1997 CAMA Land Use Plan Update-1998

O TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH
1997 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TOWN COUNCIL
Honorable Cheryle "Cherri" Cheek, Mayor
Edward Gore, Sr.
W. Carl Bazemore
P. Ed Hughes
Clifford Errickson
Lloyd Grantham
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING BOARD
Marc Kaplan, Chairman
Fred Abernathy
Cecelia Adams
Steve Freitas
Ron Hayes
Shirley Shape (ETA Member)
Linda Thole (Alternate Town Member)
TOWN STAFF
Linda Fluegel, Town Administrator
PLANNING CONSULTANT
Margaret H. Hayes, AICP
Hayes & Associates
2222 Mimosa Place
Wilmington, NC 28403-2428
[phone]
FUNDING AGENCY
The preparation of this land use planning document with associated maps was financed in part through a grant
provided by the North Carolina Coastal Management Program, through funds provided the Coastal Zone
Management Act of 1972, as amended, which is administered by the Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource
Management, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH
1997 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION/DESCRIPTION
PAGE
1.0
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1-1
1.1
POPULATION GROWTH
1-1 .
1.2
COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT
1-2
1.3
SUMMARY OF POLICY STATEMENTS FOR MAJOR ISSUES
1-3
1.4
SUMMARY OF LAND CLASSIFICATION
1-13
2.0
INTRODUCTION
2-1
2.1
WHY PREPARE A CAMA LAND USE PLAN?
2-1
2.2
FUNCTIONS OF THE LAND USE PLAN
2-1
2.3
COMPONENTS OF THE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
2-1
3.0
PRESENT
CONDITIONS
3-1
3.1
'POPULATION
3-1
3.1.1 Year-round population
3-1
3.1.2 Seasonal Population
3-8
3.1.3 Population Summary
3-11
3.2
ECONOMY
3-12
3.3
EXISTING LAND AND WATER USES
3-14
3.3.1 Existing Water Uses
3-14
3.3.2 Existing Land Uses
3-16
3.3.3 Significant Land Use Compatibility Problems and Problems from
3-21
Unplanned Development
3.3.4 Significant Water Use Compatibility Problems
3-21
3.3.5 Areas Likely to Experience Changes in Predominant Land Use
3-21
0

SECTIONIDESCRIPTION
3.4 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS
- -3.4.1 -
Prior CAMA Land Use Plans-
3.4.2
Transportation Plans
3.4.3
Water Supply and Distribution Plans
3.4.4
Waste Treatment Plans
3.4.5
Stormwater Management Plan and Ordinance
3.4.6
Utilities Extension Policv
3.4.7
Open Space and Recreation Policies
3.4.8
Emergency Response Plan
3.4.9
Local Regulations and Enforcement Provisions
3.4.9.1. CAMA Permits
3.4.9.2 Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map
3.4.9.3. Subdivision Regulations
3.4.9.4 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
3.4.9.5 Building Code
3.4.9.6 Septic Tank Regulations
3.4.9.7 Dune Protection
3.4.9.8 Sign Ordinance
3.4.10
Federal and State Regulations
4.0 CONSTRAINTS
4.1 LAND
SUITABILITY
4.1.1 Physical Limitations for Development
4.1.1.1 Manmade Hazards
4.1.1.2 Flood Hazard Areas
4.1.1.3 Areas with Soil Limitations
4.1.1.4 Water Supply Areas
4.1.1.5 Slopes in Excess of 12 Percent
4.1.1.6 Shoreline Areas with High Erosion Potential
4.1.1.7 Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA)
4.1.2 Fragile Areas
4.1.2.1 Areas of Environmental Concern
(1) Estuarine System
a. Coastal Wetlands
b. Estuarine Waters
c. Estuarine Shorelines
d. Public Trust Areas
e. Outstanding Resource Waters
(2) Ocean Hazards
a. Ocean Erodible Areas
b. High Hazard Flood Areas
c. Inlet Hazard Areas
4.1.2.2 Coastal Complex Natural Areas
4.1.2.3 Areas that Sustain Remnant Species
4.1.2.4 Unique Geological Formations
4.1.2.5 Archaeological and Historic Resources
R
PAGE
3-21
3-21- ---
3-22
3-22
3-22
3-24
3-24
3-24
3-24
3-25
3-25
3-25
3-26
3-27
3-27
3-27
3-27
3-28
3-28
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-1
4-2
4-2
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-4
4-5
4-5
4-5
4-6
4-6
4-7
4-7
4-7
4-7
4-8
4-8
4-8
4-10
4-10

SECTIONMESCRIPTION
PAGE
4.1.2.6 Maritime Forests
4-10
4.1.2.7 Prime Wildlife Habitats
4712
4.1.2.8 Scenic and Prominent High Points
4-12
4.1.2.9 Identified National Inventory Wetlands
4-12
4.1.2.10 Anadromous Fish Spawning Areas
4-12
4.1.3 Areas with Resource Potential
4-13
4.1.3.1 Agricultural, Forest, and Mining Resources
4-13
4.1.3.2 Productive Water Bodies
4-13
4.1.3.3 Fish and Gamelands
4-13
4.1.3.4 Non -intensive Outdoor Recreation Lands
4-13
4.1.3.5 Privately Owned Wildlife Sanctuary
4-13
4.2
COMMUNITY SERVICE CAPACITY
4-13
4.2.1 Wastewater Management
4-13
4.2.2 Drinking Water Supply
4-14
4.2.3 Transportation
4-15
4.2.4 Schools
4-16
4.2.5 Solid Waste Disposal
4-17
4.2.6 Police Protection
4-17
4.2.7 Fire Protection
4-17
4.2.8 Emergency Rescue and Safety
4-18
4.2.9 Recreational Services
4-18
4.2.10 Administrative Services
4-18
5.0 ESTIMATED DEMANDS
5-1
5.1
POPULATION
5-1
5.2
LOCAL OBJECTIVE CONCERNING GROWTH
5-4
5.3
FORESEEABLE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CHANGE
5-3
5.4
FUTURE LAND NEEDS
5-5
5.5
DEMAND FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
5-5
6.0 POLICY STATEMENTS
6-1
6.1
PURPOSE OF POLICY STATEMENTS
6-1
6.1.1 Background
6-1
6.1.2 Policy Format
6-2
6.2
COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT FOR NEXT TEN YEARS
6-2

ECTIONIDESCRIPTION PAGE
6.3 RESOURCE PROTECTION 6-3
- ------ - --- -- -- 6.3.1 Areas of Environmental Concern - - - -- - - - -- - - -- - —
-- -- ---
6.3.1.1 Estuarine System
6-3
(1) Coastal Wetlands
6-4
(2) Estuarine Waters
6-4
(3) Public Trust Areas
6-4
(4) Estuarine Shorelines
6-5
(4) Outstanding Resource Waters
6-5
6.3.1.2 Ocean Hazards Areas
6-5
6.3.2 Other Natural Fragile Areas
6-7
6.3.2.1 Coastal Complex Natural Areas
6-7
6.3.2.2 Areas that Sustain Remnant Species
6-7
6.3.2.3 Prime Wildlife Habitats
6-9
6.3.2.4 Protection of Wetlands
6-9
6.3.2.5 Maritime Forests and Tree Cover
6-10
6.3.2.6 Significant Archaeological and Historic Resources
6-10
6.3.2.7 Shellfishing Waters
6-11
6.3.2.8 Manmade Hazards
6-11
6.3.3 Constraints to Development
6-11
6.3.4 Protection of Potable Water Supplies
6-12
6.3.5 Use of Package Treatment Plants
6-12
6.3.6 Stormwater Runoff
6-12
6.3.7 Marina and Floating Home Development, Moorings, and Dry Stack Storage
6-14
6.3.8 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
6-I4
6.3.9 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
6-14
6.3.10 Restriction of Development in Areas Susceptible to Sea Level Rise
6-15
6.3.11 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
6-15
6.3.12 Installation of Bulkhead. Groins, and Seawalls
6-15
6.3.13 Surface Water Quality Problems
6-16
6.4 RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
6-16
6.4.1 Productive Agricultural Lands, Commercial Forest Lands, Existing and 6-17
Potential Mineral Production Areas
6.4.2 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries 6-17
6.4.3 Off -Road Vehicles 6-18
6.4.4 Residential. Commercial, and Industrial Land Development Impacts 6-18
on Any Resource
6.5 ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 6-19
6.5.1 Types of Development to be Encouraged 6-19
6.5.2 The Local Economy and Tourism 6-20
6.5.3 Types of Urban Growth Patterns Desired 6-20
6.5.4 Types. Density, and Location of Anticipated Residential Development 6-20
6.5.5 Types of Commercial and Institutional Development Desired 6-21
iv

SECTIONIDESCRIPTION
6.5.6 Redevelopment of Developed Areas
"���✓✓✓ 6.5.7 Types and Location of Industries Desired
6.5.8 Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development
6.5.9 Coastal and Estuarine Beach Access and Parking
6.5.10 Bicycle Traffic Improvements
6.5.11 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
6.5.12 Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Renourishment Policies
6.5.13 Energy Facility Siting and Development
6.6 CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
6.7 STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER RECOVERY,
AND EVACUATION PLANS
6.7.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation Policies
6.7.2 Evacuation
6.7.3 Post Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction Policies
PAGE
6-23
6-23
6-23
6-25
6-26
6-26
6-27
6-27
6-28
6-29
6-29
6-31
6-31
7.0
LAND CLASSIFICATION
7-1
7.1 PURPOSE OF LAND CLASSIFICATION
7-1
7.2 LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
7-1
7.2.1 Developed
7-1
7.2.2 Urban Transition
7-2
7.2.3 Conservation
7-3
7.2.4 Conservation Spoil
7-4
8.0
INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
8-1
9.0
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN AND SURVEY RESULTS
9-1
10.0
EVALUATION OF EFFECTIVENESS OF 1992 LAND USE PLAN
10-1
11.0
REFERENCES
11-1
o

LIST OF TABLES AND MAPS
TABLES PAGE
- - -- - Table 1.1: 1997 Population Estimates and 2007 Population Projections - -- - .- - — - --1-2 - for the Sunset Beach Planning Area
Table 3.1: Year-round Population for the Town of Sunset Beach and Brunswick County, 3-2
1970-1990
Table 3.2: Town of Sunset Beach Annexations, 1963-1996 3-3
Table 3.3: Sunset Beach Building Permits for New Construction, 1981-1996 3-4 A
Table 3.4: Town of Sunset Beach Subdivision Approvals, 1990 - 1996 3-5
Table 3.5: Year-round Population Estimates for the Town of Sunset Beach, 1997 3-7
Table 3.6: Sunset Beach Planning Area Seasonal Residential Population Estimates, 1997 3-9
Table 3.7: Sunset Beach Planning Area Seasonal Peak Residential Population Estimates. 1997 3-10
Table 3.8: Sunset Beach Planning Area Population Estimates, 1997
3-11
Table 3.9: Sunset Beach Assessed Valuations, 1981-1996
3-13
Table 3.10: Town of Sunset Beach Accommodation Tax, July 1990 - June 1996
3-14
Table 3.11: Characteristics of 14-digit Hydrological Units For the Sunset Beach Planning Area
3-15
Table 3.12: 1997 Residential Land Uses by Units
3-17
Table 3.13: Relocation of Houses on the Island of Sunset Beach, 1992-1996
3-18
Table 3.14: Land Development Summary, 1997
3-19
Table 3.15: Land Uses by Hydrological Units, February 1997
3-20
Table 4.1: Soil Characteristics for Sunset Beach Planning Area
4-3
Table 4.2: Rare Animals and Plant Species Located In the Sunset Beach Planning Area
4-11
Table 4.3: Town of Sunset Beach Water System Utilization, July 1988 - June 1996
4-15
Table 4.4: Average Daily Traffic Counts for Sunset Beach, 1995
4-16
Table 4.5: School Membership and Design Capacity, February 1997
4-17
Table 5.1: Year -Round Population Projections for the Sunset Beach Planning Area, 2002 and 2007
5-2
Table 5.2: Residential Population Projections for the Sunset Beach Planning Area, 2002 and 2007
5-3
., o

LIST OF DIAGRAMS AND FIGURES
Diagram 3.1: New Construction Building Permits Sunset Beach Planning Area, 1981-1996
Diagram 3.2: Housing Development on the Island of Sunset Beach, 1959 to 1996
Figure 3.1: NCTIP Transportation Improvements in the Sunset Beach Planning Area
MAPS
Map 1: Location of the Town of Sunset Beach, NC
Map 2: Existing Land Use, 1997
Map 3: Composite Hazards Area Map
Map 4: Land Classification Map
E9
oVii
PAGE
3-4
3-17
3-23 A and B
2-3
(Attached)
(Attached)
(Attached)

0
1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1 POPULATION GROWTH
Sunset Beach is located within one of the fastest growing regions of the United States. One must first
appreciate the growth of Brunswick County, NC and the Greater Myrtle Beach Area in order to
understand the projected growth for the Sunset Beach Planning Area. State projections released in
1997 reveal that Brunswick County's population increased by 11,826 residents since 1990 and 89
percent of this population growth was attributed to in migration. Brunswick County is now included
as part of the Wilmington metropolitan area. Between 1990 and 1996, the Wilmington -Brunswick
County region had the fastest growth rate of 20.4 percent in North Carolina with the Raleigh -Durham -
Chapel Hill area a close second with a growth rate of 19.6 percent. These two metropolitan areas are
the fastest growing regions in North Carolina with growth rates approximately twice the State growth
rate of 10.4 percent.
Sunset Beach is approximately 30 miles from Myrtle Beach and its growth and tourist economy are
directly related to the emergence of the Greater Myrtle Beach Area as one of the top tourist
destinations and retirement areas in the United States. Golfing is a key component of Myrtle Beach's
attraction. According to a 1996 listing obtained from the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,
there were 96 golf courses in the Greater Myrtle Beach Area including all 17 golf courses located
within Brunswick County which were operating as of this date. Estimates show that approximately
3.2 million paid rounds of golf were played in 1996 from golf packages and walk-ons in the Greater
Myrtle Beach Area as compared to 1.80 million in 1986. The State of South Carolina projects that
Horry County which includes most of the -Greater Myrtle Beach Area will grow from 144,053
residents in 1990 to 205,500 residents in 2000 to 305,200 residents in 2015.
Not surprisingly, Sunset Beach's rapid growth is projected to continue. Population and housing
projections are derived by using the rate of development. Since 1990, 1,066 new residential units
have been constructed within the Sunset Beach Planning Area for an average of 152.3 units per year
over this seven-year period. (Table 3.3) The amount of vacant land on the island is limited and build -
out is anticipated by 2007. However, there is sufficient vacant land on the mainland which will be
able to support this rate of development over the next ten years. Based on these rates of development,
the Sunset Beach Planning Area will have 896 new dwelling units by 2002 and 1,788 new units by
2007 (Table 5.2.) By the year 2002, it is projected that the Planning Area's year-round population will
be 1,333 with an additional 17,000 seasonal residents for a total of peak residential population of
18,333. By the year 2007, the Planning Area's year-round population will be 1,649 with an additional
20,344 seasonal residents for a total peak population of 21,993. Table 1.1 summarizes the 1997
population estimates and 2007 population projections for the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
1-1

TABLE 1.1
1997 POPULATION ESTIMATES AND 2007 POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA
1997 POPULATION ESTIMATES
Corporate
Limits
ETA
Planning Area
Total
YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS
862
154
1,016
SEASONAL OVERNIGHT VISITORS
12,552
1,079
13,631
RESIDENTIAL SUBTOTAL
13,414
1,233
14,647
BEACH DAY VISITORS
3,605
0
3,605
DAILY GOLFER AVERAGE
800
400
1,200
TOTAL PEAK POPULATION
17,819
1,633
19,452
2007 POPULATION PROJECTIONS
Island
Mainland
/ Eta
Planning Area
Total
YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS
358
1,291
1,649
SEASONAL OVERNIGHT VISITORS
11,244
9,100
20,344
TOTAL RESIDENTIAL POPULATION
11,602
10,391
21,993
Source: Hayes & Associates
1.2 COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT FOR NEXT TEN YEARS
The residents, property and business owners of the .Sunset Beach Planning Area shall endeavor
to preserve the small town character of our community with orderly growth which enhances its
appeal as a family resort and retirement community. Our goal is to preserve and improve the
quality of the natural and manmade environment which has become the basis for our quality of
life at .Sunset Beach.
1-2
Me

1.3 SUMMARY OF POLICY STATEMENTS FOR MAJOR ISSUES
The major planning issues identified by public input for the Town of Sunset Beach are:
• Growth Management (Policies 6.5.1, 6.5.3, 6.5.4, 6.5.5, 6.5.6, 6.5.7)
• Prevent High Rise Development on the Island (Policy 6.5.4)
• Density of Residential Development (Policies 6.5.1, 6.5.4, 6.5.6)
• Commercial Development (Policies 6.5.1, 6.5.2, 6.5.4, 6.5.6)
• Environmental Protection (All Resource Protection and Resource Production Policies)
• Conservation of Bird Island (Policy 6.3.2.2)
• Coastal Infrastructure (Policies 6.3.1.1-(2), 6.3.1.2, 6.3.2.7, 6.3.3, 6.3.5, 6.5.8)
• Stormwater Management (Policies 6.3.1.1-(4), 6.3.3.6, 6.3.7)
• One -Lane Pontoon Bridge (Policy 6.5.8)
1.3.1 Growth Management, Prevent High -Rise Development, Residential Density
Types of Development to Be Encouraged (Policy 6.5.1)
Sunset Beach believes in managing the Town's growth and development in balance with the
environment and the provision of municipal services As far as location of various types of
development is concerned, Sunset Beach desires as much as practicable that all development be
designed and placed so as to be compatible with its "small town" and residential character. All new
development will adhere to the Town's building and development regulations and to the density
requirements set forth in the Zoning Ordinance.
To protect the communi om adverse development and growth, the Town staff andpolicy makers
P t1'.f�' P S�' .� P y
will consider these factors when reviewing development plans:
• The suitability of land to accommodate the use;
• - The capacity of the environment;
• The compatibility of the land use with the goals and objectives of the Town;
• The density of the development and the proposed height of the structures;
• The capacity of community services in regard to the increasing demands imposed by
permanent and seasonal residents;
• The impact of the development upon Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's) and
other special and sensitive areas, as reflected in the policies for Resource Protection
and Resource Production and Management; and,
• The location of hazardous areas where there is a tendency for septic tank problems,
flooding, and washover.
The Town of Sunset Beach will institute annexation proceedings and the extension of the
extraterritorial limits in a timely manner in order to guide growth in the surrounding areas adjacent
to Sunset Beach.
1-3

The Town of Sunset Beach will periodically review the effectiveness of its land use regulations and
revise the ordinances as needed.
Tunes of Urban Growth Patterns Desired (Policy 6,5.3)
The Town shall support a small town growth pattern which reinforces the community's existing
residential and commercial areas and protects the environment.
Tvoes. Densitv, and Location of Anticinated Residential Develonment (Policv 6.5.4)
It shall be the policy of Sunset Beach to encourage the development of a variety of housing types
to meet the needs and desires of current and future citizens through the following:
• To maintain areas exclusively for conventional single-family dwellings for the growing
population on the island and the mainland,
• To retain the predominantly single-family residential character of the island. Conversion
of single-family homes to duplexes will be restricted to the residential lots bordering the
beach strand and the BB-1 zoning district.
• To retain a 35 foot height limitation for residential, commercial, and institutional structures
on the island.
• To allow multi family and condominium development within the golf course developments
and as permitted by zoning in the MB-1 and BB-1 commercial districts;
• To provide areas for mobile home and mam factured housing development on the mainland;
• As specified by the current zoning ordinance, the building height on the mainland will
predominantly be 35 feet with the exception of a 50 foot building height maximum limit for
multi family units in the MR-3 zoning district. With the exception of the MR-3 zoning
district, there is a provision in the other mainland zoning districts that the building height
maybe adjusted by 2 feet for every additional foot it is situated from the front and side
setback requirements.
The Planning Board and Town Council will study the feasibility of establishing a 50 foot building
height limitation on the mainland which may only be changed by a public referendum.
The Planning Board and Town Council will study the feasibility of establishing residential density
limitations per acre for each Zoning District and will determine the feasibility of revising the
subdivision and zoning ordinances to promote conservation of natural areas Cluster housing as
permitted by the Planned Residential Development regulations will be studied.
Redevelopment of Developed Areas (Polic�6.5.6J
It is the policy of the Town to allow redevelopment of previously developed areas including the
relocation of endangered structures Sunset Beach supports replacement of aging structures as a
positive reuse of land resources which enhances the Town as a whole. Such redevelopment may be
permitted as long as the activity complies with the spirit and intent of existing regulatory
requirements. It is the Town's policy that density allowances for redevelopment areas conform to
existing Town building and zoning regulations
1-4

1.3.2 Commercial Development (Policies 6.5.1 previously cited, 6.5.2, 6.5.5, 6.5.7)
The Local Economy and Tourism (Policy 6.5.2)
--- -Sunset Beach will continue to support and promote tourism as its main economic base while -
preserving the small town character of the community with quality growth which enhances its appeal
as a family resort aril retirement community. The goal is to preserve and improve the quality of the
natural and manmade environment which has become the basis for our quality of life at Sunset
Beach which makes it so attractive for residents and visitors alike.
Types of Commercial and Institutional Development Desired (Policy 6.5.5)
The Town wishes to enhance and promote quality commercial development through thefollowing:
• Sunset Beach's economic base consists mainly of services pertaining to tourism. Intense
commercial development beyond that necessary to serve tourists and the year-round
population will not be encouraged. There is sufficient land zoned for commercial
development to meet the projected needs of the seasonal and year-round population through
2007.
• The Town will continue to enforce its current development ordinances and local building
permit process in order to achieve a desired balance between commercial and residential
development. Adequate buffering between residential and commercial development will be
required Requests for additional commercial zoning will be carefully evaluated in terms
of the needs of the community for such development.
• The Town will encourage commercial development to locate in designated commercial nodes
S' P �
in order to avoid strip commercial development. The designated commercial node on the
island is the BB-1 district bordering Sunset Boulevard and on the mainland the major
commercial node is the MB-1 commercial district at the NC 904 and NC 179 intersection.
• The rezoning of MB-1 tracts to the Mainland Professional Zoning District will be
encouraged. The Mainland Professional District will be limited to professional business
such as architects, accountants, doctors, lawyers, and engineers The Mainland
Professional District could be more attractively landscaped, require fewer signs, and would
be more compatible with adjoining residential districts.
• The appearance of commercial development will be enhanced by the enforcement of stricter
sign and landscaping regulations.
• The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to support the efforts of the Sunset Beach
Beautification Committee, a civic group who landscapes and beautifies public areas within
the Town and the efforts of volunteers who pick up litter on the beach and mainland
1-5

• With the exception of churches, institutional use in Sunset Beach is now limited to those
government and utility sites necessary to provide adequate services to the Town and its
Planning Area. This land use pattern will continue. The Town of Sunset Beach should
encourage -land use compatibility between institutional development and neighboring___
residential and/or commercial development.
Types and Location of Industries Desired (Policy 6.5.7)
"Industry" in the traditional manufactztring/processing/production sense will not be allowed at
Sunset Beach.
Marina and Floating Home Development. Moorings, and Dry Stack Storage (Policy 6.3.7)
The development of marinas, private boat slips, and dry stack storage facilities in the Sunset Beach
Planning Area is generally supported in concept. Commercial marinas and boat dry -stacking
storage facilities are not currently permitted uses and the zoning ordinance would have to be
modified before such development could occur. Upland excavation for marina basins will not be
allowed Moorings must conform to all CAMA and State regulations In recent years, Sunset Beach
and other coastal communities have become increasingly concerned over the issue of `floating
homes, " i. e., waterborne vessels used not only as "boats" but as permanent domiciles. In Sunset
Beach, the issue of floating homes has not been a significant problem. The Town is supportive of
the State's policies on floating structures and believes that floating homes should not be allowed
within its Public Trust Areas In order to minimize environmental impact, the Town of Sunset Beach
prefers dry -boat stacking storage rather than wet slip marinas.
1.3.3 Conservation of Bird Island
Areas That Sustain Remnant Species and Preservation of Bird Island Policy 6.3.2.2)
Areas that contain remnant species will be classified as Conservation for the 1997 CAAM Land Use
Update Classification Map. All development plans for areas that contain remnant species will be
carefidly reviewed prior to the issuance of development permits in order to protect the habitat.
The Town of Sunset Beach supports efforts by the State, the Bird Island Preservation Society, the
Coastal Land Trust, the Natural Heritage Trust Fund, and other conservation groups to acquire
Bird Island through purchase in order to preserve the island as a natural sanctuary.
The Town of Sunset Beach supports the efforts of the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation
Association to protect and enhance the Twin Lakes area.
1.3.4 Coastal Infrastructure
Estuarine Waters (Policy 6.3.1.1- (2,�
In recognition of the importance of estuarine waters for the fisheries and related industries as well
as aesthetics and recreation, Sunset Beach shall promote the conservation and quality of this
resource. Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures which prevent erosion,
1-6

navigational channels, boat docks, piers, and mooring pilings which are consistent with 1 S NCAC
7H. The proposed centralized sewer system shall be encouraged as a means to eliminate pollution
from ma functioning or inadequate septic systems and/ or package treatment plants The
development of boat launching and dry -storage boat docking facilities shall be supported as a
means of providing public water access provided that their development shall not adversely impact
estuarine resources or Public Trust Areas. Floating structures as defined in Policy 6.3.8 shall be
banned in order to protect our estuarine and Public Trust Areas. The Town will support those
projects which will increase the productivity of the estuary such as oyster reseeding or dredging
projects which will increase the flushing actions of tidal movements in Jinks and Blaine Creeks.
Ocean Hazard Area (Policy 6.3.1.2,E
Development of growth-itulucing public facilities such as sewers, water lines, public roads, bridges,
and erosion control measures shall only be permitted in the cases where:
• National and state interest and public benefits are clearly the overriding factor.
• Facilities would not exacerbate existing hazards or damage natural barriers.
• Facilities would be reasonably safe from flood and erosion related damage.
Facilities would not promote growth in ocean hazard areas previously not platted
and recorded.
• Development will not create undue interference with the legal rights to public access
and the use of such areas. .
Development of growth -inducing facilities such as public sewers, public water lines, public roads,
and public bridges shall not be permitted in CBRA areas
h llfi hip (Policy 6.3.2.1)
The Town supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shel#7sh Management Program. The
Town promotes water quality through its stormwater ordinance and participation in the stormwater
management and regional sewer system now being planned and implemented by the South Brunswick
Water and Sewer Authority (SBWSA).
Constraints to Development (Policy 6.3.3)
Until such time as a central sewerage collection and disposal system is developed, growth and
development will be restricted to those which receive the appropriate septic permits issued by the
Brunswick County Health Department or are serviced by a private utility or package plant. All
septic tanks must be in compliance with State Health Regulations as permitted by the Brunswick
County Health Department. Off -site septic systems have been a longstanding development practice
in Sunset Beach and such systems will be permitted until such time that a sewer system is developed
Development may be constructed in areas with limitations for building foundations only if corrective
measures for stabilizing foundations are incorporated into the building design.
All new construction and substantial improvements in the 100 year flood zones must comply strictly
to the Town's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance which has been adopted in conjunction with
1-7

Sunset Beach's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Use of Package Treatment Plants.(Policy 6.3.51
It shall be the policy of Sunset Beach to allow package treatment plants where they are deemed ---- -
necessary and if they can be constructed with the overall intent of this plan and meet all federal and
state environmental regulations. If and when centralized sewer facilities are made available to
areas served by package plants, the hookup to the sewer facilities will be required, and the package
plant(s) eliminated. Off -site package plants as permitted by the Brunswick County Health
Department will be allowed until such time that a sewer system is developed.
1.3.5 Stormwater Management (Policies 6.3.1.1- (4), 6.3.6 cited previously, 6.3.6, 6.5.8)
(4) Estuarine Shorelines
Suitable land uses within the estuarine shorelines are those compatible with both the dynamic nature
of estuarine shorelines and the value of the estuarine system. Sunset Beach recognizes the close
association between estuarine shorelines and the adjacent estuarine waters; the influence that
shoreline development has on the quality of estuarine life; and that the damaging processes of
shorefront erosion and flooding to which the estuarine shoreline is subject. Within the Estuarine
Shoreline Area, the Town of Sunset Beach believes that certain developed uses should only be
permitted which are consistent with 15 NCAC 7H and as further defined by the Towns building,
development and stormwater ordinances, and which satisfy the following requirements: I)natural
barriers to erosion are not weakened or eliminated; 2) development does not interfere with present
public access; 3) the amount of runoff is unchanged; 4) no pollution is generated; S) standards of
the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Act of 1973, amended 1990, are upheld; 6) the
construction of impervious s7irfaces and areas not allowing natural drainage is limited to that
necessary for development, and stormwater management provisions of the Town Ordinances and
SBWSA are upheld.
Stormwater Runoff (Policy 6.3.6)
Stormwater runoff from new development will be reduced by enacting improved stormwater control
regulations The Town of Sunset Beach encourages the use of "innovative " systems which encourage
the use of pervious or semi pervious materials and the retention of natural vegetation which
functions as a filter to minimize the rapid release of pollutants to coastal waters through stormwater
runoff. The general intent of the stormwater regulations will be to encourage the percolation of
stormwater into the ground and avoid direct discharge of stormwater into the coastal waters
The proposed centralized sewer system is supported as a means to eliminate runoff of surfaced
effluent from malfunctioning or inadequate on -site septic systems.
The Town will review its current drainage system and determine optimal improvements on a site by
site basis.
Stormwater management planning can best be handled on a regional drainage basis. The Town of '
1-8

Sunset Beach supports the regional comprehensive stormwater management plan by the South
Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority. This plan includes the entire Sunset Beach Planning Area.
Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development (Policy 6.5.81
As areas develop, it is the policy of the Town that the developer/owner share, in the financial
responsibility of providing basic utility services such as water. Water pressure problems on the
island during the peak season will be corrected by the installation of a new 12-inch water line to the
island. Property owners will be required to connect to the centralized sewer system once services
become available.
In order to protect the quality of its coastal waters, the Town of Sunset Beach will pursue developing
a centralized sewerage treatment and collection system with the South Brunswick Water and Sewer
Authority.
In order to protect its coastal waters, the Town of Sunset Beach will enforce its stormwater
management ordinance and will support the development of a regional stormwater management
system with SBWSA.
To promote public safety, the Town of Sunset Beach supports improved bridge access to the island
by the construction of the NCDOT preferred alternative of a high-rise bridge. As stated in
resolutions passed on October 11, 1982 and June 4,1996, the Town Council of Sunset Beach
supports the efforts of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to provide better access
to the island by the construction of a high rise bridge and "urgently requests that this project be
given the highest priority to remove this peril (the one -lane pontoon bridge) from our town. "
The Town of Sunset Beach in cooperation with the Volunteer Fire Department will implement
measures to improve the Townsfire insurance rating which will reduce fire insurance premiums
for property owners.
The Town will continue to provide at least weekly domestic garbage collection by contracting with
private companies. The Town urges Brunswick County to develop a cost-efficient solid waste
disposal system which meets the needs of local and county governments and is designed so as not
to adversely impact significant natural or manmade resources.
1.3.6 One -Lane Pontoon Bridge
Local Commitment to Providing Services to Development (Policy 6, 81
To promote public safety, the Town of Sunset Beach supports improved bridge access to the island
by the construction of the NCDOT preferred alternative of a high-rise bridge. As stated in
resolutions passed on October 11, 1982 and June 4,1996, the Town Council of Sunset Beach
supports the efforts of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to provide better access
to the island by the construction of a high rise bridge and "urgently requests that this project be
1-9

given the highest priority to remove this peril (the one -lane pontoon bridge) from our town." n
1.3.7 Remaining Policies Concerning Environmental Protection /
Areas of Environmental Concern ( Policy 6.&JI
The Town will support and enforce through its CAMA minor permitting capacity the State policies
and permitted uses in Areas of Environmental Concern (AFC's). Such uses shall be in accord with
the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine shorelines, and public
trust areas as stated in ISA NCAC Subchapter 7H. The Town supports the major and general
permitting process as implemented by the North Carolina Division of Coastal Management.
Estuarine System (Policies 6.3.1.1)
(1) Coastal Wetlands
Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estuarine waters and in
providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the Town strongly supports the designation and preservation
of all remaining coastal wetlands and freshwater marshes. It shall be the policy of Sunset Beach
to restrict land uses in coastal wetlands and freshwater marshes to those that ensure wetland
conservation and which do not affect their delicate balance. Sunset Beach shall permit water
dependent uses such as docks, boat ramps, piers, utility easements, and culverts, consistent with the
definition and use standards of 15 NCAC 7H. Each proposed use will be evaluated for water
dependency. Unacceptable land uses may include, but would not be limited to restaurants,
businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, floating structures, private roads, and parking
lots In some instances, it may be necessary and in the public interest for public roads to transverse
wetland areas. Where this is absolutely necessary, state and federal regulations may allow such with
certain safeguards and/or mitigation measures.
(2) Estuarine Waters
In recognition of the importance of estuarine waters for the fisheries and related industries as well
as aesthetics and recreation, Sunset Beach shall promote the conservation and quality of this
resource. Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures which prevent erosion,
navigational channels, boat docks, piers, and mooring pilings which are consistent with 15 NCAC
7H.0208. The proposed centralized sewer system shall be encouraged as a means to eliminate
pollution from ma functioning or inadequate septic systems and/ or package treatment plants The
development of boat launching and dry -storage boat docking facilities shall be supported as a
means of providing public water access provided that their development shall not adversely impact
estuarine resources or Public Trust Areas. Floating structures as defined in Policy 6.3.8 shall be
banned in order to protect our estuarine and Public Trust Areas. The Town will support those
projects which will increase the productivity of the estuary such as oyster reseeding or dredging
projects which will increase theflushing lushing actions of tidal movements in Jinks and Blaine Creeks.
(3,) Public Trust Areas
The State of North Carolina and the Town of Sunset Beach hold its beaches and waters in public
1-10

trust and promotes public access to these areas In the absence of overriding public benefit, any use
which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust rights which
apply in the area shall not be allowed. Projects which would directly or indirectly block or impair
----- - navigational channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause
adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality stw dards, or cause degradation of shel�7sh
waters shall not be allowed For the Town of Sunset Beach, a navigational channel will be defined
as any water channel which is passable by boats during high tide. Permanent obstruction of these
navigational channels will not be allowed. Improvements such as bridges and docks must be built
to allow boating access according to State regulations. Uses allowed in Public Trust Areas shall
be in accordance with NCAC 7H.0208(b)(1) and shall not be detrimental to the public trust rights
and the biological and physical functions of the estuary. Examples of such uses include the
development of navigational channels or drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent erosion,
and the building of piers or docks.
I'4) Estuarine Shorelines
Suitable land uses within the estuarine shorelines are those compatible with both the dynamic nature
of estuarine shorelines and the value of the estuarine system. Sunset Beach recognizes the close
association between estuarine shorelines and the adjacent estuarine waters; the influence that
shoreline development has on the quality of estuarine life; and that, the damaging processes of
shorefront erosion and flooding to which the estuarine shoreline is subject. Within the Estuarine
Shoreline Area, the Town of Sunset Beach believes that certain developed uses should only be
permitted which are consistent with 15 NCAC 7H and as further defined by the Town's building,
development and stormwater ordinances, and which satisfy the following requirements: 1) natural
barriers to erosion are not weakened or eliminated; 2) development does not interfere with present
public access, 3) the amount of runoff is unchanged; 4) no pollution is generated; S) standards of
the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Act of 1973, amended 1990, are upheld, 6) the
construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing natural drainage is limited to that
necessary for development, and stormwater management provisions of the Town Ordinances and
SBWSA are upheld.
Development of estuarine system islands shall be permitted only if proper measures are taken by the
developer to provide for sufficient hurricane evacuation, utilities provision, access on and off the
island, pollution control, and other design considerations that will ensure compatibility of the
development with the estuarine systems.
Ocean Hazards Areas (Policy 6.3.=
Generally, all land uses in the area classified under the Ocean Hazards category which are the
ocean erodible, high hazard flood, and inlet hazard areas for Sunset Beach shall be consistent with
the requirements of existing State, Federal, and local regulations, and the Sunset Beach Zoning
Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan, the Town's
requirements for the National Flood Insurance Program, and the Town's building set back line.
Suitable land uses in ocean hazard areas are generally those which eliminate unreasonable danger

of life and property, and which achieves a balance between the financial, safety, and social factors
involved in hazard area development. Residential and recreational land uses and parking lots for
beach access are also acceptable types of use in ocean hazard areas provided that:
For small structures such as residences, setback measurements begirt at the first line -
of stable, natural vegetation and continue inland to a depth 60 times the average
annual erosion rate.
• Development does not involve the removal or relocation of frontal dune sand or
vegetation thereon.
• Mobile homes are not allowed within the high hazardflood lood areas on the island and
on the mainland must conform to federal flood insurance regulations and standards
established in the North Carolina Building Code. .
• Development is consistent with minimum lot sizes and setback requirements
established by local regulations.
• Development implements means and methods to mitigate or minimize adverse
impacts of the project on the environment and protect the habitat of threatened and
endangered plant and animal species.
Development of growth -inducing pitblic facilities such as sewers, water lines, public roads, bridges,
and erosion control measures shall only be permitted in the cases where:
• National and state interest and public benefits are clearly the overriding factor.
• Facilities would not exacerbate existing hazards or damage natural barriers.
• Facilities would be reasonably safe from flood and erosion related damage.
• Facilities would not promote growth in ocean hazard areas previously not platted
and recorded.
• Development will not create uidue interference with the legal rights to public access
and the use of such areas.
Development of growth -inducing facilities such as public sewers, public water lines, public roads,
and public bridges shall not, be permitted in CBRA areas such as Bird island.
Sunset Beach continues to support comprehensive shoreline management such as the Corps of
Engineers beach renourishment projects as the preferred control measure to combat oceanfront
erosion. When existing dunes are "added to" this shall be accomplished in a manner which
minimizes damage to existing vegetation and which establishes one continuous dune line. Any areas
filled will be replanted immediately or stabilized temporarily until planting can be successfully
completed The Town of Sunset Beach implements a beach renourishment plait to encourage dune
stabilization. The Town plants and fertilizes American beach grass and installs sand fencing along
the dunes
Prior to the issuance of any permit for development in the Ocean AEC's, there should be written
acknowledgment from the applicant that he is aware of the risks associated tit that area and whether.
participation in the Federal Flood Insurance Program is possible.
1-12

Prime Wildlife Habitats (Policy 6.3.2.3)
The prime wildlife habitats in the Sunset Beach Planning Area are currently classified as Areas of
Environmental Concern. The Town will continue to protect its prime wildlife habitats by enforcing
the CAMA major and minor permitting program. The Town of Sunset Beach supports the efforts
of the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation Association to protect and enhance the Twin Lakes area.
Protection of Wetlands (Policy 6.3.2.4)
The Town of Sunset Beach supports the preservation of wetlands through the enforcement of 404
regulations.
Maritime Forests and Tree Cover.( Policy 6.3.2.5)
Tree cover at Sunset Beach, whether maritime or otherwise, is a highly valued asset. The Town
encourages efforts to preserve tree cover in new development and redevelopment. The Town
promotes the planting of trees and natural areas in its landscaping regulations and subdivision
ordinance. The Sunset Beach Planning Board will study the feasibility of adopting a tree ordinance
which promotes the conservation of trees.
Constraints to Development (Policy 6.3.3)
Until such time as a central sewerage collection and disposal system is developed, growth and
development will not be permitted in areas where septic tanks will not function. All septic tanks must
be in compliance with State Health Regulations through administration by the Brunswick County
Health Department. Off -site septic systems have been a longstanding development practice in
Sunset Beach and such systems will be permitted until such time that a sewer system is developed
Development m be constructed in areas with limitations or buildin oundations only i corrective
P may .f gf Y .f
measures for stabilizing foundations are incorporated into the building design.
All new construction and substantial improvements in the 100 year flood zones must comply strictly
to the Town's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance which has been adopted in conjunction with
Sunset Beach's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Protection of Potable Water Supplies (Policy 6.3.4)
Sources of potable surface and groundwater for the Sunset Beach Planning Area shall be protected
to the maximum extent possible.
1A SUMMARY OF LAND CLASSIFICATION
The Sunset Beach Land Classification system is described fully in Section 7.0. and is shown on Map
4: The Land Classification Map which is attached Four land classifications are utilized in the Sunset
Beach Planning Area:
Developed: This land classification provides for continued intensive development and
redevelopment of existing urban areas. Areas so designated are currently urban in character
where minimal undeveloped land remains and have in place or are scheduled for the timely
1-13

provision of the usual municipal or public services. Urban in character includes mixed land
uses at high to moderate densities. Most of the developed areas on the island and mainland
are designated as "Developed."
• Urban Transition: The purpose of this class is to provide for future intensive urban
development on suitable lands that will be provided with the necessary urban services to
support intensive urban development. These areas are presently being developed for urban
purposes or will be developed in the next five to ten years to accommodate anticipated
population and urban growth. The lands in the Sunset Beach Planning Area which are
classified as urban transitions are those vacant land areas adjacent to currently developed areas
on the island and the mainland, including the extraterritorial area. This includes some areas
where lots have been platted as well as some vacant tracts on the mainland.
• Conservation: The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term
management and protection of significant, limited or irreplaceable areas. Management is
needed due to the natural, cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both
local and more than local concern. Areas meeting the intent of this classification include:
AFC's, including but not limited to public trust waters, estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, etc.
Also included are other similar lands, environmentally significant because of their natural role
in the integrity of the coastal region.
Conservation Ste: This is a subclass of conservation and will be used to classify land which
would generally be suited foe use as spoil areas for the maintenance of major waterways, but
not for other uses. This would include areas used, or to be used, by the US Army Corps of
Engineers for dredge spoil deposition.
1-14

2.0 INTRODUCTION
2.1 WHY PREPARE A CAMA LAND USE PLAN?
The North Carolina Coastal Area Management -Act of 1974, better known as "CAMA", requires
that the 20 counties located in the State's coastal region and their respective municipalities prepare
Land Use Plans. These land use plans, although developed according to State -provided
guidelines, allow local governments to establish and enforce policies to guide and manage growth
and development of their communities. Local land use plans were developed initially in 1974-
1976. The plans were to have a 10-year outlook in terms of projecting population, economic,
land use, and community facility trends. However, because of the social, economic, and
environmental dynamics of the coastal area, the State guidelines require that all plans be updated
every five years. Such periodic updates permit local governments to reflect upon previously
developed policies to see how they relate to newly emerging trends.
Such is the case with the Town of Sunset Beach. The Town of Sunset Beach was incorporated in
1963 and is located in southeastern Brunswick County as shown on Map 1. The Town's initial
CAMA Land Use Plan was prepared in 1976 with updates being completed in 1980, 1987, and
1992. As indicated in the previous plans, population growth which requires an increasing
utilization of land and resources can lead to undesirable consequences if the land and community.
facilities are unregulated or improperly managed. Sunset Beach, through the development and
subsequent updating of its Land Use policy document and enforcement of existing local controls,
is seeking to avoid the negative impacts of unmanaged growth.
2.2 FUNCTIONS OF THE LAND USE PLAN
The CAMA Land Use Planning Process is a chance for the Town of Sunset Beach and its citizens
to participate in the design of their Town's future. This Plan looks ahead, estimating expected
growth and development demands. The Plan examines land suitability and the capacity of the
existing infrastructure such as the water distribution system and road system to see how well the
town can handle projected growth. It examines the existing natural resources, natural hazards,
and watersheds. Local government officials work with the planners, its boards, and the public to
set goals for growth management and then craft policies and implementation measures to carry
out this vision for the Planning Area of the Town of Sunset Beach. Moreover, the plan's
technical studies provide information on a number of topics, including population, environmental
features, land use trends, the local economy, and community facility needs. Once the governing
body adopts the plan, it has a foundation for guiding future decisions on budgets and ordinances,
including zoning and subdivision regulations.
2.3 COMPONENTS OF THE CAMA LAND USE PLAN
This planning document will closely adhere to the CAMA planning guidelines as contained in
Subchapter 7B (as amended) of the State Administrative Codes. Four major components which
are required to be in the Land Use Plan document are as follows:
Data Collection and Analysis: This is an analysis of the existing patterns and trends
within the Town's jurisdiction as far as population, the economy, land use, community
facilities, environmental, and other resources. Section 3.0 of this report examines the
present conditions of Sunset Beach. Section 4.0 describes the environmental constraints
and examines the capacity of the community facilities in terms of projected growth.
2-1

MAP 1.1: LOCATION OF SUNSET BEACH, NC
e7 Come• 13 Olive.
/•_.+•e 1 ' - f >'.•.,
�a99 M,kuryltes. - - 10 • '. , - - Z • _. - .. `.t _ _ - -. _ •. 7 SJ _ . 99 - .. . - _ ]- Tuscarora.A�
x �^ 301 16 ! �` r i�l3 jatt--_ \12.. Run ;--
1ti ' a03
}._58
WTp . �_' —' Kearea
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_----:'VILLE ` Ia2 8 25r JONES ^^•J-,-N Rhems
'"` Pink • _
• �M SAMPSON 9• Bowdem KomegaY tt Pleasam ,
I7 50 - a 6 e HIII Hitl Tremors
Cum- t " Vander 2_ Salemburg ei ��� DUPLIN -
- ' Rockfish •berland AUV W119 9 Clinton Warsaw 10 ✓ C0Rd0 t ,! � �
se -•-.;} • .. Turkey KBnanS- „ tt ttl 9 PH�tl� t, mat �/ ��^tt • ��rs
• Raeford Sm 2: /, ; 5, enaVille - - zai _
pur,dar.. Hope m--t'r:� ' 3 Euiott S • = 10 7 1 .NOB^'ae r0 x 6 Gorra zc ,, Mills Cedar 26 Roseboro ` I . Pe1g ^-L
I1t n ` Parktan a� x0n Creek 2to' �. 6 EM 7 �\ Ie .. l \ ..i "_�
Lumber
xh t2 dpe 7, 10 - Lena sa / all lot p•;- ida0nol;3 ©18 50 to et Beulawlle Rich• i fare57 Belgrade' a� lq
g 20 CUMBERLAND _
g _ Porkers- 15 to 19 iB e 1 L an Faun- IandS I ;, \
Rex - bur / 903 Green- tam C.,..,,.e 58
,Tober- _ 9 sue- Rose
rings 0n ,me t 301 ••mory t, 3t.e 20/ klgold e7• t0 Hill eVefS Clnnauapin 111 t,.e! ., Lj\.
Renner[® 20..ozes,,, Ammon '<_ 6 117 at Carhamte .•�- \. " L. ,.
yua ` _ Am 11 Gad end 903 oelwav o `Kuhin
is Pa_c 1 it u,e White \�- 3 TeacheYo r taI +eze 7' Lake , / Snwrdale
Ito Ia2 - ail •'11 a1 ONSLOW `� • Jacksonvitl: st
i 11 \H Oak : 81 (ekes \ I Hanellsli 1a • 3 50 Cypress
11 P, \Buie •;,�, 53 \ 8 10 Wallace finG1Y _O Creek S3 �.��,_-,�,� M'dwaYpad' P•
broke 211 '\ - L •Wy / at Tomahawk , i WOaM a' 17 Haws w7e- `PI_ `n�—: •_::
"\t2 72 M ROBESON 13t a7 \` r8 a i' Run ++ox
1 \ t wnee b \ Green Hw E ` -
7,Pendedea t 1 :J•Nani
• al ♦ \ �i ��. a nos Verona -
Id •Watha is / Made 1g Ilpate 'r'ri
�'' LumOertOn%� Elizabeth- �LakeSt 10 • ' �+.i Adarme /
III RaYn• _ g ^town t Stare h2Nae \ 53 NrA 50 C i �e if •+. t
Ium 6 BN�amy : " .-ate forest ' \` _ \ Dion ♦G.aiE ._ 22 171 /, tv..,•
20BUfgaw Fork-
7 ~ / i
MCOonald�'- BLADEN 17., -It• 1
72 Baden- gbborts. - Atkinson 10 - • PENDER \•
KitcoaK^ �t0 53 11 15 . \ none Sneads.l
UNrra,xas bOfO bur n,x i' - Wards 9 • a
...., "^� FaIfRlOflt, - 9g. Lshon �9'Yr 53 Cwner 9 _ ` < >1 ,w•. a.••a.'n
•• 130 9 Proctorvilla f - Clarkton 87 I. \ 5
�. is Ken 1= a El H°BYRidge rlce"
it \� / J 131 Carvers - y .- Currie j I Rocky /' '''North Topsail Beach
/ 90a a7 Oman �p.2`r �' `� a 3 �{ 1a lu
am 7 Boardm'ar ato g ' e ts.. _-10 Point 210 3 Sutf. ' De1Ma
LOCK , Saw*
7 xxn ' green 77 \ o'Councd 10 •� x0I 210 Moores ' ? ;
:ne Games-''ty tx t3 COLU 48US a r, East �. CreekNat7- %:,y' 133 6 1 Hamp- CRY7
9 Mariana tone : Arcadia - �,: 1 stead
5 xx56 i - 2.2' 7 _ 1 a • Whitevii'? 12" �-_ Battlefield .,, iCastle. :' 50
- ; a ` s n` -- _ d 6 '- �� Hayn� Scotts .:;% Topsail Bead,
•(kyle a lake e _ - 130 • ,o . n Riegelwood-- ,,` H�tl �•.,
-Pee Dee Yew o . c Aeme 7 ✓ vwroeaafww
r pk xe „ Fair Cerro had. �: Hallsboro Lake ohon Free r ' 0 t7
efk� e . ` Bluff Gordo 15 boom Blwwmck Waccamaw man Del 7e 1 . ; u Phoenix •. ?� .t y �
ao t.r..v,r,•+,,. Maco 7- Leland tc n ..�
6 ,PC Ch at0 130 L0 - aver
Nichols - e Grove
- '(eke Wattamaw �
s j Grove Cnlar�endon t1 to Park �JtVJiimin to a . d• 7a �/ NEW HANOVER ! -
a Sidney eos :` Pd"d Bishop _ �, ti• nr.r ,,Wrightsville Beach
13 20 n g 1 Mollie Old i 211 Town Creek u: yr A
9 , Ta°�r w;; ' �� - �. r7aasonea•a,w
a; g17 ntM ' Nakina OOCk / � 24 - Wwrabow W 13 /N
Green Sea p06 IronHO „n a /i• tom. )421
Ariel rosaroad2 y -\ 130 BRUNSWICK - ^`f 87
Galrvams i 6 e 7 BW- Ash Sunny Pi. E Saabraaze
� Ferry Y7 Loris \ Dulah th'n '✓ Bolivia 17 Ordnance
2 in,ee hvw •
A 10 • t3o �= ili CarolktaBeachStPIL
BaYbom - \ 7 Pneway 21 Shal• , Supply Boiling ;, I • /Carolina Beach A
Ay. G-,--1 Cod )-c.-. ( Atlsbf00k x . �� ,! L��atte� � Spring Lakes tz\ _ I 'Wilmington Beach
/ bSpnn9 rJ Q g 6 ` 9YONMie 904 • / 217 '
0 1g'AH,.c'k
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one Ham Longs �coAr 130 Vamam� Sunset t7 i fcFsher$[HltSrte
C� La:a- Mown H +a77 �'" ^ 1d 2 179 9 ' arbor 905 ^ 20 L:tLe Q ' See-
6 �. _ .... SauthPcrt i
/ Grove , -� �_�.. • .. co.,rc..• m,n
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�BaIA � Isknd
• Comva; 22 90 t`� S,•tsatBeat}, aach ••'S 'aataNtro
,\ NixormOe 1 CI+•nY Grove Beatl1 s w1 -6uW
xs 5„ ♦ \ � ►a%"P N MYrt►a Beach AAtlarft Beach
• 4 `t ,i Todd- 10
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+µlP•"� '
t: - -
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= ,3 ,Myrtle BeachA
you• , i
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enersv,ne��sdNor �ry,. .. /Garden City Beach
uttNa , / Murrells Inlet
Gardetrs / - - - .
Litchfield Beach
•YI r /'
� • _ •,,- - � SUNSET BEACH, NC
2-3

• Existing Land Use Map Map 2, which is attached in the back of this report, shows the
existing land use of Sunset Beach as of 1997.
• Policy Identification. Policy Statements, and Implementation: Based on a thorough___.__._
- - - - analysis of existing conditions, trends; and developments, Section 6.0 states the policy of
the Town on a number of important issues.
Land Classification Map.;, Map 4 is the Land Classification Map and is attached to the
back of this report. This map is intended to be a reflection of the Town's land use policies,
based upon the projected density of development, for all the lands within its jurisdiction.
A number of data sources were utilized in the effort to analyze the population, housing, economic,
environmental, and land use conditions in Sunset Beach. Various state, county, and local agencies
were contacted for both general and specific detailed information. Technical reports, previous
land use plans, the 1990 Census, and other documents were reviewed as well. Extensive efforts
were used to obtain citizen participation. In November 1996, a survey was mailed to 2,900
property owners in the Town and the extraterritorial area. Nearly 1,000 surveys were returned
which is an excellent response rate of 34 percent. The results are summarized in Section 9.0.
Issues were further identified during two public meetings conducted on March 27 and July 28,
1997. The major planning issues identified by public input for the Town of Sunset Beach are:
• Prevent High Rise Development on the Island
• Growth Management
• Environmental Protection
• Density of Residential Development
• Centralized Sewer
• Conservation of Bird Island
• Stormwater Management
Other issues are also identified and addressed in other sections of this planning document.
2-2

3.0 PRESENT CONDITIONS
3.1 POPULATION
-- --- - - The beginning point of analysis for any Land Use Plan is an assessment of the population trends —
and patterns. For residential resort communities like Sunset Beach which are heavily impacted by
seasonal fluctuations, this analysis can be rather complicated. However, many land use and
growth management policies relate to the number of people expected to use the land and/or public
facilities. The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines require, logically, that the "peak" seasonal
population be considered by barrier island communities as the basis for public facilities. Both the
year-round or permanent population and the seasonal population trends for Sunset Beach are
analyzed. Estimates for beach and golfing day visitors are also given.
3.1.1 Year-round Population
Sunset Beach, like other resort communities, experiences a wide fluctuation of population
according to the season. Although the year-round population has always been relatively small, it
has been steadily growing and more than doubled between 1980 and 1990. . The Town was
incorporated in 1963 and made its first showing in the 1970 U.S. Census with a permanent
population of 108 persons. In 1980, however, the U.S. Census showed a year-round population
of 304 persons. The Town subsequently disagreed with this total and adopted revised population
figures for the years 1980 and 1985 for planning purposes in the 1987 CAMA Land Use Plan
Update. It was estimated that in 1980 the year-round population .of the Town was 140 and that
the year-round population rose to 180 in 1985. The 1990 U.S. Census reported 311 year-round
residents within the Town's limits and town officials agreed with this census count. The 1992
CAMA Land Use Plan estimated that the year-round population for the Town was 491 residents
and 783 for the entire Planning Area. The North Carolina Office of State Planning estimated the
1995 town population to be 738. Table 3.1 details the population characteristics for the Town
and Brunswick County.
The year-round population growth at Sunset Beach is somewhat consistent with the strong
overall growth trends in Brunswick County, which grew by 47.7 percent between 1970 and 1980
and by 42.5 percent between 1980 and 1990. Over the twenty-year period between 1970 and
1990, Brunswick County had a significant population growth of I I I percent. As evident by the
township data, most of Brunswick County's growth occurred in the beach areas and in the
mainland adjacent to the Intracoastal Waterway. As a case in point, both Sunset Beach and
Ocean Isle are located in the Shallotte Township which experienced a 142 percent population
increase between 1970 and 1990 and a 79.9 percent increase during the 1980's.
Percentage growth rates for municipalities frequently are misleading because of changing town
boundaries and the distorting statistic that a relatively small net change in population may actually
represent a large percent increase for small towns. Such is the case for the Town of Sunset
Beach. The rapid growth rate of 450 percent from 1980 to 1995 is the partly the result of
extensive annexations on the mainland. Table 3.2 reports the annexations of Sunset Beach since
the Town's incorporation in 1963. Based on North Carolina annexation laws, at least 60 percent
of land which is annexed by a town must be developed or "built upon." Between 1963 and 1996,
the Town of Sunset Beach undertook 17 annexations, of which 11 were voluntary per request of
the landowner. These annexations increased the Town's land area by 1,038 acres for a 70.32
percent increase. Fourteen out of the 17 annexations occurred in the 1990's. The 1995
annexation of Shoreline Woods, Seaside Station, and the Oyster Bay golf course substantially
increased the town's population with the addition of 698 housing units and 454 acres. This major
annexation partly explains the net gain of 467 year-round residents since 1990 which results in the
3-1

450 percent population increase since 1980 and the 150 percent population increase since 1990.
TABLE 3.1
YEAR-ROUND POPULATION FOR THE TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH
AND BRUNSWICK COUNTY, 1970-1995
PLACE
1970
1980
1990
Percent
Increase
-1980-
1990
1995
Population
Estimates
Percent
Increase
1990-1995
Sunset Beach
108
140
311
122.1%
778
150.2%
Brunswick County
24,223
35,777
50,985
42.5%
60,739
19.1%
Townships
Lockwood Folly
4,748
7,361
10,705
45.4%
-
—
Northwest
3,356
4,657
7,454
60.1%
—
—
Shallotte
4,877
6,582
11,818
79.6%
—
—
Smithville
4,356
6,838
9,488
38.8%
—
—
Town Creek
5,215
8,357
9,260
10.8%
—
—
IrWacca;a7w
1,681
1,982
2,260
14.0%
—
—
Sources: United States Census, 1970, 1980, and 1990.
Town of Sunset Beach CAMA Land Use Plan Update, 1987.
North Carolina Office of State Planning Population Estimates, December 1996.
3-2
C�7

II YEAR
TABLE 3.2: TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH ANNEXATIONS,1963 -1996
LOCATION
NUMBER OF LAND AREA/
HOUSING UNITS I ACRES
1977
Stanaland Property*
0
4.0
1982
Oyster Bay Golf
0
5.5
1985
Sea Trail Golf Link*
0
50.0
1990
Pelican Square*
0
6.2
1990
Kings Trail*
0
25.0
1990
Sea Trail I*
0
88.3
1990
Sugar Sands*
66
23.9
1990
Sea Trail II*
134
120.9
1991
Oyster Point 1*
0
34.0
1991
Oyster Point II*
0
32.0
1991
Colony
97
21.3
1991
Seaside Center
0
2.1
1992
U.S. Post Office
0
3.9
1994
Seaside Plaza
6
1.02
1994
Woodstork, Baroney Place,
Osprey Watch*
0
58.5
1995
Seaside Station. Shoreline Woods. Oyster
Bay Golf Course
698
453.8
1995
Planter's Ridge*
0
107.8
TOTAL
11001
1,038.22
1963 TOWN LAND AREA 1,476.5
1996 TOWN LAND AREA 2,514.72
PERCENT CHANGE 1963-1996 70.32%
* Voluntary Annexation (Property Owner/Developer petitioned to be annexed and/or 100 percent of all property owners
agreed to the annexation)
Source: Town of Sunset Beach. The 1990 U.S. Census reported that the land area of Sunset Beach in April 1990 was
2.4 square miles or 1,536 acres.
3-3

However, the Sunset Beach Planning Area has been experiencing substantial growth as indicated
by the building permit data. Notice Table 3.3 and Diagram 3.1. Between 1981 and 1996, the
Town of Sunset Beach issued 1,855 building permits of which 1,134 were for single-family
development, 482 were for mobile or manufactured homes, 90 were for duplexes, 132 were for
multi -family buildings, and 17 were for commercial use. These permits authorized a total of 2,332
dwelling units to be constructed. Most of this development occurred in the recently annexed
areas or by constructing homes on previously recorded lots. These figures include permits issued
for the official Town and the ETA boundaries for the given year.
250
200
150
100
50
0
Diagram 3.1: New Construction Building Permits
Sunset Beach Planning Area, 1981 - 1996
1981 1982 1988 1984 1985 leas 1987 1998 1939 1900 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996
Year
D PERMITS RESIDENTIAL UNITS
3-4 �.../

0 0 0
TABLE 3.3: SUNSET BEACH BUILDING PERMITS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION,1981-1996
Year
Single-
. Family
Manu-
factured
Homes
Duplex
Multi -Family
Total Residential
Commercial
Total
Permits
Permits
Units
Permits
Units
Permits
Units
1981
49
51
1)
0
0
0
100
100
0
101)
1982
99
44
4
8
0
0
147
151
0
147
1983 -
14
66
6
12
4
16
90
108
1
91
1984
104
49
16
32
0
0
169
185
0
169
1985
95
49
6
12
4
24
154
180
1
155
1986
35
25
1
2
26
104
87
166
0
87
1987
66
15
4
8
(1
0
85
89
0
85
1988
60
22
5
10
20
80
107
172
0
107
1989
61
22
6
12
5
20
94
115
1
95
1990
30
35
3
6
6
36
74
107
1
75
1991
80
9
4
8
0
(1
93
97
2
95
1992
90
17
6
12
4
24
117
143
2
119
1993
127
22
9
18
4
24
162
191
(1
162
1994
99
22
3
6
20
80
144
207
3
147
1995
61
15
14
28
19
76
109
180
4
113
1996
64
19
3
6
20
52
106
141
2
108
TOTAL
1,134
482
90
180
132
536
1,838
2,332
17
1,855
Source: Town of Sunset Beach Building Permit Records and 1987 and 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan Updates.

Subdivision information also reveals recent development trends. Table 3.4 shows the recorded
subdivisions in Sunset Beach from 1990 through 1996. During these six years, 19 subdivisions
were recorded for a total of 841 new residential lots or multi -family units.
TABLE 3.4
TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH SUBDIVISION APPROVALS, 1990 - 1996
DATE SUBDIVISION NUMBER OF
LOTS/ UNITS
3/90 1 Tabby Walk, Kings Trail 1 65
7/90
Oyster Bay Commons
14
1/10/91
Kings Trail H
34
2/28/91, 6/6/91
Oyster Point Phase I and II
132
8/1/91
Forest Walk
8
3/12/92
Rice Mills
55
11/12/92
Olde Oakes
42
6/ 10/93
Waterway Oaks
- 31
10/07/93
Woodstork Village
28
10/7/93
Baroney Place
38
5/18/95
Saw NO Buildings 1-6
23
6/22/95
Sunset Beach/ Twin Lakes lot 14 B 42
3
4/11/96, 4/18/96
Planters Ridge Lots 1-18, 38-115, and 19-37
210
1996
The Village
96
5/30/96, 6/20/96
Rice Mill - Phase III
16
7/11/96
John Frink Patio Homes
46
TOTAL
841
Source: Town of Sunset Beach
This rapid rate of growth will likely continue. Only 70 percent of all of Sunset Beach's residential
lots have been developed, there are still numerous vacant tracts of land on the mainland, and
construction in the golf -course communities and the beach area has been widespread. In fact,
1997 population estimates based on the 1997 Land Use Survey confirm this growth. Table 3.5
shows the 1997 year-round population estimates for the Town, the ETA, and the total Planning
Area. The 1997 year-round population estimates were derived by proportioning the existing
housing between year-round and seasonal usage. A year-round resident is defined as a resident
who lives in the Sunset Beach Planning Area at least six months of the year. The 1990 United
3-5
10K

101
States census reported that 12 percent of the island and 20 percent of the mainland housing were
occupied during April 1990. It was assumed that these occupancy figures reflected year-round
versus seasonal housing usage and that this housing pattern still continues for single-family and
manufactured housing. Updated information concerning the island duplex and multi -family units
reveals that only one duplex is utilized as a year-round housing unit and that all 17 multi -family
units on the island are seasonal housing units. On the mainland, nearly 80 percent of all the multi-
family or condominium units are utilized as short-term rentals by Sea Trail Plantation and the
Colony in Oyster Bay. Many of the remaining units are also utilized on a seasonal basis by the
owners; therefore, it is assumed that only 10 percent of all multi -family units on the mainland are
occupied by year-round residents. Of the total 3,089 housing units within Sunset Beach Planning
Area, it is estimated that 121 units on the island, 269 units on the mainland, and 70 units in the
ETA were occupied by year-round residents. Moreover, the average persons per household was
2.21 according to the 1990 United States census. The number of year-round housing units was
multiplied by the occupancy ratio in order to obtain the 1997 year-round population estimates. It
is estimated that the 1997 year-round population in the corporate limits is 862 and 154 in the ETA
for a total year-round population of 1,015 in the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
im

TABLE 3.5
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA YEAR-ROUND POPULATION ESTIMATES, 1997
TOWN
NO. OF UNITS
No. Persons Per
Occupancy
Year-round
ETA
Unit Based on
Rate
Population
TOTAL
X
%
Number
PLANNING
1990 US Census
Estimate
AREA
UNITS
Year-
Year-
round
round
Units
TOWN
993
x
12%
119
2.21
X
100%
263
Island
Single -Family
Multi -family*
17
x
-0-
-0-
---
X
---
-0-
Duplex
144
x
1%
1
2.21
X
100%
3
SUBTOTAL
1,154 1
--- 1
10.45% 1
121 1
---
--
---
267
Afainland Single-.
633
x
20%
127
2.21
X
100%
280
family
Multi -family /
344
x
10%
34
2.21
X
100%
76
Duplex
Manufactured/
.542
x
20%
108
2.21
X
100%
240
Mobile Homes
SUBTOTAL-
1,519
---
20%
269
2.21
--
---
595
MAINLAND
SUBTOTAL-
2,673
---
14.6%
390
2.21
--
---
862
TOWN
ETA
169
x
20%
34
2.21
X
100%
75
Single-family
Multi -family /
69
x
10%
7
2.21
X
100%
15
Duplex
Manufactured/
144
x
20%
29
2.21
X
100%
64
Mobile homes
SUBTOTAL
382
--
20%
70
---
x
100%
154
PLANNING
3,055
--
15.0%
460
2.21
x
100%
1,015
AREA TOTAL
IF
Source: Hayes & Associates. Housing count obtained from February 1997 Land Use Survey and adjusted to account
for year-round and seasonal usage. Totals may be slightly different due to spreadsheet rounding.
3-7
181
Ee

3.1.2 Seasonal Population
The seasonal population in Sunset Beach consists of three groups: 1) property -owning summer
residents; 2) the overnight visitor population who rent beach cottages, duplexes, condominiums,
or motels; and 3) day visitors who come to Sunset Beach to enjoy the beach or play a round of
golf. .
Although it is difficult to differentiate between the property owners who reside there versus the
overnight rental visitors, it is possible to estimate the peak seasonal total population. Usually, the
average number of persons per unit for the seasonal occupation of units is larger than for the year-
round occupancy. It is estimated that the number of seasonal occupants averages two persons per
bedroom. The 1990 United States Census showed that 80 percent of the dwelling units on the
mainland were vacant during April 1990 and that 88 percent of the housing units on the island
were vacant. These vacant single-family and manufactured housing units may be assumed to be
seasonal housing rather than year-round housing. As discussed previously, most duplexes and
multi -family units are assumed to be seasonal housing. On the island of Sunset Beach, 99 percent
of the duplexes and 100 percent of multi -family units are estimated to be seasonal housing.
Ninety percent of the mainland multi -family units are estimated to be seasonal units. Nearly 80
percent of the mainland multi -family units are used as short-term rentals by the Oyster Bay and
Sea Trail Plantation resorts. These resort complexes have a different rental season than the island
rentals. The mainland resorts have a 100 percent occupancy in April and May which is the peak
golfing season, but only have a 50 percent to 80 percent occupancy during the summer months.
Table 3.6 details the characteristics of seasonal housing and peak seasonal population.
3-8

TABLE 3.6
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA SEASONAL RESIDENTIAL POPULATION ESTIMATES,1997
LOCATION
NO. OF UNITS
No. Persons
Occupancy
'Seasonal
Per Unit
Rate
Residential
TOTAL
UNITS
X
%
Seasonal
Number
Seasonal
(2 Persons per
Bedroom)
Population
Units
TOWN
993
x
88%
874
8.0
X
100%
6,991
Island
Single -Family
Multi -family
17
x
100%
17
4.0
X
100%
68
Duplex
144
x
99%
143
8.0
X
100%
1,140
Motel Rooms
38
x
100%
38
4.0
X
100%
152
SUBTOTAL
1,192
---
89.9%
1,071
--- I
-- I
---
8,351
Mainland
633
x
80%
506
4.0
X
90%
1,823
Single-family
Multi -family/
344
x
90%
310
4.0
X
80%
991
Condo / Duplex
Manufactured/
542
x
80%
434
4.0
X
80%
1,388
Mobile Homes
SUBTOTAL-
1,519
--
82.3%
1,250
---
--
---
4,201
MAINLAND
SUBTOTAL-
2,711
--
85.6%
2,321
---
--
---
12,552
TOWN
ETA
169
x
80%
135
4.0
X
90%
487
Single-family
Multi -family
69
x
90%
62
4.0
X
80%
224
Manufactured/
144
x
80%
115
4.0
X
80%
369
Mobile homes
SUBTOTAL
382
--
81.8%
313
--
x
•--
1,079
ING
3,093
--
85.1%
2,634
--
-
---
13,631
=0TAL
Source: Hayes & Associates. Housing count obtained from February 1997 Land Use Survey. Totals may be slightly
different due to spreadsheet rounding.
3-9
ME

TABLE 3.7
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA
SEASONAL PEAK RESIDENTIAL POPULATION ESTIMATES, 1997
AREA
HOUSING/
YEAR
SEASONAL
TOTAL PEAK
MOTEL
ROUND
POPULATION
RESIDENTIAL
UNITS
POPULATION
POPULATION
TOWN
2,711
862
12,552
13,414
ETA
382
154
1,079
1,233
PLANNING
3,093
1,016
13,631
14,647
AREA TOTAL
Source: Hayes & Associates, 1997. Housing count obtained from 1997 Land Use Survey.
Occupancy rates and persons per household for year-round housing were obtained from the 1990
U.S. Census. The number of persons per dwelling unit for seasonal housing estimated to be 2
persons per average number of bedrooms.
There appears to be substantial number of "summer -owner" and "weekender" units in Sunset
Beach both on the island and the mainland. It is possible that when these vacation homes are not
being used by the owner that the units may be rented out and thereby may be continuously
occupied. There are two motels on the island which have a combined total of 38 units. In
summary, when 100 percent of the island cottage rentals, summer, and weekend units are
occupied, Sunset Beach's Planning Area's peak population could be 14,647 which is a significant
contrast to the area's relatively small estimated 1997 year-round population of 862 for the town
limits and of 1,016 for the entire planning area as shown on Table 3.7.
The next consideration in the Town's population is the number of "day visitors" who come to
Sunset Beach to enjoy its resort attractions of the beach or to play a round of golf. The typical
peak day for beach day visitors is a Saturday during the summer whereas the golfers play on the
six championship golf courses year-round. The "day visiting" population has a more short-term
impact upon the Town's public facilities and services than the other components of the population.
The most pronounced impact of this group is upon traffic and parking while the impact upon the
water system and septic tanks and package plants are noticed through restaurant, retail, and golf
clubhouse usage.
It is rather difficult to estimate the total number of beach "day visitors" to this resort community.
Traffic count information was inadequate to use as a measure. Island visitor parking is one
indication of beach day visitors. According to a Sunset Beach Police Department survey, there
are now 283 legal parking spaces on the island available to "day visitors." It is also assumed that
25 percent of all the island housing could have day visitors on a peak summer weekend. The
following formula indicates the assumptions utilized for estimating day visitors:
[3 shifts of parking spaces x 283 spaces x 2.8 persons/vehicle- 2,377] +
[150 paid parking spaces at fishing pier- 4201+
[25 percent of island housing units x 2.8 persons/ vehicle -808]
= 3,605 Beach Day Visitors
3-10

In other words, on a peak summer day such as a sunny July 4th weekend, it is estimated that
approximately 3,605 beach day visitors come to enjoy the ocean at Sunset Beach.
The six championship golf courses also attract day visitors. According to a local golf course
manager, golf courses in southeast Brunswick County average 42,000 rounds of golf per course
per year. During the peak golfing season of March and April, these courses average 275 rounds
of golf on a full day, but average 200 rounds of golf per day during the slower summer months. It
is estimated that the six golf courses within the Sunset Beach Planning Area attract 1,200 golfers
per day during the peak summer season.
3.1.3 Population Summary
Table 3.8 presents a summary of the various components of the "peak" seasonal
population of Sunset Beach in 1997.
TABLE 3.8
SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA POPULATION ESTIMATES, 1997
POPULATION
COMPONENT
CORPORATE
LIMITS
EXTRA-
TERRITORIAL
AREA
PLANNING
AREA TOTAL
YEAR-ROUND RESIDENTS
862
154
1,016
SEASONAL OVERNIGHT
VISITORS
12,552
1,079
13,631
RESIDENTIAL SUBTOTAL
13,414
1,233
14,647
BEACH DAY VISITORS
3,605
-0-
3,605
DAILY GOLFER AVERAGE
800
400
1,200
TOTAL PEAK
POPULATION
17,819
1,633
19,452
Source: Hayes & Associates. Based on housing -count of 1997 Land Use Survey and estimates of
day visitors.
It is important to note that the 1987 Plan Update estimated the seasonal peak population to be
8,676 for the entire Planning Area and the 1992 estimated the peak population to be 16,377. The
1997 estimate of 19,452 represents an increase of 124 percent since 1987. This increase is
explained by the issuance of 1,106 additional building permits and the annexation of 979 acres
since 1987.
Social characteristics reported in the 1990 United States Census reveals that Sunset Beach
residents generally are older, wealthier, and have recently moved to the area. The composition of
the Sunset Beach population in terms of age consists mostly of middle -age adults and retirees
which is significant in terms of planning purposes. The 1990 Census reported that 42 percent of
the Town's population was 55 and over while only 13.8 percent was less than 18. Not
3-11
Me

surprisingly because of this age characteristic, 12 percent of Sunset Beach residents over 18
reported a mobility or self -care limitation. The per capita income for Sunset Beach residents was
$31,658 in 1990 as compared to a per capita income of $11,688 for Brunswick County residents
and $12,885 for North Carolina residents. Only 6.9 percent of all persons were estimated to be
below the poverty level in Sunset Beach as compared to 15.4 percent for Brunswick County and
13.5 percent for North Carolina. Moreover, Sunset Beach is a town of "newcomers." Only 38
percent of the Town's population had lived in the same residence as of 1985 and the remaining 62
percent were predominantly "newcomers" to the area. Of these, 28 percent had lived outside of
North Carolina in 1985.
3.2 ECONOMY
While the resort characteristics of Sunset Beach's economy have changed little since the 1992
Land Use Plan Update, the growth of the Town's economic base has been substantial. The
economy is still dependent upon real estate development, tourism, golfing, and travel. Sunset
Beach lies just west of two other Brunswick County beach communities, Ocean Isle Beach and
Holden Beach, and lies southeast of Calabash which is famous for its seafood restaurants. The
Town offers sandy beaches with a gentle surf, pier and surf fishing, and six championship golf
courses on the mainland. These attractions offer relaxing vacations to thousands of visitors each
year.
Sunset Beach's economic base consists mainly of services such as the two motels, beach house
rentals, restaurants, gift and speciality shops, and privately -owned recreational facilities which
include the six championship golf courses, the miniature golf course, and the fishing pier. All of
these services are generally geared toward the traveling and vacationing public and, as such, are
dependent upon the seasonal flow of visitors for their financial sustenance. However, the former
seasonal economy is gradually extending throughout the year as the local year-round population
0 rises and as the number of seasonal residents and visitors increases during the Spring and Fall.
For example, the regional year-round population is now large enough to support a major grocery
store in a local shopping center. Obviously, some stores, shops, and restaurants close for part of
the year or are only open during the weekends during the off-season, but most mainland
businesses now remain open year-round in contrast to the island whereby only the real estate
offices remain open year-round.
Not surprisingly, there are no agricultural, farming, forestry, manufacturing, or industrial uses in
Sunset Beach's jurisdiction. Real estate development and resort rentals are still the most
significant factor in the resort community's economy. The significance of the real estate growth is
illustrated by the fact that the 1980 Plan reported the total residential units in the town limits to be
only 455 which expanded to 863 in 1985 to 1,482 in 1992, and to 2,699 units in 1997 -- a
dramatic increase of 493 percent over a 17-year period. Moreover, the impact of the six
championship golf courses is also substantial as shown by the estimate that as many as 252,000
rounds of golf are played on these courses a year.
The continuing real estate development and sales in the Town will most likely foster a continual
growth in the number of permanent residents. As permanent residents increase, the demand for
local services also increases. As local commercial services and activities increase, the Town will
witness an expansion of its economic base.
Another indication of the significant and continuing growth trend of the Town's economy is the
growth in property valuations and accommodation tax revenues in recent years. Notice Tables
3.9 and 3.10. As of June 1996, the Town of Sunset Beach assessed property valuation was
$391,957,672 and the accommodation tax yielded $400,472 in additional revenues.
3-12

TABLE 3.9
SUNSET BEACH ASSESSED VALUATIONS, 1981- 1996
YEAR
ASSESSED VALUATIONS
PERCENT CHANGE
1981
$32,984,286
---
1982
$33,750,000
2.32%
1983
$36,911,668
9.37%
1984
$40,500,000
9.72%
1985
$45,000,000
11.10%
1986*
$138,840,179
208.85%
1987
$139,345,528
0.36%
1988
$150,276,621
7.84%
1989
$153,327,320
2.03%
1990
$162,015,531
5.67%
1991
$179,383,395
10.72%
1992
$203,049,960
13.19%
1993
$215,088,143
5.93%
1994*
$329,400,660
53.15%
1995
$376,904,811
14.42%
1996
$391,957,672
3.99%
Source: 1987 and 1992 Town of Sunset Beach CAMA Land Use Plan Updates,
Town of Sunset Beach. * Year of Re -valuation
3-13
101

TABLE 3.10
TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH ACCOMMODATION TAX, JULY 1990 - JUNE 1996
YEAR
TAX COLLECTION
PERCENT CHANGE
DULY 1990 - JUNE 1991
$160,201
---
JULY 1991 - JUNE 1992
$222,404
38.8%
DULY 1992 - JUNE 1993
$291,431
31.1%
JULY 1993 - JUNE 1994
$332,274
14.0%
JULY 1994 - JUNE 1995
$363,083
9.3%
JULY 1995 - JUNE 1996
$400,472
10.3%
Source: Town of Sunset Beach
3.3 EXISTING WATER AND LAND USES
3.Z.1 Existing Water Use
The Sunset Beach Planning Area is part of the Coastal Area Watershed of the Lumber River
Basin.' There are three 14-digit hydrological, units within the Sunset Beach Planning Area as
designated on Map 2. Table 3.11 notes the water quality characteristics for each of these 14-digit
units.
The North Carolina Division of Water Quality (DWQ) compiles schedules of tidal saltwater
classifications for the waters of the Lumber River Basin which includes the water systems of
Sunset Beach. The classification system has two main purposes: (1) to protect and promote the
special recreational and commercial uses of tidal saltwater, such as swimming, boating, and
fishing; and (2) to protect and promote the water quality needed for maintaining finfish, shellfish,
and wildlife habitats. A saltwater body's classification may directly or indirectly affect
construction activities, scope of development, or the level of wastewater treatment. Depending
on the classification of an adjacent saltwater body, residential lot sizes may. be restricted; buffer
zones, stormwater management, and higher wastewater treatment may be required; and some
types of activities may be limited or prohibited in some areas. The SA classification of the
Intracoastal Waterway and adjoining waterways indicates a tidal water system which has best
usage for shellfishing and swimming. The SA classification coincides with waters being classified
as Primary Nursery Areas by the NC Marine Fisheries Commission. In North Carolina, all waters
of the Atlantic Ocean are classified as SB. This SB classification indicates that the ocean is
suitable for swimming and other primary recreation uses, but is not deemed suitable as a shellfish
breeding area.
'NCDEHNR Division of Environmental Management, Lumber River Basinwide Water
Quality Management Plan, May 1994, p. 2-5.
3-14

TABLE 3.11
CHARACTERISTICS OF 14-DIGIT HYDROLOGICAL UNITS
FOR THE SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA 0
Characteristic
ICWW,
Kilbart Slough,
Calabash Creek
Atlantic Ocean
ICWW
(03040207020110)
03040207020120)
(03040207020100)
General Geographic
Island of Sunset
East of NC 179,
Calabash to NC 179
Area
Beach, Bird Island
Seaside Station
near Seaside Station,
Oyster Bay -Sea Trail
Plantation
Water System
Atlantic Ocean -SB
ICWW-SA
ICWW -SA
Classifications
ICWW-SA
Lake Medcalf-SA
Calabash River and
Creek- SA
Twin Lakes -SA
Primary Nursery
Salt Marshes
Marshes along
Twin Lakes
Areas
ICWW
Calabash River
ICWW Marshes
Closed Shellfishing
All SA waters closed
All SA waters closed
All SA waters closed
Areas
except near mouth of
Jinks Creek
Water Use Support
ICWW- Partially
ICWW- Partially
ICWW and Calabash
Determinations
Supporting; Tubbs
Supporting
River - Partially
Inlet- Supporting
Supporting
Sources:
CAMA GIS Maps.
Water System Classifications: North Carolina Division of Environmental Management,
January 1997.
Primary Nursery Areas: Division of Marine Fisheries.
Closed Shellfishing Areas: North Carolina Shellfish Sanitation Branch, January 1997.
Water Use Support Determinations: Lumber River Basinwide Water Quality Management
Pin, p. 4-43 and 4-46
All of the estuarine waters of Sunset Beach are conducive for shellfish breeding as indicated by
their SA and primary nursery area designations. However, the North Carolina Division of Marine
Fisheries has banned shellfish harvesting in most of these estuarine waters because of the
deterioration of water quality. Only the waters near the mouth of Jinks Creek and Tubbs Inlet are
open for shellfishing as of January 1997.
The Lumber River Basin Water Quality Management Plan cited use support determinations for all
the estuarine saltwater systems. The use support status of a waterbody describes how well that
waterbody supports its designated uses. Surface waters (streams, lakes, or estuaries) are rated as
either fully supporting, support threatened, partially supporting, or nonsupporting. Saltwaters
classified for commercial shellfish harvesting (SA) would be rated as fully supporting if bacterial
3-15
101

prevent swimming, (<200 MPN), then the waters would be rated as partially supporting since the
waters would only support swimming. If the waters were impacted to the point that even
swimming was disallowed, the waters would be rated as nonsupporting. The ICWW and
Calabash Creek within the Sunset Beach Planning Area are designated as partially supporting
because of their closure as shellfishing areas due to elevated areas of bacteria as reported by the
DEH Shellfish Sanitation Surveys. Ambient station readings in the ICWW also indicated elevated
levels of bacteria and violations of additional criteria such as turbidity, copper, low dissolved
oxygen, pH, and temperature. Waters within this coastal watershed were impacted primarily by
multiple nonpoint sources including agriculture, urban runoff, septic tanks, and marinas.
3.3.2 Existing Lan
The overall land use pattern in Sunset Beach has changed little since the 1992 Land Use Plan
Update, with the possible exceptions of the relocation of the new Town Hall and Police
Department and the addition of two championship golf courses at Angel Trace. Most commercial
and institutional uses are now located along NC 904 and NC 179 in the vicinity of the Pelican
Square shopping center, the Post Office, and the new Town Hall and Police Department.
Within the Town's corporate limits are approximately 2,515 acres of land, water, wetlands, and
marshes. Approximately 1,400 acres consist of undevelopable marsh, beaches, and waterways.
Nearly all of the developed and/or platted acreage is for residential use. Notice Map 2, the 1997
Land Use Map, which shows the existing land use patterns and is attached in the back of this
report. In addition to residential uses, there are some commercial areas, governmental uses, and
recreation uses such as the golf courses and fishing pier within Sunset Beach and its
extraterritorial jurisdiction.
Table 3.12 shows the residential units for the Sunset Beach Planning Area as of February 1997.
On the island, there are 993 single-family homes, 144 duplexes scattered along the oceanfront, 17
multi -family units, and two motels which have a combined total of 38 rooms. Diagram 3.2 reveals
the historical growth patterns of island development according to housing counts submitted by the
Sunset Beach Taxpayer's Association. According to this diagram, most of the development on
the island occurred during the 1980's. The conversion of the oceanfront from single-family homes
to duplexes began in the late 1980's. The relocation of smaller beachfront houses to other island
residential lots is a relatively recent trend and is attributed to "economic obsolescence", rather
than beach erosion. Table 3.13 shows that 17 island houses have been moved since 1992. These
older beachfront homes have generally been replaced by eight -bedroom duplexes.
3-16

TABLE 3:12
1997 RESIDENTIAL LAND USES BY UNITS
HOUSING
ISLAND
MAINLAND
TOWN
ETA
PLANNING
TYPE
TOTAL
AREA
TOTAL
Single-family
993
633
1,626
169
1,795
Duplex
144
4
148
4
152
Multi -family /
17
340
357
65
422
condominium
Units*
Motel Units
38
0
38
0
38
Manufactured
0
542
542
144
686
Housing/ Mobile
Homes
TOTAL
j 1,192
j 1,519
j 2,711
j 382
j 3,093
* Nearly 80 percent of the multi -family units / condominium units used for short-term rentals.
Source: 1997 Land Use Survey.
1200
1000
800
600
400
200
0
DIAGRAM 3.2
Housing Development on the Island of Sunset Beach, 1959 to 1996
1965 1976 1982 i 1984 1986 1988 1199f 1992 1994 I 19.
1959 1969 1979 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995
Year
Houses — — Duplexes
Source: Ms. Minnie Hunt
3-17
)6

TABLE 3.13
RELOCATION OF HOUSES ON THE ISLAND
OF SUNSET BEACH,1992 -1996
YEAR
NUMBER OF HOUSES
1992
1
1993
4
1994
5
1995
2
1996
5
TOTAL
17
Source: Town of Sunset Beach.
Residential uses within the town limits on the mainland are a mix of 633 single-family homes, 4
duplexes, 340 condominium units of which many are utilized as motel units, and 542
manufactured housing or mobile homes. Most of the condominium units are concentrated within
the golf course complexes and the mobile homes are located in the recently annexed areas. The
extraterritorial area is largely a mix of 169 single-family homes, 4 duplexes, 65 condominium
units, and 144 manufactured houses or mobile homes.
Commercial land uses are concentrated in three areas of the Town. On the island, commercial
uses are located along Sunset Boulevard to Main Street and include two motels, 5 real estate
offices, and several stores and shops. A cluster of commercial uses is located on the mainland near
the bridge and include three restaurants, a small grocery store, a convenience -type store, the
Sunrise Square center, a retail store, an ABC store, a miniature golf course, and several real estate
offices. The Pelican Square shopping center is located on NC 904 near the intersection of NC
179. This shopping center contains a major grocery store, a drug store, and several restaurants
and retail shops. The Seaside Plaza shopping center has a convenience mart, a bank, and several
service establishments. A new medical office is located on NC 179. The only ETA commercial
uses are two seafood stores -located near the Calabash Creek along NC 179. According to the
Town's official zoning map, there are substantial areas zoned for commercial activities within the
Town's planning area.
Both the Town Hall, Police and Fire Department buildings are located on the mainland as well as
the Town Garage and Water Tower. The U.S. Post Office is located along Route 904. Two
churches in the ETA are also classified as institutional use for land use mapping purposes. These
are the only structures utilized for governmental/ institutional purposes.
The principal recreation areas, other than the beach -front, are the six 18-hole championship golf
courses, the miniature golf course, the Village Activities Center located in Sea Trail Plantation,
and the fishing pier. Beach and waterfront access is an important consideration in Sunset Beach.
There are 33 dedicated beach accesses located at the end of most streets on the island. These
beach accesses have crosswalks over the dunes and have been marked with CAMA beach access
signs. There are also 10 unmarked, dedicated easements on the island providing public access to
3-18

the estuarine waters. The Town of Sunset Beach provides 283 public parking spaces on the
island which are used by beach day visitors. This total includes the 45 new spaces located near
the fishing pier. There are two to sic portable toilets temporarily located at the Sunset Boulevard
island parking lot. Sea Trail Plantation has a private boat launching ramp on the mainland.
As the attached 1997 Existing Land Use Map indicates, nearly all the developable land on the
island has been subdivided into building lots, mostly for single-family structures. There is still a
significant amount of undeveloped subdivision lots remaining on the mainland and in the ETA as
well as numerous tracts of vacant land. Notice Table 3.14:
TABLE 3.14
LAND DEVELOPMENT SUMMARY, 1997
AREA
TOTAL
PLATTED
LOTS
VACANT
DEVELOPED
PERCENT
DEVELOPED
Island
1,560
478
1,082
69.4%
Mainland
2,400
850
1,550
64.6%
Extraterritorial Area
612
230
382
62.4%
Planning Area Total
4,572
1,558
3,014
65.9%
Source: 1997 Land use Survey
The revised CAMA planning regulations state that land uses shall be summarized for each
watershed. The watershed boundaries are located on Map 2. Table 3.15 summarizes the land
uses for the three watersheds located in the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
3-19

EO
TABLE 3.15 .
LAND USES BY HYDROLOGICAL UNITS, FEBRUARY 1997
TYPE OF
ICWW,.
Kilbart Slough,
Calabash Creek
LAND USE
Atlantic Ocean
ICWW
(03040207020110)
(03040207020120)
(03040207020100)
GENERAL
Island of Sunset
Mainland -
Mainland -
WATERSHED
Beach
Seaside,
Sea Trail, Oyster Bay,
LOCATION
Shoreline Woods
Angel Trace, Heritage
Haven, Bonaparte
Retreat, ETA
Single-family
993 houses
243 houses
559 houses
Duplex
72 duplexes,
2 duplexes,
2 duplexes,
144 units
4 units
4 units
Multi -family/
3 buildings,
-0-
66 buildings,
condominiums
17 units
405 units
Motel
2 motels, 38 rooms
-0-
Included in condo
count
Manufactured/
-0-
533
153
Mobile Homes
Commercial
2 Motels, 5 Real Estate
Several Restaurants,
Pelican Square
offices, several stores.
offices, stores along
Shopping Center,
NC 179 Corridor
Seaside Plaza, ABC
Store
Golf Course
-0-
-0-
6 courses
Government /
2 Utility stations
Town Hall, Police
US Post Office,
Institutional
Department
2 Churches
Fire Station
Vacant
478
216
864
Subdivided Lots
Source: 1997 Land Use Survey.
3 - 20

3.3.3 Significant Land Use Compatibility Problems and Problems from Unplanned
Development 0
Most of Sunset Beach has been developed since the enactment of zoning and subdivision
regulations which has minimized land use compatibility problems. During the summer, there is a
high demand for public beach parking spaces and there is significant traffic congestion at the
bridge, especially when the bridge is closed for boat traffic and repairs. To avoid future land use
problems, the Town will continue to enforce its zoning and subdivision ordinances and regularly
review each ordinance in terms of its appropriateness and effectiveness in achieving the Town's
objectives for growth and development.
3.3.4 Significant Water Use Compatibility Problems
As discussed in Section 3.3.1, most waters in the Sunset Beach Planning Area including the
Intracoastal Waterway and the Calabash Creek are listed as only partially supporting of their
designated function because of these waters closure to shellfishing. Only the waters near the
mouth of Jinks Creek and Tubbs Inlet are open for shellfishing as of January 1997. The ICWW
and Calabash Creek within the Sunset Beach Planning Area are designated as partially supporting
because of their closure as shellfishing areas due to elevated areas of bacteria as reported by the
DEH Shellfish Sanitation Surveys. Ambient station readings in the ICWW also indicated elevated
levels of bacteria and violations of additional criteria such as turbidity, copper, low dissolved
oxygen, pH, and temperature. Waters within this coastal watershed were impacted primarily by
multiple nonpoint sources including agriculture, urban runoff, septic tanks, and marinas.
3.3.5 Areas Likely to Experience Changes in Predominant Land Use
Tracts of vacant land are the areas most likely to experience land use changes. It is probable that
the vacant tract of commercial land across from Pelican Square Shopping Center will be
developed within the next 5 to 10 years. The prospect of Bird Island being developed is 'a major
concern to many. Many Sunset Beach residents would prefer for the island to remain
undeveloped and become a wildlife sanctuary or nature park. A dilemma for the Town is that
major portions of Bird Island consist of developable land and therefore, it would not be possible
to prohibit development of the island through zoning restrictions since such action would
constitute "taking of private property without just compensation." Bird Island is currently zoned
as a Conservation Reserve District which permits single-family homes on upland areas. Public
acquisition would be the best means to prevent any development which is the goal of the Bird
Island Preservation Society. In terms of redevelopment, the Seaside Station area will likely
experience a transition from mobile homes to single-family housing as the older mobile homes
need to be replaced because of age.
3.4 CURRENT PLANS, POLICIES, AND REGULATIONS
Unless otherwise noted, the Town Administrator and two building inspectors are responsible for
the enforcement of the following ordinances. All ordinances are constantly reviewed regarding
effectiveness in promoting growth management and are amended as needed.
3.4.1 Prior CAMA Land Use Plans
The Town of Sunset Beach had its first CAMA Land Use Plan prepared in 1976, with additional
5-year updates being completed in 1980, 1986, and 1992. All of these previous plans contained a
description of the Town and general development policies.
3-21
E*

3.4.2 Transportation Plans
The most significant feature of North Carolina's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
pertaining to Sunset Beach is the proposed replacement bridge across the Intracoastal Waterway
(B-682). The construction of the replacement bridge has been delayed until a court -ordered
Environmental Impact Statement is completed in 1997. No funds for the construction of the
bridge are included in the 1997-2003 TIP. -The widening of NC 904 from NC 179 to US 17 to
three lanes (R-3108) and the widening of NC 179 from SR 1163 (Georgetown Road) to US 17
are other road improvements included in the NC 1997-2003 TIP (R-3106). The completion of
the Georgetown Road extension from SR 1184 to NC 179 will provide an important alternate
route between Shallotte and the Sunset Beach Planning Area. (R-3432) These TIP improvements
are shown on Figure 3-1 A and, B. The 1988 Brunswick County Thoroughfare Plan included
transportation improvements for Sunset Beach.
3.4.3 Water Supply and Distribution Plans
Sunset Beach, like many other smaller communities in Brunswick County, is a part of the
Brunswick County Water System. All the municipalities served by this regional system adopted
the 1992 Brunswick County Joint Water Supply Plan in September 1994 as serving as their local
water supply plan. According to this 1992 plan, the water supply available to Sunset Beach is
unlimited.
3.4.4 Waste Treatment Plans
Most of the Sunset Beach Planning Area relies on ground absorption systems for all sewage
disposal as permitted by the Brunswick County Health Department. The two exceptions are the
small community on -site system serving the Colony condominiums at the Oyster Bay development
and the new package plant being built in 1997 to serve Sea Trail Plantation. The Town of Sunset
Beach in 1991 commissioned the consulting firms of Powell Associates and Piedmont Olsen
Hensley to perform a Comprehensive Wastewater Study of the town and surrounding area. As a
result of the study, a recommended plan for working jointly with the Town of Calabash and
Brunswick County in providing sewer service to the region was developed in 1992, and
subsequently adopted by the Town Council. The South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority
(SBWSA) was incorporated on January 27, 1993 and duly organized on April 18, 1994. The
Board of Directors consists of nine members appointed by and representing the Towns of Sunset
Beach, Calabash, and Brunswick County. The goal of this regional authority is, "To restore and
preserve the estuarine quality and natural ecological functions of the estuarine waters of the South
Brunswick Area." The Authority plans to implement this goal by operating an environmentally
sound, cost-effective comprehensive wastewater and stormwater management program. The
Authority prepared the South Brunswick 201 Facilities Plan in 1993. The proposed wastewater
project was evaluated for compliance with the North Carolina Environmental Policy Act (SEPA)
and was determined to be a major agency action requiring an Environmental Assessment. A
Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) was prepared by the North Carolina Department of
Environment, Health, and Natural Resources (NCDEHNR) in December 1994. A challenge to
the FONSI was filed by Minnie and William Hunt, the Sunset Beach Taxpayers Association
(SBTA), and the N.C. Coastal Federation on July 20, 1995. On November 3, 1995,
Administrative Law Judge Thomas R. West rendered a Recommended Decision to the N.C.
Environmental Management Commission that an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) be
prepared in conjunction with the proposed sewer system. As a result of the Recommended
Decision by Judge West, the SBWSA voluntarily decided to proceed with the completion of an
EIS along with the implementation of a Storm Water Quality Management Program (SWQMP.)
The Final EIS will be completed in 1998.
3 - 22

FIGURE 3-1

FIGURE 3-1
Eo
0

3.4.8.5 Stormwater Management Plan and Ordinance
In 1994 the NC Division of Coastal Management awarded Sunset Beach a grant to develop a
Storm Water Ordinance. The Town of Sunset Beach adopted its Storm Water Management
Ordinance on August 7, 1995. The ordinance requires new construction to manage the storm
water run off generated by its development. This ordinance was just the first step for the Town
and the South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority (SBWSA) to address storm water
problems. The SBWSA is developing a regional Storm Water Quality Management Program
(SWQMP) for the South Brunswick area which includes the entire Sunset Beach Planning Area.
The primary purpose of the SWQMP is to remediate existing point and non -point pollution from
storm water runoff. Testing and monitoring of storm water runoff is now being conducted.
These tests measure the pollutant loading at major and minor storm water outfall locations that
flow to the Calabash River, the Caw Caw Swamp, the headwaters of the Shallotte River, and the
Intracoastal Waterway via tidal estuaries from adjacent mainland areas and the Island of Sunset
Beach. Once the testing has been analyzed for each defined drainage basins, then storm water
treatment devices will be designed and constructed to remove the pollutants prior to the storm
water reaching the shellfish waters.
The SBWSA has established storm water service and on -site septic system charges as a means to
finance these storm water programs. The billing process became effective on April 1, 1996 and
charges began accruing from that date. Storm water service charges are based on land use.
Single-family improved lots are charged a flat rate of $3.00 per month and commercial properties
are charged according to their square footage. Vacant land is assessed $.25 per acre/month and
multi -family units are charged a flat rate of $2.00/month. Septic system charges are based upon
water consumption and single-family residences using potable wells and on -site systems are
charged $1.50 per month.
3.4.6 Utilities Extension Policy
The Town requires the developer to pay all costs of extension and installation waterlines to newly
developed areas. After construction, all the lines become the Town's property. ,
3.4.7 Open Space and Recreation Policies
The beaches provide most of the area's recreational opportunities and public beach access is
available at 33 locations. A new beach parking area with 45 parking spaces and a gazebo has been
built close to the fishing pier on the island. On the island, the Town does own three 10-feet wide
drainage easements which lead from North Shore Drive to the marshes which are unimproved but
could provide access to the estuary. There are an additional 7 dedicated 5-foot paths to the
estuary on the eastern end of the island. Currently, the Town does not have a formal recreation
policy or operate parks, public boat accesses, or similar public recreational facilities.
3.4.8 Emergency Response Plan
After Hurricane Bertha in 1996, the Town of Sunset Beach extensively revised its 1986
emergency response plan. The revised plan now has extensive checklists which delegate
responsibilities among the emergency response team. The plan also addresses how various
emergency situations such as hurricanes, fire, chemical spills, bridge failure, earthquakes, or oil
spills should be handled
3 - 24

3.4.9 Local Regulations and Enforcement Provisions
Unless otherwise noted, the Town Building Inspector and the Assistant Building Inspector are
responsible for the enforcement of the following ordinances. All ordinances are constantly
reviewed regarding effectiveness in promoting growth management and are amended as needed
3.4.9.1 CAMA Permits
Because of Sunset Beach's location and geographic features, most of the new development is
regulated by the CAMA permit process. The Town has a building inspector who also serves as
the CAMA Local Permit Officer. The Areas of Environmental Concern described in the
forthcoming section are areas which are protected by the enforcement of the CAMA permit
process.
3.4.9.2 Zoning Ordinance and Zoning Map
The Sunset Beach Zoning Ordinance is the major tool for regulating the use of land within the
Town's corporate limits and one -mile extraterritorial area. The zoning districts are briefly
described as follows:
MR-1 Mainland Residential District: Primarily for residential use with provisions for single-family
residences, championship golf courses, as well as primary and secondary uses. The minimum
required lot area per dwelling unit is 15,000 square feet.
MR-2 Mainland Residential District: Primarily for residential use with provisions for single-family
residences, planned residential development, and championship golf courses as well as customary
and secondary uses, and other uses permitted in MR-1. The minimum required lot area per
dwelling unit is 10,000 square feet.
MR-3 Mainland Multi -family Residential Development: Exclusively for residential use with
provisions for single-family and multi -family development, and customary and secondary uses as
well as other uses permitted in MR-1 such as championship golf courses.
MB-1 Mainland Business District: Primarily for retail trade with provisions for retail and
convenience -type establishments and residential development.
BR-1 Beach Residential District: Exclusively for residential use with provisions for single-family
and two-family residences as well as customary and secondary uses.
BR-2 Beach Residential District: Exclusively for residential use with provisions for single-family
residences, planned residential development, as well as customary and secondary uses.
BB-1 Beach Business District: Primarily for general business use with provisions for residential
uses and convenience -type trade establishments.
MH-1 Mobile and Manufacture Home/Conventional Home Residential District: Exclusively for
residential use with provisions for single-family mobile homes and conventional housing as well
as customary and secondary uses. The minimum required lot area per dwelling unit is 9,000
square feet.
MH-2 Mobile and Manufactured Home Residential District: Exclusively for residential use with
provisions for double -wide mobile homes. The minimum required lot size per dwelling unit is
6,500 square feet.
3 - 25

MR2A- Manufactured Mobile Home Residential District: Similar zoning district to the MH-2 but
with a 25-foot setback in order to accommodate the smaller lots.
AF-1 Agricultural -Forestry District: Primarily for the production of agricultural and forestry
products with provisions for single-family homes provided that lots are one -acre minimum in size
and that all other requirements of MR-1 apply for such residential lots.
R1-1 Recreational -Institutional District: Exclusively for the use of government buildings,
churches, schools, parks, and like uses.
CR-1 Conservation Reserve District-- Established to provide management of major wetlands, open
spaces, undeveloped shorelines, undeveloped barrier and estuarine islands, and significant plant
and wildlife habitats. Single-family low density residential uses may be permitted in the upland
areas.. (Bird Island is zoned CR-1.)
MB-P Mainland Business Professional District: Established to promote a more attractive area that
would be better suited for professional types of services which generally require fewer signs and
lower levels of illumination as compared to retail stores. (No MB-P zoning districts have been
established as of 1997.)
There are slightly different zoning provisions which apply to the mainland and beach portions of
the Town. The Town Building Inspector is also the Zoning Officer. In conjunction with the
Zoning Ordinance, the Town also has a Planning Board which also serves as the Board of
Adjustment.
3.4.9.3 Subdivision Regulations
The Town of Sunset Beach also enforces a set of subdivision regulations, which have been
utilized to guide the general design of newly developing areas within the Town's jurisdiction.. A
subdivision is the division of any parcel or tract of land into two or more lots for the purpose of
development. The ordinance states five major purposes of these regulations:
(1) To provide for economical and sufficient streets with adequate widths and with proper
alignment and grade;
(2) To provide space for safe and sanitary dwelling accommodations within the planning
area of the town;
(3) To provide for suitable residential neighborhoods with adequate streets and utilities
and appropriate building sites;
(4) To save unnecessary expenditure of public funds by studying space and recommending
from time to time the purchase of such space for public lands and buildings and by initial proper
construction of streets and utilities; and
(5) To provide proper land records for the convenience of the public and for better
identification and permanent location of real estate boundaries. The subdivision ordinance
requires for the developer to build the roads according to the Town's specification and then the
streets can be dedicated to the Town.
In addition to a standard plat review procedures prior to the approval of any "regular"
subdivision, the regulations also contain a rather detailed set of procedures for approval of
3 - 26

"Planned Residential Developments"
established in Sunset Beach as of
Regulations:
or PRD. No Planned Residential Development have _ been
1997. Notice the following excerpt from the Subdivision
"Through PRD the town can allow development of land that has a higher degree of
consideration of physical features and natural constraints to development than would be possible
under general zoning or subdivision regulations. PRD is expected to promote a more efficient use
of land, a higher level of amenities, and more creative designs than would otherwise be possible.
In each case the overall density of dwelling units shall be less than that permitted by the applicable
zoning requirements." (Ord. 82.1.12-4, passed 1-12-82)
The PRD is 'a specially permitted use in the MR-1, MR-2, MR-3 and BR-2 Zoning Districts and
has provisions for open spaces, tree cover, recreational areas, scenic vistas, and mixed residential
uses such as cluster homes and townhouses.
3.4.9.4 Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
In 1974 Sunset Beach adopted a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and began participating in
the Emergency Phase of the Federal Flood Insurance Program. In 1985 the Town entered the
regular phase of the program with the publishing of the final Flood Insurance Rate Maps by the
Federal Emergency Management Administration. First floor building elevation requirements vary
in the Town ranging from 13 to 17 feet in the "AE" zone and from 15 to 23 feet in the "VE" zone.
The Town of Sunset Beach requires an additional foot above the baseline elevation. The Flood
Ordinance is enforced as part of the Townes building permit program. The Building Inspector is
also the enforcement officer.
3.4.9.5 Building Code
In 1967, the Town of Sunset Beach adopted the N.C. State Building Code. The Town Building
Inspectors issue building permits and inspect construction to ensure strict compliance with all
code enforcement.
3.4.9.6 Septic Tank Regulations
Sunset Beach is served by ground absorption waste disposal systems that are permitted by the
Brunswick County Health Department. Any system generating more than 3,000 gallons of waste
per day is designed by engineers and submitted to the North Carolina Department of Human
Resources for approval. Building permits are not issued until a septic tank permit or an approved
site plan is presented. A final inspection is not given or a certificate of occupancy completed until
an inspection slip from the Health Department is in the Town file indicating that the waste
disposal system was installed as permitted.
3.4.9.7 Dune Protection
Sunset Beach does have specific provisions for protecting the dunes in the Building Code and
general provisions forbidding vehicular traffic on the beach in the Traffic Code. Moreover,
walkways are provided at each beach access and fences line these walkways which guide
pedestrian traffic from disturbing the dunes. It is also illegal to walk, play, or alter the dunes in
any fashion.
3 - 27

3.4.9.8 Sign Ordinance
A sign ordinance was adopted by the Sunset Beach Town Council in 1992, amended in 1993, and
further revised in March 1997.
3.4.10 Federal and State Regulations
In addition to the local ordinances and county regulations listed and described above, there are
also various state and federal regulations which could also affect land development in Sunset
Beach. An important consideration is the consistency review required to be performed by federal
and state authorities as mandated by the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, the
North Carolina Coastal Zone Management Act (CAMA), and the NC Executive Order 15 issued
by Governor Hunt in 1977. Application for federal and state permits as well as acquisition, use,
and disposition of lands in the coastal areas must be consistent with the North Carolina Coastal
Management Plan, including the CAMA local land use plans such as this one for the Town of
Sunset Beach. Another example of federal review are the 404 wetlands regulations which are
enforced by the Corps of Engineers and affect development on land which meets the federal
criteria of wetlands.

4.0 CONSTRAINTS
4.1 . LAND SUITABILITY.
4.1.1 Physical Limitations for Development
4.1.1.1 Manmade Hazards
3
Sunset Beach is -a resort community and there are no manmade hazards such as airports,
industries, or waste facilities located within its Planning Area.
4.1.1.2 Flood Hazard Areas
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) first identified flood hazard areas for the
Town of Sunset Beach in November 1972. The FEMA flood insurance rate maps were most
recently revised in August 1992. Map 3, which is attached, shows the general location of Sunset
Beach's flood hazard areas and there are five classifications which are pertinent:
VE-Zone: The VE-zone corresponds to the 100-year coastal floodplains which have
additional hazards associated with storm waves. Based on detailed hydraulic analysis, FEMA
projects that floodwaters during a 100-year storm could reach depths ranging from 15 to 23 feet
(i.e., base flood elevations). The VE-zone corresponds to the High Hazard Flood Area AEC and
basically consists of the oceanfront, Bird Island, land bordering Mad and Tubb's Inlet, and lower
elevation lands bordering both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway.
Zone AE: These areas are within the 100-year floodplain and base flood elevations ranging
from 13 to 17 feet were derived by FEMA. Generally, slightly higher elevation lands from the
ocean dunes to the vicinity of the Intracoastal Waterway on the island, slightly higher elevation
lands bordering the Intracoastal Waterway on the mainland; and lands bordering the Calabash
River Creek have been designated as Zone AE.
Zone A: Zone A areas are also located within the 100-year flood plain but FEMA has not
conducted detailed studies to determine base flood elevations. A section of Zone A borders the
upper region of the Calabash River Creek.
Zone X Special Designation: These areas are designated as a light gray on the FEMA
flood insurance rate maps. These Zone X areas correspond to the 500-year floodplain or areas of
100-year flooding where average depths are less than one foot, areas of 100-year flooding where
the contributing drainage area is less than one square mile, and areas protected from the 100-year
flood by levees. No base flood elevations are specified within this zone. Generally, this Zone X
area in Sunset Beach consists of the land surrounding the Western and Eastern Lakes on the
mainland.
Zone X: These Zone X areas are the higher elevation lands on the mainland which are
determined to be outside the 500-year floodplain. These areas are not shaded on the FEMA maps
or regulated by the Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. In Sunset Beach, most mainland upland
areas not bordering water systems are classified as Zone X which comprises a major portion of
the Town's mainland.
4-1

4.1.1.3 Areas with Soil Limitations 0
A soil survey for Brunswick County was completed in 1986 by the U.S. Department of
Agriculture Soil Conservation Service. The report includes detailed descriptions of the soil types
and properties for Brunswick County with discussions of the suitability for various uses such as
dwellings without basements, septic tank absorption, sanitary landfills, and recreation. The
limitations are considered slight if soil properties and site features are generally favorable for the
indicated use and limitations are minor and easily overcome; moderate if soil properties or site
features are not favorable for the indicated use and special planning, design, or maintenance is
needed to overcome or minimize the limitations; and severe if the soil properties or site features
are so unfavorable or so difficult to overcome that special design, significant increases in
construction costs, and possibly increased maintenance are required.'
Soils in Sunset Beach are typical of those found on developed coastal barrier islands and of lower
coastal plains of the mainland. Table 4.1 lists the general characteristics and location of the
fourteen soil types found in Sunset Beach and discuss their suitability for dwellings without
basements and septic tank absorption. On the island, the Bohicket and Carteret soils are found in
the marshes and tidal flats while the Corolla and Newhan soils are found mainly along the
oceanfront. All four of these soil types have severe limitations for dwellings without basements
and septic tank absorption. Bohicket soils are also found in the mainland marshes of the
Intracoastal Waterway. Ten out of the eleven soil types found on the mainland likewise have
severe limitations for septic tank absorption because of wetness, flooding, ponding, or poor filter
characteristics. Only the Blanton soils which are generally found north of the Calabash River
Creek in the recently extended extraterritorial limits have moderate limitations for septic tank
absorption. On the other hand, eight out of eleven mainland soils have only slight to moderate
limitations for dwellings without basements. The wetness of the Leon soils, the flooding,
ponding, and shrink -swell nature of the Bohicket soils, and the ponding of the Murville soils
impose severe limitations for dwellings without basements. Pockets of the Leon and Murville
soils are scattered on the mainland while the Bohicket soils are generally found along the
Intracoastal Waterway.
The lack of soils generally suitable for septic tank placement is a major concern for Sunset Beach
which currently does not have a centralized sewer system. However, the general declaration of
limitations do not mean that sites within these soil types are absolutely unsuitable. Individual on -
site investigations must be conducted to determine final suitability. The Brunswick County Health
Department issues permits for septic tanks if all applicable county, state, and federal regulations
are met. A final decision is based on soil testing and other site requirements being determined by
local subdivision and zoning requirements.
4.1.1.4 Water Supply Areas
The Town's primary source of water is the Brunswick County Water System which obtains its
water from the Cape Fear River. All town residents are connected to the county water system_
and most of the ETA residents likewise use the county system; therefore, there are few private
wells operating in the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
'North Carolina Division of Coastal Management: Brunswick County: Sunset Beach Land
Use Planning Information Packet, Fall 1996, p. 46. 0
4-2

[�7
TABLE 4.1: SOIL CHARACTERISTICS FOR THE SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA
SOIL
TYPES
Bohicket
Carteret
Corolla
Newhan
GENERAL
CHARACTERISTICS
Very poorly drained soils of
the tidal marshes
Very poorly drained soils in
tidal flats
Fine sand along the coast
Fine sand along the coast
DWELLINGS WITHOUT
BASEMENTS
ISLAND SOILS
Severe: Flooding, Ponding,
Shrink -Swell
Severe: Flooding, Ponding
Severe: Flooding
Severe: Slope
MAINLAND SOILS
SEPTIC TANK
ABSORPTION
Severe: Flooding, Ponding,
Perks Slowly
Severe: Flooding, Ponding,
Perks Slowly
Severe: Wetness, Poor Filter
Severe: Poor Filter, Slope
Baymeade
Gently sloping soils on the
Slight
Severe: Poor Filter
lower coastal plains
Blanton
Moderately well drained sandy
Slight
Moderate: Wetness
soil of the interstream areas
Foreston*
Nearly level, well drained soils
Slight
Severe: Wetness
in the interstream areas
Kureb
Excessively drained soils of
Slight
Severe: Poor Filter
lower coastal plains
Leon
Poorly drained soils in
Severe: Wetness
Severe: Wetness, Poor Filter
interstream depressions
Mandarin
Poorly drained soils in
Moderate: Wetness
Severe: Wetness
interstream depressions
Murville
Poorly drained soils on
Severe: Ponding
Severe: Ponding, Poor Filter
depressions in coastal uplands
Pactolus
Nearly level and gently sloping
Moderate: Wetness
Severe: Wetness, Poor Filter
with moderate to poorly
drained soils
Tomahawk
Somewhat moderate to poorly
Moderate: Wetness
Severe: Wetness
drained soils on uplands
Wando
Excessively drained soils in
Slight
Severe: Poor Filter
interstream areas
* Prime Farmland Soil
Source: U.S.D.A., Soil Survey of Brunswick County. NC: November 1986.
4-3

4.1.1.5 Slopes in Excess of 12 Percent
Sunset Beach lies on a low -elevation coastal barrier island and gently sloping coastal plain.
Generally, there is no land within the planning area which has slopes in excess of 12 percent which
would pose a constraint for development. One exception is the frontal sand dunes which are
ocean hazard areas and are protected from development by CAMA and provisions in local
ordinances.
4.1.1.6 Shoreline Areas with High Erosion Potential
The estuarine natural hazard area is defined as the non -ocean shoreline subject to erosion or
similar effects of wind and water, which is usually the immediate estuarine shoreline. Sunset
Beach has extensive marshes bordering its estuarine shorelines which protect its shorelines from
extensive erosion.
4.1.1.7 Coastal Barrier Resources Act (CBRA)
The Coastal Barrier Resources Act (Public Law 97-348) enacted October 18, 1982 designated
various undeveloped coastal barriers islands , depicted by specific maps, for inclusion into the
Coastal Barrier Resources System. Areas so designated were made ineligible for direct or indirect
federal financial assistance that might support development, including flood insurance, except for
emergency life-saving activities. Exceptions for certain activities, such as fish and wildlife
research, are provided, and the national Wildlife Refuges and other protected areas are excluded
from the System. Bird Island is designated as a CBRA area.
4.1.2 Fragile Areas
These are areas which could easily be damaged or destroyed by inappropriate or poorly planned
development. Fragile areas include Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) as discussed below.
However, there are other fragile areas in Sunset Beach which are not classified as Areas of
Environmental Concern, but nevertheless, due to either natural or cultural significance, are
environmentally sensitive.
Natural resource fragile areas are generally recognized to be of educational, scientific, or cultural
value because of the natural features of the particular site. Features in these areas serve to
distinguish them from the vast majority of the landscape. These areas include: complex natural
areas, areas that sustain remnant species, unique geological formations, pocosins, wooded
swamps, prime wildlife habitats, or registered natural landmarks.
4.1.2.1 Areas of Environmental Concern
One of the most significant aspects of the legislation which created CAMA was the designation of
special "Areas of Environmental Concern" (AECS). These areas which are defined in the NC
State Statues require special protective consideration as far as land use planning is concerned.
AECS are further designated under two major groupings, the Estuarine System and the Ocean
Hazard AECS. Because of its location on a barrier island and the mainland, Sunset Beach has
AECS in both categories which are described below. The statutorily defined Areas of
Environmental Concern (AECS) generally remain the same as described in the 1992 Plan Update.
All development and development -related activity within Sunset Beach's designated AECS are
currently regulated by the Coastal Area Management Act permit process.
4-4
101

Estuarine Areas: The Estuarine System AECS include Coastal Wetlands, Estuarine Waters,
Estuarine Shorelines, Public Trust Areas, and most recently Outstanding Resource Waters. These
�j areas and their general occurrence in Sunset Beach are discussed as follows:
Coastal Wetlands
These areas are defined as any salt marsh or other marsh subject to regular or occasional flooding
by tides, including wind tides (whether or not the tide waters reach the marshland areas through
natural or artificial water courses), but not including hurricane or tropical storm tides. In Sunset
Beach, coastal wetlands generally occur in the marsh areas along both sides of the Intracoastal
Waterway extending from Bird Island to the border of Ocean Isle Beach.
These tidal marshlands serve as a critical component in the coastal ecosystem. The marsh is the
basis for the high net yield of the estuary through the production of organic detritus (partially
decomposed plant material) which is the primary input source for the food chain of the entire
estuarine system. Estuarine dependent species of fish and shellfish make up more than 90 percent
of the total value of North Carolina's commercial catch.
The roots and rhizomes and seeds of marsh grasses serve as food for waterfowl, and the stems as
wildlife nesting material. Tidal marsh also serves as the first line of defense in retarding shoreline
erosion. The plant stems and leaves tend to dissipate wave action while the vast network of roots
resists soil erosion. Coastal wetlands operate additionally as traps for sediments, nutrients, and
pollutants originating from urban runoff. Siltation of the estuarine bottom is reduced, and
pollutants and excess nutrients absorbed by plants do not burden the coastal waters. (15A 7H
.205)
These marshes should be considered unsuitable for all development and for those land uses which
alter their natural functions. Inappropriate land uses include, but are not limited to the following
examples: restaurants and businesses; residences, apartments, motels, hotels, and trailer parks;
parking lots and offices; spoil and dump sites; wastewater lagoons; private roads and highways;
and factories. Examples of acceptable land uses may include utility easements, fishing piers,
docks, and certain agricultural uses, except when excavation or filling of navigable waters is
involved.
Estuarine Waters
This AEC is defined as all the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the bays, sounds, rivers, and
tributaries thereto, seaward of the dividing line between coastal fishing waters and inland fishing
waters. In Sunset Beach, estuarine waters include the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway,
adjoining creeks such as Jinks Creek, the major inlets on either end of the island (Tubb's Inlet on
the east end and Mad Inlet on the west end), the finger canals located near the island's center, and
the Calabash River Creek.
The high productivity associated with the estuary results from its unique circulation patterns
caused by tidal energy, fresh water flow, and shallow depth. The nutrient trapping mechanisms
add protection to the many organisms. The circulation pattern of estuarine waters performs a
number of important functions, including transporting nutrients, propelling the plankton,
spreading seed stages of fish and shellfish, flushing wastes from animal and plant He, cleaning the
system of pollutants, controlling salinity, shifting sediments, and mixing the water to create a
multitude of habitats.
v 4-5

Secondary benefits include commercial and sports fisheries, waterfowl hunting, processing
operations, and tourist -related industries. In addition, there is considerable non -monetary value
associated with aesthetics, recreation, and education. (15 7H .206)
Appropriate uses in and around estuarine waters are those which preserve the estuarine waters so
to safeguard and perpetuate their biological, economic and aesthetic values. Highest priority is to
be allocated to the conservation of estuarine waters. Second priority may be given to water
dependent uses such as navigable channels, piers and docks, and mooring pilings, provided that
they do not directly or indirectly block or impair existing navigation channels, increase shoreline
erosion, deposit spoils below mean high tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate
water quality standards or cause degradation of shellfish waters.
Estuarine Shorelines
Estuarine shorelines, although characterized as dry land, are considered a component of the
estuarine system because of the close association with the adjacent estuarine waters. Estuarine
shorelines are those non -ocean shorelines which are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding, or
other adverse effects of wind and water and are intimately connected to the estuary. The extent
of the estuarine shoreline area extends from the mean high water level or normal water level along
the estuaries, sounds, bays, and brackish waters as adopted by the Wildlife Resources Commission
of the NC Department of Environment, Health, and Natural Resources, for a distance of 75 feet
landward.
The shorelines of the Estuarine Waters described previously and 75 feet landward are the
Estuarine Shorelines in Sunset Beach. This includes the shorelines of the Intracoastal Waterway,
Tubb's and Mad Inlets, adjoining creeks, the finger canals, and the Calabash River Creek.
Because development within the estuarine shoreline AEC can harm the marshland and estuarine
waters, and because of the inherent dynamic and hazardous nature of coastal shorelines, specific �J
standards have been adopted by the State for construction in these areas as outlined in NCAC
T1507H.029. A CAMA permit must also be obtained. By regulation all projects cannot weaken
natural barriers to erosion, shall have limited impervious surfaces, and shall take measures to
prevent pollution of the estuary by sedimentation and runoff.
Public Trust Areas
These are described as (1) all the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the lands thereunder from the
mean high water mark to the seaward limit of state jurisdiction; (2) all natural bodies of water
subject to measurable lunar tides and lands thereunder to the mean high water mark; (3) all
navigable natural bodies of water and land thereunder to the mean high water level or mean water
level as the case may be, except privately -owned lakes to which the public has no right of access;
(4) all water in artificially created bodies of water containing significant public fishing resources or
other public resources which are accessible to the public by navigation from bodies of water in
which the public has rights of navigation; and (5) all waters in artificially created bodies of water
in which the public has acquired rights by prescription, custom, usage, dedication, or any other
means.
Public Trust Areas within Sunset Beach are the Intracoastal Waterway, Tubb's Inlet, Mad Inlet,
Ocean Beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean adjacent to the beaches. Adjacent creeks and manmade
canals may also be Public Trust Areas. The significance of the Public Trust Areas is that the
public has rights to them, including navigation and recreation. In addition, these Public Trust
Areas support valuable commercial and sports fisheries, have aesthetic value, and are important
4-6

resources for economic development. (15A 7H .0207)
The State allows appropriate private water dependent development within Public Trust Areas,
provided the development is not detrimental to the environment or to public access. Navigation
channels, piers, marinas, and bulkheads to control erosion are examples of uses which may be
found acceptable.
Outstanding Resource Waters
This AEC classification does not pertain to Sunset Beach.
Ocean Hazards Ocean Hazard Areas of Environmental Concern are areas along the Atlantic
Ocean which are especially vulnerable to erosion and other effects of wind, waves, and water.
Improper development disturbs the natural barrier island dynamics and sediment transport and can
interfere with the beach's natural defenses against erosion. Three Areas of Environmental
Concern comprise the Ocean Hazard Areas in Sunset Beach which are the Ocean Erodible Area,
High Hazard Flood Area, and Inlet Hazard Area. These hazard areas are usually owned by a
large number of individual owners and are utilized by a vast number of visitors to the coast.
Ocean hazard areas are very important considerations in developing land use policies in shore
front communities.
The Ocean Erodible Area is the portion of the island where there exists a substantial possibility of
excessive erosion and significant shoreline fluctuation. The seaward boundary of this area is the
mean low water line. The landward extent of this area is determined as follows:
(1.) a distance landward from the first line of stable natural vegetation to the recession line
that would be established by multiplying the long-term annual erosion rate times 60. Where there
has been no long-term erosion or the rate is less than two feet per year, the distance shall be 120
feet landward from the first line of stable vegetation; and
(2.) a distance landward from the 100-year storm recession line of 200 feet. (15A NCAC
07H .0304).
The total Ocean Erodible Area for Sunset Beach, based on the above definition, would extend to
320 feet. For setback purposes, the rate of erosion has been set at two feet per year. The Town's
ordinances restrict development to no further than.125 feet seaward of the property lot lines
which abut Main Street.
This is the area subject to high velocity waters (including but not limited to hurricane wave wash)
in a storm having a 1 percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year, as identified
as zone V1-30 on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps of the Federal Insurance Administration, US
Department of Housing and Urban Development. (15A NCAC 07H .0304).
The High Hazard Flood Areas in Sunset Beach have been determined by the Flood Insurance Rate
Maps prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The initial flood zones
were determined in November 1972 and were periodically revised with the latest revision dated
August 1992. All areas designated as Zone VE are high hazard flood areas subject to wave
4-7

action. The VE Zone comprises the entire oceanfront as well as Bird Island and adjoining
marshes bordering the Intracoastal Waterway on the western end of the island and land bordering
Tubb's Inlet on the eastern end of the island. The entire barrier island, however, is subject to the
100-year flood zone as well as parts of the mainland bordering the Intracoastal Waterway and the
Calabash River Creek.
Inlet Hazard Area
Inlet Hazard Areas are natural -hazard areas that are especially vulnerable to erosion, flooding and
other adverse effects of sand, wind, and water because of their proximity to dynamic ocean inlets.
This area shall extend landward from mean low water line a distance sufficient to encompass that
area within which the inlet will, based on statistical analysis, migrate, and shall consider such
factors as previous inlet territory, structurally weak areas near the inlet (such as an unusually
narrow barrier island, an unusually long channel feeding the inlet, or an overwash area), and
external influences such as jetties and channelization ... in all cases, these areas shall be an
extension of the adjacent ocean erodible area and in no case shall the width of the inlet hazard
area be less than the width of the adjacent erodible area. (15A NCAC 07H .0304-3).
Sunset Beach has two Inlet Hazard Areas: Mad Inlet on the western end of the island and Tubb's
Inlet on the eastern end of the island. Tubb's Inlet, in particular, has been subject to a great deal
of fluctuation.
4.1.2.2 Coastal Complex Natural Areas
Coastal complex natural areas are defined as lands that support native plant and animal
communities and provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human
activity. Such areas may be either significant components of coastal systems or especially notable
habitat areas of scientific, educational, or aesthetic value. They may be surrounded by landscape
that has been modified but does not drastically alter conditions within the natural areas. Coastal
complex natural areas are significant in that they function as a key biological components of
natural systems and provide habitats suitable for threatened or endangered species or support
plant or animal communities representative of pre -settlement conditions. Coastal complex natural
areas may be designated as an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC) by the Coastal Resource
Commission. There are no designated Coastal Complex Natural Area AECs in the Sunset Beach
Planning Area.
4.1.2.3 Areas that Sustain Remnant Species
Coastal areas that sustain remnant species are those areas that support native plants or animals
which are determined to be rare or endangered (synonymous with threatened and endangered),
within the coastal area. Such places provide habitats necessary for the survival of existing
populations of rare or endangered species within the coastal area and preserve our natural
heritage and protect natural diversity which is related to biological stability.
The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program has identified Bird Island and the Sunset Beach
Wood Stork Ponds (Twin Lakes) as high priority natural areas as noted in the Inventory of the
Natural Areas and Rare Species of Brunswick County, North Carolina. There are also numerous
rare species of plants and animals in the Sunset Beach Planning Area. These species are briefly
noted in Table 4.3.
Bird Island is one of the few undeveloped barrier islands remaining in North Carolina and the only
4-8

undeveloped barrier island remaining in Brunswick County. Bird Island is slightly more than one
mile long and is from 0.1 to 0.4 miles wide. The most prominent natural communities are Salt
Marsh, Upper Beach, Dune Grass, and Maritime Scrub. A number of rare plant and animal
species have been reported on Bird Island including the rare plant, sea beach amaranth. Once
distributed from South Carolina to Massachusetts, this rare plant is now limited to about twenty-
five islands between Cape Hatteras, North Carolina to Cape Romain, South Carolina. The sea
beach amaranth is listed as a State and Federal Threatened species.
The Island has been used sporadically by nesting colonial waterbirds. Black Skimmers have used
Bird Island as a nesting site. Black Skimmers are considered a Special Concern species in North
Carolina because of declines in their populations, apparently because of their sensitivity while
nesting to human disturbance. Bird Island has also been used by Least Terns as a nesting site.
This smallest of the North America terns nests in colonies on beach and island ends which are not
too often disturbed by human visitors. While not yet threatened, Least Terns are declining
because of the ever-increasing usage of their habitat by humans and their pets. Bird Island serves
as a refuge to these colonial nesters because of its undeveloped condition and relatively light
usage by human visitors.
Bird Island is also a nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Certainly, Bird Island, because of its
uninhabitated nature with no street lights is a suitable nesting site for this State and Federal
Threatened Species. The estuarine waters and marshes behind Bird Island serve as a habitat for
the marked goby, a fish which is classified as Significantly Rare in North Carolina.
For these reasons, the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program lists Bird Island as a Priority
Natural Area of Regional Concern and the island is considered worthy of protection. The Bird
Island Preservation Society was formed in September 1992 and has been leading the efforts to
purchase the island in order to preserve it as a natural sanctuary.
The Natural Heritage Inventory for Brunswick County states the following management/
protection recommendation for Bird Island:
Bird Island is under active consideration both for residential development and for
preservation of natural values. In both cases, consideration should be given to
potential impacts in undeveloped areas from recreational use of the island by
visitors or residents. This includes impacts pedestrian traffic might haven bird or
turtle nesting sites, and erosion impacts to dune areas.2
The Sunset Beach Wood Stork Ponds is approximately a 900-acre area in the vicinity of Twin
Lakes. Many of the rare species on the mainland inhabit this area. In addition to the Wood Stork
and American Alligator, the lakes are home to 'many breeding birds such as the Common
Moorhen, the Pied -billed Grebe, the Least Bittern, and other uncommon species. Large number
of herons, egrets, and other wading birds feed along the shoreline of the lakes, and waterfowl feed
along the lakes as well. Two rare plants, the Carolina atamasco lily and Scribner's witch grass,
also are located in this area. Consequently, this area is still considered a Priority Natural Area of
State Significance by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program despite the intrusion of golf
course and residential development.
'North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare
Species of Brunswick County, North CarolinaJune 1995, page 207.
4-9 -

The Natural Heritage Inventory for Brunswick County states the following management/
protection recommendation for the Sunset Beach Wood Stork Ponds (Twin Lakes):
To protect the wildlife values and functions of the ponds and impoundments,
wooded buffer strips should be maintained around the shores to provide roosting
or nesting sites for the birds, as well as protective cover for wildlife. Dead trees
should be allowed to remain standing, as they are often used as roosting sites by
wading birds, and nesting sites by ospreys. Pumping of water for golf course
irrigation should avoid causing the ponds to dry out, and the use of chemicals on
lawns and fairways near the pond should be avoided or minimized. Consideration
should be given to the restoration of the mainland maritime forest in unbuilt areas.'
4.1.2.4 Unique Geological Formations
Unique geological formations are defined as sites that contain geological formations that are
unique or otherwise significant components of coastal systems, or that are especially notable
examples of geological formations or processes in the coastal area. There are no reported unique
geological formations in Sunset Beach.
4.1.2.5 Archaeological and Historic Resources
Fragile coastal cultural resource areas are generally recognized to be of educational, scientific,
aesthetic, or cultural value because of their special importance to our understanding of past
human settlement. There are no Sunset Beach structures listed on the National Register of
Historic Places or identified as worthy of preservation by the N.C. Division of Archives and
History which is not surprising given the area's relatively recent development. However, the
Sunset Beach area was inhabited by Indian tribes. Consequently, this area has 54 prerecorded
archaeological sites scattered mostly on the mainland. Most of these known sites have been
disturbed by modern development, although several in the extraterritorial area have not yet been
disturbed.
4.1.2.6 Maritime Forests
According to the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, most of the once extensive mainland
maritime forests in Sunset Beach have been destroyed by golf course and residential development.
The former extensive forest at Colkins Neck has been severely impacted. So too have the
maritime forests south of NC 179 to the east of the bridge to the island and the Sea Trails
subdivision. These forests are now laced with roads and lots. In addition, the saltwater marshes
along both sides of the Intracoastal Waterway are prime wildlife habitats for many species of birds
and aquatic life.
'North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare
Species of Brunswick CouM, North Carolina_ June 1995, page 203.
4- 10

O
TABLE 4.2
RARE ANIMALS AND PLANT SPECIES LOCATED
IN THE SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA
COMMON NAME
SCIENTIFIC
GENERAL
STATE STATUS
FEDERAL
NAME
LOCATION
STATUS
Animals
Gobionellits
Island
Significantly Rare
-»
Marked Goby
stigmaticus
Piping Plover
Charadrius
Island
Threatened
Threatened
melodus
Black Skimmer
Rynchops niger
Island
Special Concern
-»
Common Ground-
Columina passerina
Island
Significantly Rare
---
Dove
Loggerhead Turtle
Caretta caretta
Island
Threatened
Threatened
American Alligator
Alligator
Mainland
Threatened
Threatened
mississippiensis
Wood Stork
Mycieria americana
Mainland
Endangered
Endangered
Anhinga
Anhinga anhinga
Mainland
Significantly Rare
-»
Red -cockade
Packets borealis
Mainland
Endangered
Endangered
Woodpecker+
lant
Amaranthus
Island
Threatened
Threatened
Seabeach Amaranth
pumilus
Carolina Atamasco
Zephyranthes
Mainland
Candidate
--
Lily
sp. 1
Venus Flytrap
Dionaea muscipula
Mainland
Candidate; Special
Species of
Concern
Concern*
Coralbean
Erythrina herbcea
Mainland
Significantly Rare
-»
Scribner's Witch
Dichanthelium
Mainland
Significantly Rare
-»
Grass
oligosanthes
Rough -Leaf Loose
Lysimachia
Mainland
Endangered
Endangered
strife+
Asperulifolia
* Former Federal C2 Candidate Species
+ Possibility of Occurrence in the Sunset Beach Planning Area According to State Agency
Source: North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, 12/18/96
Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare Species of Brunswick County, North Carolina
4- 11

4.1.2.7 Prime Wildlife Habitats
Prime wildlife habitats are areas supporting large or unusually diverse populations of wildlife or
are habitats for species considered to be rare, endangered, or of special concern. Bird Island and
the Twin Lakes Natural Area serve as prime wildlife habitats for coastal birds and wildlife.
4.1.2.8 Scenic and Prominent High Points
The elevations in all of Sunset Beach are very low, thereby, there are few prominent high points.
4.1.2.9 Identified National Inventory Wetlands
In 1974, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service mandated that an inventory of the nation's wetlands be
conducted. The National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) became operational in 1977. Wetland maps
for Sunset Beach were finalized in 1989 and were produced by stereoscopically interpreting high
altitude photographs of the Town taken in 1983. The information was then transferred to U.S.
Geological Survey maps. Wetlands were identified on the photograph by vegetation, visible
hydrology, and geography. Collateral information also included U.S. Geological Survey
topographic maps and Soil Conservation Service soil surveys.
The intent of the National Wetlands Inventory (NWI) is to provide information concerning
wetlands to local, state, and federal officials. The NWI maps do not define wetlands for
regulatory purposes, especially since the wetland boundaries may not be exact. The NWI maps
are to serve only as a "red flag" showing that an area may contain wetlands. Those considering
land use changes in these areas should obtain a site -specific wetlands determination from a private
consultant or an appropriate government agency such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or the U.S. Soil Conservation Service.
It is not surprising that Sunset Beach has extensive wetlands, given the amount of land which
borders the Atlantic Ocean, the Intracoastal Waterway, the Calabash Creek, as well as the
extensive marsh areas. Basically, there are four types of NWI wetlands in Sunset Beach which are
generally located in areas with the lowest elevation. The wetlands along the Intracoastal
Waterway and the Calabash Creek are classified as estuarine emergent wetlands which includes
saltwater marshes and tidal mudflats with cordgrass and needlerush being the primary vegetation.
There are small pockets of estuarine woody wetlands located on the higher elevation sites
scattered throughout the island's marshes. Wooded swamps along the upper reaches of Calabash
Creek are classified as freshwater woody wetlands. Small pockets of freshwater marshes are
located behind the island's dunes and these typify. freshwater emergent wetlands.
Some "404" wetlands have been identified in Sunset Beach. Further identification of "404"
wetlands requires specific site analysis by the Army Corps of Engineers. Wooded swamps are
simply forested wetlands. Some of the wetlands along the upper reaches of the Calabash Creek
are considered wooded swamps. A pocosin is a wetland with vegetation consisting of scrub
swamp dominated by evergreen heath and hollies with pond pine in the canopy. Generally,
pocosins occur on acid, peats, or sandy soil. There are no pocosins within the Sunset Beach
Planning Area.
4.1.2.10 Anadromous Fish Spawning Areas
There are no anadromous fish spawning areas in the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
4-12

4.1.3 Areas with Resource Potential
4.1.3.1 Agricultural, Forest, and Mining Resources
Sunset Beach, being primarily a beach and golfing resort community, has no major commercial
agriculture, forest, or mining activities. On the mainland there is a small pocket of Foreston soil
and this soil type has been designated as a prime farmland soil in Brunswick County. However,
the small scale of this tract precludes it as suitable for prime farmland. Moreover, there are no
peat or sand mining operations in the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
4.1.3.2 Productive Water Bodies
According to the N.C. Marine Fisheries Division, the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway and the
Calabash Creek are designated as Primary Nursery Areas (PNA) in the Sunset Beach Planning
Area. The PNA areas have been designated by the State as highly productive for juvenile habitat
for marine species. Destruction of these beds, either by dredging and filling or by pollution,
reduces their attractiveness of the PNA. While these estuarine waters are conducive for shellfish
breeding, these waters have been closed for shellfish harvesting by the NC Division of Marine
Fisheries because of the deterioration of water quality. The Primary Nursery Areas for Sunset
Beach are shown on Map 4, the Existing Land Use Map which is attached.
4.1.3.3 Fish and Gamelands
There are no public fish or gamelands within the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
4.1.3.4 Non -intensive Outdoor Recreation Lands
Thousands of visitors come to Sunset Beach each year to enjoy the recreation provided by its
beaches and waterways. Areas used for swimming, fishing, boating, and other outdoor recreation
are important resources to consider in the development of land use policies.
4.1.3.5 Privately -Owned Wildlife Sanctuary
The Twin Lakes area is a Wild Bird Sanctuary. There are no other private wildlife sanctuaries in
the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
4.2 COMMUNITY SERVICE CAPACITY
Of crucial importance to any community experiencing growth and the pressures for more growth
is its capacity to accommodate that growth. The ability of the current and proposed water, sewer,
education, transportation, solid waste, police, fire, rescue, recreation, and town administrative
systems will be examined to determine that systenfs capacity to accommodate the current and
future population. It is estimated that the 1997 Planning Area's year-round population is 1,016
residents and 14,647 peak seasonal residents and that the projected 2007 year-round population
will be 1,649 year-round residents and 21,993 peak seasonal residents (Table 5.2).
4.2.1 Wastewater Management
As discussed previously in Section 3.4.4, Sunset Beach does not now have a centralized sewer
system.' Septic tanks systems as permitted by the Brunswick County Health Department and a
package treatment plant serving the Colony provide on -site disposal systems. Sea. Trail Plantation
is constructing a .5 MGD package plant. The Towns of Sunset Beach and Calabash and
4-13

Brunswick County have formed the South Brunswick Water & Sewer Authority and three citizens
from each entity have been appointed as Authority members. Currently, an Environmental Impact
Statement is being prepared and must be completed prior to the construction and operation of the
proposed regional wastewater and stormwater system. Until such time, residents of the Sunset
Beach must rely upon septic systems and the two package plants.
4.2.2 Drinking Water Supply
The Town of Sunset Beach buys its treated water from Brunswick County. Brunswick County
acquires its raw water from the Lower Cape Fear Water and Sewer Authority. This authority
obtains raw water from the Cape Fear River and the raw water is transported by 13 '/z miles of 48
inch lines to a 24 MGD (million gallons per day) surface treatment plant which has a four million -
gallon storage facility. The treatment plant is located in the Leland area. After treatment, the
water is distributed throughout the county by a network of distribution lines ranging from 48 to 8
inches. The Brunswick County Water Service has a total treatment capacity of 30 million gallons
per day.
The Town is responsible for distribution of the water throughout its jurisdiction. All town
residents are required to be connected to the public water system and pay the minimum water
usage fee. Most ETA residents are also connected to the public water system; therefore, only a
few private wells are now being utilized in the ETA. In January 1997, the distribution system
consisted of approximately 20,000 linear feet of 8 inch lines; 104,000 linear feet of 6 inch lines;
40,500 linear feet of 2 inch lines; and a 200,000 gallon elevated storage tank which needs repair
and maintenance. Water pressure problems exist on the island during the peak season because the
elevated storage tank is drained by the high demand. Insufficient water pressure during the peak
season does pose a constraint for adequate fire protection according to the Sunset Beach
Volunteer Fire Chief. The Town and County studied several options to improve water pressure
to the island. The recommendation is that an additional 12-inch distribution line to the island will
alleviate the water pressure problem and as of February 1998, the Town is applying for a State
Revoling Loan to pay for this improvement.
As of January 1997, the Town had 2,474 customers in the corporate limits and 283 customers in
the extraterritorial limits. The water consumption figures for Sunset Beach are shown in Table
4.3. The Brunswick County Water Service and the Town of Sunset Beach water distribution
system will have sufficient capacity to accommodate the projected 2007 peak seasonal planning
area population of 21,852. At an assumed consumption rate of 70 gallons per day for each
resident, the highest peak day demand would be 1.530 million gallons per day. The Brunswick
County system has a capacity of 30 million gallons per day. The projected peak demand for
Sunset Beach is estimated to be only 5.09 percent of the County's total capacity. Sufficient water
supplies will be available during this planning period.
4- 14

TABLE 4.3
TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH WATER UTILIZATION, JULY 1988 - JUNE 1996
FISCAL YEAR 7
TOTAL MILLION
GALLONS
MILLION
GALLONS/DAY
JULY 1988 - JUNE 1989
75.832
.208
JULY 1989 - JUNE 1990
89.027
.244
JULY 1990 - JUNE 1991
115.079
.315
JULY 1991 - JUNE 1992
92.360
.253
JULY 1992 - JUNE 1993
105.204
.288
JULY 1993 - JUNE 1994
131.772
.361
JULY 1994 - JUNE 1995
148.161
.406
JULY 1995 - JUNE 1996
149.368
.409
Source: Brunswick County Water Service and Town of Sunset Beach
4.2.3 Transportation
The major traffic arteries in Sunset Beach are NC 179 which is the main access road to and from
the mainland, including the Intracoastal Waterway bridge (SR 1172 and Sunset Boulevard on the
�..1 island) and Shoreline Drive on the mainland. NC 904 is another state -maintained road which
connects Sunset Beach to U.S. 17 as well as provides access to Georgetown Road. The other
streets in the Town are neighborhood streets which are maintained by the Town's Public Works
Department. With the exception of the one -lane pontoon bridge, the design capacity of these
state roads is estimated to be sufficient to handle current traffic volumes. Traffic congestion
during the peak season is a problem, especially by the pontoon bridge and at the intersection of
NC 179 and NC 904. Table 4.4 shows the Average Daily Traffic (ADT) counts for the locations
in Sunset Beach where 1995 traffic counts were taken.
Improved bridge access to the island is now the major transportation improvement needed to
improve traffic flow, public safety, fire, rescue, police, and evacuation services in Sunset Beach.
The Town Council passed a resolution in June 1996 stating support of the selection of a high-rise
alternative and urging the NCDOT give its highest priority "to make a selection for a safe,
dependable bridge" and "to remove this peril (one -lane pontoon bridge) from our town." The NC
Department of Transportation had plans to replace the current one -lane pontoon bridge with a
high-rise bridge. However, these plans have been delayed until a new court -ordered
Environmental Impact Statement is completed in 1998. The 1997-2003 NC Transportation
Improvement Plan contains no construction funds for the high-rise bridge or any other major road
improvements in the Sunset Beach area. Acquisition of the right -of way for the preferred bridge
alternative has been completed.
The public safety issue is the major concern of the Town Council and Administration. The bridge
was hit by a barge in 1985 and 1995 and was not operable for both waterway and vehicular traffic
for various times afterward. Improved communication procedures between emergency vehicles
4-15

and the bridge tenders have helped avoid these delays. Also, emergency equipment is stationed
on the island when scheduled maintenance will have the bridge closed to vehicular traffic for any
significant length of time. A problem still exists with unscheduled bridge closures because of 0
mechanical failures, high winds associated with storms, or because extreme tidal conditions. The
one -lane pontoon bridge also affects school bus transportation. Each year incidents occur when
fire and rescue services and school buses are delayed to the island because of bridge congestion
and closure. However, some local residents and visitors prefer the current one -lane bridge citing
"its charm," quaintness, aesthetic and/or lifestyle considerations.
Two road improvements supported in the 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan have been completed.
First, the North Carolina Department of Transportation installed a traffic light at the intersection
of NC 179 and 904. Traffic at this intersection has increased substantially since the opening of the
U.S. Post Office and the Pelican Square shopping center. Secondly, the NCDOT extended
Georgetown Road (SR 1163) from NC 904 to SR 1184 near Ocean Isle. This Georgetown Road
extension reduces traffic on NC 179 between Ocean Isle and Sunset Beach. The Town of Sunset
Beach has requested the NCDOT to install a traffic signal at the intersection of Georgetown Road
and NC 904. The 1997-2003 NC Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) contains no
construction funds for the high-rise bridge or any other major road improvements in the Sunset
Beach area directly within the Sunset Beach Planning Area. However, as shown on Figure 3.1 A
and B, there are several TIP improvements located nearby which will improve access to the
Town.
TABLE 4.4
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC COUNTS FOR SUNSET BEACH, 1995
LOCATION
AVERAGE DAILY TRAFFIC COUNT
East Main St. on island near Continental Motel
600
SR 1172 by restaurants near bridge on mainland
1,800
NC 179 near Fire Station
6,500
NC 179 near NC 904 intersection by the
Prudential Realty Office
7,400
Source: North Carolina Department of Transportation
4.2.4 Schools
Relatively few school -age children in Sunset Beach attend schools in the Shallotte area.
According to the 1990 U.S. Census, there were 32 children in Sunset Beach who were ages five
thru 17. This comprises 10.3 percent of the 1990 year-round population. By and large, Sunset
Beach residents consist of middle -age adults and retirees and this trend is likely to continue.
Growth in Sunset Beach should have little impact upon the Brunswick County School System.
Table 4.5 shows the 1997 school membership and the design capacity for the schools that Sunset
Beach residents attend. While growth in Sunset Beach itself has probably had little direct impact
upon the school system, the growth of Shallotte Township as a whole has impacted the schools.
The Brunswick County School System is determining whether another elementary school may be
needed to be built in the Calabash area within a few years. As shown on Table 4.5, all three
public schools attended by Sunset Beach schoolchildren are over capacity as of February 1997.
Some Sunset Beach children attend the Crary School, a private school located in Shallotte serving
�,i
101

grades K-6.
TABLE 4.5
SCHOOL MEMBERSHIP AND DESIGN CAPACITY, FEBRUARY 1997
SCHOOL
1997
MEMBERSHIP
DESIGN
CAPACITY
PERCENT
UTILIZATION
Union Primary (K-3)
816
735
111.02%
Shallotte Middle (4-8)
960
840
114.29%
West Brunswick High (9-12)
980
905
108.29%
Source: Brunswick County Board of Education
4.2.5 Landfills and Solid Waste Disposal
Currently, Sunset Beach is served by a private contractor for residential garbage collection and
dumpsters in the multi -family and commercial areas. Garbage collection varies between the island
and the mainland. On the island, trash is collected once a week from October through April and
twice a week from May through September. Garbage is collected once a week on the mainland
all year-round. The private contractors transport the Town's garbage to the Brunswick County
landfill. As of January 1, 1998 Brunswick County closed its 55-acre landfill because it did not
have a protective lining as required by federal law. Currently, the County landfill site is
functioning as the major transfer site for the off-loading of smaller garbage truck loads and
reloading onto large haulers for out of the county disposal. The County is now exploring its
options on how best to meet its solid waste disposal needs.
4.2.6 Police Protection
Sunset Beach provides police services for all the corporate limits through one police chief and six
full-time police officers. Auxiliary police officers are also used during the peak summer season or
when conditions warrant their use. All police cars are equipped with cellular phones. The Sunset
Beach Police Department has a mutual aid agreement with the Brunswick County Sheriff
Department. A Community Neighborhood Watch is implemented town -wide. Brunswick County
implemented a 911 system in June 1992 and the town telephone system has been updated to
expedite the use of the 911 system. Two additional police officers are now included in the 1997
budget proposal. The new town hall complex has a police department wing which is a major
improvement over the previous facilities. Future plans may include a separate building for the
Police Department.
4.2.7 Fire Protection
The Sunset Beach Volunteer Fire Department is located at 102 Shoreline Drive West and this
department with 21 volunteers serves both the Town and the extraterritorial area. The Town of
Sunset Beach has assumed the responsibility for the Volunteer Fire Department. Under this
reorganization, the fire department remains a volunteer organization whose Chief is a Town
employee reporting directly to the Town Administrator. The fire station's equipment includes a
1992 fire apparatus engine with a 1,250 g.p.m. pump with 1,000 gallon tank capacity, a 1996
Pierce responder engine with a 1,250 g.p.m. pump with a 1,000 gallon tank capacity, a 1990
Suburban support vehicle, a 1995 Ford Explorer used for medical response calls, and a 12-foot
4-17

Zodiac boat and trailer. The tallest fire ladder available is a 35-foot portable ladder with an
estimated height access of 26 feet. The Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO) recommends that
aerial or quint trucks be available to serve three-story buildings which would include many of the
island residences and mainland condominium buildings. The closest such vehicle is a 75-foot
quint truck stationed at the Ocean Isle Fire Department. This 1995 quint truck replaced the
former 90-foot platform fire truck which had problems crossing the one -lane pontoon bridge
during most tidal conditions. The Fire Department does have mutual aid agreements with the
Calabash and Ocean Isle Beach Volunteer Fire Departments. The Sunset Beach Volunteer Fire
Department is classified as a "First Responder" for medical emergencies and has four Emergency
Technicians on its volunteer force.
The Town has upgraded its water system so that all buildings within the Town's water service
district and Planning Area are within 500 feet of a fire hydrant. The fire insurance rating is
currently a "seven" for the Town and ETA. Brunswick County is examining ways to increase
water pressure to the island in order to improve firefighting capabilities. The Town has upgraded
its water system so that all buildings within the Town's water service district and Planning Area
are within 500 feet of a fire hydrant.
4.2.8 Emergency Rescue and Safety
The Brunswick County Emergency Medical System is the major provider of emergency rescue
services in the county and provides 24-hour service with its professional staff. The main
emergency services facility is located in Bolivia with a daytime substation now located in
Shallotte. The County is negotiating to build a permanent substation on Georgetown Road near
Ocean Isle Beach. This proposed county substation would provide services to southeast
Brunswick County on a more timely basis. The Sunset Beach Fire Department is equipped to be
a "First Responder" and provides initial emergency services. The Calabash and Shallotte
Volunteer Rescue Squads also provide services to the Sunset Beach, Calabash, and Grissettown
areas. Public safety officials contact the Sunset Beach bridge in the event of an emergency on the
island in order to try to have the bridge open for the ambulance. However, there have been
incidences when the ambulance has not been able to get to the island in a timely fashion because
of the bridge being closed. There are no lifeguards at the Town of Sunset Beach.
4.2.9 Recreational Services
The oceanfront and adjacent waterways, six championship golf courses, the miniature golf course
and fishing pier provide the major recreational opportunities for residents and visitors at Sunset
Beach. Sea Trail Plantation and Golf Resort has recently opened the Village Activities Center, a
private, fee -based recreational facility which has indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, tennis
courts, and special children's activities. The Village Activities Center has daily, monthly, and
annual memberships and is open to local residents and visitors. Sunset Beach now has 33 beach
accesses and provides 283 public parking spaces for beach access including the 45-space lot with
a gazebo near the fishing pier. Currently, the Town does not have a formal recreation policy or
operates parks, public boat accesses, estuary accesses, or similar public recreational facilities.
4.2.10 Administrative Services
The Town of Sunset Beach employs a town administrator who is responsible for its management.
The administrator is now assisted by an Assistant Administrator, a Public Works Director, two
Building Inspectors, two financial clerks, two public works employees, one Fire Chief, and one
receptionist. A new town hall with 4,580 square feet was opened in February 1996 and these
new facilities have been a major improvement for the town administration. _
4-18

5.0 ESTIMATED DEMANDS
5.1 POPULATION
An important aspect of the planning process is forecasting the future population of an area.
Unfortunately, population forecasts are usually the least precise element of a land use plan since so
many factors such as annexation, the economy, and new development plans directly impact
demographic projections. This is especially true for a town like Sunset Beach which has a
experienced building boom since the 1980's.
Moreover, the fluctuating nature of town and extraterritorial limits do not make a good point of
reference for long term projections. What will be the Sunset Beach's town limits in 2002 and 2007?
This Town has had 17 annexations since its incorporation in 1963. For this planning document, it
was assumed that town and extraterritorial limits will not change over the next ten years. However,
another major annexation or extension of the ETA limits on the mainland would distort these
projections. Consequently, population projections for both the corporate limits and the current
extraterritorial area are given.
Two methodologies are used to project the Sunset Beach population for 2002 and 2007. First, it was
assumed that the proportion of the Brunswick County population living in the Sunset Beach Planning
Area would remain constant over the next five to ten years. Table 5.1 shows the population -
projections based on this method. The North Carolina Office of State Planning projections for
Brunswick County are utilized. Based on these projections, the Town of Sunset Beach's current
corporate limits would house 969 year-round residents in 2002 and 1,162 year-round residents by the
year 2007. For the current planning area which includes the town and the ETA, it is projected that
the year-round population would be 1,142 year-round residents in 2002 and 1,369 year-round
residents in the year 2007.
5 1

TABLE 5.1 0
YEAR-ROUND POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR
THE SUNSET BEACH PLANNING AREA, 2002 AND 2007
Area
1997
Population
Estimates
% of 1997
County
Population
2002
2007
Brunswick Coun
64,770
----
72,801
87,288
Town of Sunset Beach
862
1.33%
969
1,162
ETA
154
0.24%
173
208
Total Planning Area
1,050
1.62%
1,142
1,369
Source: North Carolina Office of State Planning Population Projections, December 1996
Hayes & Associates
The second methodology focuses on the rate of development. For this methodology, the Sunset
Beach Planning Area is subdivided into two components, the island and the mainland which includes
both the town and the ETA. The 1995 annexation encompassed most of the ETA. However, as of
July 1997, the boundary of the Sunset Beach ETA has not changed since 1992. Consequently, _
building rate trend analysis on the mainland should focus on the broader region which includes both
the corporate limits and the ETA in order to examine changes within the same geographic area. Since
1992, 206 new residential units have been constructed on the island for an average of 41.2 units per
year over this five-year period. The Town/ETA mainland experienced a faster rate of growth with
688 new dwelling units being constructed since 1992 for an average of 137.6 dwelling units per year.
The amount of vacant land on the island is becoming limited and the island will be nearly "built -out"
or at capacity by 2007. However, the amount of vacant land on the mainland is considerable and will
be able to support this rate of development over the next ten years. Based on these rates of
development, the Sunset Beach Planning Area will have 896 new dwelling units by 2002 and 1,788
new units by 2007. Furthermore, it is assumed that the average occupancy rates utilized for
developing the population estimates as stated in Section 3 would remain constant over the next ten
years. These assumptions make it possible to project both the year-round and seasonal residential
population for 2002 and 2007 as stated on Table 5.2. Between 1997 and 2007, the total Sunset
Beach Planning Area year-round population including the island, the mainland, and the ETA will
grow from 1,016 residents in 1997 to 1,333 residents in 2002 and 1,649 residents in 2007. The
Sunset Beach peak seasonal residential population will increase from 14,647 residents in 1997 to
18,333 residents in 2002 and to 21,993 residents in 2007.
Comparisons of the year-round population projections based on these two methodologies reveal
similar predictions. The 2002 projections are slightly different with the county proportion method
5-2,

C O O
TABLE 5.2
RESIDENTIAL POPULATION PROJECTIONS FOR THE SUNSET BEACH BEACH PLANNING AREA, 2002 AND 2007
YEAR
ISLAND
MAINLAND / ETA
PLANNING AREA
(Average of 41.2 dwelling units / ,
(Average of 137.6 dwelling units / year)
ear
Year-
Seasonal
Total
Year-
Seasonal
Total
Year-
11
Seasonal
Total
round
Round
round
1997
121
1,071
1,192
339
1,563
1,902
460
2,634
3,094
Dwelling Units
Population Estimate
267
8,351
8,618
749
5,280
6,029
1,016
13,631
14,647
Housing Use %
10.1%
89.90%
100.00%
17.82%
82.18%
100.00%
6.94%
93.06%
100.00%
Average Occupancy
2.21
7.80
7.23
2.21
3.38
3.17
2.21
5.18
4.73
Rate
2002
141
1,258
1,400
462
2,128
2,590
603
3,387
3,990
Dwelling Units
2002 Population
312
9,810
10,123
1,020
7,190
8,210
1,333
17,000
18,333
Projection
Net Population Change
45
1,459
1,505
271
1,910
2,181
317
3,369
3,686
1997
2007
162
1,442
1,604
584
2,694
3,278
746
4,136
4,882
Dwelling Units
2007 Population
358
11,244
11,602
1,291
9,100
10,391
1,649
20,344
21,993
Projection
Net Population Change
91
2,893
2,984
542
3,820
4,362
633
6,713
7,346
1997
Source: Hayes & Associates Totals may be slightly different due to spreadsheet rounding.

predicting 1,142 Planning Area year-round residents in the year 2002 and the building rate method
predicting 1,333 year-round residents - a difference of 191 year-round residents. Projections for the
year 2007 are also similar. The county proportion method projects 1,369 Planning Area year-round
residents by 2007 whereas the building rate method projects 1,649 year-round residents - a difference
of 280 year-round residents. The building rate projections will be utilized for the 1997 CAMA Land
Use plans because this methodology forecasts both year-round and seasonal housing and peak
residential populations.
5.2 LOCAL OBJECTIVE CONCERNING GROWTH
The local objective regarding growth is to permit quality residential development to continue at low
to medium densities as long as applicable ordinances are met, the environment is protected, and public
services are not overburdened. Within the Town, there is a strong orientation to single-family
dwellings which over the past two decades has proven to be recession proof.
5.3 FORESEEABLE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC CHANGE
Sunset Beach is located within one of the fastest growing regions of the United States. One must first
appreciate the growth of Brunswick County, NC and the Greater Myrtle Beach Area in order to
understand the projected growth for the Sunset Beach Planning Area. New State projections reveal
that Brunswick County's population increased by 11,826 residents since 1990 and 89 percent of this
population growth was attributed to in migration. Brunswick County is now included as part of the
Wilmington metropolitan area. Between 1990 and 1996, the Wilmington -Brunswick County region
had the fastest growth rate of 20.4 percent in North Carolina with the Raleigh -Durham- Chapel Hill
area a close second with a growth rate of 19.6 percent. These two metropolitan areas are the fastest
growing regions in North Carolina with growth rates approximately twice the State growth rate of 10.4
percent.
Sunset Beach is approximately 30 miles from Myrtle Beach and its growth and tourist economy are
directly related to the emergence of the Greater Myrtle Beach Area as one of the top tourist
destinations and retirement areas in the United States. Golfing is a key component of Myrtle Beach's
attraction. According to a 1996 listing obtained from the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce,
there were 96 golf courses in the Greater Myrtle Beach Area including all the 17 golf courses located
within Brunswick County which were operating in 1996 (In 1998 there were 25 golf courses operating
or being developed in Brunswick County.) Estimates show that approximately 3.2 million paid rounds
of golf were played in 1996 from golf packages and walk-ons in the Greater Myrtle Beach Area as
compared to 1.80 million in 1986. The State of South Carolina projects that Horry County which
includes most of the Greater Myrtle Beach Area will grow from 144,053 residents in 1990 to 205,500
residents in 2000 to 305,200 residents in 2015.
Given Sunset Beach's location in one of the fastest growing regions of the United States, growth
trends exhibited over the past seven years are predicted to continue. Golfing will continue to develop
as the leading tourist attraction on the mainland. More day visitors will be attracted to the local
beaches as the mainland year-round and seasonal population continues to grow. 0
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5.4 FUTURE LAND NEEDS
5.4 FUTURE LAND NEEDS
There is sufficient land on the mainland to accommodate future development as predicted by the
housing and population projections stated in Table 5.2. There has been on the average 137.6 dwelling
units built per year in the mainland/ETA since 1992 (Table 5.2) Assuming the same rate of
development over the next ten years, there would be approximately 1,376 units built in the mainland
and ETA by 2007. As of 1997, there were 850 vacant lots within the town limits and 230 vacant
lots within the ETA (Table 3.14.) for a total of 1,080 lots. Moreover, there are numerous vacant
tracts which could be subdivided during the next ten years. There is sufficient vacant land to
accommodate this rate of growth on the mainland and ETA.
However, the island of Sunset Beach is now nearly 70 percent developed and will probably be "built -
out" by the year 2007. The entire island has been subdivided with the exception of the 6.2 acres
"Old Campground" tract. There are 478 vacant lots remaining on the island. There has been on the
average 41.2 dwelling units built per year in the island since 1992 (Table 5.2) Assuming the same rate
of development over the next ten years, there would be approximately 412 units built on the island
by 2007. Consequently, most of the island will be developed by 2007.
It is anticipated that Bird Island will be preserved as a natural sanctuary prior to the construction of
any low -density residential development as permitted by the Conservation Reserve Zoning. It should
be noted that extension of public facilities such as SBWSA centralized wastewater system is not
permitted by the Coastal Barriers Resources Act of 1982 (CBRA).
5.5 DEMAND FOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES
Community facilities demands are included in each of the community facility evaluations provided
in Section 4.2 of this plan.
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6.0 POLICY STATEMENTS
L.J 6.1 PURPOSE OF POLICY STATEMENTS
6.1.2 Background
The formulation of specific policies regarding growth, development, and. management objectives
is perhaps the most important part of any land use plan -- especially those prepared under North
Carolina's Coastal Area Management Act. Because of regulatory requirements and local
peculiarities, the policies often attempt to strike a delicate balance between desires and objectives
of local citizens, the local government, and the objectives of CAMA itself. Land development
policies, which should be based on analyses of existing conditions (including consideration given
to natural and manmade constraints) and projected trends, are to serve as general guides for
future desired development. Under CAMA, the overriding issue is that of growth management
while protecting coastal resources. The special resources and constraints within Sunset Beach
were identified in the previous sections of this plan. The policy statements contained in this
section will address both growth management and protection, and maintenance of these resources.
The Coastal Resources Commission, recognizing the diversities which exist among the coastal
communities, requires each locality to delineate specific development policies under five broad
categories, each with its own subset of policy areas. The five required topics, addressed in order
in this section, are:
• Resource Protection
• Resource Production and Management
• Economic and Community Development
• Continuing Public Participation
• Storm Hazard Mitigation
Although policies developed under these topics cover most of the local development issues, in
some cases they do not. Sunset Beach has the flexibility to address specific community issues
within the scope of this plan and they have done this.
It is important to understand the significance of local CAMA policy statements and how they
interact with day-to-day activities of Sunset Beach. Three areas are affected. First, the policy
statements will regulate the issuance of CAMA minor and major permitting .as required by
N.C.G.S.-113A-118 prior to undertaking any development in any Area of Environmental
Concern. A local government must adopt policies which are, at a minimum, equal to and
consistent with the State's minimum use standards. The local government may, however, adopt
minimum use standards which are stricter than the State's and the local government's stricter
standards would become the determining factor whether a CAMA permit should be issued.
The second area of application is that of establishing local policies and regulations which guide
Sunset Beach's growth and development. Under North Carolina legislation, land use plans are not
regulatory controls. Policy statements must be consistent with and implemented through local
land use ordinances such as zoning or subdivision ordinances.
The final area of application is that of "Consistency Review." Proposals and applications for state
and federal assistance or requests for agency approval of projects are normally reviewed by the
Division of Coastal Management to determine if the project is consistent to the maximum extent
feasible with local policies. Inconsistencies of a federal or state project or permit with local
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policies will in most cases serve as grounds for denial or revision of a project.
The Town of Sunset Beach employed several means of soliciting meaningful citizen participation
in developing policies. Monthly meetings with Sunset Beach Planning Board and planning
consultant were held since October 1996 in order to prepare the Land Use Plan Update and these
meetings were open to the public. Public meetings were held on March 27 and July 28, 1997 and
citizens helped to identify planning issues as well as to suggest policy alternatives. A survey was
mailed to 2,900 property owners in both the town and its extraterritorial area in November 1996.
By the January 15 deadline, 994 out of the 2,900 questionnaires had been received for a total
response rate of 34 percent. It should be noted that the survey elicited a voluntary response and
therefore, it is not considered to be a scientific, random survey. However, the survey was a
valuable form of input, especially since it gave nonresident property owners a chance to state their
opinions. A detailed summary of the public meetings and survey results are included in Section
9.0.
The following policies were developed to provide a general framework for guiding growth and
development in Sunset Beach over the next five years.
6.1.2 Policy Format
Each major category in the policy section of the land use plan is addressed according to the
following format:
Policy Identification A brief summary of the issues, relevant findings and, where
applicable, alternative policy responses.
Policy Statement Statement(s) of local government principle designed to achieve
legitimate public objectives related to the issue.
Policy Implementation Measures used by the Town to implement the policy.
It is important to understand that the policy identification is not policy, and does not carry the
same degree of importance as the actual policy statements. This narrative is designed to provide
background and rationale for the ensuing policy statements. In most instances, the discussion
serves to identify a problem or issue, and may present a summary of findings from other technical
studies. There is no intent to establish policy within any discussion section. More detailed
discussions of issues related to policies are found in the earlier information sections of the Plan.
The policy statements, on the other hand, must be viewed in a different light. As statements of
local government principle, the policies should remain substantially unchanged during the five-
year planning period. Frequent changes to the policies would undermine their effectiveness in
achieving intended goals and objectives. Indeed, the policies are designed to maintain a consistent
and predictable direction for local government decisions affecting local growth and development
during the planning period. In reviewing the pages that follow, the reader is asked to focus
greatest attention on the policies, while relying upon the discussion primarily as explanations as to
intent.
6.2 COMMUNITY VISION STATEMENT FOR NEXT TEN YEARS
The CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines suggest that the policy section begin with an overall
guiding policy regarding future growth and development. The Town of Sunset Beach is generally
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EO
known throughout the coastal areas as having a high quality of life and the quality of its natural
and manmade environment. The Town has also been successful in directing development and
redevelopment in keeping with a small town, family -oriented community. The following vision
statement emphasizes the need for diligence in working to retain these quality features.
The residents, property and business owners of the Sunset Beach Planning Area shall
endeavor to preserve the small town character of our community with orderly growth which
enhances its appeal as a family resort and retirement community. Our goal is to preserve and
improve the quality of the natural and manmade environment which has become the basis for
our quality of life at Sunset Beach.
6.3 RESOURCE PROTECTION
6.3.1 Areas of Environmental Concern
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach will support and enforce through its CAMA permitting capacity the State policies
and permitted uses in the Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). The State's policy
statements for AEC's offer protection for Sunset Beach fragile areas through the CAMA
permitting procedures. In accordance with those policies set forth in Subchapter 7H of the North
Carolina Administrative Code, Sunset Beach adopts the following policies concerning AEC's
within its jurisdiction. The Areas of Environmental Concern for Sunset Beach are discussed in
Section 4.0.
Policy Statement
The Town will support and enforce through its CAMA minor permitting capacity the State
policies and permitted uses in Areas of Environmental Concern (AEC's). Such uses shall be in
accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, estuarine
shorelines, and public trust areas as stated in ISA NCAC Subchapter 7H. The Town supports
the major and general permitting process as implemented by the North Carolina Division of
Coastal Management.
Implementation
Town CAMA Minor Permitting Program, NC Division of Coastal Management Major and
General Permitting Program
6.3.1.1 Estuarine System
Policy Identification
In recognition of the enormous economic, social and biological values the estuarine system has for
North Carolina, Sunset Beach will promote conservation and management of the Estuarine
System as a whole which includes the individual subsystems of coastal wetlands, estuarine waters,
public trust waters, and estuarine shorelines. The management objective for the system shall be to
give highest priority to the protection and coordinated management of all the elements as an
interrelated group of AEC's in order to safeguard and perpetuate the above stated values, and to
minimize the likelihood of significant loss of private property and public resources.
Specific policies regarding acceptable and unacceptable uses within the individual AEC's of the
estuarine system are stated below. In essence, the permitted land uses in these areas shall be those
which are water dependent. In all cases the particular location, use, and design characteristics
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shall be in accord with the general use standards for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters, and public
trust areas as stated in 15A NCAC 7H.
Policy Statements
(1,) Coastal Wetlands
Due to the critical role that wetlands play in protecting the quality of estuarine waters and in
providing habitat for fish and wildlife, the Town strongly supports the designation and
preservation of all remaining coastal wetlands and freshwater marshes It shall be the policy of
Sunset Beach to restrict land uses in coastal wetlands and freshwater marshes to those that
ensure wetland conservation and which do not affect their delicate balance. Sunset Beach shall
permit water dependent uses such as docks, boat ramps, piers, utility easements, and culverts,
consistent with the definition and use standards of 15 NCAC 7H. Each proposed use will be
evaluated for water dependency. Unacceptable land uses may include, but would not be limited
to restaurants, businesses, residences, apartments, motels, hotels, floating structures, private
roads, and parking lots. In some instances, it may be necessary and in the public interest for
public roads to transverse wetland areas. Where this is absohutely necessary, state and federal
regulations may allow such with certain safeguards and/or mitigation measures.
(2) Estuarine Waters
In recognition of the importance of estuarine waters for the fisheries and related industries as
well as aesthetics and recreation, Sunset Beach shall promote the conservation and quality of
this resource. Appropriate uses may include simple access channels, structures which prevent
erosion, navigational channels, boat docks, piers, and mooring pilings which are consistent with
15 NCAC 7H.0208. The proposed centralized sewer system shall be encouraged as a means to
eliminate pollution from malfuurctioning or inadequate septic systems and/ or package treatment
plants. The development of boat launching and dry -storage boat docking facilities shall be
supported as a means of providing public water access provided that their development shall not
adversely impact estuarine resources or Public Trust Areas. Floating structures as defined in
Policy 6.3.8 shall be banned in order to protect our estuarine and Public Trust Areas. The Town
will support those projects which will increase the productivity of the estuary such as oyster
reseeding or dredging projects which will increase the flushing actions of tidal movements in
Jinks and Blaine Creeks.
(3) Public Trust Areas
The State of North Carolina and the Town of Sunset Beach hold its beaches and waters in public
trust and promotes public access to these areas. In the absence of overriding public benefit, any
use which significantly interferes with the public right of navigation or other public trust rights
which apply in the area shall not be allowed. Projects which would directly or indirectly block
or impair navigational channels, increase shoreline erosion, deposit spoils below mean high
tide, cause adverse water circulation patterns, violate water quality standards, or cause
degradation of shellfush waters shall not be allowed. For the Town of Sunset Beach, a
navigational channel will be defined as any water channel which is passable by boats during
high tide. Permanent obstruction of these navigational channels will not be allowed
Improvements such as bridges and docks must be built to allow boating access according to
State regulations. Uses allowed in Public Trust Areas shall be in accordance with NCAC
7H.0208(b)(1) and shall not be detrimental to the public trust rights and the biological and
physical functions of the estuary. Examples of such uses include the development of
navigational channels or drainage ditches, the use of bulkheads to prevent erosion, and the
building of piers or docks.
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0
(4) Estuarine Shorelines
Suitable land uses within the estuarine shorelines are those compatible with both the dynamic
nature of estuarine shorelines and the value of the estuarine system. Sunset Beach recognizes
the close association between estuarine shorelines and the adjacent estuarine waters; the
inj7uence that shoreline development has on the quality of estuarine life; and that the damaging
processes of shorefront erosion andflooding to which the estuarine shoreline is subject. Within
the Estuarine Shoreline Area, the Town of Sunset Beach believes that certain developed uses
should only be permitted which are consistent with IS NCAC 7H and as further defined by the
Town's building, development and stormwater ordinances, and which satisfy the following
requirements. 1) natural barriers to erosion are not weakened or eliminated, 2) development
does not interfere with present public access; 3) the amount of runoff is unchanged, 4) no
pollution is generated, S) standards of the North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Act of 1973,
amended 1990, are upheld, 6) the construction of impervious surfaces and areas not allowing
natural drainage is limited to that necessary for development, and stormwater management
provisions of the Town Ordinances and SBWSA are upheld.
Development of estuarine system islands shall be permitted only if proper measures are taken by
the developer to provide for sufficient hurricane evacuation, utilities provision, access on and off
the island, pollution control, and other design considerations that will ensure compatibility of
the development with the estuarine systems.
51 Outstanding Resource Waters: None within the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
Implementation
Sunset Beach believes that the existing development permit system enforced by CAMA, the U.S.
Corps of Engineers, combined with the Town's Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations,
Stormwater Management, and Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan, represent adequate
measures to protect the discussed resources. Enforcement of these provisions will continue.
6.3.1.2 Ocean Hazards Areas
Policy Identification
Ocean Hazards Areas of Environmental Concern are the second broad category of AEC's
occurring in Sunset Beach. These are areas along the Atlantic Ocean shoreline which have a
special vulnerability to erosion or other adverse effects of sand, wind, and water. Because of this
vulnerability, improperly managed growth and development could expose life and property to
unreasonable levels of danger. The ocean hazards areas for Sunset Beach include the AEC's of
ocean erodible areas, high hazard flood areas, and inlet hazard areas. For both the ocean erodible
and inlet hazard areas, development of any type is tightly controlled by existing regulations and
enforcement provisions. It is the susceptibility to change from the constant forces of waves, wind,
and water which cause these areas to be "hazardous." These forces are magnified during storms
and can cause significant changes in land forms. It is the flexibility of these dunes and beaches
which also lends protection as the first line of defense for the development located behind them.
The important, basic, and essential function of the beach and dunes is their capacity for storing
sand, serving to absorb and thereby dissipate the initial impact of excessive wind and waves. Thus
it is important to consider policies which are aimed both at protecting the land forms of dunes and
beaches as well as any structures which are allowed to be constructed in those areas.
Policy Statements
Generally, all land uses in the area classified under the Ocean Hazards category which are the
ocean erodible, high hazard flood, and inlet hazard areas for Sunset Beach shall be consistent
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with the requirements of existing State, Federal, and local regulations, and the Sunset Beach
Zoning Ordinance, Subdivision Regulations, Dune Maintenance and Protection Plan, the Town's
requirements for the National Flood Insurance Program, and the Town's building set back line.
Suitable land uses in ocean hazard areas are generally those which eliminate unreasonable
danger of life and property, and which achieves a balance between the financial, safety, and
social factors involved in hazard area development. Residential and recreational land uses and
parking lots for beach access are also acceptable types of use in ocean hazard areas provided
that:
• For small structures such as residences, setback measurements begin at the first line
of stable, natural vegetation as the first line from which setbacks for small structures
should be measured and continue inland to a depth 60 times the average annual
erosion rate.
• Development does not involve the removal or relocation of frontal dune sand or
vegetation thereon.
• Mobile homes are not allowed within the high hazard flood areas on the island and
on the mainland must conform to federal flood insurance regulations and standards
established in the North Carolina Building Code.
• Development is consistent with minimum lot sizes and setback requirements
established by local regulations.
• Development implements means and methods to mitigate or minimize adverse impacts
of the project on the environment and protect the habitat of threatened and
endangered plant and animal species.
Development of growth -inducing public facilities such as sewers, water lines, public roads,
bridges, and erosion control measures shall only be permitted in the cases where:
• National and state interest and public benefits are clearly the overriding factor.
• Facilities would not exacerbate existing hazards or damage natural barriers,)
• Facilities would be reasonably safe from flood and erosion related damage.
• Facilities would not promote growth in ocean hazard areas previously not platted and
recorded
• Development will not create undue interference with the legal rights to public access
and the use of such areas.
Development of growth-itrducitig facilities such as public sewers, public water lines, public
roads, and public bridges shall not be permitted in designated CBRA areas such as Bird Island.
Sunset Beach continues to support comprehensive shoreline management such as the Corps of
Engineers beach renourishment projects as the preferred control measure to combat oceanfront
erosion. When existing dunes are "added to" this shall be accomplished it) a manner which
minimizes damage to existing vegetation and which establishes one continuous dune line. Any
areas filled will be replanted immediately or stabilized temporarily until planting can be
successfully completed The Town of Sunset Beach implements a beach renourishment plan to
encourage dune stabilization. The Town plants and fertilizes American beach grass and installs
sand fencing along the dunes
Prior to the issuance of any permit for development in the Ocean AEC's, there should be written
acknowledgment from the applicant that he is aware of the risks associated in that area and
whether participation in the Federal Flood Insurance Program is possible.
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Implementation
Sunset Beach will enforce its local regulations as cited above and will continue to support the
CAMA major and minor permitting process, and the Corps of Engineers 404 wetlands permitting
programs. The Town of Sunset Beach will stabilize the dune line by installing sand fencing and
planting American beach grass and by enacting a Dune Protection Ordinance. As part of the
Town's participation in the Community Rating Service (CRS) program, the "At Risk" statement
signed by the original CAMA applicant is transferred to new, property owners at the time that
utilities transfer arrangements are made.
6.3.2 Other Natural Fragile Ar
Uncontrolled or incompatible development may result in the major 'or irreversible damage to
fragile coastal resource areas which contain environmental, natural, historical or archaeological
resources of more than local significance. In recognition of this, it is the policy of Sunset Beach
to encourage the protection of such natural or cultural resources. If development of land
containing natural fragile areas is permitted, the project should be developed in such a fashion as
to preserve its natural significance. As discussed in Sections 4.1.2.2 through 4.1.2.10, Sunset
Beach has the following. types of natural and cultural resource areas within its jurisdiction: ,
coastal areas that sustain remnant species, prime wildlife habitats, wooded swamps, 404 wetlands,
and significant archaeological resources. However, there are no coastal complex natural areas,
maritime forests, unique geological formations, currently registered natural landmarks, pocosins,
scenic or prominent high points, or historic architectural resources located within the Planning
Area.
6.3.2.1 Coastal Complex Natural Areas
Coastal complex natural areas are defined as lands that support native plant and animal
communities and provide habitat qualities which have remained essentially unchanged by human
activity. Such areas may be either significant components of coastal systems or especially notable
habitat areas of scientific, educational, or aesthetic value. They may be surrounded by landscape
that has been modified but does not drastically alter conditions within the natural areas. Coastal
complex natural areas are significant in that they function as key biological components of natural
systems and provide habitats suitable for threatened or endangered species or support plant or
animal communities representative of pre -settlement conditions. Coastal complex natural areas
may be designated as an Area of Environmental Concern (AEC's) by the Coastal Resource
Commission. There are no designated Coastal Complex Natural Area AECs in the Sunset Beach
Planning Area, although Bird Island was considered for this designation by the Planning and
Special Issues Committee of the Coastal Resources Commission in November 1994.
6.3.2.2 Areas that Sustain Remnant Species
Policy Identification
Coastal areas that sustain remnant species are those areas that support native plants and animals
which are threatened to be rare or endangered. The North Carolina Natural Heritage Program
has identified Bird Island and the Sunset Beach Wood Stork Ponds (Twin Lakes) as high priority
natural areas as rioted in the Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare Species of Brunswick
CouuZ North Carolina. There are also numerous rare species of plants and animals in the Sunset
Beach Planning Area as discussed in Section 4.1.2.3 and Table 4.3..
Bird Island is one of the few undeveloped barrier islands remaining in North Carolina and the only
undeveloped barrier island remaining in Brunswick County. Bird Island is slightly more than one
Cal

mile long and is from 0.1 to 0.4 miles wide. The most prominent natural communities are Salt
Marsh, Upper Beach, Dune Grass, and Maritime Scrub. A number of rare plant and animal
species have been reported on Bird Island including the rare plant, sea beach amaranth. Once
distributed from South Carolina to Massachusetts, this rare plant is now limited to about twenty-
five islands between Cape Hatteras, North Carolina to Cape Romain, South Carolina. The sea
beach amaranth is listed as a State and Federal Threatened species. For these reasons, the North
Carolina Natural Heritage Program lists Bird Island as a Priority Natural Area of Regional
Concern and the island is considered worthy of protection.
The Natural Heritage Inventory for Brunswick County states the following management/
protection recommendation for Bird Island:
Bird Island is under active consideration both for residential development and for
preservation of natural values. In both cases, consideration should be given to
potential impacts in undeveloped areas from recreational use of the island by visitors
or residents. This includes impacts pedestrian traffic might have on bird or turtle
nesting sites, and erosion impacts to dune areas.'
The owner of Bird Island submitted a Major CAMA Permit application to build a bridge and
causeway system to the island in January 1992 with the intent of developing the island for
residential use. Bird Island was not zoned at the time the CAMA permit was submitted. In 1993,
Bird Island was zoned as Conservation Reserve which provides for the management of major
wetlands, open spaces, undeveloped shorelines, undeveloped barrier and estuarine islands, and
significant plant and wildlife habitats and permits single-family residences only in the upland areas.
Meanwhile, the Bird Island Preservation Society was formed in September 1992 and has been
leading the efforts to purchase the island in order to preserve it as a natural sanctuary.
The Sunset Beach Wood Stork Ponds is approximately a 900-acre area in the vicinity of Twin
Lakes. Many of the rare species on the mainland inhabit this area. In addition to the Wood Stork
and American Alligator, the lakes are home to many breeding birds' such as the Common
Moorhen, .the Pied -billed Grebe, the Least Bittern, and other uncommcn species. Large number
of herons, egrets, and other wading birds feed along the shoreline of the lakes, acid waterfowl feed
along the lakes as well. Two rare plants, the Carolina atamasco lily and Scribner's witch grass,
also are located in this area. Consequently, this area is still considered a Priority Natural Area of
State Significance by the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program despite the intrusion of golf
course and residential development.
The Natural Heritage Inventory for Brunswick County_ states the following management/
protection recommendation for the Sunset Beach Wood Stork Ponds (Twin Lakes):
To protect the wildlife values and functions of the ponds and impoundments, wooded
buffer strips should be maintained around the shores to provide roosting or nesting
sites for the birds, as well as protective cover for wildlife. Dead trees should be
allowed to remain standing, as they are often used as roosting sites by wading birds,
and nesting sites by ospreys. Pumping of water for golf course irrigation should avoid
causing the ponds to dry out, and the use of chemicals on lawns and fairways near the
pond should be avoided or minimized. Consideration should be given to the
'North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare
Species of Brunswick County, North Carolina. June 1995, page 207.
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restoration of the mainland maritime forest in unbuilt areas.'
Policy Statements
Areas that contain remnant species will be classified as Conservation for the 1997 CAMA Land
Use Update Classification Map. All development plans for areas that contain remnant species
will be carefully reviewed prior to the issuance of development permits in order to protect the
habitat.
The Town of Sunset Beach supports efforts by the State, the Bird Island Preservation Society, the
Coastal Land Trust, the Natural Heritage Trust Fund, and other conservation groups to acquire
Bird Island through purchase in order to preserve the island as a natural sanctuary.
The Town of Sunset Beach supports the efforts of the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation
Association to protect and enhance the Twin Lakes area.
Implementation
The Conservation Reserve zoning provisions for Bird Island will be enforced if development plans
are submitted by the owner. All development plans for areas that contain remnant species will be
carefully reviewed prior to the issuance of development permits in order to protect the habitats.
The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to support the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation
Association.
6.3.2.3 Prime Wildlife Habitats
Policy Identification
Prime wildlife habitats are areas supporting large or unusually diverse populations of wildlife or
are habitats for species considered to be rare, endangered, or of special concern. Bird Island, the
Twin Lakes Natural Area, the inlets, beachfront, and the coastal marshes serve as prime wildlife
habitats. Development in these areas will be regulated by the CAMA major and minor permitting
process and/or local development ordinances discussed previously.
Policy Statement
The prime wildlife habitats in the Sunset Beach Planning Area are currently classified as Areas
of Environmental Concern. The Town will continue to protect its prime wildlife habitats by
enforcing the CAMA major and minor permitting program. The Town of Sunset Beach supports
the efforts of the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation Association to protect and enhance the
Twin Lakes area.
Implementation
Administration of the CAMA permitting program. The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to
support the Twin Lakes Residents Conservation Association.
6.3.2.4 Protection of Wetlands
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach has some federal wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act within
its jurisdiction including wooded swamps. These wetlands are regulated by the Corps of
'North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. InventoEy of the Natural Areas and Rare
Species of Brunswick County_ North Carolina, June 1995, page 203.
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Engineers and are identified by on site delineation.
Policy Statement
The Town of Sunset Beach supports the preservation of wetlands through the enforcement of 404
regulations.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will support the administration of 404 regulations by the Corps of
Engineers.
6.3.2.5 Maritime Forests and Tree Cover
Policy Identification
According to the North Carolina Natural Heritage Program, most of the once extensive maritime
forests in Sunset Beach have been altered by golf course and residential development. Even so,
tree cover at Sunset Beach is a highly regarded asset.
Policy Statement
Tree cover at Sunset Beach, whether maritime or otherwise is a highly valued asset. The Town
encourages efforts to preserve tree cover in new development and redevelopment. The Town
promotes the planting of trees and natural areas in its landscaping regulations and subdivision
ordinance. The Sunset Beach Planning Board will study the feasibility of adopting a tree
ordinance which promotes the conservation of trees.
Implementation
Town Landscaping Regulations and Subdivision Ordinance. The Planning Board and Town
Council will study the feasibility of adopting a tree ordinance.
6.3.2.6 Significant Archaeological Resources
Policy Identificgtion
The mainland of 'Sunset Beach was inhabited by Indians and 54 prerecorded archaeological sites
have been recorded within the Planning Area. Most of these sites have already been disturbed by
development, although a few in the extraterritorial area have not yet been disturbed.
Policy .Statement
There are some undisturbed archaeological resources within Sunset Beach's Planning Area. The
Town believes that all development plans in such identified areas should be carefully reviewed
prior to approval and that the NC Division of Archives and History should be contacted
Moreover, the State Division of Archives and History will be contacted if any additional
archaeological sites previously not recorded are discovered.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will maintain information concerning the location of archaeological
sites within its Planning Area. If a development permit request is submitted for an area that
contains a prerecorded site, the applicant will be informed and the State Division of Archives and
History will be contacted prior to the approval of the requested permit.
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6.3.2.7 Shellfishing Waters
Policy Identification
Most estuarine waters of Sunset Beach are now closed for shellfishing. The Jinks Creek/ Tubbs
Inlet on the eastern end of the island is the only exception. The Town of Sunset Beach hopes to
reverse the negative impact of water pollution by supporting more effective local and regional
stormwater management and by providing a centralized sewer system.
Policy .Statement
The Town supports and encourages the activities of the State's Shellfish Management Program.
The Town promotes water quality through its stormwater ordinance and participation in the
stormwater management and regional sewer system now being planned and implemented by the
South Brunswick Water and,SewerAuthority (SBWSA).
Implementation
Stormwater Ordinance, SBWSA
6.3.2.8 Manmade Hazards
There are no manmade hazards such as , industries or airports within the Sunset Beach Planning
Area.
6.3.3 Constraints to Development
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach has two major physical constraints for development: the general lack of soils
suitable for septic tank use and the amount of land included in the 100-year floodplain. These
constraints are discussed in Sections 4.1.1.2 and 4.1.1.3. The lack of soils generally suitable for
septic tank use is a major concern for the Town which does not currently have a centralized sewer
system, but is pursuing the development of a regional system with the South Brunswick Water
and Sewer Authority. The Brunswick County Health Department issues permits for all septic
systems including off -site septic systems. The construction of off -site septic systems as permitted
by the Health Department has been a longstanding development practice in Sunset Beach and
other Brunswick County coastal communities which is now clarified by the revised policy.
Poli T Statements
Until such time as a central sewerage collection and disposal system is developed, growth and
development will be restricted to those which receive the appropriate septic permits issued by the
Brunswick County Health Department or are serviced by a private utility or package plant. All
septic tanks must be in compliance with State Health Regulations as permitted by the Brunswick
County Health Department. Off -site septic systems have been a longstanding development
practice in Sunset Beach and such systems will be permitted until such time that a sewer system
is developed.
Development may be constructed in areas with limitations for building foundations only if
corrective measures for stabilizing foundations are incorporated into the building design.
All new construction and substantial improvements in the 100 year flood zones must comply
strictly to the Town's Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance which has been adopted in
conjunction with Sunset Beach's participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
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Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to enforce its Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance and
Building Code as well as support the enforcement of the septic tank regulations by the Brunswick
County Health Department. The Brunswick County Health Department requires all off -site septic
systems to be recorded on a deed.
6.3.4 Protection of Potable Water Supplie
Polia Identification
Since July 1984 Sunset Beach has been receiving all its water supply from the Brunswick County
Water System. Public wells are no longer utilized as a water supply back up during peak periods.
Only a few private wells in the ETA are now utilized.
Policy Statement
Sources of potable surface and groundwater for the Sunset Beach Planning Area shall be
protected to the maximum extent possible.
Implementation
The Brunswick County Health Department and the Town of Sunset Beach will regulate land uses
near wells through its zoning ordinance and will enforce site requirements that private wells be
located suitable distances from septic tank systems.
6.3.5 Use of Package Treatment Plants
Policy Identification
Ground absorption systems are the main means of sewerage disposal for the Town, until such
time that the centralized sewer system is built. There are two package treatment plants now
serving the Colony complex in Oyster Bay and Sea Trail Plantation. If the centralized sewer
system is not developed, one can anticipate that additional package treatment plants may be built
to serve larger residential development on the island and the mainland. This is especially true
since most of the remaining undeveloped mainland soils are "hardpan" soils which generally are
not suitable for septic tanks.
Polia Statement
It shall be the policy of Sunset Beach to allow package treatment plants where they are deemed
necessary and if they can be constructed with the overall intent of this plan and meet all federal
and state environmental regulations. If and when centralized sewer facilities are made available
to areas served by package plants, the hookup to the sewer facilities will be required, and the
package plant(s) eliminated. Off -site package plants as permitted by the Brunswick County
Health Department will be allowed until such time that a sewer system is developed.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will support enforcement of package treatment plant regulations by
the Brunswick County Health Department and the State of North Carolina. Package plants will
be eliminated upon the availability of centralized sewer service.
6.3.6 Stormwater Runoff
Policy Identification
The Town of Sunset Beach shares the concerns of the Water Quality Management Board of the
South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority (SBWSA) and the State Division of Environmental
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Management (DEM) that stormwater runoff contributes to the decline of surface water quality.
Maintenance of water quality is important to Sunset Beach. The Town recognizes the value of
water quality maintenance in terms of protecting the public health and fishing resources as well as
providing clean water for other recreational purposes. The Town is concerned about the potential
adverse effects of stormwater runoff from septic systems and golf course developments. In 1994
the NC Division of Coastal Management awarded Sunset Beach a grant to develop a Stormwater
Ordinance. The Town of Sunset Beach adopted its Stormwater Management Ordinance on
August 7, 1995. The ordinance requires new construction to manage the stormwater runoff
generated by its development. This ordinance was just the first step for the Town and the South
Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority (SBWSA) to address storm water problems. The
SBWSA is developing a regional Stormwater Quality Management Program (SWQMP) for the
South Brunswick area which includes the entire Sunset Beach Planning Area.
The primary purpose of the SWQMP is to remediate existing point and non -point pollution from
stormwater runoff. Testing and monitoring of stormwater runoff is now being conducted. These
tests measure the pollutant loading at major and minor stormwater outfall locations that flow to
the Calabash River, the Caw Caw Swamp, the headwaters of the Shallotte River, and the
Intracoastal Waterway via tidal estuaries from adjacent mainland areas and the Island of Sunset
Beach. Once the testing has been analyzed for each defined drainage basin, then stormwater
treatment devices will be designed and constructed to remove the pollutants prior to the
stormwater reaching the shellfish waters.
Policy .Statements
Stormwater runoff from new development will be reduced by enacting improved stormwater
control regulations The Town of Sunset Beach encourages the .use of "innovative" systems
which encourage the use of pervious or semi pervious materials and the retention of natural
vegetation which functions as a filter to minimize the rapid release of pollutants to coastal
waters through stormwater runoff. The general intent of the stormwater regulations will be to
encourage the percolation of stormwater into the ground and reduce, or eliminate non -point
sources of pollution.
Tke proposed centralized sewer system is supported as a means to eliminate runoff of surfaced
effluent from ma fiuictiomng or inadequate on -site septic systems
The Town will review its current drainage system and determine optimal improvements on a site
by site basis.
Stormwater management planning can best be handled on a regional drainage basis._ The Town
of Sunset Beach supports the regional comprehensive stormwater management plan of the South
Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority and its efforts to obtain grants from the Clean Water
Trust Fund This plan includes the entire Sunset Beach PlanningArea.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to enforce those building code regulations and
stormwater management ordinance which pertain to stormwater control. The proposed
centralized sewer system will reduce pollution from surfaced effluent. The existing stormwater
drainage system will be evaluated. The Town of Sunset Beach will support efforts to conduct a
regional stormwater management plan and the efforts of the South Brunswick Water and Sewer
Authority to obtain grants from the Clean Water Trust Fund.
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6.3.7 Marina and Floating Home Development. Moorings. and Dry Stack Storage
Policy Identification
According to the CAMA guidelines T15A: 07H.0208, marinas are defined as any publicly or
privately owned dock, basin or wet boat storage facility constructed to accommodate more than
10 boats and providing any of the following services: permanent or transient docking spaces, dry
storage, fueling facilities, haulout facilities and repair service. Excluded from this definition are
boat ramp facilities allowing access only and temporary docking facilities which do not have any
of the preceding services. Policy concerning upland marinas is stated in Section 6.3.11.
According to CAMA guidelines T15A: 07M .0602, floating structures are defined as any
structure, not a boat, supported by a means of flotation, designed to be used without a permanent
foundation, which is intended for human habitation or commerce. A structure will be considered
a floating structure when it is used for human habitation or commercial purposes for more than 30
days in one location. A boat may be deemed a floating structure when its means of propulsion has
been removed or rendered inoperative and it contains at least 200 square feet of living space.
Policy Statement
The development of marinas, private boat slips, and dry stack storage facilities in the Sunset
Beach Planning Area is generally supported in concept. Commercial marinas and boat dry -
stacking storage facilities are not currently permitted uses and the zoning ordinance would have
to be modified before such development could occur. Upland excavation for marina basins will
not be allowed. Moorings must conform to all CAMA and State regulations In recent years,
Sunset Beach and other coastal communities have become increasingly concerned over the issue
of 'floating homes, " i.e., waterborne vessels used not only as "boats" but as permanent
domiciles In Sunset Beach, the issue of floating homes has not been a significant problem. The
Town is supportive of the State's policies on floating structures and believes that floating homes
should not be allowed within its Public Trust Areas. In order to minimize environmental impact,
the Town of Sunset Beach prefers dry -boat stacking storage rather than wet slip marinas.
Implementation
Through the CAMA major and minor permitting processes and the zoning ordinance.
6.3.8 Industrial Impacts on Fragile Areas
There are, no industries located within Sunset Beach and industrial use is not a permitted use in
the Town's zoning ordinance. The lack of suitable land at reasonable prices and the general
incompatibility of industrial development within a resort and retirement community precludes the
prospects of such development within the Sunset Beach Planning Area. Consequently, there are
no anticipated negative impacts by industrial use on the Town's fragile areas.
6.3.9 Development of Sound and Estuarine System Islands
Policy Identification
In addition to Bird Island, there are several freestanding spoil islands along the Intracoastal
Waterway. These privately -owned spoil islands have extremely fragile environments and provide
numerous constraints for development such as the provision of community services including
police and fire protection.
Policy Statement
Development of estuarine system islands shall be permitted only if proper measures are taken by
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the developer to provide for sufficient hurricane evacuation, utilities provision, access on and off
the island, pollution control, and other design considerations that will ensure compatibility of
the development, with the estuarine systems. Other policies related to the growth and
development of Bird Island are included in the Areas that Sustain Remnant Species policy
statements (Section 6.3.2.2)
Im_alementation
The Town's zoning ordinance, CAMA major and minor permitting process. Bird Island and the
estuarine and spoil islands are classified as Conservation on the 1997 Land Classification Map.
6.3.10 Restriction of Development in Areas Susceptible to Sea Level Rise
Policy Identification
The Town will closely monitor research on sea level rise and its effects on coastal areas. There
has been considerable discussion and debate over the past decade or more about the influence of
sea level rise on the beach and shoreline erosion along the North Carolina's coast. The most
commonly held viewpoint is that gradual sea level rise is causing the barrier islands of the North
Carolina coast to migrate landward. Individual oceanfront owners experience this migration as
beach erosion. Generally, the Town supports a policy of regular beach renoursihment as the most
practical means of balancing the public's interest in the beach shoreline with the protection of
private property investments.
Policy .Statement
The Town of Sunset Beach will closely monitor research on sea level rise and its effects on
coastal areas It is the policy of the Town to consider ally State or Federal policies prior to
issuing specific statements regarding sea level rise and restriction of development in potentially
susceptible locations Specifically, development within areas rip to 5 feet above sea level may be
prone to sea level rise and wetland loss. The Town will respond to this issue through
implementation of Coastal Area Management regulations applicable to development within
Areas of Environmental Concern. The Town strongly supports beach renoursihment as the
appropriate means to minimize the impacts of beach erosion. In the absence of renoursshment,
the Town 's next policy of choice is for the relocation of threatened structures.
Implementation
CAMA Permitting Program
6.3.11 Upland Excavation for Marina Basins
Policy Identification
Upland excavation of marinas is a method of creating a marina basin within upland areas along
public waterways. Also refer to policy 6.3.7 concerning Marina and Floating Home
Development, Moorings, and Dry Stack Storage.
Policy Statement
Upland excavation for marina basins will not be allowed.
Implementation
Town Zoning Ordinance
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6.3.12 Installation of Bulkhead. Groins, and Seawalls
Policy Identification
The Town supports State standards for bulkheads and rip rap as identified in the State's general
permit for the construction of such structures in estuarine and Public Trust Areas. This has
always been the Town's intent. The Town recognizes that the revised bulkhead policy may
appear to be a change in policy, but the Town regards this revision merely to be a clarification.
The Town believes that State guidelines and regulations adequately protect the fragile coastal
ecosystem.
Policy Statement
Bulkhead installation, groins, or seawalls must be built in compliance with 7H and other state
guidelines. ' Maintenance and replacement of existing bulkheads will be permitted.
Implementation
CAMA major, general, and minor permitting process
6.3.13 Surface Water Quality Problems
Policy Identification
The majority of the Resource Protection Policies stated above, including but not limited to
policies concerning Areas of Environmental Concern and stormwater runoff, are designed to
curtail or halt further degradation of water quality of sound and beach waters. Moreover, the
proposed provision of wastewater treatment instead of the reliance upon septic tanks is regarded
as a means to protect water quality. The Town continually seeks to develop new management
practices and measures to implement -improvements in water quality.
Policy Statement
The Town of Sunset Beach shall continue to seek improved stormwater runoff and other
development standards which will protect and enhance the water quality of the estuarine system.
The Town will strive to provide wastewater treatment within its incorporated area as a means to
preserve its water quality.
Implementation
The Town supports the proposed stormwater management and regional sewer system of SBWSA
and will continue to enforce the Town's Stormwater Ordinance and the soil and erosion
provisions of the subdivision ordinance.
6.4 RESOURCE PRODUCTION AND MANAGEMENT
The resources within the Town's planning area play a vital role in the economy of the Town and
southeastern Brunswick County.. The Town's beaches and surrounding waters are utilized for
sunbathing, swimming, fishing and boating. Protection of these resources is a primary concern of
the Town. In many coastal counties and towns, "resource production and management" usually
relate to agriculture, forestry, and mining activities as well as recreational and fisheries resources.
For Sunset Beach, only recreational and fisheries resources pertain since there are no commercial
agricultural, forestry, or mining resources within the Planning Area.
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6.4.1 Productive Agriculture Lands Commercial Forest Lands Existing and Potential
Mineral Production Areas
Policy Identification
Within the Planning Area, there are no identified commercial forest lands, mineral production
areas, or productive agricultural areas with the exception of an occasional garden plots. A
considerable percentage of the mainland area is wooded, but is no longer in commercial
production.
Policy Statement
Mineral production and extraction activities of any kind shall not be permitted within the Sunset
Beach Planning Area.
Implementation
Town Zoning Ordinance
6.4.2 Commercial and Recreational Fisheries
Policy Identification
In resort communities such as Sunset Beach, the abundant water, beach, and marsh areas become
the predominant resource supporting recreational and fishing activities. The Town recognizes the
value of water quality maintenance in terms of protecting commercial and recreational fishing
resources and providing clean water for other recreational purposes such as swimming, water
skiing, and boating. Most of the marshes within Sunset Beach are designated as Primary Nursery
Areas by the North Carolina Division of Marine Fisheries. The water systems, beaches, and
marshes are also classified as Areas of Environmental Concern previously discussed. The
Calabash Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway are classified as SA waters while the Atlantic
Ocean is classified as SB. For these reasons, Sunset Beach recognizes that by protecting the
water quality within its jurisdiction that it is also protecting its economic base.
Policy .Statements
The Town of Sunset Beach encourages the protection and enhancement of North Carolina's sport
and commercial fisheries industry. Any development or activity which will profoundly affect
coastal and estuarine waters will be discouraged. Those structures which support commercial
and recreational fisheries will be allowed to be placed adjacent to coastal and estuarine waters.
In the design, construction, and operation of water dependent structures, efforts must be made to
mitigate negative effects on water quality and fish habitat, as determined by 15A NCAC 7H, the
Division of Environmental Management, and the Coastal Resources Commission. The developer
and/or owner will bear the cost of any such mitigation.
Sunset Beach supports the NC Division of Marine Fisheries in their development of regulations
and policies, including those on trawling netting in ocean and estuarine waters. The Town of
Sunset Beach encourages the State to prohibit gill -netting in all coastal waters year-round
In order to expand Sunset Beach's sport and commercial fishing, Sunset Beach will permit
private and public dredging activities which will positively affect those industries. It is
recognized that in dredging and stabilization activities, some fish habitat damage may occur.
Only those projects which have a reasonable likelihood of providing greater benefits than
damage for marine life will be supported All dredging and stabilization projects must be
performed in a manner which will do minimal damage to fish habitats.
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Sunset Beach supports projects which increase the productivity of coastal and estuarine waters
Projects such as oyster reseeding programs, dredging to increase tidal flushing in Jinks and
Blaine Creeks, and properly constructed artificial reef construction have proved successful in
the past, and therefore, will be supported in the future.
Policy Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach supports current State and'Federal programs designed to enhance the
proper utilization of water resources. The CAMA major and minor permitting program will be
enforced to protect these Areas of Environmental Concern. Establishment of a centralized sewer
system and effective stormwater management will improve and protect water quality in Sunset
Beach.
6.4.3 Off -Road Vehicles
Policy Identification
It is important to the Town of Sunset Beach that the aesthetics of the beach strand and the
stability of the sand dunes be maintained. The intrusion of off -road vehicles onto the strand and
dunes is inconsistent with these management objectives. In accordance with the Town's Traffic
Code, Sunset Beach does not allow vehicles in the shoreline area, with the notable exception of
public service or emergency vehicles. These provisions shall continue to be enforced.
Policy Statement
In accordance with its Traffic Code the Town of Sunset Beach does not allow off -road vehicles
on the dunes or on the shoreline area, with the exception of public service or emergency
vehicles.
Implementation
Town ordinances
6.4.4 Residential and Commercial Land Development Impacts on Any Natural
Resource
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach's waters and beaches are used for all types of recreation, including fishing for
pleasure. These water resources are vital to the community's "family vacation" oriented tourist
economy. The Town of Sunset Beach is committed to the protection and enhancement of its
waters and beaches. Residential land development is the predominant land use in the Sunset
Beach Planning Area with commercial land uses basically limited to retailing and services that
support tourism and the year-round population. This pattern is expected to continue throughout
the next ten-year planning period. Industrial land development is not appropriate for the planning
area and such development is prohibited by the zoning ordinance. The Town recognizes the
impact residential and commercial development has upon the natural resources and is taking steps
to minimize these impacts by installing a central wastewater collection and treatment system and
participating with SBWSA in developing a regional stormwater management plan. This same
philosophy continues with the provision of municipal services and the enforcement of ordinances
to allow development while simultaneously protecting those resources that are the reason for the
Town's existence.
Polic�Statement
The land use controls of Sunset Beach are and will continue to be written and enforced to insure
that proper and adequate measures are incorporated into the design, construction, and
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.operation of residential and commercial development so that any substantial negative impact to
the unique coastal ecosystem is minimized.
Implementation
Zoning and subdivision regulations, community facilities provision such as the wastewater system,
CAMA major and minor permitting processes.
6.5 ECONOMIC AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
6.5.1 Types of Development to Be Encouraged
Policy Identification
The Town of Sunset Beach has experienced rapid growth since the 1980's. Growth will continue
during the next five to 10 years as a result of new residential construction as well as the possible
extension of the town corporate and extraterritorial limits. During this planning process, there has
been much discussion about what type of growth should occur. The consensus of the public
meetings and the November 1996 survey was that Sunset Beach should remain a family -oriented
resort and retirement community with predominantly single-family residential development. The
prospect of high-rise development on either the island or the mainland is widely viewed as a threat
to the "small town" image of the Town. Proper management of growth is likewise a concern.
The Town of Sunset Beach recognizes that improperly managed growth can actually harm or
"destroy" the very appeal which attracts new residents and seasonal visitors to the area in the first
place. The Town's overall attitude toward "quality growth" is expressed in the following policy
statements.
Policy Statements
Sunset Beach believes in managing the Town's growth and development in balance with the
environment and the provision of municipal services. As far as location of various types of
development is concerned, Sunset Beach desires as much as practicable that all development be
designed and placed so as to be compatible with its "small town " and residential character. All
new development will adhere to the Town's building and development regulations and to the
density requirements set forth in the Zoning Ordinance.
To protect the community from adverse development and growth, the Town staff and policy
makers will consider these factors when reviewing development plans:
• The suitability of land to accommodate the use;
• The capacity of the environment;
• The compatibility of the land use with the goals and objectives of the Town;
• The density of the development and the proposed height of the structures;
• The capacity of community services in regard to the increasing demands imposed by
permanent and seasonal residents,
• The impact of the development upon Areas of Environmental Concern (AFC's) and
other special and sensitive areas, as reflected in the policies for Resource Protection
and Resource Production and Management; and,
• The location of hazardous areas where there is a tendency for septic tank problems,
flooding, and washover.
The Town of Sunset Beach will institute annexation proceedings and the extension of the
extraterritorial limits in a timely manner in order to guide growth in the surrounding areas
adjacent to Sunset Beach.
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The Town of Sunset Beach will periodically review the effectiveness of its land use regulations
and revise the ordinances as needed.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will administer its development ordinances such as zoning and
subdivision regulations with these above policies in mind. Improvements to the Town's
infrastructure will be done as needed in order to provide adequate services as demand from
population growth increases. As new development occurs in the areas surrounding the town
limits, Sunset Beach will evaluate the feasibility of annexation and the extension of the Town's
extraterritorial limits.
6.5.2 The Local Economy and Tourism
Policy Identification
The Town of Sunset Beach draws most of its livelihood from tourism, especially from summer
rentals, golfing, marine recreation, and fishing activities. The Town supports the continuation of
these activities.
Policy Statement
Sunset Beach will continue to support and promote tourism as its main economic base while
preserving the small town character of the community with quality growth which enhances its
appeal as a family resort and retirement community. The goal is to preserve and improve the
quality ofthenatural and manmade environment which has become the basis for our quality of
life at Sunset Beach which makes it so attractive for residents and visitors alike.
Implementation
Town Ordinances, CAMA Land Use Plan
6.5.3_ types of Urban -Growth -Patterns -Desired - -- --
Policy Identification
As it is very important that the atmosphere and character of a quiet, relaxing family beach be
maintained, Sunset Beach is not interested in promoting high-rise development or manufacturing
industries within its Planning Area. Also, intense commercial development, beyond that necessary
to serve year-round residents and tourists, will not be encouraged. Residential development is
considered desirable as long as there is no major or irreversible damage to environmentally
sensitive areas. It is the Town's intentions, as reflected in its zoning ordinance and zoning map, to
allow a mixture of residential development in a balanced manner throughout its Planning Area.
Pol Z Statement
The Town shall support a small town growth pattern which reinforces the community's existing
residential and commercial areas and protects the environment.
Implementation
Town Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances
6.5.4 ]:Xpes. Density. and Location of Anticipated Residential Development
Policy Identification
In keeping with the general vision statement for the Sunset Beach Planning Area, the Town will
implement land use controls which preserve its small town character and the quality of the natural
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and manmade environment.
Polia Statements
It shall be the policy of Sunset Beach to encourage the development of a variety of housing types
to meet the needs and desires of current and future citizens through the following.
• To maintain areas exclusively for conventional single-family dwellings for the growing
population on the island and the mainland,
• To retain the predominantly single-family residential character of the island. Conversion of
single-family homes to duplexes will be restricted to the residential lots bordering the beach
strand and the BB -I zoning district.
• To retain a 35 foot height limitation for residential, commercial, and institutional structures
on the island
• To allow multi family and condominium development within the golf course developments
and as permitted by zoning in the MB-1 and BB-1 commercial districts;
• To provide areas for mobile home and manufactured housing development on the mainland;
• " As specified by the current zoning ordinance, the building height on the mainland will
predominantly be 35 feet with the exception of a 50 foot building height maximum limit for
multi family units in the MR-3 zoning district. With the exception of the MR-3 zoning
district, there is a provision in the other mainland zoning districts that the building height
may be adjusted by 2 feet for every additional foot it is situated from the front and side
setback requirements.
The Planning Board and Town Council will study the feasibility of establishing a 50 foot
building height limitation on the mainland which may only be changed by a public referendum.
The Planning Board and Town Council will study the feasibility of establishing residential
density limitations per acre for each Zoning District and will determine the feasibility of revising
the subdivision and zoning ordinances to promote conservation of natural areas. Cluster
housing as permitted by the Planned Residential Development regulations will be studied
Implementation
Town Zoning and Subdivision Ordinances, Town Charter clause requiring a public referendum
prior to changing 35-foot building height limitations on the island. The Town Council will study
residential densities as permitted by its land use regulations and the feasibility of requiring that the
mainland building height restrictions be limited to 50 feet and may only be changed by the
approval of a public referendum. The Town will continue to enforce the State CAMA permit
process. The Town will also support the State Health regulations regarding septic tank placement
until such time that a central sewer system serves the entire Planning Area.
6.5.5 types of Commercial and Institutional Development Desired
Policy Identification
Using the suggested "per capita" ratio of 12.4 acres for every 1,000 seasonal and year-round
residents, it is estimated that the Sunset Beach Planning Area would need between 97.11 and
181.54 acres of commercial development in 1997 and between 146.58 and 225.71 acres in 2007.
As of 1997 there is already 336 acres of land zoned either BB-1 or MB-1 of which 310 acres are
vacant. Based on these criteria, Sunset Beaches has ample, if not excessive, land zoned for
commercial development.
Another major concern is the amount of road frontage along NC 179 and NC 904 currently zoned
for commercial development. The total road frontage from the Calabash Bridge on NC 179 to the
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United States Post Office on NC 904 measures approximately 10.4 miles along both sides of the
road. Currently, 4.7 miles or 45 percent of this mainland traffic corridor is zoned for commercial
use. This excessive amount of road frontage could result in excessive strip commercial
development on the mainland.
Commercial development and zoning on the island are now limited to parcels bordering Sunset
Boulevard. This compact commercial BB-1 zoning district should not be extended beyond its
current boundaries in order to protect the predominantly residential character of the island.
Policy Statements
The Town wishes to enhance and promote quality commercial development through the
following:
Sunset Beach's economic base consists mainly of services pertaining to tourism. Intense
commercial development beyond that necessary to serve tourists and the year-round
population will not be encouraged. There is sufficient land zoned for commercial
development to meet the projected needs of the seasonal and year-round population through
2007.
The Town will continue to enforce its current development ordinances and local building
permit process in order to achieve a desired balance between commercial and residential
development. Adequate buffering between residential and commercial development will be
required. Requests for additional commercial zoning will be carefully evaluated ill terms of
the needs of the community for such development.
• The Town will encourage commercial development to locate in designated commercial nodes
in order to avoid strip commercial development. The designated commercial node on the
island is the BB-1 district bordering Sunset Boulevard and on the mainland the major
commercial -node -is the _MB-Lcommercial district- at- the- NC-9 04- and NC-179- intersection
._-
• The rezoning of MB-1 tracts to the Mainland Professional Zoning District will be
encouraged. The Mainland Professional District will be limited to professional business
such as architects, accountants, doctors, lawyers, and engineers. The Mainland Professional
District could be more attractively landscaped, require fewer signs, and would be more
compatible with adjoining residential districts.
• The appearance of commercial development will be enhanced by the enforcement of stricter
sign and landscaping regulations.
• The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to support the efforts of the Sunset Beach
Beautification Committee, a civic group who landscapes and beautifies public areas within
the Town and the efforts of volunteers who pick-up litter on the beach and mainland
• With the exception of churches, institutional use in Sunset Beach is now limited to those
government and utility sites necessary to provide adequate services to the Town and its
Planning Area. This land use pattern will continue. The Town of Sunset Beach should
encourage land use compatibility between institutional development and neighboring
residential and/or commercial development.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to enforce its zoning, subdivision, sign, and landscaping
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ordinances.
6.5.6 Redevelopment of Developed Areas
Policy Identification
Given its rather recent development, the Town of Sunset Beach has no major consideration for
redevelopment. The major type of redevelopment which has occurred is the conversion of older
single-family beachfront homes into duplexes and the subsequent relocation of the older house to
an interior island lot. This conversion may only occur in the BR-1 zoning district which is limited
to the oceanfront side of Main Street. In order to retain its predominantly single-family character,
Sunset Beach will not allow duplexes to be a permitted use in other beach residential zones. As
the structures begin to age in Sunset Beach, additional redevelopment of residential and
commercial buildings may occur.
Policy .Statement
It is the policy of the Town to allow redevelopment of previously developed areas including the
relocation of endangered structures. Sunset Beach supports replacement of aging structures as
a positive reuse of land resources which enhances the Town as a whole. Such redevelopment
may be permitted as long as the activity complies with the spirit and intent of existing regulatory
requirements. It is the Town's policy that density allowances for redevelopment areas conform
to existing Town building and zoning regulations.
Implementation
Zoning ordinance and CAMA major and minor permitting processes, Proposed Residential
Density Study
6.5.7 Types and Location of Industries Desired
Policy Identification
The Town of Sunset Beach does not view industrial development as either desirable or compatible
with its character or the capacity of its community services. Industrial use is not now and probably
never will be a permitted use in the Zoning Ordinance. Moreover, land costs in this resort
community very likely preclude the possibility of industrial development.
Policy Statement
"Industry" in the traditional manufacturing/ processing/ production sense will not be allowed at
Sunset Beach.
Implementation
Town Zoning Ordinance by the exclusion of industrial development as a permitted use.
6.5.8 Local Commitment to Providing, Services to Development
Policy Identification
The Town's utilities extension policy as stated in the Water Ordinance is that each lot in all
subdivisions within the corporate limits will be provided at the subdivider's expense with an
extension of the water system. The Town will remain committed to providing other basic support
services to new areas as they develop, i.e., police and fire protection, building inspections and
municipal administration. Within the extraterritorial area, the Town's responsibility currently
consists of the enforcement of development and building codes. The County has installed a
distribution system making available water to those connecting to the system.
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The capacity of community facilities is discussed in Section 4.2. The Town of Sunset Beach
operates the water distribution system within the Town. The Brunswick County Water System
will have sufficient capacity to serve the projected peak seasonal population through 2007. Water
pressure problems on the island during the peak season will be corrected by installing an
additional 12-inch distribution line to the island. As of February 1998, the Town is applying for a
State Revolving Loan to pay for this water system improvement. The Towns of Sunset Beach
and Calabash and Brunswick County have formed the South Brunswick Water & Sewer
Authority. Currently, an Environmental Impact Statement is being prepared and must be
completed prior to the construction and operation of the proposed regional wastewater and
stormwater system. Until such time, residents of the Sunset Beach must rely upon septic systems
and the two package plants. Population growth of Sunset Beach is anticipated to have minor
impact upon school enrollment in Brunswick County. Improved bridge access to the island is
now the major transportation improvement needed to improve traffic flow, public safety, fire,
rescue, police, and evacuation services in Sunset Beach. The Town Council passed a resolution in
June 1996 stating support of the selection of a high-rise alternative and urging the NCDOT gives
its highest priority "to make a selection for a safe, dependable bridge" and "to remove this peril
(one -lane pontoon bridge) from our town." Sunset Beach will ensure that its private contractor
for solid waste collection has the capacity to handle the peak seasonal population through 2007.
The Town urges Brunswick County to develop an alternative landfill arrangement to replace its
existing landfill which is at capacity. Police protection, with perhaps some additiona1 manpower
and equipment, should be sufficient during this planning period. Fire protection services are now
managed and financed by the Town which will allow the Volunteer Fire Department to focus
upon improving fire protection services and eliminate the need for volunteer fund-raising
activities. The new Town Hall was opened in 1996 and now provides adequate space for town
administrative and police services.
The private contractors transport the Town's garbage to the Brunswick County landfill. As of
January 1, 1998, Brunswick County closed its 55-acre landfill because it did not have a protective
lining -as -required-by_federal_ law— Currently,the -County-landfill -site -is-functioning-as -the - major ---
transfer site for the off-loading of smaller garbage truck loads and reloading onto large haulers for
out of the county disposal. The County is now exploring its options on how best to melt its solid
waste disposal needs.
Policy Statements
As areas develop, it is the policy of the Town that the developer/owner share in the financial
responsibility of providing basic utility services such as water. Water pressure problems on the
island during the peak season will be corrected by the installation of a new 12-inch water line to
the island Property owners will be required to connect to the centralized sewer system once
services become available.
In order to protect the quality of its coastal waters, the Town of Sunset Beach will pursue
developing a centralized sewerage treatment and collection system with the South Brunswick
Water and Sewer Authority.
In order to protect its coastal waters, the Town of Sunset Beach will enforce its stormwater
management ordinance and will support the development of a regional stormwater management
system with SBWSA.
To promote public safety, the Town of Sunset Beach supports improved bridge access to the
island by the construction of the NCDOT preferred alternative of a high-rise bridge. As stated
in resolutions passed on October 11, 1982 and June 4,1996, the Town Council of Sunset Beach
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101
supports the efforts of the North Carolina Department of Transportation to provide better access
to the island by the construction of a high rise bridge and "urgently requests that this project be
given the highest priority to remove this peril (the one -lane pontoon bridge) from our town."
The Town of Sunset Beach in cooperation with the Volunteer Fire Department will implement
measures to improve the Town's fire insurance rating which will reduce fire insurance premiums
for property owners.
The Town will continue to provide at least weekly domestic garbage collection by contracting
with private companies. The Town urges Brunswick County to develop a cost-efficient solid
waste disposal system which meets the needs of local and county governments and is designed so
as not to adversely impact significant natural or manmade resources
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will continually evaluate its provision of services to determine
whether there is sufficient capacity. As undeveloped areas of the Planning Area are developed, it
is the policy of the Town that the developer/owner share in the financial responsibility of
providing town services. The Town of Sunset Beach will apply to the State Revolving Loan Fund
to pay for the installation of a new 12-inch line to the island. The Town of sunset Beach will
support Brunswick County's efforts to develop a cost-efficient solid waste disposal system which
meets the needs of local governments,
6.5.9 Coastal and Estuarine Beach Access and Parkin
Policy Identification
Relatively free and open access to the ocean front and other waterways is an important
consideration for Sunset Beach as recognized since its initial stages of its development. The
beach accesses were dedicated to the Town as a gift from the original developer, Manon C. Gore.
As of 1997, public beach and water access consisted of the following: 33 dedicated beach
accesses which have crosswalks and are located at the end of most island streets; 10 dedicated but
unmarked easements providing public access to the estuarine waters; 283 public parking spaces
on the island which are used by beach day visitors; one private ocean fishing pier on the island
which also has a parking lot; and the Sea Trail Plantation has a beach parking lot on the island and
a boat launching ramp on the mainland.
There is strong support for the Town of Sunset Beach to provide public beach restrooms, public
boat accesses, and better access and parking for the Intracoastal Waterway. The Town of Sunset
Beach has and is continuing to study the feasibility of building and maintaining a public restroom
on the island. The ability to acquire a suitable site at a reasonable cost, the lack of a centralized
sewer system, and probable maintenance costs are major constraints. The Town of Sunset Beach
would like for the NC Division of Wildlife and Fisheries to build a boat ramp and parking facility
at suitable location in conjunction with the construction of the replacement bridge.
Policv Statement
The Town of Sunset Beach is committed to the public having access to the beach, shore or other
public trust land and waters, provided that such means do not conflict with the rights of residents
for the use and enjoyment of their property. Sunset Beach supports the utilization of state and
federal, as well as local resources, to develop additional access areas
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Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will continue to study the feasibility of providing a public restroom on
the island to accommodate the needs of beach visitors. Once bridge improvements are finalized,
the Town of Sunset Beach proposes that a public boat ramp and parking be provided in order to
promote better access to the Intracoastal Waterway.
6.5.10 Bicycle Traffic Improvements
Policy Identification
Provision of bicycle traffic improvements is an important consideration for Sunset Beach for
numerous reasons. First of all, bicycle traffic improvements such as wide -paved shoulders
promote bicycling and enhance bicycle safety. Local visitors and residents would be more likely
to utilize bicycles, rather than their automobiles, if a safe place to ride their bicycles is provided.
Increased utilization of bicycles would help to alleviate traffic congestion as well as reduce the
need for vehicular parking. Parking is now at a premium throughout the Town, especially the
heavily congested beach access areas during the peak season. It is far more economical and
efficient to provide bicycle storage facilities, rather than vehicular parking.
Three other benefits need to be considered. Bicycling is an excellent form of recreation which has
many enthusiasts in beach communities. Provision of bicycle improvements helps to support the
local tourist economy as evident by the former MS Bike-A-thon, a bicycle race between Charlotte
and Sunset Beach which was held for several years. Promotion of non -motorized forms of
transportation such as bicycling is also an excellent means to protect the environment, to reduce
air and water pollution, and to conserve valuable energy resources.
Policy .Statement
The Town of Sunset Beach supports the provision of bicycle improvements along NC 179 and SR
1172 in order to promote bicycling as an alternative means of transportation, improve bicycle 0
safety, reduce the demand jor vehicular_ parking,_promote-recreational-activities,-support-the- -- -
1oca1 tourist -economy, protect the environment, and conserve energy resources. Moreover, the
Town of Sunset Beach supports the development of a regional bicycle route system throughout
Brunswick County and adjoining municipalities.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach will recommend the provision of bicycle improvements during the
public input process of the North Carolina Transportation Improvement Program as well as study
the feasibility of applying for other federal and state grants.
6.5.11 Commitment to State and Federal Programs
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach is generally receptive to State and Federal programs, particularly those which either
enhance or improve the Town's facilities. Examples of State and Federal programs which are
important to and supported by the Town include: CAMA major and minor permitting program;
dredging, channel maintenance, beach renourishment, and 404 wetlands permitting by the U.S.
Army Corps of Engineers; the DEHNR Coastal and Estuarine Water Beach Access Program; the
North Carolina Clean Water Management Trust Fund which was established to help communities
fight water pollution; and Federal and State projects which provide efficient and safe boat access
for sports fishing.
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101

Policy .Statement
It is a policy of the Town to support State and federal programs such as LAMA, CBRA, beach
renourishment, erosion control, public access, highway improvements, the North Carolina Clean
Water Management Trust Fund, dredging, etc. provided the Town finds these programs to be
appropriate and consistent with Town policies.
Implementation
Town administrative activities.
6.5.12 Assistance to Channel Maintenance and Beach Renourishment Projects
Policy Identification
Proper maintenance of channels, particularly the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, is very important
to Sunset Beach because of the impact of commercial and recreational fisheries and general
boating. Sunset Beach is supportive of the Corps of Engineers maintenance of the Intracoastal
Waterway. Although erosion has not been a major problem at Sunset Beach, beach nourishment
is still an important concern. Sunset Beach is supportive of beach nourishment and dune
stabilization projects in the area and if necessary, will seek State and Federal assistance. The
Town maintains one continuous dune line and stabilizes the dune line by installing sand fencing,, by
placement of Christmas trees, and by planting and fertilizing of American beach grass.
Policy Statement
The Town supports State and Federal channel and inlet maintenance projects and beach
renourishment program. All dredging, stabilization operations, and beach renourishment
projects must be preformed so as to minimize any damage to fish and wildlife habitat and will
occur outside of the nesting and breeding season. Storm fencing must be built placed in a
fashion as not to impede nesting by Loggerhead turtles.
Policy Implementation
The Town will seek federal and State assistance in support of beach nourishment projects and will
c6ntinue to maintain the dune line by planting beach grass and installing sand fencing. The Town
supports the Army Corps of Engineers channel maintenance of the Intracoastal Waterway.
6.5.13 Energy Facility Siting and Develo ment
Policy Identification
The Sunset Beach planning area is not a suitable location for electric generating plants.
Policy .Statement
The Sunset Beach planning area is not a suitable location for electric generating plants. The
Town of sunset Beach discourages offshore continental drilling for gas and oil. Moreover, the
location of support facilities for offshore drilling at Sunset Beach would be inappropriate and
strongly discouraged
Implementation
Town Administrative Activities, Town Zoning Ordinance
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6.6 CONTINUING PUBLIC PARTICIPATION POLICIES
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach recognizes that an important element in developing and implementing any local
policies or plans is the involvement of its citizens. Public involvement with this CAMA Land Use
Plan Update started in October 1996 as the planning process began. Monthly meetings with the
Sunset Beach Planning Board composed of seven members were held. All property owners were
informed about the CAMA Land Use Planning process through the quarterly Town newsletter
which is mailed to approximately 2,700 property owners. The quarterly newsletter announced the
public meetings and public hearing as well as advised that the draft planning documents, policies,
and survey results were available by request. The public meetings, the August 14 joint workshop,
and the public hearing were also advertised in the local newspaper the Brunswick Beacon. The
March 27 public meeting was announced on water billings. Signs advertising the public meetings
and hearing were also posted in key locations throughout the Town.
As part of the process of updating its 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan, the Town of Sunset Beach
surveyed its town property owners and ETA residents. The November 1996 issue of the Town
quarterly newsletter contained a two -page comment form. This newsletter was mailed to 2,700
town property owners. In addition, 200 forms were mailed to residents of the extraterritorial area
(ETA) thus a total of 2,900 survey forms were distributed. The town seal was embossed on the
comment forms to insure authenticity. Four forms were received which did not have the town
seal and these forms were excluded from tabulation. A summary of the survey results is included
in Section 9.0. and the 39-page survey report is available from the Town Hall.
A total of 994 surveys was returned of which 951 were from town property owners and 43 were
from ETA residents. Nearly 34 percent of all survey forms were returned which is an excellent
response rate. The Town of Sunset Beach Planning Board tabulated the survey forms and Hayes
& Associates compiled all the open-ended questions and additional comments. A concerted effort
was made to include all comment _s_and concerns_as noted. The_objective_of_this- public- survey was
give property owners the opportunity to express their opinions. This has been achieved by
using both open-ended and closed -ended questions. It should also be noted -that this survey is not
a random, "scientific" instrument, but actually a comment form soliciting opinions. The responses
are simply "snapshots" of how the respondents regard Sunset Beach as of the time they
responded. However, given the extensive amount of comments, one may consider this effort to.
be an open letter to the Sunset Beach policy makers on how its residents and property owners
would like for this community to develop. Overall, the need for quality, controlled growth is the
major theme expressed throughout the survey. Many respondents appreciated how Sunset Beach
has developed thus far, but are afraid that this community is approaching a threshold for growth
and that future accelerated growth may result in a decline in the area's character and quality of life
which attracted them to this town initially.
Approximately 50 people attended the March 27 meeting. The documentary "Living on the
Edge" was shown at 5:30 P.M. At the public meeting, Hayes & Associates presented the survey
findings and highlighted the status of Sunset Beach today and growth trends for the next ten
years. The major objective of the meeting was to develop a vision statement for the Sunset
Beach.
The July 28 public meeting was attended by 33 participants. The June newsletter announced the
public meeting and stated that copies of the draft policies were available by request from the
Town Hall. At this meeting, the planning consultant presented the draft Executive Summary, the
major policy statements, and the land classification system. Comments were received at the
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meeting. It was also announced that additional written comments regarding the Draft Land Use
Plan would be considered at the August 14 Joint Planning Workshop of the Sunset Beach
Planning Board and Town Council. All the public meeting comments and written comments
received prior to the workshop were considered during the workshop. The draft was revised and
the public was notified by the Town newsletter and two newspaper advertisements that the
preliminary plan was available for review at the Town Hall. A public hearing concerning the
preliminary draft plan was held on October 6, 1997 prior to the submission of the update for the
review by the Division of Coastal Management.
Policy .Statement
Sunset Beach believes that its Town Council and Planning Board which have regularly
scheduled meetings which are open to the public, provides opportunities for citizens to air their
views and concerns about planning matters.
Implementation
The Town will continue to use published public notices in the local newspaper to inform citizens
of pending decisions involving land use planning matters in order to provide opportunities for
input.
6.7 SUNSET BEACH STORM HAZARD MITIGATION, POST -DISASTER
RECOVERY, AND EVACUATION PLAN
Sunset Beach's Storm Hazard Mitigation, Evacuation, and Post -Disaster Recovery Plan is integral
with and incorporated in the Brunswick County Storm Hazard Mitigation, Evacuation, and Post -
Disaster Plan. The Town of Sunset Beach does have a Hurricane Evacuation Plan and a revised
1996 Emergency Management Plan which are on file at the Town Hall.
The island portion of the Town is susceptible to significant damage from a hurricane or a storm of
similar magnitude. All of the island development is located in areas that would be flooded by a
100-year storm as shown on Map 4, Flood Hazard Areas, which is attached. The entire Town is
subject to wind damage which accompanies storms of any magnitude.
6.7.1 Storm Hazard Mitigation
Policy Identification
Certain areas within Sunset Beach lie within the hazard areas identified in the 1987 report Before
the Storm which defined ways to manage development to reduce hurricane damage for the State
of North Carolina. The hazard areas at Sunset Beach are identified as the following Areas of
Environmental Concern: Inlet Hazard Areas, the Ocean Erodible Areas, the Estuarine Shoreline
AFC's, and the Flood Hazard AEC's. With the exception of the Estuarine Shoreline AEC located
along the Calabash River, these hazard areas coincide with the V-zones identified on the National
Flood Insurance Rate Maps which are generally shown on Map 4 which is attached. These hazard
areas are subject to a number of local, state, and federal standards which limit the placement or
replacement of built structures. There are several mobile homes located in the V-zone on the
mainland.
Policy Statements
Sunset Beach's mitigation policies meet the requirements for hazard mitigation planning as
outlined in Before the Storm. The policies consist of a combination of accompanying Land Use
Plan policies and regulations established by the Town's land development ordinances In order
to minimize the effects of a hurricane or other major storm, Sunset Beach endorses the
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following.
High Winds
Sunset Beach supports enforcement of the NC State Building Code. The Town will continue to
enforce the State Building Code on wind resistant construction with design standards of from
120 to 150 mph wind loads.
Flooding and Storm Surge
Sunset Beach is an active participant in the National Flood Insurance Program and is
supportive of hazard mitigation elements. Sunset Beach is participating in the regular phase of
the insurance program and enforces a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance. Sunset Beach also
supports continued enforcement of the CAMA and 404 wetlands development permit processes in
areas potentially susceptible to flooding.
Wave Action and Shoreline Erosion
Sunset Beach is supportive of the CAMA development permit process for estuarine shoreline
areas and the requisite development standards which encourage both shoreline stabilization and
facilitation of proper drainage.
Development in Hazardous Areas
The Town of Sunset Beach shall continue to discourage high -intensity uses and large structures
from being constructed within the 100 year floodplain, erosion prone areas, and other locations
susceptible to hurricane andflooding looding hazards.
Public Acquisition of Hazardous Areas
The Town of Sunset Beach shall consider purchasing parcels located in hazard areas or
rendered unbuddable by storms or other events, for the purpose of public water access and
conservation of open space
Reduction of Yard Debris
The Town of Sunset Beach shall consider enacting regulations 'requiring property owners to
remove yard debris and other loose materials which during a hurricane could create damage to
surrounding properties.
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach enforces these stated policies through its zoning ordinance, the Flood
Ordinance, North Carolina Building Code, and the CAMA minor development permit process.
Through these policies and equipped with these tools for enforcement, Sunset Beach is dedicated
to the mitigation of future storm damage by requiring:
• All new development must meet as a minimum the provisions of the North Carolina Building
Code.
• The Town's zoning ordinances set out requirements for low density residential development
by setting standards for lot sizes, building heights, and building setbacks. The proposed
sewage treatment system is likewise being designed for low -density development.
• The Town's policies are in support of and consistent with State policies and regulations for
development in Areas of Environmental Concern.
• The Town's flood plain development policies conform with all Federal and State requirements
and are enforced by the Town Administrator and/ or zoning officer.
MEMO,

Me
• The Sunset Beach Zoning Ordinance does not permit mobile homes on the island. Most of
the mobile homes in the extraterritorial area are located outside the 100-year floodplain, and
all are tied down and blocked to meet North Carolina design -wind requirements for this area.
6.7.2 Evacuation
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach participates in a regional evacuation planning process administered by the
Brunswick County Office of Emergency Management. Adequate shelter for evacuees is present
on the mainland at designated shelters. Total evacuation to mainland shelters is the safest
procedure for Sunset Beach to follow when a significant storm is imminent. Sunset Beach does
not have a warning system, therefore, notice to evacuate is given by the Sunset Beach Police
Department.
Policy Statement
Sunset Beach will provide for an orderly and timely evacuation of town residents and visitors
during a declared emergency by following established procedures set forth by the Sunset Beach
Evacuation Plan and by the Brunswick County Emergency Management Agency.
Implementation
Town officials and many town residents contend that the one -lane drawbridge may be a major
obstacle for the safe evacuation of the island. Town officials continue to support the efforts of the
NC Department of Transportation to provide better and more reliable bridge access to the island.
Town officials will implement the Sunset Beach and County Evacuation Plans if an evacuation is
ordered during a Hurricane Warning. Town officials recognize that evacuation time is dependent
upon -the number of visitors and residents on the island and the mainland. The lead time for an
evacuation will be greater if a hurricane occurs during a peak period.
6.7.3 Post Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction Policies
Policy Identification
Sunset Beach's Hurricane Evacuation Plan states the Town's recovery and reconstruction policies.
This plan identifies three distinct reconstruction periods: Emergency, Restoration, and
Replacement. This plan outlines the sequence of procedures to be followed to meet State and
Federal Disaster Relief regulations including the organization of a Damage Assessment Team,
criteria for assessing the damage, and the organization of recovery operations. The
reconstruction policies outline the procedures for allowing residents to return to their properties,
the issuance of building permits, and the restoration of public facilities.
Statements
After a hurricane strikes, a Command Team consisting of the Mayor of Sunset Beach, the Town
Administrator, the Police Chief, and the Town Building Inspector will be responsible for
overseeing the reconstruction process and any policy issues which may arise after a storm
disaster.
Generally, reconstruction shall be held at least to the same development standards as before the
storm in accord with the NC Building Code, the Sunset Beach Zoning Ordinance and Flood
Plain Management Regulations, and CAMA regulations and setback requirements However,
destroyed structures which did not conform to these development regulations must be
redeveloped according to those policies In some instances, this may mean relocation of
construction or no reconstruction at all. For example, any mobile homes now located in the V-
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zone and which are significantly damaged by a storm will not be permitted to relocate within the
V-zone. 0
Because of the density of development at Sunset Beach and the possible extensive damage
caused by a major storm, it may be necessary for the Town to suspend all redevelopment
activities for a certain period of time after a storm. This "moratorium" could allow the Town
time to carefully assess all damage in view of existing policies, building regulations, and
ordinances in order to help determine whether existing policies should be revised to mitigate
similar damage from future storms. The intent of such a moratorium would be to learn all the
lessons possible and try to determine what steps and precautions the Town can take to rebuilding
so as not to suffer damage to the same extent. If a moratorium is established, the time frame will
be commensurate with the extent of the damage. The actual time frame will be determined by the
Town Council.
In the event of extensive hurricane damage to public utilities requiring replacement or relocation
of these utilities, efforts shall be made to locate damaged utilities away from hurricane hazard
areas or to strengthen their construction.
Priority shall be given to the repair of public utilities which will restore service to as many
persons as soon as possible.
The Town_ Council may request that a new assessment of hazard areas be performed, depending
upon the extent of flooding and the changes :to shoreline. and inlets caused by the hurricane.
Public expenditure of fiords for the repair or reconstruction of any private road or vehicular
easement which is damaged or destroyed as a result of an intense storm event shall not occur,
except in the conjunction with the repair of town utilities All other private roads will be the
responsibility of the individual property owners. 0
Implementation
The Town of Sunset Beach shall closely monitor: all construction efforts involving both public and
private utilities, including roads, to provide for less vulnerable redevelopment after a storm. After
a major storm, reconstruction and/or relocation of structures must be consistent with the NC
Building Code, the Sunset Beach Zoning and Flood Plain Management regulations, and CAMA
regulations and setback requirements.
The Town of Sunset Beach shall continue to maintain present plans for evacuation, recovery, and
reconstruction as well as support planning efforts by the Brunswick County Emergency Services
Agency.
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7.0 LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
7.1 PURPOSE OF LAND CLASSIFICATION
The land classification system provides a uniform way of looking at how the use of land interacts
with environmentally sensitive areas and with the development needs of a particular locality. It is
not a strict regulatory device in the sense of a zoning ordinance or a zoning map. It represents
more of a tool to aid in the understanding the relationships between various land use categories
and how these relationships shape local policy. Particular attention is focused on the intensity at
which land is used and the level of services needed to support that intensity. The regulations for
the Coastal Area Management Act state:
"The land classification system provides a framework to be used by
local government .to identify the future use of all lands. The
designation of land classes allows the local government to illustrate
their policy statements as to where and to what density they want
growth to occur, and where they want to conserve natural and
cultural resources by guiding growth." (15A NCAC 7B.0204) (b)
"By delineating land classes on a map, local government and its
citizens can specify where certain policies (local, state, and federal)
will apply. The land classification system is intended to be
supported by zoning, subdivision and other local growth
management tools and these local tools should be consistent with
the classification system as much as possible. Although specific
areas are outlined on' a land classification map, it must be
(� remembered that land classification is merely a tool to help
implement policies and not in the strict sense of the term a
regulatory mechanism." (15A NCAC 7B.204) (a)
The seven alternative land classifications authorized by 7B.204 (c), along with the Land
Classification Map, are therefore intended to serve as a visual representation of the policies stated
in Section 6.0 of this plan. The map depicting these classifications must be as flexible as the
policies that guide them. In addition to the descriptions below, the classifications are graphically
shown on Map 4 the Land Classification Map for the Town of Sunset Beach Planning Area.
7.2 LAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Only three of the Coastal Resources Commission's seven types of land classifications are relevant
to Sunset Beach. The developed, urban transitional, and conservation classes are further
identified and described below. In addition, the Town of Sunset Beach has devised a conservation
spoil subclassification in order to control spoil sites within the Town's jurisdiction.
7.2.1 Develop
According to the CAMA planning regulations, the developed class of land provides for continued
intensive development and redevelopment of existing cities, towns, and their urban environs.
Areas meeting the intent of the developed classification are currently urban in character where
minimal undeveloped land remains, or are scheduled for the timely provision of public services
such as water, sewer, streets and roads, police and fire protection. Urban in character includes
mixed land uses such as residential, commercial, institutional, and other uses. (7B.0204) (d) (1)
7 1

Within Sunset Beach, the areas complying with the above definition include the existing
residential and commercial areas on the island and the mainland, including those developed
portions of the extraterritorial area. Lots in these areas, especially the island, are nearly
completely developed, and the undeveloped acreage could be developed by or before the year
2007.
7.2.2 Urban Transition
According to the CAMA planning regulations, the purpose of the urban transition class is to
provide for future intensive urban development on lands that are suitable and that will be provided
with the necessary urban services to support urban development. Areas meeting the intent of the
urban transition classification are presently being developed for urban purposes or will be
developed in the next five to ten years. These areas are in, or will be in an urban "transition" state
of development going from lower intensity uses to higher intensity uses and as such will require
urban services. Examples of areas meeting this class are lands included within the municipal
extraterritorial planning boundaries and areas being considered for annexation. This classification
should not be applied to any Areas of Environmental Concern, lands of special value such as those
containing archaeological sites or wildlife habitats, or areas subject to frequent flooding.
(7B.0204) (d) (2)
The lands in Sunset Beach which are classified as urban transitional are those vacant land areas
adjacent to currently developed areas on the island and the mainland, including the extraterritorial
area. This includes some areas where lots have been platted as well as some vacant tracts on the
mainland.
The relationship between the "developed" and "urban transition" classification is an important one
to understand. The first class is meant to define the already intensively developed areas and/or
those areas where intensive development urban -type development is likely to occur. Urban
transitional lands are those where_ public_inv_estment_decisions will_be_required to_provide-the
necessary urban services. These become important areas to monitor.
The Coastal Resources Commission has further clarified this relationship. The Developed and
Urban Transition classes should be the only lands under active consideration by a local
government for intensive urban development requiring urban services. The area within these
classes is where detailed local land use and public investment planning will occur. State and
federal expenditures on projects associated with urban development such as water, sewer, and
urban street systems will be guided only to these areas. Most of the urban transition lands of
Sunset Beach, including those in the extraterritorial area, already have access to the Towns water
distribution system and fire protection system. Other urban services such as police protection and
solid waste collection are only available to those areas within the corporate limits.
The development of primarily single-family structures and golf course development is likely to
continue in Sunset Beach and its extraterritorial areas. The developed and urban transition classes
were specifically designed to accommodate these more intensive developments and land uses.
This may include commercial, community facilities, and transportation facilities. Hazardous or
offensive uses such as power plants, industries, airports, and storage facilities will not be included
in these classes. Where identified constraints such as poor soils, AIWW easements, or other
fragile areas occur within these classes, the areas will not be considered as Developed or Urban
Transition.
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7.2.3 Conservation
The purpose of the Conservation class is to provide for the effective long-term management and
protection of significant, limited or irreplaceable areas. Management is needed due to the natural,
cultural, recreational, scenic or natural productive values of both local and more than local
concern.
Areas meeting the intent of this classification include: AEC's, including but not limited to public
trust waters, estuarine waters, coastal wetlands, etc. Also included are other similar lands,
environmentally significant because of their natural role in the integrity of the coastal region.
a. Coastal Wetlands - These areas are the most restrictive of all AEC's and very few uses are
permitted therein; the highest priority is for their preservation as they are well documented in their
contribution to the natural productivity of the coastal area.
b. Ocean Hazard AECs - These areas include V zones and ocean erodible area and are known for
their vulnerability to storms. Some limited uses are permitted within, even though subject to
storm risks. Some development is permitted in these areas if it is well managed and carefully sited
to minimize risks to life and property.
c. Estuarine Shoreline AECs - These areas are located adjacent to estuarine waters AECs and are
known for contribution to the natural productivity of the waters close by. Many uses may be
permitted as long as the 30 percent impervious rule is met and development is well managed on
individual sites to ensure minimal degradation.
d. Other similar lands that are afforded some protection by another agency, such as "404
wetlands," Bird Island which is designated as a CBRA area, and areas that contain remnant
species such as Twin Lakes where use and performance standards of that agency will apply.
e. Other unique lands that may not be afforded protection by another agency, but are known for
their natural, scenic, historical, cultural or hazardous nature.
In most cases limited on site services will adequately support any limited development within this
class and will also protect the very features which justify the area's inclusion in the conservation
classification. It should be understood that even though AEC standards occasionally permit urban
type development on a lot by lot basis within the various AEC's and that services are occasionally
provided, this is the exception rather than the rule, and the primary intent of the conservation class
is to provide protection for the resources included therein.
Within Sunset Beach, this classification is applied to all estuarine shorelines, estuarine water areas,
and coastal wetlands, generally flanking the Intracoastal Waterway.
Bird Island is included in the Conservation class because this island contains numerous AEC's and
has regional natural significance as cited by the North Carolina Heritage Program. Preservation
of Bird Island through acquisition by the State or by a nonprofit organization is the ultimate
objective of the Town and most of the residents. However, if public acquisition does not occur,
sections of Bird Island may meet the AEC lot -by -lot criteria for development. Such development
will be regulated by the Conservation Reserve zoning restrictions which will require that the
significant natural features of the island will not be disturbed and that only low -density residential
development will be allowed on upland areas. Provision of public utility services such as water
and sewer improvements will not be extended to Bird Island. Moreover, Bird Island does not
7-3

meet the criteria for Federal Flood Insurance as mandated by the Coastal Barrier Resources Act
(CBRA) because it is an undeveloped coastal barrier island.
7.2.4 Conservation Spoil
This is a subclass of conservation and will be used to classify lands which would generally be
suited for use as spoil areas for the maintenance of major waterways, but not for other uses. This
would include areas used, or to be used, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
0
7 -- 4

8.0 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION AND IMPLEMENTATION
e e jurisdiction f both Bru Brunswick
The Sunset Beach Planning Area adjoins land under the o ns ck County and
the Town of Calabash. The Sunset Beach Land Classification Map interfaces with the Brunswick
County Land Classification Map (1992 Update) along Sunset Beach's eastern and northern
boundaries, generally east of NC 904 and north of Georgetown Road (SR 1163) . The County's map
indicated "Urban Transition" for most of this contiguous area along Georgetown Road and NC 904.
A small area of "Limited Transition" Classification adjoins the eastern portion of the extraterritorial
area along Seaside Road (SR 1162.) The "Urban Transition" class provides for future intensive urban
development on lands that are suitable. This is the area of the County where thousands of individually
owned lots are in the process of development, and where new development is occurring. These areas
exhibit a variety of land uses, from low -density residential to commercial and very small industrial
activities." The purpose of this "Limited Transition" classification is to provide for development in
areas having some public services, but are suitable for lower densities. Areas in this class will
experience increased development during the planning period, necessitating some municipal type
services. These two classifications are considered compatible with the Sunset Beach Planning Area
Land Classification System (Section 7.0 and Map 4).
The Sunset Beach Land Classification Map interfaces with the Town of Calabash Land Classification
Map ( 1994 Update ) along Sunset Beach's western boundary, generally west of NC 179 near the
Ocean Harbour Golf Course and the Calabash River. The Ocean Harbour Golf Course is classified
as "Urban Transition" whereas the adjoining older subdivisions are classified as "Developed" and the
marshes along the Calabash River are classified as "Conservation." These three classifications are
considered compatible with the Sunset Beach Planning Area Land Classification System (Section 7.0
and Map 4)
The Town shares a number of concerns and common issues with Brunswick County and neighboring
Towns. Some of these issues and concerns are discussed below.
Water Distribution - Sunset Beach, like many other smaller communities in Brunswick
County, is a part of the Brunswick County Water System.
South Brunswick Water and Sewer Authority: The Town of Sunset Beach, the Town of
Calabash, and Brunswick County formed a regional sewer and stormwater management
authority which was incorporated on January 27, 1993. The goal of this regional authority
is, "To restore and preserve the estuarine quality and natural ecological functions of the
estuarine waters of the South Brunswick Area." The Authority plans to implement this goal
by operating an environmentally sound, cost-effective comprehensive wastewater and
stormwater management program. SBWSA is now preparing an Environmental Impact
Statement and developing a Storm Water Quality Management Program (SWQMP.)
Emerged Medical Services - Sunset Beach is served by the Brunswick County, Calabash,
and Shallotte Emergency Medical Services and the First Responder Unit of the Sunset Beach
8-1

Volunteer Fire Departments. The Brunswick County Emergency Medical Service is planning
to construct an EMS Station on Georgetown Road which will serve Southwestern Brunswick
County.
Transportation: The most significant feature of North Carolina's Transportation
Improvement Program (TIP) pertaining to Sunset Beach is the proposed replacement bridge
across the Intracoastal Waterway. The construction of the replacement bridge has been
delayed until a court -ordered Environmental Impact Statement is completed in 1997. The
widening of NC 904 from NC 179 to SR 1163 (Georgetown Road) to three lanes and the
widening of NC 179 from SR 1163 (Georgetown Road) to US 17 are other road
improvements included in the NC 1997-2003 TIP. The completion of the Georgetown Road
extension from SR 1184 to NC 179 will provide an important alternate route between
Shallotte and the Sunset Beach Planning Area. The 1988 Brunswick County Thoroughfare
Plan included transportation improvements for Sunset Beach. The Town will participate with
the revision of Brunswick County Thoroughfare Plan.
Emergency Evacuation: The Town has endorsed the Brunswick County Evacuation Plan
and has prepared its own local Emergency Response Plan.
Mutual Aid Agreements - The Town Police Department has mutual aid agreements with the
County Sheriffs Department and the Shallotte, Long Beach, and Ocean Isle Beach Police
Departments. The Sunset Beach Volunteer Fire Department has mutual aid agreements with
the Calabash and Ocean Isle Volunteer Fire Departments as well as with Brunswick County
and Horry County, SC.
• Extraterritorial Jurisdiction: - The Town of Sunset Beach must have the approval of
Brunswick County prior to the extension of its extraterritorial area.
• 911 System: - The Town participated in the street naming and house numbering system
associated with the County's 911 system for fire protection, law enforcement, emergency
rescue and medical services.
• Septic Tank Permitting*. The Town issues building permits and certificates of occupancy in
the Town and ETA in conjunction with the County's septic tank permitting process.
• Brunswick County Landfill: The Town of Sunset Beach utilizes the County landfill and
urges the County to find a suitable replacement to the county landfill which is nearing
capacity.
8 -2_
K

9.0 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN AND SURVEY RESULTS
0 TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH, N.C. 1997 LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION PLAN
Subchapter 7B of the N.C. Administration Code, CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines, requires
that the plan update process be conducted in the public arena. It is, therefore, the responsibility of
the local government to involve, inform, and educate a broad cross-section of the population.
There should be a continuous structure in place which both reaches out and invites diversified
segments of the community to participate within its jurisdictional boundaries.
The Town of Sunset Beach is aware of this responsibility and will seek to carry out this obligation
throughout the updating of its 1997 Land Use Plan. The following steps will be taken in order to
provide information to the public and to maintain citizen involvement throughout the process:
1. Designation of Principal Local Board and Planner -in -Char
Ms. Margaret H. Hayes of the firm Hayes & Associates will serve as the Planner -in -Charge and will
supervise the project. Ms. Linda Fluegel, the Town Administrator, will serve as the preliminary
contact between the Town of Sunset Beach and the Planning Consultant. The Sunset Beach
Planning Board will be the principal local board directing the 1997 Land Use Plan Update with the
Mayor and Town Council being involved.
2. Meetines and Public Hearin
Included as part of this plan is a schedule of events to inform and receive input from the citizens as
well as from Town officials. The schedule includes two (2) public meetings, one (1) public hearing,
and a survey of all town property owners and selected households located in the extraterritorial
jurisdiction. The Town quarterly newsletter which is mailed to all property owners will feature
articles about the CAMA Land Use Planning process. The November issue will contain an
questionnaire for property owners to state their concerns and vision for the Town of Sunset Beach.
The March 1997 Public Meeting will present an explanation of the CAMA Land Use Planning
Process, a summary of the November property owner survey, and identification of the major
planning issues. The June 1997 Public Meeting will focus on the presentation of data analysis,
constraints, maps, and an assessment of the Town's land use policies. In July 1997, the draft
policies, draft land classification map, hurricane mitigation and post disaster recovery policies, and
plan sections will be presented to the Mayor ,Town Council, and Planning Board in a joint planning
workshop. Copies of the draft preliminary plan will then be available for public review during
August 1997. The final public hearing will be conducted on September 8, 1997 prior to the
submission of the preliminary plan to the Coastal Resources Commission. In addition to the
meetings outlined above it is anticipated that the Planning Consultant will meet at least monthly
with the Town of Sunset Beach Planning Board. These meetings will be open to the public and will
be conducted at a regularly scheduled Planning Board meeting.
9-1

3. Public tification of the Land Use Plan Uodate Meeti
The public will receive notice of all its opportunities for input through the legal advertisement of
the public meetings and hearing in the Brunswick Beacon, the local newspaper which is widely read
by many of Sunset Beach residents. Progress reports and announcements of upcoming public
meetings and hearing will be published in the quarterly Town newsletter. Announcements
concerning the public meetings will also be posted at the Sunset Beach Town Hall as well as other
key locations throughout the Town. All economic, social, ethnic, and cultural viewpoints will be
considered in the development of the land use plan update.
Adopted this the 4 # h day of N o v e m b e n , 1996 by the Town C_Quncil of Sunset
Beach, North Carolina. SU
OF. NSF�- •
By: Town Seal ��; •••••••••'••, BF
Title: ,,,,, OFFICIAL
bl a y_
SEAL
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS '.• •� "
TENTATIVE DATE* EVENT N C.
October 7, 1996 Sunset Beach Town Council approves planning contract with Hayes &
Associates.
November 4, 1996 Town Council adopts Citizen Participation Plan. Approves survey form.
November 1997 Property owner questionnaire distributed with mailing of quarterly (�
newsletter. �J
March 1997 Quarterly newsletter updates property owners about CAMA Land Use Plan
and March public meeting.
March 1997 Public Meeting;, Assessment of Land Use Issues for Sunset Beach.
June 1997 Quarterly newsletter updates property owners about CAMA Land Use Plan
and June public meeting.
June, 1997 Public Meeting Presentation of data analysis, maps and constraints.
Assessment of proposed land use policy statements.
July, 1997 Joint planning workshop with Town Council and Planning Board to finalize
preliminary land use plan.
August, 1997 Thirty -day notice of public hearing. Draft plan available for review in Town
Hall and Brunswick County Courthouse.
September 8, 1997 Public Hearin, Sunset Beach Town Council approves submission of Draft
Preliminary Plan to the Coastal Resources Commission.
* Actual dates subject to change as needs and circumstances dictate.
1)

SUMMARY OF SUNSET BEACH CAMA SURVEY, DECEMBER 1996
As part of the process of updating its 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan, the Town of Sunset Beach surveyed
its town property owners and ETA residents. The November 1996 issue of the Town quarterly
newsletter contained a two -page comment form. This newsletter was mailed to 2,700 town property
owners. In addition, 200 forms were mailed to residents of the extraterritorial area (ETA) thus a total
of 2,900 survey forms were distributed. The town seal was embossed on the comment forms to insure
authenticity. Four forms were received which did not have the town seal and these forms were excluded
from tabulation.
A total of 994 surveys was returned of which 951 were from town property owners and 43 were from
ETA residents. Nearly 34 percent of all survey forms were returned which is an excellent response rate.
The Town of Sunset Beach Planning Board tabulated the survey forms and Hayes & Associates compiled
all the open-ended questions and additional comments. The following report summarizes the public
survey responses. A concerted effort was made to include all comments and concerns as noted. The
objective of this public survey was to give property owners the opportunity to express their opinions.
This has been achieved by using both open-ended and closed -ended questions. It should also be noted
that this survey is not a random, "scientific" instrument, but actually a comment form soliciting opinions.
The responses are simply "snapshots" of how the respondents regard Sunset Beach as of the time they
responded. However, given the extensive amount of comments, one may consider this effort to be an
open letter to the Sunset Beach policy makers on how its residents and property owners would like for
this community to develop. This public survey is just the first step in gathering citizen input for updating
the CAMA plan.
Who actually responded to the questionnaire? Of the town property owners, 26.1 percent were year-
round residents, 65.9 percent were seasonal/second home property owners, 3.1 percent were business
owners/ residents, and 4.9 percent were business owners who do not live within the Sunset Beach
Planning Area. Nearly 64 percent of the 43 ETA respondents were year-round residents and 33 percent
were seasonal residents.
Growth management is perceived by town property owners as the major problem and issue as revealed
in both questions two and six. A majority of the town respondents believe that growth is progressing too
fast or that Sunset Beach has had enough growth. More than one-third believe that the summer seasonal
and tourist population exceeds the town's capacity. The majority of town respondents preferred future
development on the island to be limited to single-family homes, but supported single-family residential
development, restaurants, retail services, and recreation uses to be on the mainland. Preventing high-rise
development on the island was the number one concern in question six. The majority of town property
owners did not support higher density development such as multi -family complexes, condominium
development, motels and hotels, or industrial uses anywhere within the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
Town respondents likewise did not support mobile homes within the Sunset Beach Planning Area.
Support for duplexes on the mainland was nearly evenly divided among town respondents. Both Town
and ETA respondents want Sunset Beach to continue to develop as a family resort community.
The community is still divided about the replacement of the one -lane swinging bridge. The need to
protect the environment, the provision of centralized sewer and stormwater management, and the
conservation of Bird Island were other major issues revealed in the survey.

2
Many respondents expressed dissatisfaction with others sharing opposing viewpoints, whether these
fractions were described as the "islanders vs. the mainlanders," the SBTA vs. the Town leaders, or
general resentment about "the developers." These statements reflect the growing disharmony between
segments of the Sunset Beach community. Some saw this growing divisiveness as the major problem
affecting the future of Sunset Beach.
Overall, the need for quality, controlled growth is the major theme expressed throughout the survey.
Many respondents appreciated how Sunset Beach has developed thus far, but are afraid that this
community is approaching a threshold for growth and that future accelerated growth may result in a
decline in the area's character and quality of life which attracted them to this town initially.
E9
181

TOWN OF SUNSET BEACH CAMA LAND USE PLAN SURVEY
The Town of Sunset Beach is currently updating its 1992 CAMA Land Use Plan with a grant received from
the NC Division of Coastal Management This is an excellent opportunity for town officials and citizens
to plan for the future of Sunset Beach. As the first step in this process, the Town Council and Planning
Board are surveying all property owners Your opinion is very important and we would appreciate you
taking a few minutes to complete this questionnaire. Upon completion, please fold the questionnaire with
the return address showing on the outside and fasten with tape or staple. Please stamp and mail by
1211 S/96. Future editions of the quarterly newsletter will update you about the CAMA Land Use Planning
Process and additional opportunities for you to participate Public meetings will be conducted in March,
June, and September. We look forward to working with you to develop a plan that meets the needs of our
local government and citizens Thank you!
Cherri Cheek, Mayor
(--) = ETA Response
Please check your residency status and state the number of months of the year that you live at your
Sunset Beach residence.
Type of Residency
Check
Number of Months
Average Number of
(Please check the most
Residency
Reside At
Household Residents/
applicable status
Status
Sunset Beach
Occu ants
Year-round Resident
232 (27)
11.4 (12)
2.19 (2.0)
Seasonal/ Second Home
586 (14)
2.30 (3.18)
3.73 (2.69)
Property Owner or Resident
Business Owner / Resident
3.1(0)
9.88(0)
2.5(0)
Business Owner / Non-resident
44 (1)
Not Applicable
Not Applicable
2. What in your opinion is the most important problem facing the Town of Sunset Beach?
See Attached Comments. (1) Growth and Development (2) Bridge
3. Do you feel that growth in Sunset Beach is progressing ...
280
(11)
Too fast
427
(25)
Just about right
37
(2)
Too slow
212
(8)
Sunset Beach has had enough growth
4. Do you feel that the summer seasonal population and tourist population ...
328 (18) Exceeds Town Capacity
526 (21) Is about right
28 (4) Is low compared to other coastal towns
EO

El
What type of development should be encouraged or discouraged on the Sunset Beach island and
mainland? Please leave blank if you have no preference.
Type of Development
I ISLAND
MAINLAND
Encoura ed
Discoura ed
Encoura ed
Discoura ed
Single-family Residential
721 (21)
82 (4)
703 (32)
26 (2)
Duplexes
326 (9)
522 (18)
314 (11)
318 (19)
Multi -family / Condominiums
40 (0)
718 (31)
213 (7)
442 (24)
Mobile Homes
2 (1)
774 (27)
68 (5)
594 (20)
Hotels and Motels
44 (2)
712 (30)
204 (10)
473 (22)
Restaurants
228 (14)
520 (20)
561 (25)
155 (6)
Retail and Services
153 (10)
558 (18)
560 (24)
159 (7)
Recreation
301 (17)
404 (14)
536 (21)
161 (10)
Industry
15 (l)
738 (31)
170 (6)
507 (26)
6. What do you think are the most important issues now facing Sunset Beach? Rank each
item according to the following scale: 5 = Major Issue 3 = Minor Issue 0 = Not an Issue
Score = (No. Of 5 Responses x 5) + (No. Of 3 Responses x 3) -
]Rank]/ Score Town Responses [Rank]/ Score ETA Responses
[1] 4074
Prevent High Rise on Island Y
[2] 3862
Growth Management
[3] 3645
Environmental Protection
[4] 3539
Density of Residential Dev.
[5] 3317
Centralized Sewer
[6] 3214
Conservation of Bird Island
[7] 3152
Stormwater Management
[8] 2842
One -Lane Swinging Bridge
[9] 2835
Traffic Congestion
[10] 2786
Beach Renourishment
[ 11 ] 2765
Beach Access and Parking
[12] 2664
District Representation.
[13] 2644
Public Boat Access
[14] 1944
Annexation
Other Issues:
See Attached Comments.
[1]
203
Environmental Protection and Water Quality
[2]
185
Prevent High -Rise on Island
[3]
174
Beach Access and Parking
[4]
168
, Growth Management and Development
[5]
157
One -Lane Swinging Bridge
[6]
152
Beach Renourishment
[6]
152
Conservation of Bird Island
[7]
151
Density of Residential Development
[8]
138
Lack of Centralized Sewer System
[9]
133
Stormwater Management
[10]
130
Traffic Congestion
[11]
98
District Representation on Town Council
[12]
91
Public Boat Access
[13]
73
Annexation
7. What is your vision for Sunset Beach by 2007?
714 (37) To develop as a family resort community
88 (1) To develop as atourist resort area.
180 . (12) To develop as a golfing community
Other See Attached Comments.
Additional comments may be written on the back of page one. Thank you for your participation.
0
EO

0
LAND USE PLAN UPDATE
According to the 7B CAMA Land Use Planning Guidelines, local governments must evaluate how
effectively the previous CAMA Land Use Plan has been implemented and determine what
improvements the government intends to make in this plan update. This evaluation should occur at
the beginning of the update process so as to provide a foundation upon which to develop new
policies. [ T15A: 07B .206 (6)] This questionnaire served as a discussion guide for the October 31,
1996 Planning Board meeting. Planning Board members and town officials determined whether the
policy had been implemented since 1992 and whether the policy was sufficient as currently written.
Problems with implementation and effectiveness are noted below.
Policy
Page
Implemented as Cited
Effectiveness
Yes
No, Whv not?
Adequate
FNeZ Improvement
Coastal Wetlands
p. 52
x
No
Add freshwater marsh
Estuarine Waters
p. 52
x
Yes
Public Trust Areas
p. 53
x
Yes
Estuarine Shorelines
p. 53
Town and NCDOT have
stormwater drain into SA
waters
Need to implement
stormwater
management plan
Ocean Hazards Area
p. 55, 56
x
Yes
Coastal Complex
Natural Areas
p. 57
x
NA
Areas that Sustain
Remnant Species
p. 58
x
Yes
Conservation Reserve
District Adopted
Prime Wildlife Habitats
p. 58
x
Yes
Wooded Swamps and
404 Wetlands
p. 58
x
Yes
Significant
Archaeological
Resources
p.59
x
Yes
Shellfishing Waters
p. 59
x
Implemented 4/96
Yes
Constraints to
Development
p. 59,60
x "
Yes
Protection of Potable
Water Supply
p. 60
x
Yes
Not many ETA use
wells "
Use of Package
Treatment Plants
p. 61
Inspection of package plants
not implemented
No
I
Inspection by County
I and State, not Town
10-1

Policy
Page
Implemented as Cited I
Effectiveness
Yes
No, Whv not?
Ade uate
Needs Improvement
Stormwater Runoff
p. 62
SBWSA still developing
Yes
Associated with
stormwater management
Residential
plan
Development
Marina, Floating Home
p. 62
x
Yes
Development. Dry Dock
Storage Facilities
Industrial Impacts on
p. 63
x
Yes
Fragile Areas
Development of Sound
p. 63
x
Yes
and Estuarine System
Islands
Rising Sea Level
p. 63
x
Yes
Recreational and
p. 64
x
Yes
Fisheries Resources
Off -Road Vehicles
p. 65
x
Yes
Impact of Residential
p. 65
x
Yes
and Commercial
Development on
Natural Resources
Yes
Growth Management
p. 66
x
Residential
p. 67
Multi -family allowed in
Development
commercial zones
Commercial
p. 68
x
Detailed study done in 1994
Yes
Development
Industrial Development
p. 68
x
Yes
Institutional
p. 68
x
Yes
Development
Provision of Services to
p. 69
x
Yes
Development
Desired Urban Growth
p. 70
x
Yes
Patterns
Redevelopment of
p. 71
x
Yes
Developed Areas
Commitment to State
p. 71
x
Yes
and Federal Programsi
-
10-2
0

Policy
Page L
Implemented as Cited
Effectiveness
Yes
No, Why not?
Adequate
Needs Improvement
Assistance to Channel
p. 71
x
Yes
Maintenance and Beach
Renourishment
Energy Facility Siting
p. 71
x
Yes
and Development
Tourism
p.72
x
Yes
Coastal and Estuarine
P. 72
x
Yes
Beach Access and
Parking
Citizen Participation
p. 73,-74
x
Yes
High Wind Policy
p. 75
x
Yes
Flooding and Storm
p. 75
x
Yes
Surge Policy
Wave Action and
p. 75
x
Yes
Shoreline Erosion
Development in
p. 75
x
Yes
Hazardous Areas
Public Acquisition of
p. 75
x
Yes
Hazardous Areas
Evacuation
p.76
x
Yes
Post Disaster
p. 77, 78
New policies developed in
Revised 1996
Reconstruction Polices
revised Town Emergency
Plan - 1996
10-3

11.0 REFERENCES}
Glen Harbeck and Associates. Brunswick County, North Carolina Land Use Plan 1993 Update.
Certified by NC Coastal Resources Commission September 1993.
Greiner, Inc. Brunswick County Replacement of Bridge on No. 198 on SR 1172 Over the
Intracoastal Waterway at Sunset Beach, North Carolina Final Environmental Impact
Statement and Final Section 4(f) Evaluation. October 1996.
Hayes & Associates. Town of Sunset Beach CAMA Land Use Plan 1992 Update. Certified by
the North Carolina Coastal Resources Commission March 1993.
NCDEHNR Division of Environmental Management, Lumber River Basinwide .Mate; Quality
Management Plan, May 1994.
North Carolina Division of Coastal Management: Brunswick County: Sunset Beach Land Use
Planning Information Packet, Fall 1996.
North Carolina Natural Heritage Program. Inventory of the Natural Areas and Rare," pecies of
Brunswick County, North Carolina, June 1995.
North Carolina Office of State Planning. "Population Counts, Estimates, and'Projections."
December 1996, June 1997.
Malinovsky,-Joanne.--"Myrtle-Beach-Area-Statistical-Abstract,--Ninth-Edition'-'-Myrtle-Beach-Area— --
Chamber of Commerce, April 1997.
Muirhead, Desmond and Guy L. Rando. Golf Course Development and Real Est zas. Washington,
D.C.: ULI- the Urban Land Institute, 1994.
United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service. Soil Survey of Brunswick
County, North Carolina. November 1996.
Unites States Census, 1970, 1980, and 1990.

I
NOTE: BECAUSE OF THE MAP SCALE, THE CONSERVATION AEC'S
CANNOT BE SHOWN ON THE MAP, BUT ALL CAMA DEFINED
AEC'S ARE CLASSIFIED AS CONSERVATION. THE FINAL
DETERMINATION OF LAND CLASSIFICATION IS MADE THROUCH THE
CONCURRENCE WITH THE TEXT IN THE LAND USE PLAN, NOT THE MAP.
PLAlvw
•
•
•
•
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HAYES E ASSOCIATES
2222 MIMOSA PLACE
WILMINGTON, NC 28403-2428
[phone]
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TOWN OF
SUNSET BEACH
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
INCLUDING EXTRATERRITORIAL AREAS
DULY 1997
MAP NO. 4
LAND CLASSIFICATION
SUNSET BEACH GEODETIC MARKER MO
SPC 27 NORTH (Y) - 42253.885 FEET
EAST (X) - 2146686.161 FEET
1,. = 1000'
500 0 500 1000 1500
GRAPHIC SCALE
THE PREPARATION OF THE MAP WAS FNANCFD N PART THOUGH A GRANT PROVDED BY THE NORTH
CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM, THOOUCH FUNDS PROVD® BY THE COASTAL ZONE
MANAGEMENT ACT OF 197Z AS AMENDED, WHICH 5 ANIINISTERED BY THE OFRCE OF OCEAN
AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANA(EJYIENT, NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOI ADMINISTRATION.
LEGEND
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Fi.*_*_*_tea ' : A'

HAYES E ASSOCIATES
2222 MIMOSA PLACE
WILMINGTON, NC 28403-2428
[phone]
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TOWN OF
SUNSET BEACH
BRUNSWICK COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA
INCLUDING EXTRATERRITORIAL AREAS
DULY 1997
MAP NO. 2 - LAND USE
500 0 500 1000 1500
1" = 1000'
GRAPHIC SCALE
WATER USES: PRIVATE DOCKS AREA ALLOW®
ALONC THE ESTUARK 94ORELMS
THE PREPARATION OF THIS MAP WAS FINANCED N PART THROUGH A GRANT PROVDED BY THE NORTH
CAROLINA COASTAL MANAGEMENT PROCRAK THROUGH RMS PROVDED BY THE COASTAL ZONE
MANAGEME F ACT OF 197Z AS AMENDED. WHICH IS ADMINISTERED BY THE OFFICE OF OCEAN
AND COASTAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT, NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMNISTRATiON.
` LEGEND
SINGLE FAMILY, DUPLEX, MANUFACTURED HOMES
MOM COMMERCIAL
MEM MULTI FAMILY
INSTITUTIONAL
GOLF COURSE
F--= VACANT
.. -HYDROLOGICAL UNIT BOUNDARY

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