 16,066 20,735 21,793
March 21,126 26,277 26,109
April 23,461 31,415 31,438
' May 24,359 31,980 37,894
June 32,658 45,453 53,861
July 50,150 73,617 55,438
August 45,461 56,748 52,864
September 29,192 40,336 36,756
i' October 19,117 25,900 36,612
November 20,692* 21,774 21,800**
December 27,516* 21,935 22,000**
' Total $325,598 $414,856 $416,968.
*NOTE: Room occupancy tax revenues in November and December, 1990, were 21.2% and 95.5%
' higher, respectively, than revenues collected in November and December, 1989. This increase is
directly attributed to the impact of families and relatives visiting troops at Camp Lejeune prior to their
departure for Operation Desert Storm. Conversely, room occupancy revenues were 10% lower in
January, 1991, than revenues for January, 1990, because of the major departure of troops from Camp
' Lejeune for Operation Desert Storm.
* *The reports for occupancy taxes received in December and January for earnings in November and
' December have not been prepared. These months are estimated based on 1995 data.
Source: Onslow County Finance Department.
The monthly distribution of room occupancy taxes is indicative of seasonal distribution of the
tourist expenditures. The peak season normally extends from June through Labor Day.
' The major source of tourist revenue in North Topsail Beach is housing rentals. The town's
commercial base is limited to three businesses. Most commercial services continue to be
' provided on the mainland or in Surf City.
1-15

The significance of tourism to the Onslow County economy is rapidly increasing. The '
following provides a summary of the impact of tourism on Onslow County:
$ Impact Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $87.2 million in Onslow
County in 1995. This is a 5.9% increase over 1994 and compares with a
North Carolina average of 8.1 % and a national average of 5.1 %. Onslow is '
21 st in tourism impact among all 100 North Carolina counties.
Jobs
1,370 jobs in Onslow County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. An
estimated 1,918 additional jobs are related to this sector. Travel generated a
'
$20.34 million payroll in Onslow County last year.
Taxes
State and local tax revenues from travel to Onslow County amounted to $6.83
'
million in 1995. This represents a $44 tax savings for each resident.
Attractions
Area attractions -- at Hammocks Beach State Park, Topsail Island, Sneads
Ferry, and Jacksonville -- offer ample opportunities for swimming, fishing,
boating, scuba diving, camping, golf, and bicycling.
Visitors
A 1994 survey found historic sites, beaches, scenic areas, museums, golf, and
fishing most popular among visitors to North Carolina. Average age is 41 years;
45% had household incomes $50,000 or more; 48% are college graduates and
'
21 % are graduate or professional school educated.
Origins
Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida,
'
Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia. International
visitors come mainly from Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and
France.
'
Hotels Some 38% of visitors stay in hotels and motels. Hotel occupancy for the
southern coast region varies seasonally. In 1995, it ranged from 78% in July '
to 35% in November. Fluctuations were similar in 1994. During 1995 average
daily rates ranged from $63.20 to $31.13.
Employment within North Topsail Beach is extremely limited because of the lack of retail/
commercial enterprises. Except for municipal government employees, all other employment '
within the town is limited to services and retail trade. Table 6 provides an analysis of 1994
employment within Onslow County and a comparison with North Carolina. The county ranked
well ahead of the state in retail/wholesale trade employment, but was significantly behind the '
state in manufacturing employment. The county's average wage of $16,325 was only 69.7%
of the state's average wage.

Table 6
1994 Onslow County Employment
'92-94
'92-94
1994
% of
% of
% Change
% Change
'94 Annual
% of NC
Employment Sector
Employment
County Emp.
NC Emp.
County Emp.
NC Emp.
Av .Wage
Av .Wage
Agriculture
248
0.8%
1.2%
34.8%
15.9%
$15,700
97.7%
Construction
2,081
6.4%
5.0%
11.3%
14.4%
$16,506
72.2%
Financial/Ins/Real Est
1,139
3.5%
4.3%
5.4%
8.0%
$18,181
59.3%
Government
10,362
31.8%
15.7%
2.7%
5.1 %
$20,359
81.1 %
Manufacturing
2,039
6.3%
25.8%
-10.4%
3.2%
$18,341
68.8%
Services
4,947
15.2%
20.3%
16.2%
13.2%
$14,649
67.9%
Retail/Wholesale Trade
10,439
32.1%
23.0%
11.3%
7.0%
$11,780
67.2%
Trans/Comm/Pub Util
1,291
4.0%
4.8%
5.4%
5.8%
$21,894
67.5%
TOTAL
32,570
100.0%
100.0%
7.2%
7.3%
$16,325
69.7%
Source:
1-17

Unemployment within the county has historically been low. Except for four months during
1995 and 1996, the unemployment rate never exceeded 4.0%.
Tax base provides an indicator of a municipality's economic growth. However, data for real
property valuation is only available since 1989 because of the incorporation of North Topsail
Beach in 1990. Table 7 provides a summary of real property tax valuations for selected fiscal
years between 1989/1990 and 1996/1997. It should be noted that real property tax value
is not necessarily the same as the real value of property. Both permanent and temporary
losses have occurred.
Table 7
Town of North Topsail Beach
Property Tax Valuations 1989-1997
Year (FY)
Value (000)
Change
1989/90
$165,605
--
1990/91
$192,804
$27,199 (16.4%)*
1994/95
$233,409
$40,605 (21.1%)*
1995/96
$248,901
$15,492 (6.6%)*
1996/97
$177,336
-$71,565 (-28.8%) * *
*Partially attributable to discoveries and adjustments.
"Attributable to Hurricanes Bertha and Fran.
Sources: Town of North Topsail Beach and the Onslow County Tax Department.
Based on Onslow County Tax Department data, in North Topsail Beach, hurricanes Bertha and
Fran resulted in a total real property loss of approximately $71.6 million. The actual value of
the real property loss is expected to be slightly higher than this figure. This is due to the fact
that just prior to the storms, the total real property valuation in North Topsail Beach would
have been slightly higher than the $248.9 million indicated in Table 7 for FY1995/96. Much
of the loss will be replaced; however, more than 50% of the town's oceanfront lots were
totally lost or rendered unbuildable because of CAMA regulations because erosion reduced lot
size. Therefore, there will be some permanent loss of real property. This is estimated at
approximately $17 million. The 40.9% increase in property value from 1989/1990 to
1993/1994 is largely attributable to the strength of residential construction in North Topsail
Beach. During FY96/97, the town's tax rate was $.29 per $100 of property valuation. Of
this total, $.03 is set aside for dune maintenance.
The growth in property value has been accompanied by an increase in North Topsail Beach's
revenues and expenditures. The growth of the town's residential base has resulted in a
greater demand for municipal services which is supported by the increased tax base. Table
8 provides a comparison of the town's 1990 and 1994 revenues and expenditures. From
1970 to 1994, the town's total revenues increased by 66.2% while the total expenditures
increased by 886.3%. This huge increase was primarily because the municipal government
was not fully operational in the initial year of operation.
1-18

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
Table 8
Town of North Topsail Beach
Revenues and Expenditures, 1990 and 1994
Revenue by Source
Property Taxes
Local Option Sales Tax
Other Taxes
Federal Intergovernmental
State Intergovernmental
Local Intergovernmental
Permits and Fees
Sales and Services
Utilities
Miscellaneous
Other Financing Sources
Total
Expenditure by Type
General Government
Public Safety
Transportation
Environmental Protection
Economic and Physical Development
Human Services
Culture and Recreation
Utilities
Debt Service
Nondepartmental
Other
Intergovernmental:
Social Services
Public Schools
Community Colleges
Total
Expenditure by Object
420,000
46,452
126,186
0
0
0
3,076
0
0
3,720
0
46,432
60,136
0
0
10,605
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
117,000
Salaries and Wages 22,384
Other Operating Expenses 28,820
Non -School Capital Outlay 65,969
Public School Capital Outlay 0
Public School Current Expenses 0
Other 0
Source: North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.
1-19
1994
640,000
82,854
8,848
13,795
167,075
0
20,858
0
0
45,735
17,096
997,000
408,225
457,250
117,004
28,900
25,651
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
11037,000
407,546
333,596
295,888
0
0

6. Housinq
In 1990, there were approximately 361 year-round dwelling units and 1,812 seasonal dwelling
units. Most of these units were less than ten years old, having been constructed during the
1980s. From 1991 to 1995, permits were issued for the construction of 140 additional
dwelling units. These units are summarized in Table 9.
Table 9
Town of North Topsail Beach
Residential Building Permits 1991-1995
Single-
Duplex
Triplex
Total
Family Units
Units
Units
Units
1991
10
2
0
12
1992
5
2
0
7
1993
0
8
0
8
1994
27
4
13
44
1995
51
18
0
69
TOTAL
93
34
13
140
Source: Town of North Topsail Beach.
These additional units increased the 1995 pre -storm dwelling unit totals to approximately 454
year-round dwelling units and 1,859 seasonal dwelling units.
Hurricane Fran did substantial damage to the town's housing inventory. Table 10 provides
a summary of the structure damage including dwelling units. A total of 320 dwelling units
were destroyed or are so severely damaged that they were destroyed following the storm.
Of this total, approximately 50 were year-round residences. Approximately 50 of the 320
dwelling units have been rebuilt. The remaining 270 units have not been rebuilt for a variety
of reasons including lack of owner confidence and inadequate building area because of beach
erosion and CAMA setback requirements.
Table 10
Town of North Topsail Beach
Hurricane Fran Structure Damage
Single-
Mobile
Family
Homes &
# of
Total
Total
Total
Total
Homes
DW
Apartments
Homes
Businesses
Gov't.
Other
Destroyed
169
95
0
264
2
2
8
Major Damage
362
207
536
1,105
4
1
10
Minor Damage
202
79
0
281
0
1
2
Total
733
381
536
1,650
6
4
20
Source: Town of North Topsail Beach.
The adjusted post -storm dwelling unit total was approximately 400 year-round and 1,590
seasonal dwelling units. Following Hurricane Fran, approximately five percent, or 100 of the
town's total housing inventory, was manufactured (mobile) homes.
1-20

The issuance of building permits slowed from 1990 to 1995 from the rate of issuance in the
late 1980s. In the early 1990s, an average of 28 permits per year were issued, compared to
' 128 per year in the late 1980s.
Subdivision approval is also an indicator of residential activity. Table 11 provides a summary
' of approved subdivision plats from 1986 to 1995. During the ten-year period, a total of 41
subdivision plats, which included 860 lots, were approved within the area currently included
within North Topsail Beach.
' Table 11
North Topsail Beach
Subdivision Approvals 1986-1995
1986-1990 1991-1995
' Name of No. of Name of No. of Name of No. of
Development Lots/Units Development Lots/Units Development Lots/Units
Beach Club Villas 4 Wm & Katie Smith 23 Crystal Shores II 27
Bermuda Landing 64 Jefferson Shores 6 Ocean Sound 31
Village
Ocean Breeze 7 LaCosta Bay 15 Lucille Parker 2
Ocean Cay 9 Pelican Bay 7 Doris Schindewolf 2
' Ocean Ridge I, II, III 88 Ocean Wynds 1 21 Major Davis 2
Permuda Dunes 6 Ocean Wynds 111 12 Summersill Shores 3
Portofino & 46 Cormorant Place 4 Summersill/Heath 3
Duplexes Creek
Sea Ranches 9 Wyndy Dunes 17 Harris Sub. Sect. 1 7
St. Moritz Condos 32 Cape Island 61 Harris Sub. Sect. 11 9
Summertime 53 Emerald Dunes 10 Harris Sub. Sect. 111 9
' Hampton Colony 25 Sea Dunes Village 34 Village of Stump 65
Sound I
Topsail Villas 28 Ocean Club Village 1 28 Village of Stump 42
Sound II
+-, Ocean Club Village II 13 Otha Herring Sub. 10
Royal Dunes II 10 C&M Investments 5
Crystal Shores 1 11
Source: Onslow County Planning Department and Town of North Topsail Beach.
C. EXISTING LAND USE
1. Introduction
1 The existing land use has been significantly altered since 1990 as a result of Hurricane Fran.
The existing land use is shown on Map 1. The map delineates the current shoreline. The land
area lost to erosion and storm activity is also delineated. More than 50% of the oceanfront
' lots in North Topsail Beach have either been totally lost or rendered unbuildable because of
CAMA regulations because erosion reduced lot size. Significant land loss has occurred both
along the New River Inlet and the oceanfront. During Hurricane Fran, most of the oceanfront
' tier of lots were lost. In addition, several new inlets were cut along SR 1568 on the north end
of the beach. Several of those inlets opened and closed repeatedly before Fran. One of these
continues to have sustained tidal flow. The location of this new inlet is indicated on the
' existing land use map.
1-21
1

• SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL "T- PRIVATE DRIVE
PUBLIC ACCESS
MULTI -FAMILY RESIDENTIAL — _ _ —TOWN LIMITS
......­lA►Av �ACCRICAIT
SHORELINE-
- MAP 1 A
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
EXISTING LAND USE
1-22
Ine preparation of tims mdP waa niiau-culie
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.

' MAP 1 B -
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
1 -
EXISTING LAND USE
NTRACOAS7AL rATMWAP O- Sal - ..-
LEGEND \
' The .preparation of this map was financed in / — — • I
SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL art through a rant p g g provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program,
' MULTI -FAMILY RESIDENTIAL through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Tit1JRDE7= CEDUMMMMLA D
, I
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
1 is administered by' the Office of Ocean and �*� ► / I o
MOBILE HOME Coastal Resource Management, National r
-`- Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. ,
. ....�- ..�,'... :PARKS &RECREATION saw
Poorr
A '�"MDAT COMMERCIAL
I�
_ OFFICE & INSTITUTIONAL IW�
/
, / I
SO MD -r PRIVATE DRIVE /
-
- PUBLIC ACCESS °"°►k. /
i
_..»urE RA+• ��__ — �� — _ — •— — — TOWN LIMITS
=_ INTRACOASTAL WATERWAY EASEMENT ,
��
' •.,
OCEAN Qug
MAND
MACE . �. I
JC1+STAC 9+oREs . C sA,n—1�=�RwAr a_ i� 1
:? AU "= MAT I — — `� _ / ' ACCESS
- w+ENr /\ �,��, SHORELINE
OCEAN SoIA'O cOR►. _ � ` - - / '¢� i EASEUENT Q
CES
T WN HAL.1,
Ctb
rT•pP
n� S � -..'O BA1' RCO"Py+�r C I �j \\�✓//� I � N lr \
SHORELINEMOO
COURTY • z- •rig d MARSH IK
H41Prd ONP OCEAN SOUND
— ----�— � r • cEoncc A!TrEr[s � :. P. /
Ro*µ I SALTT•s ►Ni ! _ T 4o ROKrR /
s•+KsrAT,
' �• —� _ _ DIR+ES R OC['w QUR NLIACE 1 ,'EA 0LR`(S IUACE EYERµp
\ w• � n. r w,.r � / _ - _ - •- _ aRAES Pl1A I I I w., r r
\ L/Al/TS "tEACE cAPPoAN HORRS /sl,rp HEr RnVER
_ - � � • rx A �`� c /
— oms,p,r atEAH e
—� WYN� OLREs I coRlaR.wr .CAT ,lop , c A RArpcs _ 1\ Ae.+ow(�l = Co' P111m,
WACC o.l
R. PACE -" - RACE WA U" AN N �ERE,K E !:I
ROrER OCEAr�eA� rt SEA pRACdS \ I ��
I SLUE - _ _ -C. T. O-CkS. ET AL "ILAGE CO"PAN :Yltd BAP PORTION or +.P+IER WAIN( I TOPSAL par ly.
' SECOpN i uS �RZON c. PAO4Tr �--��. _ _ CTrASrAL AY Id5'k OIRiS SwwATON MKT IA) I TEws carers
tops a "EEAs — TOA�Il/TS�� \ I BEACH _ towo"wwss T. REsoRr rzsncERSN(al r 5ECigy 1 �•'� "LLAA 5 XMRSON OO+VD H.r. SHORES PN.r W. OVER
BA '
CO AL ARN1RES OUEHZER (C) I REACH CLUB /.
RIER RFSOIRICE 5T57Ey 120' ACCESS
EUE�lnrr
NEW INLET FORMED _ — —------_ _ _ MOW LLf//TS
DURING HURRICANE FRAN _
1-23

7
2. Urban and Developed Land
' Table 12 provides a generalized summary of land use by lot in 1996. It is emphasized that
because of the storm damage it was extremely difficult to conduct a precise in -field survey.
For example, some structures may have been counted which will require demolition. In other
' cases, it may have been difficult to determine the location of a given structure in relation to
the property boundary lines.
Table 12
North Topsail Beach
1996 Land Use Summary
' Lots % of Sub -total
Single -Family 420 38.4%
Multi -Family 548 50.1 %
' Mobile Homes 104 9.5%
0&1 (includes utilities) 13 1.2%
Commercial 3 0.3%
Parks & Recreation 6 0.5%
SUBTOTAL 1,094 100%
Vacant 730
' TOTAL 1,824
Source: Holland Consulting Planners, Inc.
Very little change in the town's predominant land use patterns has occurred since 1990. The
' town continues to be almost exclusively a residential community. Nonresidential land use
appeared to occupy only two percent of the town's developed parcels. The remaining 98%
of the developed parcels were committed to residential usage. Approximately 50% of the
' residential parcels were committed to multi -family land use, with single-family site built
structures occupying 38.4% of the parcels. Mobile homes occupied approximately 9.5% of
the parcels.
It is anticipated that North Topsail Beach will continue to be a quiet, predominantly residential
community. The basic pattern of land use is distinctively different north and south of the
' Highway 210 Intracoastal Waterway Bridge. The existing land use map is divided into two
sections at this point, which geographically divides the town into two equal sections.
Historically the southern end of North Topsail Beach had better access via NC 210 through
' Surf City. As a result, the south end of the town was the first to develop. This older area
contains a mixture of manufactured homes; and site built single-family, duplexes,
quadraplexes, and condominiums constructed at varying densities. Onslow County did not
' adopt zoning until the 1980s. Thus, much of the southern end of North Topsail Beach
developed without land use controls. Many of the manufactured homes were destroyed by
Hurricane Fran and may not be replaced. In addition, some owners of small lots which were
' occupied by manufactured homes prior to the storm have indicated that they will not replace
the manufactured homes but will combine the parcels to form larger lots and construct site
built homes.
' I-24

Most of the northern end of North Topsail Beach was developed after 1982 following the
adoption of zoning by Onslow County. This prohibited the installation of manufactured homes
north of the NC 210 bridge. The northern end is dominated by high density condominiums,
duplexes and quadraplexes. This development contains many large high density
condominiums including: Topsail Reef, Shipwatch, Topsail Dunes, St. Regis Resort, and Villa
Capriani. Road access to this area has been, and continues to be, a significant factor
influencing development. Overwash on roads on the northern end has been a problem. This
will be discussed in detail in the constraints analysis.
Because the hurricane rendered many oceanfront lots unbuildable, the town may have
increased opportunities to secure property for ocean access sites. This may be accomplished
through private donation or purchase if grant funds are made available. A new shoreline and
water access study was completed in 1996. While the plan was not rewritten to respond to
the storm damage, it was revised by addendum to recognize the storm damage. That plan
will be discussed in detail in the Development Constraints: Public Facilities section of this
plan. All shoreline access structures within the town were damaged or destroyed. . Re-
establishment of the shoreline access facilities will have an impact on the town's land use
patterns.
Redevelopment following the storm may have a significant impact on the configuration of the
town's land use patterns. Many destroyed uses did not comply with existing zoning and may
not be replaced. Thus, the town may be confronted with widespread requests for rezoning.
The density of development will be an issue because of water and sewer capacity and the
mixture of single- and multi -family land uses.
During the storm, the town's entire frontal dune structure was destroyed. Much of the sand
from these dunes was deposited in the salt marsh located on the west side of Topsail Island.
During late 1996 and 1997, the town was undertaking repair/re-establishment of the dune
system. The final determination of unbuildable lots cannot be made until stable natural
vegetation is growing on the dune. At that time, it will be possible to determine the extent
of buildable area existing within state and local setback lines.
3. Summary: Population, Economy. Housing, and Existing Land Use
The following provides a summary of significant population, economy, housing, and land use
findings:
Population
-- Within the Coastal Area Management Region, Onslow County was ranked fifth
in population growth from 1960 to 1995.
-- Approximately 130 permanent residents (approximately 12% of the permanent
population) were displaced by Hurricane Fran.
-- During the summer of 1996, the town experienced a total peak population of
approximately 12,265 including 1,070 permanent residents and a peak
seasonal population of 11,195.
-- The North Topsail Beach Police Department estimates peak day visitor traffic
at approximately 6,000 people.
1-25

' Economy
' -- From 1988 to 1995, Onslow County tourism expenditures increased by 62.7%
-- North Topsail Beach accounted for approximately 30% of Onslow County's
' 1995 tourism expenditures.
-- North Topsail Beach has extremely limited employment opportunities because
' of its limited commercial base.
-- From 1989/90 to 1994/95, North Topsail Beach's pre -storm property value
increased 40.9%.
' -- Hurricanes Bertha and Fran resulted in a total real property loss of
approximately $71.6 million.
' Housing
' -- Most of North Topsail Beach's housing inventory is less than 15 years old.
-- During Hurricane Fran, a total of 320 dwelling units were destroyed or so
' severely damaged that they could not be repaired.
-- During the early 1990s, an annual average of 28 building permits were issued,
as compared to an annual average of 128 during the 1980s.
-- From 1986 to 1995, an annual average of 86 residential lots were approved for
subdivision.
Existing Land Use
' -- During Hurricane Fran, the town's entire frontal dune system was destroyed.
-- The town is almost entirely residential with 88.5% of its developed lots utilized
tfor residential purposes.
-- All of the town's shoreline access facilities were damaged or destroyed during
' Hurricane Fran.
-- The density and type of development in the northern and southern sections of
' the town is distinctively different.
4. Development Potential
' Following Hurricane Fran, there were approximately 970 vacant buildable lots available for
development. If the 1990-1995 rate of development is sustained, total build -out of North
' Topsail Beach would require 34 years. However, it is anticipated that total build -out would
present significant infrastructure capacity problems. The town's development potential is
discussed further in Section II on pages 2 and 3 of this plan.
' I-26

The town has maintained a philosophy of tightly controlling commercial development. In
1996, only three parcels were committed to commercial usage. It is expected that while
some increase in commercial usage will occur, the town will continue to prohibit large scale
increases in commercial land usage. A development issue may be the desired mixture of
single/multi-family land use.
The following factors will influence North Topsail Beach's development potential:
-- Capacity of the water and sewer systems serving the town.
-- Re-establishment of the town's frontal dune system.
-- Protection of Areas of Environmental Concern, some of which suffered
significant damage during Hurricane Fran.
-- Almost all of the town is located in the V flood zone following Hurricane Fran.
-- As a result of CAMA regulations, many oceanfront properties were rendered
unbuildable by Hurricane Fran. Although some variances may be granted for
reconstruction, this will not be the case in all instances.
-- Occasional ocean overwash in the north end of the town is expected to
continue to be a problem.
-- Attaining a proper mixture of single/multi-family land use will be a concern.
-- Re-establishment/repair of the town's shoreline access facilities is a significant
post -storm need.
-- Currently, zoning will result in a change in the appearance and density of land
use in southern North Topsail Beach during post -storm redevelopment.
5. Existing Ordinances and Land Use Controls
North Topsail Beach has an effective land use management program. The town has adopted
and enforces a number of local codes, ordinances, and plans to regulate development. These
controls are managed by the Board of Aldermen with the support of the Planning Board and
Town Building Inspections Department. The town's staff has been adequate to enforce the
ordinances and meet demands for permits. The town does not have extraterritorial
jurisdiction.
The following provides a summary of the town's land use -related codes, ordinances, and
plans:
a. Town of North Topsail Beach CAMA Land Use Plan, 1991
The town's 1991 CAMA Land Use Plan was.prepared to comply with the 15A NCAC
7B planning guidelines. Since 1991, the document has served as the town's CAMA-certified
Land Use Plan. The stated primary objective of the plan is the preservation of land and water
resources with all development being consistent with this objective. Pages three through nine
1-27

F
' provide a summary of the policy statements included in the 1991 plan. Those policies are
designed to protect the town's Areas of Environmental Concern as defined by 15A NCAC 7H.
Ib. Town of North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance
The Town of North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance was adopted May 2, 1990. The
'
purpose of the ordinance is to
regulate the use of land in order to provide for safe, orderly, and
harmonious growth and development. The zoning ordinance text is accompanied by a map
'
which divides the town into fourteen districts. Those districts including the following:
Con-D
Conservation District
'
R-A
Residential -Agricultural
R-20
Residential District
R-15
Residential District
'
R-10
Residential District
R-8
Multi -Family Residential
'
CU-R-8
Conditional Use Multi -Family Residential
R-5
Multi -Family Residential
CU-R-5
Conditional Use Multi -Family Residential
'
MHR
Manufactured Housing Residential
B-1
Business District
CU-B-1
Conditional Use Business District
B-2
Marina Business District
CU-B-2
Conditional Use Marina Business District
C. Town of North
Topsail Beach Subdivision Ordinance
The Town of North Topsail Beach Subdivision Ordinance was adopted on July 27,
1990. The following provides the stated purpose of the ordinance:
' The purpose of this ordinance is to establish procedures and standards for the
development and subdivision of land within the territorial jurisdiction of the
' Town of North Topsail Beach. It is further designed to provide for the orderly
growth and development of the town; for the coordination of streets and
highways within proposed subdivisions with existing or planned streets and
' highways and with other public facilities; for the dedication or preservation of
recreation areas serving residents of the immediate neighborhood within the
subdivision and of rights -of -way or easements for street and utility purposes;
and for the distribution of population and traffic in a manner that will avoid
' congestion and overcrowding and will create conditions essential to public
health, safety, and the general welfare. This ordinance is designed to further
facilitate adequate provision of water, sewerage, parks, schools, and
playgrounds, and also to facilitate the further resubdivision of larger tracts into
smaller parcels of land.
' I-28

d. National Flood Insurance Damage Prevention Ordinance
The town's flood ordinance was adopted on May 2, 1990. The Federal Flood
Insurance Program is in effect in North Topsail Beach. Federal Flood Insurance is not available
for structures built or substantially improved on or after October 1, 1983, in designated
undeveloped coastal barrier islands (Coastal Barrier Resources Act, Public Law 97-348). Prior
to Hurricane Fran, only the following three general areas qualified for Federal Flood Insurance:
-- The southern section of the town between Surf City and a point approximately
.5 miles south of Paradise Pier;
-- The Galleon Bay area including Bay Court, Marina Way, and Tradewinds Drive;
and
-- The Topsail Reef and North Topsail Shores area including Marina Drive, Sea Gull
Lane, Coastal Drive, Oyster Lane, Port Drive, River Road, and New River Inlet
Road.
All other areas must obtain private flood insurance or obtain an individual case review
by FEMA.
e. North Carolina State Building Code
The State Building Code was adopted by the Board of Aldermen in May, 1991. The
Town of North Topsail Beach employs one full-time building inspector and an assistant to
enforce the code.
f. Motor -Driven Vehicles and Horses on Dunes and Beaches Ordinance
This ordinance was adopted on October 3, 1990. The purpose of this ordinance is to
regulate beach access and minimize the possible adverse environmental impact on dunes and
vegetation. Depending upon conditions, four-wheel drive vehicles may be allowed on the
beach strand from New River Inlet to Surf City limits at certain times during the year. Specific
regulations are updated annually.
g. Septic Tank Regulations
Septic tank regulations are administered by the Onslow County Health Department. '
h. North Topsail Beach Beach and Waterfront Access Plan
A CAMA funded beach and waterfront access plan was prepared by the Town of North
Topsail Beach in 1996. The plan was prepared to assist the town in its future efforts to
improve beach access and to determine the recreational needs and desires of the town
residents. Proposed improvements were specified which will repair/replace the access sites
destroyed or damaged by Hurricane Fran and increase the town's access resources.
L
P
1-29

U
i. North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), 1995
' The North Carolina Department of Transportation maintains a five year improvement
program for Onslow County. That program specifies numerous transportation improvements
which will improve access to North Topsail Beach. These improvements are discussed in
' detail in Section 11, page 8 of this plan.
6. Effectiveness of the 1991 Land Use Plan and Policies
' North Topsail Beach has implemented the policies contained in its 1991 CAMA land use plan.
The Planning Board and Board of Aldermen have relied on the plan to guide policy, zoning,
' subdivision, and other regulatory decisions. The policy statements are linked to the 15A
NCAC 7H use standards. The 1991 land use plan policy statements are summarized on page
1-3 to 1-9.
' The town emphasized implementation of the following from 1991 to 1996:
-- Limitation of the expansion of commercial land uses.
' -- Preservation of North Topsail Beach's residential character and quality.
P q Y
-- Protection/preservation of Areas of Environmental Concern.
-- Protection of the frontal dune system.
-- Improved fire protection and water/sewer services.
' -- Prohibition of commercial or recreational marinas.
-- Limiting the height of structures to 45 feet on lands vacant and unplatted as of
January, 1992, in the ocean hazard and ORW impact areas.
-- Prohibition of industrial development.
' The town has been successful in accomplishing these objectives. In addition, the 1991
plan polices were utilized to review CAMA major permit proposals involving coastal and 404
' wetlands.
7. Basinwide Water Quality Management
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) has initiated a basinwide approach to
state water quality management. The overall goal of basinwide management is to develop
' consistent and effective long range water quality management strategies that protect the
quality and intended uses of North Carolina's surface waters while accommodating population
increases and economic growth.
' The State of North Carolina has been divided into seventeen major river basins. Eight of North
Carolina's major river basins cross the coastal area: Lumber, Cape Fear, White Oak, Neuse,
Tar -Pamlico, Roanoke, Chowan, and Pasquotank. The Division of Water Quality has further
1
' I-30

subdivided these basins into smaller "sub -basins", which are currently used as the foundation
for their basinwide water quality plans. Even smaller watersheds were recently delineated for
the entire state by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. These watersheds are
referred to as "14-digit hydrologic units" (because of the unique 14-digit code assigned to
each watershed) or simply "small watersheds". These small watersheds generally range in
size from 5,000 to 50,000 acres. For each river basin, water quality problems are identified
and appropriate management strategies developed. The plan features basinwide permitting
of pollution discharges, integration of existing point and nonpoint source control programs, and
preparation of a basinwide management plan report.
The purpose of the basinwide management plan is to communicate to policy makers, the
regulated community, and the general public, the state's rationale, approaches, and long-term
strategies for each basin. Preparation of a basinwide management plan is a five year process.
In general, this process involves the following five major phases of development:
-- Collecting pertinent water quality and related information,
-- Analyzing the information and targeting problem areas,
-- Development management strategies,
-- Circulating a draft plan for public review and comment, and
-- Finalizing the plan.
North Topsail Beach is located in the Cape Fear and White Oak major river basins and sub -
basins 03-06-24 and 03-05-02. The Cape Fear and White Oak basinwide management plans
received NCDEM approval in December, 1995, and January, 1997, respectively.
The long-range basinwide management goal is to provide a means of addressing the complex
problem of planning for reasonable economic growth while protecting and/or restoring the
quality and intended uses of surface waters.
In striving towards the long-range goal stated above, the Division of Water Quality's highest
priority near -term goals will be the following:
-- Identify and restore the most seriously impaired waters in the basin;
-- Protect those waters known to be of the highest quality or supporting biological
communities of special importance;
-- Manage problem pollutants, particularly nutrients, biological oxygen demand and
sediment and fecal coliform, in order to correct existing water quality problems and to
ensure protection of those waters currently supporting their uses.
The following excerpts have been taken from the Cape Fear and White Oak Basinwide
Management Plans and are relevant to sub -basin 03-06-24 and 03-05-02:
Cape Fear River Basin - Sub -basin 03-06-24: (Waters located near North Topsail Beach
are delineated with an asterisk.)
Large portions of this area have been classified as Outstanding Resource Waters,
including Turkey Creek, Howard Channel, Long Point Channel, Green Channel, Cedar
Snag Creek, Butler Creek, Nixon Channel and Howe Creek. ORW areas also include
portions of Stump Sound*, Everett Bay, Middle Sound, Masonboro Sound, and the
1-31

C
Intracoastal Waterway*. Two High Quality Waters areas have also been designated
in this sub -basin based on their use as primary nursery areas: King Creek* and Bradley
' Creek above US 17/74/76. Because of the large number of ORW areas in this sub -
basin, water quality can be inferred to be generally Good to Excellent due largely to
good tidal flushing. Most water quality problems in this sub -basin are related to urban
' nonpoint runoff and large marinas. Most water quality problems originate from outside
the sub -basin.
' White Oak River Basin - Sub -basin 03-05-02 (New River):
Significant water quality problems within the New River sub -basin have been observed
' for over a decade. In June, 1990, the Division of Water Quality released a technical
report (NCDWQ, 1990) that concluded that the New River mainstem below
Jacksonville was experiencing severe nutrient enrichment and low dissolved oxygen
levels. The report also concluded that the City of Jacksonville's wastewater discharge
' to Wilson Bay has contributed to the eutrophication of the New River. The City of
Jacksonville has responded and is currently constructing a 6,275 acre land application
system to replace the packed tower trickling filter it currently operates. The city's
discharge is scheduled to be removed from Wilson Bay by January 1, 1998.
The United States Marine Corps (USMC), which operates seven wastewater treatment
plants in the New River area, has also responded to the water quality problems in the
sub -basin. Six of the existing seven facilities will be eliminated through construction
of a regional plant to be built at the current Hadnot Point wastewater treatment plant
location. This upgrade is anticipated to be completed by the end of 1998. The new
facility will be designed to meet advanced tertiary effluent limits and will include
nutrient removal capabilities. Improved water quality within the New River mainstem
is expected after the removal of Jacksonville's discharge along the consolidation and
improved treatment of the USMC discharges. The New River has been assigned a
Medium priority for nonpoint source controls.
In North Topsail Beach, the North Carolina Division of Water Quality has identified 2
watersheds within the Cape Fear Basin and 1 watershed within the White Oak Basin. Each
watershed has been assigned a fourteen -digit code for the purpose of identification. The
following table and Map 2 identify the watersheds located in North Topsail Beach.
Table 13
North Topsail Beach
Watersheds
Approximate % of
N. Topsail Beach in
Watershed Number
Watershed
River Basin
03030001020050
75%
White Oak
03030001040005
10%
Cape Fear
03030001040010
15%
Cape Fear
Source: Division of Coastal Management.
1-32

I
D. LAND AND WATER USE COMPATIBILITY ANALYSIS t
1. Comoatibility Issues '
Identification of land use incompatibilities is an important consideration in planning for future
land uses. In the classic sense, land use compatibility problems generally occur when two or '
more land use types are adjacent to each other and one use is somehow restricted or inhibited
from expansion. Examples could include mobile homes next to stick -built units, or commercial
uses adjoining residential areas. As a result, additional investment may be discouraged by one I
or more of the land uses.
Because of the town's planning efforts and the fact that the vast majority of the development '
that has occurred in town has been residential, land use compatibility problems have been
minimized. However, the town should be aware of both existing and potential land use
compatibility problems. The following summarizes the compatibility issues which exist within '
North Topsail Beach's planning jurisdiction.
-- "404" wetland areas and associated federal regulations present '
obstacles to development. In addition, development may damage some
valuable "404" wetland areas.
-- Protection of Natural Resource Fragile Areas such as Permuda Island and Cedar '
Bush Cut Island.
-- Reestablishment and protection of the frontal dune line. ,
-- Residential units located in areas susceptible to overwash.
-- Development within the CAMA areas of environmental concern as
defined by 15A NCAC 7H must meet or exceed the minimum use
standards. '
-- Protection of single-family residential units from infringement by multi -family
development. '
-- Compatibility of mobile homes with surrounding development and whether or
not owners will decide to replace destroyed mobile homes with new mobile '
homes.
I
7
1-33 1

LEGEND
SUPPORT -THREATENED WATER
PARTIALLY SUPPORTING WATER •.••, . • • ,. ••
CAMA ACCESS SITES
MAP 2A WATERSHED BOUNDARY LINE
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN r '
WATER CONDITIONS MAP ,
_�� ACOASTAL WATERWAY ovisQ
- ------- 03030001040005
---- - - - -. - - �>� EVERETT 1
-' -- _' - - - - - BAY A
S"'W SOUNDtammcm
Awmraum TTrAssa.„q ` 7ao�r m naff A
03030001020050, ~� '
h 1 1 %• , STONES BAY, NEW RIVER•.1
03030001040010 CS I •
TOPSAIL SOUND 1 �mAw..T� ..... -. - -
SrUWSOUND V _ 1 -� ! •_�;. z ,
1 % , ONES1`sec's W` — 1 %••%' -: :`.:•% �Q
U �, / YOdELLE /110 016L0. QL MAP" 3[C90M . C.co
AIR C= K i lll..Ci • • �/ ..: ,
// Io. aW. slAolcr a TART I - wacw n/ EST. RAMA
a Iasoryo Cq ! . • •
N ua.f0. IWKOf.W Lee r0. a.ln... ,� • �•
uo1�cL ar. ( Assoc tt K 1 • , _
O Knc..alra � � , ,•
r.�.+
1
r. PAGE/
a Mown rwnlMGM
I
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The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program,
through funds provided by. the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
t is administered by the Office of Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
1-34
NOTE: NUMBERS REPRESENT THE 14-DIGIT HYDROLOGIC
CODES AS PRESCRIBED BY THE DIVISION OF
COASTAL MANAGEMENT. EACH WATERSHED'S ,
PRIMARY WATERBODY HAS ALSO BEEN INDICATED
UNDER EACH 14-DIGIT CODE.

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.
�r SUPPORT -THREATENED WATER
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' --- _ MAP2B
SE '&Alt WUAS 1 Q)ASTAL l;qpq y,�t�
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
WATER CONDITIONS MAP
1
1-35

' 2. Unplanned Development
' The 1991 North Topsail Beach land use plan update included a summary of major problems
resulting from unplanned or poorly planned development. These problems remain relevant to
North Topsail Beach and are as follows:
' a. Dwellings and Structures within the Ocean Erodible Hazard Area
' The ocean erodible hazard area is defined as the area in which there exists a
substantial possibility of excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation. The seaward
boundary of this area is the mean low waterline. This area is delineated by a formula which
' includes annual erosion rates, 100-year flood rates, and V-zone boundaries. A CAMA permit
is required for development activity within this area.
' CAMA regulations restrict development immediately adjacent to the ocean shoreline.
The area of restriction is landward from the first line of stable vegetation to the erosion or
"setback" line. For structures less than 5,000 square feet, the minimum setback distance is
' 60 feet or 30 times the annual erosion rate, whichever is greater. For structures greater than
5,000 square feet, the minimum setback distance is 160 feet or 60 times the annual erosion
rate, whichever is greater. Allowed uses within this setback area are defined in
' NCAC 7H.0309. The annual erosion rate varies along the coastline of North Topsail Beach,
so the setback also varies. In some areas of North Topsail Beach, the setback may be as
much as 150 feet from the first line of stable vegetation. In other areas, it maybe as little
' as 60 feet.
Violent storms, such as hurricanes and nor'easters tend to ignore imaginary lines in the
sand. Much of the development on North Topsail Beach was built at the required CAMA
' setback, but the beach has eroded more rapidly than calculated. While all beachfront homes
are vulnerable to storm damage, those in rapidly eroding areas are at much greater risk. This
has been the case on Topsail Island and in North Topsail Beach.
' Development which remains at risk is that which has survived the 1996 hurricane
season and now stands within the CAMA setback. Dwellings so situated are at extreme risk
' from storm events. Where homes in severe erosion areas were destroyed, redevelopment may
be limited by the setback requirements.
' b. Development of Structures in Areas Ineligible for Federal Flood Insurance
Approximately half of North Topsail Beach is designated within a Coastal Barrier
' Resources System Area (COBRA) and ineligible for national flood insurance. Development
within areas ineligible for federal flood insurance requires a property owner or homeowner to
obtain flood insurance from private sources. Private flood insurance is considerably more
' expensive and at times very difficult to obtain. Ineligibility for federal flood insurance is
identified as a serious constraint on development. Additionally, federal funds for projects such
as beach renourishment cannot be used in such areas.
1-36
1

C. Inadequate Transportation Access to Serve Residential Areas
On the north end, at a certain point, the public roadway ends and poorly maintained
private streets provide the only means of ingress and egress for substantial number of
residential units. On the south end, many of the "neighborhood" streets in the Ocean City and
family campground areas are unpaved.
d. Overwash and Erosion of SR 1568
This problem was included in the 1991 land use plan update prior to the relocation of
SR 1568. Although this relocation has improved overwash problems at the northern end of
SR 1568, it did not alleviate problems in other sections of this road. In particular, the portion
of SR 1568 near Galleon Bay has encountered overwash on a number of occasions. During
Hurricane Fran, a new inlet was cut in this area connecting the Old Sound Channel to the
Atlantic Ocean. Due to the fact that a bridge already existed in the area where the new inlet
was cut, access to the northern portion of town was not restricted following the storm.
e. Water System was not Designed for "Urban -Type" Development
The Onslow County water system was designed as a rural "potable" water system and
was not intended to be utilized in urbanized areas. Therefore, the pressure and volume for fire
fighting and other emergency uses is not maintained. Onslow County has made substantial
improvements to its water system, including the construction of two new water treatment
plants, and it is adequate for low -medium density residential use. However, if the
construction of multi -family condominiums were to continue at North Topsail Beach, water
supply and pressure could become a more critical issue.
E. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: PUBLIC FACILITIES
1. Water Suooly
The entire Town of North Topsail Beach is supplied water by the Onslow County water
system. In addition to North Topsail Beach, the water system serves over 90% of the
county's unincorporated areas. According to the county's Water and Sewer Department
records in January, 1997, there were 28,132 customers served by the water system.
Approximately 73% of these customers were residential, 18% multi-user (commercial
majority), 5% municipal, and 4% private utilities. It is estimated that approximately 2,300
customers, or 8% of the system's total customers served, are in North Topsail Beach. The
system contains thirteen Black Creek Aquifer wells with a total capacity of 7,080 gallons per
minute (gpm). The following provides the system capacity by well. It should be noted that
Well #3 is not included in this table because it is no longer in operation.
Well #1
600 gallons per minute
Well #2
600 gallons per minute
Well #4
600 gallons per minute
Well #5
640 gallons per minute
Well #6
600 gallons per minute
Well #7
650 gallons per minute
1-37

U
7
11
Well #8
650 gallons per minute
Well #9
525 gallons per minute
Well #10
575 gallons per minute
Well #11
560 gallons per minute
Well #12
530 gallons per minute
Well #13 400 gallons per minute
Well #14 150 gallons per minute
TOTAL 7,080 gallons per minute
Source: Onslow County Office of the Director of Utilities.
Water storage is provided by seven elevated storage tanks and two ground storage tanks.
These tanks have a combined storage capacity of 9.15 million gallons. The following provides
a summary of storage capacity by tank:
Uniflyte Tank
250,000 gallons
Hubert Tank
300,000 gallons
Pumpkin Center Tank
750,000 gallons
Gum Branch Tank
300,000 gallons
Catherine Lake Tank
300,000 gallons
Southwest Tank
500,000 gallons
Sneads Ferry Tank*
750,000 gallons
Dixon WTP Storage**
3,000,000 gallons
Hubert WTP Storage**
3,000,000 gallons
TOTAL
9,150,000 gallons
*This elevated storage tank serves the portion of Onslow County that includes North Topsail Beach.
* *These ground storage tanks are located at each of the county's water treatment plants. These tanks
have been in operation since April, 1996.
Source: Onslow County Office of the Director of Utilities.
Onslow County operates two separate water treatment plants. These plants have been
operating since April, 1996, and are each rated at 2 million gallons of treated water per day.
In addition, these plants each have the capability to expand to 6 million gallons of treated
water per day. Water system improvements associated with the construction of these plants
have increased the total system pumping capacity to 11.6 million gallons per day (MGD) or
8,023 gallons per minute (GPM). During the calendar year of 1996, the Onslow County Water
Department's pumping average was 5.6 MGD.
The following provides a description of the portion of the Onslow County water system most
' relevant to North Topsail Beach. Water flow to North Topsail Beach is initiated at the Sneads
Ferry elevated storage tank located near the intersection of Highway 210 and Highway 172.
' A 12-inch water main carries the water from the tank to the intersection of Highway 210 and
SR 1568. At this point, the water line is reduced to a 10-inch line and continues to the
intersection of Highway 210 and SR 1568, which is inside the town limits of North Topsail
Beach. From the intersection of Highway 210 and SR 1568, the water line branches and
1-38
1

heads north and south. Northward, along SR 1568, a 12-inch water line extends
approximately three miles where it reduces to six inches for a one mile length and then
increases to eight inches to a point near Marine Drive. It then reduces to a 6-inch line to serve
the Topsail Reef Condominiums and private residences. In 1996, an additional water line was
constructed interconnecting the existing water line at the northern end of the island to the
mainland.
Southward from the intersection of Highway 210 and SR 1568, a 10-inch water line extends
approximately 6 %z miles along Highway 210 to the Pender County line where it ends. The
water line along Shore Drive is composed of a 4-inch line north of 13th Avenue, while the
remaining line south of 13th Avenue is composed of a 6-inch water line.
During Hurricane Fran, a new inlet was formed near Galleon Bay connecting the Old Sound
Channel and the Atlantic Ocean. As a result, a portion of the water line serving the northern
end of North Topsail Beach was destroyed. It should be noted that due to the layout of the
water lines in this area, water service is still available and functional in all areas of town.
However, this break has affected the interconnectivity of the water system and overall
performance. Onslow County is currently waiting for NCDOT approval before reconstruction
of the broken portion of the water line is initiated. This is due to the fact that Onslow County
is requesting that the new water line be attached to the existing bridge.
2. Sewer System
Topsail Water and Sewer, Inc., a private company, provides sewer service to the Town of
North Topsail Beach. The sewer system is a land application system consisting of a 12" line
north of the Highway 210 bridge and a 12" line south of the bridge to 13th Avenue. These
lines are connected to a force main line along the Highway 210 high rise bridge, which
transfers the sewage to a 300-acre land application site near Four Corners. The land
application system consists of a pre-treatment facility, three lagoons, and a 185-acre spray -
effluent field. The spray irrigation treatment and disposal facility has a capacity of 877,000
gpd. However, at the present time, influent flow is limited to 629,000 gpd by the North
Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Influent flow will be
limited to 629,000 gpd until it has been satisfactorily demonstrated that the site is capable
of functioning at a higher loading rate and written approval is obtained from the DEHNR -
Wilmington Regional Office. This written approval must be obtained prior to an increase in
the influent flow above 629,000 gpd to the design capacity of 877,000 gpd.
Although the majority of North Topsail Beach's soils have severe limitations for septic tank
use, the Onslow County Health Department may issue a permit for septic tank use if all
applicable county, state, and federal regulations are met. Decisions on septic tank use are
based on soil testing and other site requirements such as distance from wells, with lot sizes
being determined by subdivision and zoning requirements. According to the Onslow County
Health Department, each lot in North Topsail Beach is different and "perc" test results vary
from site to site. However, lots closer to the marsh and those with lower elevations are more
likely to fail septic tank requirements. Moreover, high density developments can not be
supported with septic tanks, because sites which can pass the "perc" test are too scattered
and not contiguous.
1-39

Currently, the private sewer system is treating an average of 250,000 gallons per day serving
approximately 1,700 customers, of which 1,400 are located in North Topsail Beach: The NC
Division of Water Quality uses the guideline that the average per capita sewer use is 100
gallons of effluent per person per day. Based on these figures, the maximum population which
can be served by a system with a permitted capacity of 629,000 gpd is 6,290 persons. The
' North Topsail Water and Sewer System has sufficient capacity to serve the island's existing
year round population of approximately 1,070. However, due to the influent flow constraints
placed on the system by DEHNR, Topsail Water and Sewer has begun to ration the granting
' of new taps. Although it is unclear at this time exactly how many of the remaining taps are
allocated for North Topsail Beach, the town's newest approved subdivision containing 61 lots
was granted only 27 taps.
' As previously mentioned, during Hurricane Fran, a new inlet was formed near Galleon Bay.
As a result, a portion of the sewer system serving the town sustained minor damage.
However, the damage had no affect on customer service and repairs were made within two
' weeks.
' 3. Solid Waste
Currently, residential refuse collection service is provided to North Topsail Beach residents and
property owners by request only. The town has contracted this service through Waste
Industries, which includes weekly bulk pick-ups for special disposal items such as white
goods, discarded furniture, etc.
' As of July 1, 1997, residential refuse collection will be paid by property tax revenues, so it
will be provided to all residents and property owners. Residents do not have to participate and
may contract with a private hauler or dispose of their refuse themselves. However, their
property taxes will still be paying for the town's refuse disposal program.
In conjunction with the residential collection contract, a private hauler provides and collects
' recyclable material such as plastics, glass, cardboard, and newspaper from a co -mingled
dumpster, located at the Public Works Department. This drop-off site is available to residents
and commercial businesses within the town.
The town's public works department completes a roadside collection of yard waste, as
needed. The yard waste is mulched and made available to residents and property owners for
' their private use.
It is not feasible for the Town of North Topsail Beach to develop its own solid waste disposal
' program. The town currently participates and intends to continue to participate in Onslow
County's Solid Waste Management Plan for disposal needs.
' Onslow County operates six fully -staffed refuse drop-off sites. The closest facility to North
Topsail Beach is approximately 7 miles away in Folkstone. Solid waste deposited at each of
the drop-off sites is transported to the county operated Pony Farm Road landfill. The permit
' for the existing facility will expire in December, 1997. At that time, the facility is expected
to close. Onslow County has contracted an engineering firm to design a new technologically
advanced liner/leach landfill. The 170-acre site intended for the new landfill is located just
' north of the existing Pony Farm Road Landfill. The required permits necessary for construction
-40

are issued by the state in two phases. Onslow County has already acquired the Phase I site
certification permits. The Phase II design permit is expected to be obtained by the end of
August, 1997, after the county's engineering firm has completed the design specifications.
If the county is able to proceed as planned, landfill construction may begin in October, 1997.
4. Educational Facilities
The North Topsail Beach area is served by the Onslow County School District. North Topsail
Beach school -age children attend Dixon Elementary, Dixon Middle, and Dixon High Schools.
Table 14 shows the total enrollment of these schools for the school years 1990-1991 and
1996-1997.
Table 14
Onslow County Schools Serving North Topsail Beach
Comparison for 1990-1991 and 1996-1997
School Grade Second Month Third Month +/- since
1990-1991 1996-1997 1990-1991
Dixon Elementary K-3 523 763 +240
Dixon Middle 4-8 689 513 -176
Dixon High 9-12 418 527 + 109
Total -- 1,630 1,803 +173
Source: 1991 North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan and Onslow County Schools.
During the six -year period between school years 1990-1991 and 1996-1997, total enrollment
at the Dixon area schools increased by 173 individuals or 10.6%. According to the Onslow
County Board of Education, there are less than 25 school -aged children from North Topsail
Beach attending Onslow County Schools.
5. Transportation
Topsail Island including Topsail Beach, Surf City, and North Topsail Beach is served by two
bridges. Highway 210 from the high-rise bridge south to the Pender County line is the only
primary roadway within North Topsail Beach. This section of highway is seven miles long and
has a typical 20' to 24' section with a 60' to 100' wide right-of-way. State Road 1568 from
the high-rise bridge north has a typical section of 18' and a 60' right-of-way. In 1995, the
North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) collected average daily traffic (ADT)
data in two locations within North Topsail Beach. These sites are located just north of the
high-rise bridge on SR 1568 and just south of the high-rise bridge on Highway 210, and had
ADT counts of 3,400 and 4,100, respectively.
The Highway 210 bridge over the Intracoastal Waterway has a design capacity of 12,000
vehicles per day, in each direction, based on information from the Department of
Transportation Bridge Replacement Engineer. This bridge was constructed in 1968 and is in
good condition. The draw bridge at Surf City is very narrow and can only carry two-way
traffic if not being crossed by a truck, at which time it is only one way. Based on information
also obtained from the Department of Transportation, the capacity of the Surf City bridge
could be determined only by a detailed analysis of how frequently the bridge opens per day
and how that affects traffic.
fl
U
1-41

Table 15 provides a summary of the town's roads that are eligible for Powell Bill funds. This
table also indicates which of the town's roads are paved and unpaved.
Table 15
Town of North Topsail Beach
Town Roads Eligible for Powell Bill Funds
Road Name Miles Road Name Miles
Chestnut Street
0.05
16th Avenue (Sound)
0.05
Gray Street
0.05
17th Avenue (Sound)
0.08
Green Street
0.05
18th Avenue (Ocean)
0.05
(Sound)
0.11
Carver Street
0.06
22nd Avenue (Sound)
0.02
Lincoln Street [1
]
0.07
23rd Avenue (Sound)**
0.06
Ocean Drive
0.63
24th Avenue (Sound)**
0.07
Reeves Street
(Ocean)
0.05
Port Drive
0.14
(Sound)
0.08
Makepeace Street
0.10
Oyster Lane
0.11
Wicker Street
(Ocean)
0.08
Coastal Drive
0.13
(Sound)
0.05
Bird Lane
0.06
Seagull Drive
0.22
Utopia Street
0.06
Marine Drive**
0.03
Sea Shore Drive*
0.33
Sand Piper Drive
0.11
Haven Drive**
0.04
Bay View Drive
0.14
Sandlin Lane**
0.10
Bay Circle
0.04
Green Street
(Sound)
0.05
Trade Winds Drive
0.16
Gray Street
(Sound)**
0.06
Marina Way
0.11
2nd Avenue
(Ocean) * *
0.05
Bay Court" *
0.05
(Sound)**-
0.01
3rd Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Goldsboro Lane
0.12
4th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
North Myrtle Drive
0.03
5th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
South Myrtle Drive
0.01
(Sound)
0.04
6th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
River Road [21
0.16
(Sound)
0.04
7th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
River Drive 121
0.14
(Sound)
0.04
8th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Grant Drive**
0.05
(Sound)
0.05
9th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Oceanview Lane
0.25
(Sound)
0.03
10th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Soundview Lane
0.15
(Sound)
0.05
11th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Sea Dunes Court
0.02
(Sound)
0.05
12th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Myrtle Drive
0.04
(Sound)
0.05
13th Avenue
(Ocean)
0.05
Ocean Club Court
0.03
(Sound)
0.02
1-42

Table 15 (continued)
Road Name Miles Road Name Miles
14th Avenue (Ocean) 0.06 Mason Court 0.03
(Sound) 0.03
15th Avenue (Ocean) 0.06
(Sound) 0.06 Total 5.81
[1] Street has closed.
[2) River Road and River Drive are actually the same street.
* Partially Unpaved
* * Completely Unpaved
Source: Town of North Topsail Beach.
The most serious transportation issue facing the Town of North Topsail Beach continues to
be from overwash that periodically occurs on SR 1568 near Galleon Bay. During Hurricane
Fran, a new inlet was formed in this area connecting the Old Sound Channel and the Atlantic
Ocean. This section of SR 1568 will require above average maintenance to remain functional
due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean.
Hurricane Fran also destroyed Jenkins Way and approximately 80% of Topsail Road. The
NCDOT decided to abandon Jenkins Way, and Topsail Road has been repaired to the extent
that it is functional. At the present time, it is not known when the NCDOT will complete
repairs to Topsail Road. An additional problem, of a less serious nature, stems from the fact
that a number of the roads in North Topsail Beach remain unpaved. Access can be limited in
these areas due to the poor condition of roads. However, it should be noted that many of
these roads are private and not publicly maintained.
Transportation improvements expected to take place during the planning period will be
discussed in the Projected Public Facilities Needs/Availability section of this plan.
6. Police Protection
The Town of North Topsail Beach employs one police chief, eight full-time and five reserve
officers. Mutual Aid Agreements have been enacted with Holly Ridge, Onslow County,
Topsail Beach, and Surf City whereby each jurisdiction's police staff will support the other in
times of need. Onslow County operates a 911 system which handles all emergency calls for
police, fire, and rescue services.
7. Fire Protection
The North Topsail Beach Fire Department is staffed by a Fire Chief, Assistant Fire Chief, and
26 volunteers. Since the land use plan was last updated in 1991, the town has constructed
a new fire station. This station, officially called Station 1, is located north of the high rise
bridge near the end of SR 1568. This facility houses the offices of the Fire Chief and
Assistant Fire Chief. Two fire trucks are maintained at this facility, a pumper and a tanker.
In addition, this station also houses a rescue squad with a Quick Response pickup truck and
a 23 foot boat.
1-43

Station 2, located on the corner of NC 210 and Gray Street, has a 1,000 gallon pumper/tanker
with a 24 foot ladder, a 1959 pumper truck with 500 gallon capacity, crew cab pickup truck,
quick response truck, and a small inflatable boat.
In 1991, the fire insurance ratings for North Topsail Beach were 9S for the southern portion
' of town and a 10 rating for the northern area. The 10 rating is the highest insurance rating
available and warrants the highest premiums. Since the addition of Station 1, these insurance
ratings have dropped to a town wide Class 6.
' Some high rise and multi -family developments within North Topsail,Beach have stand pipes
with hose stations and/or sprinkler systems as shown on Table 16.
' According to the North Topsail Beach Fire Chief, at the present time the Fire Department staff
and facilities are adequate to meet the town's needs.
Table 16
North Topsail Beach, 1991
Fire Protection Improvements for Multi -Family and High Rise Developments
'
Development
Sprinkler System
Standpipes with hose stations
Topsail Dunes
One building only
Two buildings
'
Ship Watch
Entire development
N/A
St. Moritz
Entire development
N/A
'
Villa Capriani
St. Regis
Entire development
7th floor restaurant only
N/A
Three buildings
Topsail Reef
N/A
Eight buildings
'
Source: North Topsail Beach
Volunteer Fire Department.
' 8. Rescue Squad
The Town of North Topsail Beach has a volunteer rescue squad, provided by Onslow County,
' located at fire station 1. Approximately 30%, or 8 persons, who serve as fire department
volunteers also serve the rescue squad. Onslow County also maintains five paramedic rescue
stations throughout the county. The station closest to North Topsail Beach is in Sneads Ferry.
' Both the volunteer and paramedic squads respond to 911 rescue calls on the island. At the
scene, a decision is made about which squad will transport the victim to the hospital if
necessary. The County Rescue Squad, through North Topsail Beach Volunteers, also
' maintains a Quick Response pickup truck, inflatable boat, and a twenty-three foot C-Hawk
boat.
9. Recreation
' The Town of North Topsail Beach does not operate any recreational facilities. Onslow County
maintains four regional beach access sites and the North Carolina Wildlife Commission
' operates one regional boat access area near the high rise bridge. The following provides a
description of the beach access sites:
1-44

No. 1 - Located on SR 1568, just past the New River Fishing Pier at North Topsail
Beach. Features a ramp and walkway to the ocean (accessible to the handicapped),
restrooms, showers, and a gravel parking lot for 66 vehicles on approximately 1 acre.
No. 2 - Located on NC 210 four miles southeast of the North Topsail Beach high-rise
bridge. Features an elevated wooden pavilion, an observation deck on the oceanfront,
restrooms, showers, and gravel parking lots for 290 vehicles on approximately four (4)
acres. Also includes a Nature Trail, which features a platform overlooking the sound,
picnic tables, and benches in a wetlands environment.
No. 3 - Located past the St. Regis Hotel at the mouth of the New River at North
Topsail Beach. This area has traditionally been a favorite place for surf fishing. The
park has 700 sq. ft. frontage facing New River Inlet.
No. 4 - This facility opened in 1992 and is located on SR 1568 approximately one mile
from NC 210. It is the county's newest beach access site and features an elevated
wooden observation deck on the ocean, a ramp to the beach for the handicapped,
restrooms, showers, concession area and parking for 173 vehicles.
However, due to Hurricanes Bertha and Fran, all of the above listed facilities have been
destroyed. Map 2, Water Conditions, shows the location of CAMA regional beach access
sites.
The town's Beach and Waterfront Access Plan, completed December 16, 1996, includes
several recommendations for beach and waterfront access improvements. This plan was
financed in part through a grant provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program.
The following issues were addressed in the plan: limited soundside access, state development
of Permuda Island, maintenance of existing access structures, developer access requirements,
parking improvements, and the location of additional oceanfront access areas.
During the final preparation of the Beach and Waterfront Access Plan, the Town of North
Topsail Beach sustained direct hits from both Hurricanes Bertha and Fran. As a result, the
town has outlined a first year work program to be completed prior to implementing any
improvements/recommendations included in the Access Study. The work program for the first
year will consist of storm related recovery activities as follows:
All previously existing water access structures and areas will be visually
surveyed to determine their post storm condition. A list of sustained damage
will be compiled and prioritized to facilitate future repairs.
2. Repairs and reconstruction of existing access structures will only take place
after damaged dunes along the oceanfront have been restored. Temporary
fencing and barriers will be placed along the oceanfront areas to help direct
pedestrian traffic and minimize damage to the dune areas as they rebuild.
3. A Map or List of unbuildable lots resulting from storm erosion will be completed.
This effort will not be feasible until the first line of stable vegetation is
reestablished or CAMA officials are able to determine if a lot is buildable by
other means.
1-45

4. Town officials and residents will contact the North Carolina Land Trust to
secure information relating to their programs for environmentally sensitive land
preservation.
5. Town officials will contact Federal Emergency Management Agency
representatives and inquire about the availability of Federal Funds for the
purchase of unbuildable lots to provide land area for future access and
recreational improvements.
' 6. Town officials will contact The Center of Urban and Regional Studies located
at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill. This state supported agency
is actively involved in land planning activities in the coastal areas of North
Carolina and will be helpful to the town in making post storm land planning
decisions.
' 7. Town officials will work closely with the Onslow County officials in an effort
to replace the three damaged Regional Access Areas.
10. Library
Onslow County manages the library system. The closest library to the island is in Sneads
' Ferry. Some residents may also use the library in Jacksonville, and the Pender County Library
in Hampstead.
' 11. Medical Services
There are no physicians or dentists located in North Topsail Beach. The closest primary care
physicians are located in Surf City and the Sneads Ferry Clinic. There is also a dentist located
in Sneads Ferry. Many beach residents travel to Jacksonville, Hampstead, or Wilmington for
medical care. The Onslow Memorial Hospital and Camp Lejeune Base Hospital are located in
Jacksonville.
12. Electrical Distribution
' The Town of North Topsail Beach is provided electrical service by the Jones-Onslow Electric
Corporation. The Electric Corporation estimates that following Hurricane Fran it had
approximately 2,070 customers in North Topsail Beach, compared to 2,300 prior to the storm.
' All damage that occurred to the electrical system as a result of Fran has been repaired.
n
1-46

F. DEVELOPMENT CONSTRAINTS: LAND SUITABILITY
1. T000araohv/Geoloay
The Talbot and Wicomico Surfaces of Pleistocene age cover nearly all of Onslow County. The
Wicomico Surface is 42 to 100 feet in elevation, and it covers the northeastern and
northwestern parts of the county. The Talbot Surface is 24 to 42 feet in elevation. It covers
about two-thirds of the county, in the central, southeastern, and southwestern parts. The
Pamlico Surface is at sea level to 24 feet in elevation, and it covers a narrow strip near the
coast including North Topsail Beach. The northern tip of the county is covered by the
Sunderland Surface, which is 100 feet or more in elevation.
The unconsolidated surface sediment is about 10 feet thick in the northern part of the county
and approximately 30 feet thick in North Topsail Beach. The Yorktown Formation of Miocene
age underlies the surficial sediment unless it has been removed by erosion. This formation is
about 60 feet thick near North Topsail Beach. The Castle Hayne Limestone Foundation of
Eocene age underlies the Yorktown Formation. Where the Yorktown Formation has been
removed by erosion, the surficial sediment overlies the Castle Hayne Formation. The Castle
Hayne Formation is wedge shaped and is thicker near the coast. The Pee Dee Formation of
Cretaceous age underlies the Castle Hayne Formation.
The main water systems draining the county are the White Oak River, the New River,
Southwest Creek, Back Creek, Sandy Run Swamp, Nine Mile Swamp, and Juniper Swamp.
The flow of water is sluggish in these systems. The White Oak and New Rivers and the short
creeks draining into the Intracoastal Waterway have wide estuarial floodplains. Because of
high ocean tides, these floodplains are flooded with brackish water 1 to 10 miles inland.
2. Ground Water
Ground water sources supply all of the water for domestic uses in Onslow County. The
Surficial Sands aquifer is 10 to 30 feet deep. It yields large amounts of water because the
water table is high in most of the county. The Tertiary Limestone Unit, made up mostly of
the Castle Hayne Formation, lies between the Surficial Sands and the Pee Dee Formation.
This unit is thinner toward the northern part of the county, but it is an important aquifer
throughout the county. The Surficial Sands and Tertiary Limestone aquifer furnish most of
the water for the county, but the Pee Dee Formation supplies a few wells in the northwestern
part. It is the deepest and oldest of the formations, and it is a major source of ground water.
The North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (NCDENR), Division of
Water Resources, requires all local governments that supply or plan to supply water to prepare
a local water supply plan. In these plans, water supply service areas must be identified and
mapped. Development and other activities that occur in these areas have a direct impact on
drinking water quality. The Town of North Topsail Beach was identified in the water supply
plans for Holly Ridge and Onslow County Water and Sewer as being located within their water
supply service areas. The portions of North Topsail Beach (and only areas within North
Topsail Beach) located in these areas has been provided on Map 3.
1-47

aSrEaysOUND
I
MAP 3A
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
WATER SUPPLY SERVICE AREAS
s
1-48
bum�c ecu�
The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided by the North B
Carolina Coastal Management Program, LEGEND
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
is administered by the Office of Ocean and MUM WATER SUPPLY SERVICE AREAS
Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
-F
MAP 3B
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
WATER SUPPLY SERVICE AREAS
The preparation of this map was financed in I
part through a grant provided by the Northam /
Carolina Coastal Management Program, ]WAN POW / F
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone / Management Act of 1972, as amended, which AV// I
is administered by the Office of Ocean and
r d /
t-1---Iir- Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. so%POW 45
yA
J>oLA. LEGEND
I
A p ' WATER SUPPLY SERVICE AREAS
sruwsoum
- _ ..n,rL LUI
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B1,41
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wAu> ♦ I
ouro Ku¢ ♦ r • ao.a .arr•.s I I � I uEl. rnq � of or a�� /
— _ .� LUKs • Da A_ ma -AA,Y 1 'AUAq 0 45 I •qE7 P" - o nDw CO.PUBLW I '
STA DUKi ' ' • • I I y /
:, A,ACE cvn... >.uE , rAp. I L i_ 1
— �. •aEA �•OBBs ,qA,.p OuSWN oRA„ I , (ABAgDb,EO) � a� A�CQss�
_ TO.IiY L/J//TS �I i ur , �. , �•n , Gw0. 01r.4Ar �ntBrt ♦ ueAeo,s :x,Fd eAr I >a+ro, ar ' rn�sr� :•n�
DL1E3 CCW,-OROCEAn ,•OCt *CAL ES -ATE I .OM,ER M1.ACE Cnrwr %DPSAI DlwEs swrArd MSTA.ENIANr
�, PtACE .t„au O.di Et AL r r' O SORT nCEAS (3) I-
• At. >AOE .. _ _ _ _--- _ — Cr. OKNi ET At MAST'ALnQ�� ., I 9[,,p. �A� rS y„AS �� DONAID �S K[r w.r 4,MC Aa■ ME1• I� ,
ws.a .aJws ,oazau c >AOCCIr J — _ _ _ TOAN LL.V/TS' - I LL i sus auo,zrn <c) I eua ewe
eEu — Access
sum.. rD>sA,i mASrA1 auw0143xnWX mFH I - uso,E7R -
sec,a• Toxw !/,Y/TS
1-49

' 3. Flood Hazard Areas
' Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM's) were prepared for North Topsail Beach in June, 1992,
by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The flood plains in North Topsail
Beach are generally grouped into the following classes:
V-zone: The V-zone is the most hazardous zone. It is defined as those areas which
would be flooded by a 100-year storm and which would be subject to the battering and
' erosive actions of waves. In North Topsail Beach, all oceanfront properties and
property bordering the New River are at least partially classified as V-zone properties.
' A -zone: The A -zone encompasses those areas which would be flooded by a 100-year
storm but not subject to wave action. All sound -side properties up to the V-zone
delineation are classified in the A -zone.
' B-zone: The B-zone encompasses those areas which would be flooded by a 500-year
storm. Only two small pockets of land within North Topsail Beach are classified as B-
' zone properties - a sand dune located on Permuda Island and an elevated rise on Cedar
Bush Cut Island at the northern end of North Topsail Beach where the Intracoastal
Waterway joins the New River. Neither of these sites are suitable for building because
' of their location in conservation zones. Consequently, all developable land within North
Topsail Beach is located within the 100-year floodplain.
Map 4 provides the locations of the flood zone boundaries in North Topsail Beach. It should
' be noted that this map indicates the flood zone boundaries as of June, 1992. Primarily as a
result of Hurricane Fran, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has updated the
FIRM's for North Topsail Beach. However, these maps are in the appeals stage and have not
' received final FEMA approval/adoption. Initial review of the preliminary FIRM's that have been
provided to the town indicate that all of North Topsail Beach is now located in the V-zone.
' While all of North Topsail Beach lies within the 100-year floodplain, the greatest threat is
flooding resulting from storm surge and local ponding of water. The majority of the town's
land area lies at ten feet above mean sea level or less and is potentially subject to flooding.
(Note: Continued on page 1-53)
1
1-50

_ LEGEND
MAP 4A ZONE A: AREAS OF 100-YEAR FLOOD; BASE FLOOD
ELEVATIONS AND FLOOD HAZARD FACTORS NOT
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND US/LAN DETERMINED. .
ZONE B: AREAS BETWEEN LIMITS OF THE 10-YEAR FLOOD
FLOOD HAZARD MAP AND 500-YEAR FLOOD; OR CERTAIN AREAS
SUBJECT TO 100-YEAR FLOODING WITH AVERAGE
DEPTHS LESS THAN ONE (1) FOOT.
ZONE V: AREAS OF 100•YEAR COASTAL FLOOD WITH
VELOCITY (WAVE ACTION); BASE FLOOD
ELEVATIONS AND FLOOD HAZARD FACTORS
DETERMINED.
NOTE: BECAUSE OF SIZE AND SCALE, THIS MAP CANNOT BE
USED FOR PRECISE FLOOD ZONE LOCATIONS.
frO lr N Ltvirs -
f N7RACOASr1t MATMwAy OfM a
ustAr
am
� 1 _ �'� S`I'[J111p SOilj�p .
�rxTzo�
oI A� WAft"
p1 r. ROCER ►A¢ ZONELKWM 'VW HEWY RUM
M—
,A.
.cmEuc rl" r o— m
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x
TOPUK
. L =as an ME SrAT OM
CAUPCRCUNO B - -
m
�,Ipb•Agl TEE M1Ki Or S1U.► SOUMO OC1M OT'T •EI�M /piTOrlq ONSI�. Co.
9C6ICNBOIMbT KAo1 O�ANQ7TPI!]l roue OrJcli
(S[ct. 71
ACCLSt N0.2
TorivLMITS_
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.
1-51
It should be noted that this map indicates the flood
zone boundaries as of June, 1992. Primarily as a
result of Hurricane Fran, the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) has updated the
FIRM's for North Topsail Beach. However, these
maps are in the appeals stage and have not
received final FEMA approval/adoption. Initial
review of the preliminary FIRM's that have been
provided to the town indicate that all of North
W-MV IA'" Topsail Beach Is now located in the V-zone.
SEE PAGE 148
—maur
s++o , ,��.-- _ +� �: _
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ZONE 8 M=uT _
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•
A.

Timm-1-1
•
•
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
FLOOD HAZARD MAP
/ ZONE B t
/ mmrMAM I
Ca=
SWAN tour
1
I
.(arawr / ,SS / la
tt�a/ /. ZONE'A
1
/ / 1
/
ZONE V I
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4
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ZONE q
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„. • A. eQ,O %RA,,�'( [S ►1k N I I I 1 0 ' H V
SALTri
Gtl45 • M! QUf♦ Ml1.Ci 1 %RAKE Q�QNO _ '� S t OD¢ , •� 6"
B .iA a►ES QURS MA1 I I I 1(► 1111Qr , _ ana J♦ /
a=.srr sass TO�iY llil/TS' "A"`c '"' , "°ees
ILs'"c wsn. aa... , . ■ �a ' �� ec.ai°',cMcaa io I � 7 /
ur "` , .. u.a \ r stir 2W -=3 N ' 1 ZON
12
fit[ r ocu. aocE a.A ct:.rE ' eoa -- octAWAV w„ar K.n, 1 10►SK .� ` /
8.1 �� _ .. A)i [r K kA'� ca ►—v :YtLd oA• Mllrbl Or 1 S CdNi `•r wwrw.
=C r. 0.04, Er LL QfAyTAL r �S,l COWS 9.p—rC, r �S (3 1 - /
scrn' ar: Aws „ m" c PNMTr J �'-- _ 'TO�iY L/V/TS .�"a I a.o. yr..mcoca..'s ,aus oa„ra .r s.oacs F". New *I q
2
U
ti
ZONE A
'RflT�
"+IU*Aw
LEGEND
ZONE A: AREAS OF 100-YEAR FLOOD; BASE FLOOD
ELEVATIONS AND FLOOD HAZARD FACTORS NOT
DETERMINED.
ZONE B: AREAS BETWEEN LIMITS OF THE 10•YEAR FLOOD
AND 500-YEAR FLOOD: OR CERTAIN AREAS
SUBJECT TO.100-YEAR FLOODING WITH AVERAGE
DEPTHS LESS THAN ONE (1) FOOT.
ZONE V: AREAS OF 100-YEAR COASTAL FLOOD WITH
VELOCITY (y�/AVE ACTION); BASE FLOOD
ELEVATIONS AND FLOOD HAZARD FACTORS
DETERMINED.
NOTE: BECAUSE OF SIZE AND SCALE, THIS MAP CANNOT BE
USED FOR PRECISE FLOOD ZONE LOCATIONS.
r
r ti �m
■■,'�1 � �i_ ate._ -.i �i =�
9 aterGiO�_--
----- - •�••....au��MMM
WUfilltLS'1►L�'lI�
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.
It should be noted that this map indicates the flood
zone boundaries as of June, 1992. Primarily as a
result of Hurricane Fran, the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) has updated the
FIRM's for North Topsail Beach. However, these
maps are in the appeals stage and have not
received final FEMA approval/adoption. Initial
review of the preliminary FIRM's that have been
provided to the town indicate that all of North
Topsail Beach is now located in the V-zone.
SEE PAGE 1-48 /
taw
LAM
C0.►,.r 1'
IE A
ZONE V
0

7
The greatest storm surge impact will occur from hurricanes. Map 5 shows the general areas
in North Topsail Beach which may be affected by hurricane -generated storm surge. The
various categories of storm surge areas are defined as follows:
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. Considerable 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 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 destroyed; 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. Approximately 100% of North Topsail
Beach could be flooded by a Category 3 or greater hurricane.
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 mobile homes. Storm surge possibly 13
to 18 feet above normal. Major damage to lower floors of structures near shore due to flooding
and battering by waves and floating debris. Low-lying escape routes inland cut by rising water
3 to 5 hours before 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 residences 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. Soils
' A detailed soils survey of Onslow County has been completed by the Soil Conservation
Service. Based on that survey, there are eleven different soil associations located within
North Topsail Beach. These associations are delineated on Map 6 and their conditions for site
' development are provided in Table 17. Most soils within North Topsail Beach have some
limitations to development.
k
1
1-53

a
Lmid'mg
i•4
�S — — -
��• f _
r_ c

LEGEND
Bo Bohicket
Ca Carteret
Co Corolla
Da Dorovan
Dc Duckston
NeE Newhan
NfC Newhan
NnE Newhan - Corolla -Urban
Pa Pactolus
WaB Wando ro►rN civrrs �— ""°"",�
YaA Yaupon WiRASTAI MAiFRMAY CJIAMNEy—-- pY -
w Water EmoAQIT — — — — — — — — — am=—
NnE
NtC
—, --- __ — •uuT — YaA
NeE ULAM
sluwsoum
Ca Ca
MAP 6A
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
SOILS MAP
1-55
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.
B
r

MAP 6B
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
SOILS MAP
LEGEND
I i
Bo Bohicket NfC t '
Ca Carteret
I
Co Corolla CUMUMM AM
Da Dorovan
Dc Duckston >,w ,� ' YaA w YaA
t-�
NeE Newhan -
The preparation of this map was financed in NfC Newhan /
part through a grant provided by the North NnE Newhan - Corolla -Urban Bo
Carolina Coastal Management Program, /
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone Pa PaCtOIUS �aso�r ' S� � g
w
t�
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which WaB Wando '
y�i/ Bo �
is administered by the Office of Ocean and YaA Yaupon / I
A Coastal Resource Management, National NfC Bo
Q Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. W Water !
t
/ I
Dc w Boslmwsom
rc
I
NfC r�
Bo
YaA Dc
I Bo Yaq YaA aq„, aLs K,.Q . '— — _ / i B° NK'
• t
2 how for w — — ` / �'' O 1 Dc Bo
AL
_ YaSr•,
ACCESS C
U 1 — _ '•��` T� ./ i I I EASEMENT w. NfC
, Z uioav, ur _ _ �_ _": YaAt
�e Bo Bo w I - Gy 1 - ` - / �. Act Bo Bo
WaB WCo ova
a8 _..» Pa 4��� Y / rr
Bo
� •► Bo I I
o Bo i Bo Bo Ne -ate �ro�y�i-� -� t- I ' o° y
`""° a BO NeE w
w ur w,
i ""_•. —. -_. - � I go °P'"IQ 1 _ o I NeE 01
So
NeE �Ir •i I _
-I NeE
...ro
• oczw sc,,,,o
otaecr �� °[["" Qus rw I E .» I noe /
— — ---__ _ ., NeE •+ .�
ra,.a ULTV s r x. wtiFs °'°"'iD _ � • � ('r '" , � • ' �'_Sa'� ,
B— .— arrsrK 9c.�s _TO ►N !✓.t/ ' w.rt .,. .Dees n'iEr rereue - `y � , • yp /
Ia.•.o a.sa. A oCA ' .00 c•sa e , ' s•wor c�,. w., ' I I Y �' d
CA i
..r
a �.aE — -- �_ ' ..,,°Q•,, o.a .s a',¢ , sower c"'m's e., I �rrr wane .r,n.LAM I ws.a aFa t- L•
•— �— — _ COIN.r-aesar. a 11KM (•) I ro..s cauers __
=Gi O.EI.; Fi K - r 70PSua a�.'t2 Swe•rp, MPA-01f•e► ~
SFC' ip. i Us �ZON G Y•OCER J — ... TO�iN L/.i//TS m s'ru wawa 1 I KAC1. w.rs e/ r � .,,,ne
at I e.r s.wcs a.r■ ,ter ! /
'e„ 1 sa� J a jo-I (c) euw CUA
t I

' Table 17
Town of North Topsail Beach
tDegree and Kind of Limitation for Stated Use
Dwellings without
Septic Tank Absorption
'
Soil Types
Basements
Streets and Roads
Fields
Bo - Bohicket
severe: flooding,
severe: low strength,
severe: flooding,
ponding, shrink -swell
ponding, flooding
ponding, peres slowly
'
Ca - Carteret
severe: flooding,
severe: flooding,
severe: flooding,
ponding
ponding
ponding, poor filter
'
Co - Corolla
severe: flooding
moderate: flooding,
wetness
severe: wetness, poor
filter
Da - Dorovan
severe: flooding,
severe: flooding,
severe: flooding,
ponding, low strength
ponding
ponding
'
Dc - Duckston
severe: flooding,
severe: flooding
severe: flooding,
wetness
wetness, poor filter
'
NeE - Newhan
NfC - Newhan
severe: flooding, slope
severer flooding
severe: slope
moderate: flooding
severe: poor filter, slope
severe: poor filter
NnE - Newhan
severe: flooding, slope
severe: slope
severe: poor filter, slope
Pa - Pactolus
moderate: wetness
moderate: wetness
severe: wetness, poor
'
filter
WaB - Wando
slight
slight
severe: poor filter
YaA - Yaupon
severe: wetness
severe: low strength,
severe: peres slowly,
'
shrink -swell
wetness
' Source: Soil Survey of Onslow County, NC, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service.
5. Manmade Hazards
' North Topsail Beach is a resort community and currently there are no manmade hazards such
' as tank farms, industries, or nuclear power plants located on the island. However, there are
several areas along the town's oceanfront where submerged and partially submerged pilings
are located. These pilings are the remains of the Scotch Bonnet, Ocean City, Salty's, and
New River Inlet piers. In addition, although not necessarily a hazard, for several years there
' has been a malfunctioning sewage pumping station located in the northern end of North
Topsail Beach. This facility is expected to close prior to the certification of this land use plan.
At that time, Topsail Water and Sewer in conjunction with the Town of North Topsail Beach
' will take action to remove this facility.
11
.1
1
1-57

6. Fragile Areas
Fragile areas are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed be inappropriate,
unplanned, or poorly planned development. These areas include both Areas of Environmental
Concern (AECs) as shown on Map 7, and natural resource fragile areas.
a. Coastal Wetlands
The coastal wetlands are generally delineated on Map 7, Areas of Environmental
Concern. However, it is emphasized that the specific locations of coastal wetlands can be
determined only through on -site investigation and analysis. Coastal wetlands are defined as
salt marshes regularly- or irregularly -flooded by tides, including wind tides, provided this shall
not include hurricane or tropical storm tides. This area contains some, but not necessarily all
of the following marsh plant species: Cordgrass, Salt Marsh, Black Needlerush, Glasswort,
Salt Grass, Sea Lavender, Bulrush, Saw Grass, Cat -tail, Salt Meadow Grass, and Salt Reed
Grass. 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 industry.
Coastal wetlands also serve as barriers against flood damage and control erosion between the
estuary and uplands.
b. Estuarine Waters
Estuarine waters are generally brackish waters found in coastal estuaries and bays.
Within North Topsail Beach, estuarine waters include all of the waters on the soundside (west)
of town. 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 North Topsail Beach. 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.
C. Estuarine Shorelines
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 estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters for a distance of 75 feet
landward. 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 for 575 feet. Development within the estuarine shorelines influences the
quality of estuarine life and is subject to the damaging processes of shorefront erosion and
flooding.
(Note: Continued on page 1-61)
1-58

MAF /A
TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH, NC
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
1�GEND
®SIG'
ARCI
COX
OUT
WATT
f
1. ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS - IN SHORELINE AREAS
NOT CONTIGUOUS TO WATERS CLASSIFIED AS OUT-
TANDING RESOURCE WATERS BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT COMMISSION, ALL LAND 75 FEET
LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OR
NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED TO BE ESTUARINE
SHORELINE. IN SHORELINE AREAS CONTIGUOUS TO
WATERS CLASSIFIED AS OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS
BY THE ENVIRON-MENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION,
ALL LAND 576 FEET LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH
WATER LEVEL OR NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED
THOSE AREAS DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H SECTION
.0300. THESE AREAS INCLUDE ALL BEACHES, PRIMARY
DUNES, AND FRONTAL DUNES AND OTHER AREAS IN WHICH
GEOLOGIC, VEGETATIVE AND SOIL CONDITIONS INDICATE
A SUBSTANTIAL POSSIBILITY OF EXCESSIVE EXPANSION OR
FLOOD DAMAGE.
3. INLET HAZARD AREAS -- INLET HAZARD AREAS ARE
THOSE DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H.0304. THESE AREAS
INCLUDE LANDS THAT ARE NATURAL HAZARD AREAS
ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO EROSION, FLOODING, AND
OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SAND, WIND, AND WATER
BECAUSE OF THEIR PROXIMITY TO DYNAMIC OCEAN
4. PUBLIC TRUST AND ESTUARINE WATER AREAS -- ALL
WATERS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF NORTH TOPSAIL
BEACH ARE EITHER ESTUARINE WATERS OR PUBLIC TRUST
AREAS AS DEFINED IN 15A NCAC 7H.0206 ESTUARINE
WATERS AND .0207 PUBLIC TRUST AREAS.
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATER AREAS ARE PUBLIC
TRUST AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. ORW
AREAS ARE ALSO ESTUARINE WATER AECS.
S. IN 1984, PERMUDA ISLAND WAS DESIGNATED BY THE
COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION AS A SIGNIFICANT
COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE AREA OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN.
8

1997 NORTH TIL BEACH LAND USE ONMENTAL N
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
'
•:;
A
A)LOATUR YT
Q
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.
'g?'UMP SOUND
d �
LEGEND
SIGNIFICANT COASTAL
ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE
COASTAL WETLANDS
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE
WATERS
1. ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS — IN SHORELINE AREAS
NOT CONTIGUOUS TO WATERS CLASSIFIED AS: OUT-
TANDING RESOURCE WATERS BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL
MANAGEMENT COMMISSION, ALL LAND 75 FEET
LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OR
NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED TO BE ESTUARINE
SHORELINE. IN SHORELINE AREAS CONTIGUOUS TO
WATERS CLASSIFIED AS OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS
BY THE ENVIRON-MENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION,
ALL LAND 575 FEET LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH
WATER LEVEL OR NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED
TO BE ESTUARINE SHORELINE.
2. OCEAN HAZARD AREAS — OCEAN HAZARD AREAS ARE
THOSE AREAS DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H SECTION
.0300. THESE AREAS INCLUDE ALL BEACHES, PRIMARY
DUNES, AND FRONTAL DUNES AND OTHER AREAS IN WHICH
GEOLOGIC, VEGETATIVE AND SOIL CONDITIONS INDICATE
A SUBSTANTIAL POSSIBILITY OF EXCESSIVE EXPANSION OR
FLOOD DAMAGE.
ARMY
--
!- GIs u��i► - _ _ - — ILMpUNFill, Anil Will
iishillionFAIVA-4GE DUNES
PARK 84
OCEM CLUB WLACE I SEA DUNES EMERALD
13
i
MLLAS
EASEMENT \
INTRA:OASI- "'ERthy OHANNEL \
� I
/ % I
/ CMIl TRT91 LVf ISllm
SWAN
Qwm lmvo'1' :•tea.. + . A { �. e
� :,►: "� .•" } + + 4 - '�- as
J.
/ _ - � e ♦' \, �.J��^,u. �. a '-,S +. o
/ phi 4 _^' _ '.e• _' _a� - -b �;,�_ - -,►
- ccc 1
— / /A ` _ =ASE � 0008B YT / - +' . - ` �, �� -�- - tel: ,� • -
c >C+'V'" '� moo-. •• `�.1� +- c,�•
- Ii0 i
o /
?.. .+..^ - ^c- - Y� -ANT 1 ^{. { / nq•^ o-A� _ '• - #
' ,J ' , �~ N - - �;N • ' .1 I 'TOI�I'ItF 14[ly
i` — E�■ !'i 1�, !- m®® VV 2p 1Uf1ESf:TICK
EE
' I \ NEw RIPER 1 •
! RKCT RER I
(ABANDONED) BEACH ACCSS NO TNO T 1
RAUL ,N 1 cARa A R WITH 2G' OCEA,BA. \\ I GtsMENr AttLtiz ! musr (A)TM I TERMS ccuo
R: cL ROE MOLDING A DRACORS :ALLCON BA. 1 pORTON TOPSAIL OLKS STONATW TESTAMENTAROCIT
. �CI REOREWS. ET 1. ESTATE M'LLACE COMPANT. 1 Ar T R I RC,ERS (B) I TOPSAR REEr
'-C.i OWENS. ET AL CD-S•TAL RESaAtCE SnMU \ I SHP ATCN RatAIS
TOaN L/A(/T.S I BEACH �5 ` A J a�E u �c)
STSTDA
3. INLET HAZARD AREAS — INLET HAZARD AREAS ARE
THOSE DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H.0304. THESE AREAS
INCLUDE.LANDS THAT ARE NATURAL HAZARD AREAS
ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO EROSION, FLOODING, AND
OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SAND, WIND, AND WATER
BECAUSE OF THEIR PROXIMITY TO DYNAMIC OCEAN
INLETS. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED
THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
4. PUBLIC TRUST AND ESTUARINE WATER AREAS — ALL
WATERS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF NORTH TOPSAIL
BEACH ARE EITHER ESTUARINE WATERS OR PUBLIC TRUST
AREAS AS DEFINED IN 15A NCAC 7H.0206 ESTUARINE
WATERS AND .0207 PUBLIC TRUST AREAS.
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATER AREAS ARE PUBLIC
TRUST AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. ORW
AREAS ARE ALSO ESTUARINE WATER AECS. .
S. IN 1984, PERIMUDA ISLAND WAS DESIGNATED BY THE
COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION AS A SIGNIFICANT
COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE AREA OF
ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN.
OkDy"Q BAT
Lj
M.T SNORES RN r NEw RIVER � / ..
BEACH CLUB
20' ACCESS ..
EASEMENT / -

U
V
d. 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 level 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; 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. In determining whether the
public has acquired rights in artificially created bodies of water, the following factors shall be
considered:
t (1) the use of the body of water by the public,
(2) the length of time the public has used the area,
(3) the value of public resources in the body of water,
' (4) whether the public resources in the body of water are mobile to
the extent that they can move into -natural bodies of water,
(5) whether the creation of the artificial body of water
required permission from the state, and
(6) the value of the body of water to the public for
navigation 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 areas. The areas must be determined through
' in -field analysis and definition.
e. Ocean Hazard Areas
Ocean hazard areas consist of ocean erodible areas hazard high flood
g d areas, inlet
hazard area, and unvegetated beach area. Ocean hazard landforms include ocean dunes,
' beaches, and shorelines. Ocean dunes include both primary dunes and frontal dunes. Primary
dunes are the first mounds of sand located landward of the ocean beaches having an elevation
equal to the mean flood level (in a storm having a one percent chance of being equaled or
' exceeded in any given space) for the area plus six feet. The primary dune extends landward
to the lowest elevation in the depression behind that same mound of sand. In areas where
there is a primary dune, that dune shall be deemed to be the frontal dune. Where there is no
' primary dune, the frontal dune is deemed to be the first mound of sand located landward of
the ocean beach having sufficient vegetation, height, continuity, and configuration to offer
protective value. The dunes are essential to the protection of oceanfront areas. However,
' vegetated dunes in North Topsail Beach experienced significant damage during Hurricanes
Bertha and Fran. Although these dunes are being reconstructed, it will take approximately six
months before re -vegetation can be initiated. This is due to the high salt content that exists
tin the sand.
' 1-61

'
In addition, the town is currently investigating potential funding sources for- beach
renourishment projects. It is expected that beach renourishment will consist of the deposition
of dredged material in needed areas. The specifics of such a project is not known at this time.
'
f. 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. The forests are
important animal habitats. The Maritime Forest Protection Initiative, May 24, 1990, identified
major maritime forest sites throughout the State's coastal region. Although there were no
'
such designations within North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction, the undeveloped portions of the
Town contain significant amounts of salt -tolerant vegetation. In some areas, this growth
'
could be considered a maritime forest. This vegetation is important to North Topsail Beach
by helping to reduce adverse effects of flooding and stormwater runoffs thereby helping to
stabilize the soils in the town.
'
Historic n
g. c and Archaeological Sites
Three sites within North Topsail Beach are significant and have been determined by the
'
North Carolina Division of Archives and History to merit further study or to be worthy of
designation for the National Register of Historic Places. Two of the Topsail Beach Naval
Ordinance Facility Towers (Onslow Pender Missile Testing Sites) are on the state study list for
,
future nomination to the National Register. In 1984, Permuda Island was designated by the
Coastal Resources Commission as a significant coastal archaeological resource area of
environmental concern. Permuda Island is a former barrier island surrounded by the Stump
'
Sound and occupies approximately 55 acres.
Since 1987, Permuda Island has been owned by the State of North Carolina. A passive
'
management program has been adopted whereby as little as possible is done to disturb the
island's interior, or shoreline. Permuda Island is a conservation area and development of any
type is prohibited. Only archaeological research by qualified persons is permitted. In addition
'
to its AEC designation, Permuda Island has also been designated as a Coastal Reserve Area
and has been determined by federal officials to be eligible for the National Register of Historic
Places.
'
North Topsail Beach has fourteen recorded pre -historic archaeological sites which have
a high probability for containing significant archaeological remains. The known sites are
,
characterized by extensive concentrations of discarded marine shell. These "shell middens"
appear to date primarily to the Middle and Late Woodland cultural periods (ca. AD 200-1500),
although some earlier and later remains may also be present. The 14 known sites are
'
basically on land adjacent to the sound and Intracoastal Waterway. However, specific site
locations are not available for release to the general public (see North Carolina General Statute
70-5). Anyone undertaking land -disturbing activities in these areas should contact the North
'
Carolina Department of Cultural Resources, Division of Archives and History.
1-62

1
U
F
h. Wetlands Defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act
404 wetlands are areas covered by water or that have waterlogged 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. 404 wetlands include, but are not
limited to, bottomlands, forests, swamps, pocosin, pine savannahs, bogs, marshes, wet
meadows, and coastal wetlands.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act requires that anyone interested in depositing
dredged or fill material into "waters of the United States," including wetlands, must apply for
and receive a permit for such activities. The Wilmington office of the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers has regulatory authority in North Topsail Beach. While there may be scattered
wetland areas located within North Topsail Beach, the specific locations of wetland areas
must be determined through on -site analysis. It should be noted that in some Areas of
Environmental Concern, both the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the regulatory
requirements of the Coastal Area Management Act may have overlapping jurisdiction.
i. 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.
These areas include complex natural areas, areas that sustain remnant species,
pocosins, wooded swamps, prime wildlife habitats, or registered natural landmarks. Permuda
Island is considered a significant natural resource fragile area. This state-owned island
provides habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human activity and
thus qualifies as a complex natural area. In addition, Permuda Island serves as a prime wildlife
habitat, registered natural landmark, and historic landmark.
The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program of the Division of Parks and Recreation
works to identify and facilitate protection of the most ecologically significant natural areas
remaining in the state. Natural areas may be identified because they provide important habitat
for rare species or because they contain outstanding examples of the rich natural diversity of
this state.
Natural area inventories are often conducted county by county. Permission from
landowners is obtained before field work is undertaken. The information collected is important
for land use planning, especially planning for natural area conservation and greenways. High
quality natural areas are valuable resources that make North Carolina and its counties
attractive to live in and to visit. In addition to their educational and cultural uses, natural areas
are important reservoirs of native plants and animals and are key resources for recreation.
' Amon coastal counties, preliminary natural area inventories were completed for ten
9 P Y P
counties during 1980-82. These inventories were conducted for Brunswick, Carteret, Craven,
' Dare, Gates, Hyde, Pamlico, Pender, Tyrrell, and Onslow Counties under the Coastal Energy
Impact Program of Coastal Management. More thorough inventories were conducted for the
northeastern coastal counties as part of the Albemarle -Pamlico Estuarine Study during 1989-
' 1-63

r
1993. In 1995, a much more in-depth survey was conducted for Brunswick County; a similar
inventory is currently underway for Onslow County.
'
These inventories are funded with grants from the Natural Heritage Trust Fund which
are used to match local funding. The inventories generally take 18-24 months to complete
and cost approximately $30,000. CAMA planning grants may be considered for part of the
'
local match.
Within the town's planning jurisdiction, the area around Cedar Bush Cut Island, at the
'
northern tip of North Topsail Beach, has been identified as a Natural Heritage Priority Area.
This area has been identified on Map 8.
Additional natural resource fragile areas include the following: Three rare plant and
animal species may be found on North Topsail Beach. The Seabeach Amaranth, a threatened
plant species, is found in the beach dunes along the New River Inlet. Loggerhead turtles, a
threatened species, may be found nesting along North Topsail's beach. The Blacknecked Stilt,
'
a significant rare bird species, has had nesting sites on impoundments in the Intracoastal
Waterway.
'
j. Slopes in Excess of 12%
North Topsail Beach is a low -elevation coastal barrier island with no hazardous slopes
in excess of 12%.
k. Outstanding Resource Waters
t
In 1989, the North Carolina Division of Water Quality designated certain waters within
North Carolina as Outstanding Resource Waters. 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.
Within North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction an extensive area along the Intracoastal
P 1 � g
Waterway (generally the Stump Sound) and adjacent lands, up to 575 feet inland, are affected
by the ORW area. The most extensive developed area affected, however, is on the south side
'
of the bridge, from southeast of Ashe Island to NC 210 southward toward Surf City. - The
location of Outstanding Resource Waters has been provided on Map 7.
'
I. Marine Resources
The most significant marine resource areas in North Topsail Beach are the primary
'
nursery areas designated by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission along the Stump Sound.
These areas contain finfish and shellfish species that are dependent on abundant organisms
within the nearby coastal wetlands. These areas are shown on Map 8.
'
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality assigns water quality classifications to
all waters of the State of North Carolina. 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
classifications for tidal salt waters are as follows:
'
1-64
'

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 low quality.
All of the waters adjacent to North Topsail Beach are Class SA waters.
In addition, surface waters (streams, lakes, or estuaries) are rated as either fully
supporting (S), support -threatened (ST), partially supporting (PS), or nonsupporting (NS) by the
Division of Water Quality (DWQ). The terms refer to whether the classified uses of the water
(such as water supply, aquatic life protection and swimming) are being fully supported,
partially supported, or are not supported. For instance, saltwaters classified for commercial
shellfish harvesting (SA) would be rated as fully supporting if bacterial levels in the water were
low enough to allow harvesting. However, if fecal coliform bacteria levels were too high to
allow shellfish to be harvested, but not too high to prevent swimming, then the waters would
be rated as partially supporting since they only support the swimming. If the waters were
impacted to the point that even swimming was disallowed, the waters would be rated as
nonsupporting. Support threatened (ST) and partially supporting (PS) waters have been
identified adjacent to North Topsail Beach. The location of these areas has been provided on
Map 2.
M. Closed Shellfishing Areas
The only waters that have been closed to shellfishing adjacent to North Topsail Beach
include Rogers Bay and the Old Sound Channel near the La Costa Bay subdivision. These
areas are the same as the partially supporting waters identified on Map 2. All other waters
are open for shellfishing.
1-65

MAP 8A
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN
SENSITIVE HABITATS
LEGEND
NATURAL HERITAGE PRIORITY AREA
• PRIMARY NURSERY AREA ;�,,y1•J. ��Jl,, '7
r0r7
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The preparation of this map was financed in
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part through a grant provided by the North
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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.

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= I

SECTION II: PROJECTED DEMAND FOR DEVELOPMENT
1
A. DEMOGRAPHIC DATA
1. Demographic Trends
According to the North Carolina Office of State Planning, Onslow County may expect a 25.5%
increase in its population between 1995-2005. At this rate, the Onslow County population
would reach 185,627 persons by the year 2005. In 1995, the population of North Topsail
' Beach was equal to 0.72% of the county's total population. Assuming the town will retain
its 1995 percentage of total county population in 2005, 1,343 persons will reside within the
corporate limits of North Topsail Beach. This amounts to a numerical increase of 273 persons
' during the ten-year period. Table 18 includes a summary of projected year-round population
growth for Onslow County and its municipalities through the year 2005.
' Table 18
Onslow County
Summary of Projected Year -Round Population Growth, 1995-2005
Year -Round Population Percentage Change
P 9 9
' Overall
Municipality/Area 1995 2000 2005 '95-'00 '00-'05 '95-'05
1) Holly Ridge 787 903 988 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
2) Jacksonville 75,069 86,106 94,210 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
3) North Topsail Beach 1,070 1,227 1,343 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
' 4) Richlands 1,268 1,454 1,591 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
5) Surf City (Part) 333 382 418 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
6) Swansboro 1,351 1,550 1,695 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
Total Municipalities 79,878 91,622 100,246 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
Total Unincorporated Areas 68,034 78,037 85,381 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
' Total County 147,912 169,659 185,627 14.7% 9.4% 25.5%
Sources: North Carolina Office of State Planning; extrapolation of data for individual areas for
2000-2005 by Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. .
NOTE: Due to 1980-1995 annexations and unpredictable development patterns, indicated municipal
' growth from 1995-2005 is based on the assumption that each municipality will retain its 1995
percentage of population relative to total county population throughout 1995-2005 (as opposed
to utilizing individual 1980-1995 municipal growth rates). Therefore, the percentage change
' for each municipality/area shown above will be identical to that of Onslow County as
a whole.
' The town's total peak population in 1996, including the permanent population and seasonal
population, has been estimated at 12,265 persons. Assuming that the seasonal population
' II-1

will increase in relation to the permanent population, by the year 2005 the Town of North '
Topsail Beach may expect a total peak population of 15,394 persons. Table 19 provides a
summary of permanent, seasonal, and total peak population for the years 2000 and 2005. '
Table 19
Town of North Topsail Beach
Permanent, Seasonal, and Total Peak Population, 2000 and 2005
2000 2005
Permanent Population 1,227 1,343
Peak Seasonal Population 12,838 14,051 '
Total Peak Population 14,065 15,394
Source: North Carolina Office of State Planning, and Holland Consulting Planners, Inc. ,
Due to the damage caused by Hurricanes Bertha and Fran, the seasonal population during
1997 and 1998 is expected to be less than that experienced in 1996. However, by the '
summer of 1999, the seasonal population should be back on the rise and the projected figures
indicated above should be attained.
2. Commercial and Industrial Land Use
At the present time, approximately 20 vacant commercially zoned parcels are available for
future development in North Topsail Beach. These vacant parcels are all concentrated on the
sound side of Shore Drive across the street from the Topsail Reef condominium complex.
These parcels have been vacant for some time and to date have not attracted any commercial '
investors. Unless additional vacant parcels are zoned for commercial use, limited commercial
development is expected to take place during the planning period. The zoning of additional
commercial parcels is a significant land use issue currently facing the town. As previously '
discussed in the existing land use section of this plan, at the present time there are only three
lots in North Topsail Beach developed for commercial use.
Industrial development is not expected to occur within North Topsail Beach. Not only is land ,
area limited and expensive, industrial development would be incompatible with land use
patterns in North Topsail Beach. '
3. Housing Trends
The Town of North Topsail Beach continues to be almost exclusively a residential community. r
In 1996, 1,072 out of 1,094 total developed lots in North Topsail Beach had been developed
for residential use. This trend is expected to continue throughout the planning period.
During the next year, a significant amount of the residential construction activity will consist '
9 Y
of reconstruction following Hurricane Fran. A total of 320 dwelling units were destroyed as
a result of the storm. Of this total, approximately 50 were year-round residences. There is ,
not expected to be a significant amount of new construction until clean-up is complete and
the housing market rebounds.
-2

Based on an analysis of the existing land use map, shown on pages 1-22 and 1-23, there are
approximately 1,270 vacant lots remaining for development in North Topsail Beach. However,
approximately 600 of these lots are oceanfront, of which more than 50% have been rendered
unbuildable due to shoreline erosion and CAMA setback requirements. Therefore, only
approximately 970 out of the total 1,270 vacant lots shown on the existing land use map may
actually be developed.
If residential building permit issuance were to occur at the same average annual rate as
experienced between 1990-1995 (28 permits per year), North Topsail Beach would not reach
"build out" for approximately 34 years. Therefore, even if the rate of residential permit
issuance were three times higher than that experienced between 1990-1995, the number of
vacant lots currently available would satisfy demand through the year 2009. It should be
stressed that these figures are approximations and have been provided only to provide a
general indication of development potential in the aftermath of Hurricane Fran. More accurate
figures will not be available until the town has acquired revised shoreline maps.
4. Public Land Use
Public land use is not expected to change significantly during the planning period. The only
anticipated change will be the repair and reconstruction of existing shoreline access sites
damaged during the hurricanes. However, because the hurricanes rendered many oceanfront
lots unbuildable, the town may have increased opportunities to secure property for ocean
access sites. This may be accomplished through private donations or, in some cases,
purchase if grant funds are made available.
5. Areas Likely to Experience Maior Land Use Changes
Significant changes in existing land use patterns are not expected to occur during the planning
period. The reconstruction of damaged dwelling units is not considered to be a change in land
use. However, in cases where lots are no longer -suitable for development, and homes are not
allowed to be rebuilt, a change in land use will occur. The only additional change in land use
that could be expected to occur would come as a result of the town zoning additional
commercial parcels.
6. Summary
' The greatest obstacle to continued growth in North Topsail Beach may come as a result of
Hurricane Fran. It is yet to be seen if the destruction caused by the storm will serve as a
deterrent for future investors. The fact that approximately half of North Topsail Beach is
' designated within a Coastal Barrier Resources System Area (COBRA) and ineligible for national
flood insurance also serves as an obstacle for growth. However, it should be noted that,
although expensive, flood insurance may be provided by private companies in these cases.
Unlike many coastal communities, the entire town is accessible to water and sewer service.
The availability of these services, as well as police, fire, and rescue services, provide
attractions for development. The connection fee for sewer service is approximately $3,000
' which might also serve as a limiting factor for some investors.
1

Development issues that will confront North Topsail Beach are summarized as follows:
-- Continuing protection of areas of environmental concern.
-- Maintaining adequate planning for storm hazard mitigation and post -
disaster recovery planning.
-- Reconstruction of damaged structures including residential units and
shoreline access sites.
-- Loss of oceanfront properties rendered unbuildable as a result of
Hurricane Fran.
-- Reestablishment of the town's frontal dune system.
-- Capacity of the water and sewer systems serving the town.
-- Possible rezoning to allow for additional commercial development.
-- If the revised FIRM's for North Topsail Beach receive final FEMA
approval/adoption, all of the town will be designated as within the V
flood zone.
-- National flood insurance is only available in approximately half of North Topsail
Beach.
-- Attaining a suitable mixture of single/multi-family land use.
-- Possible acquisition of unbuildable lots by the Town of North Topsail
Beach in coordination with the Hazard Mitigation Act.
-- Occasional ocean overwash in the north end of the town is expected to
continue to be a problem.
-- Currently, zoning will result in a change in the appearance and density of land
use in southern North Topsail Beach during post -storm redevelopment.
B. PROJECTED PUBLIC FACILITIES NEEDS/AVAILABILITY
1. Water Su
As previously mentioned in the Development Constraints: Public Facilities section of this plan,
the entire Town of North Topsail Beach is supplied water by the Onslow County water
system. The county opened two new water treatment plants in April, 1996. Each plant is
capable of treating 2 million gallons of water per day (MGD). However, both plants are
expandable to 6 MGD as additional capacity is required. During calendar year 1996, the water
department's pumping average was 5.6 MGD. At the present time, the total system pumping
capacity is 11.6 MGD.
11-4

Based on available capacity and historical water usage, the Onslow County water system will
be sufficient in meeting immediate demand for the Town of North Topsail Beach. However,
due to the fact that the water system was designed as a rural "potable" water system and
was not intended to be utilized in urban areas, it does have its limitations. Water pressure
during peak. season usage is reduced to a level that is inadequate for normal household needs.
Inadequate pressure is a significant limiting factor .for future high density development,
particularly when fire protection is an issue. At the present time, the county is conducting a
hydrologic study intended to examine potential sites for the construction of additional wells,
in order to improve the system.
The county's water supply is drawn from the Cretaceous Middle Sand Aquifer. This aquifer
is also used extensively by various municipalities and industries within the central coastal
plain. Excessive concentrated pumpage may reduce the productivity of the aquifer and can
lead to salt water intrusion. Although the county has not experienced any significant water
shortages, a close monitoring of both pumping quantity and water quality will be continued
to protect the productivity of the aquifer.
2. Sewer System
Topsail Water and Sewer, Inc., a private company, provides sewer service to North Topsail
Beach. The sewer system is a land application system with a design capacity of 877,000
gallons per day (gpd) and a permitted capacity of 629,000 gpd. At the present time, the
system is treating an average of 250,000 gpd. Based on permitted capacity, the sewer
system is capable of serving a maximum population of approximately 6,290 persons.
However, as discussed in Section I of this plan, the sewer company serving North Topsail
Beach is beginning to ration the granting of new taps. In addition, during periods of peak
water usage, such as Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends, the capacity of the
sewer system can be strained. The combined permanent and peak seasonal populations in
North Topsail Beach may be expected to exceed 15,000 persons by the year 2005. Although
the seasonal population is expected to be less significant in 1997 and 1998, by the summer
of 1999 the town should have completely recovered from Hurricane Fran and the seasonal
population should be back on the rise. Therefore, the sewer system will need additional
capacity to meet the demand for new taps and to serve the peak seasonal population during
the planning period. This may be done by increasing the systems permitted capacity to equal
its design capacity.
3. Solid Waste Disposal
Currently, residential refuse collection service is provided to North Topsail Beach residents and
property owners by request only. The town has contracted this service through Waste
Industries, which includes weekly bulk pick-ups for special disposal items such as white
goods, discarded furniture, etc. Solid waste is transported to the county -operated Pony Farm
Road Landfill. This facility is expected to close after its permit expires in December, 1997.
Onslow County has contracted an engineering firm to design a. new, technically advanced
liner/leach landfill on a 170-acre site just north of the Pony Farm Landfill.
' The county is expected to have acquired the necessary permits for construction by the end
of August, 1997. If the county is able to proceed as planned, landfill construction may begin
in October, 1997.
' II-5

Based on solid waste disposal trends and a moderate population growth rate, the new landfill '
will have a life expectancy of approximately thirty years. Therefore, once the new landfill has
been completed, solid waste disposal facilities will be sufficient to meet the county's needs '
during the planning period.
4. Education Facilities ,
North Topsail Beach is served by the Onslow County School District. Two of three schools
serving North Topsail Beach are scheduled for improvements during the planning period '
totaling $2,870,000. Table 20 provides a summary of these improvements.
Table 20
Summary of Construction Projects, 1998-2001
'
Onslow County Schools Serving North Topsail Beach
School: Dixon High School - Phase I
'
Grades: 9 - 12
Project Description: Air conditioning - gym
Total Cost: $150,000
'
Project Schedule: Design Phase Start Date - Jan. '97
Construction Start Date- Feb. '97
Estimated Completion Date - May '97
School:
Grades:
Dixon Elementary School
K - 5
'
Project Description:
8 additional classrooms, art center, and cafeteria expansion
Total Cost:
Project Schedule:
$1,300,000
Design Phase Start Date - Aug. '97
'
Construction Start Date - Jan. '98
Estimated Completion Date - Dec. '98
'
School:
Dixon High School - Phase II
Grades:
9 - 12
Project Description:
4 additional classrooms, physical education improvements, and parking
'
Total Cost:
$1,420,000
Project Schedule:
Design Phase Start Date - Jan. '98
Construction Start Date - June '98
,
Estimated Completion Date - June '99
Source: Onslow County State Bond Expenditure Plan. I
Due to these improvements and Onslow County's continued dedication to providing quality
education, school facilities are expected to remain more than adequate in meeting demand I
during the planning period.

5. Police, Fire, and Rescue Facilities
' The Town of North Topsail Beach provides police and fire protection for its residents. The
new town hall has just been completed at the foot of the high-rise bridge on Highway 210.
It houses the administration and inspections departments on the second floor and police
' department on the first floor. Since the land use plan was last updated in 1991, the town has
constructed a new fire station. This station, officially called Station 1, is located north of the
high-rise bridge near the end of SR 1568. Station 2 is located on the corner of NC 210 and
Gray Street. The volunteer rescue squad located at Fire Station 1, along with the Onslow
County squad located in nearby Sneads Ferry, provide adequate rescue services for the town
and should continue to do so in the future. With the additions of the town hall and new fire
station, North Topsail Beach is currently capable of serving its population. Additional
improvements will continue to be made as the town develops.
6. Recreation
During Hurricane Fran, all existing beach access structures in the town were damaged or
destroyed. This destruction also included the demolition of the three existing Onslow County
regional access areas. As discussed earlier in the Development Constraints: Public Facilities
section of this plan, the Town of North Topsail Beach has adopted a First -Year Work Program
for storm -related recovery activities. These activities were summarized on pages 1-45 and
' 1-46. Following completion of the First -Year Work Program, the town will continue the
implementation of its Beach and Waterfront Access Plan, adopted December 16, 1996. The
following issues were addressed in the plan: limited soundside access, state development of
Permuda Island, maintenance of existing access structures, developer access requirements,
parking improvements, and the location of additional oceanfront access areas.
Onslow County is currently working to repair the three damaged regional shoreline access
sites. As of July, 1997, all parking and crossover repairs had been completed and the access
sites were reopened to the public. Until restrooms and shower facilities can be reconstructed,
portable restrooms will be utilized. At the time this plan was drafted, Onslow County was
deliberating over whether to rebuild the facilities located at the access sites to "pre -Fran"
specifications, upgrade the facilities, or possibly even rebuild the facilities on the sound side
of SR 1568. Once the county comes to an agreement on how and where to rebuild the
access facilities, construction will take 6-9 months.
It should also be noted that since the storm has rendered several lots in North Topsail Beach
unbuildable, the town may have the opportunity to acquire lots through private donation or,
if grant funds are made available, purchase. Any acquired lots could be used for future
shoreline access areas.
7. Transportation
The most serious transportation issue facing the Town of North Topsail Beach during the
planning period will continue to be the overwash that periodically occurs on, SR 1568 near
' Galleon Bay. In addition, until the town's frontal dunes have had adequate time to revegetate,
there may also be maintenance associated with the removal of windblown sand from the
town's roads. As discussed in Section I of this plan, Hurricane Fran destroyed Jenkins Way
' and approximately 80% of Topsail Road. The NCDOT decided to abandon Jenkins Way, and

Topsail Road has been repaired to the extent that it is functional. At the present time, it is
not known when the NCDOT will complete repairs to Topsail Road. An additional problem, of
a less serious nature, stems from the fact that a number of the roads in North Topsail Beach
remain unpaved. Access can be limited in these areas due to the poor condition of roads.
However, it should be noted that many of these roads are private and not publicly maintained.
The NCDOT Transportation Improvement Program provides an overview of transportation
projects anticipated in the next five years. It contains funding information and schedules for
various transportation divisions, including highways, aviation, public transportation, rail,
bicycle, pedestrians, and the Governor's Highway Safety Program. At the present time, there
are no road improvements scheduled within the Town of North Topsail Beach in the NCDOT
1996 Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP). However, some of the highway system
improvements scheduled to take place in other parts of the county may have an effect on the
traffic flow to and from North Topsail Beach. The following table provides a list of NCDOT
1996 TIP projects most relevant to the Town of North Topsail Beach.
Table 21
North Topsail Beach
Road Improvements
Length
(MI)
Route/City
ID No. Location and Description
(KM)
Schedule
US 17
R-2405* 1-40 at Wilmington to east
23.4
Design 1997-98
corporate limits of Holly Ridge.
37.7
Right-of-way 1997-98
Widen roadway to multi -lanes,
Construction 1997-2001
part on new location.
US 17
R-2406* East corporate limits of Holly
17.0
Construction 1997-99
Ridge to four lane section south
27.4
of Jacksonville. Four lane
divided facility with a bypass
east of Verona.
US 17
R-2514* Multi -lanes north of Jacksonville
21.0
Planning 1997
to multi -lanes south of New
33.8
Design 1997-2003
Bern. Widen roadway to multi-
Right-of-way 1999-2003
lanes with bypasses of
Construction 2001-2003
Belgrade, Maysville, and
Pollocksville on new location.
*Indicates Intrastate Project.
Source: NCDOT Transportation Improvement Plan, 1996.
The transportation improvements to US 17 scheduled to take place through the year 2003
should significantly improve access to and from North Topsail Beach. However, as
improvements are made, travel on US 17 may be temporarily impaired in construction areas
due to lane closings and construction vehicles. Maps 9A, B, and C indicate the location of the
three construction projects described above.
M.

0

MAP 9B
ONSLOW COUNTY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

MAP 9C
ONSLOW COUNTY ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

IC. REDEVELOPMENT ISSUES
' The greatest redevelopment issue remaining in the Town of North Topsail Beach is the
reconstruction of damaged and demolished structures as a result of the storm. Approximately
71 % of the town's total dwelling units sustained damage during the hurricane. The repair of
' these units will be an immediate priority for the town and its residents. However, in some
cases, lots may be determined unbuildable due to shoreline loss and erosion. In these cases,
the town may have the opportunity to acquire unbuildable lots for public use through private
' donation or, if grant funds are made available, purchase. At the present time, the town is
working on obtaining post -hurricane aerial photographs of the shoreline. Once the new aerials
are obtained, the town will coordinate with an engineering firm to produce a revised shoreline
map. In the event that a new shoreline map is produced prior to submittal of this plan to the
state, the existing land use map provided in this plan will be revised to reflect any changes.
' Due to the fact that the majority of the town's housing units are less than 15 years old, there
is no need for housing redevelopment or rehabilitation beyond the necessary home
improvements undertaken as a result of the storm.
D. INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
tThe Town of North Topsail Beach 1996 Land Use Plan Update was reviewed by the Onslow
County Planning Department prior to certification by the Coastal Resources Commission. This
review was provided to help ensure consistency of this plan with Onslow County's planning
efforts. Intergovernmental coordination and cooperation will continue through the ten-year
planning period. This will be essential to accomplish effective planning for public utilities,
' thoroughfare projects, community facilities, housing needs, and environmental protection. The
North Topsail Beach Board of Aldermen and Planning Board will be responsible for ensuring
adequate coordination with Onslow County, Topsail Island, mainland municipalities, and other
' government entities as may be required.
1
u

SECTION III: NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
The CAMA regulations require the establishment of a specific land classification system to
' support the local government's policy statements. This system should reflect developing land
use patterns within the town and provide a framework to be utilized by North Topsail Beach
to identify future land uses.
The formulation of a specific land classification system and policies regarding growth,
g 9
development, and management objectives is perhaps the most important part of any land use
' plan prepared under the state's Coastal Area Management Act. Because of regulatory
requirements and the nature of the particular locality, the classification system and policies
often attempt to strike a delicate balance between desires and objectives of various citizens,
' the local government, and the objectives of CAMA itself. The classification system and land
development policies should be based on an analysis of existing conditions and projected
trends and serve as general guides for producing future desired development patterns. Both
' the classification system and land use policies also interface with local regulations, including
zoning and flood ordinances or subdivision regulations, and in some cases, with state and
federal regulations.
' The 15A NCAC 7B requirements provide for the following land classifications: developed,
urban transition, limited transition, community, rural, rural with services, and conservation.
' In applying these classifications, North Topsail Beach should carefully consider where and
when various types of development should be encouraged. Additionally, the areas of
environmental concern requiring protection should be recognized by the land classification
' system. Each applicable land classification must be represented on a land classification map
(see Maps 10A and 1013).
' The following land classifications will apply in North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction:
Developed areas included in the developed land classification are currentlyurban in
character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of
' services, with the exception of central sewer service, are in place or are expected to
be provided within the next five to ten years. Land uses include residential,
commercial, public/ semi-public, and other urban land uses at the following densities
' which are prescribed by 15A NCAC 7B:
• 500 dwelling units per square mile, or
' • three dwelling units per acre, or
• where a majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or less.
' The developed category is primarily located from the New River Beach Club west to
the west end of Topsail Reef, from the east end of the Saint Regis Resort west to the
west side of Ship Watch Villas, from the Surf City/North Topsail Beach corporate limit
' line east to the west side of Golden Acres.

Urban Transition (UT) - Areas included in the urban transition classification are ,
presently being developed for urban purposes, or will be developed in the next five to
ten years. These areas should require complete urban services within the planning '
period, with the possible exception of central sewer service. This classification
includes areas with partial municipal facilities and which are usually adjacent to
developed residential areas. These areas are or will be primarily residential in nature, t
with some scattered commercial development. All areas of North Topsail Beach which
are not classified developed or conservation are classified as urban transition.
Conservation (CON) - The following areas of environmental concern and "404" '
wetlands (not an area of environmental concern). are included in the conservation
classification: '
Coastal Wetlands: This classification includes all areas of salt marsh or other marsh
subject regular or occasional flooding by tides, including wind tides. However, tidal '
flooding is understood not to include hurricane or tropical storm tides. Development
which meets the minimum use standards of 15A NCAC 7H, North Topsail Beach
zoning, and the policies contained in this plan shall be allowed in areas classified as ,
coastal wetlands. Exact locations must be determined through in -field verifications.
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. Uses consistent with
North Topsail Beach zoning, the policies contained in this plan, and the 15A NCAC 7H '
use standards shall be allowed in estuarine shoreline areas. Exact locations must be
determined through in -field verifications.
Estuarine and Public Trust Waters: All public trust areas and estuarine waters are '
included in this classification. All waters in North Topsail Beach's planning jurisdiction
are classified as estuarine waters as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0206 or public trust '
areas as described by 15A NCAC 7H.0207. Uses permitted by the policies contained
in this plan and 15A NCAC 7H shall be allowed. The policies dealing with marina and
floating home development are more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H. Exact '
locations must be determined through in -field verifications.
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. Uses permitted by North Topsail Beach's Zoning Ordinance, the '
ORW Management Plan, 15A NCAC 7H, and the policies contained in this plan shall
be allowed. The policies dealing with vegetated buffer design standards are more
restrictive than the ORW Management Plan and 15A NCAC 7H. Exact locations must '
be determined through in -field verifications.
Outstanding Resource Waters (ORW): This area includes some of the Intracoastal '
Waterway and the waters of Stump Sound which have been designated by the North
Carolina Environmental Management Commission as Outstanding Resource Waters.
The ORW locations are indicated on Map 7. The ORW waters are also considered t
estuarine waters. Allowed uses will be those permitted by the use standards included

in the Stump Sound ORW Management Plan, 15A NCAC 7H, and the policies
contained in this plan. The policies dealing with dredging in ORWs and marina and
I
floating home development are more restrictive than the ORW Management Plan and
15A NCAC 7H. Exact locations must be determined through in -field verifications.
' Ocean Hazard Areas: This classification includes all ocean hazard areas. These areas
include lands along the Atlantic shoreline where, because of their special vulnerability
to erosion or other adverse effects of sand, wind and water, uncontrolled or
' incompatible development could unreasonably endanger life or property. These areas
include beaches, frontal dunes, inlet lands, and other lands with excessive erosion or
flood damage. Development shall be permitted which is allowed by the policies
' contained in this plan, the North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance, and 15A NCAC
7H.0306. The town's inlet hazard policies are more restrictive than the minimum state
standards. Exact locations must be determined through in -field verifications.
' 404 Wetlands: This classification includes areas of 404 wetlands which meet the
wetlands definition contained in Section 404 of the Clean Water Act. Only uses
consistent with the policy statements section of this plan and the North Topsail Beach
' Zoning Ordinance will be allowed. These areas are not delineated on the Land
Classification Map. Specific locations must be determined in the field by
representatives of the Wilmington office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The
' town concurs with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' standards and does not intend
to develop more restrictive standards with the exception of the local policy which
address the installation of package treatment plants or septic tanks and the discharge
of waste in any areas classified as coastal or freshwater wetlands.
Natural Resource Fragile Areas: This classification includes lands which support native
' plant and animal communities and provide habitat qualitiesthat have remained
essentially unchanged by human activity. They may be surrounded by landscape that
has been modified but does not drastically alter conditions within the natural area. All
' areas within this classification have been recognized by the North Carolina Natural
Heritage Program as having special significance. These areas should be primarily
preserved in their natural state with only the following development allowed:
' -- Public facilities and improvements to provide shoreline access;
-- The use of areas by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as spoil disposal sites;
' -- Development of public facilities by the National Parks Service and the State of
North Carolina. However, North Topsail Beach requests the opportunity to
treview and comment on all plans for development of public facilities.
-- Development of any sound or estuarine island that is consistent with the
' development of sound and estuarine islands policy included on page IV-5 of this
plan.
' -- Uses that are consistent with and allowed by the policies section of this plan.
Exact locations must be determined through in -field verifications.
111-3
1

Distribution of Land Classifications by Water Basin
The watershed boundaries for North Topsail Beach are delineated on the Land Classification
Map. The majority of the town's developed and urban transition classified areas are
concentrated in the White Oak River Basin (75%), with the remainder (25%) in the Cape Fear
River Basin.
III-4

LEG+E�D_
SIGNIFICANT COASTAL
MAP 1 OA D DEVELOPED ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE
1997 NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH LAND USE PLAN UT URBAN TRANSITION COASTAL WETLANDS
LAND CLASSIFICATION MAP 0 The preparation of this map was financed in
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE part through a grant provided by the North
C CONSERVATION WATERS Carolina Coastal Management Program,
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
WATER BASIN Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
— --_
BOUNDARY LINE Is
administered by the Office of Ocean and
— _ — --
CAPE EAR Coastal Resource Management National
RIVE A F R BASIN Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
nistr ation.
—
_ -_ TOWN LIMIT
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AN. CITY BEACH (oORTOErNO ONSLO•' CO. I SECT. C k Al :Nt�S/NENTS, I/•[,-� -Ep,,,N
I
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SCOfLTi BONNET 2EA N I SECT. 71 O(.T..AN CITY PIER I .E 1 s � SECT. DEN caLo<�� BOSnC I + ST �11
I l No z . I
CCESS OlD $E TTLR' - A^H 1 � � I A S 8_ I r
PI-tR V I I SEA -AVE. 2 IA R_S IwCREsI I1111 1 I U-30 I HUNT°R NEAiH v� 1 I II
- L RINGt` I SURD. ( 1 TRUST
J �LUCrtlE PARKER \ NARpSpN WASTALB MAJOR DAMS J `OOl„s S-WOE�i SUBD. I� 1R¢Sl'S7EJf I ."SE 7 'PHASE 2 IjI
SUYMERSiLL SNORRS �SEA$[APE I PNAS[ 3
- - TOWN LIMITS - - - - - - - _ - _ � TOIi�V LGNIT.S '
1. SuouERtw(
ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS - IN SHORELINE AREAS 2. OCEAN HAZARD AREAS » OCEAN HAZARD AREAS ARE 3. INLET HAZARD AREAS -- INLET HAZARD AREAS ARE 4. PUBLIC TRUST AND ESTUARINE WATER AREAS -- ALL 5. IN 1984, PERMUDA ISLAND WAS DESIGNATED BY THE -- - -�� - - i
NOT CONTIGUOUS TO WATERS. CLASSIFIED AS OUT- THOSE AREAS DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H SECTION THOSE DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H.0304. THESE AREAS WATERS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF NORTH TOPSAIL COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION AS A SIGNIFICANT
COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE AREA OF 6. WETLANDS THIS CLASSIFICATION INCLUDES
TANDING RESOURCE WATERS BY THE ENVIRONMENTAL .0300. THESE AREAS INCLUDE ALL BEACHES, PRIMARY INCLUDE LANDS THAT ARE NATURAL HAZARD AREAS BEACH ARE EITHER ESTUARINE WATERS OR PUBLIC TRUST CONCENTRATED AREAS OF 404 WETLANDS WHICH MEET
MANAGEMENT COMMISSION, ALL LAND 75 FEET DUNES, AND FRONTAL DUNES AND OTHER AREAS IN WHICH ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO EROSION, FLOODING, AND AREAS AS DEFINED IN 15A NCAC 7H.0206 ESTUARINE ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. CON
LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL OR GEOLOGIC, VEGETATIVE AND SOIL CONDITIONS INDICATE OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SAND, WIND, AND WATER WATERS AND .0207 PUBLIC TRUST AREAS. ® THE WETLANDS DEFINITION CONTAINED IN SECTION 404 B
NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED TO BE ESTUARINE A SUBSTANTIAL POSSIBILITY OF EXCESSIVE EXPANSION OR BECAUSE OF THEIR PROXIMITY TO DYNAMIC OCEAN OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATER AREAS ARE PUBLIC THE CLEAN WATER ACT. ONLY USES CONSISTENT
WITH
SHORELINE. IN SHORELINE AREAS CONTIGUOUS TO FLOOD DAMAGE. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE INLETS. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED TRUST AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. ORW WTH THE POLICY STATEMENTS SECTION OF THIS PLAN
WILL
WATERS CLASSIFIED AS OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATERS DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS. THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS. AREAS ARE ALSO ESTUARINE WATER AECS. EXACT N ALLOWED. IN ALL AREAS T THE S
ARMY
BY THE ENVIRON-MENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSION,
LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD PLANNING JURISDICTION CONSIDERED BY THE U.S. ARMY
ALL LAND 575 FEET LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH VERIFICATIONS. CORPS OF ENGINEERS
WATER LEVEL OR NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED APPLICABLE FEDERAL REGULATIONS SHALL APPLY.
TO BE 4O4 WETLANDS, THE
TO BE ESTUARINE SHORELINE. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN -
FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
III-5 BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
1
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The preparation of this map was financed in
part through a grant provided by the North
Carolina Coastal Management Program,
through funds provided by the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which
is administered by the Office of Ocean and
Coastal Resource Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
S`RJAV SOS
D DEVELOPED
UT URBAN TRANSITION
C CONSERVATION
T SIGNIFICANT COASTAL
ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE
: _ COASTAL WETLANDS
r �
OUTSTANDING RESOURCE
WATERS
wjig
I �I n
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�� iON t
tt
-­PTON COLONY OCEAN SOUND VILLAGE
PARK J4
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NES 0
SEA DUNES "LLACE EMERALD
DUNES
VILLA
'YNDY DUNES
TOPSAIL VILLAS
SECTION w
n
F
MI
u R -
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LEGEND
1. ESTUARINE SHORELINE AREAS -- IN SHORELINE ARE
NOT CONTIGUOUS TO WATERS CLASSIFIED AS O
TANDING RESOURCE WATERS BY THE ENVIRONMENT
MANAGEMENT COMMISSION, ALL LAND 75 FE
LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HIGH WATER LEVEL
NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDERED TO BE ESTUARI
SHORELINE. IN SHORELINE AREAS CONTIGUOUS
WATERS CLASSIFIED AS OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATE
BY THE ENVIRON-MENTAL MANAGEMENT COMMISSI
ALL LAND 575 FEET LANDWARD FROM THE MEAN HI
WATER LEVEL OR NORMAL WATER LEVEL IS CONSIDER
TO BE ESTUARINE SHORELINE. EXACT LOCATIONS M
BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
2. OCEAN HAZARD AREAS -- OCEAN HAZARD AREAS A
THOSE AREAS DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H SECTI
.0300. THESE AREAS INCLUDE ALL BEACHES, PRIMA
DUNES, AND FRONTAL DUNES AND OTHER AREAS IN WHI
GEOLOGIC, VEGETATIVE AND SOIL CONDITIONS INDIC
A SUBSTANTIAL POSSIBILITY OF EXCESSIVE EXPANSION
FLOOD DAMAGE. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST
DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
3. INLET HAZARD AREAS -- INLET HAZARD AREAS A
THOSE DEFINED BY 15A NCAC 7H.0304. THESE ARE
INCLUDE LANDS THAT ARE NATURAL HAZARD ARE
ESPECIALLY VULNERABLE TO EROSION, FLOODING, A
OTHER ADVERSE EFFECTS OF SAND, WIND, AND WA
BECAUSE OF THEIR PROXIMITY TO DYNAMIC OC
INLETS. EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMI
THROUGH IN -FIELD VERIFICATIONS.
EASEMENT \
• MTRAZOASTAL-ATER-AY d.ArwEL— •�
cmna wax cvr Isom ^=• .
ruLAM rn=
AS 4. PUBLIC TRUST AND ESTUARINE WATER AREAS -- ALL SWAN burr
UT- WATERS UNDER THE JURISDICTION OF NORTH TOPSAIL
AL BEACH ARE EITHER ESTUARINE WATERS OR PUBLIC TRUST
ET AREAS AS DEFINED IN 15A NCAC 7H.0206 ESTUARINE
OR WATERS AND 0207 PUBLIC TRUST AREAS.t-
/
NE OUTSTANDING RESOURCE WATER AREAS ARE PUBLIC / - a_�• s_•_ �,•, 4+ .y�-•
TO TRUST AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. ORW "•=_ - -
RS AREAS ARE ALSO ESTUARINE WATER AECS. EXACT *� ow
ON, LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN -FIELD / vGH 1/VERIFICATIONS. ,l"
ED _
UST 5. IN 1984, PERMUDA ISLAND WAS DESIGNATED BY THE
COASTAL RESOURCES COMMISSION AS A SIGNIFICANT / '�� - _{ a,
COASTAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCE AREA OF
RE ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN. _
ON
RY 6. 404 WETLANDS -- THIS CLASSIFICATION INCLUDES o =
CH CONCENTRATED AREAS OF 404 WETLANDS WHICH MEET
ATE THE WETLANDS DEFINITION CONTAINED IN SECTION 404
OR OF THE CLEAN WATER ACT. ONLY USES CONSISTENT / w= ,- `- ^=_ = =
BE WITH THE POLICY STATEMENTS SECTION OF THIS PLAN
WILL BE ALLOWED. IN ALL AREAS OF THE TOWN'S
PLANNING JURISDICTION CONSIDERED BY THE U.S. ARMY _ -- — �`-'+ -_ - r _•__,_
RE CORPS OF ENGINEERS TO BE 404 WETLANDS, THE
EAS APPLICABLE FEDERAL REGULATIONS SHALL APPLY.
GRAM
lsfw4m~ _ - • ' = -"► - - = = a a
EAS EXACT LOCATIONS MUST BE DETERMINED THROUGH IN-
NO FIELD VERIFICATIONS. -
TER / I ~- -~- - - --_- __-e� ►'=__~ -�'--
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. • • - • .

1
SECTION IV: NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH POLICY STATEMENTS
This section of the plan provides policies which will address growth management and
protection of North Topsail Beach's environment. The policies should be based on the
objectives of the citizens of North Topsail Beach and satisfy the objectives of the Coastal
Resources Commission. The policies contained in this section of the land use plan were
' developed with input from the citizens of North Topsail Beach. The town employed several
means of soliciting meaningful citizen participation. The first was the appointment of a Citizen
Land Use Planning Committee. The Land Use Planning Committee conducted 13 separate
meetings to discuss development of the plan. All of those meetings were advertised and open
to the public.
' During 1995 and 1996, the NCAC 7B CAMA planning guidelines were revised. The revised
guidelines included new requirements for the development of policy statements. These
changes included the following policy statement additions:
-- A general vision policy statement describing the type of
community that the local government would like to become
within the next ten years.
-- A basic statement as to the community attitude toward resource
protection.
-- A policy addressing the protection of wetlands identified as being
of the highest functional significance on maps supplied by the
Division of Coastal Management.
-- A policy addressing moorings and mooring fields.
-- A policy addressing water quality problems and management
P Y 9 q Y P 9
measures designed to reduce or eliminate local sources of
surface water quality problems.
-- A statement as to the community attitude toward resource
production and management.
-- A statement as to the community attitude toward economic and
community development.
-- A policy addressing commitment to state and federal programs,
including housing rehabilitation, community development block
grants, housing for low and moderate income level citizens,
water and sewer installation, and rural water systems.
-- A policy addressing assistance to interstate waterways.
I IV-1

Based on the analysis of existing conditions and trends, and discussion with the town's Land
Use Planning Committee and Board of Aldermen, the policies outlined in the following section
have been formulated to provide a guide for advising and regulating development of available
land resources in North Topsail Beach throughout the current planning period, i.e., 2002.
Policies which were considered, but not adopted, are provided in Appendix I.
It is emphasized that the policy statements are extremely important and have a day-to-day
impact on individual citizens within North Topsail Beach's planning jurisdiction. The
statements have an impact in several areas, including:
-- CAMA minor and major permitting as required by N.C.G.S. 113A-118
prior to undertaking any development in any area of environmental
concern.
-- Establishment of local planning policy.
-- Review of proposed projects requiring state or federal assistance or
approval to determine consistency with local policies.
The Coastal Resources Commission requires all governments to specify stated development
policies under each one of five broad topics. These topics include:
-- Resource Protection
-- Resource Production and Management
- Economic and Community Development
-- Continuing Public Participation
-- Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans
A. VISION STATEMENT
The town supports only redevelopment/development of the community which is consistent
with or exceeds 15A NCAC 7H policies within areas of environmental concern and all
applicable local, state, and federal regulations. It is intended that the town will continue to
primarily be a seasonal and year-round residential community. The town recognizes the
hazards associated with development in some areas of North Topsail Beach. The town
believes that responsible development should occur in harmony with the environment.
The town will conserve and manage estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, public trust areas,
and estuarine shorelines, as an interrelated group of AECs so as to safeguard and perpetuate
their biological, social, economic, and aesthetic values and to ensure that development
occurring within these AECs is compatible with natural characteristics so as to minimize the
likelihood of significant loss of private property and public resources; and to protect present
common-law and statutory public rights of access to the lands and waters of the coastal area.
It is expected that the town's commercial areas will continue to be limited in size and number.
The location of commercial areas will be controlled by the North Topsail Beach Zoning
Ordinance. Industrial development will not be permitted within North Topsail Beach.
IV-2

1
11
1
B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
Community Attitude on Resource Protection
North Topsail Beach, located on the northern end of an environmentally sensitive barrier island,
recognizes the primary concern of the Coastal Resources Commission, in terms of protecting
resources, as managing Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs). The town also shares this
concern for the protection and sound management of these environmentally sensitive lands
and waters. The AECs which occur in North Topsail Beach were identified in Section F, pages
1-58 through 1-65, with areas located within both the estuarine system and ocean hazards
area. In terms of developing policies, North Topsail Beach has displayed a continuing concern
for resource protection. This concern has been displayed through the adoption of local
ordinances and support for the 15A NCAC 7H minimum use standards for areas of
environmental concern. Emphasis has been placed on protecting inlet hazard areas, dunes
(including reestablishment of destroyed dunes), ocean hazard areas, ORWs, the estuarine
environment, and public trust areas.
Physical Limitations
Soils
To mitigate existing septic tank problems and other restrictions on development posed by soil
limitations, North Topsail Beach will:
(a) Enforce all current regulations of the N.C. State Building Code and Onslow County
Health Department for all matters relating to septic tank installation/replacement in
areas with soils restrictions.
(b) Coordinate development activity with appropriate state regulatory agencies when
necessary.
(c) Rely on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to enforce the 404 wetlands permit process.
(d) North Topsail Beach opposes the installation of package treatment plants and septic
tanks which discharge waste in any areas classified as coastal wetlands or freshwater
wetlands (404).
(Note: Wetlands functional assessment maps as required by NCAC T154.0212(a)(1)(B)(iii) are
currently not available for North Topsail Beach and a policy on the wetlands of highest
functional significance is not required.)
Flood Hazard Areas
(a) North Topsail Beach will coordinate any development within the special flood hazard
area with the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management, FEMA, and the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers.
I
IV-3

1
(b) North Topsail Beach will continue to enforce its existing zoning and flood damage
prevention ordinances and follow the storm hazard mitigation plan. (See Subsection
G, Storm Hazard Mitigation, Post -Disaster Recovery, and Evacuation Plans).
Groundwater/Protection of Potable Water SUDDlies
(a) North Topsail Beach will strive to conserve its surficial groundwater resources by
supporting CAMA and N.C. Division of Water Quality stormwater run-off regulations.
(b) The primary water supply for North Topsail Beach comes through the Onslow County
system from wells located beyond the town's jurisdiction. The town encourages the
county to take all necessary steps to protect this water source.
Manmade Hazards
(a) North Topsail Beach will coordinate the regulation of underground storage tanks with
the North Carolina Division of Water Quality. North Topsail Beach will support 15A
NCAC 2N, Sections .0100-.0800, which includes the criteria and standards applicable
to underground storage tanks.
(b) With the exception of bulk fuel storage tanks used for retail and wholesale sales, and
individual heating fuel storage tanks, North Topsail Beach opposes the bulk storage of
manmade hazardous materials within its jurisdiction. This policy is supported by the
town's zoning ordinance.
(c) North Topsail Beach opposes the establishment of toxic waste p pp dump sites within
Onslow County. .!
Cultural/Historical Resources
There are three sites in North Topsail Beach worthy of designation for the National Register
of Historic Places and at least 14 historic and prehistoric period archaeological sites have been
recorded within North Topsail Beach, (see page 1-62). In order to protect these areas, North
Topsail Beach will:
(a) Coordinate where necessary housing code enforcement/redevelopment projects with
the N.C. Division of Archives and History, to ensure that any significant archeological
sites are identified and preserved.
(b) Coordinate where necessary county and town public works projects with the N.C.
Division of Archives and History, to ensure the identification and preservation of
significant archaeological sites.
Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
No industrial development of any type shall be located within North Topsail Beach's planning
jurisdiction. This policy is enforced by the Town of North Topsail Beach Zoning Ordinance.
IV-4 I

1 C. MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCE PROTECTION
Package Treatment Plant Use
North Topsail Beach is opposed to the future construction of package treatment plants within
its planning jurisdiction and will rely on appropriate state agencies to regulate this policy.
Marina and Floating Home Development
(a) North Topsail Beach opposes the construction of marinas as defined by 15A NCAC 7H
and will review and revise its zoning ordinance to provide better control of marina
placement. (Marinas are those facilities which include more than 10 boat slips.)
(b) North Topsail Beach supports the restriction of floating structures in all public trust
areas, estuarine waters, and ORW areas. 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
town jurisdiction. Floating structures shall not be used commercially or inhabited in
one place for more than 10 days. The town will develop and adopt an ordinance
designed to enforce this policy.
(c) North Topsail Beach opposes the location of drystack storage facilities for boats within
its planning jurisdiction. This policy will be supported by the town's zoning ordinance.
Moorinq Fields
Within North Topsail Beach there is not sufficient water depth to accommodate mooring fields.
Therefore, a policy statement is not required.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
(a) There are a number of estuarine islands located on North Topsail Beach's "sound -side,"
including some which have been previously disturbed. The town believes that these
islands should be developed only at a residential density not greater than R-20, in order
to enhance and maintain the existing water quality.
(b) As a matter of policy, the Town of North Topsail Beach supports the preservation of
Permuda Island, and the subsequent limitations on activities, consistent with 15A
NCAC 7H.
Ocean and Inlet Hazard Areas
(a) The town opposes the construction of additional sewer lines, waterlines, or roads in
inlet hazard areas. Following CRC certification of this plan, the only permanent
structures allowed shall be single-family residential structures. Otherwise, North
Topsail Beach will support only uses within the ocean hazard areas which are allowed
by 15A NCAC 7H and are consistent with the town's zoning and dune and vegetation
protection ordinances.
IV-5

(b) For existing and previously disturbed dunes, North Topsail Beach believes that efforts
to replant or revegetate these vital oceanfront landforms must take place.
(c) Any lot or parcel created after certification of the 1991 CAMA Land Use Plan shall
provide for a "move -back" of any proposed structure. This "move -back" line shall be
established only for the purpose of accommodating a possible relocation of a structure.
(d) Oceanside developers, by ordinance (subdivision and/or zoning), shall provide
appropriately constructed dune crossovers.
(e) North Topsail Beach supports beach nourishment and relocation as the preferred
erosion control measures for ocean hazard areas.
(f) North Topsail Beach objects to the construction of permanent shoreline stabilization
structures in ocean hazard areas and any changes in state standards which would
allow such structures.
(g) The Town of North Topsail Beach will allow uses within the inlet hazard areas which
are consistent with the town's zoning ordinance, 15A NCAC 7H use standards, and
the following use standards:
(1)
The only structures allowed in inlet hazard areas shall be single-family
structures.
(2)
'All development in the inlet hazard area shall be set back from the first line of
stable natural vegetation a distance equal to the setback required in the
adjacent ocean hazard areas;
(3)
Established common-law and statutorypublic rights of access to the public
P 9
trust lands and waters in inlet hazard areas shall not be eliminated or restricted.
Development shall not encroach upon public accessways nor shall it limit the
intended use of the accessways;
(4)
Shoreline stabilization structures shall be permitted only as a part of a publicly
supported project;
(5)
All other rules in this subchapter pertaining to development in the ocean hazard
areas shall be applied to development within the inlet hazard areas;
(6)
The following types of development shall be exempted from these inlet hazard
area setback requirements:
-- campgrounds that do not involve substantial permanent structures;
-- parking areas with clay, packed sand, or similar surfaces;
-- outdoor tennis court;
-- beach accessways consistent with 15A NCAC 7H use standards; and
-- temporary amusement stands
r
IV-6 I

1
I
(7) In all cases, development shall only be permitted if it meets other applicable
15A NCAC 7H inlet hazard areas use standards; is landward of the vegetation
line; and involves no significant alteration or removal of primary or frontal dunes
or the dune vegetation.
Coastal Wetlands
(a) The Town of North Topsail Beach opposes any project resulting in the imposition of
irreversible damage to the wetlands.
(b) Uses which require water access and uses such as utility easements, fishing piers, and
docks, will generally be allowed, but must adhere to use standards of the Coastal Area
Management Act (CAMA: 15A NCAC 7H), and the town's zoning ordinance. Shoreline
access facilities such as boat ramps may also be permitted.
(c) It is the town's policy that development in coastal wetlands be consistent with the
Conservation District (CON-D) in the existing zoning ordinance. The town may deem
it necessary to amend the ordinance in order to place all of the identified coastal
wetlands or marsh into a "Conservation District." This will greatly limit the types of
permitted development in these sensitive areas.
Estuarine Waters and Estuarine Shorelines
(a) In order to promote the quality of the estuarine waters, as well as minimize the
likelihood of significant property loss due to erosion or flooding, North Topsail Beach
will permit only those uses which are compatible with both the dynamic nature of the
estuarine shorelines and the values of the estuarine system. A substantial chance of
pollution occurring from the development should not exist. ' The cumulative impact of
development should be considered in this analysis. Residential, recreational, and
commercial uses may be permitted within the estuarine shoreline, provided that:
1. Natural barriers to erosion are preserved and not substantially weakened or
eliminated;
2. A vegetated 40' buffer is maintained wherein removal of any vegetation 3" or
greater in diameter at the base is prohibited, unless such provision prohibits a
permitted use. Removal of such vegetation shall be minimized.
3. The construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing natural drainage
is limited to that necessary for development;
4. Standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act 1978, and
as amended in 1990, are met;
5. Development does not have a significant adverse impact on the estuarine
resources;
6. Development does not significantly interfere with existing public rights or
access to, use of, navigable waters or public resources.
IV-7

(c) The AEC estuarine shoreline should be maintained in a manner consistent with 15A
NCAC 7H and local development standards.
Public Trust Waters
North Topsail Beach will promote the conservation and management of public trust areas.
Appropriate uses generally include those allowed in estuarine waters; i.e., which protect public
rights for navigation and recreation. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair
existing navigation channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide,
cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause
degradation of shellfish waters shall generally not be allowed. Allowable uses shall be those
which do not cause detriment to the physical or biological functions of public trust areas.
Such uses as navigational channels, drainage ditches, retaining walls to prevent erosion, piers
or docks, shall be permitted.
North Topsail Beach will allow uses within public trust waters which satisfy 15A NCAC 7H
minimum use standards and policies contained in this plan.
Outstanding Resource Waters
(a) The significance and almost unique pristine quality of the Stump Sound ORW is
discussed in several sections of the plan. North Topsail Beach, by all means, desires
to see the integrity of these waters enhanced and maintained. The town believes that
the types of land uses, densities, and building coverage in the ORW impact areas
should be restricted.
(b) The town is opposed to the construction of marinas and dredging in the ORWs and in
primary nursery areas, except maintenance dredging, which is allowed. In areas
outside of the ORWs, the town will revise its zoning ordinance to require issuance of
a special use permit for the construction of all commercial and noncommercial marinas.
However, dredging is permitted in the Corps of Engineers' jurisdiction of the
Intracoastal Waterway.
'
(c) New residential developments in the ORW impact area shall be restricted to four (4)
dwelling units per acre. No building shall exceed 45 feet in height.
(d) All development within the ORW impact area shall be set back according to the
requirements established by the State of North Carolina, and shall maintain consistency
with previously stated buffer requirements.
(e) Maximum lot coverage within the ORW area shall be 25%. The density shall be
calculated for the ORW impact area (575 feet) and not calculated on the entire area
of a project or subdivision.
(f) Construction of any private roads using porous material, e.g., rock, gravel, marl, or
similar material, in order to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff shall be
encouraged.
(g) All uses must be consistent with the NCAC 15A.02B.0225 Outstanding Resource
Waters and other applicable state restrictions.
IV-8 I

IBulkhead Construction
Bulkheads are any structure utilized for shoreline stabilization. North Topsail Beach will permit
the construction of bulkheads in estuarine shorelines and ORW estuarine shorelines which
satisfy the following specific use standards as specified in 15A NCAC 7H.0206(b)(7) and
7H.1100, Bulkheads and Shoreline Stabilization Measures:
(1) Bulkhead alignment, for the purpose of shoreline stabilization, must approximate mean
high water or normal water level.
(2)
Bulkheads shall be constructed landward of significant marshland or marshgrass
fringes.
3
O
Bulkhead fill material shall be obtained from an approved upland source or if the
PP P
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.
(4)
Where possible, sloping rip -rap, gabions, or vegetation must be used rather than
vertical seawalls. The primary stabilization method preferred is sloping rip -rap.
(5)
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
9 9 P
trust rights or to the property of adjacent riparian owners;
-- the need for a bulkhead below approximate high water or normal water
PP mean 9
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.
Sea Level Rise
(a) North Topsail Beach, recognizing the scientific uncertainties of projected sea level rise
and related wetlands loss, believes that any policies could not be "definite.
Therefore, except for the following bulkhead policy (b), none will be established at this
time.
1 IV-9

(b) North Topsail Beach will allow the construction of bulkheads along estuarine shorelines
to protect structures and property from rising sea level.
Maritime Forests
(a) Maritime forest areas are not designated as a conservation land classification. North
Topsail Beach will develop and adopt_ a local ordinance to regulate the removal of
vegetation.
(b) Because of its importance in soil stabilization, habitats for birds and other wildlife, and
its natural service as a canopy helping to prohibit destructive salt spray from reaching
the ground and root systems, North Topsail Beach believes that cutting or pruning of
its maritime vegetation should be very limited.
(c) Generally, construction should not disturb or destroy any maritime vegetation beyond
that necessary for the footprint of the proposed structure(s) and related uses, plus 8
feet. Lot coverage should not exceed that allowed by the town's zoning ordinance.
Water Quality Management
(a) North Topsail Beach supports the implementation of the water quality management
plans for the Cape Fear River and White Oak River basins. Specifically, the town
supports the following:
-- Control of land uses which will result in the degradation of water quality.
-- Regulation of intensive livestock operations.
-- Protection of shellfishing waters.
-- Implementation of 15A NCAC .02B.0225 Outstanding Resource Waters and
other applicable state restrictions.
-- Reduction of nitrogen and phosphorous levels in surface waters.
(b) North Topsail Beach will undertake a review of all local land use regulation ordinances
to determine if revisions should be undertaken to respond to specific water quality
management problems.
(c) North Topsail Beach supports adoption of an ordinance by Onslow County to regulate
intensive livestock operations.
(d) The town opposes any disposal of treated or partially treated sewage by ocean outfall.
Hazard Mitigation I
This plan includes a detailed storm mitigation evacuation and post -disaster recovery plan. In
addition to that plan, North Topsail Beach supports the following hazard mitigation planning
policies: i
• Mitigation strategies should be driven by North Topsail Beach because it is familiar with ■
the local hazards.
IV-10

• North Topsail Beach will engage in hazard identification, risk assessment, and the
development of an overall mitigation plan.
• Mitigation plans should reduce future damages, contribute to public safety and welfare,
and preserve economic vitality.
• North Topsail Beach's mitigation projects should be compatible with the local
jurisdiction's overall planning process and the state's hazard mitigation plan.
' • Education and training of public officials and citizens is essential to the implementation
of sound mitigation strategies and should therefore be encouraged.
• The purchase and dedication of undeveloped flood -prone property or conservation
easements as open space should be encouraged.
• North Topsail Beach will work with land conservancies and government grant programs
to purchase undeveloped properties or conservation easements when possible.
D. RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT POLICIES
Community Attitude on Resource Production and Management
Residential and commercial development which meets 15A NCAC 7H use standards, North
Topsail Beach zoning requirements, where applicable, the Stump Sound ORW Management
Plan, and the policies contained in this plan will be allowed.
The opportunities for resource production in North Topsail Beach are limited to marine
' resources, aquaculture, and limited agricultural activities. The town's most valuable resources
are its areas of environmental concern, maritime forests, and quiet residential atmosphere
which attract tourists to the community. Careful regulation/control of resource production will
continue to be the town's policy.
Recreation Sources
(a) All lands classified as conservation areas are considered valuable passive recreation
areas. Except as otherwise provided for in these policy statements, these areas should
be protected in their natural state, and development should not be allowed except for
public shoreline access including dune crossover structures and boardwalks in ocean
hazard areas.
(b) During the five-year planning period, the town will focus on improving the following
recreational facilities with funding support from local tax dollars: parking for shoreline
access, jogging and walking paths, bikeways, public boat access, and picnic facilities.
This will include repairing damage sustained from the 1996 hurricanes.
(c) North Topsail Beach believes that additional and appropriate soundside and ocean
beach access facilities should be developed.

Productive Acaricultural Lands I
(a) North Topsail Beach recognizes the presence of agriculture within environmentally
sensitive areas. In its concern for the quality of the water, the town believes that
these activities should be closely monitored by state environmental officials. Regular
monitoring of the practices and sampling the water quality should help reduce the risk
of pollution and water quality degradation from runoff or accidental dumping of noxious _
substances into the adjacent waters.
(b) The town also supports the Natural Resources Conservation Service "Best
Management Practices Program.
Productive Forest Lands
There are no productive forest lands found in North Topsail Beach; therefore, no policy
statement is necessary. i
Aouaculture Activities
Aquaculture is considered the cultivation of aquatic plants and animals under controlled
conditions. The following policies shall apply.
(a) Both commercial agricultural and aquacultural activities are currently taking place on
North Topsail Beach. Because of the potential ecological hazards caused from use of
chemical pesticides and/or fertilizers and subsequent runoff, as well as the "dumping"
of aquacultural wastes, neither of these uses are deemed desirable -- especially
because of their proximity to coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and shorelines, and
the Stump Sound ORW (see Map 7). The town believes that these existing operations
should be carefully monitored to document environmental impacts.
(b) North Topsail Beach permits aquaculture activities which meet applicable federal, state
and local policies and permit requirements. North Topsail Beach reserves the right to
comment on all aquaculture activities which require Division of Water Quality
permitting. The town will revise its zoning ordinance to regulate aquaculture activities.
(c) North Topsail Beach objects to any discharge of water from aquaculture activities that
will degrade in any way the receiving waters. The town objects to withdrawing water
from aquifers or surface sources if such withdrawal will endanger water quality or
water supply from the aquifers or surface sources.
Residential. Commercial. and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
(a) All permitted development, according to the town's zoning ordinance, shall strictly
comply with state CAMA use standards (71-1), so as not to cause adverse impacts upon
any AEC or other fragile resource identified in this plan. Both residential and
commercial development may be permitted within the estuarine system (including
ORW), as long as they comply with other resource protection policies of North Topsail
Beach).
IV-12

(b) North Topsail Beach supports continued residential development and growth according
to the availability of necessary basic support services to support that development.
The locations and densities should be consistent with the town's Zoning Map and
Ordinance.
However, in environmentally sensitive areas, such as the estuarine shoreline and ORW
impact areas, current allowable densities may be excessive. Therefore, the town shall
consider amending its ordinance structure whereby the allowable densities, as defined
in the town's Zoning Ordinance, shall apply to residential development on a "net
buildable" acreage basis.
(c) North Topsail Beach objects to the subdivision of "pipe stem" lots. This policy will be
supported through a revision to the North Topsail Beach Subdivision Ordinance.
Marine Resource Areas
(a) North Topsail Beach reserves the right to review and comment on policies and
requirements of the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries which govern
commercial and recreational fisheries and activities, including trawling activities.
(b) The town opposes any trawling activities take place within the primary nursery areas
i or ORWs.
(c) With their extensive SA and SA-ORW classification, the soundside waters of North
Topsail Beach are valuable primary nursery areas. North Topsail Beach supports the
development density restrictions enforced by local, state, and federal agencies for land
uses in the estuarine system and ORW impact areas. Density controls, vegetated
buffers, and impervious coverage limitations should help maintain the water quality in
the long-term and enhance both recreational and commercial fishing.
1 (d) The town opposes the direct discharge of any potentially noxious substance, including
agricultural/aquacultural runoff, or effluent, into its productive waters.
(e) North Topsail Beach opposes all trawling within 1 /2 mile of its ocean shoreline.
(Note: This policy is unenforceable through local ordinance).
Peat or Phosohate Mining
As there are no peat or phosphate deposits located within North Topsail Beach's planning
jurisdiction, a policy statement is not necessary.
Off -Road Vehicles
Because of the sensitive nature of the dunes and ocean beaches, as well as pedestrian safety,
North Topsail Beach believes that driving should not be allowed on the beach except for
emergency vehicles. This policy will be supported with a local ordinance.
IV-13

E. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS
Community Attitude on Economic and Community Development
As a resort, recreational, oceanfront community, the Town of North Topsail Beach is not
opposed to growth. In fact, the town anticipates continual population growth during the next
ten years, both seasonally and year-round. The quiet waterfront natural setting has attracted
many retirees from various parts of the country. This is a trend likely to continue, a fact
which the town recognizes.
North Topsail Beach recognizes that improperly managed growth can actually harm or destroy
the very "appeal" which attracts new residents and tourists in the first place. Therefore, the
town's overall attitude toward growth is expressed in the following comments.
(a) North Topsail Beach believes in managing and directing the town's growth and
development in balance with environmental protection and enhancement and
the availability of adequate, safe municipal services.
(b) Population growth and land development should be based on: 1) the suitability
of land to accommodate the use; 2) the capacity of the environment; 3) the
compatibility with goals and objectives of the town; 4) density; 5) the
availability of support facilities and services; and 6) a responsible attitude
toward strict adherence to environmental protection regulations.
(c) The town must prepare for increasing peak population growth, projected to
reach 1,343 permanent residents and 14,051 seasonal residents by 2005.
Further, it is the town's intent to protect the community from adverse
developments by taking the following actions:
1. To institute a continuous land use planning and growth management
program by strictly enforcing relevant local ordinances and adherence to
state and federal guidelines.
2. To either guide new development away from areas of environmental ,
concern (AECs) and other special and sensitive areas, as reflected in
policies for resource protection and resource production and
management, or ensure that any allowed development takes place in an
environmentally responsible manner.
3. To support new development only in accordance with the capacity to
accommodate water and sewer needs.
4. To guide new development away from hazardous areas where there is
a tendency toward excessive erosion, septic tank problems, flooding,
and washover.
IV-14 ,

ILocal Commitment to Providing Services to Development
The Town of North Topsail Beach is committed to providing appropriate municipal services to
support additional development. The level of such basic services as trash collection, police
and fire protection, etc., shall be based on the town's financial capacity and/or the economic
feasibility of those services, and consistency with other stated development policies and land
use regulations. Water and sewer services will be provided in accordance with the following
water and sewer system policy statements.
Water Supply
(a) North Topsail Beach supports the development of additional well sites to provide
increased water supply for the town by the Onslow County water system.
(b) North Topsail Beach supports continuous monitoring of the quantity of water pumped
from the Cretaceous Middle Sand Aquifer in order to avoid water supply depletion
and/or salt water intrusion.
Sewer System
North Topsail Beach supports expansion of the North Topsail Water and Sewer System to
provide additional capacity to meet the demand for new taps and to serve the peak seasonal
population during the planning period. The system's permitted capacity should be increased
to equal its design capacity.
Stormwater
(a) North Topsail Beach will cooperate with the NCDOT the North Carolina Division of
P
Water Quality, and other state agencies in mitigating the impact of stormwater runoff
1 within the town's planning jurisdiction. The town will support the Division of Water
Quality stormwater runoff retention permitting process through the town's zoning
permit system.
' (b) North Topsail Beach recognizes the value of water quality maintenance for the
protection of its previously described fragile areas and for the provision of clean water
for fishing and recreational purposes. Previously cited resource protection policies
regarding density, lot coverage, and vegetation removal all affect stormwater runoff.
Additionally, the town will support existing state regulations relating to stormwater
runoff resulting from development (Stormwater, Disposal Policy [15A NCAC 21-1.001-
10031).
' (c) North Topsail Beach believes that possible agricultural runoff from estuarine islands
should be controlled through implementation of U.S. Soil Conservation Service "Best
Management Practices" program, and/or North Carolina State "Best Management
Practices."
I IV-15

Solid Waste
(a) North Topsail Beach supports Onslow County's efforts to develop a new landfill north
of the existing Pony Farm Landfill.
(b) North Topsail Beach will support efforts to educate people and businesses on waste
reduction and recycling. The town vigorously supports recycling by all users of the
Onslow County Landfill and supports setting up practical collection methods and
education efforts to achieve a high degree of county -wide recycling.
(c) North Topsail Beach supports the siting of recycling centers within the commercial land
classification.
Energ
y Facilitv Sitinq and Develo ment
(a) There are no electric generating or other power generating plants located in or
proposed for location within North Topsail Beach's planning jurisdiction. The town will
not support the location of permanent energy generating facilities within its jurisdiction.
(b) North Topsail Beach supports a county policy of reviewing proposals for development
of electric generating plants within Onslow County on a case -by -case basis, judging
the need for the facility by the county against all identified possible adverse impacts.
The town reserves the right to comment on the impacts of any energy facility proposed
for location within Onslow County.
(c) The Town of North Topsail Beach will not support the development of any industrial
use, including energy facilities. Such uses could cause extensive or irreversible
damage to the town's existing fragile or environmentally sensitive areas.
(d) The town also opposes the development of energy facilities which would increase the
amount of manmade hazards within its jurisdiction, including the storage and/or trans-
shipment of crude oil.
(e) The Town of North Topsail Beach is apposed to off -shore drilling for either exploration
for or production of either oil or gas and the location of onshore support facilities for
such activities.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
The only significant redevelopment issue facing North Topsail Beach through 2005 will be
reconstruction following a hurricane or other natural disaster. The town will allow the
reconstruction of any structures demolished by natural disaster which will comply with all
applicable local and state regulations and the policies contained in this plan. The town will
not reduce local setbacks on lots located on ocean front streets to render unbuildable lots '
(because of erosion) buildable. The town will accept the donation of unbuildable lots or may
consider spending local funds to acquire such unbuildable lots which are suitable for public
use. Mobile home parks in North Topsail Beach have been previously developed at higher
densities than the town's highest density zoning classification; i.e., R-5. Therefore, in area
where current density exceeds the R-5 classification, such as the mobile home parks, any
redevelopment which takes place should be permitted at no greater density than that allowed
in R-5 zoning, except where previously platted lots exceed such a density.
IV-16 I

Types and Locations of Desired Industry
North Topsail Beach opposes industrial development of any type. This policy is supported by
the North Topsail Beach zoning ordinance.
Community Facilities
North Topsail Beach considers its existing community facilities, including the Municipal
Building, completed in 1997, to be adequate to serve the town's needs during the planning
period. This policy statement does not apply to sewer facilities, water facilities, shoreline
access, outdoor recreation, and associated parking.
Shoreline Access
(a) North Topsail Beach supports the preservation and development of estuarine and ocean
shoreline access areas to ensure adequate shoreline access within all areas of the
town. This includes repair/redevelopment of facilities damaged/destroyed by the 1996
' hurricanes.
(b) North Topsail Beach will implement the shoreline access site improvements as
recommended by the 1996 North Topsail Beach Beach and Waterfront Access Plan.
(c) North Topsail Beach will attempt to secure funding for the development of shoreline
access sites through the state shoreline access grant program.
Commitment to State and Federal Programs
North Topsail Beach is receptive to state and federal programs, particularly those which
provide improvements to the town. The town will continue to support programs, including but
not limited to the following: North Carolina Department of Transportation road and bridge
1 improvement programs, the CAMA planning process and permitting programs, the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers regulatory and permitting efforts, dredging and channel maintenance by
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and federal and state projects which provide efficient and
safe boat access for commercial and sport fishing. There is no demand for substandard
housing rehabilitation programs nor housing for low to moderate income families and
individuals.
Assistance in Channel Maintenance
North Topsail Beach will support efforts of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and state
officials to provide proper channel maintenance. However, the town opposes the
establishment of any dredge spoil sites within its jurisdiction, with the exception of usable
spoil material for beach nourishment.
Assistance in Interstate Waterways
North Topsail Beach considers the interstate waterway to be a valuable economic asset. The
town will provide assistance by providing temporary easements across town -owned property
1 for dredge spoil piping for beach renourishment projects.
I
IV-17

Tourism
North Topsail Beach is generally supportive of the development and expansion of travel and
tourism facilities. However, all such facilities must be consistent with the policies on resource
protection, resource production and management, and other community development policies.
North Topsail Beach will implement the following policies to further the development of
tourism:
(a) North Topsail Beach will support North Carolina Department of Transportation projects
to improve access to and within Onslow County.
(b) North Topsail Beach will support projects that will increase public access to shoreline
areas.
(c) North Topsail Beach will continue to support the activities of the North Carolina
Division of Travel and Tourism; specifically, the monitoring of tourism -related industry,
efforts to promote tourism -related commercial activity, and efforts to enhance and
provide shoreline resources.
(d) North Topsail Beach will continue to support the activities of Onslow County to
increase tourism.
Transportation
North Topsail Beach supports the following specific transportation improvements:
Length
(MI)
Route/City ID No.
Location and Description
(KM)
Schedule
US 17 R-2405 *
1-40 at Wilmington to east
23.4
Design 1997-98
corporate limits of Holly Ridge.
37.7
Right-of-way 1997-98
Widen roadway to multi -lanes,
Construction 1997-2001
part on new location.
US 17 R-2406*
East corporate limits of Holly
17.0
Construction 1997-99
Ridge to four lane section south
27.4
of Jacksonville. Four lane
divided facility with a bypass
east of Verona.
US 17 R-2514*
Multi -lanes north of Jacksonville
21.0
Planning 1997
to multi -lanes south of New
33.8
Design 1997-2003
Bern. Widen roadway to multi-
Right-of-way 1999-2003
lanes with bypasses of
Construction 2001-2003
Belgrade, Maysville, and
Pollocksville on new location.
*Indicates Intrastate Project.
Source: NCDOT Transportation Improvement Plan, 1996.
IV-18

ITypes of Urban Growth Patterns Desired/Land Use Trends
Generally, the Town of North Topsail Beach wishes to preserve and promote the quiet,
peaceful, low -density atmosphere and reputation of the town. The primary urban land uses
in North Topsail Beach will be for residential (housing) and commercial development. Specific
policies on these areas are addressed below, beginning with residential development policies:
(a) Housing
' It shall be the policy of North Topsail Beach to continue to encourage the development
of a variety of housing types to meet the needs and desires of existing and future
' citizens through the following:
(1) To maintain certain areas exclusively for conventional single_ -family dwellings
for the growing population.
(2) To retain a height limitation for residential and commercial structures.
1 (3) To require new residential subdivisions to provide for public access in a manner
so specified in local ordinance.
(b) Commercial Development
Generally, the town wishes to enhance and promote quality commercial development
through the following:
(1) To encourage community businesses to develop in the areas zoned commercial.
' (2) To establish standards for the control of landscaping and signage in commercial
areas.
(c) Economic and Community Development Strategies
(1) The Town of North Topsail Beach will continue to enforce its existing
' regulations and controls.
(2) As a follow-up to the 1996 storms, the town will review both its zoning and
' subdivision ordinances for possible revisions relating to development densities
and related issues of runoff, vegetative buffers, setbacks, vegetation removal,
and percent of impervious surface limits.
F. CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES
As the initial step in the preparation of this document, North Topsail Beach prepared and
adopted a "Public Participation Plan". However, due to the 1996 hurricanes, it became
necessary to prepare the Land Use Plan in two separate phases. As a result, two different
participation plans were adopted (see Appendix II). The plans outline the methodology for
citizen involvement. Public involvement was to be generated through public information
meetings, advertising in local newspapers, and development of the plan by the Town of North
Topsail Beach Land Use Planning Committee.
' IV-19

A public information meeting was conducted at the outset of the project on February 11,
1997, at 7:00 p.m. at the South End Fire Hall in North Topsail Beach. Subsequently, meetings
of the Land Use Planning Committee were held on March 20, 1997; April 15, 1997; May 29,
1997; June 25, 1997; July 23, 1997; August 27, 1997; September 17, 1997; October 22,
1997; December 3, 1997; January 22, 1998; February 26, 1998; March 26, 1998; and April
23, 1998. All meetings were advertised and open to the public.
On June 24, 1998, a public information meeting was conducted to give individuals an
opportunity to comment on the draft plan prior to its submittal to the Division of Coastal '
Management (DCM). This meeting was advertised in The Tor)sail Voice on June 17, 1998,
and in The Daily News on June 14, 1998.
The preliminary plan was submitted to the DCM for comment on July 9, 1998. Following ,
receipt of DCM comments, the plan was amended, and a formal public hearing on the final
document was conducted on March 13, 1999. The public hearing was advertised in the The
Topsail Voice on February 10, 1999, and The Daily News on February 11, 1999. The plan r
was approved by the North Topsail Beach Board of Aldermen on March 13, 1999, and
submitted to the Coastal Resources Commission for certification. The plan was certified on
March 26, 1999. 1 1 1
Citizen input will continue to be solicited, primarily through the Land Use Planning Committee,
with advertised and adequately publicized public meetings held to discuss special land use
issues and to keep citizens informed.
G. STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION PLAN I
The purpose of a storm hazard mitigation plan is to assist a town in managing development ,
in potentially hazardous areas through establishing storm hazard mitigation policies and to
reduce the risks associated with severe storms and hurricanes by developing post -disaster
reconstruction/recovery policies. North Topsail Beach has a detailed Storm Hazard Mitigation
and Post -Disaster Recovery and Evacuation Plan which was adopted in July 1997. It is by
reference incorporated as a part of this land use plan. Copies of that plan are available at the
North Topsail Beach Municipal Building. ,
STORM HAZARD MITIGATION POLICIES
The effect of storm related flooding in North Topsail Beach is discussed on pages 1-50 to 1-53 ,
of the Land Use Plan, and areas subject to storm surge flooding are shown on Map 5, page
1-54. A Category One to Two storm would inundate all of North Topsail Beach except for
some limited frontal dune areas.
Hazard mitigation, or actions taken to reduce the probability or impact of a disaster could
involve a number of activities or policy decisions. The starting point, however, 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 four causes of
fatalities and property damage are high winds, flooding, wave action, and erosion. All of
these apply to North Topsail Beach. I
IV-20 I

1 a. High Winds
' High winds are the major determinants of a hurricane, by definition, i.e., a tropical disturbance
with sustained winds of at least 73 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, therefore, is an important consideration in storm
hazard mitigation planning.
b. Flooding
' 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 during
thurricanes.) Flooding can cause extensive damage in inland areas. Almost all of North Topsail
Beach may be subject to storm related flood damage. Consideration of potential flood damage
is important to the town's efforts to develop storm mitigation policies.
C. Policy Statements: Storm Hazard Mitigation
In order to minimize the damage potentially caused by the effects of a hurricane or other major
storm, North Topsail Beach will implement the following policies:
' High Winds
North Topsail Beach supports enforcement of the N.C. State Building Code. The town
1 will continue to enforce the State Building Code on wind resistant construction with
design standards of 110 mph wind loads.
Flooding
North Topsail Beach is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance program
and is supportive of hazard mitigation elements. The town is participating in the
regular phase of the insurance program. North Topsail Beach also supports continued
enforcement of the CAMA and 404 Wetlands development permit processes in areas
' potentially susceptible to flooding. When reviewing development proposals, the town
will work to reduce density in areas susceptible to flooding. In addition, the town will
encourage the public purchase of land in the most hazardous areas.
Mitigation Policies Related to Redevelopment of Hazard Areas After a Storm
Reconstruction of damaged properties in North Topsail Beach after a storm will be
subject to the following:
IV-21

"The North Carolina Building Code requires any building damaged
in excess of 50 percent of its value to conform with code
requirements for new buildings when repaired. (This will be
particularly beneficial in the event of wind damage.)"
"The Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance requires that all existing ,
structures must comply with requirements related to elevation
above the 100-year floodplain elevation and floodproofing if they
are substantially improved. A substantial improvement is defined
as "any repair, reconstruction, or improvement of a building, the
cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value
of the building either before the improvement or repair is started,
or before damage occurred if the building has been damaged."
(Source: North Topsail Beach Storm Hazard Mitigation and Post
Disaster Recovery and Education Plan)
Evacuation Plans
,
The town will coordinate evacuation planning with Onslow County. North Topsail
Beach will encourage motels, condominiums, and multi -family developments (five or
more dwelling units) to post evacuation instructions that identify routes and the
locations of available public shelters.
Implementation: Storm Hazard Mitigation
(a) North Topsail Beach will continue to enforce the standards of the State Building
Code.
(b) The town 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, FEMA, as well as local ordinances such
as zoning and flood damage prevention regulations.
(c) The town will discourage high density development in high hazard areas through
implementation of the town's Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances.
(d) Damaged structures which were destroyed or sustained "major damage" and
which did not conform to the town's building regulations, zoning ordinances, and
other storm hazard mitigation policies, i.e., basic measures to reduce damage by
high winds, flooding, wave action or erosion, must be repaired or redeveloped
according to those policies. In some instances, this may mean relocation of
construction, or no reconstruction at all. Building permits to restore destroyed
or "major" damaged structures which were built in conformance with the town's
building code and town storm hazard mitigation policies shall be issued
automatically. All structures suffering major damage will be repaired according
to the State Building Code and town Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. All
structures suffering minor damage, regardless of location, will be allowed to be
,
rebuilt to the original condition prior to the storm.
POST -DISASTER RECONSTRUCTION PLAN AND POLICIES
The Storm Preparedness Plan, Town of North Topsail Beach, adopted in July 1997, provides
the post -disaster reconstruction plan and policies. '
IV-22 I

I SECTION V: RELATIONSHIP OF POLICIES AND LAND. CLASSIFICATIONS
The 15A NCAC 7B planning guidelines require that this land use plan relate the policies
section to the land classification map and provide an indication as to which land uses are
appropriate in each land classification. The North Topsail Beach zoning ordinance is consistent
with the land classification map and supports the distribution of land uses shown on that map.
A. DEVELOPED CLASS
' North Topsail Beach's developed land classification includes residential, commercial, and
public land uses. Commercial land use and commercial campgrounds consistent with the
' town's zoning ordinance shall be allowed. The developed residential classification will allow
single-family and multi -family development which is consistent with the town's zoning
ordinance. The lands classified as developed will require basic urban services. These lands
either are developed or will be developed during the planning period.
B. URBAN TRANSITION CLASS
The urban transition classification will provide lands to accommodate future urban growth
within the planning period. Most development within this classification will be single and
1 multi -family, residential and special uses as allowed by the North Topsail Beach zoning
ordinance. Complete urban services will be required during the planning period.
' C. CONSERVATION CLASS
The conservation classification will provide for the long-term management of North Topsail
Beach's areas of environmental concern. Development within the conservation classification
must be consistent with the policies contained in this plan. Except for the marina and floating
home development, inlet hazard areas, and outstanding resource waters (ORW) policies, the
policies contained in the plan are not more restrictive than the 15A NCAC 7H use standards.
ID. CLASSIFICATION LOCATIONS
The land classification maps provide the locations of the various classifications. Because of
the complexity and importance of North Topsail Beach's areas of environmental concern, the
conservation classification was divided into eight subcategories of conservation areas. The
land classification maps indicate a continuation of existing development patterns with the
following locations of land use categories:
Developed areas included in the developed land classification are currently urban in
character, with no or minimal undeveloped land remaining. Municipal types of services, with
the exception of central sewer service, are in place or are expected to be provided within the
next five to ten years. Land uses include residential, commercial, public/ semi-public, and
' other urban land uses at the following densities which are prescribed by 15A NCAC 7B:
' V-1

• 500 dwelling units per square mile, or
• three dwelling units per acre, or
• where a majority of lots are 15,000 square feet or less.
The developed category is primarily located from the New River Beach Club west to
the west end of Topsail Reef, from the east end of the Saint Regis Resort west to west side
of Ship Watch Villas, from the Surf City/North Topsail Beach corporate_ limit line east to the
west side of Golden Acres.
Urban Transition (UT) - Areas included in the urban transition classification are
presently being developed for urban purposes, or will be developed in the next five to ten
years. These areas should require complete urban services within the planning period, with
the possible exception of central sewer service. This classification includes areas with partial
municipal facilities and which are usually adjacent to developed residential areas. These areas
are or will be primarily residential in nature, with some scattered commercial development.
All areas of North Topsail Beach which are not classified developed or conservation are
classified as urban transition.
Conservation: The conservation classification locations are described in detail in the
fragile areas section of the plan (page 1-58).
E. SUMMARY
The Town of North Topsail Beach enforces both zoning. and subdivision ordinances. The
zoning ordinance is consistent with this land use plan and includes 14 separate zoning
categories. The developed and urban transition land classes are appropriate locations for the
following zoning categories:
R-A
Residential -Agricultural
R-20
Residential District
R-15
Residential District
R-10
Residential District
R-8
Multi -Family Residential
CU-R-8
Conditional Use Multi -Family Residential
R-5
Multi -Family Residential
CU-13-5
Conditional Use Multi -Family Residential
MHR
Manufactured Housing Residential
B-1
Business District
CU-B-1
Conditional Use Business District
B-2
Marina Business District
CU-B-2
Conditional Use Marina Business District
In addition, there is a conservation district which applies to the conservation classified
properties.
V-2

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APPENDIX
TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH
POLICIES CONSIDERED BUT NOT ADOPTED
B. RESOURCE PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENTS
Physical Limitations
' Soils
' -- The Town of North Topsail Beach is aware of both the severe limitations for septic tank
absorption by virtually all of the soil types within its jurisdiction, and the potential
groundwater and surface water pollution from malfunctioning systems. Therefore, the
' town opposes the placement of any additional septic systems within its jurisdiction.
However, there may possibly be some areas where adequate percolation may be
feasible. In such instances, the town will accept the decision of the Onslow County
' Health Department.
-- The town believes that all new structures should be built only on soils with suitable
' load bearing capacity.
Flood Hazard Areas
-- North Topsail Beach opposes any increase in the V-zone areas which were in effect
prior to the 1996 hurricanes.
-- All of North Topsail Beach is within at least the 100-year flood zone, with much of the
town being subject to high velocity or "V-zone" conditions. The town believes that
development should be allowed within these areas, but only under strict adherence to
the town's ordinances and land use controls; i.e., Zoning, Subdivision Regulations,
Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance, and N.C. Building Code.
Cultural/Historical Resources
-- The significant cultural and archaeological resources of North Topsail Beach, including
'
Permuda Island, have been documented. The town recognizes that these are valuable
resources which need to be protected. In order to ensure proper identification and
preservation of significant archaeological resources, North Topsail Beach will notify the
'
N.C. Division of Archives prior to the development of previously undisturbed areas.
The Town of North Topsail Beach is concerned about the long-term protective status
of Permuda Island. If the state ever relinquishes ownership or changes the status, then
the Town of North Topsail Beach will continue to enforce the protective provisions of
state guidelines.

C. MISCELLANEOUS RESOURCE PROTECTION
Package Treatment Plant Use
-- North Topsail Beach will support the construction of package treatment plants which
are approved and permitted by the State Division of Water Quality and by the Onslow
County Health Department/Division of Health Services. If any package plants are
approved, North Topsail Beach supports requirement of a specific contingency plan
specifying how ongoing private operation and maintenance of the plant will be
provided, and detailing provisions for assumption of the plant into a public system
should the private operation fail.
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach recognizes package treatment plants as "point
sources" of waste water discharge. The town opposes the development and discharge
of such plants in any ORW, primary nursery area, any waters classified as "SA," or any
coastal wetlands.
Marina and Floating Home Development
-- Because of the special sensitivity of the waters within North Topsail Beach's
jurisdiction, the development of marinas or placement of floating homes are considered
undesirable. In accordance with state definitions, (15A NCAC 7H.208(b)(5)), marinas
are defined as any publicly or privately owned dock constructed to accommodate more
than ten boats and providing any of the following services: permanent or transient
docking spaces, dry storage, fueling facilities, haulout facilities, and repair service. (91)
North Topsail Beach opposes the construction or expansion of marinas anywhere within
the Stump Sound ORW, primary nursery areas, "SA" waters classification, or in coastal
wetlands. However, private docks and piers serving individual residential units and
containing no more than ten (10) slips will be permitted.
Because of the limited amount of available land for development, and the extensive
ORW impact area, North Topsail Beach will not support the development of upland -
excavated marinas.
-- North Topsail Beach will permit the construction and expansion of both open water and
upland marinas which meet local zoning ordinance requirements, the requirements of
the 15A NCAC 7H use standards, and the Stump Sound ORW Management Plan.
- Floating homes or structures shall not be used or inhabited for more than ten (10) days.
All waste disposal must adhere to requirements of the Onslow County Health
Department and/or the N.C. Division of Health Services.
Floating homes or structures are defined here as any structure or vessel used,
designed, and occupied as a permanent dwelling unit, business, office, or source of any
occupation, any private or social club which is primarily immobile and out of navigation,
or which functions substantially as a land structure while moored or docked on waters
within the town's jurisdiction.
2

-- Drystacking storage facilities are considered a questionable use within North Topsail
Beach's jurisdiction, and their location should be carefully controlled.
-- North Topsail Beach will allow the construction of drystack storage facilities which
meet 15A NCAC 7H use standards, all local applicable code requirements, and the
Stump Sound ORW Management Plan.
Mooring Fields
-- North Topsail Beach is concerned with the potential for the development of mooring
fields. The town opposes the development of mooring fields and will pursue the
' development of an ordinance to regulate the establishment of mooring fields.
-- North Topsail Beach does not object to the establishment of mooring fields within its
' planning jurisdiction.
Development of Sound and Estuarine Islands
' -- North Topsail Beach desires to restrict any construction on sound or estuarine islands.
The town will review its zoning ordinance to incorporate controls to regulate
' development on sound and estuarine islands. Until the zoning ordinance is revised, the
town will support development on islands which satisfies the 15A NCAC 7H use
standards.
-- Since 1987, Permuda Island has been owned by the State of North Carolina. A passive
management program has been adopted whereby as little as possible is done to disturb
the island's interior, or shoreline. Permuda Island is a conservation area, and
development of any type is prohibited. Only archaeological research by qualified
persons is permitted. In addition to its AEC designation, Permuda Island has also been
a Coastal Reserve Area and has been determined by federal officials to be eligible for
the National Register of Historic Places.
' Ocean and Inlet Hazard Areas
-- Within the ocean hazard area, the maximum allowable residential density shall be one
(1) residential unit per 10,000 square feet. No more than four (4) residential units per
' building shall be allowed and no structure shall exceed 45 feet in height. This policy
shall apply only to vacant unplatted lands as of January, 1992. No development of a
commercial nature will be allowed in the inlet hazard areas and residential development
' in such areas shall be restricted to single-family structures on existing lots, all subject
to the permitting requirements of the Coastal Area Management Act.
' This policy does not prevent the rebuilding of a structure which existed as of January
1, 1992, which may be destroyed in the future, as long as the rebuilding complies with
the then current CAMA requirements and other current building regulations.
' -- The Town of North Topsail Beach recognizes the importance of its frontal dunes and
related vegetation, which add stability and natural protection to the barrier island. As

a general policy, the town does not want to see any development which will destroy
these dunes.
-- The Town of North Topsail Beach believes that only constructed "walkways" or
crosswalks should be used to cover over the dunes.
-- The town will consider a Dune Protection Ordinance which will contain requirements
for prospective developers to minimize disturbance of the dunes. The town will also
initiate a local dune revegetation/replanti ng program and offer dune plants to the
citizenry. The town will encourage the development of a volunteer restoration effort.
Coastal Wetlands
-- It is North Topsail Beach's policy that the first priority for uses of land in these areas
should be the allowance of uses which promote "conservation" of the sensitive areas,
with conservation meaning the lack of imposition of irreversible damage to the
wetlands.
Outstanding Resource Waters
-- The density and types of development in the 575' ORW impact area should be
regulated in order to protect the quality of the waters. At minimum, state imposed
standards should be adhered to.
-- Commercial or recreational marinas abutting ORWs are considered to be an undesirable
use of land and waters in the ORW area.
-- Consistent with policy statements for protection of estuarine waters and shorelines,
commercial agricultural and/or aquacultural operations are undesirable uses in the ORW
impact areas.
Bulkhead Construction
- In North Topsail Beach, the preferred shoreline erosion control measures shall be the
planting of natural vegetation and relocation of structures. Shoreline erosion control
structures may result in the immediate or eventual loss of coastal wetlands, and may
cause adverse impacts on the value and enjoyment of adjacent properties or public
access to and use of the estuarine beach. Such shoreline erosion control structures
include, but are not limited to, wooden retaining walls; sea walls; rock or rubble
revetments; wooden, metal, concrete, or rock jetties; breakwaters; and concrete filled
sandbags. Before such structure can be placed in the estuarine shoreline AEC or in the
estuarine water AEC, it must be determined through the permitting process that the
proposed structure is consistent with all policies contained within this plan and with all
CAMA standards for this type of activity.
-- North Topsail Beach opposes bulkhead construction.
4

Sea Level Rise
' -- North Topsail Beach will continuously monitor sea level rise and revise as necessary all
local building and land use related ordinances to establish setback standards, long-term
land use plans, density controls, buffer vegetation protection requirements, and building
designs which will facilitate the movement of structures.
-- North Topsail Beach opposes the construction of bulkheads along estuarine shorelines
' to protect structures and property from rising sea level.
Maritime Forests
' -- However, North Topsail Beach desires to control the development of maritime forest
areas.
' -- Although there are no specially designated maritime forests in North Topsail Beach,
there are significant amounts of natural maritime vegetation which is important to the
' area's stabilization. The town believes that all development should be done in a
manner which will minimize disruption of the natural maritime vegetation.
Productive Agricultural Lands
-- There are no productive agricultural lands found in North Topsail Beach; therefore, no
policy statement is necessary.
Aguaculture Activities
-- North Topsail Beach opposes any aquaculture activities within its planning jurisdiction.
Residential, Commercial, and Industrial Development Impacts on Resources
1 A N A 7Hstandards, -- Residential and commercial development which meets 5 NCAC use
North Topsail Beach zoning requirements, where applicable the Stump Sound ORW
' Management Plan, and the policies contained in this plan will be allowed in estuarine
shoreline, ORW estuarine shoreline, estuarine water, and public trust areas. Industrial
development will be prohibited within North Topsail Beach.
' -- North Topsail Beach opposes the construction of any signs, except for regulatory signs,
in the coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public trust areas. (Note: This must be
coordinated with the Resource Protection policies.)
Off -Road Vehicles
-- North Topsail Beach allows off -road vehicles in the beach area, under the terms of a
' town ordinance adopted October 3, 1990. Specific regulations are updated annually.

E. ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT POLICY STATEMENTS
Sewer System
-- North Topsail Beach opposes the rationing of new sewer taps within the town's
planning jurisdiction.
Energy Facility Siting and Development
-- In the event that offshore oil or gas is discovered, North Topsail Beach will not oppose
drilling operations and onshore support facilities in Onslow County for which an
Environmental Impact Statement has been prepared with a finding of no significant
impact on the environment. North Topsail Beach supports and requests full disclosure
of development plans, with mitigative measures that will be undertaken to prevent
adverse impacts on the environment, the infrastructure, and the social systems of
Onslow County. North Topsail Beach also requests full disclosure of any adopted
plans. Offshore drilling and the development of onshore support facilities in Onslow
County may have severe costs for the town and county as well as advantages. The
costs of supporting infrastructure/services and costs for all land and ocean cleanup
must be borne by the company(ies).
Redevelopment of Developed Areas
-- The town will not spend any local funds in order to acquire unbuildable lots but will
accept donations of such unbuildable lots. North Topsail Beach will work with any
owners who may have to move any threatened structures to safer locations. The town
will support reconstruction only at densities specified by current zoning regulations.
-- There are some older, developed areas within North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction. The
town encourages and supports redevelopment of these areas for purposes of land use
compatibility and aesthetics. However, it is the town's general policy that
redevelopment, like new development, be conducted according to existing development
guidelines as reflected in the town's zoning, subdivision, and flood damage prevention
ordinances.
Types and Locations of Desired Industry
-- North Topsail Beach does not view industrial development as either desirable or
compatible with the character and capacity of the town.
Shoreline Access
-- North Topsail Beach recognizes the importance of the public having the right to "share"
the access to the public trust waters, including the ocean beach and the sound side
waters. As a matter of policy, the town will continue to support the exploration,
assessment, and development of both beach and sound side access opportunities to
the public to enjoy.
t�

Commitment to State and Federal Programs
' -- There are a number of state and federal programs which are important to North Topsail
Beach. Many, such as erosion control programs of the USDA Soil Conservation
Service; NCDOT road and bridge maintenance, repair, and replacement programs;
' estuarine beach and waterfront access development programs; and CAMA enforcement
programs, etc., provide valuable direct benefits to the town. The Town of North
Topsail Beach will continue to support federal and state programs which provide
' benefits and services to the town and its citizens.
Assistance in Channel Maintenance
i-- The Corps of Engineers is normally responsible for dredging or maintaining the Atlantic
Intracoastal Waterway within North Topsail Beach's jurisdiction. The town supports
' the maintenance activities along the Intracoastal Waterway as conducted by the Corps.
Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired/Land Use Trends
' (a) Housing
-- To provide an area for mobile homes.

�J
APPENDIX II
TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
' PREPARATION OF LAND USE PLAN
FISCAL YEAR 1996-97
' The Town of North Topsail Beach has received a FY96-97 Coastal Area Management Act grant
for the update of its existing Land Use Plan. The update will occur in two phases. Phase I will
be accomplished in FY96-97 and will include those portions of the plan which address existing
' population, housing and economy; existing land use; development constraints/land suitability;
development constraints/public facilities; projected demand for development; and redevelopment
issues. Phase II will be accomplished in FY97-98 and will include the policies statement section
of the plan. Adequate citizen participation in the development of the Plan is essential to the
preparation of a document responsive to the needs of the citizens of North Topsail Beach. To
ensure such input, the following citizen participation program will be utilized by the town in
Phase I. An additional citizen participation plan will be adopted for Phase II.
The North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan Committee will work with the town's planning
' consultant in Phase I to ensure that the final product will survey existing land use, recommend
strategies/actions, and identify Areas of Environmental Concern. The committee is composed
' of the following members: Ginny Hillyer (Chairperson), Rodney Knowles (Vice Chair), Otis
Sizemore (Secretary), Wade Chestnut, Marilyn Christoph, Pat Dempsey, Marge Lombardo,
Leland Newsome, Bill O'Donnell, Bill Parr, Priscilla Royman, Geraldean Walker, and Stuart
' Wishard.
The plan will focus on issues expected to occur during the planning period, including
infrastructure needs, housing needs, transportation planning, and environmental. A copy of the
schedule and scope of work for Phase I is attached. The following schedule will be utilized:
1. August, 1996 -- Conduct initial meeting with the Town of North Topsail Beach Land Use
Plan Committee
' 2. January, 1997 -- Adopt the Citizen Participation Plan.
3. February, 1997 -- The Land Use Plan Committee will conduct a public information
' meeting, which will be advertised in a local newspaper. The town will specifically
discuss the policy statements contained in the 1991 Town of North Topsail Beach Land
Use Plan. The significance of the policy statements to the CAMA land use planning
process shall be described. The process by which the Town of North Topsail Beach will
solicit the views of a wide cross-section of citizens in the development of the updated
policy statements will be explained. At this meeting, the Consultant will conduct an
' issues identification discussion. This will provide an opportunity early in the planning
process for the public to participate in issue identification.

I
3. Febuary/June, 1997 -- Complete identification of existing land use problems, develop '
socioeconomic base data, and review community facilities needs. Continue preparation
of the draft Phase I Land Use Plan and conduct meetings with the North Topsail Beach '
Land Use Plan Committee.
4. July, 1997 -- Present complete draft sections of Phase I to the North Topsail Beach Land '
Use Plan Committee.
5. August, 1997 -- Review draft Land Use Plan with Board of Aldermen, conduct a public '
information meeting for review of the draft of Phase I, and submit draft of completed
Phase I to the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources staff for review
and comment.
6. Following receipt of Coastal Resources Commission comments (estimate October, 1997)
-- Present proposed Phase I to Board of Aldermen for adoption. ,
All meetings of the Town of North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan Committee and Board of
Aldermen at which the update of the Land Use Plan will be discussed will be advertised in a
local newspaper in a non -legal ad section. In addition, public service announcements will be
mailed to local radio stations and posted in the Town Hall. All meetings will be open to the
public. The town will encourage and consider all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural
viewpoints. No major non-English speaking groups are known to exist in North Topsail Beach.
Any questions concerning this Citizen Participation Plan should be referred to the Town
Manager at [phone]. The town does not have a TDD # for the hearing impaired.
12/19/96

'
REVISED
TOWN OF NORTH TOPSAIL BEACH
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION PLAN
PREPARATION OF LAND USE PLAN
'
FISCAL YEAR 1996-97 AND 1997-98
The Town of North Topsail Beach has received an extension of its FY96-97 Coastal Area
Management Act grant for the update of its existing Land Use Plan. The update has two phases.
Phase I was accomplished in FY96-97 and includes those portions of the plan which address
existing population, housing and economy; existing land use; development constraints/land
suitability; development constraints/public facilities; projected demand for development; and
' redevelopment issues. Phase II will be accomplished in FY97-98 and will include the policies
statement section of the plan. Adequate citizen participation in the development of the Plan is
essential to the preparation of a document responsive to the needs of the citizens of North
' Topsail Beach. To ensure such input, the following citizen participation program will be utilized
by the town in Phase H.
' The North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan Committee will work with the town's planning
consultant in Phase II to ensure that policies are prepared which respond to the 15A NCAC 7B
planning guidelines. The committee is composed of the following members: Ginny Hillyer
(Chairperson), Rodney Knowles (Vice Chair), Otis Sizemore (Secretary), Wade Chestnut,
Marilyn Christoph, Pat Dempsey, Marge Lombardo, Bill O'Donnell, Bill Parr, Priscilla
Royman, Geraldean Walker, and Stuart Wishard.
' Phase II will focus on the development of policies to address issues expected to occur during the
planning period, including infrastructure needs, housing needs, transportation planning, and
' environmental protection. A copy of the schedule and scope of work for Phase II is attached.
The following schedule will be utilized:
r1. August, 1997 -- Adopt the Citizen Participation Plan.
2. July/December, 1997 -- Complete the draft policy statement section and Land
' Classification Map. Conduct meetings with the North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan
Committee for review of the draft plan.
' 3. December, 1997 -- Present complete draft sections of Phases I and II to the North
Topsail Beach Land Use Plan Committee.
' 4. January, 1998 -- Review draft Land Use Plan with Board of Aldermen, conduct a public
information meeting for review of the draft of Phases I and II, and submit draft of
' completed plan to the Department of Environment, Health and Natural Resources staff
for review and comment.

5. Following receipt of Coastal Resources Commission comments (estimate April, 1998)
-- Present proposed plan to Board of Aldermen for adoption.
All meetings of the Town of North Topsail Beach Land Use Plan Committee and Board of
Aldermen at which the update of the Land Use Plan will be discussed will be advertised in a
local newspaper in a non -legal ad section. In addition, public service announcements will be
mailed to local radio stations and posted in the Town Hall. All meetings will be open to the
public. The town will encourage and consider all economic, social, ethnic, and cultural
viewpoints. No major non-English speaking groups are known to exist in North Topsail Beach.
Any questions concerning this Citizen Participation Plan should be referred to the Town
Manager at [phone]. The town does not have a TDD # for the hearing impaired.
rev. 7/29/97