Land Use Plan-1980

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PROPERTY OF
DIVISION OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT
PLEASE DO NOT REMOVE
SOUTHERN SHORES
Land Use Plan
AUGUST, 1980

TOWN OF SOUTHERN SHORES
TOWN COUNCIL
Kern Pitts ---Mayor
Charles Leet
Katherine Keenan
Harold Via
John Wiley
LAND USE PLAN TASK FORCE
Planning Board Advisory Group
Robert Trost ---Chairman Homer Althouse
Mary Alexander Nelson Bortz
Robert Andrews Donald Gott
Mickey Hayes Arthur Peterson
George McIntosh Alan Rodeheffer"
Virginia Ross.
David Stick
Consultants
Coastal Consultants, Ltd.
Southern Pines, N.C.
The preparation of this report 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 Coastal Management, National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pa e
FORE!JARD. . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 1
NATURE OF THE COMMUNITY . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 2
TERRAIN . . . . . . . . . . .
. 5
MAN-MADE�CHANGES* .".
5
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE . . . . . . . .
7
ROADS .AND WATERWAYS . . . . . . . . . . .
. 8
FACILITIES AND SEkVICES . . . . . . .
9
POPULATION . . . . .
10
EMERGING ISSUES .
11
COMMUNITY GOALS .
13
PLAN DEVELOPMENT ... . . .
. 14
POLICY FORMULATION . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 16
RESOURCE PROTECTION . . . . . . . . . . .
. 16
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN . .
16
Ocean Hazards Areas . . . . . . . .
. 17
The Estuarine System . . . . .
. 18
AREAS OF SPECIAL CONCERN NOT COVERED BY CAMA
20
WATER QUALITY . . . . . .
. 21
HURRICANE AND FLOOD EVACUATION . . . . . .
24
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT . . . . . .
. 25
LAND UTLIZATION . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 25
INLAND WATERWAYS (LAGOONS) . . . . . . ...
. 26
SOUND AND OCEAN D!ATERS . . . . . . .
. 27
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY.DEVELOPMENT . . . .
. 29
ZONING . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. 29

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ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIES . . . . . . . ... . .
33
COMMUNITY SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . . . .
35
ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION . . . . . . . . . .
40
GROWTH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
44
BOUNDARY DEVELOPMENT . ... . . . . . . . . . .
44
COORDINATION AND COOPERATION . . . .. . . . .
45
ANNEXATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
46
RECREATION . . . . . . . ... . . . . . . . .
46
CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
47
POLICY SUMMARY . .. • • . . . . . . . . . .
49
LAND CLASSIFICATION . . . . . . ... . . . .
56
REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..
59
TOWN ORDINANCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
60
ENFORCEMFP.!T OF LAND USE REGULATIONS . . . . . . . . . .
63
SELECTED RESOLUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
64
STATE LICENSES AND PERMITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
66.
FEDERAL LICENSES AND PERMITS . . . .. . . . . . . . . . .
68
MONITORING OF LAND USE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION . ... . . .
70
MAPS
MAP A - EXISTING LAND USE
MAP B - LAND CLASSIFICATION
MAP C - SOIL RATING FOR ON -LOT SEWAGE
DISPOSAL USE
MAP D -.POLICY KEY MAP
SUNIfOjiRY........... ................................
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FOREWORD
The Town of Southern Shores has prepared this initial Land Use.
Plan to assist the Town Council and its successors, the citizens of
Southern Shores, and,the state, federal and county governments in making
decisions concerning natural resources, facilities, services, and
growth of the Town.
This plan is intended to be used as a guide for decision -making
and the development of policies to be.implemented in the next ten years,
but it serves also as a foundation for longer range planning.
It is important to emphasize that the Town is still in its
" formative stage having come into existence only in 1979. This is its
.10 first. effort to set forth comprehensively a view of its .problems, alter-
natives, policy guides and implementing strategies. The Town has sought
in its first year to enact as many basic ordinances as feasible, establish
a functioning town organization and tax structure, and address longer -
range problems in an orderly manner. It has solicited - and received
community support for its efforts. There are, however, practical limits -
time, staff resources, resident and non-resident acceptance, and internal
considerations such as the community control of properties by citizen
organizations that preclude positive assertions and hasty actions. Such
.t circumstances, in a democratic society, require evolutionary processes
of study, research, discussion, compromise, and community endorsement
before they can be translated into viable actions.

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Changes in life style, economy, population, areas of citizen
concern, and exterior pressures, will in time make this
plan outdated. At the same time the very nature of local government,
almost invariably resulting in present officials being replaced by
other individuals unacquainted with this current planning process, calls
for special efforts to ensure a high degree of continuity.
Planning is a continuing process, and with or without future CAMA
sponsorship it is essential that this plan be reviewed and revised
regularly.
Copies of the plan will be provided to all elected officials and
individuals appointed to the Planning Board and similar Town bodies.
If possible, a synopsis will be provided to every Southern Shores
property owner.
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NATURE OF THE COMMUNITY'
The process by which Southern Shores has been transformed during
a period of a third of a century from zero population to municipality,
status is unique among Outer Banks communities.)
It began in 1947 with acquisition by a single development company
of all of what was to become the Town of Southern Shores; 2,600 acres,
extending from ocean to sound for a distance of four miles on the North
.Banks above Kitty Hawk.
The original development concept emphasized low density family -
oriented residential use; extensive setting asi.de of parks, beaches,
boat harbors, overlooks and other open space; protection or preserva-
tion of the extensive natural forest growth, dune formations, and even
.representative swamps and marshlands; and slow, carefully planned growth.
In short, the goal was to create an informal environment in a natural
setting, rather than a conventional subdivision.
People who liked the development concept were attracted to the
community and they purchased building sites for summer use or permanent
residence here instead of elsewhere on the coast. Review of archi-
tectural plans was an essential element in creating a community in
which aesthetics were an. important consideration, and for that reason
property owners were brought into the architectural review process
early on.
As Southern Shores grew, the property owners and residents
1 (Notes refer to references on page 59)

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gradually assumed more and more responsibility and authority from the
developing Kitty.Hawk Land Company in matters affecting their homes,
neighborhood.and life style. By 1970, an informal property owners r
organization was serving in.an'�impor.tant advisory capacity; by 19752
this had been transformed into a more formal Southern Shores Civic
Association; and between then and the incorporation of the Town of
Southern Shores in 1979, the Civic Association had acquired .title to
roads, beaches, open areas and 'public facilities.'
Incorporation of the Town came about only after residents and
other.property owners petitioned for it, having clearly expressed a
desire for minimal government minimal town services, and thus minimal
taxation. Volunteers performed much work for which other towns hire em-
ployees, including service in the volunteer fire department, clean-up
after storms, maintenance and beautification of common areas, and street Y
repairs.
Close cooperation between the elected Town officials, the Civic
Association and the developer continues. Each plays an important and
generally well-defined role in maintaining the Southern Shores environ-
ment. Representatives of the three meet periodically as a joint
community task force to discuss and allocate responsibility in matters
of.mutual or possibly overlapping concern.
With this history, so different from many coastal communities in
which development was undertaken on a piecemeal basis by dozens and
even hundreds of individual property owners, the preparation of a com- 1.
prehensiyve land use plan calls for a unique approach. The great majority
of Southern Shores people like their community the way it is, and their
main concern is how to keep it that way in the face of inevitable future

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population growth. -
TERRAIN
The natural terrain of the Town of Southern Shores varies so --
widely that an.early visitor, passing from the oceanfront across the
high sand hills into dense forests described the sudden metamorphosis
as being akin to "entering another world." A high and well stabilized
oceanfront dune ridge, wider than sand dune formations on most parts of.
the coast, extends the full four miles, with the crest an average of a
hundred feet or so back from the high water mark.. To the west of the
.dune line is the so-called back beach, relatively level, sparsely
vegetated and considerably lower than the oceanfront dunes. It extends
.for an average of a quarter of a mile before rising gradually to the
tops of high,.partially vegetated sand hills, some more than fifty feet
in elevation. These once migratory sand hills drop off precipitously
into a heavily forested area consisting of a succession of ridges and
valleys running north and south and extending almost to the shore of
Curr.ituck Sound and Ginguite Bay.
There is similar variation on the western boundary, with nearly
bare sand hills intruding on Currituck Sound in the northernmost half,
.mile; changing into high, heavily wooded ridges extending to the shore
of the Sound for the next mile or so; then a mix of ridges, swamps and
marshes bordering Ginguite Ray until finally, on the south, approaching
U.S. Highway 158, the terrain flattens out into marshland..
MAN-MADE CHANGES
Initial development, in 1947, consisted of constructing a mile
of.paved road northward from U.S. Highway 158 and parallel with the .

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ocean. Subsequently this conventional style development was continued.
for another two miles, and other roads were built in some of the hill
areas, for the most part following the natural contours. Meandering r
-ponds and lakes were dug in low areas throughout the back beach.
In 1957 a radical departure in development methods was applied
to the remaining mile of oceanfrontage at the north end of Southern
Shores. Here, in an entity named Seacrest Village, winding roads
averaging a quarter mile in length extended eastward from the road built
by the State to connect Kitty Hawk with Duck, each one dead -ending in a
"T" in back of the oceanfront dune ridge. In the early 1960's develop-
ment of the soundside and interior areas was begun, a process in which
low.areas were dug out and converted to navigable water, or filled.
This process in time produced some six miles of "lagoons", and provided
hundreds of additional waterfront homesites. In the mid-1960's, the
Southern'Shores developers donated approximately 300 interior acres k
north of U.S. 158 to the non-profit Outer Banks Recreation Association
for construction of a golf course and related recreational facilities.
At the same time, roads were constructed to make accessible additional
hill areas, culminating in construction of a paved road to the top of
the highest hill in Southern Shores and construction of an overlook
parking area on the crest.
As the decade of the 19701.s began, approximately 1,000 acres of
the original 2,600 acres in Southern Shores still had not been -developed.
More than half ofthis, extending northward from U.S. 158 for nearly
two miles, and containing interior woodland, sand hills and some back
beach, was developed as an entity. within Southern Shores�in the mid-1970's
and named Chicahauk. Separate Chicahauk recreational and improvement

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associations were formed to deal with localized activities within the
new neighborhood. At that time three relatively large undeveloped
., areas remained,,,,,one in the southwest corner of Southern Shores, an-
other in the northwest corner on Currituck Sound, and the third in the:
wooded areaeast of the golf course. These were zoned for multi -family
use, with densities ranging from sixto ten units per acre. Subsequent
development.in these areas has been for single family residentialuse,
though the first multiple dwelling units are in the planning stage.
RECREATION AND OPEN SPACE
A variety of areas, developed or set aside by the developer for
use by community residents were turned over to the Southern Shores
Civic Association in 1977. They include some 35 ocean -accesses; a
mile of oceanfrontage in Seacrest Village, initially extending back
from the high water line a distance of_100 feet; an oceanfront bathing
beach, 300 feet wide and approximately a quarter of a mile deep,.with
paved access roadway and parking area; a bathing beach and picnic area
on Currituck Sound; a marina and boat launching area at the mouth.of
Ginguite Bay; Hillcrest Overlook; a so-called "Village Green" on Duck
Woods Trail at the intersection with U.S. 158; plus a number of other
small.open areas. (See Map D)
Additionally, some.140.acres in Chicahauk, including the 13 acre
Cypress Swamp and extensive maritime forest areas, were retained in their
natural state for the use of Chicahauk property.owners..
The areas owned by Southern Shores Civic Association are available
for use by all Southern Shores property owners. Those in Chicahauk,
including recently constructed tennis courts, are reserved for members

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of the Chicahauk Recreational Club. The 18-hole Duck Woods:Golf
Course, swimming pool and tennis courts'are'the property of the Outer
BanksRecreation Association, a non-profit, non -stock membership.'cor-
poration. Although in the process of,incorporation the golf course
was excluded from the Town boundaries, the Town does exercise extra-
territorial jurisdiction over this tract and also Martins Point.
The Kitty Hawk Elementary School, located on the south edge of the
Town,.has a large open area and facili.ties which are often used by
Southern Shores residents.
ROADS AND WATERWAYS
In all instances where lots have been platted and sold, the
developer has constructed.hard-surfaced roads to state specifications,
though some of the.earlier roads were built to specifications'which'
applied at that time rather than the more stringent requirements of today'.
`.Approximately 22 miles of these roads were deeded to the Southern Shores'
Civic Association in 1977, and subsequently turned over to the Town of
Southern -Shores in 1979. The developer's rights to lagoons were trans
ferred'to the Southern Shores Civic'Association in 1978.
Externally,potential impacts from developments in Currituck and
Dare Counties are a concern of the Town. Widening the U.S. 158 By -Pass.
through Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills, -a proposal favored by those
communities, would severely affect residents of.Southern Shores-. Road
widening activities in Currituck County will also result in greatly
increased traffic flows through Southern Shores. The possibility of the State
taking o.f the"road from the 'Currituck County line to Corolla is:another trans-
portation concern..
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Since all of these activities are controlled by the State, the
Town seeks to increase its coordination with the State to -insure that
'+ mitigation of possible impacts to Southern Shores is fully considered
before actions are undertaken by the State.
FACILITIES AND SERVICES
The Southern Shores Fire Station is one of three owned by the
Kitty Hawk Fire Department; the others being in Collington and Kitty
Hawk Village. Operating under a central board of trustees and a depart-
ment chief, the Southern Shores company, with two trucks, is made up
entirely of volunteers from the Southern Shores area.
The Town offices, two small rooms in a building owned by the Kitty
Hawk Land Company, are located at the intersection of U.S. 158 Business
and Skyline Road. Town employees include a part-time Town Clerk, a part-
time Tax Collector, a part-time Building Inspector (and CAMA local
` permit officer) and a two -man police force.. The Police Department
operates out of the same building, sharing space with the Dare County
Sheriff's Department.
Since the inception of the Southern Shores community, water has
been provided by individual shallow wells for each residence. A central
water system for the beach area and Roanoke Island, scheduled to have
been completed early in 1979, will soon be operational Distribution
lines have been constructed in most areas'of Southern Shores, and the
primary storage tower for the north end of'the beach is located in
Southern Shores.
Individual septic tanks provide for waste disposal, and in all but
a relatively few sections of Southern Shores soil conditions are con-
sidered adequate.

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One utility, Carolina.Telephone and Telegraph,, has a sub -station
in Southern Shores.serving the north end of the,beach...The Community
was the first in Virginia Electric and Power Company's North Carolina._
district to go underground with powerlines, with the result that all
such installations since the mid-1960's have been underground. However,
the original beach area, part of Seacrest Village and the older hill
areasi are still served by overhead lines. VEPCO's main line to the
area is also overhead, resulting in"outages even in the areas serviced
by underground wires.
There are currently.two commercial buildings in the Town's
commercial zone. One is occupied by the developer and a real estate
office. The other, a professional building, contains a law office,
engineer and accountants.
The Kitty Hawk Elementary School, serving the beach area north Y
from the Nags Head -Kill Devil Hills line, is located in Southern Shores
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at the intersection of U.S. 158 and Dogwood Trail.
POPULATION
Southern Shores is similar to other beach communities in that a
number of dwellings in the Town are inhabited for seasonal use only.
However, the proportion of permanent residents is increasing rapidly,
with an approximate permanent population of 400 at this time. The
majority of the permanent residents are retirees, averaging only a r
little more than two persons to the household. In recent years, however,
younger couples have built or purchased homes, and most of them have
families. A growing number of people engaged in business activities
in communities outside of Southern Shores have chosen to make their homes

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here, as have some professional people, including doctors and lawyers.
The majority.of permanent homes are located in the .soundside and
woods areas, while most of the houses in the oceanfront,.back beach and
hill areas are seasonally occupied.
A typical beach house or cottage,
equal in size to an average permanent home occupied by a retired
couple, will accommodate six or eight people thus accounting for'an
estimated peak summer population of over 2,500.
EMERGING ISSUES
The fact that Southern Shores was developed as a single entity,
although on a piece -meal basis, over a third of a century has not
rendered it immune from a variety of typical coastal area problems
Today's environmental and developmental concerns emerged slowly, over
several decades, as government, land developers, and residents became
increasingly aware of the potential conflicts inherent in man's
increasing utilization of the fragile barrier islands for economic and
residential purposes.
As reflected throughout the land use document, some of the issues
which must be addressed range from potential flooding oflow-lying
areas and roadways,as occurred during the Ash Wednesday Storm of 1962,
to the.possibility of declining water quality in the man-made network
of canals and lagoons resulting from the lack of water movement.
Control of waterways and adjacent properties is now spread among,
several entities resulting in concern over protection of the resource
and proper utilization by the maximum number of people.
A major problem is the potential impact from exterior action,
such as the proposed extension of the State road to the Currituck Outer

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COMMUNITY GOALS
In open meetings, responses'to questionnaires, private conver-
sations, and .group.discussions-, the -citizens of Southern Shores have
made clear their goals,for the future of their community.
They want a continuation oflow density development; protection
and preservation of the natural forest growth; proper maintenance of
roads and waterways; low speed limits; strict.zoning enforcement;
minimal government; continuation of'a`viable civic association; as few
side effects as possible from the burgeoning resort areas surrounding
them; and good:water, fire protection and -police protection.
or
They do not want,or feel they need commercial facilities other
than those necessary to meet the basic needs of the community (e.g.,
physician, law office; drug store); high density development or high
rise construction; excessive traffic through their community; a central
sewage system; vehicles on their beaches or dunes; structured recrea-
tional facilities or complexes typical of so many retirement communi-
ties; or'too rapid growth.
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PLAN DEVELOPMENT
The.Town of Southern Shores is governed by a five -member Town
Council, with the Mayor elected from among -the Council members. The
initial..Town.Council was named -in a special act of the General As-
sembly.: The Act was ratified March 26, 1979., The Town Council took
office April..l, 1979,';and gave early priority to, land use matters.
They established a Planning Board and Board of Adjustment; adopted
zoning, subdivision regulations and a building code; and passed an
ordinance implementing.extra-territorial authority.,.
Responsibility for developing this land use plan was delegated by
the Council to the Southern Shores Planning Board, and a contract was
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entered'into with Coastal Consultants, Ltd., to assist in the prepara- "
tion of the plan. The.fact that Coastal Consultants, -Ltd., was con-. ►►
currently -working with the other municipalities on the Outer -Banks,
(Flags Head and Kill Devil Hills) and with Currituck County in developing
or revising land use plans provided a unique opportunity for inter-
governmental coordination.
From its inception, the keystone of the development of Southern.
Shores Land Use Plan.has been public participation. The initial meeting
designed to solicit citizen input on issues was attended by over 50 „
percent, of the permanent residents. At this meeting each individual
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was offered an opportunity to voice concerns.
A Citizens Advisory Committee was appointed to assist in land use
plan development. It consisted of individuals who had served formerly

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as chairmen of the Civic Association, three members of the initial Town
Council including the first Mayor and Mayor Pro-tem, and other citizens
with experience critical to development of the plan.
The Planning Board and the Advisory Committee constituted a task
force which met regularly with the planning consultants over a period
of four months. A questionnaire was prepared and distributed with the
assistance of the Civic Association, resulting in responses from more
than half of all property owners, including most of the permanent
residents.15 In general the answers to questions in the land use
questionnaire paralleled the results of three prior samplings.of opinions
among property owners conducted in recent years,_ and provided a firm
base for task force deliberations on community issues and long range
goals.
Individual members of the Task Force and the consultants
developed discussion papers (see references section). Each of these
subjects was studied and discussed in detail until a consensus emerged.:
Conclusions were then developed into policies and, where appropriate,
implementation strategies outlined.
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POLICY FORMULATION
This section provides the rationale for and-statement'of•Town policies: -
Where feasible, implementation plans are included. Policies are grouped
according to land use planning guideline categories of
- Resource Protection
Resource Production and Management
- Economic and Community Development
- Continuing Public Participation
A summary listing of policies is contained on page 49.
RESOURCE PROTECTION
AREAS OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERN
The term Area of Environmental Concern, or AEC, is used in North
Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) to identify important
natural resources, both on land and on water, which could be damaged
irreparably if subjected to incompatible development activity.
The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) has identified thirteen
different types of AECs -- in four general categories -- spelling out
the significance and the basic management objectives for each, and has
encouraged local governments to recommend those types of development, k
or use, which they consider appropriate in the AECs within their.
jurisdiction.

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Southern Shores AECs fall into two general categories, those_
located on the Town's eastern boundary in immediate proximity to the
Atlantic Ocean in what has been designated Ocean Hazard Areas; and
those located near the Town's western boundary in immediate proximity
to Currituck Sound and Ginguite Bay, and their tributaries, in what has
been designated The Estuarine System.
Ocean Hazards Areas
Ocean Erodible Areas
In Southern Shores two AECs occur within the general Ocean Hazard
zone. The first is Ocean Erodible Areas, in which there exists a sub-
stantial possibility of excessive erosion and.si,gnificant shoreline
fluctuation. Ocean Erodible Areas cover the entire four miles of -
Southern Shores oceanfront, extending landward to a point 95 feet from
the first line of stable vegetation adjacent to the ocean. In general
the.Ocean Erodible AEC in Southern Shores is a band extending from the
waters of the Atlantic Ocean to or slightly west of the crest of the
oceanfront dune system.
POLICY 1. THE BASIC OBJECTIVE WITHIN THE OCEAN ERODIBLE
AREAS IS TO MAINTAIN THE LINE OF OCEANFRONT SAND DUNES BY
PROTECTING THE VEGETATION WHICH STABILIZES THE DUNE SYSTEM.
The Town currently implements this policy by prohibiting the con-,..
x struction of buildings within the Ocean Erodible Areas; by enforcing an
ordinance banning use of off-road.vehicles; by authorizing the construc-
tion of wooden walkways and steps to the beach, as well as elevated
observation platforms; and finally by authorizing the installation of sand
fences in areas where erosion has occured.

High Hazard Flood Areas
The second type of AEC within the Southern Shores Ocean Hazard
Zone is High Hazard Flood Areas, which are subject to high velocity
waters, including but not limited to hurricane wave wash. In general
this AEC extends westward a distance of between 150 and 300 feet from ..
the Ocean Erodible AEC, the exact boundaries being the eastern margin
of.Ocean Boulevard in the southern two miles of the Town, the eastern
margin of the Seacrest Village "T's" in the northern mile, and else-
where a line projected between these two (See Map D).
POLICY 2. WITHIN THE HIGH HAZARD FLOOD AREAS THE TOWN WILL
ENFORCE THE STANDARDS PRESCRIBED BY THE FEDERAL INSURANCE
ADMINISTRATION.
This policy'is implemented through the Southern Shores building •
permit-process,'as specified in appropriate Town ordinances and enforced
by the Town Building Inspector.
The Estuarine System
Estuarine Waters
All four of the individual AECs falling under the general classi-
fication of the Estuarine System are to be found in or connected with a
the Southern Shores sound area.
Currituck Sound, which extends along the northern one-third of
the Town's western boundary, is the only affected AEC in the Estuarine
Waters classification. Since no part of Currituck Sound is within the

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boundaries of the Town of Southern Shores, the,Town has no jurisdiction
over this AEC, but does have management responsibility over.this area
in'the estuarine shoreline category.
Public Trust Waters
Ginguite Bay is classified as a Public Trust Waters AEC, but as
in the case of Currituck Sound no part of the AEC is within the Town
boundaries. Southern Shores does have jurisdiction, however, over the
network of navigable lagoons and canals which connect with Ginguite Bay,
and which are also classified as Public Trust platers
POLICY 3. THE TOWN WILL WORK WITH THE APPROPRIATE STATE AND
FEDERAL AGENCIES IN PROTECTING THE INTEGRITY OF PUBLIC TRUST
WATERS WITHIN SOUTHERN SHORES.
This policy is currently implemented through the CAMA permit -
letting process as administered by the Town Building Inspector in his
capacity as the CAMA local permit officer. At the Town's request
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NO -WAKE speed limits are enforced by the N.C. Wildlife Resources
Commission.
Coastal Wetlands
Coastal wetlands, or marshes, are located in an area adjacent to
Ginguite Bay in the southernmost half mile or so of the Town.
POLICY 4. THE TOWN RECOGNIZES THE IMPORTANCE OF COASTAL
WETLANDS AS A BREEDING GROUND FOR FISH, SHRIMP AND CERTAIN
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ANIMALS, BIRDS AND PLANTS. NO SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY
i IS CURRENTLY PERMITTED -WITHIN THIS AEC.
Implementation ofthe policy is through the CAMA permit -letting
process.

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Estuarine Shorelines
All of the -several miles of 'interior lagoons and canals in
Southern Shores empty into Ginguite Bay rather than into Currituck _
Sound, and thus are classed as Public Trust Waters. Their shorelines,
therefore, are Public'Trust Water shorelines, rather than Estuarine.
Shorelines, and are not classified as AECs.
Thus the only Estuarine Shoreline AECs in Southern Shores are
those bordering on Currituck Sound, with a total length,of less than a
mile and a half. This Estuarine Shoreline AEC covers a strip 75 feet
landward'from the mean water mark in which the construction of septic
tanks and drain fields is carefully monitored, and those contemplating
construction are forewarned about the dangers of possible erosion.
POLICY 5. THE TOWN WORKS CLOSELY WITH THE COUNTY HEALTH..
DEPARTMENT AND WITH THE STATE OFFICE OF COASTAL MANAGEMENT.
IN MANAGING ESTUARINE SHORELINES.
In implementing the policy the Southern Shores Building Inspector
notifies all property owners planning construction within the AEC of
the septic tank requirements, and of the potential for soundfront
erosion, before issuing a building permit.
AREAS.OF SPECIAL CONCERN NOT COVERED BY CAMA
The people of Southern Shores are concerned about the destruction
Ir
ti
of other natural resources, including but not limited to vegetation,
animals, birds, geological formations, and an interior swamp and lake ,
area known as the Cypress Pond. In the course of developing this CAMA
land useplan careful consideration was given to the possibility of
requesting AEC designation for areas which might qualify under the

21
general heading of Fragile Coastal Natural Resource Areas, but it was
determined that no section of Southern Shores contains the specific
features to qualify.12
POLICY 6. IT IS THE POLICY OF THE TOWN TO IDENTIFY A
VARIETY OF NATURAL RESOURCES WHICH DO NOT QUALIFY -FOR AEC
STATUS UNDER CAMA: TO ENCOURAGE THE RETENTION OF FOREST
GROWTH AND NATURAL PLANT COMMUNITIES, INCLUDING THE
PROTECTION OF MARITIME FOREST AREAS: TO MAINTAIN A
SUITABLE HABITAT FOR ANIMALS AND BIRDS INDIGENOUS TO THE
AREA: AND TO DISTURB THE NATURAL TERRAIN AS LITTLE AS
POSSIBLE.
The Town has begun implementing this policy by designating the
Town as a Bird Sanctuary; by an ordinance prohibiting the use of fire-
arms within Town limits; and by another ordinance prohibiting off -road
vehicle use. Until the new Town is able to develop other appropriate.
ordinances and means of enforcement, the Town Council and the Civic
Association are encouraging citizens to protect such.resources on a
voluntary basis. A program of informing and educating citizens with
regard to such resources is being developed, with the help of the Dunes
of Dare.Garden Club and other groups.
WATER QUALITY$
Three issues are involved in the assessment of water quality in
• Southern Shores. the first issue is the availability of potable and
palatable water for household consumption. The second issue is the
effect of individual septic systems on .the quality.of water in lagoons,
ponds, canals, and adjacent bodies.of water. This second issue also
involves an analysis of a need -for a public wastewater treatment facil
ity. The third issue is the potential for accumulation of l.arge quan-
tities of water in low areas as the result of excessive rainfall or
storm flooding.

22
Water for Household Consumption
In the past, water for household consumption has been secured
from individual wells on each lot. .Southern Shores voters actively
supported a county bond issue to provide a central water system with
wells on Roanoke Island, and after nearly two years of delay full
operation is expected.by the end of the year. The major overhead
storage tank for the northern end of the Dare Beaches is located in
Southern Shores, insuring adequate pressure for distribution. The
central water system is projected to satisy the requirements of the
County through 1990. However, use of wells for drinking water has
not caused any problems in the.past and it is not anticipated that
they would cause any problems in the future.
POLICY 7. DRINKING WATER FROM WELLS AND SURFACE WATERS IN
THE AREA ARE BELIEVED TO BE FREE OF HARMFUL CONTAMINANTS.
THERE HAS BEEN NO INDICATION THAT HARMFUL WATER QUALITY
PROBLEMS EXIST IN THE COMMUNITY.
The County Health Department confirms the satisfactory quality of
tap water at most rental housing units in the Town on an annual basis.
The Town`has initiated a quality testing program for surface water
(ponds, lagoons, bay, sound) to confirm the satisfactory quality of
these waters as well.
k
Need for Central Wastewater Treatment
In making an analysis of wastewater`treatment and disposal'facili
ties, extensive data has'been accumulated from a 197V.Soil Survey of the

23
Outer Banks made by the.U.S. Soil Conservation Service. Additional'
information and advice has been secured from the N.C. Department of.
Human Resources, Division of Health Services; the N.C. Shellfish
Sanitation Commission; and the Dare County Health Department.7,8
The conclusions reached are that in most developed areas of.,
Southern Shores the soils are suitable for individual septic systems;
in the few instances where soils are questionable, septic system design
and special soil preparation can.render.the sites acceptable; and the
large lot size in Southern Shores (averaging over. 20,000 sq._ft..)
minimizes potential problems of contamination from individual septic
systems. Multi -family development requires a public or community
disposal. system.
POLICY 8. DUE TO THE LARGE LOTS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT,
THE DESIGN OF SUBDIVISIONS WHICH HAS LEFT THE MORE UNFAVOR-
ABLE SOILS IN OPEN SPACE, AND THE GENERALLY FAVORABLE S`1ILS
FOR ON -LOT SEWAGE DISPOSAL, THE TOWN WILL BE ABLE. TO
ACCOMODATE FUTURE GRO14TH ON SEPTIC SYSTEMS. IT IS NOT
ANTICIPATED THAT A`PUBLIC SEWER SYSTEM WILL BE`NECESSARY.
This subject is monitored and implemented by''the.Dare County,Health
Department and the Town Building Inspector. Zoning regulations -specify
minimum lot sizes and require public or community systems for other
than single-family, detached dwellings.` Possible contamination.is
w monitored through a water quality testing program.
Accumulation of Water In Low Areas
The one area in Southern Shores with a potential for accumulation
of substantial quantities of water as the result of excessive rainfall

24
or storm overwash is:the back beach, which constitutes a basin between
the high oceanfront dune line and the even higher ridge of sandhills
extending the length of the community. During the Ash Wednesday Storm
of 1962 tremendous quantities of ocean water washed over the dunes and
accumulated in this -basin, innundating numerous residential lots and
rendering roads impassable.
POLICY 9. THE TOWN WILL SEEK REMEDIES TO AVERT FLOODING
SUCH AS THAT WHICH OCCURRED DURING THE ASH WEDNESDAY STORM.
Implementation of this policy has not begun, but the Town will,
during the current fiscal year,'request a cooperative study by the N.C.
Department of Transportation, the Soil Conservation Service, and the
Dare County -Health Department, to determine Whether the installation of
permanent drains to the ocean, or other methods of removing excess water
from overwash,are feasible.
HURRICANE AND FLOOD EVACUATION
Southern Shores participates in an overall Dare County Civil
Preparedness Evacuation Plan. The Town's.portion of the Plan was`
recently reviewed and evaluated and residents attended a briefing by
the Town Coordinator. While the Town feels comfortable that its portion
of the County plan is workable, there is a large degree of dependence on
other county governments and agencies and the efficiency of the total.
plan has not been tested.
Southern Shores'concerns in this area focus on the possibility of
bumper -to -bumper evacuee traffic from the north and the south converging
on the Town and the Wright Bridge with no opportunity for'Town evacuees
to break into the traffic stream. While a full-scalecevacuation exercise

25
is impractical, a plan of this type can be evaluated analytically.
POLICY 10. THE TOWM WILL RECOMMEND THAT THE COUNTY SPONSOR
AN ANALYTICAL EVALUATION OF THE DARE COUNTY EMERGENCY
EVACUATION PROCEDURES.
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
LAND UTILIZATION
The Town's resources are embodied in its residential character as
evidenced by historic growth, existing zoning, and future desires of its
property owners. The Town has no productive agricultural or commercial'
forest areas;'no known exploitable minerals nor commercial fisheries or
industrial potential. Aside from community commitments to husband and
manage its natural surroundings and man-made improvements, such as its
network of interior lagoons, the Town's limited area (2600 acres) pre-
cludes consideration of non-residential land use. Recreational uses
are those typified by the personal choices of individual residents:
boating, swimming, fishing,'bicycling, hiking and jogging, golf and
tennis. Except for summer rentals of privately -owned cottages, tourism,
as an -enterprise, is'nonexistent. Use of any type of motorized vehicles
on the beaches and dunes is prohibited by ordinance and enforced by
Town police.
POLICY 11. THE TOWN IS PRIMARILY A RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY
M AND THEREFORE DOES NOT DESIRE TO PROMOTE AGRICULTURE,
FORESTRY, MINING, FISHERIES$ INDUSTRY, ENERGY FACILITIES,
OR TOURIST -RELATED RECREATION.`
Evidences of-the'commitment to preserve the residential character

26
of the Town are expressed throughout the land use plan,and its policy
statements.
INLAND WATERWAYS (LAGOONS)
The western areas of the Town (woods and sound side) are inter-
laced.with a man-made network of approximately 6 miles of lagoons with
outlets on C'urr.ituck Sound and Ginguite Bay. Initially, these,lagoons
helped to drain low-lying swampy areas while providing, at the same
time, suitable building sites. Currently, 80 or.28 percent of the 290.
presently platted lagoon lots have been built upon.10
Constructed by the developers in the 1960's, the lagoons were
conveyed to the Southern Shores Civic Association in 1978 except for a
stretch of a.mile or so_within or bordering upon the Chicahauk sub-
division which is still held by the developer. Most of the."bottoms"
of the -canals are therefore presently owned by the Civic Association.,
Ownership of the lagoon banks resides with individual.property owners
except alongside several roads where the lagoon borders the Town.right-
of -way. Since these waters are navigable, various governmental agencies,
Federal and State, possess certain regulatory rights or controls over
the use or alteration of the lagoons. These agencies include.the Army
Corps of Engineers, Coastal Resources Commission, N.C. Dept. of Natural
Resources and Community Development, the N.C. Wildlife Commission, and
county health authorities. ,
This.picture is further clouded by the emergence of potential
problems associated with anticipated future greater use of the waterways
arising mainly from residential growth. These problems include: (a)
adequate water circulation and flushing; (b) contaminants affecting the

27
quality of water.; (c) siltation, erosion, and deterioration of embank-
ments; (d) growth of brush, trees, weeds along.the.banks and milfoil-:
and other aquatic growths and (e)..impact of animal life - nutria,
muskrats, etc.
Existing options appear unlikely,to resolve these problems. ;The
Civic Association has neither the resources.or authority to provide
adequate safeguards; individual property.owners likewise lack'the
resources, authority, or collective will to assure suitable protective
measures. Responsibilities of various government agencies are fractured
and segmentally limited to certain prescribed functions or authority.
Although difficult and complicated, the most viable alternative is for
the Town to seek proprietary rights over the canals within its borders.
Then by a series of steps, including measures already taken in matters
over which the Town has existing police power and continuing, after
acquirement -of proprietary rights, to work with community organizations
and governmental agencies toward the objective of obtaining maximum
Town control over the maintenance, preservation, and management of all
facets of the inland waterway network. This would include evaluation of
costs and methods -of funding.
SOUND AND OCEAN WATERS
Although the preceding discussion has focused upon inland waters,
somewhat similar basic problems exist as regards effective land use
safeguards along the approximately 8 miles of oceanfront and soundside
where privately owned lands border the waters. Currently, about 70
percent of oceanfront lots and 30 percent of soundside lots have been
10
built upon.In addition to matters of erosion, bulkheading, construc-

92
tion of docks/piers, milfoil growth in the -sound I -et c., these exposed
. waterfront areas pose other issues, primarily related to severe` -
storm contingencies which must be resolved on a long-term basis.
POLICY 12. THE TOWN WILL SEEK TO ACQUIRE AND MANAGE ALL
INLAND WATERWAYS (LAGOONS) CONNECTING WITH CURRITUCK SOUND
AND GINGUITE BAY FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING A SINGLE
TOWN ENTITY FOR THEIR MANAGEMENT.
POLICY 13. THE -TOWN WILL ENACT APPROPRIATE ORDINANCES
REGULATING SPECIFIC MATTERS PERTINENT TO THE CONTROL,
MANAGEMENT, AND PRESERVATION OF INLAND WATERWAYS AND THEIR.
USE (OR ABUSE) SUCH AS THE CONSTRUCTION OF PIERS,
BULKHEADS, BOAT OPERATIONS, NOISE, LITTER, AND POLLUTANTS.
POLICY 14. THE TOWN IN COOPERATION WITH ALL OTHER INTERESTED
PARTIES (SOUTHERN SHORES CIVIC ASSOCIATION, CHICAHAUK
IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION; KITTY HAWK LAND COMPANY) WILL
DEVELOP A LONG RANGE POLICY REGARDING THE PRESERVATION,
MAINTENANCE, AND MANAGEMENT OF ALL PROPERTIES BORDERING ON
ALL BODIES OF WATER - INLAND, SOUND, AND OCEAN. SUCH POLICIES
SHOULD CONSIDER CONTINGENCIES -LIKELY TO APrSE FROM
EMERGENCY CONDITIONS SUCH AS FLOODS, HURRICANES, AND STORMS.
The Town proposes to (a) undertake negotiations in 1981 with the
Southern Shores Civic Association for the conveyance of all inland
waterway rights to the Town; (b) create a Study Committee on Ocean, Inland
Waterway, and Soundside Management and Preservation Issues; and
(c) continue, as feasible, the further enactment of appropriate .

29
ordinances for the exercise of its police powers as regards water -
related matters of contamination, noise and litter, dock, bulkheading
and other construction activity abutting waterfront areas.
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
ZONING
Shortly after incorporation, the new -Town of Southern -Shores
adopted, with,minor changes, the Dare County Zoning Ordinance. This
action was mainly one of.expediency. State law provides that, a new
community has ninety days from the date of incorporation'to either
adopt the zoning ordinance under which it had been operating or adopt
a new zoning ordinance. If neither alternative were adopted.by the
end of the ninety day period the Town would be without a zoning
ordinance. Recognizing that a new zoning ordinance could not be drafted
and approved within ninety days, and that the alternative of operating
without a zoning ordinance was unacceptable, the Town adopted a modi-
fied Dare County ordinance. Because citizens of Southern Shores played
a major role in the initiation and writing of the original Dare County
ordinance, acceptance of the county ordinance was not difficult.
The Southern Shores Zoning Map (Map D) is a graphic illustration
of the desire for a single-family residential community with minimal
provision for multi -family and commercial.
Martins Point and the Outer Banks Recreation Association's Duck
Woods Golf Club are not part of Southern Shores. However, the Town does
exercise extraterritorial zoning and development jurisdiction over
these tracts.

30
The minimum lot size.permitted in the RS-1 and R-1 districts is
15,000 square feet. However, the average lot size in Southern -Shores
is over 20,000 square feet and the density of the developed areas -is' -
less than three dwelling units per acre.
i
No.multi-family districts have been sub -divided or developed as
multi family. Zoning regulations s`ipulate a public or community dis-
posal system as a requirement for multi -family development. The
eastern and southern.portions of tf-e RS-6 District; the western leg of
the RS-8 District; and, the northwest corner of the RS-10 District have
all been.sub-divided for single-family detached dwellings.
Zoning Issues
Throughout the process of land use plan development the citizens
of Southern Shores confirmed their desire for a low -density residential
community with minimum supporting commercial and multi -family develop-
ment. In Southern Shores low -density equates to single-family detached
dwellings,.with a density approximating three dwelling units per acre.
In spite of the general unanimity in the character of development
desired, issues arose in the following areas:
Housing mix - amount of multi -family desired
Commercial zone - size and permitted uses
Motels/hotels as a permitted use in the commercial district
Buffer zone between commercial and single-family residential
districts size and description.
Maximum building heights.
Housing Mix`
The residential.character of Southern Shores was a major factor in

31
attracting both resident and non-resident property owners. Current
provision for multi -family development in the RS-6, 8, and 10 districts
is acceptable. Any increase in multi -family districts is unacceptable.
POLICY 15.., THE TOWN DESIRES TO MAINTAIN A MIX OF RESIDENTIAL
ZONING. MULTI -FAMILY DISTRICTS ARE ACCEPTABLE AS CONSTITUTED
AND WILL NOT BE INCREASED.
Commercial Zone
The community is opposed to any increase in the size of the
Commercial Zone. ?he Town desires commercial uses that serve the
community and which the community needs. Some of the uses currently per-
mitted in the Commercial Zone do not fit these criteria (i.e. marinas,
boat sales, laundromats, cafeterias, etc.). Motels/hotels are discussed
in a subsequent paragraph.
POLICY 16. THE COMMERCIAL ZONE IS ACCEPTABLE AS CURRENTLY
CONSTITUTED AND WILL NOT BE INCREASED. USES PERMITTED IN
THE COMMERCIAL ZONE HILL BE ONLY THOSE THAT -SERVE THE
COMMUNITY OF SOUTHERN SHORES AND THAT THE CITIZENS DESIRE.
The Southern Shores Planning Board will, in 1981, revise the zoning
ordinance to insure that -permitted uses in the commercial zone are
consistent with this policy.
Motels/Hotels
The current zoning ordinance permits motels/hotels in the commer-
cial zone. Public sentiment is evenly divided on the need for motels/
hotels in Southern Shores 15 Alternatives are to leave zoning as it
is; do not permit motels/hotels in Southern Shores; or, provide for a

32
small motel/hotel zone in keeping with the criteria established in
POLICY 16.
Preliminary study and questionnaire results indicate that the -
preferred alternative would be a smaller, separate motel/hotel zone.
The most logical location for this zone is in the southeast -corner of
the Town in the vicinity of the old Southern Shores Motor Lodge (Map D).
POLICY 17. THE TOWN WILL RESTRICT MOTELS/HOTELS TO A
SEPARATE ZONE IN THE VICINITY OF THE OLD SOUTHERN SHORES
MOTOR LODGE.
The Planning Board will develop specific recommendations in the
1981 revision of the zoning ordinance.
Residential/Commercial Buffer Zone
The zoning ordinance provides that where the commercial district
adjoins an RS-1 district no commercial "building or other facility"
shall be located nearer than fifty feet to the boundary. The ordinance
also provides for a visual buffer. Neither these requirements nor the
definition of "buffer" are considered specific enough to enforce the
space and buffer requirements.. Additionally, over 50% of the
questionnaire respondents felt that the fifty foot separation was
insufficient.15
POLICY 18. OWNERS OF PROPERTY IN THE RS-1 DISTRICT ARE
ENTITLED TO VISUAL AND NOISE BUFFERS FROM COMMERCIAL
FACILITIES.'
Planning Board will recommend changes in the 1981 zoning ordinance
revision to insure implementation of this policy.
t

33
Maximum Building Height
All zoning districts have a height restriction of thirty-five
- feet. Provision is made for a variance in the case of structures such
as church steeples, flag poles, etc. Up to now few structures were
built up to this limit. Recent construction, taking advantage of the
full thirty-five feet, is inconsistent with existing structures and
has caused residents to question the desirability of a thirty-five foot
limit.. A conventional two-story house can be built within a thirty-
foot limit. .Where flood plain or lot topography considerations require
a.height in excess of thirty feet a variance can be granted.
POLICY 19. MAXIMUM BUILDING HEIGHT OF THIRTY FEET IS MORE'
CONSISTENT WITH COMMUNITY HOUSING STANDARDS THAN THE
CURRENTLY PERMITTED THIRTY-FIVE FEET..
Planning Board will implement this policy in the 1981 zoning .
ordinance revision.
ADMINISTRATIVE FACILITIESS
The Southern Shores Town Office is housed in two small rooms of
an old real estate office owned by the Kitty Hawk Land Co. (Map D ).
One room is occupied by the Town Clerk/Fiscal Officer and the other
by the Building Inspector. There is insufficient room for the -Tax
Collector and he is required to work out of his home. Working
conditions are such that it is difficult to carry on business in one.
office without disturbing the occupant(s) of the other.
The Town's two -man police force shares space in an adjoining room
which is a sub -station of the Dare County Sheriffs Department.
Meetings of the Town Council, Planning Board, etc., are held in
the Southern Shores Fire Station or the Kitty Hawk School.

34
Issues
In the case of administrative facilities three dependent issues
arise: (1) requirement for additional space, (2) location, (3)
financing.
Over one year's experience has proven that the current facilities
are inadequate, and a majority of the Town's property owners agree
that the current Town Office should be replaced by 1985.15 Alternatives
are: remain in th.e present location; expand the space in the present
building; or, construct a new building. Rental space is not available.
Considering that additional space in the building is not available, and
that ownership of the building, type of construction, and lack of avail-
able land operates against constructing an addition to the building;
the only viable alternative for resolution of the issue of .Town Office
space is anew building.
There are two feasible locations. The first is a parcel of.
Civic Association property known as the Village Green. (Map D) This
property is not centrally located and is not easily accessible during
the.Summer-season due to the heavy traffic on U.S. 158.
The other location is in the Fire Station block. (Map D) This
block was planned as a community service area and currently contains
the Southern Shores Fire Station and a telephone company installation.
The property owner, Kitty,Hawk Land Co., has indicated a willingness
to make land available for a Town Office. The central location and
proximity to the fire station make this the preferred location for a
new Town Office.
In,the Land Use Questionnaird 5 respondents indicated a preference
for a capital improvement fund over bonds for funding improvements such.

35
as a Town Office. A new Town such as Southern Shores must plan for.
growth and facilities to support it. Establishment of a capital
improvement fund -is considered to be a prudent action.
POLICY 20. THE TOWN WILL INITIATE PLANNING FOR A NEW TOWN
HALL AND TAKE ACTION TO ACQUIRE LAND FOR TOWN FACILITIES
IN THE VICINITY OF THE FIRE STATION.
The Town will initiate negotiations with Kitty Hawk Land Co. for
the required property during 1981 and will appoint a committee to
commence planning for a new Town Hall.
POLICY 21. THE TOWN WILL START A CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT FUND.
The current budget will be amended to provide initial funds..
COMMUNITY SERVICES
Fire Protection4
Southern Shores is one of three companies of the Kitty Hawk Fire
Department which is incorporated under Chapter 55A of the General
Statutes of the State of North Carolina. The Southern Shores Company's
area of responsibility extends from the southern Town boundary north to
the Currituck County line. The fire house (Map D) and -all equipment
is owned by the Kitty Hawk Fire Department. Major items of equipment
are a pumper and a tanker. The Company is staffed by volunteers from
the Southern Shores area. Financial support is provided from a Kitty
Hawk Fire Department special fire district tax.
Creation of'a.n independent'Southern Shores Fire Department has
been considered for some time. The issue is complicated to the degree
that the alternatives are not clear at this time. Factors such as the
establishment of the Department by an act of the General Assembly,
coverage of the area north of Southern Shores, equitable division of
t

36
facilities and equipment, etc., make this a subject for continuing
study.
POLICY 22. THE TOWN WILL CONTINUE TO DEVELOP AND STUDY
ALTERNATIVES TO THE CURRENT FIRE DEPARTMENT.ORGANIZATION.
Police Department 4
The current police department organization consisting of a two -
man force, with two.four-wheel drive vehicles is satisfying the
immediate needs of the community. The force is designed to grow with,
the Town to meet demands for additional service.
Library Seryice4
Library service is provided by the Dare County Library in Manteo
from a central.40,000 volume, 10,000 square foot facility.. A book
mobile visits Southern Shores twice a month and a book drop is conven-
iently located Decentralization of the present system is not planned
at this time, nor does it appear to be warranted._
Public Education4
Southern Shores is served by the Dare County Public School System.
Kitty Hawk School is located in Southern Shores. A current expansion
program, scheduled for completion in 1982, will have Southern Shores
students attending Kitty Hawk School for grades K - 5, Manteo Middle
School grades 6 - 8, and Manteo High School for grades 9 - 12. No '
education issues are forseen at this time.
The .location of Kitty Hawk School.in Southern Shores is not only
convenient for the attendance of our younger children but provides an
excellent playground and location for community meetings and other functions.

37
Water/Sewer System
The need for and status of public water/sewer systems is discussed
on page 22. However, a public water system issue is extension of the
system to areas not programmed for service.
The long -delayed Dare County Water System should be fully opera-
tional and providing treated water to Southern Shores by January 1981.
A policy is needed for extension of the water system to areas of the
Town not developed when the water system was installed. In response to
a request from the Town to work together in development of such a policy,
Dare County requested that the matter be delayed until the system is
fully operational.
POLICY 23. THE TOWN WILL WORK WITH DARE COUNTY TO DEVELOP
A POLICY ON EXTENSION OF THE WATER SYSTEM.
Medical Service4
There are three physicians in private practice within a twenty
mile radius of Southern Shores and the location of a fourth, in the
Town, is imminent. Health services are provided to the Town and its
residents by the Dare County Health Department in Manteo, N.C.
The Outer Banks Medical Center is a non-profit, out -patient, 24-
hour facility located in Nags Head. The Center is staffed by three
physicians and a normal complement of paraprofessional and administra
tive personnel. Necessary support is provided by serviced communities.
The Center provides a vital service to the community and it has
grown to meet the needs of the population it serves.
General hospitals are located in Elizabeth City and the.Norfolk

area. It is unlikely that the beach area will be able.to support a
hospital in the foreseeable future.
POLICY 24. THE OUTER BANKS MEDICAL CENTER RENDERS A VITAL
SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY. THE TOWN WILL PROVIDE FULL
SUPPORT TO THE CENTER AND ITS PROGRAMS.
Emergency movement and evacuation4 is a critical link between the
services of the local doctors and the Medical Center and,.the hospitals.
Until recently evacuation was a joint effort on the part.of the Sheriff's
Department (drivers/pilot) and the Emergency Medical Technicians
Association, and an ambulance could not answer a call without a trained
driver and technician. There was a continuing shortage of trained
technicians and Deputy Sheriffs were not always available.to drive.
ambulances.
In a move designed to improve this service, Dare.County recently
placed all emergency evacuation service under a Director of Emergency
Medical Service. Ambulance drivers are now county employees separate
from the Sheriff's Department. It is too soon to judge the effectiveness
of the new organization.
POLICY 25. THE TOWN SUPPORTS EFFORTS TO IMPROVE EMERGENCY
EVACUATION SERVICE AND WILL MONITOR THE QUALITY OF SERVICE
PROVIDED.
Utility Lines
Southern Shores is served by Carolina telephone and Telegraph
Company and Virginia Electric and Power Company. The phone company has
a sub -station in Southern Shores. Both companies provide hook-up,:,as
required, to all areas of the Town.

39
Since the mid-1960's utility lines in Southern Shores have been
placed underground. However, the older sections of the Town in the
lower beach and dune areas are still served by overhead lines. ,Recently
Carolina telephone and Telegraph placed some of its old.lines under-
ground. Although overhead utility lines in a treeless beach area are
singularly unattractive, the issue with overhead lines is an operational
one. Overhead lines are vulnerable to the severe weather conditions of
the Outer Banks and frequent power outages are the result. Unfortunately
the few overhead lines feed the underground lines and when the overhead
lines go out the underground lines are out too. Less than severe
weather conditions can cause salt build-up on lines and transformers
which can also cause power loss.
Property owner's response to the Land Use Questionnaire15 was in
favor of working with utility companies to place existing wires under-
ground and, if necessary, •to pay for the project from a combination of
general revenues and assessment of affected property owners.
Growth of the area north of the Town holds a future threat of
larger overhead transmission lines passing through the Town. Planning
now may mitigate the effect of these larger lines upon the community.
POLICY 26. THE TOWN WILL WORK WITH THE UTILITY COMPANIES TO
DEVELOP A PROGRAM TO PLACE ALL EXISTING AND FUTURE LOCAL
SERVICE AND TRANSMISSION LINES UNDERGROUND.
Solid Waste Collection
The Town contracts with Dare County for solid waste collection. -
Study of this subject by the Town Council concluded that in light of
costs associated with setting up a Town collection system; the scarcity

of qualified private contractors; and, the multitude of problems—
asso-
ciated with land -fills there was no other feasible alternative.at this
.time.
ROADS AND TRANSPORTATION6
About 35 miles of hard -surface roads interlace the community.
Of this mileage, 22 miles belong to the Town, 8 miles in the Chicahauk
subdivision are owned by the developer, and two State highways (one
along the southern boundary (U.S. 158) and the other bisecting the
community north/south (S.R. 1200) account for 5 miles. The primary
interior Town road is Dogwood Trail which connects with U.S. 158 and
also S.R. 1200 (Duck Road) which currently runs to the Currituck County
line.. A second "connector" (with U.S. 158 and S.R. 1200) exists via
the Chicahauk private road network. A third short, but heavily used
"connector" (Skyline Road) in the southeast sector is a part of a
hazardous six -way intersection the State is planning to eliminate.
In addition to the above interconnections of State roads there
are along Duck Road (S.R.,1200) 23 street intersections, including the
Fire Station access, and approximately 100 curb cuts (i.e. private
residential driveways).
Internally, most roads feed into either Dogwood Trail (soundside)
or the Duck Road (oceanside). Two additional interior roads (Hickory
and Hillcrest) which serve the open dunes area connect with the Duck
Road to the east and merge into Dogwood Trail to the west. Thus
although there are several roads which feed into (or receive traffic
from) the Duck Road these ultimately converge into a:single east/west
interior connector, i.e. Dogwood Trail.. Through traffic (autos, trucks,

41
campers) going to or coming from Duck and the Currituck Banks seek
"short cuts" over Town roads in increasing -volume.
The community.does not have nor doesit desire local public
transit service (15). The concept of a seasonal Outer Banks public bus,
at no .financial obligation to the Town, is supported.
Growth within Southern Shores and especially both north and south
of the Town will continue. Current problems or conditions will be
exacerbated: heavier traffic flow along U.S. 158 and on S.R.
1200 north to Duck and beyond into the Currituck Banks; more hazardous
intersections; increa.sing dangers to families walking.to the beach,
joggers, and bicyclists. Internally, a second east/west connector, at
least for emergencies (fire/storms, etc.) appears to be required so
that linkage between oceanside and soundside will not depend upon the
passability of Dogwood Trail -East. A southern east/west internal
connector is precluded due to the location of the golf course.
The Town believes it can make such internal road adjustments as
will be required.. It will also, through its zoning and subdivision
ordinances, seek to minimize future private outlets on major highways.
However,.it is virtually helpless to correct or ameliorate problems
arising from greatly increased traffic flows to the Outer Banks beaches
and particularly the amplification of traffic northward into the
Currituck Banks whose only: outlet, at this time, is to the south thus
traversing Southern Shores on both its ocean and southern flanks. In
a very real sense, Southern Shores is at the vortex, not only of bur-
geoning seasonal traffic but also for emergency evacuation procedures
affecting the entire northern banks.

42
Viable alternatives to the exterior road/traffic problems noted
above are extremely limited...The community cannot expect tobe insulated
from growth factors. Although the Town is powerless. -to provide direct
access to the Currituck Banks from the Currituck Mainland, it has gone
on record in two resolutions in support of this alternative. Nor can it
build another bridge, south of the present Wright Bridge over.Currituck
Sound (U.S. 158) to ease impending traffic flows and crisis emergency
evacuations. It is reasonable to expect, however, where critical
problems can be mitigated, relief should be sought with State coopera-
tion. This includes..lower speed limits, strict traffic enforcement, clear.
and visible intersections and rights -of -way with appropriate turn-off
lanes, well maintained.road surfaces and shoulders, etc.1 Also;
enforcement of State laws and Town ordinances relating to all aspects
of "traffic pollution visual, and noise.and fumes which, due to pre-
vailing southwesterly winds, carry such pollutants into populated Towne
areas.
POLICY 27. THE TOWN WILL CONSULT AND COOPERATE WITH STATE
AGENCIES IN THE DETERMINATION OF NECESSARY IMPROVEMENTS AND
SAFEGUARDS ON U.S. 158 BORDERING THE TOWN ARISING OUT OF
PROBABLE INCREASED TRAFFIC FLOW BROUGHT ABOUT BY ROAD
IMPROVEMENTS TO U.S. 158 IN CURRITUCK COUNTY AND THE STEADY
GROWTH OF THE ENTIRE OUTER BANKS AREA.
POLICY 28. THE TOWN WILL CONSULT WITH AND SEEK STATE
ASSISTANCE IN EFFORTS TO MITIGATE THE IMPACTS OF INCREASED
TRAFFIC ON DUCK ROAD (S.R.. 1200) CAUSED BY ANY POSSIBLE STATE
ACTION EXTENDING S.R. 1200 INTO THE CURRITUCK BANKS.

43
POLICY 29. THE TOWN WILL URGE THE STATE TO PROCEED IMMEDIATELY
TO IMPLEMENT ITS DECISION (FOLLOWING A PUBLIC HEARING IN JULY
1979) TO CORRECT HAZARDOUS AND BOTTLENECK TRAFFIC CONDITIONS
NOW EXISTING AT THE 6-WAY INTERSECTION OF U.S. 158, BY-PASS
158, SKYLINE ROAD, PIER ROAD, ANDIS.R. 1200 ACCESS. (PROJECT
W-441)
POLICY 30. THE TOWN WILL REQUEST THAT THE STATE STUDY TRAFFIC
PROBLEMS AND HAZARDS AT INTERSECTIONS OF TOWN ROADS WITH U.S.
158 WITH PARTICULAR ATTENTION TO THE DOGWOOD TRAIL INTER-
SECTION WHICH ALSO SERVES THE KITTY HAWK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
AND DUCK WOODS GOLF COURSE: AND THAT THE STATE MONITOR, ON A
PERIODIC BASIS, PEAK TRAFFIC.FLOWS THROUGH SOUTHERN SHORES ON
THE DUCK ROAD (S.R. 1200).
POLICY 31. THE TOWN WILL UNDERTAKE, WITH THE COOPERATION OF
THE DEVELOPER, FEASIBLE MEANS TO PROVIDE AN EMERGENCY ACCESS
EAST/WEST ROAD THROUGH THE NORTHWESTERN SECTOR OF THE TOWN
CONNECTING WITH DOGWOOD TRAIL NORTH.
POLICY 32. THE TOWN SUPPORTS A SEASONAL PUBLIC TRANSIT BUS
KITTY HAWK TO NAGS HEAD, WITHOUT ANY COMMITMENT OF TOWN
REVENUES FOR ITS OPERATION. RESIDENTS HOWEVER HAVE OVER-
WHELMINGLY INDICATED LACK OF INTEREST FOR PUBLIC TRANSIT -
WITHIN THE TOWN.
To the extent the Town can, on its own authority, implement the
above recommendations it plans to do so as the criticality arises. To
the extent the initiative and determination resides in State agencies,

44
the Town will solicit careful consideration and appropriate support or
action by such agencies.
GROWTH2 -
Population estimates show a growth from approximately 400 year-
round residents in 1980 to over 800 in 1990. Similarly the Summer peak
population is estimated to increase from 2600 to 5700 over the same
period.
In responding to the Land Use Questionnaire15 Southern Shores
property owners expressed desires to "limit" and "control" growth. How-
ever, only.minor, temporary measures can be taken to limit growth in a
Town developed to the extent of Southern Shores. An owner of a
"buildable" lot should not be deprived of his right to build on that lot
without cause.
The Town's attitude toward growth is expressed in its policies on
housing mix and commercial zones. Additionally, there, is no intent to
promote or "advertise" the Town in the manner practiced by,many other
beach communities.
POLICY 33. THE TOWN WILL NOT ADVERTISE OR OTHERWISE PROMOTE
THE COMMUNITY OF SOUTHERN SHORES IN AN ATTEMPT TO INCREASE
.YEAR-ROUND OR SEASONAL POPULATION.
BOUNDARY DEVELOPMENT
Compatible development along a community's boundaries is of vital
interest to its citizens. Southern Shores is no exception. (See Map D)
The Town's eastern boundary is the Atlantic Ocean. On the west it is
bounded by Currituck Sound, Ginguite Bay, and Martins Point. The extra-
territorial jurisdiction the Town exercises over Martins Point provides

45
adequate control over the western boundary. Developmental control over
the northern and southern boundaries is exercised by Dare County.
Dare County recently zoned the land along the southern boundary.
This action was taken in coordination with Southern Shores and the
result is acceptable to the Town and compatible with its zoning. Part
of the land along the northern boundary is undeveloped. The Town will
work to insure that zoning/development of this area is.compatible with
(adjacent areas of .Southern Shores.
POLICY 34. THE TOWN WILL WORK WITH DARE COUNTY TO INSURE
THAT ZONING AND DEVELOPMENT OF PROPERTIES ADJACENT TO ITS
BOUNDARIES IS COMPATIBLE IN LAND USAGE WITH THAT EXISTING
OR PLANNED FOR ADJACENT AREAS OF THE TOWN.
COORDINATION AND COOPERATION
Both before and after incorporation the new Town of Southern Shores
was the beneficiary of an outstanding degree of assistance from State,
County and neighboring Town governments. It is the intent of the Town
to continue this spirit of coordination and cooperation and reciprocate
.wherever and whenever possible.
The Town has supported, and continues to support, both formal and
informal discussions among local government leaders and agencies for
the purpose of working together to solve common problems.
Southern Shores provided draft copies of this Land Use Plan to
Dare and Currituck Counties, and the Towns of Kill Devil Hills and Nags
Head for their review and comment.
POLICY 35. THE TOWN WILL CONTINUE TO COORDINATE AND
COOPERATE WITH STATE, COUNTY AND NEIGHBORING COMMUNITY

46
GOVERNMENTS ON COMMON PROBLEMS AND OTHER. AREAS OF INTEREST.
ANNEXATION13
During the Land Use Plan development process annexation of the
two extraterritorial jurisdiction tracts, the golf course and Martins
Point was raised as an issue.' Questionnaire responses indicated that
Southern Shores property owners favored studying annexation of both
tracts.15
Preliminary study indicates that State law does not qualify Martins
Point for involuntary annexation. Voluntary annexation is a possibility
and should be explored.
The golf course property does appear to qualify for involuntary
annexation under the provisions of the general statutes with additional
support in case law. As the Town already provides road maintenance and
police services..to.the golf course, the case for its annexation appears
stronger than that of Martins Point.
POLICY 36. THE TOWN WILL STUDY THE FEASIBILITY OF ANNEXING
THE GOLF COURSE AND MARTINS•POINT.
RECREATION11
Ownership of recreation facilities and open space in the Town is
in the hands of the Southern Shores Civic Association and the Chicahauk
Recreation Club. This arrangement is described on page 7 . Location
of recreation areas and open space is shown on Map D .
Under the current ownership arrangements the Town can only,
recommend improvement of recreation facilities.
From a list of possible recreation improvements15 Southern Shores
property owners indicated that their top priorities are:

47
Bicycle, walking, jogging paths.
Additional parking"at the Ocean Beach.
Additional parking areas at other points of beach access.
An initial estimate of $25,000 per mile of paved bike path over-
whelms a small community like Southern Shores. It remains for.other
alternatives such as grants, donations, etc. to be developed and
explored.
Existing parking facilities (25 cars) at the Ocean Beach were
filled a number of weekends during the Summer of 1980. If the Civic
Association plans to provide parking space for qualified users of the
Ocean Beach in 1981, the parking area will have to be expanded.
In anticipation of .saturation of available parking space at the
Ocean Beach area additional parking areas must be located and plans made
for opening them to Southern Shores property owners.
POLICY 37. THE TOWN WILL STUDY THE FEASIBILITY OF CON-
STRUCTING BICYCLE, WALKING, JOGGING PATHS.
POLICY 38. THE TOWN WILL WORK WITH THE SOUTHERN SHORES CIVIC
ASSOCIATION TO INCREASE THE OCEAN BEACH PARKING AREA FOR THE
NEAR TERM AND STUDY ALTERNATIVES TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL BEACH
PARKING FOR THE LONG TERM.
CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
The Southern Shores community has always enjoyed active partici-
pation of its residents in public affairs. Incorporation has not seen
a lessening of this attitude. Town meetings, public hearings, Civic
Association meetings, etc., are lively and well attended.
Public participation in preparation of this Land Use Plan is

48
described in the Plan Development section. Periodic updates of this
plan will depend just as heavily on public participation.
POLICY 39. THE SOUTHERN SHORES LAND USE PLAN WILL BE
REVIEWED AND UPDATED ANNUALLY. THE PUBLIC WILL BE OFFERED
AN OPPORTUNITY TO PARTICIPATE IN ALL PHASES OF THE UPDATE
PROCESS.
The Southern Shores Planning Board will review the Land Use Plan
annually andrecommend changes.to the Town Council in October of each
year.

49
POLICY SUMMARY
RESOURCE PROTECTION
POLICY 1. The basic objective within the ocean erodible areas
is to maintain the line of oceanfront sand dunes by protecting
the vegetation which stabilizes the dune system.
POLICY 2. Within the high hazard flood areas the Town will enforce
the standards prescribed by the Federal Insurance Administration.
POLICY 3. The Town will work with the appropriate state and federal
agencies in protecting the integrity of public trust waters within
Southern Shores.
POLICY 4. The Town recognizes the importance of coastal wetlands
as a breeding ground for fish, shrimp and certain animals, birds
and plants. No specific development activity is currently permitted
within this AEC.
POLICY 5. The Town works closely with the County Health Department
and with the State Office of Coastal Management in managing estuarine
shorelines.

50
POLICY 6. It is the policy of the Town to identify a variety of
natural resources which do not qualify for AEC status under CAMA:
to encourage the retention of forest growth and natural plant
communities, including the protection of maritime forest areas:
to maintain a suitable habitat for animals and birds indigenous to
the area: and to disturb the natural terrain as little as possible.
POLICY 7., Drinking water from wells and surface waters in the
area are believed to be free of harmful contaminants. There has
been no indication that harmful water quality problems exist in the
community.
POLICY 8. Due to the large lots for residential development, the
design of subdivisions which has left the more unfavorable soils in
open space, and the generally favorable soils for on -lot sewage
disposal, the Town will be able to accommodate future growth on septic
systems. It is not anticipated that a public sewer system will be
necessary.
POLICY 9. The Town will seek remedies to avert flooding such as
that which occurred during the Ash Wednesday storm.
POLICY 10. The Town will recommend that the county sponsor an •
analytical evaluation of the Dare County emergency evacuation pro-
cedures.

51
RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
POLICY 11. The Town is primarily a residential community and
therefore does not,desire to promote agriculture, forestry, mining,
fisheries, industry, energy facilities, or tourist -related recrea-
tion.
ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT'
POLICY 12. The Town will seek to acquire and manage all inland
waterways (lagoons) connecting with Currituck Sound and Ginguite
Bay for the purpose of providing a single Town entity for their
management.
POLICY 13.. The Town will enact appropriate ordinances regulating
r specific matters pertinent to the control, management, and preserva-
tion of inland waterways and their use (or abuse) such as the con-
struction of piers, bulkheads, boat operations, noise, litter, and
pollutants.
POLICY 14. The Town in cooperation with all other interested parties
(Southern Shores Civic Association, Chicahauk Improvement Association,
Kitty Hawk Land Company) will develop a long range policy regarding
the preservation, maintenance, and management of all properties border-
ing on all bodies of water - inland, sound, and ocean. Such policies
should consider contingencies.lik0 y to arise from emergency

52
conditions such as floods, hurricanes, and storms.
POLICY 15. The Town desires to maintain a mix of residential'
zoning. Multi -family districts are acceptable as constituted
and will not be increased.
POLICY 16. The commercial zone is acceptable as currently con-
stituted and will not be increased. Uses permitted in the commercial
zone will only be those that serve the community of Southern Shores
and that the citizens desire.
POLICY 17. The Town will restrict motels/hotels to a separate
zone in the vicinity of the old Southern Shores'Motor Lodge.
POLICY 18 Owners of property in the RS-1 district are entitled
to visual and noise buffers from commercial facilities.
POLICY 19. Maximum building height offthirty feet is more consistent
with community housing standards than the currently permitted thirty-
five feet.
POLICY 20. The Town will initiate planning for a new Town hall and
take action to acquire land for Town facilities in the vicinity of the
fire station.

53
POLICY 21. The Town will start a capital improvement fund.
POLICY 22. The Town will continue to develop and.study alterna-
tives to the current fire department organization.
POLICY 23. The Town will work with Dare County to develop a
policy on extension of the water system.
POLICY 24. The Outer Banks Medical Center renders a vital service
to the community. The Town will provide full.support to the Center
and its programs.
POLICY 25: The Town supports efforts to improve emergency evacuation
service and will monitor the quality of service provided.
POLICY 26. The Town will work with the utility companies to develop
a program to place all existing and future local service and transmis-
sion lines underground.
POLICY 27. The Town will consult and cooperate with state agencies
in the determination of necessary improvements and safeguards on
U.S. 158 bordering the Town arising out of probable increased traffic
flow brought about by road improvements to U.S. 158 in Currituck
County and the steady growth of the entire Outer Banks area.
POLICY*28. The Town will consult with and seek state assistance in
efforts to mitigate the impacts of increased traffic on Duck Road

54
(S.R. 1200) caused by any possible state action.extending S.R.
1200 into the Currituck Banks.
POLICY 29. The Town will urge the state to proceed immediately
to implement its decision (following a public hearing in July 1979)
to correct hazardous and bottleneck traffic conditions now exist-
ing at the 6-way intersection of U.S. 158, By -Pass 158, Skyline Road,
Pier Road, and S.R. 1200 access. (Project W-441)
POLICY 30. The Town will request that the state study traffic prob-
lems and hazards at intersections of Town roads with U.S. 158 with
particular attention to the Dogwood Trail intersection which also
serves the Kitty Hawk Elementary School and Duck Woods Golf Course:
and that the state monitor, on a periodic basis, peak traffic flows
through Southern Shores on the Duck Road (S.R. 1200).
POLICY 31. The Town will undertake, with the cooperation of the
developer, feasible means to provide an emergency access east/west
road through the northwestern sector of the Town connecting with
Dogwood Trail North.
POLICY 32.- The Town supports a seasonal public transit bus Kitty.
Hawk to Nags Head, without any commitment of Town revenues for its
operation. Residents however have overwhelmingly indicated lack,of
interest for public transit within the Town.

55
POLICY 33. The Town will not advertise or otherwise promote the
community of Southern Shores in an attempt to increase year-round
or seasonal population.
POLICY_34. The Town will work with Dare County to insure that
zoning and development of properties adjacent to its boundaries
is compatible in land usage with that existing or planned for
adjacent areas of the Town.
POLICY 35. The Town will continue to coordinate and cooperate
with state, county and neighboring community governments on common
problems and other areas of interest.
POLICY 36. The Town will study the feasibility of annexing the
golf course and Martins Point.
POLICY 37. The Town will study the feasibility of constructing
bicycle, walking, jogging paths.
POLICY 38. The Town will work with the Southern Shores Civic
Association to increase the ocean beach parking area for the near
term and study alternatives to provide additional beach parking for
the long term.
POLICY 39. The Southern Shores Land Use Plan will be reviewed and
updated annually. The public will be offered an opportunity to
participate in all phases of the update process.

LAND CLASSIFICATION
56
The Land Class System has been developed as a means of assistance
in the implementation of the.plan. By delineation of land classes (see
Map B), the Town has indicated where and to what densities they want
growth to occur and where they want to conserve natural and cultural
resources.
Although specific areas are outlined on the land classification
map, land classification is merely a tool to help implement policies
and is not a regulatory mechanism.
Community: The purpose of the community class is to provide for
clustered land development to help meet.housing and public service
needs within the Town of Southern Shores. In addition, a limited
amount of commercial development is expected to meet only the needs`of
Southern Shores residents (e.g. a motel near'the fishing pier in Kitty
Hawk to accomodate Southern Shores visitors, professional offices in
the designated commercial area). Except for the conservation areas
designated below, all areas of the Town are within the community class.
Community Class Policy: Planning for the Town involves main-
taining the existing low density residential use of the land and
providing for only limited and necessary services (e.g. public water,
police protection, fire protection, street maintenance). Due to large
lot development, careful subdivision which has left fragile areas in
open space, and generally favorable soils for on -lot sewage disposal,
public sewer is neither needed nor desired. Most of the Town is •
presently subdivided for single family residential use, and continued
enforcement of present regulations will insure existing development
patterns.
Conservation: The purpose of the conservation class is to provide
for effective long-term management of significant limited or irreplace-
able areas. Such management is needed because of its natural, cultural,
recreational, productive or scenic values. In Southern Shores, these

57
areas include the AECs (e.g. ocean hazard area, estuarine shoreline,
coastal wetland, and all surface waters). In addition, other areas
classified as conservation include open space areas in the Town under
the control of the Southern Shores Civic Association and/or the Kitty
Hawk Land Company (see Map.B).
Conservation Policy: The Town supports CAMA regulations in
applying standards for AEC areas. In the Southern Shores Ocean
Erodible Areas, the policy is to maintain the ocean -front sand dunes by
protecting the vegetation which stabilizes the dune system.
In the High Hazard Flood Areas, the Town enforces standards pre-
scribed by the Federal Insurance Administration.
In the Public Trust Waters, the Town will work with the appropriate
State and Federal agencies in protecting the integrity of the Public
. - Trust Waters within Southern Shores.
In the Coastal Hetlands, the Town allows no specific development
activity and implements this policy through the CAMA permitting process.
On the Estaurine Shoreline, the Town policy is to work closely
with the County Health Department and the State Office of Coastal
Management in managing these areas.
It is the policy.of the Town to identify --a variety ofinatural
resources which do not qualify for AEC status under CAMA; to encourage
the retention of forest growth and natural plant communities, including
the protection of maritime forest areas; to maintain a suitable habitat
for animals and birds indigenous to the area; and to disturb the
natural terrain as little as possible.
The Town in. cooperation with all other interested parties (Southern
Shores Civic Association, Chicahauk Improvement Association, Kitty Hawk

58'
Land Company) will develop a long range policy regarding the preserva-
tion, maintenance and management of all properties bordering on all
bodies of water --inland, sound, and ocean. The Town will continue to
Work out plans for use and management of open space areas in the Town.

59
orrrormrrc *
1. Historical Sketch of Southern Shores. David Stick, 1980, 4pp.
2. Population Analysis (Southern Shores). Coastal Consultants, Ltd.,
1980, 4pp.
3. Anal sis of Housing Mix (Southern Shores). Coastal Consultants,
t , 4pp.
4. Community Facilities and Services. George.McIntosh, 1980,.5pp.
5. Administrative Facilities. Robert Andrews, 1980, 3pp.
6. Transportation. Coastal Consultants, Ltd., 1980, 4pp.
7. Environment and Growth. Coastal Consultants, Ltd., 1980, 7pp.
8. Analysis of Need For A Public Wastewater Facility. Arthur V.
Peterson, 1980, 4pp.
9. Lagoons. Coastal Consultants, Ltd., 1980, 4pp.
10. Addendum - Lagoons and Related Water Bodies. Nelson Bortz, 1980,
PP•
11. Recreation. Homer Althouse, 1980, 12pp.
12. Ecology. Virginia Ross, 1980, llpp.
13.* Annexation Issues. Coastal Consultants, Ltd., 1980, 3pp.
14. Soil Interpretations. Coastal Consultants, Ltd., 1980, 36pp.
15. Land Use Questionnaire; Responses; and, Summary. 1980, 14pp.
* References are on file at the Southern Shores Town Office.

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCES
ADOPTED BY SOUTHERN SHORES T014N COUNCIL
The following ordinances have been enacted by the Town Council of
ti
Southern Shores since its inception, April 1979.
4/3/79 ; Adoption of Applicable County Ordinances - This was an .
interim measure to make all Dare County Ordinances that apply to Southern
Shores applicable in the new municipality until specific new ordinances
could be considered and adopted. (#79-0001)
5/1/79 - "Bob -Tail Budget Ordinance" - This was the budget for the
period from incorporation of the Town to the end of the fiscal year June
30, 1979, made.possible with a $5,000 donation from the Southern Shores •
Civic Association.
5/23/79 "Southern Shores Planning Board" - This ordinance
established a Planning Board and spelled out its, duties. (#79-0002)
5/23/79 - "Land Subdivision Ordinance" - This basic ordinance con-
trolling subdivision of land was essentially the same as the county
ordinance which had been developed with heavy imput from Southern Shores
citizens. (#79-0003)
5/23/79 - "Zoning Ordinance" - The effect of this ordinance was to
adopt a zoning map and those parts of the Dare County Zoning Ordinance
applicable to Southern Shores. In the process, the county ordinance,
which had been developed in large part by Southern Shores citizens, was
reviewed and updated by the Town Planning Board. (#79-0004)

61
6/5/79 - "1979-80-Budget Ordinance" Provided the first tax rate
for the Town and set forth in detail the revenue and expenditure esti-
mates for the operation of the Town. (#79-0005)
8/7/79 "Extraterritorial Jurisdiction" This ordinance esta-
• blished toning jurisdiction of the Town over the OBRA property and
Martin Point, or CATCO. (#79-0006)
8/7/79 - "Amendment to Zoning Ordinance" - Corrected an error in
the composition of the Board of Adjustment as.originally.established in
the Zoning Ordinance. (#79-0007)
8/7/79 - "Building Code and Inspection Procedures" - This exten-
sive ordinance made effective the N.C. Building Code, set up a Building
Inspection Department, appointment of a Building Inspector and procedures
in issuing building permits. (#79-0008)
8/7/79 - "Schedule of Building Permit Fees" - This established a
simplified schedule of fees for building permits, in the median range
as compared with those of the county and other municipalities in the
area (#79-0009)
9/4/79 "State of Emergency Ordinance" - Adoption of those parts
of the Dare County Civil Defense Plan applicable to Southern Shores.
(#79-0010)
9/4/79 - "Establishment of a Police Department" - This ordinance
provided the framework enabling the Town to proceed with establishing
its own law enforcement program. (#79-0011)
9/4/79 - "An Ordinance for the Regulation and Control of Motor
Vehicles & Traffic" - A detailed ordinance, incorporating those parts
of ordinances in effect in nearby municipalities applicable to the
residential community of Southern Shores. (#79-0012)

62
10/2/79.--l'An Ordinance'Dealina with Offenses, Actions &'Other
Matters Declared Inimical to"Health, Safes & Welfare" - An extensive
ordinance covering Disorderly Conduct,.Noise and Firearms, Nuisances, -
Garbage:and-Litter, and Camping and Use of Vehicles for living, Residing,
and Sleeping. (#79-0013)
11/27/79 - "Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance" - A detailed
ordinance for the regulation, control, and construction of buildings in
flood hazard areas as required by State law and'the Federal Emergency
Management Agency, to be administered by the Town Building Inspector.
(#79-0014)
2/5/80 -.Amends Ordinance #79-0013 to effect -more specific require-
ments and controls regarding garbage and litter, open burning, beach
fires for.which a permit must be secured._ (#80-0015)
2/5/80 - "Bird Sanctuary".- Town corporate..limits declared a bird
sanctuary: (#80-0016)
4/29/80 -"CAMA Local Implementation and Enforcement" = Sets forth
the conditions and requirements for issuance of minor development
permits.by the designated local.official (Building 'Inspector) of'the
CAMA permit management plan and procedures for appeal, etc.,(#80-0017)
4/29/80 - Amends Subdivision Ordinance - Establishes revised
procedural steps in plat review and approvals and requires certain bond,
letter of credit, or cash deposits to assure completion of work. (#80
0018)
7/1/80._- "Budget Ordinance, 1980-81 . (#80-0020)

63
ENFORCEMENT OF LAND'USE'REGULATIONS
Town enforcement measures affecting land/use/classification; ._
-reside in the first instance primarily with the Town Building Inspector
who also serves as zoning administrator, flood insurance officer and
local CAMA permit officer. On certain matters, e.g. beach/dune motor -
vehicle driving, hunting, use of firearms, etc., enforcement authority
is vested in Town police officers.
Other aspects, e.g. camp fires on the beach, burning trash, are
administered by the Fire Chief, Southern Shores Fire Station. "No -
Wake" speed on the lagoons is enforced by the local agent of the N.C.
w
Wildlife Commission. Issuance of septic tank permits is a function of
the County Environmental Health Services.

64
SELECTED PERTINENT RESOLUTIONS
ADOPTED BY SOUTHERN SHORES TOWN COUNCIL
The following resolutions relate to matters of interest or concern
applicable to subjects covered by the Land Use Plan.
5/23/79 - "Extraterritorial Representation" - Requests the Dare
County Board of Commissioners to name extraterritorial representatives
to the Planning Board from Martins Point and Outer Banks Recreational
Association (OBRA). (#002-79)
5/23/79 - "Dare County Land Use Plan" - Adopts May 6, 1976, Dare
County CAMA.and Land Use Plans which pertain to Southern Shores.
(#003-79)
7/3/79 - "Currituck Outer Banks" - Expresses concern over increasing
vehicular traffic north into Currituck County and urges the State to
provide a northern access route and terminal points to avoid creating an
open passageway or "loop" thereby generating a further flow of traffic
through the Town. (#005-79)
10/2/79 - Commends Governor Hunt for ordering a comprehens-ive
environmental impact study of Currituck Outer Banks prior to any State
action creating a public, highway or "loop" funneling excessive vehicular
traffic through Southern Shores. (#007-79)
11/12/79 - "Land Use Plan Contract" - Authorizes the Town to
execute contract with N.C. Department of Natural Resources and Community
Development relative to a land use planning project. (#.0018-79)

65
11/27/79 - "Flood Insurance" - Formal resolution applying for
approval of Town as administrator of flood insurance program under pro-
visions of National Flood Insurance Program Regulations. (#0010-79)
11/27/79 - "No -Wake Speed" - Application to N.C. Wildlife Resources
• Commission to establish a "No -Wake Speed" with canals and lagoons
(#0011-79)
1/8/80 - "Standardized Traffic Signs" - Resolution stating coopera-
tion with the Governor's Office of Highway Safety in a program for the
provision and maintenance of standard traffic signs. (#0012-80)
7/1/80 - "Mutual Law Assistance" - Establishes policy and authori-
zation to enter into agreements with other local law enforcement agencies,
on a reciprocal basis, for cooperation in certain routine matters and
emergency situations. (#0013-80)
"Beach Bus Service" - Letter of August 12, 1980 from Mayor Kern
Pitts of Southern Shores to Mayor Don Byran of Nags Head expressing
support and endorsement of seasonal beach bus service without commit-
ment of any financial obligation by the Town of Southern Shores.

STATE LICENSES AND PERMITS
Agency Licenses and Permits
Department of Natural -Resources and Permits to discharge to surface
Community Development waters or operate waste water
Division of'Environmental Management treatment plants or oil discharge
permits; NPDES Permits,.(G.S.143-
215).
Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development
Office of Coastal Management
Department of Natural Resources and
Community Development
Division of Earth Resources
- Permits for septic tanks with a
capacity over 3000 gallons/day
(G.S: 143-215.3).
Permits for withdrawal of sur-
face or ground waters. in capacity
use areas (G.S. 143-215.15).
- Permits for air pollution abate-
ment facilities and sources
(G.S. 143-215.108).
- Permits for construction of
complex sources; e.g. parking
lots, subdivisions, stadiums,
etc. (G.S. 143-215.109).
- Permits for construction of a
well over 100,000 gallons/day
(G.S. 87-88).
- Permits to dredge and/or fill in
estuarine waters, tidelands, etc.
(G.S. 113-229).
- Permits to undertake development
in Areas of Environmental Con-
cern (G.S. 113A-118).
NOTE: Minor development permits
are issued by the local
government.
- Permits to alter or construct a
dam (G.S. 143-215.66).
- Permits to mine (G.S. 74-51).
- Permits to drill an exploratory
oil or gas well (G.S. 113-381).

67
- Permits to conduct geographical
exploration (G.S. 113-391).
- Sedimentation erosion control
plans for any land disturbing
activity of over one contiguous
acre (G.S. 113A-54).
Department of Natural Resources and
- Permits to construct an oil
Community Development
refinery.
Secretary of NRCD
Department of Administration
- Ea.sements to fill where lands
are proposed to be raised above
the normal high water mark of
navigable waters by filling
(G.S. 146.6(c)).
Department of Human Resources
4
- Approval to operate a_solid
waste disposal site or facility
(G.S. 130-166.16).
- Approval for construction of
any public water supply facility
that serves at least 15 connec-
tions for.year round residences
or 25 or more year round
residents.

FEDERAL LICENSES AND PERMITS
Agency Licenses and Permits
Army Corps of.Engineers - Permits required under Section
(Department of Defense) 9 and 10 of the Rivers and
Harbors of 1899; permits to
construct in navigable waters.
Coast Guard
(Department of Transportation)
- Permits required under Section
103 of the Marine Protection,
Research and Sanctuaries Act of
1972.
- Permits required under Section
404 of the Federal Water Pollu-
tion Control Act of 1972; permits
to undertake dredging and/or
filling activities.
- Permits for bridges, causeways,
pipelines over navigable waters;
required under the General
Bridge Act of 1946 and the
Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899.
- Deep water port permits.
Geological Survey - Permits required for. off -shore
Bureau of Land Management drilling.
(Department of. Interior)
- Approvals of OCS pipeline corri-
dor rights -of -way.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
— Licenses for siting, construc-
tion and operation of nuclear
power plants; required under the
Atomic Energy Act of 1954 and
Title II of the Energy Reorgani-
zation Act of 1974.
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission - Permits for construction, opera-
tion and maintenance of inter-
state pipelines facilities
required under the Natural Gas
Act of 1938.

Tit
Orders of interconnection of
electric transmission facili-
ties under Section 202(b) of
the Federal Power Act.-.
- Permission required for
abandonment of natural gas.
pipeline and associated
facilities under Section
70(b) of the Natural Gas Act
of 1938.
- Licenses for non-federal
hydro -electric projects and
associated transmission lines
under Sections 4 and 15 of
the Federal Power Act.

70
MONITORING OF IAND USE PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
The Town will monitor its future development to determine if
management tools are directing development and protecting the environ-
ment as specified in the Land'Use Plan.
A map showing environmental features and significant development
areas will be placed in the Town Office. The Town will develop a system
by which land use changes can be noted. This map will be reviewed peri-
odically by the Planning Board in order to determine if adjustments to*
the management system are necessary to insure consistency with the Land
Use Plan.

72
Town of Southern Shores
Contract # 4885
Grant Amount $9,000
The Town of Southern Shores has prepared a Land Use Plan
to assist the Town Council and its successors, the citizens of
Southern Shores, and the state, federal and county governments
in making decisions concerning natural resources, -facilities,
services, and growth of the Town.
The Town began in 1947 with acquisition by a single develop-
ment company of all of what was to become the Town of Southern Shores:
2,600 acres, extending from ocean to sound for a distance of four
miles on the North Banks above Kitty Hawk.
The original development concept emphasized low density family -
oriented residential use; the extensive setting aside of parks,
beaches, boat harbors, overlooks and other open space; protection
or preservation of the extensive natural forest growth, dune
formations, and swamp and marshlands; and slow, carefully planned
growth. In short, the goal was to create an informal environment
in a natural setting, rather than a conventional subdivision.
The Plan was prepared by the Land.Use Task Force, a group with
members from the Southern Shores Planning Board, and the Citizens
Advisory Committee, with assistance.from Coastal Consultants, Ltd.
Other public participation.was obtained through a public
forum, citizen attitude questionnaire, and a public hearing on

73
Town of Southern Shores
the Plan Draft.
Initial development of the Town occurred along the ocean
Y
front. In the late 50's Seacrest Village was developed in the
northern section of the Town, with winding roads west from the
beach area.. In the 19b0's, development of the soundside and
interior began.
A variety of open spaces exist in the Town as a result of .
developers' turning over these areas to the Southern Shores
Civic Association.
Approximately 22 miles of road are paved and now under
Town ownership. The developers' rights to lagoons, canals, and
boat harbors were transferred to the Southern Shores Civic
Association in 1978.
Potential impacts from development in Currituck and Dare
Counties are a concern of the Town. Widening the U.S. 158 By -
Pass through Nags Head and Kill Devil Hills, a proposal favored
by those communities, will cause severe impacts on Southern Shores.
The State taking of the road from Duck to Corolla is another
transportation concern. Additionally, through traffic from the
Wright Memorial Bridge to areas north of Southern Shores are a
concern.
The Town has police and fire protection, and soon will be
making use of the regional water system. Individual septic tanks

74
Town of Southern Shores
provide for waste disposal, and in all but relatively few sections
of Southern Shores soil conditions are considered adequate. +
Although the Town has a peak population of 2,500-3,000 persons,
the Town is increasingly becoming a community of permanent residents.
The only areas in Southern Shores which are AECs are the
surface waters, coastal wetlands, ocean hazard areas,.and the
estaurine shoreline. The Town enforces CAMA regulations, and has
not specified any uses for the AECs other.than those not permitted
due to zoning, restrictive covenants, or rules and regulations of
the Southern Shores Civic Association.
The Town desires a continuation of low density development;
protection and preservation of the natural forest growth; proper
maintenance1of roads and waterways; low speed limits;*strict J
zoning enforcement; minimal government; continuation of a viable
civic association; as.few side effects as possible from the
burgeoning resort areas surrounding them; and good water, fire
protection and polic protection.
They do not want or feel they need commercial facilities
otter than those necessary to meet basic needs of the community
(e.g.'physician, law office, drug store); high density development
or high-rise construction; excessive traffic through their
community; a central sewage system; vehicles on their beaches
or dunes; structured recreational facilities or complexes

75
Town of Southern Shores
typical of so many retirement communities; or too rapid growth.
No specific management tools or procedures have yet been
adopted, although such consideration will be given during the
next fiscal year. The Plan has been endorsed by the community,
and public comment will be taken into consideration before
adopting a final document.

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