DuckLUPCertified_111721

Comprehensive
and CAMA Land Use Plan
Adopted by Town of Duck: October 6, 2021
Coastal Resources Commission Certified: November 17, 2021
:
2
Acknowledgments
Mayor and Council
»Mayor Don Kingston
»Mayor Pro Tem Monica Thibodeau
»Nancy Caviness
»Rob Mooney
»Sandy Whitman
»Jon Britt (term: 2012 - 2019)
»Chuck Burdick (term: 2009-2019)
Planning Board
»Joe Blataitis, Chairman
»James Cofield, Vice-Chairman
»Tim McKeithan
»Randy Morton
»Marc Murray
Advisory Committee
»Henry Blaha
»Jon Britt
»Doug Brook
»Nancy Caviness
»James Cofield
»Leigh Raskin
»Ed Sadler
»Jeff Shields
»Sandy Whitman
Town Staff
»Christopher Layton, Town Manager
»Joe Heard, Director of Community
Development
»Christian Legner, Director of Public
Information
»Sandy Cross, Permit Coordinator
»Lori Ackerman, Town Clerk
»Savannah Newbern, Planning Intern
And a big thank you to all the
residents, business and property
owners, and visitors who
participated and contributed their
time and perspectives.
This plan facilitated and written by:
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
3
Community Vision and Goals 8
Duck 2027 Goals 8
Community Goals 9
1: Future Land Use 11
Guiding Growth and Redevelopment 11
Existing Character 12
Overall 12
Existing Vernacular 12
Future Land Use Map and Character Areas 14
Future Land Use Map 14
Future Land Use Character Area Descriptions 15
Duck Village 16
Buildings and Parking 16
Access and Circulation 16
Special Features 17
Boardwalk District 18
Buildings and Parking 18
Access and Circulation 18
Commercial Recreation 20
Buildings and Parking 20
Access and Circulation 20
Resort Mixed Use 21
Buildings and Parking 21
Access and Circulation 21
Contents
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
:
4
Cottage Residential 22
Buildings and Parking 22
Access and Circulation 22
Compact Residential 23
Buildings and Parking 23
Access and Circulation 23
Conservation & Civic 24
Conservation 24
Unique Partners and Civic Uses 24
2: Tools for Managing Development 27
Management Topics and Recommendations 27
Coastal Resources Commission Goals and Objectives for Land Use Management
Topics 28
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions 45
Population, Housing, & Economy 45
Population 45
Housing 48
Local Economy 49
Commuting Patterns 49
Building and Construction 50
Additional Description of Dominant Growth Related Conditions 50
CAMA Priorities, Concerns, and Aspirations 50
Natural Systems 52
Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) 52
Environmentally Fragile Areas 56
Status 61
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
5
Erosion, Soils, and Septic Suitability 62
Water Quality 64
Hazards, Storm Surge, and Flooding 66
Vulnerability and a Changing Climate 66
Local Stormwater Flooding Concerns 68
Identified Flood Zones 68
NOAA Sea Level Rise Projections 70
Community Facilities 72
Water Supply & Wastewater Systems 72
Electrical System 74
Parks and Open Space 76
Other areas 76
Historic, Cultural, & Scenic Areas 78
Transportation Systems 78
Existing Land Use & Development 80
Existing Land Use and Tax Value Patterns 80
Appendix A: The Plan Development Process 85
Update Process and Schedule 85
Appendix B: Stakeholder Interviews 89
Interview participation 89
Primary stakeholder concerns: 90
Stakeholder input 90
Walkability 90
Programs and Events 90
Traffic Congestion 90
Public Access to Water 90
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
:
6
Housing 91
Reputation 92
Neighborhood Connectivity 92
Village Atmosphere 92
Coastal Vulnerability 92
Stormwater and flooding 93
Parking 93
Balancing Needs 93
Redevelopment 94
Tourism 94
Utilities 94
USACE Research Facility 95
Appendix C: SWOT Analysis 97
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, & Threats (SWOT) 97
Strengths 98
Weaknesses 99
Opportunities 100
Threats 101
Appendix D: Public Survey 103
Process and Results 103
Residency and Relationship to the Town 104
Priorities 106
Appendix E: Public Open Houses 109
Engagement format and purpose 109
Public Open House Meeting #1 110
Stormwater and Flooding 110
Access and Open Space 111
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
7
Connectivity and Congestion 111
Natural Resources and Parks 112
Lived Experience 112
Community Vision and Goals 113
Public Feedback 114
Public Open House Meeting #2 120
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review 123
Building on previous efforts 123
Plan Assessment: Town of Duck 2007 CAMA Land Use Plan 124
Plan Assessment: Town of Duck Comprehensive Pedestrian Plan 137
Plan Assessment: Town of Duck 2027 Vision 141
Plan Assessment: Hazard Mitigation Plan 144
Appendix G: Seasonal Population Projection Methodology 149
Seasonal Population Estimate 149
Guests of Year-Round Residents 152
Other Lodging 152
Permanent Population Projections 152
Peak Population Projection 154
Appendix H: Supporting Materials 157
Existing Land Use 158
Multimodal Transportation System 160
FEMA Flood Hazard Areas 162
Town Water Supply 163
Appendix I: CAMA Land Use Plan Matrix 165
CAMA Matrix 166-170
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
8 Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
Community Vision Statement
"In 2027, the Town of Duck, North Carolina, is a thriving coastal community.
We respect and value our delicate, yet dynamic barrier island environment
- clean waters and beaches, maritime forests, wetlands, and dunescapes.
Residents and visitors alike are drawn to neighborhoods that reflect
our small town atmosphere. Our village is a source of pride, offering
diverse experiences by way of a cohesive and eclectic mix of independent
businesses, shops, and restaurants. At the hub of our community is the
Town Hall and Park, where we interact, share ideas, and build connections.
Duck’s vitality, founded on grassroots engagement, encourages meaningful
participation from all of its stakeholders. Long-term financial stability,
sustainable services, measured growth and a focus on quality of life
distinguish Duck as a preeminent destination for everyone."
Community Vision and Goals
Enhanced Movabi
l
i
tyVibrant Business Community
E n g a g e d C o m m u n i t yDuck & Our Village Responsible LeadershipEnvironmental StewardshipDuck 2027 Goals
9Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Community Goals
1
3
5
2
4
6
Duck and Our Village
Duck Village is the heart of Duck. Our collection of small shops, restaurants,
offices, parks and boardwalks together shape the Duck experience. The Village
has a continuous coastal residential style that creates an energetic and walkable
experience. Our quality of life is enhanced through innovative solutions that
preserve the Village's unique character.
Enhanced Moveability
Duck is a pedestrian first community that is safe and easy to navigate by walking
and cycling. Our multi-use trail, sidewalks, soundside boardwalk, and beach
provide a variety of ways to explore and discover Duck. Collaboration with various
organizations enables us to optimize our traffic flow in our unique seasonal
environment.
Vibrant Thriving Business Community
Duck's business community plays an essential role in creating the Duck
experience. A high level of collaboration and coordination ensures that we have
a vibrant town where each and every individual can enjoy our unique recreation,
arts, music, shopping, dining, and lodging.
Environmental Stewardship
Residents and visitors respect Duck’s fragile, extraordinary environment. We
protect and preserve opportunities for our residents and visitors to enjoy our
ocean, sound, and natural coastal habitats. Our pristine, safe, uninterrupted
beaches are our most valuable asset. Our resilience and adaptability, guided by
environmental awareness and forward thinking, ensure our sustainability as a
community.
Active Engaged Community
Duck is built on participation. We are an inclusive community that welcomes and
embraces the diversity, talents, and expertise of all of our stakeholders. Pride and
ownership is felt by all who live, work, and visit here. People feel connected by a
shared motivation to preserve the unique nature of this special place.
Responsive Responsible Leadership
Duck maintains a responsive and responsible government. Council, staff, and the
community work together to offer high quality services that add value to the Town.
We have an educated, experienced and motivated staff to execute the Town’s
objectives. Duck is an innovative and respected leader within the Outer Banks
region. Continuity of leadership preserves our established values and vision.
11
11Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Guiding Growth and Redevelopment
Community input and preferences, infrastructure investments, environmental constraints,
direction from town leadership, and other factors influenced the herein established Future
Land Use Map (FLUM) and character areas that will help shape the community's future.
The FLUM and character areas represent the community's vision for the future and will be
one of the factors that guides decision makers and town staff in future rezoning, land use,
or permit issuance decisions. However, the issuance of CAMA and development permits
will be based on the adopted standards of the Town Code and the Coastal Resources
Commission's (CRC's) permitting rules that implement the Coastal Area Management
Act. A FLUM is also valuable for communicating public investment priorities and commu-
nity norms to private sector investors. This plan is a guidance and policy document, and
is not intended to be used as a direct, regulatory tool.
Based on the community's satisfaction with the current balance of uses in town, the envi-
ronmental constraints, and scarcity of greenfield development opportunities, the future
looks very much like the present. Although development of a nature similar to the existing
conditions should be expected to be the rule, there are still opportunities to enhance the
public realm, improve standards, and elevate the experience of being in Duck. The char-
acter areas established here can be used to further refine the land use vernacular and
enrich the distinct local, coastal community feel. This chapter begins by defining what is
generally found in different areas of town and then describes aspirational goals and stan-
dards that can build upon history, past successes, and local flavor to further distinguish
the "Duck Experience."
Future Land Use
1: Future Land Use
12
Existing Character
These character areas are described in
more detail on the following pages and
are meant to provide aspirational qual-
ities for future development decisions
in Duck. The associated existing land
use category for each character area is
included in parenthesis in each section.
Overall
Duck's linear form significantly defines its
character. Duck Road runs north-south
along the Currituck Sound and is Duck's
main commercial road. Most residential
roads, which are typically private, are
culs-de-sac that extend east from the
Highway.
Development and density in Town is lim-
ited by zoning restrictions and the depen-
dence on septic for wastewater treatment.
With these limitations, development in
Duck is generally of a smaller scale than
neighboring towns.
Existing Vernacular
Duck Village
Buildings in Duck Village typify the coastal
style popular around town and generally
include pitched roofs. Commercial sites are
usually one of two types: a single building
on a parcel with parking often to the side
of the building or between the building and
the street, or a multi-building development
around shared parking.
Unlike typical town centers, which feature
a prominent main street onto which build-
ings and their tenants face, Duck has a lin-
ear center with two fronts: Duck Road and
the boardwalk. Buildings on the east side of
Duck Road face the road and are sometimes
set back by parking. Buildings on the west
side of the road often have activity focused
on the boardwalk and sound side as well.
Roadside Commercial
These parcels frequently house commercial
recreational uses between Duck Road and
the Currituck Sound. Buildings are stylishly
coastal and are generally no more than two
stories high. The structures are set back
from the street to allow for access to the
water.
The Sanderling Resort
The Sanderling Resort's buildings contain a
range of uses and are larger in scale than
most of the town's development. Much of the
open space contains recreational amenities.
Single Family Residential
In a sense, Duck is a collection of neighbor-
hood associations. Homes on the interior
!(
!(
North Duck
Watersports
Sanderling
Resort
BUNTINGLNBA
U
MTRLWAXWINGLN
HILLSIDECTSOUNDSEAAVE
MARTINLN
ELMDRCLAY STMAPLEDRSKIMMERWAYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLN
CEDARDRWILLOWDRW
A
XWINGCTBUNTINGWAYS
H
EARWATERWAYROYALTERNLNGANNETLNPELICANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAY
ACORN OAK AVERUDDYDUCKLN
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOY
S
T
E
R
CAT
CH
E
R
L
N
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA
TERNDR
OCEANPINESD
R
0'0'0'0'0'2'2'2'2'0'0'4'0'
0'2'0'2'2'
6'2'2'2'2'4'4'8'
8'2'4'6'4'6'0'0'6'4'4'6'18'14'4'6'6
'8'
6'18'4'2'20'8'6'6'6'16'8'6'6'18'4'6
'18'6
'18'18'6'2'
6'
4'6'18'2'4'6'16
'18'4'
6'4'2'4'6'2'8'24'6'2'4'
2'
6'0'2'2
2
'14'6'0'14'8'18'
1
0'12'14'2'2
0'
4'4'18'4'14'14'2'
1
6'6'8'10'18'4'6'8'10'12'12'10'8
'8'2'2'6'16'Town of Duck
Comprehensive and
CAMA Land Use Plan
Topography and connec t i v i t y
Date: 9/4/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\Topo_20190904.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not
necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
!(Points of Interest
Existing land use
Vacant residential
Public
Common, private, or unspecified
Flood zone
500-year floodplain
100-year floodplain
100-year floodplain & wave action
Curr i t u c k
Sou n d
Currituck
Sound
Atlantic
Ocean
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
!(
!(
!(
!(
Fire Station
NORBANKSDRSNIPECTFRAZIERCTRENE CTSPINDRIFT LNSHIPSWATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCK RDBUFFELLHEADRDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECK DRBARRIERISLANDSTATION
DIANNEST
SPYGLASS RD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
SEATERNDR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
Duck Pier Field
Research Facility
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
Town Hall
AQUA
Duck
Pizza Co.
Water Tower
Waterfront
Shops
Colony by
the Sea
W TUCKAHOE DR
BIAS DR
OCEANC
R
ESTWAYMARLINCTJASMINECTOCEANFRONT DROCEANWAYCTVIVIAN CTBRAND O N
CTSEAOATS CTLALACTMALL
A
RD
C
TSPECKLETROUTDR-SR1519SPECKLETROUT DRCHOCTAWCTWINAUK CTS
EAE
I
D
ERCTDUCK
R
D
-
N
C
12
YOLANDATERRMAGNOLIACTPAMELA CTSEAHAWKCTDUNESCRESTBETSYCTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIA CTSHIPS W A TC H DR
ROCKFISH LNAMY LN
CHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
HATCHCOVER
CT
NAS H R DBEAC HCOM B ERCT
POTESKEET DR -SR1297
H
A
L
Y
A
R
DCTGIF
F
O
R
DCIR
CHARLES JENKINS LNCHIPCTSHIPSWHEELCT SANDYRIDGE RD
TUCKAH O E DROCEANFRONTDR-SR1409
OC
EANWAY-S
R1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
F
OURSEASON S LN
SEA OATS TRL
D U C K HUNTCLUBLN
S ETTLERS
LNTIDES DR
OSPREY RIDGERD
THIRTEENTHAVE
BIAS LN
W SEA HAWK DR - SR 1469
SEA HAWK DR - SR 1484
GEORGETOWNSANDSRD-SR1293SEABREEZEDR
BARRIERISLANDSTATION
JAY CRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
NORTHDUNELOOP
SEA COLONYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGE DR
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 800 1,600400
Feet
Atlantic
Ocean
Atlantic
Ocean
Currituck
Sound
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
Typical development pattern is spurs off of the
main spine of Duck Road.Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
13
of the island are sited to take advantage
of the street. Along the beaches and the
Sound, homes are accessible from the
street but front the water, with patios and
pools set within the dunes on the ocean
side.
Attached Residential
Multifamily housing in Duck varies in
scale, typology, and layout. These homes
are some of the taller buildings in the
Town, reaching four stories in some loca-
tions. Developments generally contain
several distinct buildings of clustered
homes with shared parking.
Accessory Dwellings
There are Accessory Dwelling Units
(ADUs) in residential and Village Com-
mercial areas of the town. Many apart-
ments are located above businesses and
often function as seasonal or workforce
housing.
Recreation
Recreation in Duck mostly revolves
around the boardwalk, the outdoors (the
beach, sound, parks, cycling, running,
walking, boating, etc.), events, the Vil-
lage shops, and socializing at the many
restaurants. A majority of neighborhoods
in Duck own and maintain private recre-
ational amenities such as beach access,
sound access, swimming pools, tennis
courts, and/or clubhouses. In addition, a
variety of public access and recreational
facilities are permitted throughout the
town. Existing facilities include the Town
Park, Duck Trail, Soundside Boardwalk,
crabbing/fishing piers, and kayak launch.
Town Hall Park
Boardwalk
Watersports on the Sound
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
14 SO U N DVIEWTRL
WTUCKA
HOE
DR RAKIOCKCTBIASDR
OCEANCRESTWAYMARLIN CTA
B
R
ON
C
TDUCKRD-NC12VIVIAN CTLALA CTMALLA
R
DCTSPECKLETROUTDR-SR1519SEAHAWK CTSHIPSWATC HD
R
AMY LN
CHRISTOPHER DR - SR 1409
NASH R D
POT ES K EETDR
-S R 1297
HA
LYARDCTG
IF
F
ORDCIR
CHIPCTCHARLES JENKINSL
NSHIPSWHEELCT
TWELFTHAVE
T U CKA
H
OE D R
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSE A SONS LN
SEAOATSTRL
D UCK HU
N
TCLUBL
N
TIDES
DR
OSPREYRIDGERD
THIRTEENTHAVE
BIASLN
W SEAHAWKDR-SR1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
SANDY RIDGE RD
SEABREEZE DRBARRIERISLANDSTAT IONJAYCRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
NORTHDUNE
LOOPSEA COLO
NYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGH LN
PLOVER DR -SR 14
17WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER R I DGE
DRTo w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
F u t u r e L a n d U s e M a p
Date: 6/25/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\FLUM_Print_PortrLtr_20200625.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not
necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
0 2,0001,000
Feet
BUN TIN GLNB
AUMTRLWAXWIN G
LNS O UND
S E A AVEMARTINLN ELMDRGANNET CVSKIM
MERWAYDUCKRDBLUEHERON LNBUNTINGWAYROYA
LTERNL
N STATIONBAYDRVI
REOWAYACORNOAKAVEQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOY
S
T
E
R
CAT
CH
E
RLN
OCEAN BAY BLVD
OCEANPINESDRCurrituckSound A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NO R BANKS DR
S O U N D SEAAVE ELM DRSPINDRIFTLNCEDARDRBALDPATE DRDUCKRDBUFFELL HEAD RDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECKDRDIANNEST
ACORNOAKAVE
CARROL DR
OCEANBAYBLVD
SPYGLASS
R
DWIDGEON DR
TRINITIE D R
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
SEA TERN DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOWGEESEDR AtlanticOceanAtlanticOceanAtlanticOceanCurrituckSoundCurrituckSoundA u d u b o n P i n e
I s l a n d R e s e r v e
[
Future Land Use Map
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
Future Land Use Map and Character Areas
15
Duck Village
The social and cultural heart of the town is embodied by its commercial coastal village:
a mix of pedestrian-oriented uses with civic space and all the retail, services, and
recreational amenities of a small coastal town.
Commercial Recreation
These commercial areas cater to destination-oriented traffic and accommodate
recreational and tourist-oriented uses as well as restaurants and other social activity.
Resort Mixed Use
This distinctive area stretches from ocean to sound and comprises a mix of uses
necessary to support a destination resort, including a resort hotel, resort-related
offices and services, attached residential, restaurants, recreational amenities and
classes, and occasional special events.
Conservation & Civic
These are largely undeveloped areas that support conservation of natural resources
or as refuges for local wildlife. They may also house natural resource-dependent
facilities or civic uses. The beach, dunes, and open water in the Atlantic and Sound
are included.
Cottage Residential
Single family detached homes are the predominant land cover in town, which
includes year-round residences, vacation homes, and shorter term rentals, as well as
associated amenities (community facilities, docks, beach walkways, boat launches,
etc.) This relaxed residential character remains fairly distinct from neighboring towns
by virtue of it's coziness, low density, and abundant natural vegetation.
Compact Residential
These limited areas of attached residential housing have associated open spaces
or community amenities and smoothly transition to the surrounding neighborhoods
through design and landscaping.
Boardwalk District
The Duck boardwalk is the town's second main street, opening to vibrant storefronts
on one side and to beautiful views of the Currituck Sound on the other. The boardwalk
is used for exercise, relaxation, shopping, recreation, and more.
Future Land Use Character Area Descriptions
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
16
Duck Village
Buildings and Parking
Buildings in Duck Village should be invit-
ing and not overwhelming to pedestrians.
Storefronts should be mostly transparent
or have covered porch areas that span
the width of the building. Sites should
also address their main pedestrian front-
age(s), which means both Duck Road
and the boardwalk for sites that stretch
between the highway and the sound.
Parking should be on the side or rear
of the site to enhance the pedestrian
access and street frontage. Shared park-
ing and cross-access between neighbors
enhances the community feel.
Access and Circulation
Duck Road allows vehicular access to
businesses and parking, and sidewalks
and the boardwalk serve pedestrians.
Sidewalks and crosswalk improvements,
pedestrian-scale lighting, wayfinding
signage, and landscaping slow traffic
and enhance safety for pedestrians and
cyclists. In addition to convenient con-
nections from the sidewalk to the front
General Character
Characterized by a vibrant,
walkable pedestrian-friendly
experience with inviting facades.
Charming storefronts interest
people walking by and feature
small-scale commercial, retail, and
restaurants.
This standalone building with its inviting facade
is an example of the Village vernacular.
District Characteristics
Building Height Primarily 1-2 stories, with 3 stories rarely seen except perhaps as
a decorative flourish
Parking Off-street, often communal,located to the side or rear
Pedestrian Access The sidewalks and boardwalk allow pedestrian access to
businesses and North-South travel
Site Elements Stormwater retention, heritage trees dispersed throughout
Building Placement Buildings should address their pedestrian frontages
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
17
door of each business, all lots in the
Village should have sidewalks along all
road frontages, including side roads for
the length of the lot.
Special Features
With its extensive grounds and activities,
Town Hall and the surrounding park func-
tion as a recreational centerpiece and
gathering area. The playground and rich
woodland offer a respite to pedestrians
traveling Duck Road or the boardwalk in
the summer.
Sites west of Duck Road connect the
village activity with the Currituck Sound
and boardwalk. Sites east of Duck Road
connect the village activity with the resi-
dential neighbors behind them. For these
eastern properties, compatibility with
neighbors is essential.
The Cotton Gin represents the local architectural typology for
standalone buildings.
Pedestrian improvements in front of
Town Hall.
A newer development with multiple
buildings that face inward.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
18
General Character
The west side of Duck Village is
defined by the Duck boardwalk, which
serves as a north-south pedestrian
connection. The boardwalk is the
town's second main street, opening
to vibrant storefronts and to the
Currituck Sound. Any structure
or lot adjacent to the boardwalk is
included in this overlay-style district.
On the boardwalk, pedestrian
activity, recreation, natural beauty,
and transportation are prioritized.
Connections to adjacent businesses
add to the boardwalk experience.
Buildings and Parking
The boardwalk serves as a valuable
north-south pedestrian path along the
Sound. The retail shops and restaurants
along it are popular, and should open up
to and interact directly with the actual
boardwalk. Interaction between buildings
and pedestrians should be encouraged
through additional connections, outdoor
seating, welcoming facades, and other
activation strategies. Users generally
park at a participating business or walk
from their house and then travel along
the boardwalk.
Access and Circulation
Some buildings have direct entrances
from the boardwalk, but others do not and
users must exit the boardwalk to access
them. Business should be encouraged to
open up directly to the boardwalk which
should further blend the public and pri-
vate realms. Additional wayfinding may
be desirable to raise awareness of neigh-
boring businesses and recreational
opportunities. There is also an opportu-
nity to increase activity by adding more
water-based recreational access such as
docks, wildlife viewing, and docking and
launch areas.
Boardwalk District
Opportunities exist to increase the connection to
businesses fronting on the boardwalk.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
19
District Characteristics
Building Height 1 to 1.5 stories fronting on the boardwalk is pedestrian-scale
Parking Off-street, at access points; includes bicycle parking
Pedestrian Access Boardwalk allows access to businesses and N-S travel
Site Elements Mix of public and semi-public seating with overlooks at areas of
interest; connection to the water and recreation
Building Placement
Buildings should include frontage on both the boardwalk and
Duck Road; this may require multuple buildings or long building
layouts
The boardwalk experience includes: window shopping and display of wares, outdoor/patio dining,
interaction between businesses and the boardwalk, wayfinding signage, and recreational opportunities.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
20
Buildings and Parking
These uses are typically found in build-
ings of no more than two stories in the
coastal style popular throughout town.
Structures are generally set back from
the street to increase connection to the
water, which means parking is usually
most visible from the road. Activity is
heavier at the water's edge with docks
and piers extending into the sound. A mix
of uses on one site is advantageous in
order to maximize activity and use. Park-
ing is often not shared between neighbors
and should be attractively landscaped to
maintain curb appeal.
Access and Circulation
Due to the nature of outdoor recreation in
Duck, these lots typically front the water
on one side and are accessible by auto-
mobile on the other. The properties have
large parking lots that allow plenty of
parking for users. Boat access may also
be available.
Commercial Recreation
General Character
These relatively standalone
commercial areas are destinations
for recreation and dining, including
socializing and occasional events.
Interaction with the waterfront is a
draw and adds to the atmosphere.
Depending on the specific activities,
compatibility with residential
neighbors is important.
District Characteristics
Building Height Most are 2 stories, with few higher
Parking Off-street
Pedestrian Access Connections should be required to the street and encouraged to
neighboring nonresidential sites
Site Elements Landscaping should soften surface parking, and buffers are
required adjacent to residential neighbors
Building Placement Varies with lot orientation, but generally water-oriented
Sites usually house multiple uses that may
combine restaurant, retail, and/or recreation.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
21
Buildings and Parking
These buildings house a range of uses
and are larger in scale than most build-
ings in town. Hotel buildings reach up to
four stories in height, with restaurants
and other commercial structures gener-
ally at a lower height. Buildings and sig-
nage are visually cohesive thanks in part
to common ownership, but sites vary in
uses and also massing. Parking is often
shared, with significant overflow available
at certain times of the year.
Access and Circulation
Buildings are accessed from off-street
parking lots, but pedestrians can also
enter from the beach or sidewalk. Build-
ings are separated from the street by
parking and, at times, landscaping.
Development is typically interior-facing
and self-contained. Landscaping buffers
adjacent single family residential neigh-
bors. Interactions between adjacent non-
residential uses should be facilitated by a
well-connected sidewalk network.
Resort Mixed Use
General Character
This distinctive node stretches from
ocean to sound and comprises a
mix of uses necessary to support
a destination resort, including a
resort hotel, resort-related offices
and services, attached residential,
restaurant(s), and recreational
amenities. The single ownership,
quality of operations, and distinct
brand make it a unique site.
Associated ELU Category:
Commercial or mixed use
District Characteristics
Building Height Up to 4 stories
Parking Off-street, with some shared parking
Pedestrian Access Internally-oriented, with some cross- and external-connectivity
Site Elements Amenities for outdoor recreation; ample landscaping and external
buffers; shared stormwater management possible
Building Placement Varies, but typically focused inward and buffered from the street
and neighbors
The Sanderling Resort is a well-known coastal
vacation destination and resort community.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
22
Buildings and Parking
These single-family homes generally
contain 2-3 stories elevated over a park-
ing area. Lots vary in size but are usually
uniform on a street with homes set back
from the street. Common architectural
features include porches that span the
width of the home and shingle or lap sid-
ing. Homes are oriented toward the water
where possible. Buildings are separated
by relatively narrow side setbacks. Lot
coverage and scale are closely regulated
by the town as well as physical septic
limitations.
Access and Circulation
This style of development is typically
found on the side roads to Duck Road.
Streets are low-speed, mostly privately
owned and terminate in culs-de-sac. Due
to low amounts of vehicular traffic, side-
walks are unnecessary and streets com-
monly feature beach access at their ter-
minus. Connectivity could be improved
by providing voluntary bicycle and pedes-
trian connections between adjacent
neighborhoods.
Cottage Residential
General Character
The counterpoints to the active
Village are the relaxed single family
residential neighborhoods that
include year-round, vacation, and
shorter term rentals. Character is
maintained by community norms,
zoning controls, neighborhood
covenents, and other physical
limitations. These neighborhoods
encourage people to walk for
recreation or transportation.
Associated ELU category: Single
Family Residential
District Characteristics
Building Height 2-3 stories max., typically with surface parking underneath
Parking Off-street, typically in front of or underneath the structure
Pedestrian Access Individual entrances; occasional connections to adjacent
neighborhoods
Site Elements Typical single family residential elements; stormwater should be
contained on-site; natural vegetation retained
Building Placement Typically 25 feet from street, with setback yards on all sides
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
23
Access and Circulation
Future redevelopment may benefit from
orienting the homes toward the road
in order to allow ease of access for all
users. Sites should utilize coordinated
stormwater management to avoid unnec-
essary flooding. Connectivity to adjacent
neighbors should be integrated into site
design for cyclists and pedestrians. Cur-
rently, additional vehicular connections
between neighborhoods are not desired.
Buildings and Parking
Most multifamily developments in Duck
blend in with the prominent coastal style
of the town, albeit at a larger scale. Exist-
ing developments effectively break up the
larger massing with articulated facades
and decks that mimic those found on sin-
gle family homes. The clusters of homes
lend themselves to attractive open spaces
around the dwellings.
Compact Residential
General Character
Attached residential living with
shared parking, stormwater areas,
open spaces, or neighborhood
recreational facilities. These quaint
multi-family areas are attractively
landscaped and seem almost like
villages nestled amongst the dunes.
Associated ELU category:
Multifamily Residential
District Characteristics
Building Height 2-3 stories
Parking Off-street, shared or unit-designated parking
Pedestrian Access Individual entrances, accessed from parking area
Site Elements Attractive landscaping, stormwater retenion, and resident
recrecreational amenities like pools and tennis courts
Building Placement Homes are clustered around shared parking areas and do not
necessarily address the street
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
1: Future Land Use
24
Unique Partners and Civic
Uses
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineeers'
(USACE) only coastal Atlantic research
facility and associated researchers are
housed in the middle of town. Continu-
ing to protect this area's integrity and
primarily natural condition helps support
the USACE mission. This prime conser-
vation land also houses the Town's Fire
and Police Departments.
Conservation & Civic
Conservation
The economy and lifestyle of Duck relies
heavily on the natural environment. Ris-
ing seas, storms, and erosion threaten
the shores from both sides. Conservation
or restoration of these precious natural
assets is essential to the quality of life in
Duck. Coordinated effort can potentially
help secure these assets for future gen-
erations. In turn, caring for and restoring
the beach and sound can also help pro-
tect the built environment.
General Character
These are largely undeveloped
areas that support conservation
of natural resources or as refuges
for local wildlife. They may also
house natural resource-dependent
facilities or civic uses. The beach,
dunes, and open water in the Atlantic
and Sound are included.
Associated ELU category: Public
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
25
<This page intentionally blank>
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
22
27Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Management Topics and Recommendations
The Coastal Resources Commission (CRC) outlines five Land Use Plan Management Topics
that must be addressed in a Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) land use plan, includ-
ing Public Access, Land Use Compatibility, Infrastructure Carrying Capacity, Natural Hazard
Areas, and Water Quality. A CAMA-compliant land use plan must address these management
topics to ensure that plans support the goals of the CRC. Each CAMA-required management
topic includes a Management Goal and a Planning Objective, which are specified in the state
statutes governing land use planning in coastal communities, followed by recommendations
for future action. Some recommendations may align with more than one management topic.
A CAMA land use plan also affords the opportunity for a local government to address areas or
issues of local concern, which may be asset-based, programmatic, regulatory, geographic,
or otherwise. These issues were identified during the land use plan development process
and are included herein. The issues do not necessarily directly align with the CAMA manage-
ment topic structure, but are locally important nonetheless. These recommendations are not
required to have associated timelines for completion or implementation, although in some
cases these may be provided. Not all of the recommendations contain specific action items,
but that should not be perceived as any less a call to action. In addition, not all of the recom-
mendations outlined herein are immediately ripe for implementation, and (as with the Future
Land Use Map) local discretion and leadership will determine priorities and timelines. Poli-
cies that are not able to be implemented immediately will guide future development decisions
on the Town level, so that all future development will bring the reality of Duck closer to the
vision. While the FLUM and policies are intended to provide guidance during land use deci-
sions, the issuance of CAMA and development permits will be based on adopted standards
in the Town Code and the Coastal Resources Commission's (CRC's) permitting rules that
implement the Coastal Area Management Act, per Chapter 154 of the Town Code.
In the following pages, policies and implementation steps are identified by the following:
• (P) - policy
• (I) - implementation step
Tools for Managing
Development
2: Tools for Managing Development
28
Coastal Resources Commission Goals and Objectives for
Land Use Management Topics
The following management goals and planning objectives of the Coastal Resources Com-
mission are required to be identified in CAMA Land Use Plan management recommenda-
tions, even though these are not necessarily higher order or exclusive of the community's
other goals. They reflect the community's concerns and aspirations for each topic. Since
this document is also a Comprehensive Plan, not all recommendations herein are directly
related to CRC management topics. This plan is a guidance and policy document, and is
not intended to be used as a direct, regulatory tool.
Goals for:
Land Use Compatibility (LUC)
Management Goal: Ensure that development and use of resources or preserva-
tion of land balance protection of natural resources and fragile areas with economic
development, and avoids risks to public health, safety, and welfare.
Planning Objectives: The plan shall include policies that characterize future land
use development patterns and establish mitigation concepts to minimize conflicts.
Goals for:
Natural Hazard Areas (NHA)
Management Goal: Conserve and maintain the barrier dune system, beaches,
flood plains, and other coastal features for their natural storm protection functions and
their natural resources giving recognition to public health, safety, and welfare issues.
Planning Objectives: The plan shall include policies that establish mitigation and
adaptation concepts and criteria for development and redevelopment, including public
facilities, and that minimize threats to life, property, and natural resources resulting
from erosion, high winds, storm surge, flooding, or other natural hazards.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
29
Goals for:
Public Access (PA)
Management Goal: Maximize access to the beaches and the public trust waters
of the coastal region.
Planning Objectives: The plan shall include policies that address access needs
and opportunities, with strategies to develop public access and provisions for all seg-
ments of the community, including persons with disabilities. Oceanfront communities
shall establish access policies for beach areas targeted for nourishment.
Goals for:
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity (ICC)
Management Goal: Ensure that public infrastructure systems are sized, located,
and managed so the quality and productivity of areas of environmental concern (AECs)
and other fragile areas are protected or restored.
Planning Objectives: The plan shall include policies that establish service criteria
and ensure improvements minimize impacts to AECs and other fragile areas.
Goals for:
Water Quality (WC)
Management Goal: Maintain, protect, and where possible enhance water quality
in coastal wetlands, oceans, and estuaries.
Planning Objectives: The plan shall include policies that establish strategies and
practices to prevent or control non-point source pollution and maintain or improve
water quality.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
30
1: Preserve, protect, and enhance the
Atlantic Ocean Shoreline and ensure
future generations are able to enjoy its
beauty and bounty and can continue
to use the beach and water for active
and passive recreation and leisure
activities.
•1.1: Remain open to partnerships and oppor-
tunities for increasing public access to the
ocean. (P, I)
•1.2: Renourish and maintain the beach. (P, I)
•1.3: Preserve the natural value and ecosystem
services of the beach and dunes. (P, I)
•1.3.1: Conserve and maintain barrier dunes,
beaches, and other coastal features for their
natural storm protection functions and their
innate beauty and recreational value. (P, I)
Discussion: This will require
partnering with willing HOAs or
other private property owners,
seeking assistance from county,
state, or federal government,
or encouraging third-party
partnerships that enhance beach
access for homeowners, renters, or
vacationers.
Discussion: These areas benefit
from sand fencing, dune plantings
and dune restoration, and exploring
alternatives for stormwater
management.
Discussion: Continue to evaluate
the necessity of and opportunities for
beach nourishment, renourishment
and continue to balance the
distribution of proportional costs
based upon proportional benefits.
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goal
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime frame1.1 X O
1.2 X O, 2023
1.3 X X O
1.3.1 X A
1.3.2 X X O
1.3.3 X O
O - Ongoing
A - Annual
Year - Anticipated fiscal year to begin
(2023 = FY 2022-2023)
O+Year - Ongoing Effort with a
projected fiscal year for the next
significant project
Sand fencing and dune plantings help trap
windblown sand and rebuild dunes.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
31
Discussion: Continue to protect
the beach for sea turtle nesting hab-
itat by implementing best practices,
including but not limited to timing of
beach nourishment activities, main-
tenance of native dune vegetation,
restrictions on beachward artificial
lighting, minimization of human
interference in nesting behaviors,
etc.
Discussion: Recreational beach
driving is not compatible with
other uses of the beach at certain
times of the year, including some
recreational uses (sunbathing,
walking, etc.) and environmental
uses (sea turtle nesting, dune grass
restoration, beach nourishment,
etc.). Minimal use of low-impact
vehicles (e.g. – four wheelers) by
town staff or emergency services
for maintenance or health/safety
concerns is necessary year-round.
The USACE may also continue to
use vehicles on its stretch of beach
for activities related to its mission.
•1.3.2: Protect sea turtles and other aquatic,
amphibious, and beach-reliant animals and
their habitat. (P, I)
•1.3.3: Maintain reasonable limitations on
beach driving. (P)
"Sand dunes have
repeatedly proven to provide
protection from waves and
storm-induced erosion during
infrequent but severe storms
such as hurricanes."
- The Dune Book, NC Sea Grant, 2003.
Dunes help protect from damaging storm-driven waves,
and are built through the complex interactions of sand,
water, and wind.
Image from: The Dune Book, NC Sea Grant, 2003.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
32
2: Preserve, protect, and restore the
Currituck Sound shoreline and ensure
future generations are able to enjoy its
beauty and ecosystem services.
•2.1: Conserve and maintain the wetlands, and
other coastal features for their natural storm
protection functions, water quality benefits,
habitat value, innate beauty, and recreational
value. (P, I)
•2.1.1: Pursue efforts to restore eroded
portions on the coastline of the Currituck
Sound to enhance buffering of storm-
and wind-driven waves, reduce erosive
forces, increase stormwater runoff filtra-
tion, improve water quality, and otherwise
enhance coastal habitat. (P, I)
•2.2: Enhance the Duck Boardwalk and its rela-
tionship to the Currituck Sound (P, I)
•2.2.1: Explore opportunities to extend the
pedestrian connection northward to the next
commercial cluster. (P, I)
•2.2.2: Explore opportunities to increase
the number of pedestrian access points
between the Duck Road sidewalk and the
boardwalk. (P, I)
•2.2.3: Add new connections between
adjacent businesses and the Duck Board-
walk. (P)
•2.2.4: Add new kayak launches or boat
docking opportunities along the Board-
walk. (P, I)
Discussion: Shoreline erosion on
the sound side of Duck has resulted
in the loss of habitat as well as
storm-buffering wetlands and
uplands. The future of both residen-
tial and commercial properties along
the sound may be brightened by the
addition of storm-mitigation struc-
tures and coastline restorations
including options such as breakwa-
ters (living or structural), wetland
restoration, backfilling, bulkheads,
or other measures. These efforts
must be coordinated with other
jurisdictions having authority, such
as the NC Division of Coastal Man-
agement and the NC Division of
Marine Fisheries. The recent beach
renourishment project can serve
as an example when determining
cost-sharing and participation for
affected property owners.
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goal
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime frame2.1 X X X O
2.1.1 X X X O, 2023
2.2 X X O
2.2.1 X X 2021
2.2.2 X X O
2.2.3 X X O
2.2.4 X X O
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
33
Discussion: Restoration on the Currituck Sound might
involve natural wave breaks or living shorelines
with backfilled coastal marsh. This would replace
wetlands previously lost to erosion, and could also treat
stormwater runoff from roads and neighborhoods. The
resultant increased water quality would benefit submerged
ecosystems and habitat, including submerged aquatic
vegetation.
Rebuilding coastal marsh may require filling some open water habitat, but resultant
marshland would provide coastal habitat and storm-protection ecosystem services.
Source: www.audubon.org/magazine/fall-2017/louisiana-restoring-its-barrier-islands-
defend
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
34
•2.2.5: Explore opportunities to add other
nature-compatible user amenities such as
outdoor seating, shade structures, wayfin-
ding signage, scenic views, and other focal
points along the boardwalk. (P, I)
3: Preserve and protect terrestrial
ecosystems.
•3.1: Preserve and protect remaining stands of
intact maritime forests. (P)
•3.2: Continue tree preservation and landscap-
ing site development standards. (P)
•3.2.1: Implement best practices for fire and
storm safety in site development and neigh-
borhood design requirements that also
balance with the benefits of native vege-
tation. (P)
•3.2.2: Provide opportunities to educate the
public about the variety and importance of
natural ecosystems. (P, I)
Discussion: Animals associated
with maritime forests, such as the
northern oak hairstreak butterfly,
will only thrive if maritime forests
are fully protected. This habitat type
has been so impacted by develop-
ment that the only remaining viable
conservation strategy is to protect it
wherever it still occurs.
Discussion: Vegetation helps
reduce stormwater flooding and
helps treat stormwater. It also
improves air quality by trapping
dust, sand, and other airborne
particles.
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goals
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime frame2.2.5 X X X 2023
3.1 X X O
3.2 X
3.2.1 X X X 2021
3.2.2 A
4.1 X
4.1.1 X X O
4.1.2 X X O, 2020
4.2 X O, 2020
4.3 X
4.3.1 X O
4.3.2 X O
4.3.3 X X 2020
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
35
4: Guide the character, location, and
type of development and activity
in town to reinforce the “Duck
Experience”.
•4.1: Implement the Future Land Use Map and
character areas. (P, I)
•4.1.1: Review the Future Land Use Map
when deciding rezoning decisions and when
issuing permits. (P, I)
•4.1.2: Review existing zoning districts,
dimensional standards, and land develop-
ment regulations for the potential to imple-
ment character area recommendations. (P)
•4.2: Ensure that development of land minimizes
negative direct and secondary environmental
impacts, avoids risks to public health, safety,
and welfare and is consistent with the carrying
capacity of the land. (P, I)
•4.3: Enhance the character and success of
Duck Village and commercial areas. (P)
•4.3.1: Support the development of small,
specialty-type shops and the vitality of
existing, local businesses. (P)
•4.3.2: Deter adult- or sexually-oriented busi-
nesses that would harm the family-oriented
character of the town. (P)
•4.3.3: Work with local businesses and rede-
velopment projects to coordinate adequate
(and sometimes shared) parking and load-
ing/off-loading areas. (P)
Discussion: The Future Land Use
Map (FLUM) and character areas
represent the community's vision
for guiding rezoning and land use
decisions. It is important to regularly
review and update zoning districts
and development regulations, poli-
cies, partnerships, and incentives to
help realize this community vision.
In all cases, public involvement and
restraint are advisable in rezoning
(especially upzoning) any proper-
ties. Large-scale remapping and
communitywide-, districtwide-, or
leapfrog-rezonings are all inadvis-
able. Also inadvisable is any exces-
sive lengthening of the commercial
areas along Duck Road, which can
lead to a strip development condi-
tion that will dilute the village feel
and degrade the Duck Experience.
Walkable, local shops are the lifeblood of
the Duck Village Experience.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
36
•4.3.4: Refine the Duck Village aesthetic through
public investments and meaningful, objective,
and administratively-administered standards
and incentives. (P)
•4.3.5: Coordinate with the Sanderling Resort to
create a distinct, pedestrian-friendly commer-
cial and mixed use node that reinforces local
character, history, and current user needs.
Coordinate with other commercial uses to
enhance access and appearance. (P, I)
•4.3.6: Seek opportunities to provide workforce
housing at modest scale in commercial and
attached residential areas of Duck while mini-
mizing impacts on adjoining residential neigh-
borhoods. (P)
•4.4: Encourage and provide high quality, event
programming at Duck Town Hall, Duck Town
Park, and Town Green and amphitheater. (P)
5: Protect and preserve Duck’s coastal
residential character.
•5.1: Closely protect the character of exist-
ing single family neighborhoods as well as
multi-family enclaves through the adoption and
enforcement of appropriate development stan-
dards. (P, I)
•5.2: Enhance the town’s reputation as a
multi-generational, travel-and-recreate tourist
destination, with a unique, small-town, neigh-
borhood feel. (P)
•5.3: Remain open to participating in voluntary
connections between neighborhoods for pedes-
trians, cyclists, and small emergency service
vehicles (e.g - 4-wheelers, not fire trucks). (P)
Continue to increase pedestrian access,
circulation networks, safety, and comfort.
Relevant CAMA Land Use Management Topicsand Implementation Goals
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime frame4.3.4 X O, 2020
4.3.5 X O
4.3.6 O, 2021
4.4 A, 2020
5.1 O
5.2 O
5.3 O
5.4 O
6.1 X X A
6.2 X X O
6.3 X X O
6.4 X O
7.1 X O, 2020
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
37
•5.4: Support legislation providing local govern-
ments with tools to protect and enhance the
scale and character of development in Duck.
(P, I)
6: Engage in efforts to improve local
flooding and stormwater management.
•6.1: Develop solutions to flooding and storm-
water management along Duck Road and
throughout the town to ensure safe public
access. (P, I)
•6.2: Coordinate with and reduce barriers
for residents and outside agencies trying to
address local flooding and stormwater con-
cerns. (P, I)
•6.3: Ensure any stormwater or flooding solu-
tions do not negatively impact water quality or
negatively impact shared resources such as
the beach. (P, I)
•6.4: Reduce runoff through minimizing imper-
vious surface coverage, encouraging tree
preservation, and accommodating low impact
development solutions to stormwater man-
agement. (P, I)
7: Improve the community's resiliency
to rising seas and changing climate.
•7.1: Evaluate existing freeboard requirements
and other development standards and deter-
mine potential benefits of increasing them. (P,
I)
Discussion: Some neighborhoods
or individual lots experience
temporary flooding during high
intensity rain events and/or when the
local water table is high. The Town
has previously worked with NCDOT
to address flooding concerns along
Duck Road, which is the spine for
all local and thru traffic, even though
the Town does not own any right-of-
way. The Town should encourage
stormwater solutions pioneered by
homeowners or neighborhoods,
and may choose to partner or
assist based on the merits of each
individual case.
Existing freeboard requirements for
structure elevation should be evalu-
ated to determine if it is possible to
increase the safety factor while still
balancing concerns about neigh-
borhood character and maximum
structure heights. As seas continue
to rise, it is likely that current struc-
ture elevation standards will need
to be revised.
Landscaped retention ponds and swales
collect and treat stormwater and can also
function as parks or amenities.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
38
•7.2: Develop spatial projections for future,
expanded floodplains and modify local reg-
ulations to address development and safety
standards in these areas. (P, I)
•7.3: Create a Climate Adaptation Plan, includ-
ing explicit identification and assessment of
vulnerabilities, prioritization of adaptation/
mitigation projects and actions (with proba-
ble costs), and establishment of timelines for
implementation. (P, I)
•7.4: Coordinate with Dare County to explore
community-wide septic system and drainfield
monitoring, remediation, and continuity of
operations planning. (P, I)
Discussion: As seas continue
to rise, floodplains will expand
past their current boundaries and
currently unregulated structures
may become vulnerable to flood
events or wind-driven waves.
Choosing a relevant time-horizon
and using best available sea rise
projections, modeling for expanded
floodplains can be performed that
will give a proactive estimate of
which properties and structures
can be expected to be impacted.
Adopting enhanced elevation
criteria for these anticipated future
floodplain areas can increase the
lifespan and safety of structures.
Currently identified County
priorities:
»Elevation of portions of NC 12
»Identification of low-lying septic
fields and structures subject to
future inundation or failure and
planning for retirement, relocation,
or remediation
»Mitigation of erosion and storm
impacts on both the beach and
sound
»Mitigation and planning for higher
intensity rainfall events and
associated flooding
Discussion: As seas rise, some
septic fields will begin to fail, with
negative impacts to the served
structures as well as local water
quality. Establishing an up-to-date
monitoring program can ensure
these facilities do not degrade local
water quality.
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goal
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime Frame7.2 X X 2020
7.3 X X X 2025
7.4 X X 2030
7.5 X X O
7.5.1 X X 2030
7.5.2 X X O, 2020
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
39
•7.5: Adapt to rising seas.
•7.5.1: Research and adopt an anticipated
level of sea rise for future years relevant to
development projects of varying time hori-
zons (e.g. - 20 years, 50 years, 100 years).
(P, I)
•7.5.2: Update regulatory standards for exist-
ing and proposed development to meet or
exceed associated performance criteria.
(P, I)
Discussion: Development that is
permitted today may become unsafe
or otherwise compromised as seas
continue to rise in the future. Identi-
fying the projected lifespan of differ-
ent types of development and pre-
paring these structures to remain
viable throughout their lifespan
can increase future resiliency and
reduce future losses and service
interruptions.
Resilient regulation
When renovating, maintaining, or building new infrastructure, consideration should be given
to the conditions these structures will have to endure throughout their lifespans. Duck should
evaluate existing development standards using NOAA's sea level rise projections and modify the
town's development regulations to require additional elevation based on the anticipated lifespan
of the investment.
Source: Adapted for Town of Duck from the NYC Mayor's Office of Recovery and Resiliency, Climate Resiliency
Design Guidelines - Version 3.0 (March 2019) and using Intermediate High scenario sea level rise projections
from NOAA SLR Viewer, https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr.
Example of additional elevation for structures and infrastructure in order to mitigate the
projected impacts of Sea Level Rise (SLR)
Infrastructure lifespan and anticipated SLR Project type Examples of infrastructure or site elements that should be elevated, enhanced, or armored
Present day to 2040
or
1.74 feet of SLR
Temporary or short-lifespan compo-nents and finishings
• Asphalt pavement, pavers, ROW finishes• Trees, plantings, green infrastructure, and LID site elements• Street furniture, benches, trash cans, etc.• Temporary buildings• Storage facilities
2040 to 2060
or
3.05 feet of SLR
Moderate lifespan facility improvements and components on a regular replacement schedule
• Electrical, HVAC, and mechanical components, compressors, lifts, pumps, etc.• Concrete paving, retaining walls, culverts• Outdoor recreational facilities• Emergency energy generation equipment• Stormwater detention facilities
2060-2100+
or
6.76 feet of SLR
Long-lived buildings and infrastructure and other assets that cannot be relocated or elevated without highly significant investment
• Most buildings and signature or monumental structures• Major infrastructure (bridges, wastewater treatment plants, etc.)• Road reconstruction and road elevations• Subgrade sewer infrastructure (pipes, outfalls, catch basins, etc.)• Energy generation and transmission facilities
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
40
•7.5.3: Implement higher standard and
work with local utilities to improve the
resilience of public infrastructure. (P, I)
•7.6: Study areas of habitual flooding in
neighborhoods and roadways to identify
solutions to flooding issues. (P, I)
•7.7: Evaluate the impacts of sea level rise
and shoreline erosion on the soundfront
and oceanfront to improve the long-term
resiliency of the community. (P, I)
8: Promote and enhance Duck Road,
Duck Trail, and the pedestrian
experience
•8.1: Maintain existing improvements and
enhance opportunities for pedestrian,
bicycle, and other forms of transportation
in Duck. (P, I)
•8.1.1: Encourage participation and
reduce barriers to businesses and
homes connecting safe pedestrian
access from their entrances to the
Duck Trail sidewalk network and Duck
Boardwalk. (P)
•8.2: Ensure a safe, efficient automobile
transportation system, with NC 12 remain-
ing a two-lane facility with turn lanes as
needed. (P)
•8.3: Support the construction of a mid-Cur-
rituck County bridge, in order to provide
transportation alternatives and maintain
NC 12 as a two-lane facility. (P, I)
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goal
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime Frame7.5.3 X O
7.6 X 2025
7.7 O
8.1 X O
8.1.1 X O
8.2 X O
8.3 O
9.1 X O
9.1.1 O
9.1.2 O
9.1.3 O
9.2 O
9.2.1 X X 2022
9.2.2 O
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
41
9: Enhance and support police, fire,
and public safety initiatives
•9.1: Ensure safety of residents and visitors.
(P)
•9.1.1: Implement best practices in public
safety, beach safety, and risk manage-
ment. (P, I)
•9.1.2: Maintain best practices for fire and
storm safety in site development and
neighborhood design that balances other
local goals. (P)
•9.1.3: Pursue innovative visitor and resi-
dent monitoring and communication that
enhances public safety and awareness
of local traffic rules, precautions, and
conditions. (P, I)
•9.2: Plan for facilities and expansions nec-
essary to protect the public health and
safety. (P)
•9.2.1: Expand/Rebuild the Fire and Police
Department building on the USACE
property and restore the previous site to
its predevelopment condition. (P)
•9.2.2: Maintain public safety staff and
resources at an appropriate level to meet
the needs and expectations of the com-
munity. (P)
Approximate location for Police/Fire station
expansion, on the USACE property adjacent
to the current station.Duck RoadDuck RoadFire StationFire Station
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
2: Tools for Managing Development
42
10: Maintain a connected and
accessible local government
•10.1: Provide frequent, current, and high-qual-
ity communication between government, citi-
zens, and businesses. (P)
•10.2: Confirm and update as necessary the
established community vision and goals. (P)
•10.3: Continue intergovernmental coordina-
tion with the USACE, Federal, State, County,
Regional, and other governmental agencies,
non-profits, private-sector, and other inter-
ested, willing partners in the pursuit of mutu-
ally agreeable interests. (P, I)
•10.3.1: Continue coordination with USACE
to facilitate operational success at the field
station. (P)
•10.3.2: Coordinate with neighboring juris-
dictions, local builders, and other interest
groups to establish more resilient develop-
ment standards. (P)
11: Facilitate and coordinate with
utility providers to provide effective
and efficient levels of service
•11.1: Coordinate and support upgrades by
utility providers, including undergrounding,
that increase operational redundancy and
reduce interruption intervals during natural
disasters. (P, I)
•11.2: Provide efficient, economical, and envi-
ronmentally appropriate collection and dis-
posal of solid waste. (P)
Relevant CAMA Land Use
Management Topics and
Implementation Goal
Policy or Action
PALUCICCNHAWQTime Frame10.1 O
10.2 2022
10.3 O
10.3.1 O
10.3.2 X X O
11.1 X O
11.2 X X O
12.1 X X O
12.2.1 X 2030
12.2 X O
12.3 O, 2021
Duck Core Vision
In 2027, the Town of Duck, North Carolina, is a
thriving coastal community. We respect and value our
delicate, yet dynamic barrier island environment --
clean waters and beaches, maritime forests, wetlands,
and dunescapes. Residents and visitors alike are drawn
to neighborhoods that reflect our small town
atmosphere. Our village is a source of pride, offering
diverse experiences by way of a cohesive and eclectic
mix of independent businesses, shops, and restaurants.
At the hub of our community is the Town Hall and
Park, where we interact, share ideas, and build
connections. Duck’s vitality, founded on grassroots
engagement, encourages meaningful participation from
all of its stakeholders. Long-term financial stability,
sustainable services, measured growth and a focus on
quality of life distinguish Duck as a preeminent
destination for everyone.
Duck is a community that expresses its beliefs in certain
unifying principles:
TOWN OF DUCK,
NORTH CAROLINA
Surrounded by our residential neighborhoods, Duck Village is the heart of Duck. Our collection of small
shops, restaurants, offices, parks and boardwalks
combine to shape the Duck experience. The
development of the Village has a coastal residential
style and scale and its continuity creates an energetic and walkable experience. Our quality of life is
enhanced through innovative solutions that protect
and preserve the Village's unique character and
environment.
The business community plays an
essential role in creating the
Duck experience.A high level of
collaboration and coordination
ensures that we have a vibrant
town where each and every
individual can enjoy the
recreation,arts,music,shopping,
dining,and lodging unique to
Duck.
Duck is built on participation .We are an inclusive
community that welcomes and embraces the
diversity,talents,and expertise of all of our
stakeholders.Pride and ownership is felt by all who
live,work,and visit here.People feel connected by a
shared motivation to preserve the unique nature of
this special place.
Duck is a pedestrian first community that is safe and
easy to navigate by walking and cycling. Our multi-
use trail, sidewalks, soundside boardwalk, and
beach provide a variety of ways to explore and
discover Duck. Collaboration with various
organizations enables us to optimize our traffic
flow in our unique seasonal environment.
There is a conscious respect for
Duck’s fragile and extraordinary
environment.We protect and
preserve opportunities for our
residents and visitors to enjoy our
ocean,sound,and natural coastal
habitats .We value our pristine,
safe,uninterrupted beaches,which
are our most valuable asset.Our
resilience and adaptability,guided
by environmental awareness and
forward thinking,ensure our
sustainability as a community.
Duck maintains a responsive and responsible
government.Council,staff,and the community work
together to offer high quality services intended to add
value to the entire Town.We have an educated,
experienced and motivated staff empowered to execute
the Town’s objectives.Duck is an innovative and
respected leader within the Outer Banks region and its
solutions are frequently emulated by others.Continuity
of leadership preserves our established values and
vision.
DUCK AND OUR VILLAGE
ACTIVEENGAGEDCOMMUNITY
VIBRANT THRIVINGBUSINESSCOMMUNITY
ENHANCEDMOVEABILITY
ENVIRONMENTALSTEWARDSHIP
RESPONSIVERESPONSIBLELEADERSHIP
Town leadership has made a practice of
regularly engaging citizens in visioning-
and goal-setting engagement events to
ensure the lines of communication are open
between citizens and their government.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
43
Discussion: Stormwater upgrades
and constructed wetlands can help
treat stormwater runoff before it
reaches the sound. Likewise, any
environmental educational efforts,
habitat restoration, or plantings will
also likely have positive water qual-
ity impacts. These efforts could be
partnered with shoreline restoration
to achieve multiple objectives.
12: Water Use and Resources
•12.1: Encourage water conservation and
environmentally-friendly water use. (P)
•12.2: Ensure properly installed and maintained
septic tank/drain field systems. (P)
•12.2.1: Coordinate with the Dare County
Environmental Health Department to
develop an enhanced monitoring and reme-
diation program for septic drain fields that
are vulnerable to malfunction due to high
water tables. (P)
•12.3: Maintain, protect, and (where possible)
enhance water quality in all coastal wetlands
and estuaries. (P, I)
Source: Figure from Tilley, E., Ulrich, L., Lüthi, C., Reymond, Ph. and Zurbrügg, C., 2014.
Compendium of Sanitation Systems and Technologies. 2nd Revised Edition. Swiss Federal
Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag). Dübendorf, Switzerland.
A constructed wetland can treat stormwater runoff
before it pollutes local surface waters.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
33
45Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Existing and Emerging
Conditions
Population, Housing, & Economy
Population
The population of this coastal town fluctuates depending on the time of year, specifically
between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the peak vacation season is in full effect.
During that time, the 400± full-time residents are also accompanied by part-time residents,
vacationers, and weekend and day trippers. As of July 2019, there were 579 registered
voters, although these are not necessarily current residents. The census counts are
performed decennially and estimated on years in between but voter registration requires
attestation of the location as a primary residence.
Due to the relatively small permanent population of Duck, tiny variations in measurement,
estimation, rounding, or projection can cause large relative changes over the long
range projection timeframes required by a CAMA Land Use Plan. It is also important
to remember that the town is nearly fully developed, and that combined with the lack of
central sewer infrastructure and the community's desire for low- to moderate-density, the
carrying capacity of the town is significantly limited.
Population Estimates and Projections
The Town of Duck has a small, coastal village feel and many permanent residents were once
vacationers. Due to the small geographic and demographic size of Duck, a combination
of US Census and state demographer data must be used to estimate population. The
annual growth rate for permanent residents was 1.2% from 2010 to 2018. The permanent
population is estimated at 400 for year 2018 (Source: NC State Demographer, 2018).
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
46
Permanent Population Projections
Estimating and projecting permanent
population for a small town is challeng-
ing. Although a range of population pro-
jections are presented herein for the pur-
poses of discussion, the population of
Duck is expected to remain fairly steady
moving forward, at somewhere between
400 and 500 residents. For the purposes
of planning, the difference is negligible.
For full population projection methodol-
ogy, see Appendix G, page 149. For full
permanent population projection num-
bers, see page 153.
Understanding
Population Projections
Permanent Population
Persons who usually reside in the
planning area, year-round.
Peak Seasonal Population
Persons who are temporary resi-
dents in the planning area, such as
tourists and vacationers, but who
normally reside in another location;
does not include day-trippers.
Population Projections:
CAMA Land Use Plans
require 30-year population
projections, but the state only
provides 20-year projections
for counties. It is up to each
individual jurisdiction to
provide a reasonable method of
population projection.

100
200
300
400
500
600
700
20002005201020152020202520302035204020452050Permanent Population Projections
Match Town's Rate, 2010-2017
Match County projections (OSBM)
Match Town's Rate, 2000-2017
Historic population (Census-reported)
311
510
549448
369
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
47
Seasonal Population Projections
The peak seasonal population was cre-
ated by estimating and projecting forward
the amount of visitors to short-term rent-
als, seasonally occupied units, guests of
year-round residents, and other lodging.
Minimal increases in seasonal population
are expected over the next 30 years. This
is in part because the town is limited by
available land for septic facilities and no
central sewer infrastructure exists. The
community has also favored density lim-
itations that maintain local character. Few
remaining developable lots exist. How-
ever, redevelopment has the potential
for increasing population beyond current
projections. For more information, includ-
ing on the methodology for estimation
and projection, refer to Appendix G, page
149.
15,000
17,000
19,000
21,000
23,000
25,000
2010 2015 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050
Peak Seasonal Population Projection
Seasonal Population Estimate
21,450
22,770
21,570
21,770
21,970
22,170
22,370
22,570
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
48
Demographic
Characteristics
The largest individual age
cohort in Duck continues to
be people aged 65-74. When
combined with those aged
45-64, they constitute nearly
3/4 of the population of the
town.
Since 2010, the 65+ age
group has experienced an
86.3% growth rate as the US
population has aged and the
overall population has grown. Other age
groups that have experienced significant
changes include those aged 25-34 which
saw 105.3% growth from 2010 to 2017.
Housing
Residential units in Duck are predom-
inantly single family units constructed
after 1970, with a majority of homes built
between 1980-89. As of 2017, there are
2,906 total housing units, and only 273, or
9%, of those are occupied by year-round
residents, whereas the other 2,633 are
not (i.e. - vacation or rental homes). The
proportion of resident occupied housing
has increased by 3% since 2010 - a net
gain of 84 units.
Source: US Census and 2017 American Community Survey.
Vacation housing:
Duck has a uniquely
high proportion of housing
stock dedicated to seasonal
use, vacationing, or rental
properties.
3-9 Units, 2413-9 Units, 241
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
49
Local Economy
As of 2017, the Duck economy is mainly
driven by retail (19.9%), arts, entertain-
ment, recreation, accommodation and
food services (17.3%), educational ser-
vices, health care, and social assistance
(15.3%), and finance, insurance,and real
estate and rentals and leasing (12.8%).
From 2010 to 2017, retail saw a 49%
increase, along with educational ser-
vices, health care and social assistance
with 57% growth compared to finance,
insurance, and real estate experiencing
a 68% decrease in industry employment.
The median household income in 2017
was $76,875. This was the same as in
2010, with some dips in 2011, 2016, and
2013.
Employment by Industry: 2017 (Residents of Duck)#%
Retail Trade 39 19.9%
Arts, entertainment and recreation, and accommodation and food services 17 12.6%
Educational services, and health care and social assistance 30 15.3%
Finance and insurance, and real estate and rental and leasing 25 12.8%
Public administration 19 9.7%
Construction 18 9.2%
Professional, scientific, and manage-ment, and administrative and waste management services 16 8.2%
Transportation and warehousing, and utilities 5 2.6%
Information 3 1.5%
Manufacturing 3 1.5%
Wholesale Trade 2 1%
Other services, except public administration 2 1%
Agriculture, forestry, fishing and hunt-ing, and mining 0 0%
Commuting Patterns
Commuting in Duck is primarily via car,
truck, or van. 4.1% of the population
walks to work, and 1.5% take either a
bicycle, taxi, motorcycle, or other form
of transportation. The remaining 13% of
the working population works from home
and does not commute. For those who do
commute, the mean travel time to work is
17.4 minutes.
Source: US Census and 2017 American Community Survey.

9%
91%
Housing: Regularly Occupied vs.
Seasonally Occupied (2017)
Occupied Housing Units
Seasonal, Recreational, Occasionally
Occupied Units
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
50
Building and Construction
Being a small town that is mostly built out
and with few remaining vacant lots, most
construction is redevelopment of existing
lots and buildings. The key takeaways of
construction activity include:
»New single family construction permits
are steady.
»New construction value is rising.
»The number of bedrooms per home is
not rising.
»Average home size is steady (or slightly
falling).
Additional Description of
Dominant Growth Related
Conditions
A description of dominant growth related
conditions can be found throughout this
document, in particular in this chapter and
in the SWOT analysis and stakeholder
summaries in the appendices. The town
does not have sewer service, so relies
heavily on septic treatment which conse-
quently limits the intensity of development
to some degree. The town is considered
nearly entirely "built-out" and most resi-
dential and nonresidential development
is actually redevelopment of existing lots
although very limited new development
also has occurred and a minimal number
of undeveloped lots do exist (see Exist-
ing Land Use Map). The town is limited
by geography, being surrounded by water
on both sides, a nature preserve to the
north, and another town to the south.
CAMA Priorities, Concerns,
and Aspirations
The CAMA land use and development
topics most important to the community
include:
»Public Access: Little concern from
residents, although there are few public
access points, because many private
access points exist. Residents would
like to preserve the shoreline to continue
accessing it for recreation and leisure.
»Land Use Compatibility: The
Source: Town of Duck.
 ‐
 5
 10
 15
 20
 25
 30
 35
 40
New Construction
(permits, single family dwellings)
 SFD Permits
 2
 3
 3
 4
 4
 5
 5
 6
 6
 7
New Construction
(Avg. number of bedrooms)
 Avg Bedrooms
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
51
environmental beauty of the area is
a significant concern for residents.
Feedback indicated future land use
should guide development in a way that
reinforces the "Duck Experience."
»Infrastructure Carrying Capacity:
Transportation congestion (north-south)
and pedestrian safety are a concern to
residents, although in the future septic
system failures may become a concern.
The community in the future would
like to pursue efforts to mitigate future
stormwater issues and to enhance
safety along Duck Road (NC-12) for
drivers and pedestrians.
»Natural Hazard Areas: Erosion on the
ocean and sound are very concerning
and threaten the integrity of the
community. Preservation, protection,
and restoration are very important to the
Duck Community's future.
»Water Quality: Addressing stormwater
concerns is important, although the
impacts on water quality are secondary
to concerns about damage to private
property. Efforts to prevent septic
leakage will help fulfill the community's
desire to protect water quality.
Since this effort also included compre-
hensive planning components, the com-
munity was more concerned about other
issues, such as community character.
Additional description of the importance
of CAMA land use and development top-
ics can be found throughout this docu-
ment, particularly in this chapter and in
the SWOT analysis, stakeholder summa-
ries, and public meeting summaries in
the appendices.Source: Town of Duck.
 2,500
 3,000
 3,500
 4,000
 4,500
 5,000
 5,500
New Construction
(Avg. heated square feet)
 Avg Heated Area
$100
$120
$140
$160
$180
$200
$220
New Construction
(Avg. value/sqft)
$/sqft
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
52
Natural Systems
The quality of life of residents and visi-
tors of Duck is inextricably linked to the
area's natural systems. Ecotourism is the
primary economic driver. One of the pri-
mary purposes of a CAMA Land Use Plan
is to establish a rational and coordinated
local management program for coastal
resources. Identification and recogni-
tion of Areas of Environmental Concern
(AECs) and other environmental assets
is critical to the plan.
Areas of Environmental
Concern (AECs)
- Description of AECs adapted from NC
Department of Environmental Quality
(www.deq.nc.gov).
AECs are areas of natural importance
designated by the NC Coastal Resources
Commission (CRC). The State Guide-
lines for Areas of Environmental Concern
(15A NCAC 7H) require that local land
use plans give special attention to the
protection of appropriate AECs because
of their environmental, social, economic,
and aesthetic value.
Four categories of AECs have been
established by the CRC:
»Estuarine and Ocean System: This
system is the broad network of brackish
sounds, marshes, and surrounding
shores. CAMA permits are required for
development in the four subcomponents
of this system, which include:
• Coastal Wetlands. These areas
are considered to be unsuitable for
all development activities and other
land uses that alter their natural
functions. They are defined as any
salt marsh or other marsh subject
to regular or occasional flooding by
tides (including wind tides) and con-
tains one or more of the following
plant species: Cord Grass, Black
Needlerush, Glasswort, Salt Grass,
Sea Lavender, Bulrush, Saw Grass,
Cat-tail, Salt Meadow Grass, or Salt
Reed Grass.
• Estuarine Waters. These areas are
the dominant component of the entire
estuarine and ocean system and pro-
vide important habitat for a diverse
range of shellfish, birds, and other
marine wildlife. Conservation of estu-
arine waters is usually the highest
priority use for these areas. Devel-
opment activities which are water
dependent and require water access
and cannot function elsewhere (e.g.
Estuarine waters and estuarine coastal shoreline.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
53
simple access structures, structures
to prevent erosion, boat docks, mari-
nas, wharves and mooring pilings)
may be allowed within this AEC.
• Public Trust Areas. Public trust
areas include coastal waters and
submerged tidal lands below the
mean high water line (MHWL). The
water and submerged tidal lands
are held in trust for the public to use
through such activities as fishing,
swimming, and boating. The state’s
policy is to ensure that the public
is able to maintain access to these
waters. Structures and activities in
public trust areas must not be detri-
mental to the public trust rights and
the biological and physical functions
of the estuary or ocean. Projects
which would directly or indirectly
block or impair existing navigation
channels, increase shoreline ero-
sion, deposit spoils below normal
high water, cause adverse water cir-
culation patterns, violate water qual-
ity standards, or cause degradation
of shellfish waters are considered
incompatible with the management
policies of public trust areas.
• Coastal Shorelines. The estuarine
shoreline is the non-ocean shoreline,
extending from the normal high water
level or normal water level along the
estuarine waters, estuaries, sounds,
bays, fresh and brackish waters and
public areas (15NCAC 7H.0209).
Coastal Shorelines include all lands
within 75 feet of the normal high
water level of estuarine waters. This
definition also includes lands within
Duck has important and valuable estuarine habitats.
Threatened by:
• nutrient pollution (incl.
wastewater)
• sediment pollution
• untreated stormwater runoff
Provide benefits to:
• essential fish habitat
• shoreline stabilization
• wave attenuation
Ecosystem value: $7,700/acre
Submerged Aquatic
Vegetation
Source: NCDEQ, North Carolina Coastal Habitat Protection Plan, 2016
Threatened by:
• wetland filling
• erosion
• shoreline hardening
Provide benefits to:
• filtering pollutants and stormwater
runoff
• trap sediment
• wave attenuation
• reduce shoreline erosion
• habitat for finfish and shellfish
Ecosystem value: $13,360/acre
Coastal Wetlands
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
54
30 feet of the normal high water
level of public trust waters located
inland of the dividing line between
coastal fishing waters and inland
fishing waters. Generally, develop-
ment in this area must not cause
significant damage to any estuarine
resources, must not interfere with
public access to navigable waters
or public resources, have limited
hard (impervious) surfaces, preserve
natural barriers to erosion, and must
take steps to prevent pollution of the
estuary by sedimentation and runoff.
»Ocean Hazard Areas: Oceanfront
beaches and dunes protect buildings
and the environment behind them by
absorbing the force of wind and waves.
The Town of Duck is situated on a
barrier island between the ocean and
the Currituck Sound. Barrier islands
are dynamic environments subject
to shoreline changes and flooding
which may be exacerbated by storms.
The Ocean Hazard Areas include the
following:
• Ocean Erodible AEC. This covers
North Carolina's beaches and any
other oceanfront lands that are sub-
ject to long-term erosion and signif-
icant shoreline changes. This AEC
exhibits a substantial possibility of
excessive erosion and significant
shoreline fluctuation. The oceanward
boundary of this area is the mean
low water line. The landward extent
of this area is the distance landward
from the first line of stable and nat-
ural vegetation as defined in 15A
NCAC 07H .0305(a)(5) to the reces-
sion line established by multiplying
the long-term annual erosion rate
times 90; provided that, where there
has been no long-term erosion or the
rate is less than two feet per year,
this distance shall be set at 120 feet
landward from the first line of stable
natural vegetation. For the purposes
of this Rule, the erosion rates are
the long-term average based on
!(
!(
!(
!(!(!(
Town HallDUCKRDSCHOONERRIDGEDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
E r o s i o n o n t h e S o u n d
Date: 9/4/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\ErosionOnSound_20190830.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
[
0 80 16040
Feet
Context
Estuarine shoreline 2010
Estuarine shoreline 2007
Estuarine shoreline 1996
Parcel
Where we have measurements,
approximately 45 to 55 feet of
shore has eroded or become
inundated on the Sound since 1996.
55'
!(
!(
!(
!(!(!(
Town HallDUCKRDSCHOONERRIDGEDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
E r o s i o n o n t h e S o u n d
Date: 9/4/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\ErosionOnSound_20190830.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not
necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
[
0 80 16040
Feet
Context
Estuarine shoreline 2010
Estuarine shoreline 2007
Estuarine shoreline 1996
Parcel
Where we have measurements,
approximately 45 to 55 feet of
shore has eroded or become
inundated on the Sound since 1996.
55'
!(
!(
!(
!(!(!(
Town HallDUCKRDSCHOONERRIDGEDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
E r o s i o n o n t h e S o u n d
Date: 9/4/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\ErosionOnSound_20190830.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
[
0 80 16040
Feet
Context
Estuarine shoreline 2010
Estuarine shoreline 2007
Estuarine shoreline 1996
Parcel
Where we have measurements,
approximately 45 to 55 feet of
shore has eroded or become
inundated on the Sound since 1996.
55'
~55’2010
shoreline
the 2017
shoreline

h
a
s

retreated

e
v
e
n

further in

m
a
n
y

areas
1996
shoreline
The Sound-side coastal shoreline and associated salt
marshes have eroded over time. These important areas
provide valuable habitat, stormwater filtration, and
protect the town from storm surge and wind-driven
waves. Unlike the ocean-side, options for restoring
these marshes are limited, even though public support
exists for such restoration.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
55
available historical data. The current
long-term average erosion rate data
for each segment of the North Carolina
coast is depicted on maps entitled "2011
Long-Term Average Annual Shoreline
Rate Update" and approved by the
Coastal Resources Commission on May
5, 2011 (except as such rates may be
varied in individual, contested cases or
in declaratory or interpretive rulings). In
all cases, the rate of shoreline change
shall be expressed as no less than two
feet of erosion per year.
Note: The CRC updates long-term ero-
sion rates about every 5 to 10 years,
using aerial photographs to examine
shoreline changes. These maps are
available on the Division of Coastal
Management website.
• Inlet Hazard AEC. This covers the lands
next to ocean inlets, which are often
highly unstable and subject to high rates
of erosion of accretion. Note: This is not
a consideration for the Town of Duck as
there are no nearby inlets.
• Unvegetated Beach AEC. These beach
areas have no stable natural vegetation
and generally stretches from the the
ocean to the first line of stable natural
vegetation in the dune. There are none
within the Town's jurisdiction.
»Public Water Supplies: Protection of fresh
water supply sources is vital to human
health and economy. Protection of public
water supply areas prevents damage to
fresh water supplies which are vulnerable
to pollution, sea-level rise, and salt water
intrusion. The Town of Duck receives all
of its drinking water from the Dare County
Water Department wells located in Kitty
Hawk. Note: There are no public water
The seawall on this
heavily modified
shoreline provides
scarce habitat and
increases localized
erosion.
Healthy dunes and
stable vegetation
help protect
structures from
waves and wind.
Shallow waters and
natural shorelines
are interspersed
with manmade
structures and
hardened shorelines
on the Sound.
Duck Road is nearly
at sea level and
protected with rip-
rap at a low point.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
56
supply AECs in the Town of Duck.
»Natural and Cultural Resources:
These are specific sites designated to
receive protection because they contain
environmental or cultural resources
that are important to the entire state.
The CRC formally designates these
resources through a nomination
process. Note: There are no identified
AECs of this type in the Town of Duck,
although it is possible that the USACE
Field Research Facility property may
be an important Coastal Complex or
Remnant Species refuge at some point
in the future.
Environmentally Fragile
Areas
Wetlands
The NC Coastal Region Evaluation of
Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS) des-
ignates several wetland types in Duck,
as shown on the map. Most occur on the
sound, although there are some isolated,
forest-associated wetland types located
centrally.
Shoreline and nearshore habitat
Within the town, there are three broad
classifications of Estuarine Shoreline
along the Currituck Sound, including:
»Marsh
»Modified (usually bulkheads or seawalls)
»Sediment Bank (sediment deposited by
floodwaters)
The Ocean Erodible Area of Environmental
Concern.
The town boardwalk provides a view of saltwater
marsh wetlands and submerged aquatic habitat.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
57
BU NTIN GLNB
AUMTRLWAXWIN G
LNSOUNDSEAAVEMARTINLNGANNETCV
CAFFEYSCTSKIM
MERWAYDUCKRDBLU EHERON LNBUNTINGWAYROYA
LTERN
L
N STATIONBAYDRVI
REOWAYACORNOAKAVE
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOY
S
T
E
R
CAT
C
HE
RLN
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
We t l a n d Ty p e s
Date: 11 /13/2 019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\viNonCoastalWetlands_Size11x17_20191113.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Wetlands
Beneficial Wetlands (NC CRE WS )
Estuarine Shrub/Scrub
Human Impacted
Managed Pineland
Maritime Forest
Salt/Brackish Marsh
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
USACE Field
Research
Facility
N O R BANKS DR SPINDRIFTLNS HIPSWATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDDIANNE ST
SPYGLASS
R
DWIDGEON DR
TRINITIE D R
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOEDR
BIASDR
VIVIAN CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUT DRYOLANDATERRDUCKRD-NC12SEAHAWK CTSHIPS W AT
C
HDR
BETSY CTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIACTAMYLN
CHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
NASH R D
POTESKEETDR-SR 1297
GIFFORDCIR
CHIPCTCHARLE
S
JENKINSLN
T U CKA
H
OE D R
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSE A SONSLN
SE AOATS TRL
D U CK HUNTCLUBLN
OSPREYRIDGERD
BIA S LNWSEAHAWKDR-SR 1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
NORTH
DUNELO
OPSEABREEZE DR
BARRIER ISLANDSTA TIONJAY CRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEA COLONY
D
R
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGE DRA t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,5 00375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A number of wetland types throughout the study area are identified by the NC Coastal Region Evaluation
of Wetland Significance (NC-CREWS).
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
58
BU NTIN GLNB
AUMTRLWAXWIN G
LNSOUNDSEAAVEMARTINLNGANNETCV
CAFFEYSCTSKIM
MERWAYDUCKRDBLU EHERON LNBUNTINGWAYROYA
LTERN
L
N STATIONBAYDRVI
REOWAYACORNOAKAVE
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOY
S
T
E
R
CAT
C
HE
RLN
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
E s t u a r i n e S h o r e l i n e a n d S u b m e r g e d A q u a t i c Ve g e t a t i o n
Date: 11/12/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\iEstuarineShorelineAndSAV_Size11x17_20191112.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily repr esent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
Submerged Aquatic Veg.
Estuarine Shoreline
Marsh
Mod ified
Sediment Bank
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
USACE Field
Research
Facility
N O R BANKS DR SPINDRIFTLNS HIPSWATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDDIANNE ST
SPYGLASS
R
DWIDGEON DR
TRINITIE D R
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOEDR
BIASDR
VIVIAN CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUT DRYOLANDATERRDUCKRD-NC12SEAHAWK CTBETSY CTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIACTAMYLN
CHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
NASH R D
POTESKEETDR-SR 1297
G
IFFORDCIR
CHIPCTCHARLE
S
JENKINS LN
T U CKA
H
OE D R
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSE A SONSLN
SE AOATS TRL
D U CK HUNTCLUBLN
OSPREYRIDGERD
BIA S LNWSEAHAWKDR-SR1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
SEABREEZE DR
BARRIER ISLANDSTA TIONJAY CRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEA COLONY
D
R
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGE DRA t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,5 00375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
Shoreline and nearshore estuarine habitat.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
59
Prime Wildlife Habitat and Natural
Resources, and Endangered and
Threatened Species
- Contributed by Brooke Massa, NC
Wildlife Resources Commission
In the sound there are recent observa-
tions of federal and state threatened West
Indian manatees (Trichechus manatus)
and Atlantic sturgeon ( Acipenser oxy-
rinchus oxyrinchus). On the coastal side
(near shore), there are recent observa-
tions of Atlantic sturgeon ( Acipenser oxy-
rinchus oxyrinchus) and historical obser-
vations of shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser
brevirostrum). Both sturgeon are endan-
gered at the state and federal level.
There are recent observations of state
and federally threatened loggerhead
sea turtles (Caretta caretta) and green
sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), state and
federally listed endangered leatherback
sea turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) and
Kemp’s ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys
kempii). These species rely on beach
and dune habitat for nesting and sound
waters for foraging.
Pine Island is composed of Tidal Fresh-
water Marsh (Needlerush Subtype), Mar-
itime Shrub (Stunted Tree Subtype), and
Maritime Evergreen Forest (Mid Atlantic
Subtype) natural communities and has
rare dune plants, including Long Beach
Seedbox (Ludwigia brevipes), Awl-leaf
Mudwort (Limosella australis), Caro-
lina Grasswort (Lilaeopsis carolinensis),
Sand Heather (Hudsonia tomentosa),
Saltmarsh Spikerush (Eleocharis haloph-
ila). This is habitat for Black Rail (Later-
allus jamaicensis), a federally proposed
threatened and state special concern
species of bird that has been observed in
the area in the 1980s (more recent sur-
veys did not find it). Northern Oak Hair-
streak (Satyrium favonius ontario ) and
Giant Swallowtail butterflies are also in
this area.
On land, the larger refuges of Pine Island
(just north of town and owned and man-
aged by the Audubon Society) and the
USACE Field Research Facility (in the
middle of town) provide the largest hab-
itat refuges for terrestrial species in and
adjacent to the study area. There is a
historical observation of a rainbow snake
(Farancia erytrogramma) as well.
Butterflies in the area (including Pine Kemp's Ridley sea turtle, an endangered species.
Photo credit: NOAA Fisheries
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
60
BU NTIN GLNB
AUMTRLWAXWIN G
LNSOUNDSEAAVEMARTINLNGANNETCV
CAFFEYSCTSKIM
MERWAYDUCKRDBLU EHERON LNBUNTINGWAYROYALTERNLNSTATIONBAYDRVI
REOWAYACORNOAKAVE
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOY
S
T
E
R
CAT
CH
E
RLN
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
OCEANPINESDR
Pine Island/Currituck
Club Natural Area
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
E n v i r o n m e n t a l l y F r a g i l e A r e a s , N a t u r a l R e s o u r c e s , H a b i t a t , a n d B i o d i v e r s i t y
Date: 11 /12/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\ixEnviromentallyFragileAreas_Size11x17_20191112.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warr anty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
Submerged Aquatic Veg.
Wetlands
Federal lands
Natural Heritage Element Occurrence
Natural Heritage N atural Area
Biodiversity and Habitat Value
Medium
Medium -High
High
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
USACE Field
Research
Facility
N O R BANKS DR SPINDRIFTLNS HIPSWATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDDIANNE ST
SPYGLASS
R
DWIDGEON DR
TRINITIE D R
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOEDR
BIASDR
VIVIAN CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUT DRYOLANDATERRDUCKRD-NC12SEAHAWK CTSHIPS W AT
C
HDR
BETSY CTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIACTAMYLN
CHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
NASH R D
POTESKEETDR-SR 1297
GIFFORDCIR
CHIPCTCHARLE
S
JENKINSLN
T U CKA
H
OE D R
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSE A SONSLN
SE AOATS TRL
D U CK HUNTCLUBLN
OSPREYRIDGERD
BIA S LNWSEAHAWKDR-SR 1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
NORTH
DUNELO
OPSEABREEZE DR
BARRIER ISLANDSTA TIONJAYCRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEA COLONY
D
R
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGE DRA t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,5 00375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
Biodiversity and habitat resources are generally concentrated at the interface between water and land
and in large parcels of land with intact natural land cover.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
61
Island) include the Giant Swallowtail
(Papilio cresphontes) and Duke’s skipper
(Euphyes dukesi) – both state rare. But-
terflies (and all animals) associated with
maritime forests will only thrive if mari-
time forests are fully protected. This hab-
itat type has been so impacted by coastal
development that the only remaining via-
ble conservation strategy is to protect it
wherever it still occurs.
Rare plants observed in Duck, include:
Toothed Flatsedge (historical observa-
tion, state special concern), Chapman's
Redtop (state rare), Clematis catesby-
ana (state rare), and Maritime Pinweed
(Lechea maritima var. virginica) (state
endangered). These plants are primarily
associated with dune or maritime forest
communities, so protection and resto-
ration of these ecosystems will enhance
their population viability. Most of the rare
plants found in or around Duck are con-
sidered ‘imperiled’, meaning there are less
than 20 known populations in the state.
Some are ‘critically imperiled,’ with likely
less than 5 populations in the state. Pro-
tection and restoration of these natural
communities will also support the rare but-
terfly species that occur there.
(Citations: NC Natural Heritage Program.
Natural Heritage Data Explorer [web
application]. NCDNCR, Raleigh, NC.
(Accessed November 2019 and online at:
www.ncnhp.org.) and the NC Wildlife
Action Plan, NC Wildlife Resources
Commission, 2015.)
Status
Because Duck is largely built-out, no exist-
ing Environmentally Fragile Areas or Natu-
ral Resource areas are imminently threated
by development. The remaining maritime
forests outside of the USACE property are
remnant fragments with no specific devel-
opment pressures.
Primary Nursery Areas, Shellfishing
Areas, and Associated Waters
There are no identified Primary Nursery
Areas located in or around Duck. However,
the Currituck Sound is important to fisher-
ies production and supports commercial
and recreational fishing. A good portion of
the benthic habitat in the Sound adjacent
to the town has Submerged Aquatic Veg-
etation (SAV), which is an important fin-
fish habitat. The majority of this SAV is an
invasive, exotic species, but it is important
habitat nonetheless.
Giant Swallowtail (Papilio
cresphontes), a state rare species.
Source: Wikipedia
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
62
The I-16 shellfish harvesting area encom-
passes a large portion of the Currituck
Sound watershed, including the towns
of Duck and Corolla on the Outer Banks,
and Grady, Jarvisburg, and Currituck on
the mainland. The area is permanently
closed to shellfishing.
Duck's planning area represents a small
portion of the land bordering area I-16.
Per the 2013 Sanitary Survey, there are
no point source wastewater treatment
plant discharges in the planning area.
Non-point source pollution conditions
that potentially negatively affect shellfish
quality in area I-16 that are relevant to
Duck include:
»The prevalence of onsite wastewater
facilities that can leech wastewater
during extreme saturation;
»Stormwater runoff that transports
bacteria and contaminants from the
land.
»Residential subdivision
»Areas of growing concern, including
several watersport businesses on the
Currituck Sound.
Erosion, Soils, and Septic
Suitability
The primary soil type(s) are sand variants.
Like many barrier islands, this area is gen-
erally poorly aggregated, well-drained,
well-aerated, and highly erodible.
Erosion most threatens the area of town
bordering the Atlantic. To combat erosion,
Dare County undertook a beach renour-
ishment project in 2017, which helped
combat beach erosion in the Northern
part of Duck. Currently, no structures are
imminently threatened by erosion due to
the presence of the beach.
Most of the town utilizes wastewater
treatment provided via septic systems.
This lack of central wastewater treat-
ment is at least partly responsible for the
limited density of the area. The soils in
town are generally sandy and the fed-
eral soil maps (NRCS) designates the
soils as "Very limited" for septic system
suitability. This indicates that the soil has
"one or more features that are unfavor-
able for the specified use. The limitations
generally cannot be overcome without
major soil reclamation, special design, or
expensive installation procedures. Poor
performance and high maintenance can
be expected." The Dare County Health
Department permits and oversees regu-
lation of septic systems in Duck.
Being a barrier island, the depth of soil
to the water table is also fairly shallow.
The water table is also artificially raised
because properties use County-pro-
vided water which comes in on public
water pipes, but is released into the sep-
tic system to filter through the soil. This
creates a "mound" of water under neigh-
borhoods and is exacerbated by storms
that saturate the soil. This artificial eleva-
tion of the water table is exacerbated by
the increased visitation during the tour-
ist season (generally Memorial Day to
Labor Day). Under these elevated water
table conditions, some septic systems
may be compromised, and in the most
extreme saturation circumstances, water
may seep out of the hillsides, potentially
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
63
Soil Drainage
Excess ively drained
Moderately well drained
Poorly drained
Very poorly drained
BUN TING
L NB
AUMTRLW AXWINGL N
HILLSIDECTSOUNDSEAAVEMARTINLNGANNETLNSKIMMERWAYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLNBUNTINGWAYSHEARWATERWAYROYA
LTERN
L
N STATIONBAYDRVI
REOWAYACORNOAKAVERUDDYDUCKLN
CA RROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYS
T
E
R
CATCHER LN
OCEANBAY BLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
O C EANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
S o i l s
Date: 11/27/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\ii2SoilsDrainage_11x17_20191127.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NORBANKSDR
PUFFERCTSUNFISHCTTOPSAILCTFRAZIERCTSPINDRIFTLNSH IP S
WATCH D RBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECKDRDIANNEST
SPYGLASSR
DWIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOED
RBIASDR
SEAOATS CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUT DRYOLANDATERRDUCKRD-NC12VICTORIACTSHIPS W ATC
HDR
AMY LN
CHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
P O TESKEET DR-SR129 7G
IF
F
O
RDCIR
CHIPCTCHARLESJENKINSLN
TENTH AVE
TWELFTHAVE
KINGFI
SHE
RT R L
T U CK
A
HOE DR
OCE
A
NWAY-S
R1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOU RSEASONS LNSEAOATSTRLD U C K HUNT
C LU B LN
S ETTLE R SLN
ELEVENTH AVE
THIRTEENTHAVE
B IAS
LNWSEAHAWKDR-SR 1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
SANDY RIDGE RD
SEABREEZE DR
BARRIERISLA NDSTATIONJAYCREST RD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
NORTHDUN
ELOOPSEA COLO
NYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCKLANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGH LN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SC HOONER R I DG
EDRA t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,5 00375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
Soils and erosion rates are typical of a coastal barrier island.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
64
bringing partially treated septic wastewa-
ter with it. In systems closer to the coast,
that wastewater will pollute the water.
As sea level continues to rise it will ele-
vate the natural water table. Generally
speaking, septic systems in this area
need a minimum of 18" of separation from
bottom of pipe or drain field to top of the
water table. Without this minimum sepa-
ration, the wastewater is not adequately
treated. Some lower lying septic fields
may become compromised or fail as sea
levels rise, which will lead to increased
pollution of surrounding waters unless
these fields are relocated or retrofitted.
Water Quality
Water bodies in Duck are suitable for rec-
reation (see table), and are ranked by
the state based on their best use. There
are no streams and most water bodies
are tidal. There are no identified "SA" or
"high quality" waters adjacent to Duck.
"SA" waters are suitable for market shell-
fishing, and are by definition high quality
waters. Shellfishing waters in the Cur-
rituck Sound are closed to harvesting,
and are identified as "SC". This indicates
that the best use of these waters is for
supporting aquatic life and secondary
human recreation such as paddling and
boating. Waters in the Atlantic Ocean at
Duck are identified as "SB", which means
these waters are suitable for primary rec-
reation, such as swimming, diving, surf-
ing, etc. See table at right.
There are currently no known
chronic wastewater treatment system
malfunctions. The Dare County Health
Department handles septic system per-
mitting and inspections.
There are currently no watershed resto-
ration or management plans that identify
Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for
the Currituck Sound near Duck. On the
sound-side, the water is significantly fresh
enough that it does not support oysters.
These waters are also listed as closed for
shellfishing by the state.
There are also large tracts of submerged
aquatic vegetation (SAV) in the sound,
which is an important habitat type and
indicates decent to good water quality.
Although much of the SAV in this area
is exotic species, it is still important for
water quality and habitat.
There are no 303(d) listed water bodies
in Duck's jurisdiction.
There are no identified impaired streams
or changes in surface water quality (cur-
rently identified as SC) for subbasin
03-01-56 in the 2007 Pasquotank River
Basinwide Water Quality Plan.
There are no identified areas experienc-
ing water quality or public health problems
related to non-point source pollution.
Waters of the Town of Duck
Symbol Description Location
SB Tidal Salt Waters (Pri-mary Recreation)Ocean
SC Tidal Salt Waters (Secondary Recreation - minimal skin contact)Currituck Sound
Source: NC Division of Water Resources (DWR)
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
65
BUN T ING
L N
B
AUMTRLW AXWINGL N
S O UN D SEAAVEMARTINLN ELM DRGANNE T
LN
SKIMMERWAYDUCKRDBUNTINGWAYSHEARWATERWAYROYA
LTERN
L
N
P ELICANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAYACORNOAKAVERUDDYDUCKLN
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYS
T
E
R
CATCHER LN
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
O C EANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
Wa t e r Q u a l i t y a n d S h e l l f i s h M a p
Date: 11/1 2/2019
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\iiiWaterQualityAndShe llfsh_11x17_20191112.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warr anty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
Submerged Aquatic Veg.
Shellfishin g Area Status
Closed
Water Qu ality Class
SA;HQW
SA;ORW
SB
SC
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
PUFFERCTSUNFISHCTFRAZIERCTSPINDRIFTLNS H IPS
WATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDWHISTLINGSWAN DR
DIANNE S T
SPYGLASS RD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOEDR
BIAS DR
O
CEANCRESTWAYMARLIN CTJASMINECTVIVIAN CTBRAND O N
CT
SEAOATS CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUTDR-SR1519DUCKRD-NC12YOLANDATERRSEAHAWKCTSHIP S WA
T
C
HDR
BETSY CTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIA CTCHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
HAT
C
HCOVER
C
T
NA S H
RD
POTESKEET DR-SR1297
H
A
L
Y
ARDCTGIFFORDCIR
CHIPCTC
HARLES JENKINS LNSHIPSWHEELCT TUC
K
AHOE DR
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
SEAOATSTRL
D UCK HUN
TCLUBLN
OSPRE YRIDGERD
BIASLN
W SEAHAWKDR-SR1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
NORTH
DUNELO
OPSEABREEZE DR
BARRIERISLANDSTATIO NJAY CRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEACOLONYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVE
RDR-SR14
17WAMPUM DR
SCHOONERRIDG E DR
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,500375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
(SA) - Market Shellfishing Salt Water (none present)
(HQW) - High Quality Waters (none present)
(ORW) - Outstanding Resource Waters (none present)
(SB) - Primary R ecreation, Salt Water
(SC) - Aquatic Life, Secondary Recreation, Salt Water
Text
SC
SB
SC
SC
SB
SB
Shellfishing waters, submerged acquatic habitat, and water quality.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
66
Hazards, Storm
Surge, and
Flooding
A fairly high bluff runs
through the southern
and middle portions of
town, and the north-
ern area is slightly
more low lying. The
more developed area
on either side of Duck
Road is fairly susceptible to storm surge
from storms in the Currituck Sound and
some areas are known to flood during
those storms. Compared to communities
on the Outer Banks, the ocean side has
high dunes and is fairly resistant to storm
surge from storms in the Atlantic. Flood-
ing events will likely increase as seas
continue to rise.
Other areas of stormwater flooding con-
cern were identified by the community
during the public open house workshop.
These areas are often on private property
or on private roads. Previously, the Town
has collaborated with NCDOT to solve
localized flooding problems on Duck
Road.
No particular area of town is more sus-
ceptible to high winds than any other por-
tion of town. The water tower is the tallest
structure.
Vulnerability and a
Changing Climate
For the past nine decades, seas have
been rising in the Duck area, as recorded
at the USGS tide gauge in Sewell's Point
in nearby Virginia. Combined with locally
significant land subsidence, the relative
sea level rise is projected to be greater
than along other stretches of the Atlan-
tic coast. Recent evidence also suggests
that global greenhouse gas emissions are
not being effectively curtailed, which indi-
cates that seas will continue to rise and
likely at an increasing rate. (Source: Intergov-
ernmental Panel on Climate Change. 2018. Special
Report, and sealevelrise.org/states/northcarolina)
A warmer atmosphere also holds more
moisture. Scientists predict (and recent
observations have begun to corroborate)
that this will mean that future storms will
carry and drop more rainfall. It then follows
Probability of at least one storm event
1 Year 10 Years 30 Years 50 Years 100 Years
1-in-10 year storm 10.0%65.1%95.8%99.5%99.9%
1-in-50 year storm 2.0%18.3%45.5%63.6%86.7%
1-in-100 year storm 1.0%9.6%26.0%39.5%63.4%
1-in-500 year storm 0.2%2.0%5.8%9.5%18.1%
1-in-1,000 year storm 0.1%1.0%3.0%4.9%9.5%
Length of
typical
mortgage
Within lifespan
of most
structures
Within lifespan
of sturdy
structures
Hurricane Florence was at least
a 11--iinn--550000 yyeeaarr storm.
Probabilities for different intensity of
storm events through time.
Observed sea levels near Duck have risen an average of:
1.82 inches per decade at Duck USACE station, since 1978
Source: NOAA tide gauge data
1.85 inches per decade at Oregon inlet, since 19771.83 inches per decade at Sewell's Point, VA since 1927
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
67
BUN T ING
L N
B
AUMTRLW AXWINGL N
S O UN D SEAAVEMARTINLN ELM DRGANNE T
LN
SKIMMERWAYDUCKRDBUNTINGWAYSHEARWATERWAYROYA
LTERN
L
N
P ELICANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAYACORNOAKAVERUDDYDUCKLN
CA RROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYS
T
E
R
CATCHE R LN
OCEANBAYBLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
O C EANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
M o d e l e d S t o r m S u r g e I n u n d a t i o n
Date: 11 /12/2 019
Document P ath: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\vStormSurge_20191112.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without
warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
Modeled storm surge inundation
Cat.1 storm surge
Cat.2 storm surge
Cat.3 storm surge
Cat.4 storm surge
Cat.5 storm surge
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NORBANKSDR
PUFFERCTSUNFISHCTFRAZIERCTSPINDRIFTLNS H IPS
WATCHDRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDWHISTLINGSWAN DR
DIANNE S T
SPYGLASSRD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
W TUCKAHOE DR
BIAS DR
O
CEANCRESTWAYMARLIN CTJASMINECTVIVIAN CTBRAND O N
CT
SEAOATS CTLALA CTSPECKLETROUTDR-SR1519DUCKRD-NC12YOLANDATERRSHIP S WA
T
CHDR
SEAHAWKCTBETSY CTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIA CTCHRISTOPHERDR-SR 1409
HATC
HCOVER
C
T
NA S H
RD
POTESKEET DR-SR1297
HA
L
Y
ARDCTGIFFORDCIR
CHIPCTC
HARLES JENKINS LNSHIPSWHEELCT TUC
K
AHOE DR
OCEA
NWAY-SR
1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSEASONS L NSEAOATSTRL
D UCK HUN
TCLUBLN
OSPRE YRIDGERD
BIAS LN
W SEAHAWKDR-SR1469 SEA HAWK DR- SR 1484
NORTH
DUNELO
OPSEABREEZE DR
BARRIER ISLANDSTATIO NJAY CRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEACOLONY DR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVE
RDR-SR14
17WAMPUM DR
SCHOONERRIDGE DR
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 750 1,500375
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
The National Weather Service developed the SLOSH
model (Sea, Lake, and Overland Surges from Hurricanes)
in order to estimate a potential worst-case scenario for
coastal storm surge vulnerability related to hurricanes.
Potential susceptibility to storm surge varies depending on location.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
68
that nuisance and damaging stormwater
flooding events will increase and be more
severe up and down the coast.
A warmer ocean surface also has the
potential to foster stronger storms. The
storms of the future will be stronger than
those of the present. Stronger winds from
these storms may lead to greater debris
cleanup and tree maintenance needs. It
is possible that at some time in the future
a particularly powerful storm may create
a new inlet, which may have significant
effects on the Currituck Sound if salt
water influx increases.
Severe heat days are also predicted to
be more common in the future. This will
present hazards to people partaking in
outdoor activities.
Rising seas and consequently higher
water tables will also impede the abil-
ity of septic systems to function. Under-
ground salt water intrusion or overwash
from storm-driven waves into areas
where infrastructure exists (pipes, wires,
foundations, parking areas, etc.) has
the potential to reduce the operational
lifespan of those facilities and lead to
increased maintenance costs.
Flood zones will continue to move upland
as seas rise. This may lead to a future
condition where many structures are not
adequately protected from flooding or do
not meet best practices for building code
standards.
Local Stormwater Flooding
Concerns
At the public open house meeting, attend-
ees were asked to mark areas where they
have knowledge of flooding or stormwa-
ter back up concerns. These areas were
marked on a map that was created from
topographical data and shows linked
drainage catchments in the town. This
information can be used by private citi-
zens, contractors, and others to identify
solutions to these local stormwater flood-
ing issues. Local officials also confirmed
that the portion of Duck Road north of the
village and south of the USACE property
has a tendency to experience overwash
from the sound during strong southwest-
erly storms.
Identified Flood Zones
Per the National Flood Insurance Pro-
gram map, the oceanfront VE (Velocity
Hazard from storm waves) Zone & sound
front AE (1% chance of flooding annu-
ally) zone within the study area are vul-
nerable to erosion and flood hazards,
especially during winter storm events
and hurricanes. VE zones are located for
the entirety of the Atlantic Coast of Duck
and include residential parcels. AE zones
are found long the Currituck sound and
largely do not overlap with land mass. A
full map of the FEMA Flood Hazard Areas
can be found in Appendix H.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
69
Community identified areas of flooding concern from the public meeting are overlain on a catchment
analysis that shows where rainwater flows along drainages. This information can be used to identify
candidate locations for wetland restoration or green stormwater infrastructure where the drainage lines
intersect public land, common areas, vacant parcels, or rights-of-way.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
70
NOAA Sea Level Rise
Projections
As seas rise globally, the Town of Duck is
also threatened by local land subsidence,
which means that the land is submerging
even faster than in other locations on the
east coast. Understanding and preparing
for these threats using the best available
data nd projections can help the commu-
nity mitigate the negative impacts of sea
level rise.
Unless mitigating actions are taken,
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) projects that sea
level rise will cause chronic inundation
of some properties, with major impacts
possibly occurring as early as 2060.
Though 2060 is beyond the horizon of
this plan, it is still relevant to long-range
decision-making. Many of the structures
constructed and renovated today have
lifespans beyond 50 years. The best
available projections from NOAA indicate
the following potential sea level rise sce-
narios, based on worldwide carbon emis-
sions rates:
»Intermediate Scenario: Seas are 1.87
feet higher by 2060 (2' rise shown in
graphic to the right)
»High Scenario: Seas are 3.67 feet
higher by 2060 (4' rise shown in graphic
to the right)
Source: NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer (https://coast.
noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr).
Timeline and height of
projected sea level rise
Global emissions scenario:
Intermediate High
2 feet of sea level rise projected
by...
2055 2035
4 feet of sea level rise projected
by...
2090 2060
Source: NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer, https://
coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
71
Scenarios for future sea level rise are shown: Two feet rise (on the left) and four feet rise (on the right).
Depending on factors outside of local control, these might be a reality in as little as 15 to 40 years.
Source: NOAA SLR Viewer, https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr
Two feet
of sea
level rise is
projected
to have
minimal
impact,
except
possibly
to homes
directly on
the sound.
Two Foot
Rise
Four feet
of sea level
rise will
have major
impacts
along Duck
Road and in
the village
district.
Four Foot
Rise
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
72
Community Facilities
Water Supply & Wastewater
Systems
Wastewater Treatment
There is no sewer infrastructure in the
town, and all wastewater is treated onsite
(or nearby) via septic systems, and as
such, it is not feasible to know the con-
dition or capacity of such systems. There
are a very minimal number of community
septic facilities. Development in the town
is limited by the available land for septic
facilities, and future population projec-
tions are dependent on development of
septic facilities. As mentioned previously,
available land for septic system expan-
sion is very limited.
As seas rise, steps will need to be taken
to ensure the proper function of septic
system on low-lying properties. Elevation
modeling can help identify potential prob-
lem areas. Wastewater that is not fully
If septic systems
are not properly
maintained or lack
adequate separation
from ground water,
they can transmit
insufficiently treated
wastewater into nearby
water bodies. This
nutrient pollution can
lead to excessive algae
growth and degradation
of the waters that
support local quality
of life, economy, and
property values.
12
Figure 4: How rising groundwater can compromise septic systems

Source: Septic Systems
Vulnerable to Sea Level Rise (Nov.
2018), Miami-Dade County, FL (Dr.
Samir Elmir)
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
73
!(
!(
!(
!(
North DuckWatersports
Sanderling
Resort
Paper Canoe
BUNTING LNBAU
MTRLW A XWINGLNHILLSIDECTS O U N D SE A AVE
M A R TI N LNELMDRGANNETCVCAFFEYSCTCLAYSTMAPLEDRSKIMMER W AYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLN
CEDARDRWILLOWDRCYPRESSDRW
A
XWINGCTBUNTINGWAYS
H
EARWATERWAYROYALTERNLNGANNETLNPE L IC ANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAY
ACORN OAK AVERUDDYDUCKLN
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYSTERCATCHE R LN
OCEAN BAY BLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
D i g i t a l E l e v a t i o n M o d e l w i t h A r e a s o f P o t e n t i a l F u t u r e S e p t i c F a i l u r e (a t 2 ' S L R )
Date: 6/25/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\SepticFailure_DEM_20190904.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
Context
buildings
Elevation
~57 feet
~0 (sea level)
Areas vulnerable to future septic failure
3.5' elevation or less
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
Fire Station
Snow GeesePlayground
The Village
Nor'Banks
USACE FieldResearch
Station
Sunset Grille
NOR BANKSDRSNIPECTFRAZIERCTRENE CTSPINDRIFT LNSHIPS W A T C H DRBALDPATEDRDUCK RDBUFFELLHEADRDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECK DRDIANNE ST
SPYGLASS RD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
SEA TERN DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(!(!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
!(
Town Hall
AQUA
Water Tower
WaterfrontShops
Colony by
the Sea
Sunset Grille
Town
Playground
BP
Scarborough
Faire
Four SeasonsClubhouse
W TUCKAHOEDR
BIAS DR
OCEANCR
ESTWAYMARLINCTJASMINECTOCEANFRONT DROCEANWAYCTFAWNCTVIVIAN CTBRAND O N
CTSEAOATS CTLALACTMALL
A
RD
C
TSPECKLETROUTDR-SR1519SPECKLETROUT DRAZALEACTCHOCTAWCTWINAUK CTS
EAE
I
DERCTDUCK
R
D
-
N
C
12
YOLANDATERRMAGNOLIACTPAMELA CTSEAHAWKCTTERESA CT- SR 1410VICTORIA CTSHIPS W ATC H DR
ROCKFISH LNAMYLN
CHRISTOPHER DR - SR 1409
HATCHCOVER
CT
NAS H R DBEA CHC O MBER
CT
POTESKEET DR -SR1297
HA
L
Y
A
RDCTGIFF
O
RDCIR
CHARLES JENKINS LNCHIPCTSHIPSWHEELCT TUCKAHOE DROCEANFRONTDR-SR1409
OC
EANWAY-S
R1409DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOUR SEASONSLN
SEA OATS TRL
D U C K HUNTCLUBLN
S ETTLERS
LNTIDES DR
OSPREY RIDGERD
THIRTEENTHAVE
BIASLN
W SEA HAWK DR - SR 1469
SEA HAWK DR - SR 1484
GEORGETOWNSANDSRD-SR1293SEABREEZEDR
BARRIERISLANDSTATION
JAYCRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
NORTHDUNELOOP
SEA COLONYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD - SR 1518
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR - SR 1417
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGEDR
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 770 1,540385
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
For proper drainage and treatment,
most septic fields need a minimum 18"
of separation from bottom of pipe
to the top of the water table. In the
future, when sea levels rise by 2',
areas of elevation 3.5' or lower (i.e.
2 feet sea level rise + 18 inches)
may have difficulty functioning
properly.
Modeling and monitoring can help identify where rising seas might pose a unique challenge for septic-
reliant coastal communities.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
74
treated can pollute local waters, which may
lead to health and environmental impacts
and/or property value declines.
One private onsite community septic sys-
tem exists at the Sanderling Resort. The
Resort has an agreement with Pine Island
for interconnection. There are no known
capacity issues or plans for expansion.
Wellhead Protection Areas and
Drinking Water
Within the Town of Duck, there is no water
supply protection, recharge, or harvesting
infrastructure. The town's water comes
from the Dare County Water Department
well in Kitty Hawk and is piped north to the
water tower and customers in the town.
Based on information from the Dare County
Regional Water System Local Water Sup-
ply Plan (https://www.ncwater.org/WUDC/
app/LWSP/report.php?pwsid=04-28-
030&year=2020, 2020) and interview with
the representative of the Dare County Water
Department, the water supply infrastructure
is in good condition. Demand is highest
during the summer tourist season, which
has pushed demand as high as 6.0 MGD
during the businest seasons. This partic-
ular water plant has a production capacity
of 5.0 million gallons per day (MGD) with
potential to accommodate expansions that
would bring it up to 8.0 MGD (Dare County
Regional Water System Northern Beaches Capac-
ity Increase Study, 2012) Based on the Dare
County Water Department population pro-
jections, the Dare County Water demand
will increase by 2.0 MGD between its two
plants for its total service area.
The projected population counts used
by the County Water Department are
higher than the project projections in
pages 46-47. Based on the permanent
and seasonal population projections from
pages 46-47, and the Dare County Water
Department estimate of 73.5 gallons/per
day/ per resident, Duck will require an
estimated 1.64 MGD in the peak season
in 2030, including 33,300 gallons per day
for the permanent population.
There are no private water supply sys-
tems in town and no documented issues
such as overflows.
Stormwater Systems
There are a few Town-owned stormwater
conveyance systems, mostly retroactively
installed in response to nuisance flooding
issues identified by locals. Most storm-
water is handled by ditches in NCDOT
or private rights-of-way. The Town has a
successful track record of teaming with
other organizations (usually NCDOT) to
achieve these successes. Each project
has successfully alleviated the original
issue. No drainage problems or water
quality issues specific to point-source
discharge has been identified.
Electrical System
The town's electricity is provided from an
electric substation to the south. A future
additional substation in the north may
be added by Dominion Energy after the
Mid-Currituck Bridge, which could pro-
vide added redundancy.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
75
BUNTING LNBAU
MTRLW A XWINGLNHILLSIDECTS O U N D SEA AVE
M A RT IN LNELMDRGANNETCVCAFFEYSCTCLAYSTMAPLEDRSKIMMER W AYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLN
CEDARDRWILLOWDRCYPRESSDRW
A
XWINGCTBUNTINGWAYS
H
EARWATERWAYROYALTERNLNGANNETLNPE L IC ANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAY
ACORN OAK AVERUDDYDUCKLN
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYSTERCATCHER LN
OCEAN BAY BLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
W a s t e w a t e r S e r v i c e
Date: 12/18/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\SepticService_20201217.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NOR BANKS DRSNIPECTFRAZIERCTRENE CTSPINDRIFT LNSHIPS W A T C H DRBALDPATEDRDUCK RDBUFFELLHEADRDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECK DRD IANNE ST
SPYGLASS RD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
SEA TERN DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 800 1,600400
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A u d u b o n P i n e
I s l a n d R e s e r v e
Context
Sanderling Septic
Private Septic
Parcel
The wholeTown is under private septic service, with the Sanderling Resort as the sole exception.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
76
Parks and Open Space
Beaches and waterways
The Town provides access to the Cur-
rituck Sound at several locations along
the boardwalk. Access to the ocean is
generally from private neighborhoods on
their privately maintained access points.
Options for new public access points were
severely limited before Duck was even
incorporated, mostly due to subdivisions
and land use decisions that occurred
when the land was under the jurisdiction
of the County.
Parks
The Town has purchased and
developed a community prop-
erty in the Village District
along Duck Road. This prop-
erty includes Town Hall, Town
Park, a stage, amphitheater,
boardwalk with kayak launch,
nature trail, picnicking areas,
a playground, parking lot, town
staff offices, and community
meeting hall. Citizens and vis-
itors appreciate the events and
programs in this public space.
Some private neighborhoods
also have recreational facilities.
Greenways and Trails
The Town has aggressively
pursued implementation of
their Pedestrian Plan and have
achieved great success in
improving the pedestrian realm.
The town has heavily invested
in bicycle and pedestrian upgrades, par-
ticularly in the Village District. These
improvements have been well received
by visitors and residents.
Other areas
United States Army Corps of
Engineers (USACE) Coastal and
Hydraulics Field Research Facility
The only coastal federal USACE research
facility on the east coast is in Duck. It cur-
rently houses about 20 researchers and
Public beach access in Duck.
Constraints:
• Nearly all oceanfront lots are already
developed
• All access is through private neighborhoods
• Legislation passed at the state level
specifically omits the language necessary
to enable the Town to condemn land for
public beach access
• Infringement on Homeowners Associations
covenants and/or deed restrictions is
extremely infeasible
• Unwilling public (USACE) and private
(landowners) partners stifle options
Other considerations:
• Vast majority of properties (~95%) already
have private access
• Only local funding sources used for beach
nourishment
• Only local funds planned for beach
maintenance
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
77
staff and has plans to expand and add
another dozen or so personnel. In the
past, some public access to the ocean
was provided here, but that privilege has
since been removed except for emer-
gency and surf rescue services and there
are no plans to provide beach or sound
access on the property. It is now reserved
exclusively for research activities.
Audubon Pine Island Reserve
Although not within town limits, this major
natural resource borders the northern
edge of Duck. It provides a large natu-
ral refuge for animals, plants, fishes, and
other critters. In order to remain function-
ing, the Reserve has plans in place to
elevate and relocate structures as seas
continue to rise.
Approximately 95% of
residential lots in Duck have
some form of access to the
ocean.
The few neighborhoods
without dedicated access to
the ocean include:
• Duck Ridge Village
• Founders Ridge
• Jay Crest
• Nantucket Village
• Osprey Ridge
• West Winds
• and a handful of Sound-front
homes
Public access to the Sound is
available in multiple locations
along the Duck boardwalk.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
78
Historic, Cultural, & Scenic
Areas
There are no state-designated histori-
cal, cultural, or scenic areas in the town.
An old cemetery has been preserved at
Town Park. State-identified (https://www.
ncdcr.gov/about/history/division-historical-re-
sources) resources include:
»Caffey's Inlet Lifesaving Station
»Larmore House, at 108 Acorn Oak Drive
»(former) Emerson Rogers House
»(former) Duck Post Office
Town Hall and its surrounding facilities
form the unofficial cultural center of Duck.
It hosts the Bias Speaker Series, a rotat-
ing art gallery that is free and open to the
public, and other classes and events on
the grounds. Additionally, organizations
such as HOAs utilize the town meeting
spaces regularly.
Transportation Systems
The Town does not own any roads or rights-
of-way - they are all either private or NCDOT
roads, and these entities are responsible for
their maintenance. North-to-south connectiv-
ity is limited primarily to Duck Road. During
high water storm events, it is possible to get
overwash onto sections of Duck Road.
Traffic in Duck is congested due to through
traffic on NC-12. Congestion is heaviest
during the tourist season.
The Mid-Currituck Bridge north of town is
planned and officially supported by the Town.
It would provide an additional connection
from Corolla to the mainland at Aydlett. This
bridge is outside of the town limits of Duck,
but is anticipated to significantly reduce
thru-traffic in the town, per the "Mid-Cur-
rituck Bridge Traffic and Revenue Forecasts"
report produced by the Currituck Develop-
ment Group in 2011. This report states that
NC-12 experiences a Level of Serivce of E
or F in Duck in the summer months, and pre-
dicts that by 2035, will be operating at an
LOS F during the summer without the bridge
project. The 2015 Dare County CTP recom-
mends NC-12 for future bus service. It also
states that the portion of NC-12 in Duck is
near capacity as of 2012, with a small por-
tion over capacity. It is projected to be over
capacity in 2035.
With Duck Road serving as the main spine
of the Town's transportation network, sup-
ported by a system of primarily private road,
land use follows a strict pattern: residential
uses on the private roads, and most all other
uses along Duck road.
There are no ports or airports in the town.
Caffey's lifesaving station. Source: Historic
Architecture Research. Project Records
(UA110.041), Special Collections Research Center
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
79
A few private boat ramps exist on the
Sound.AtlanticOcean
TUCKAHOEDR
BIAS DR MARLINCTOCEANFRONTDR
VIVIANCTLALA CTMALL
ARDCT SPECKLETROUTDRAZALEACTWINAUKCTDUCKRDSEAHAWK CTAMY LN
CHRISTOPHER DR
NASH R D
POTESKEETDR
HA
L
YARDCTG
IFFORDCIR
CHIPCTCHAR
L
ES JENKINS LN
DUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOURSE A SONS LN
SEA OATS TRL
D U CK HUN
TCLUBL
N
TIDES DR
OSPRE YRIDGERD
BI
A
SL
NSEA HAWK DR
SEABREEZE DR
BARRIERISLAND STATIONJAYCRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
SEA COLO
NYDR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDG EDRStan WhiteT
u
c
k
a
h
o
e
BUN TIN GL NBAUMTRLWAXWIN G
LNSO UNDSEAAVEMARTINLNGANNETCVSKIMMERWAYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLNVIREOWAYSTATIONBAYDRACORNOAKAVE
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOCEANBAYBLVD
OCEA N PINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n S y s t e m s a n d S t o r m w a t e r F a c i l i t i e s
Date: 6/25/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FinalMapDocs\Transportation_Portr11x17_20200519.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
USACE Field
Research
Facility
NO R BANKS DRRENECT SPINDRIFTLNSH IPSW
ATCH DRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELL HEAD RDWHISTLINGSWAN DR
DIANNE
ST
S P YG LASS RD
WIDGEON
DR
TRINITIE D R
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 700 1,400350
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
Facilities
Stormwater
Stormwater (multi-use path)
Pedestrian
Pedestrian Crossings
Roads
Hwy 12 (8,700 AADT in 2018)
Other Public Roads
Private roads
Primarily due to land use and subdivision decisions made prior to the town's incorporation, vehicular
connectivity between neighborhoods is limited and north-south connectivity is primarily achieved along
Duck Road. Pedestrian connectivity is somewhat less limited, and recent improvements have helped.
A larger version of this map is available on page 160-161.
Lifesaving Station (Historic)
Larmore House
(Historic)
Town Hall
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
80
Existing Land Use &
Development
Existing Land Use and Tax
Value Patterns
The Town of Duck stretches from the Cur-
rituck Sound on the west to the Atlantic
Ocean on the east, and from the county
line on the north to the Town of Southern
Shores on the south. Like many towns, the
majority of the area is occupied by single
family residential homes, with additional
multi-family residential at select locations.
A majority of commercial uses are cen-
trally located in Duck Village with several
small commercial nodes located north of
the Village along Duck Road. There are
two large areas of publicly-owned land -
one is the Town Hall and town park, and
the other is the USACE Field Research
Facility.
The majority of the town's taxable prop-
erty value lies in residential uses, with
the vast majority of that within single fam-
ily residential properties. Most of these
neighborhoods have private streets and/
or homeowner's associations. The short-
term rentals within many of these homes
also drives local sales tax and economic
activity. Publicly-owned properties (like
the USACE facility) do not contribute tax
dollars directly to the Town's coffers.
Land area (acres)
1%3%
4%
2%
87%
3%
Total  tax value 
Count Improvements tax value Total tax value Land area (acres)
136 $32,100 $32,300 71
82 $21,876,700 $33,870,700 77
44 $33,385,800 $65,317,200 68
2 $0 $0 169
2223 $623,211,700 $1,335,375,000 838
ELU
Common, private, or unspecified
Multi‐family residential
Commercial or mixed use
Public
Single family residential
Vacant residential 192 $0 $42,042,800 67
HAS BEEN UPDATED WITH 09/12/2019 DATA FROM SANDY CROSS.
Total  tax value
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
81
Existing Land Use was determined using current tax parcel data and fact-checked by local knowledge.
A larger version of this map is available in Appendix H.
Existing Land Use
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
3: Existing and Emerging Conditions
82
Existing Land Use Descriptions
Symbol Characteristics Associated Existing Character Area
Single Family
Residential
Single family homes, sometimes elevated. Primarily found in pri-
vate developments. Detached homes in Duck represent over 65%
of the land area. While there are some single story homes, many
have two to three stories of livable space set over a parking area.
Single Family Residential
Multifamily
Residential
Apartment, condo, or townhome-style residences with common
open space and shared parking. Attached Residential
Commercial or
Mixed Use
These parcels frequently house commercial recreational uses
between Duck Road and the Currituck Sound. Buildings are
stylishly coastal and are generally no more than two stories high.
The structures are set back from the street to allow for access to
the water. This use also includes The Sanderling and other resort
areas.
Roadside Commercial, Duck Village,
Sanderling Resort
Public
Public land is very limited in Duck. It is primarily composed of the
USACE Resarch Facility land and some open space around Duck
Town Hall.
Recreation, Other
Common,
private, or
unspecified
This land is primarily space dedicated to utilities or recreation
amenities that are private to HOAs.
Duck Village, Single Family Residential,
other
Vacant
Residential Vacant homes among single family residential parcels Single Family Residential
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
83
<This page intentionally blank>
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
AA
85Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Update Process and Schedule
The Town of Duck began updating its Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan in May
of 2019. The plan will build on the visioning and goals work already performed in 2017.
Feedback from stakeholders, members of the public, and elected and appointed officials
was essential to plan development. The basic process used for updating the plan is
recorded here.
Appendix A: The Plan
Development Process
2019 2020
PHASE MAYJUNJULAUGSEPTOCTNOVDECJANFEB MARAPRMAYJUNJUL1. PROJECT
INITIATION
2. INVENTORY &
ANALYSIS
3. PLAN DEVELOPMENT
& REVIEW
4. IMPLEMENTATION &
ADOPTION
Project schedule
86 The people:The process:This appointed committee
reviews all intermediate
work products and guides
the information and
recommendations produced by
the consultant.
Advisory
Committee
Focal groups with subject
area expertise share insight
and help identify issues and
challenges.
Stakeholders
One of many stakeholder
group meetings.
Advisory Committee
meeting
There is no substitute for the
in-depth local knowledge
and expertise that these
professionals provide.
Town Staff
Stakeholder
Summary
A summary of
the issues and
opportunities impacting
the community in the
current day and near
future.
SWOT
Analysis
An inventory of the
community’s Strengths,
Weaknesses,
Opportunities, and
Threats.
Survey
Summary
Used to inform
recommendations and
inquiry.
The town’s previous
visioning and goal
setting provides a firm
ground for beginning
the plan.
Town Vision &
Goals
The product:Supportive actions:
Interviews Review and Direction
Background Plans & Demographic Research, GIS & Mapping, Asset Inventory,
Vulnerability Assessment, Policy & Regulatory Research, Public Comment
Compilation, Document Revisions, Character Area Development, Etc.
Appendix A: The Plan Development Process
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
87
Background Plans & Demographic Research, GIS & Mapping, Asset Inventory,
Vulnerability Assessment, Policy & Regulatory Research, Public Comment
Compilation, Document Revisions, Character Area Development, Etc.
Town Council
After a draft plan is
developed, public
review and vetting will
help identify areas that
need more attention or
additional consideration.
Public engagement
to gather information,
evaluate proposed
actions, and share
perspectives.
A public survey to
gauge support for
recent actions and
assess community
priorities.
Planning Board and Town
Council will review the plan and
take additional direct public
comment during the public
adoption period.
and
Public
Workshop &
Pop-ups
Online Survey Public Plan
Review
Planning BoardPublic
Adopted Plan
Public Input
and Review
All public participation and
input is considered.
Future Land Use Map
Policy
Recommendations
Draft Plan
To be reviewed and vetted by the
community.
Guides rezonings.
Guides public investment and
prioritization.
Used to guide land use and
public investment decisions, as
well as a roadmap to achieving
community goals.
Summary of outreach record and access
DuckOBXTown’s Twitter:
#DuckLUPProject hashtag:
Town of DuckFacebook:
www.townofduck.com/duck-nc-newsletter-signup/
In addition to required legal noticing, the plan update was regularly publicly advertised.
Town’s e-newsletter:
www.townofduck.com/lup/Project website:
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
BB
89Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Appendix B:
Stakeholder Interviews
Interview participation
Over an intensive two-day period, representative stakeholders were interviewed to iden-
tify opportunities, challenges, issues, values, goals, and priorities for the future of Duck.
These views do not represent the town's but are a collection of views from vested parties
that work, live, or own or operate property or facilities in the town or greater region.
Representatives were present from each of the following stakeholder groups:
»Outer Banks Association of Realtors
»Dare County Environmental Health
Department
»Local Commercial Business Owners
»NC Division of Coastal Management
»NCDOT
»The Sanderling Resort
»Homebuilders Association
»Local Homeowners Associations and
property managers
»Residents and members of the
community
»Town staff department heads and
associated engineering consultants
»Local US Army Corp. of Engineers
»Utility providers (electric and water)
»Outer Banks Visitors Bureau
90
Stakeholder input
Walkability
The Town of Duck is very walkable and
pedestrian friendly. It is vital that the
safety of pedestrians and their experi-
ence continues to be prioritized. Cross-
walks are being installed in highly trav-
eled intersections. Restrictive parking
keeps vehicles in the residential areas
while visitors make their way to shops,
dining, and the boardwalk on foot. Sup-
port for recent pedestrian improvements
and the boardwalk is ubiquitous and it
is used as a secondary "main street" for
foot-traffic to businesses oriented to the
Currituck Sound.
Programs and Events
Residents, visitors, and day-trippers trea-
sure the various events and programs
put on by the town. These events build
the community and social fabric, and vol-
unteer events (like the beach re-vegeta-
tion) strengthen coastal environmental
resiliency as well as grow the beauty and
value of the area.
Traffic Congestion
Duck sits just north of the Wright Memo-
rial Bridge, and traffic headed through
town to Corolla often causes significant
congestion, especially during the tourist
season. Highway NC12 is the only road
that passes through the town, which
increases visibility and revenue for busi-
nesses, but also significantly slows traf-
fic through town and disrupts the town
functions.
Public Access to Water
Due primarily to land use decisions made
prior to Duck's incorporation, there are
no public beach access points. The Town
does not currently own or maintain any
beach access points, although most
homes do have access to the ocean,
usually through a shared, private access.
Pedestrian
facilities
Traffic
congestion and
connectivity
Vacation rentals
and housing Village character
Primary stakeholder concerns:
Appendix B: Stakeholder Interviews
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
91
Most of the streets in the town are private
and are designed to serve each neigh-
borhood's respective residents, guests,
and visitors. To some extent this may add
to the town's perception as an exclusive,
destination, resort community. Stakehold-
ers recognize that there is no easy solu-
tion to this lack of public ocean access.
Support may exist for building public
beach access in areas where there has
been repeated storm damages/loss, but
no opportunities are currently identified
and acquisition of property may not be the
only hurdle to overcome. Public access to
the Currituck Sound is much better, and
some interest exists for enhancing that
and creating more connectivity between
docks and businesses.
Housing
Vacation and rental units make up more
than 90% of the housing supply in Duck,
and tourism is the economic driver for
the town. There are still reasonably sized
homes and these quaint beach cottages
help define the character of the town's
residential neighborhoods, and contrib-
ute to its charm. The town has not yet
seen the surge in large square footage,
multi-bedroom (i.e. - 5 or 6+ bedrooms)
vacation rental homes that other towns in
the region have experienced. The town's
reputation and success have contrib-
uted to some expansions of commercial
operations that have begun to infringe on
their residential neighbors. Balancing the
needs of these groups will be a negotia-
tion between close neighbors.
Programs and
events
Balancing uses
and expansions
Stormwater and
flooding
Coastal
resiliency
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
92
Reputation
Duck is recognized nationally (and per-
haps internationally) for its reputation
and the experience that exists only here.
Vacationers and property owners know
that there is something special here that
is not found anywhere else.
Neighborhood Connectivity
The land use decisions made prior to
the town's incorporation have created a
series of disconnected neighborhoods.
This poses challenges for both traffic
congestion as well as EMS/Police/Fire
response. Creating connectivity through
existing neighborhoods and platted lots is
no small feat.
Village Atmosphere
The unique development character and
natural features of the town are the foun-
dation for the "Duck Experience" that
brings visitors from all over. The walkable
village district, restrictions on franchises,
natural vegetation and landscaping, and
local flavor all contribute. Town projects
that enhance the public realm have coor-
dinated with businesses to create an
environment where everyone prospers
and make the town unique from every-
where else on the east coast.
Coastal Vulnerability
Rising seas, subsiding land, higher inten-
sity storms, and erosion are issues that
threaten the very existence of a town
built on a small barrier island bluff. This
changing and sometimes violent environ-
ment has led to community driven efforts
to increase resiliency to these threats,
including a very successful beach nour-
ishment and replanting program. Infra-
structure needs to be prepared for not
only today's storms, but the storms in
the future that may be stronger. Loss of
wetlands on the Sound side of town has
increased vulnerability to storms that
come out of the southwest. Residents
are very keen on finding and imple-
menting measures that will protect their
Appendix B: Stakeholder Interviews
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
93
investment and lifestyle.
Stormwater and flooding
Rising seas are one thing, but the majority
of flooding comes from the increasingly
more intense rain storms and is caus-
ing regular, localized, nuisance flood-
ing. Previous mitigation along Highway
NC12 has been successful, and serves
as a model for partnering with the state.
However, the artificially high water table
created in part by the obligatory use of
septic systems means that there is less
capacity for stormwater to soak into the
ground. Retrofitting stormwater mitiga-
tion measures is further complicated by
the prevalence of private streets, which
leave fewer options for public stormwater
interventions.
Parking
A fine balance exists between wanting to
accommodate more visitors to businesses
and still preserve the walkable experi-
ence of the commercial district. Business
owners and stakeholders recognize that
tradeoffs and compromise are neces-
sary to maintain the success of the vil-
lage. Still, a general feeling pervades that
there may exist room for improvement,
possibly through some type of alternative
small-scale transit opportunities.
Balancing Needs
With tourism as the primary economic
driver, it is important to balance the needs
of residents, business owners, and visi-
tors. The successful commercial district
is also seeking ways to enhance busi-
nesses that sometimes impact the sur-
rounding residential neighborhoods. With
land at a premium, it is important to find
ways to maximize investment as well as
stay good neighbors.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
94
Redevelopment
The majority of the town was already plat-
ted and developed before incorporation.
Combined with the reliance on on-site
septic wastewater treatment, this puts
significant limitations on the potential for
redevelopment to be more dense. Con-
versely, this may be the very factor that
maintains the town's unique character.
Regardless, redevelopment will be the
rule as the town moves forward into the
future.
Tourism
The Visitor's Bureau participates heavily
in local amenity development, including
beach nourishment. Among other priori-
ties, the Bureau wants to grow shoulder
season visitation and income. They also
note the difficulty for workers to find hous-
ing close to their jobs, and the problems
that are associated - traffic congestion,
auto-reliance, etc.
Utilities
Water
The County's maintains a water sup-
ply plan that looks forward 60 years,
and directs investments to maintain that
resource. All water to the town comes
from a pump station to the south, where
a desalinization well is being upgraded
from 10 MGD to 11 MGD. The water tower
in Duck is a one million gallon facility with
approximately 20 years of anticipated
serviceable life remaining from today.
An interconnection between Dare and
Currituck Counties would provide over-
all higher resiliency and redundancy, but
has yet to be achieved. Maintenance of
underground pipes continues to be a con-
cern, especially on the sound side, where
erosion and washout are a concern.
Electric
The nearest electric substation is in Kitty
Hawk. Dominion Power is researching
the impacts expected from the growth
in Corolla, and a possible expansion of
Appendix B: Stakeholder Interviews
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
95
service area to the north. In the future,
if an electric feeder line is brought from
the north it would require a CAMA per-
mit, but could provide additional electric
redundancy for the town. Burying electric
lines is an expensive endeavor that may
increase maintenance costs when shift-
ing sands move or break underground
lines.
USACE Research Facility
The U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers
Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory cur-
rently employs 24 full-time employees
and has plans to expand, including the
addition of an annex building. Due to
the sensitive nature of the research con-
ducted on site, the facility does not pro-
vide public waterfront access and that
status is highly unlikely to change. The
facility location is unique for a federal
research station, and as such is prized.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
CC
97Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Appendix C: SWOT
Analysis
Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, &
Threats (SWOT)
The Council-appointed Advisory Committee is composed of nine community members
of diverse perspectives, appointed by the Duck Town Council. Committee members are
responsible for guiding the plan update process. Committee members gathered together
on May 23rd for a preliminary evaluation and discussion of the community's greatest
assets and weaknesses in order to better understand future threats and opportunities.
During the first Advisory Committee meeting for the Comprehensive and CAMA Land
Use Plan Update, attendees identified the community's Strengths, Weaknesses, Oppor-
tunities, and Threats (SWOT). This conceptual framework is a useful tool for identifying
areas for future exploration and analysis. This coarse tool is just a first cut at describing
the issues within the community. It was very useful in identifying avenues of future inves-
tigation and assessing informational needs that would later be provided by the broader
community.SWOT Analysis
Pros / Positive Cons / Against
Current Strengths Weaknesses
Future Opportunities Threats
SWOT
The SWOT conceptual framework.
98
Strengths are assets that make the town
attractive. Committee members generally
agreed that the greatest strength of the
community is its coastal village charac-
ter and sense of place. This includes the
friendly, community-oriented, small-town
atmosphere.
This is supported by strong community
involvement in town events and planning
efforts. The town's public walkways, board-
walk, and parks are valued as places to
gather, socialize, and connect to nature.
*Strengths with only one vote include:
• controlled development, and
• tax base from residential stock
Strengths
Appendix C: SWOT Analysis
EEnnvviirroonnmmeenntt
CCaappaabbllee aanndd UUnniiffiieedd SSttaaffff
VViissiioonn OOrriieenntteedd
SSttrroonngg SSeennssee ooff CCoommmmuunniittyy
GGrreeaatt BBeeaacchheess
Strong Community Involvement
WWaallkkaabbiilliittyy aanndd AAcccceessssiibbiilliittyy
VViillllaaggee CChhaarraacctteerr
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
Advisory Committee identified issue or agreement
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
99
Weaknesses
Weaknesses are potential issues that are
challenges to be aware of in the planning pro-
cess. An aging demographic and restricted
housing options for workers and their fam-
ilies, space limitations especially relating to
parking and redevelopment, and a perceived
lack of town ordinance enforcement topped
the list. Limits on waterfront access are com-
pounded by land use decisions made prior
to incorporation. Challenges with engaging
and governing in a unique destination/resort
community also were concerns, including
traffic congestion.
*Weaknesses with only one vote include:
• stormwater and flooding
Almost fully 
developed/limited
Absentee Owners/Voters
Traffic Congestion on Hwy 12
Parking
Limits on Ocean/Sound Access
Lack of Ordinance Enforcement
Lack of Workforce & Housing
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
Advisory Committee identified issue or agreement
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
100
Opportunities
Opportunities are a way to protect or
enhance value. The various areas that
emerged included the improvement of
various mobility options, such as achiev-
ing connectivity between subdivisions,
expanding bike lanes, and public trans-
portation. Committee members also value
preserving and enhancing the Duck expe-
rience, through beach nourishment and
sound-side protection, and community
building events. Resilience was also dis-
cussed, which may include storm, flooding,
economic, or other hazards requiring plan-
ning and/or recovery.
*Opportunities with only one vote include:
• housing for workers,
• "go green", and
• grant funding
Appendix C: SWOT Analysis
Preserve/enhance character
More events/community
Manage (re)development
Increase resilience
Improve mobility/connectivity
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
Advisory Committee identified issue or agreement
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
101
Threats
Threats are issues that may need to be
addressed in order to ensure the continu-
ing success of the town. The most pressing
threats are related to environmental haz-
ards such as rising sea levels, damaging
storms, erosion, and flooding, especially to
the town's vulnerable commercial district
near the water. Congestion was also identi-
fied as a major threat.
*Threats with only one vote include:
• a lack of workers,
• commercial encroachment into residen-
tial areas, and
• varying levels of community buy-in from
(often absentee) property owners
Property …
Loss of character
Traffic congestion
Sea level rise
Storms/flooding/erosion
0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90%
Advisory Committee identified issue or agreement
Property
devaluation
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
DD
103Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Process and Results
Over 800 respondents took the online survey to share their backgrounds, perspectives,
concerns, priorities, and experiences. The survey opened July 24th and closed August
23rd. It was available online and in hardcopy format at the Town offices. The relatively
high response rate was likely due to the Town's proactive advertisement and outreach
efforts. In part, the questions were designed based on input and insight gained during the
initial stakeholder interviews and the first Advisory Committee meeting. This allowed the
survey to be tailored to local needs and concerns, and help hone in on key, local issues.
This results from this survey are summarized on the following pages and helped guide
plan development and inquiry by the Advisory Committee. The survey results were also
presented at the first public meeting.
Appendix D: Public
Survey
104
Residency and Relationship to the Town
How do you relate to the town?
(multiple responses were allowed)
Q1:
2%
2%
6%
8%
9%
16%
16%
23%
39%
I own a commercial property in Duck
I live in a rental property in Duck
I own a business in Duck
I am a day-trip visitor to Duck
I work in Duck
I vacation in Duck
Other
I live in Duck and own my residence
I own a long-term or vacation rental property in Duck
Which of these best describes you? (check all that apply)
I own a long-term or vacation
rental property
I live in Duck and own my residence
Other
I work in Duck
I am a day-trip visitor to Duck
I own a business in Duck
I live in a rental property in Duck
I am a commercial property
owner in Duck 2%
2%
6%
8%
9%
16%
16%
23%
39%
I vacation in Duck
“Other” included answers
such as:
1. “Snowbirds”
2. Non-vacation homeowners
(and may plan to retire here)
3. Co-owners or time shares
4. Non-residents that feel
vested in the community
Appendix D: Public Survey
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
105
Do you live in Duck?Q2:
I am a part-time
resident of Duck
(less than 6
months per year)
I am a full-time
year round
resident of Duck
(more than 6 months
per year)
None of the
above
35%
19%
46%
Note: Many of these
respondents do not
live in the town, but
may own property,
work in, or visit Duck.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
106
Priorities
How do you feel about recent changes in Duck?
Majority of respondents like the recent
changes and want to see more:
1. Town programs and events (movies, classes, etc.)
2. Sidewalks in Duck Village
3. Boardwalk improvements and mileage
4. Beach nourishment
Majority of respondents like the recent changes
and are satisfied with maintaining what we have:
1. Town Park and improvements
2. Design, scale, and character of residential and
commercial development in the town
Q3:
How are commercial uses and commercial development
perceived?
72%
18%
7%
3%
Duck has the right amount of
commercial development
Duck has too much commercial
development
I would like to see more commercial
development
No opinion
How do you feel about commercial use/development in Duck?
Duck has the
right amount
of commercial
development
72%
18%
7%3%
Duck has
too much
commercial
development
I would like
to see more
commercial
development
No opinion
Q5:
Appendix D: Public Survey
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
107
How should we accommodate commercial development?
66%
71%
25%22%
17%
31%
7%8%
35%
5%4%
9%
Duck already has enough commercial uses Through redevelopment of existing
commercial properties (esp. in Village area)
At select locations in the northern part of
Duck
How should commercial development be accommodated?
Agree
Neutral
Disagree
No opinion
Duck already
has enough
commercial uses
Through redevelopment
of existing commercial
properties (esp. in
Village area)
At select locations in the
northern part of Duck
What are the top challenges for Duck?Q4:Parking availability Parks and open space Workforce housing ava ila b ility
Eff ective c
om
m
u
ni
c
a
ti
o
n wi
t
h the community1. Traffic
congestion
2. Stormwater and
flooding of streets
3. Vulnerability to (and
recovery from) storms
4. Connectivity and
safety for bicyclists/
pedestrians
P u b l i c w a ter access
De
si
gn,
scale, and character of residential Negative impacts of commercial uses on(b e a c h a nd sound)

development and / or redevelopment adjacent residential neighborhoodsShared priorities
Top Priority
Second Priority
Third Priority
Q6:
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
EE
109Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Engagement format and purpose
Two public open houses were held to gather information and comment from the public.
Public engagement is an integral and valuable component of any planning process and is
also a requirement of a state CAMA land use plan. Public involvement is also an adopted
goal from the Town's 2027 Vision document.
Appendix E: Public
Open Houses
Scenes from the first public open house workshop.
110
Stormwater and Flooding
Recent stormwater projects have addressed some local flooding problems, but storm-
water management can also be combined with parks and water quality improvements.
Treating runoff can also increase local water quality, especially in the Sound.
In Duck, the public water supply and on-site septic treatment results in an artificially ele-
vated local water table which reduces groundwater storage capacity for stormwater. A
GIS-based catchment analysis was created from LIDAR (topographical elevation) data
that showed where rain water would likely flow after falling. Respondents also marked
where flooding occurred in their neighborhoods.
B: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT)
112
Recent stormwater projects have addressed some local flooding problems, but storm-
water management can also be combined with parks and water quality improvements.
Treating runoff can also increase local water quality, especially in the Sound.
Stormwater and Flooding
Would you support
vacant parcels being
converted to stormwater
parks?
Would you support
public easements along
streets for stormwater
management?
(Ditches, pipes, storm drains, etc.)
Would you support water
quality enhancement
projects that treat
stormwater runoff?
(Ponds, infiltration trenches,
wetlands, etc.)
No MaybeYes
No, not
necessary
MaybeYes
No MaybeYes
32
28
34
1
0
0
10
10
5
Last Modified: January 21, 2020 4:48 PM
Stormwater preference questions:
Public Open House Meeting #1
The first was an open workshop-style format where information was gathered from the
community regarding community values, opportunity and problem areas were identified,
and preferences were gauged for certain types of interventions. Results of the public sur-
vey were also on display for review and comment. Members of staff and the consultant
team were on hand to listen, discuss options, and take comment. The Public Open House
was held on September 17, 2019 .
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
111
Access and Open Space
Open space access, rec-
reation, natural views and
landscapes, and water
access all contribute to
the quality of life and are
major tourism drivers.
The northern outer banks
have spectacular natural
open spaces and nat-
ural resources. Attend-
ees were polled on their
perspectives related to
enhancing access to
certain natural assets.
Responses varied by
resource and facilities.
113
Access and Open SpaceAccess to the water is one of the major drivers for residents and tourists alike.
Would you support more
boating access on the
Sound?
Would you support a
boardwalk extension?
Would you support the
town making public
beach access a priority?
Full boat
ramp
No thanksKayak /
Canoe
Southward Happy with
what we have
Northward
Not
necessary
MaybeYes
29
15
9
5
0
49
20
36
5
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Public water access and open space questions:
Connectivity and Congestion
Due to the land use deci-
sions made prior to incor-
poration, the town has a
majority of single access
streets and cul-de-sacs,
which hinders connec-
tivity. Options for new
connections are limited,
and Duck Road is the
only north-south route; it
is the spine of the trans-
portation network. Mul-
timodal transportation
and informal connections
also supplement vehicu-
lar transporation options.
Emergency
vehicle access?
Pedestrians and
bicycles?
Golf carts?
No Depends on
the location
Yes
No, not
necessary
Depends on
the location
Yes
No Depends on
the location
Yes
44
28
4
4
11
42
10
16
9
Connectivity preference questions:
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
112
Natural Resources and
Parks
The town (and especially
the commercial district)
is vulnerable to erosion,
storms, and waves com-
ing from the Currituck
Sound, but restoring
marshland can mitigate
those effects.Pursu-
ing restoration would involve coordinat-
ing with state and possibly also federal
agencies, but could be a win-win for all
involved.
Lived Experience
A place is more than a collection of infrastructure and natural systems; it is also people
and their experiences. In this open-ended exercise attendees were polled on their per-
spective and experience.
Would you support
marsh restoration
on
the Currituck
Sound?
No MaybeYes
54 0 0
Marsh restoration question:
Questions relating to the "Duck Experience" and the importance of
certain local features.
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
6 4
Coastal Village & Shops/Restaurants
16
Quick recovery
from storms
48 8
BothEvents &
Activities Peace & Quiet
17 2
Community-
oriented OR Visitor-
oriented
8 10
the Beach OR the Sound
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
113
3
Public meeting attendees were polled as to which of the Town's adopted goals ( ) meant
the most to them individually.
Duck Core Vision
In 2027, the Town of Duck, North Carolina, is a
thriving coastal community. We respect and value our
delicate, yet dynamic barrier island environment --
clean waters and beaches, maritime forests, wetlands,
and dunescapes . Residents and visitors alike are drawn
to neighborhoods that reflect our small town
atmosphere. Our village is a source of pride, offering
diverse experiences by way of a cohesive and eclectic
mix of independent businesses, shops, and restaurants.
At the hub of our community is the Town Hall and
Park, where we interact, share ideas, and build
connections. Duck’s vitality, founded on grassroots
engagement, encourages meaningful participation from
all of its stakeholders. Long -term financial stability,
sustainable services, measured growth and a focus on
quality of life distinguish Duck as a preeminent
destination for everyone.
Duck is a community that expresses its beliefs in certain
unifying principles:
TOWN OF DUCK,
NORTH CAROLINA
Surrounded by our residential neighborhoods, Duck
Village is the heart of Duck. Our collection of small
shops, restaurants, offices, parks and boardwalks
combine to shape the Duck experience. The
development of the Village has a coastal residential
style and scale and its continuity creates an energetic
and walkable experience. Our quality of life is
enhanced through innovative solutions that protect
and preserve the Village's unique character and
environment.
The business community plays an
essential role in creating the
Duck experience.A high level of
collaboration and coordination
ensures that we have a vibrant
town where each and every
individual can enjoy the
recreation,arts,music,shopping,
dining,and lodging unique to
Duck.
Duck is built on participation .We are an inclusive
community that welcomes and embraces the
diversity,talents,and expertise of all of our
stakeholders .Pride and ownership is felt by all who
live,work,and visit here.People feel connected by a
shared motivation to preserve the unique nature of
this special place.
Duck is a pedestrian first community that is safe and
easy to navigate by walking and cycling. Our multi-
use trail, sidewalks, soundside boardwalk, and
beach provide a variety of ways to explore and
discover Duck. Collaboration with various
organizations enables us to optimize our traffic
flow in our unique seasonal environment.
There is a conscious respect for
Duck’s fragile and extraordinary
environment.We protect and
preserve opportunities for our
residents and visitors to enjoy our
ocean,sound,and natural coastal
habitats .We value our pristine,
safe,uninterrupted beaches,which
are our most valuable asset.Our
resilience and adaptability,guided
by environmental awareness and
forward thinking,ensure our
sustainability as a community.
Duck maintains a responsive and responsible
government.Council,staff,and the community work
together to offer high quality services intended to add
value to the entire Town .We have an educated,
experienced and motivated staff empowered to execute
the Town’s objectives .Duck is an innovative and
respected leader within the Outer Banks region and its
solutions are frequently emulated by others.Continuity
of leadership preserves our established values and
vision .
DUCK AND OUR VILLAGE
ACTIVEENGAGEDCOMMUNITY
VIBRANT THRIVINGBUSINESSCOMMUNITY
ENHANCEDMOVEABILITY
ENVIRONMENTALSTEWARDSHIP
RESPONSIVERESPONSIBLELEADERSHIP
Community Vision and Goals
8 7
4 13
16
Active Engaged
Community
Responsive
Responsible
Leadership
Duck and our
Village
Enhanced
Moveability
Enhanced
Moveability
Environmental
Stewardship
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
114
Public Feedback
The following images show the responses to the preference boards at the meeting in
September 17, 2019.
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
115Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
116
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
117Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
118
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
119Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
120
Public Open House
Meeting #2
The second public open house meeting
was held on March 3rd, 2020, after the
plan was published on the Town's web-
site online for public review. This meet-
ing at Town Hall was an opportunity to
gather more public comment on the final
draft of the plan prior to it being reviewed
by elected and appointed officials. The
meeting format included a presentation
of plan highlights followed by open ques-
tion-and-answer with Town staff and facil-
itators. Comments were collected (both
that evening and online for a one-month
period) and delivered to the Advisory
Committee for their review and determi-
nation if the draft plan required any fur-
ther revisions prior to moving forward in
the plan adoption process. The Advisory
Committee
met on May 14, discussed public com-
ment received to date, and recommended
revisions that were incorporated prior to
the plan proceeding to Planning Board
and Town Council for the public review
and adoption process.
Appendix E: Public Open Houses
Scenes from the second public open house workshop.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
121
Protect and preserve Duck’s coastal
residential character.
• Closely protect the character of existing single
family neighborhoods as well as multi-family
enclaves through the adoption and enforcement of appropriate development standards.
• Enhance the town’s reputation as a
family-oriented tourist destination.
• Support legislation providing local governments
with tools to protect and enhance the scale
and character of development in Duck.
Engage in efforts to improve local
flooding and stormwater management.
• Develop solutions to flooding and
stormwater management along Duck
Road and throughout town.
• Coordinate with and reduce barriers for
residents and outside agencies trying to address
local flooding and stormwater concerns.
• Ensure any stormwater or flooding solutions do
not negatively impact water quality or negatively
impact shared resources such as the beach.
• Reduce runoff through minimizing impervious
surface coverage, encourging tree preservation,
and accommodating low impact development
solutions to stormwater management.
• Maintain, protect, and (where possible) enhance
water quality in all coastal wetlands and estuaries.
Landscaped retention ponds and swales collect and treat stormwater and can also function as parks or amenities.
Source: Figure from Tilley, E., Ulrich, L., Lüthi, C., Reymond, Ph. and Zurbrügg, C., 2014. Compendium of Sanitation Systems and Technologies. 2nd Revised Edition. Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag). Dübendorf, Switzerland.
A constructed wetland can treat
stormwater runoff before it pollutes
local surface waters.
PLAN HIGHLIGHTS
Cooperate with the Sanderling Resort to encourage a distinct,
pedestrian-friendly commercial and mixed use node that
reinforces local character, history, and current user needs.
Continue to increase pedestrian access, circulation networks, safety, and comfort.The Sanderling is a well-known coastal vacation destination and resort community.
Caffey's lifesaving station. Source: Historic Architecture Research. Project Records (UA110.041), Special Collections Research Center at NC State University Libraries.
Encourage connections between neighborhoods for pedestrians,
cyclists, and vehicles (especially emergency vehicles).
Pass-thru’s between neighborhoods can be simple and unobtrusive.
Knockdown bollards can exclude cars (and potentially also
golf carts) while allowing EMS access when necessary.
Giant Swallowtail (Papilio cresphontes), a state
rare species. Source: Wikipedia
Continue habitat preservation
and landscaping site
development standards.
• Preserve and protect remaining
stands of intact maritime forests.
• Protect sea turtles and other aquatic, amphibious, and beach-
reliant animals and their habitat.Kemp's Ridley sea turtle, an endangered species. Photo credit: NOAA Fisheries
Approx. extent of beach noruishment programImprove the community's resiliency
to rising seas and changing climate.
• Evaluate existing freeboard requirements and
other development standards and determine
potential benefits of increasing them.
• Research and adopt an anticipated level
of sea rise for future years relevant to
development projects of varying time horizons (e.g. - 20 years, 50 years, 100 years).
Resilient regulation
When renovating, maintaining, or building new
infrastructure, consideration should be given to the
Source: Adapted for Town of Duck from the NYC Mayor's Office of Recovery and Resiliency, Climate Resiliency Design Guidelines - Version 3.0 (March 2019) and using Intermediate High scenario sea level rise projections from NOAA SLR Viewer, https://coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr.
Example of additional elevation for structures and infrastructure in order to mitigate the projected impacts of Sea Level Rise (SLR)
Infrastructure lifespan and anticipated SLR Project type Examples of infrastructure or site elements that should be elevated, enhanced, or armored
Present day to 2040 or 1.74 feet of SLR
Temporary or short-lifespan compo-nents and finishings
• Asphalt pavement, pavers, ROW finishes• Trees, plantings, green infrastructure, and LID site elements• Street furniture, benches, trash cans, etc.• Temporary buildings• Storage facilities
2040 to 2060 or 3.05 feet of SLR
Moderate lifespan facility improvements and components on a regular replacement schedule
• Electrical, HVAC, and mechanical components, compressors, lifts, pumps, etc.• Concrete paving, retaining walls, culverts• Outdoor recreational facilities• Emergency energy generation equipment• Stormwater detention facilities
2060-2100+ or 6.76 feet of SLR
Long-lived buildings and infrastructure and other assets that cannot be relocated or elevated without highly significant investment
• Most buildings and signature or monumental structures• Major infrastructure (bridges, wastewater treatment plants, etc.)• Road reconstruction and road elevations• Subgrade sewer infrastructure (pipes, outfalls, catch basins, etc.)• Energy generation and transmission facilities
Create a Climate Adaptation Plan, including
explicit identification and assessment of
vulnerabilities, prioritization of adaptation/
mitigation projects and actions (with
probable costs), and establishment of
timelines for implementation.
Observed sea levels near Duck have risen an average of:
1.82 inches per decade at Duck USACE station, since 1978
Source: NOAA tide gauge data
1.85 inches per decade at Oregon inlet, since 1977
1.83 inches per decade at Sewell's Point, VA since 1927
Timeline and height of
projected sea level rise
Global emissions scenario:
Intermediate High
2 feet of sea level rise projected by...2055 2035
4 feet of sea level rise projected by...2090 2060
Source: NOAA Sea Level Rise Viewer, https://
coast.noaa.gov/digitalcoast/tools/slr
Adapt to rising seas.
• Coordinate with Dare County in community-wide septic system monitoring,
remediation, and continuity of operations planning.
• Coordinate with Dare County Environmental Health Department to develop
an enhanced monitoring and remediation program for septic drain fields
that are vulnerable to malfunction due to high water tables.
If septic systems are not properly maintained or lack adequate separation from ground water, they can transmit insufficiently
treated wastewater into nearby water bodies. This nutrient pollution can lead to excessive algae growth and degradation of
the waters that support local quality of life, economy, and property values.
Source: Septic Systems Vulnerable to Sea Level Rise (Nov. 2018), Miami-Dade County, FL (Dr. Samir Elmir)
12
Figure 4: How rising groundwater can compromise septic systems

12
Figure 4: How rising groundwater can compromise septic systems

Recommendation summary board that was on display at the second public open house workshop.
Duck Village
The social and cultural heart of the town is embodied by its commercial coastal village: a mix of pedestrian-oriented uses with civic space and all the retail, services, and recreational
amenities of a small coastal town.
Commercial Recreation
These commercial areas cater to destination-oriented traffic and accommodate recreational and tourist-oriented uses as well as restaurants and other social activity.
Resort Mixed Use
This distinctive area stretches from ocean to sound and comprises a mix of uses necessary
to support a destination resort, including a resort hotel, resort-related offices and services, attached residential, restaurants, recreational amenities and classes, and occasional special events.
Conservation & Civic
These are largely undeveloped areas that support conservation of natural resources or as
refuges for local wildlife. They may also house natural resource-dependent facilities or civic uses. The beach, dunes, and open water in the Atlantic and Sound are included.
Cottage Residential
Single family detached homes are the predominant land cover in town, which includes year-
round residences, vacation homes, and shorter term rentals, as well as associated amenities (community facilities, docks, beach walkways, boat launches, etc.) This relaxed residential
character remains fairly distinct from neighboring towns by virtue of it's coziness, low density,
and abundant natural vegetation.
Compact ResidentialThese limited areas of attached residential housing have associated open spaces or community amenities and smoothly transition to the surrounding neighborhoods through design and
landscaping.
Boardwalk DistrictThe Duck boardwalk is the town's second main street, opening to vibrant storefronts on one side and to beautiful views of the Currituck Sound on the other. The boardwalk is used for exercise, relaxation,
shopping, recreation, and more.
Future Land Use Character Area Descriptions
Continue coordination with USACE to facilitate
operational success at the field station.
• Enhance and support police, fire, and public safety initiatives
• Expand/Rebuild the Fire and Police Department building on the USACE
property and restore the previous site to its predevelopment condition.Approx. extent of beach noruishment programEnhance the character and success
of Duck Village and commercial
areas
• Support the development of small,
specialty-type shops and the vitality
of existing, local businesses.
• Work with local businesses and
redevelopment projects to coordinate
adequate (and sometimes shared)
parking and loading/off-loading areas.
• Refine the Duck Village aesthetic through
public investments and meaningful,
objective, and administratively-
administered standards and incentives.
• Coordinate with other commercial uses
to enhance access and appearance.
This standalone building with its inviting facade is an example of the Village vernacular.
The Cotton Gin represents the local architectural
typology for standalone buildings.
Maintain a connected and
accessible local government
• Encourage and provide high quality, event programming at Duck Town Hall, Duck Town
Park, and Town Green and amphitheater.
• Provide frequent, current, and high-quality communication between
government and citizens.
• Pursue innovative visitor and resident communication that enhances public
safety and awareness of local traffic
rules, precautions, and conditions.
Events on the lawn are a big part of Duck’s identity.
Preserve, protect, and restore the
Currituck Sound shoreline.
• Conserve and maintain
the wetlands and other coastal features for their
natural storm protection
functions, water quality
benefits, habitat value,
innate beauty, and
recreational value.
• Restore eroded portions of
Currituck Sound coastline
to enhance buffering
of storm-driven waves, reduce erosive forces,
increase stormwater
runoff filtration, improve
water quality, and
enhance coastal habitat.
Restoration on the Currituck Sound might
involve natural wave breaks or living shorelines with backfilled coastal marsh. This would
replace wetlands previously lost to erosion,
and could also treat stormwater runoff from
roads and neighborhoods. The resultant
increased water quality would benefit
submerged ecosystems and habitat, including
submerged aquatic vegetation.
Rebuilding coastal marsh may require filling some open water habitat, but resultant marshland would provide coastal habitat and storm-
protection ecosystem services. Source: www.audubon.org/magazine/fall-2017/louisiana-restoring-its-barrier-islands-defend
Preserve, protect, and enhance the
Atlantic Ocean Shoreline.
• Conserve and maintain barrier dunes,
beaches, and other coastal features for their natural storm protection functions and
their innate beauty and recreational value.
• Remain open to partnerships and opportunities for increasing public access to the ocean.
• Renourish and maintain the beach.
• Preserve the natural value and ecosystem services of the beach and dunes.
Dunes help protect from damaging storm-driven waves, and are built through the complex interactions of sand, water, and wind.
Image from: The Dune Book, NC Sea Grant, 2003.
Sand fencing and dune plantings help trap windblown
sand and rebuild dunes.
Recent beach erosion from coastal storms.
Promote and enhance Duck
Road, Duck Trail, and the
pedestrian experience,
including connections to the
Currituck Sound.
• Maintain existing improvements and enhance opportunities for
pedestrian, bicycle, and other
forms of transportation in Duck.
• Explore opportunities to extend
the Duck Boardwalk or other
pedestrian connection northward
to the next commercial cluster.
• Add new connections between adjacent
businesses and the Duck Boardwalk.
• Add new kayak launches or boat docking
opportunities along the Boardwalk.
• Within the Village, expand the
sidewalk network for the length
of one lot off of the Duck Road
corridor, to reduce potential conflicts
between pedestrians and vehicles
turning onto or off of Duck Road,
and enhance pedestrian connections
to structures along the corridor.
Extending the sidewalk network just
the depth
of one lot off of NC 12 can reduce
pedestrian-automobile conflicts due to
vehicles turning off of the highway.
Existing sidewalk
minimizes conflicts.
Example of proposed
sidewalk addition.
The boardwalk experience includes: window shopping and display of wares, outdoor/patio dining, interaction between businesses
and the boardwalk, wayfinding signage, and recreational opportunities.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
FF
123Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Building on previous efforts
No planning effort occurs in a vacuum, and it is important to recognize and assess
previous efforts to determine effectiveness and opportunities for future improvement. This
appendix compiles the reviews of those previous planning efforts, which were presented
by town staff to the advisory committee and used as background for developing this plan
update. The Town of Duck's existing land development management program includes
the following regulatory ordinances and related plans:
»Town of Duck Zoning Ordinance
»Community Development Management Program
»Duck CAMA Core Land Use Plan (2005)
»Town of Duck Comprehensive Pedestrian Plan
»Town of Duck 2027 Vision Plan (Comprehensive Plan)
»Dare County Hazard Mitigation Plan
»Dare County Comprehensive Transportation Plan
The Town's land development management program is administered by the Duck
Department of Community Development.
The Duck Planning Board serves in an advisory capacity to the Town Council on
development matters.
Appendix F: Existing
Plan Review
124
Plan Assessment: Town of
Duck 2007 CAMA Land Use
Plan
IMPLEMENTATION STATUS REPORT
(2019)
I. All local, state, federal, and joint actions
that have been undertaken successfully
to implement its certified CAMA land use
plan
CAMA Management Topics
Public Access – strategies for maximizing
community access to beaches and public
trust areas.
1. Partnered with Dare County and
several other towns on the Outer Banks
on a beach/dune nourishment project
covering approximately 1.7 miles of the
beach and dune system in Duck.
2. Annually coordinate a volunteer
beach grass planting program to stabi-
lize dunes around neighborhood beach
accessways.
3. Annually contract to provide life-
guard services at twelve strategic loca-
tions along the public beach.
4. Acquired and developed approxi-
mately 9.4 acres of land on the Currituck
Sound with a Town administration build-
ing, meeting hall, stage, amphitheater,
parking areas, and public park.
5. Constructed three phases of a
soundside boardwalk (totaling 0.8 mile)
providing public views and access to
Currituck Sound. The boardwalk includes
two piers/boat docks, kayak launch, and
crabbing dock.
Land Use Compatibility – management
of land use and development in a way
that minimizes its primary and second-
ary impacts on natural and man-made
resources.
1. Adopted a 2027 Vision outlining
the Town’s goal of maintaining its small-
town atmosphere, low density neighbor-
hoods, and commercial village with a mix
of independent shops and restaurants.
2. Amended Town development stan-
dards in keeping with the goal of main-
taining the community’s relatively low
density residential and village-scale com-
mercial development.
3. Evaluate and reference the com-
patibility the CAMA Land Use Plan during
the review of every development project,
rezoning, and text amendment consid-
ered by the Town.
4. Adopted specific standards to
ensure the village scale, pedestrian ori-
entation, and compatibility of develop-
ment within Duck Village.
5. Adopted standards for filling and
grading activities that limit the amount
of fill, stormwater runoff, and erosion/
sedimentation.
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity
– strategies to ensure that infrastruc-
ture is available to support anticipated
and planned development and that it is
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
125
managed to protect areas of environmen-
tal concern and other fragile areas.
1. Coordinated with local and State
agencies on the review and approval of
proposed development projects to ensure
that infrastructure standards are met and
capacity is not exceeded.
2. Established relatively low-density
residential zoning and large minimum
lot sizes to ensure capacity for individual
wastewater (septic) systems.
3. Adopted standards limiting the max-
imum size of residences and septic sys-
tem capacity to limit development density
and its impacts on local infrastructure.
4. Conducted a thorough study and
adopted standards permitting solar and
wind energy facilities as renewable
energy sources.
5. Completed five significant projects
to address recurring stormwater man-
agement issues along Duck Road (N.C.
Highway 12) and the Duck Trail shared
use path.
6. Developed and adopted a Compre-
hensive Pedestrian Plan for the Town of
Duck.
7. Participated in the creation and
adoption of the Dare County Comprehen-
sive Transportation Plan.
8. Served as an active member of the
Albemarle Regional Planning Organiza-
tion on regional transportation issues.
9. Constructed a 0.8 mile soundside
boardwalk over three phases as a trans-
portation alternative and recreational
amenity for the Town.
10. Constructed the first two phases
of sidewalk and bike lane improvements
through Duck Village.
11. Completing design and permitting
for a third phase of sidewalk and bike
lane improvements through the northern
portion of Duck Village.
12. Annually maintain and repair sec-
tions of the existing Duck Trail shared
use path along Duck Road.
Natural Hazard Areas – policies to
reduce the community’s vulnerability to
natural hazards.
1. Adopted and enforce FEMA flood
maps and a flood damage prevention
ordinance meeting all requirements of
State and federal agencies.
2. Adopted a multi-jurisdictional Haz-
ard Mitigation Plan in cooperation with
other communities in Dare County and
the Albemarle Region identifying solu-
tions to reduce the risks to human life
and property from natural hazards. This
plan is currently in the process of being
updated.
3. Completed a project with the
National Oceanic & Atmospheric Admin-
istration (NOAA) and N.C. Division of
Coastal Management to develop a resil-
iency plan for the Town of Duck.
4. Obtained a CAMA planning grant
and contracted with the Program for the
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
126
Study of Developed Shorelines at West-
ern Carolina University to complete a vul-
nerability assessment for the Town.
5. Supported efforts by the Audu-
bon Society to obtain funding to conduct
environmental assessments and gauge
changing conditions in Currituck Sound.
6. Implement a public information
strategy outlining many projects and
activities to educate residents, visitors,
and businesses about the risks of flood-
ing and other natural hazards, as well
as opportunities to prevent or minimize
damage during these events.
7. Prepare and review an Emergency
Preparedness, Response, and Recovery
Plan on an annual basis.
8. Adopted and enforce policies and
regulations that limit the scale and inten-
sity of development in hazard prone
areas.
9. Required a land disturbance permit
regulating vegetation removal, grading,
erosion, and stormwater issues on devel-
oping properties.
10. Adopted stormwater management
standards to minimize the impacts of com-
mercial and other higher intensity devel-
opment on the surrounding environment.
11. Adopted ordinances requiring
greater setbacks for beachfront acces-
sory structures, prohibiting the use of
sandbags to artificially stabilize dunes or
structures, limitations on beach pushes,
and prohibition of hardened beach access
structures in the beach nourishment area.
12. Partnered with Dare County and
several other towns on the Outer Banks
on a beach/dune nourishment project
covering approximately 1.7 miles of the
beach and dune system in Duck in 2017.
The Town is already engaging with these
communities on studies and arrange-
ments for a potential beach renourish-
ment project in the future.
13. Conduct numerous public educa-
tion efforts using educational brochures,
website pages, newsletter articles, vid-
eos, and other programs to educate
property owners about topics such as
water quality, stormwater management,
flood damage prevention, and dune
stabilization.
14. Conduct an annual dune plant-
ing project (sea oats and beach grass)
to stabilize the primary dune throughout
the Town of Duck. This funded effort has
been supplemented by a volunteer beach
grass planting program.
15. Provide “dune care” signs to neigh-
borhoods to post at community beach
access walkways along the primary
oceanfront dune and “keep off the dune”
signs along the oceanfront.
Water Quality – land use and develop-
ment policies and strategies to protect
quality waters and to restore quality in
waters that are non-supporting.
1. Constructed five significant storm-
water management improvements along
Duck Road (N.C. Highway 12) in the
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
127
areas of Tuckahoe Drive, The Waterfront
Shops, South Snow Geese Drive, Sound
Sea Village, and Flight Drive.
2. Participate in the Science Panel
of the Alliance to Revive the Currituck
Sound, seeking ways to improve the
water quality and health of the Currituck
Sound.
3. Coordinated with the U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers to conduct water
quality testing in the Currituck Sound.
4. Educated local residents and visi-
tors about the importance of water quality
through “Nature on the Boardwalk” tours
that included water quality sampling.
5. Supported efforts by the Audubon
Society to establish the Audubon Resil-
ience Institute and obtain funding to con-
duct environmental assessments and
gauge changing conditions in Currituck
Sound.
Local Issues:
In addition to the CAMA Management
Topics, the Town of Duck identified 23
local development issues that were incor-
porated into the adopted land use plan.
Atlantic Ocean Shoreline
1. Partnered with Dare County and
several other towns on the Outer Banks
on a beach/dune nourishment project
re-establishing approximately 1.7 miles
of beach and dune system in Duck.
2. Contract the planting of sea oats
and beach grass on an annual basis to
help stabilize the dune system. This
effort is supplemented by a volunteer
beach grass planting program involving
over 130 different community volunteers.
3. Annually contract to provide life-
guard services at twelve strategic loca-
tions along the public beach.
4. Negotiated beach access for life-
guards across two privately owned
properties
5. Participate in the Dare County
Shoreline Management Commission,
which oversees and advocates for the
preservation and restoration of shorelines.
6. Employ a Local Permit Officer to
enforce CAMA regulations and assist the
N.C. Division of Coastal Management
and local property owners with the CAMA
permitting process.
7. Adopted ordinances requiring
greater setbacks for beachfront acces-
sory structures, prohibiting the use of
sandbags to artificially stabilize dunes or
structures, and limiting the use of hard-
ened beach access structures.
8. Adopted ordinances that prohibit
beach fires, fireworks, and commercial
activities on the beach.
Beach Driving
1. Adopted an ordinance setting stan-
dards for beach driving and limiting beach
driving to the months between October
1st and April 30th every year.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
128
Beach Renourishment and Maintenance
1. Partnered with Dare County and
several other towns on the Outer Banks
on a beach/dune nourishment project
covering approximately 1.7 miles of the
beach and dune system in Duck.
2. Contract the planting of sea oats
and beach grass on an annual basis to
help stabilize the dune system. This
effort is supplemented by a volunteer
beach grass planting program involving
over 130 different community volunteers.
3. Provide property owners, resi-
dents, visitors, and management compa-
nies with information about maintaining
the constructed beach and dune system.
Commercial Development
1. Adopted standards to ensure the
village scale, pedestrian orientation, and
compatibility of commercial development
within Duck Village.
2. Reviewing commercial develop-
ment standards for the Village Commer-
cial district to provide flexibility for busi-
nesses to develop uniquely sized and
shaped properties in a manner consistent
with the character of Duck Village.
3. Partnered with the Duck Merchants
Association to market and support local
businesses in Duck. Such efforts include
the development of a website, brochures,
and signage.
Community Appearance
1. Adopted design guidelines for
commercial buildings, utilities, lighting,
and landscaping.
2. Adopted standards to ensure the
village scale, pedestrian orientation, and
compatibility of commercial development
within Duck Village.
3. Adopted standards limiting the
maximum size of residences and septic
system capacity depending on lot sizes
to ensure compatible development in res-
idential areas.
4. Adopted development require-
ments to preserve and/or plant trees and
vegetation on every property.
Currituck Sound Shoreline
1. Hired a Local Permit Officer to
enforce CAMA regulations and assist the
N.C. Division of Coastal Management
and local property owners with the CAMA
permitting process.
2. Adopted standards for filling and
grading activities that limit the amount
of fill, stormwater runoff, and erosion/
sedimentation.
3. Designed and engineered a marsh
restoration project in the Currituck Sound
along the Town Park property to stabilize
the shoreline and serve as a pilot proj-
ect for other soundfront improvements in
Duck.
4. Participated in the Science Panel
of the Alliance to Revive the Currituck
Sound, seeking ways to improve the
water quality and health of the Currituck
Sound.
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
129
Development Design Standards
1. Adopted design guidelines for com-
mercial buildings, utilities, lighting, and
landscaping.
Duck Trail
1. Maintain and repair sections of the
approximately 5.4 mile Duck Trail shared
use path along Duck Road on an annual
basis.
2. Completed six projects to address
recurring stormwater management issues
along the Duck Trail shared use path.
3. Designed and permitted a planned
project involving the construction of side-
walks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian
improvements throughout Duck Village.
4. Constructed the first two phases
of sidewalk and bike lane improvements
through Duck Village.
5. Completing design and permitting
for a third phase of sidewalk and bike
lane improvements through the northern
portion of Duck Village.
Federal Properties
1. Coordinated projects and improve-
ments (including beach nourishment)
with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Field Research Facility.
2. Negotiated with the USACE to
lease additional property to house an
expansion of the existing public safety
(Fire/Police) building on the USACE Field
Research Facility property.
3. Obtained beach access for life-
guards and public safety staff through the
USACE Field Research Facility site.
Intergovernmental Relations
1. Entered into a mutual aid agree-
ment between the Duck Fire Department
and surrounding communities on the
Outer Banks including all municipalities,
Dare County, and several departments in
Currituck County.
2. Entered into a mutual aid agree-
ment between the Duck Police Depart-
ment, other town police departments, and
the Dare County Sheriff’s Department.
3. Established a reciprocal agree-
ment with the towns of Kitty Hawk and Kill
Devil Hills to provide building inspection
services.
4. Participated in a statewide mutual
aid agreement with communities across
North Carolina for disaster assistance
and recovery.
5. Partnered with other local and
regional governments on a variety of
planning efforts – solid waste, hazard mit-
igation, flood damage prevention, trans-
portation, etc.
6. Partnered with Dare County and
several other towns on the Outer Banks
on construction of a beach/dune nourish-
ment project covering all or parts of four
towns.
Overhead Utility Lines
1. Successfully negotiated with
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
130
Dominion Energy to remove several sec-
tions of overhead utility lines along Cur-
rituck Sound.
2. Coordinated with Dominion Energy
to main and improve the location of
underground power lines in the area of
the Town’s sidewalk improvements.
Parking and Loading/Off-Loading
Areas
1. Constructed a large public parking
area adjoining the Town Park and board-
walk access.
2. Adopted standards in the Village
Commercial district permitting flexi-
ble parking layouts and shared parking
arrangements.
Public Safety
1. Added full-time and part-time
staff to the Duck Fire Department, most
recently with the addition of three new
full-time firefighters in FY 2018-19.
2. Added full-time and part-time staff
to the Duck Police Department, most
recently with the addition of two full-time
police officers in the FY 2018-19.
3. Increased the number of lifeguard
stands and staffing for contracted life
guard services to address increased
public beach usage during the summer
months.
4. Conducted a space needs study,
conceptual architectural plan, site plans,
and environmental studies for the con-
struction of a new, larger Public Safety
Building housing the Fire, Police, and
Ocean Safety departments. Funding has
been approved to complete the design,
engineering, and permitting for this
project.
Redevelopment
1. Adopted standards to ensure that
redevelopment is consistent with the
scale and character of existing develop-
ment in the surrounding area.
2. Mitigate flooding issues by requir-
ing substantial renovations to be brought
into compliance with flood damage pre-
vention standards.
Residential Development
1. Amended Town development stan-
dards in keeping with the goal of main-
taining the community’s relatively low
density, residential scale of development.
2. Adopted relatively large minimum
lot size standards to maintain the exist-
ing character of the Town and ensure
capacity for individual wastewater (sep-
tic) systems.
3. Adopted standards limiting the
maximum size of residences and septic
system capacity depending on lot sizes
to maintain the existing character of the
Town and limit development density.
4. Established provisions for the
development of accessory dwelling units
to allow housing that can serve moderate
income persons.
Septic Tank Use
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
131
1. Coordinated all permitting activi-
ties with the Dare County Environmental
Health Department.
2. Established relatively low-density
residential zoning and relatively large
minimum lot sizes to ensure capacity for
individual wastewater (septic) systems.
3. Adopted standards limiting the
maximum size of residences and septic
system capacity depending on lot sizes
to maintain the existing character of the
Town and limit development density.
Sexually Oriented Businesses
1. Adopted an ordinance limiting
potential locations and addressing the
community’s concerns about sexually ori-
ented businesses.
Solid Waste Management
1. Adopted a ten-year Solid Waste
Management Plan in cooperation with
other communities in Dare County.
2. Contract with a private firm to
provide curbside trash and recycling
pick-up and disposal. Such services
are increased as the Town’s population
increases during the summer months.
3. Entered into a partnership with
Dare County and the Town of Kitty Hawk
to allow Duck residents to dispose of
large waste items at the recycling center
in Kitty Hawk.
Stormwater Management
1. Adopted stormwater management
standards to minimize the impacts of com-
mercial and other higher intensity devel-
opment on the surrounding environment.
2. Completed six significant projects
to address recurring stormwater man-
agement issues along Duck Road (N.C.
Highway 12) and the Duck Trail shared
use path.
Tourism
1. Adopted village development stan-
dards and added pedestrian improve-
ments to enhance Duck Village as a tour-
ist destination for shopping, eating, and
recreation.
2. Host over 90 public events (con-
certs, movies, performances, and pre-
sentations) a year at the gazebo on the
Town Green and in the Amphitheater at
the Town Park. These events drew over
20,000 attendees to Duck in 2018.
3. Established the Duck Jazz Festival
and 4th of July Parade as major events
drawing many thousands of visitors to
Duck.
Town Commons Area
1. Acquired and developed nearly 9.4
acres of land on the Currituck Sound with
a Town administration building, meeting
hall, public park, entertainment facilities,
and parking area.
2. Host over 90 public events (con-
certs, movies, performances, and pre-
sentations) a year at the gazebo on the
Town Green and in the Amphitheater at
the Town Park.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
132
Transportation
1. Developed and adopted a Compre-
hensive Pedestrian Plan for the Town of
Duck.
2. Participated in the creation and
adoption of the Dare County Comprehen-
sive Transportation Plan.
3. Participated in the creation and
adoption of the Albemarle Regional Bicy-
cle Plan.
4. Serve as active members of the
Albemarle Regional Planning Organiza-
tion prioritizing transportation projects
and studying regional transportation
issues.
5. Constructed a 0.8 mile soundside
boardwalk over three phases as a trans-
portation alternative and recreational
amenity for the Town.
6. Maintained and repaired sections
of the existing Duck Trail shared use path
along Duck Road.
7. Designed and permitted a planned
project involving the construction of side-
walks, crosswalks, and other pedestrian
improvements throughout Duck Village.
8. Constructed the first two phases
of sidewalk and bike lane improvements
through Duck Village.
9. Completing design and permitting
for a third phase of sidewalk and bike
lane improvements through the northern
portion of Duck Village.
Uses of and Activities In and On Ocean
and Sound Waters
1. Created a special Ocean and
Sound overlay zoning district extending
1,000 feet from the shoreline that sets
standards for activities within the por-
tions of the Atlantic Ocean and Currituck
Sound that abut the Town of Duck.
II. Any actions that have been delayed
and reasons for the delay
1. The Town contracted with an engi-
neering firm to conduct a preliminary study
for potential bicycle/pedestrian improve-
ments along the west side of Duck Road.
Due to the physical constraints and sig-
nificant costs identified by the study, the
Town has not subsequently proceeded
with this project.
2. The Town ceased pursuing a full
marsh restoration project in the Currituck
Sound along the Town Park property when
concerns were raised by the Fish & Wild-
life Service about potential impacts on
submerged aquatic vegetation (although
an invasive species) in the project area.
A scaled-down project featuring sills may
be considered over the next couple of
years.
3. The placement of additional utility
lines underground has been limited due
to the significant cost of such improve-
ments that would have to be borne by the
Town.
III. Any unforeseen land use issues
that have arisen since certification of
the CAMA land use plan
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
133
1. Pending revisions to FEMA flood
insurance rate maps suggest that nearly
80% of properties will be removed from
SFHA flood zones. This change has led
to the need for greater public education
about flood damage prevention and the
development of higher flood prevention
standards in the areas affected by the
changes.
2. Completion of the beach nour-
ishment project and establishment of a
static vegetation line within the beach
nourishment project area have changed
the manner in which the Town regulates
development in this area.
3. The Town has seen an influx of
businesses seeking to engage in outdoor
entertainment activities. The Town has
faced the challenge of accommodating
changing business practices while pre-
serving the character and environment of
Duck Village.
4. Construction of the public board-
walk and sidewalks has led to increased
emphasis on encouraging bicycle and
pedestrian access to local businesses.
IV. Consistency of existing land use
and development ordinances with cur-
rent CAMA land use plan policies
1. The Town of Duck has closely fol-
lowed the goals, policies, and objectives
of the adopted CAMA Land Use Plan. As
mentioned previously, compatibility with
the land use plan has been evaluated
during the review of every development
project, rezoning, and text amendment
considered by the Town. Many of the
current Town ordinances were adopted
in an effort to support the goals, policies,
and objectives found in the CAMA Land
Use Plan. Among many benefits, these
ordinances help preserve the Town’s rel-
atively low-density residential character,
limit development’s impact on the envi-
ronment, and minimize property damage
during storms.
ACTION PLAN
ACTION ITEM 1: Develop, adopt, and
implement sound and ocean zoning
overlays.
Complete. Ordinance adopted in 2007.
ACTION ITEM 2: Develop, adopt,
and implement village commercial
development
zoning options.
Complete. Ordinance adopted in 2004.
ACTION ITEM 3: Develop, adopt, and
implement commercial development/
building
design guidelines and standards.
Complete. Design standards adopted in
2004.
ACTION ITEM 4: Develop, adopt, and
implement tree and vegetation protection
ordinance.
Complete. Ordinance adopted in 2007.
ACTION ITEM 5: Develop, adopt, and
implement property grading and filling
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
134
regulations.
Complete. Ordinance adopted in 2005.
ACTION ITEM 6: Develop, adopt, and
implement capital improvements plan
(CIP).
A five-year CIP is adopted annually as
part of the Town’s budget. The most
recent CIP adoption occurred on June 5,
2019.
ACTION ITEM 7: Acquisition of property
and/or acceptance of easements on an
as
needed basis to meet public objectives.
Complete and ongoing.
1. 9.4 acres of land on the Currituck
Sound was purchased and developed
with a Town administration building,
meeting hall, public park, entertainment
facilities, and parking area.
2. Dozens of easements were
acquired from soundfront property own-
ers to accommodate the construction of
the Town’s soundside boardwalk.
3. Over 120 easements were acquired
from oceanfront property owners to
accommodate the construction of the
beach nourishment project.
4. The Town is negotiating with the
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to lease
additional property to house an expansion
of the existing public safety (Fire/Police)
building on the USACE Field Research
Facility property.
5. The Town acquired permanent
easements from 14 property owners and
temporary easements from 20 property
owners to allow for the construction of
the first two phases of sidewalk improve-
ments through Duck Village.
6. The Town obtained authorization
to maintain existing ditches and improve-
ments for stormwater drainage near the
Sanderling Resort and acquired ease-
ments to maintain stormwater drainage
near the Caffey’s Inlet neighborhood.
ACTION ITEM 8: Seek State assistance
to prepare shoreline access plan.
Not complete. The Town has not taken
any action toward this objective.
ACTION ITEM 9: Develop and imple-
ment a municipal property master plan.
Complete. All improvements in the mas-
ter plan including the town hall, meeting
hall, town park, stage, and amphitheater
have been constructed.
ACTION ITEM 10: Continue commu-
nity outreach and public participation
programs.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town has a full-time commu-
nity outreach/public information position
and assistant working with public out-
reach and event coordination.
2. The Town engages residents and
out-of-town property owners through the
use of traditional media and social media
including videos, newsletters, posters,
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
135
pamphlets, weekly e-news, Facebook,
Instagram, and Twitter.
3. The Town engages a variety of
stakeholders as issues arise and main-
tains contact lists for neighborhood asso-
ciations, business owners, engineers,
surveyors, real estate management com-
panies, and oceanfront/soundfront prop-
erty owners.
4. The Town has coordinated with
Dare County and other local municipali-
ties on large-scale media efforts to edu-
cate the public about significant projects
and issues (beach nourishment, flooding
risks, beach safety, etc.).
5. The Town is annually engaging in
public education programs (direct mail,
website, social media, etc.) regarding
flood maps, flooding risks, flood manage-
ment, and flood insurance.
ACTION ITEM 11: Develop program to
support/encourage business alliance
formation.
Complete and ongoing. The Duck Mer-
chants Association is an active and
vibrant presence in the Duck community.
The Town supports DMA activities by
hosting meetings, assisting with website
development, and coordinating events.
ACTION ITEM 12: Develop programs to
interact with/through civic groups.
Complete and ongoing.
1. Important information is dissem-
inated through local neighborhood
associations through newsletters, emails,
website, and social media.
2. Town employees frequently par-
ticipate in meetings with the Duck Mer-
chants Association and local neighbor-
hood associations.
3. Civic groups are invited to par-
ticipate as key stakeholders during the
development of plans.
ACTION ITEM 13: Participate in multi-ju-
risdictional beach management planning.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town partnered with Dare
County and several other towns on the
Outer Banks on the studies, design, and
funding for a beach/dune nourishment
project completed in 2017.
2. The Town is already engaging with
Dare County and other partner towns on
studies and plans necessary to implement
a beach renourishment project when nec-
essary in a few years.
ACTION ITEM 14: Participate in multi-ju-
risdictional regional transportation.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town participated in the cre-
ation and adoption of the Dare County
Comprehensive Transportation Plan.
2. The Town participated in the cre-
ation and adoption of the Albemarle
Regional Bicycle Plan.
3. The Town serves as an active mem-
ber of the Albemarle Regional Planning
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
136
Organization prioritizing transportation
projects and studying regional transpor-
tation issues.
ACTION ITEM 15: Develop Town-based
computer mapping program.
Complete.
1. The Town purchased and operates
its own GIS computer mapping system.
2. Information from the Town’s GIS
has been shared with other agencies
and planning consultants to help build
regional resources and assist with plan-
ning efforts.
ACTION ITEM 16: Codify Town
ordinances.
Complete and ongoing. The Town con-
tracts with American Legal Corporation
to annually codify and update the Town
Code.
ACTION ITEM 17: Conduct annual Town
Council retreat.
Complete and ongoing. The Town’s
annual retreat is conducted over two days
in late-winter, most recently on February
20-21, 2019.
ACTION ITEM 18: Develop a storm water
management plan.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town has retained an engi-
neer to assist with evaluating, prioritizing,
and designing stormwater management
improvements.
2. The Town has completed six signif-
icant projects to address recurring storm-
water management issues along Duck
Road (N.C. Highway 12) and the Duck
Trail shared use path.
3. The Town plans to study storm-
water drainage issues within several
residential neighborhoods with isolated,
recurring flooding issues.
4. The Town prepared and submitted
an Emergency Floodwater Management
Pumping Plan which was approved by the
Water Resources Division of NCDENR.
ACTION ITEM 19: Develop (in-house)
CAMA permitting capability.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town has two employees who
are trained and certified as CAMA Local
Permit Officers.
2. The Town issued 24 CAMA permits
in 2018.
ACTION ITEM 20: Examine potential for
an interconnected Duck Trail along the
west side of NC 12 and along the Cur-
rituck Sound shore line.
Complete and ongoing.
1. The Town contracted with an engi-
neering firm to conduct a study of this
potential project. Due to the physical con-
straints and significant costs identified by
the study, the Town has not subsequently
proceeded with this project.
2. During FY 2018-19, the Town
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
137
completed construction of a 0.8 mile side-
walk and bike lane along the west side of
Duck Road (NC Hwy 12) through Duck
Village.
3. In early 2019, the Town contracted
with an engineering firm to study and
design an extension to the sidewalk and
bike lane further to the north of Duck
Village.
ACTION ITEM 21: Prepare land use plan
implementation.
Complete and ongoing. The Town pre-
pares these reports when requested
every other year.
Plan Assessment: Town
of Duck Comprehensive
Pedestrian Plan
Summary Recommendations:
Sidewalks
The Plan recommends the addition of
sidewalks to both sides of NC 12 within
the Village Center to provide additional
capacity within the corridor, separate
pedestrians from vehicular and bicycle
lanes, and channelize pedestrians to
marked crosswalk locations.
Partially Accomplished and Ongoing
• Phases I and II complete.
• Phase III funded and scheduled for
construction in FY 2019-20.
• Potential Phase IV being studied,
under contract for preliminary design.
Crosswalks
The Plan recommends for adding, remov-
ing, and consolidating marked crosswalks,
to help develop a system of crossings
that works with the other improvements
included herein. Several of the crosswalk
locations are recommended to include a
median refuge island.
Accomplished
• All crosswalks in Duck Village
installed during Phases I and II.
Bike Lanes
In conjunction with the installation of
sidewalks, the shoulders with the Village
Center should be
converted to formal bike lanes with stan-
dard pavement markings and signs.
Partially Accomplished and Ongoing
• Phases I and II complete.
• Phase III funded and scheduled for
construction in FY 2019-20.
• Potential Phase IV being studied,
under contract for preliminary design.
Paved Shoulders
The extension of paved shoulders on
roadway sections north and south of the
Village Center would provide accom-
modation for bicyclists in addition to the
shared use path along these roadway
sections.
Not Started
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
138
• Preliminary evaluation shows very
challenging topography south of Duck
Village.
• Town can coordinate with NCDOT
on northern shoulders.
Shared Use Paths
The Plan recommends minor extensions
of the existing shared use path north and
south of the Village Center, to connect
to existing and proposed facilities and
improve the transition into the Village.
The Plan also recommends consider-
ation of a longer term project to install a
new shared use path on the west side of
NC 12 south of the Village.
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Connection to southern path com-
pleted in 2018.
• Connection to northern path sched-
uled for construction as part of Phase III
in 2020.
Pedestrian Level Lighting
Illumination of marked crosswalks will
benefit the high levels of night-time
pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular travel.
In addition, over the long-term, pedes-
trian lighting could be installed through-
out the Village Center.
Accomplished
• Lighting added at several existing
crosswalks in 2017.
• Crosswalk lighting added at all
existing and newly installed crosswalk in
Phases I and II.
Intersection Improvements
As part of new sidewalk construction,
pedestrian landings and marked cross-
walks of intersecting streets would be
incorporated. Additional improvements to
corner radii and sight lines should also be
made where appropriate. For the shared
use path north and south of the Village,
pavement markings, signage, and sight
lines should be analyzed and improved
where necessary.
Accomplished
• Intersection and crosswalk
improvements north and south of Duck
Village were completed in 2017.
Gateways
To enhance the transitions into the Vil-
lage Center, the Plan recommends Gate-
way treatments including raised median
islands and warning signs.
Accomplished
• Gateway medians installed at the
northern and southern ends of Duck Vil-
lage as part of Phase I.
Drainage
The Town has taken significant actions
to remediate stormwater ponding that
impedes pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicu-
lar traffic; the Plan recommends continu-
ation of these efforts at additional specific
locations, with construction details and
costs to be determined.
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
139
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Existing stormwater drainage
issues have been addressed by storm-
water management projects in several
areas along the Duck Trail.
• Additional areas are being evalu-
ated for future stormwater management
improvements.
Intelligent Transportation Systems
The use of traffic video cameras, web
interface, and/or advance warning mes-
sage signs could convey benefits to the
overall transportation system in the Town.
Accomplished
• Police Department has installed
permanent electronic speed limit and
messaging signs where speed limits
decrease north and south of Duck Village.
Encouragement Programs
The Town has recently taken significant
steps to encourage walking as a way to
access the Town’s many destinations. The
Plan recommends that these programs be
continued and expanded. Elements such
as walking and bicycling maps, walking
tours, wayfinding programs, tip sheets,
and working with bicycle rental shops to
promote use of bicycle lights and helmets
could all enhance the culture of walking
in the Town.
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Wayfinding maps have been
installed at multiple locations along the
sidewalks in Duck Village.
• 30,000 pedestrian/bicycle bro-
chures including maps and safety infor-
mation are produced and distributed each
year.
• When available through safety pro-
grams, the Town has handed out bike
lights and fluorescent wristbands at large
public events.
Education Programs
The Town should treat education as an
integral part of the overall improvement
of the pedestrian
system, to be pursued concurrently with
infrastructure improvements. The Plan
includes
recommendations for distribution of infor-
mation through real estate rental compa-
nies, professional development for Town
staff, coordination with state education
programs, and outreach at Town events.
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Pedestrian/bicycle brochures
including maps and safety information
are distributed to rental agencies and
businesses each year.
• Safety information is posted on the
Town’s website and reinforced through
social media campaigns.
Enforcement Programs
The Town Police Department should con-
tinue to enforce speed limits through-
out the Town, combined with targeted
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
140
enforcement of legal crosswalk behavior
(both by motorists and pedestrians). In
addition, the Plan suggests consideration
of a program to cite good behavior.
Partially Accomplished and Ongoing
• The Police Department enforces
vehicular traffic speeds, but finds it chal-
lenging to enforce pedestrian/bicyclist
behavior with limited staff.
Evaluation Programs
To help monitor the progress and results
of Plan implementation, the Town should
conduct annual pedestrian and bicy-
cle counts, and compare the results to
similar counts taken in 2009 and 2013.
In addition, the Plan recommends an
annual report on count and crash data,
infrastructure improvements, outreach
events, and public feedback.
Partially Accomplished and Ongoing
• Brief pedestrian/bicycle traffic
counts were taken north and south of
Duck Village in 2017.
• Town installed a pedestrian/bicy-
cle traffic counter by the southern end of
Duck Village in partnership with ITRE in
2017.
• Additional studies have not been
conducted.
Complete Streets Policy
To complement recently adopted NCDOT
policy, the Town should consider adopt-
ing its own Complete Streets Policy to
encourage development that accommo-
dates all roadway users.
Not Started
• Through its capital improvements
program, Town has funded the installa-
tion of complete streets throughout Duck
Village, but has not attempted to adopt a
formal policy.
Development Partners
The Plan recommends ordinance enact-
ment and coordination with private inter-
ests to ensure that new development and
redevelopment projects help implement
the Plan’s goals. In particular, opportu-
nities exist to coordinate on sidewalk
construction and connection, pedestrian
access through parking lots, and neigh-
borhood connections.
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Town has consistently evaluated
development proposals for consistency
with pedestrian/bicycle recommenda-
tions in the current land use plan and
2027 Vision.
• Duck Deli constructed a por-
tion of public sidewalk as part of its
redevelopment.
• 1184 Duck Road granted an ease-
ment for construction of a sidewalk.
Access Management
The Town should continue efforts to
improve property access and reduce
conflict points between motor vehicles,
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
141
pedestrians and bicyclists.
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Town has limited development pro-
posals to a single curb cut off Duck Road.
Plan Assessment: Town of
Duck 2027 Vision
Three to Five Year Goals:
(1) Continue to partner with and sup-
port the business community and the
Duck Merchants Association, including
increasing the exposure and accessibility
of all businesses
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Host meetings of the Duck Mer-
chants Association
• Promote DMA in mailings, website
links, events
• Partner on special events (Yuletide
Festival, Easter Egg Hunt)
• Post maps of Duck businesses
(2) Implement the Town of Duck Beach
Nourishment Project, develop a mainte-
nance plan for the current project, and
continue to monitor all areas of the Town
to identify possible future projects
Accomplished and Ongoing
• 1.7 miles of beach/dune nourish-
ment completed in 2017
• Annually - Contracted and volun-
teer dune planting programs
• Monitor beach/off-shore conditions
to determine if/when renourishment is
necessary
(3) Maintain the amenities of the Town to
their current standard and make improve-
ments where necessary and/or appropri-
ate, including modifications and enhance-
ments to improve the Duck experience
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Annually maintain/repair soundside
boardwalk
• Annually maintain and improve
Town Park facilities
(4) Continue the 5-Year Financial Plan to
optimize our resources
• Address human resources, infra-
structure, fund balance, revenues, demo-
graphics, future circumstances and
capacity
• Develop a fiscal plan that sets a tax
rate designed to reasonably fund projects
and services and reflects the desire for
stable or limited tax growth
• Work to get the most value for our
tax dollars and communicate these deci-
sions to all stakeholders
• Evaluate outcomes, both qualita-
tively and quantitatively
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Five-year financial plan updated
annually as part of the budget process
• Town in positive fiscal condition
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
142
now and moving forward
(5) Continue to explore and analyze the
feasibility of a northern extension of the
boardwalk
Underway
• Contracted for SAV survey
• Discussed preliminary project
design with consultants
• Not green-lighted or funded at this
time
(6) Continue to implement thoughtful
strategies designed to engage the stake-
holders of the Town
• Foster community participation
with ongoing events, including shoulder
and off-season experiences
• Maintain high level of communica-
tion and inclusion
• Enhance our network of volunteers
and ensure continuity
• Learn more about seasonal
stakeholders
• Explore strategies/forum for HOAs
to connect and engage with the Town
and each other, including the use of
technology
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Weekly e-news to approximately
2,000 subscribers
• Strong social media presence on
Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram
• Biannual newsletter mailed to prop-
erty owners
• Stakeholders included in relevant
discussions
• Developed network of nearly 130
community volunteers
(7) Complete the long-term plan for the
renovation or reconstruction of the public
safety building
Underway
• Conceptual design/environmental
studies completed
• Awaiting approval of alternative
land lease from U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers
(8) Continue to advocate for traffic
improvements including the construction
of the Mid-Currituck Bridge, opposition
to the widening of NC12, evaluation and
implementation of stormwater improve-
ments, and evaluation of public parking
alternatives
Ongoing
• Mid-Currituck Bridge project is
funded and scheduled, but legal delays
expected
• Completed several stormwater
management improvements
• Herron property purchase
attempted
• Parking study discussed, but not
prioritized
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
143
(9) Develop a strong relationship between
the property managers and the Town
ensuring that
• there is a strong awareness of pub-
lic safety interface
• appropriate information is shared
with property owners and visitors
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Email list of neighborhood contacts
for relevant information
(10) Implement all facets of the Town of
Duck Comprehensive Pedestrian Plan
Accomplished and Ongoing
• Completed Phase 1 & 2 sidewalks
and bike lanes in Duck Village
• Installed gateway medians, pedes-
trian crosswalks, and crosswalk lighting
• Completing Phase 3 design and
specifications for permitting
• Evaluating Phase 4 constraints and
potential design
• Completed several stormwater
management improvements
• Annually repave sections of the
Duck Trail north and south of Duck Village
(continued on next page)
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
144
Town of Duck - Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2019 - status assessment (04/24/2019)
Action # Description/Strategy Hazard(s)
Addressed
Relative
Priority
Lead Agency /
Department
Potential Funding
Source Implementation Status
DCK1
Continue to fund enforcement
of current hazard mitigation
regulations.
All Hazards High Town Council General Fund Town Council continues to annually fund a Code Enforcement Position and, Certified
Floodplain Manager as well as continuing education training.
DCK2 Improve stormwater drainage
in vulnerable areas
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding
High Town Council,
Town Staff General Fund
Town Staff continues to identify and resolve localized roadway flooding issues as funding
and resources become available. The Town has identified low lying areas through GIS
mapping and associated flood risks to those areas resulting from rain events. The Town
has submitted an emergency floodwater management plan for review and consideration
by NCDWR to address these areas. The Town also continues to implement stormwater
management projects along NC12 to mitigate flooding and standing water. Drainage
Projects along NC12 at Duck Ridge Village Court, Station Bay Marina and along the Duck
Trail have been budgeted in fiscal year 2019-20.
DCK3
Adopt and apply development
policies that balance
protection of natural
resources and fragile areas
with residential and economic
development
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Thunderstorm
s, Wildfire,
Flooding
Medium Town Council General Fund
Town Staff is working with OBX CRS Users Group on the development of a new floodplain
ordinance with higher regulatory standards for areas within the Special Flood Hazard Area
(SFHA) as well as areas that are not located within the SFHA to address known flood risks.
These standards are being prepared in expectation of the adoption of new Flood Insurance
Rate Maps from FEMA in 2020. Town Council adopted a Resolution establishing a
policy related to the Emergency Pumping of Floodwaters September, 2018.
DCK4
Develop policies that minimize
threats to life, property, and
natural resources resulting
from development located in
or adjacent to hazard areas,
such as those subject to
erosion, high winds, storm
surge, flooding, or sea level
rise.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Thunderstorm
s, Wildfire,
Flooding
Medium Town Council General Fund
Adoption of revised Flood Insurance Rate Maps and Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance,
local participation in CAMA LPO program, participation in the FEMA Community Rating
System, enforcement of NC State Building Code Revisions and amendments including wind-
borne debris provisions. The Town has also revised policies related to oceanfront
development including additional setbacks for accessory structures, new dune walkway
standards, and remedies for structures encroaching on the ocean beach. Annual beach
profile surveys initiated in 2017 continue to assess changing shoreline patterns.
DCK5
Develop location, density, and
intensity criteria for new,
existing development and
redevelopment including
public facilities and
infrastructure so that they can
better avoid or withstand
natural hazards.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Thunderstorm
s, Wildfire,
Flooding
Medium Town Council General Fund
Town Code revisions including lot coverage regulations, limitations on residential dwelling
size, increased setbacks for accessory structures, additional elevation requirements for V-
Zone structures and incentives for use of permeable and semi-permeable materials for
driveways and parking have been adopted. Town Council adopted additional limitations on
the scale of development through house size limitations and increased setback
requirements January, 2019.
DCK6
Identify areas most at risk and
investigate strategies to
reduce risk from wild
land/urban interface fires
Wildfire Medium
Fire
Department,
Town Staff
General Fund
Fire department staff will be utilizing resources to include utilizing new GIS mapping tools
to identify areas that may be vulnerable in order to determine effective risk reduction
strategies.
DCK7
Collaborate with Duck Fire and
Town Staff to educate the
homeowners, developers and
landscapers on designing fire
safe communities.
Wildfire Medium
Fire
Department,
Town Council
General Fund
Fire department staff is initiating a phased approach with Phase I implementation focusing
on education and awareness. Future phases will look at regulatory implementation and a
formalized plan.
DCK8 Continue education efforts to
promote dune maintenance.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High
Town Staff,
Hired
Consultant,
Division of
Coastal
Management
General Fund,
Grant Fund
Town distributes information and promotes the proper installation of sand fence
encourages the planting of native vegetation. The Town implemented volunteer based
beach planting program November, 2017 with funding expected to be continued. The
program has garnished support from residents, non-residents and local volunteer groups.
DCK9
Keep effective construction
techniques for coastal
communities available online.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Staff General Fund Town of Duck Floodplain webpage reworked 9/18 to include Continue to provide
FEMA/NC Department of Insurance publications on Coastal Construction Techniques.
DCK10
As a FEMA CRS commuity, we
will take advantage of the
various mitigation strategies
promoted by this program.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council,
Town Staff General Fund
The Town continues to develop actions and strategies that will lower its CRS rating and
therefore provide lower flood insurance premiums to property owners within the Town.
See also DCK3
Plan Assessment: Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
145
DCK11
Mitigate ocean over wash and
sound erosion by identifying
vulnerable areas, developing
public outreach information
and disseminating this
information to the public.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
The Town has been monitoring high oceanfront erosion areas by documenting storm
damage and taking photos/Go Pro and aerial drone video. A beach erosion study has been
completed for the Town by the USACOE and Coastal Planning and Engineering which
documents erosion patterns and existing conditions. As a result of these findings, annual
beach profile surveys were initiated in 2017 to assess changing patterns and will continue
annually. These survey are expected to soon be supplemented with aerial drone
technology to develop 3D imaging analysis. The Town still needs to develop a method to
track sound side erosion. Information regarding these findings are disseminated through
social media, the Town website and direct email correspondance to oceanfront owners
and to soundfront owners once that database is completed.
DCK12
Increase the amount of open
space throughout the town by
seeking land donations or
making land purchases.
Develop an open space plan to
further enhance these areas.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
The Town owns an 11-acre park in the center of the Village Commercial area which is
partially maintained as open space. As the Town is 90 percent developed, there are few
areas available to purchase and maintain as open space. Additionally, Town funds for
property acquisitions are limited. Future activities in this area will largely depend on the
success of the Town in acquiring property with available grants.
DCK13
Support programs and
initiatives to annually assess
shoreline changes (erosion
and accretion)
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
The Town has been monitoring high oceanfront erosion areas by documenting storm
damage and taking photos/Go Pro and aerial drone video. A beach erosion study has been
completed for the Town by the USACOE and Coastal Planning and Engineering which
documents erosion patterns and existing conditions. The Town enacted an additional tax
to support beach management activities, and annual beach profile surveys were initiated
in 2017 to assess changing patterns. These survey are expected to soon be supplemented
with aerial drone technology providing 3D imaging analysis that will further enhance the
Town's ability to track shoreline change. These techniques may likely be carried over to
assess soundside shoreline changes as well.
DCK14
Stay informed, involved and
supportive relative to Federal,
State, and/or regional studies,
initiatives and efforts
concerning beach re-
nourishment and maintenance
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
The Town participates in the annual program established by the Dare County Shoreline
Commission to provide funds for beach maintenance. The Town has started discussions
3/2019 regarding beach re-nourishment in conjunction with Dare County and the Towns of
Kill Devil Hills, Kitty Hawk and Southern Shores.
DCK15
Provide residents with
information and links to
technical assistance
concerning beach re-
nourishment and maintenance
activities and options such as
sand fencing
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
The Town website, social media and direct email communication is utilized for
dissemination of information. The Town provides information and issues CAMA permits to
oceanfront property owners seeking to maintain their primary and frontal dunes.
DCK16
Lobby the NC Board of
Transportation and the NC
Department of Transportation
and NC Turnpike Authority for
the construction of the Mid-
County Bridge.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council,
NCDOT NCDOT
The Town Council has issued several resolutions to support the construction of the Mid-
Currituck Bridge and to identify the Town’s preferred design alternative for the project.
The Town has sent letters to NCDOT and NC Turnpike Authority Staff providing comments
on the project studies that have been underway for several years. The Town frequently
discusses the project at regular Town Council meetings and is kept informed of the status
of the project by Town staff and residents who serve on a local committee to support
construction of the bridge.
DCK17
Address drainage issues on NC
12 as applicable and provide
funding for necessary
stormwater improvements.
Hurricanes,
Nor’easters, T-
storms,
Flooding,
Erosion
High Town Council General Fund
NCDOT
Engineering is ongoing to rectify localized drainage problems on parts of NC 12 and funding
is being provided in the CIP annually. Pending projects include pedestrian improvements
along the west side of NC12 in the Village which include a sidewalk with both landscaping
and stormwater features, and Duck Trail improvements north of Waxwing Lane and
Station Bay Drive. Going into FY 2019-2020, as funding permits, projects are expected to
include improvements on the east and west side of NC12 at Wee Winks, south of Four
Seasons Lane and at NC12 and Station Bay Marina. Collaboration with NCDOT continues
as needed.
DCK18
Continue to provide effective
public information and
education materials to
disseminate data on hazards,
and educate beachgoers on
beach safety (rip currents,
beach holes, beach fires, etc.)
All Hazards
Rip Currents High
Town Council,
Town Manager,
Public
Information
Officer, Ocean
Rescue
General Fund
Continue collaboration through the County’s Joint Information Center (JIC) and Emergency
Management tools to include methods such as regroup and other joint marketing
techniques designed for large scale public dissemination. Continue annual and in-season
evaluations and reviews regarding public safety staffing, life-guard stand locations, and
effective means to communicate threats (ocean conditions, storms hazardous conditions);
i.e. social media, life guard advisories, use of flag notification systems and signage at beach
access locations.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
146
DCK19 Participate in the
Dare/Currituck County Local
Emergency Preparedness
Committee (LEPC)
All Hazards Low/
Medium Public Safety General Fund
Dare and Currituck County Emergency Management initiated meetings in 2017 for
consideration of forming a joint LEPC. The Outer Banks Regional LEPC was established in
order to improve capabilities to meet all threats and hazards not just HAZMAT. Public
safety personnel is and will continue to participate in meetings and joint trainings to
improve multi-jurisdictional emergency response to all hazards.
DKC20 Annual Review of Emergency
Operations Plan
All Hazards Low/
Medium Town Staff General Fund
Continue to review the Town’s Emergency Operations Plan annually in order to address
any lessons learned, priorities, procedures, or additions to ensure effective
implementation of the plan.
DCK21
Continue development and
improvement related to the
dissemination of public
information to stakeholders
All Hazards High Town Council,
Town Staff General Fund
The Town effectively utilizes its website, social media, and direct email and telephone
communications to communicate threats to and from its stakeholders (i.e.; property
owners, residents, business owners, and vacationers), however continual research and
development of new and effective means of communication are constantly pursued.
Collaboration with the County’s Joint Information Center (JIC) and Emergency
Management has helped with the development of new techniques and technology to
dissemintate information. Ongoing collaboration with Duck Merchant’s Association is
maintained through quarterly and monthly meetings. Databases for the purpose of direct
email communications with oceanfront and soundfront owners are maintained and
updated regularly.
(end of plan assessments)
Appendix F: Existing Plan Review
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
147
<This page intentionally blank>
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
GG
149Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Appendix G: Seasonal
Population Projection
Methodology
Seasonal Population Estimate
Duck, like other coastal North Carolina beach communities, experiences large seasonal
surges in population. Seasonal population in Duck is primarily driven by the short-term
rental market and seasonal occupants and second homeowners who classify their pri-
mary residence elsewhere. The data on permanent residents shows additional bedrooms
which are likely used for lodging overnight guests which contribute to some degree to the
increase in population. Bed and breakfasts or other short-term options are limited in num-
ber and do not greatly influence the estimate of peak seasonal occupancy. Day-travelers
are not accounted for in these calculations and may be significant, especially for popular
festivals and events. By combining the number of year-round residents with the average
peak seasonal population estimate described in greater detail below yields a 2017 peak
seasonal population (permanent plus seasonal guests) estimate of 21,450 for the Town
of Duck.
150
A summary of overnight visitors that was used to calculate the peak seasonal population
is described in the table below.
Total Overnight Visitors in the Peak Month
Short-Term Rentals & Seasonally Occupied Units
Data on the overall number of short-term rentals is difficult to ascertain. While the most
current data from the 2017 American Community Survey Estimates indicates there are
2,633 vacant housing units for seasonal or recreational use. For comparison, AirDNA
data pulled in May 2019 indicate 324 active rentals, though this only accounts for listings
active on Airbnb and not the whole short-term rental market or second homes which are
only seasonally occupied. AirDNA data also indicates a peak month of July with a 100%
occupancy, an average rental size of 4.3 bedrooms, with an average of 10.6 guests per
Low Estimate High
Estimate
Peak Population 17,100 23,000
Permanent
Population 370 1,110
Peak Seasonal
Population 270
Total 17,740 24,380
Average 21,060
Starting Estimates and Assumptions
Population Type Definition 2017 Estimate
Peak Population Permanent plus seasonal population. This is an approximation
of theplanning area’s population on a “typical” peak day during
he high season.
21,450
Permanent
Population
Persons who usually reside in the planning area 369
Peak Seasonal
Population
Peak Seasonal Population Persons who are temporarily resid-
ing in the planning area, such as tourists and vacationers, but
who normally reside in another location. This estimate does not
include day-trippers.
21,060
Appendix G: Seasonal Population Projection Methodology
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
151
rental. “Whole house rentals” are classified as 99% of the rental market. This informa-
tion is corroborated based on conversations relating to the short-term rental market in
the area.
The following assumptions are made:
»Census data from 2017 on seasonal, recreational and occasionally occupied units (2,633)
was used to calculate the seasonal occupancy. Most of these units exceed four bedrooms.
»The short-term rentals reflect the general housing stock within Duck (based on the number
of bedrooms and unit distribution).
»Peak occupancy rate for units used is 90%.
»July is assumed to be the peak month which correlates with AirDNA data and Occupancy
Tax data from Dare County.
To develop the seasonal population that corresponds to the short-term occupants, ranges
from 1-14 persons per housing unit were assigned based on the number of bedrooms
per unit. A low and high estimate of persons is used based on bedrooms for each type of
housing unit which corresponds to the general housing stock within Duck:
Estimated Short-Term Occupancy in the Peak Month
i) American Community Survey 2017 data on unit distribution in Duck
Number of Bedrooms Occupancy
Rate
Housing Unit
Distribution (i)Housing Units Low Occupancy
Estimate
High
Occupancy
Estimate
Studio
90%
4%116 104 209
1 Bedroom 6%153 275 412
2 Bedroom 7%195 526 877
3 Bedroom 13%337 1,517 2,502
4 Bedroom 38%1008 7,261 8,620
5 or more bedrooms 31%824 7,417 10,380
2,633 17,100 23,000
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
152
Guests of Year-Round Residents
Another factor that contributes to the seasonal population in the peak months are over-
night guests of the permanent population. With 65% of housing units exceeding four
bedrooms and an average of 2 people per household in the permanent population, the
expectation for guests within the year-round housing units is relatively high compared
with other communities. A low estimate of 2 guests per permanently occupied housing
unit and a high estimate of 4 guests per unit is used to estimate peak seasonal guests.
Estimated Guests of Year-Round Duck Residents in the Peak Month
Persons per Unit 1.95
Permanently Occupied Housing
Units (ii)
3.69
Low Estimate High Estimate
Guests of Year-Round Residents 1 per unit 3 per unit
370 1,110
Other Lodging
Other lodging options in Duck are limited but consist of a Bed and Breakfast and the
Sanderling Resort. This lodging has not been altered or changed significantly since the
2004 CAMA report which estimated the peak seasonal population from other lodging
options in Duck at 270 persons.
Permanent Population Projections
Permanent population projections were extrapolated based on three different scenarios:
matching the county growth rate projected by NC Office of State Budget Management,
matching the Town's growth rate 2010-2017, and matching the town's growth rate from
2000-2017.
Appendix G: Seasonal Population Projection Methodology
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
153
2000 2010 2017 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050
Dare County
Growth
Projections (NC
OSBM)

33,920

38,055

40,983

43,203
Historic
Population,
Census-
Reported
448 369 396
Match County
Projections 369 396 410 425 441 457 474 492 510
Match Town's
Growth Rate,
2010-2017 396 408 429 450 473 497 523 549
Match Town's
Growth Rate,
2000-2017 396 387 373 360 347 334 322 311
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
154
Peak Population Projection
Any increase in seasonal population in the future will be largely tied to the residential
development market and overall housing economy. The majority (92%) of new single
family permitted property within the town is part of the seasonal market and it is unlikely
that any new hotels or other types of lodging will be constructed for overnight visitors.
Specifically, larger homes with more bedrooms being redeveloped in place of smaller,
older homes. This may attribute to small increases in the seasonal population over the
coming years. Permit data from the Town of Duck between 2003 and 2017 shows a
median number of 6 bedrooms and 12 occupants in new development. Since 2010, an
average of 8 new homes per year are being built. While the overall number of units in
this scenario remains flat because these homes are primarily redevelopment of homes
on existing lots, the seasonal population is projected using approximately 40 new occu-
pants per year to represent the additional persons occupying additional bedrooms in the
newly redeveloped housing, which yields a 2017 peak population estimate of 21,450 for
the town of Duck.
Duck Peak Population Projection
2017 2020 2025 2030 2035 2040 2045 2050
21,450 21,570 21,770 21,970 22,170 22,370 22,570 22,770
Appendix G: Seasonal Population Projection Methodology
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
155
<This page intentionally blank>
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
HH
157Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Appendix H: Supporting
Materials
The following materials are also available upon inquiry with the Town.
158
Existing Land UseAppendix H: Supporting Materials
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
159Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
160
Multimodal Transportation SystemAppendix H: Supporting Materials
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
161Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
162
FEMA Flood Hazard Areas
BUNTING LNBAU
MTRLWAXWINGL N
HILLSIDECTSO UNDSEAAVE
OYSTERCATCHE R LN
MA R T INLNELMDRGANNE T L N
CAFFEYSCTMAPLEDRCLAY STS
KIMMER W AYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLN
CEDARDRWILLOWDRCYPRESSDRWA
X
WI
NGCT
BUNTINGWAYS
H
EARWATERWAYROYALTERNLNCARROL DRPELIC ANWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAY
ACORN OAK AVERUDDYDUCK LN
OCEAN BAY BLVDQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLFLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
F l o o d H a z a r d A r e a s
Date: 12/17/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FloodHazardArea_20201217.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NOR BANKSDRSNIPECTFRAZIERCTRENE CTSPINDRIFT LNSHIPS W A T C H DRBALDPATEDRDUCKRD BUFFELLHEADRDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECK DRWIDGEON DR
DIANNE ST
SPYGLASS RD
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
SEA TERN DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
T
UCKAHOE DRBIAS DR
OCEANC
R
ESTWAYSEABREEZEDR MARLINCTJASMINECTLONEWAY
OCEANFRONTDR
OCEANWAYCTFAWNCTVIVIAN CTBRAND O N
CTSEAOATS CTLALACTMALLA
RDC
TSPECKLETROUTDRAZALEACTCHOCTAWCTWINAUK CTS
EAE
I
D
ERCTD
U
C
K
R
D
YOLANDATERRMAGNOLIACTPAMELA CTSEAHAWKCTDUNESCRESTBETSYCTTERESACTVICTORIA CTSHIPS W ATC H DR
ROCKFISH LNAMY LN
CHRISTOPHER DR
HATCHCOVER
CTNASH R DBEA CHC O MBER
CT
POTESKEET DR
H
A
L
Y
A
R
DCTG
I
FFORDCIR
CHARLES JENKINS LNCHIPCTSHIPSWHEELCT
OCE
ANWAYDUCK RIDGEVILLAGECT
FOUR SEASONSLN
SEA OATS TRL
D U C K HUNTCLUBLN
S ETTLERS
LNTIDES DR
OSPREY RIDGERD
THIRTEENTHAVE
BIAS LN
SEA HAWK DR
GEORGETOWNSANDS RD
BARRIERISLANDSTATION
JAYCRESTRD
COOK DR
BAYBERRY DR
NORTHDUNELOOP
SEA COLONY DR
OLDE DUCK RD
DUCK LANDING LN
MARLIN DR
DUNE RD
SCARBOROUGHLN
PLOVER DR
WAMPUM DR
SCHOONER RIDGE DR
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 800 1,600400
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A u d u b o n P i n e
I s l a n d R e s e r v e
Context
Parcel
State Road
Private Road
Flood Hazard Areas
AE
AH
AO
VE
X
Appendix H: Supporting Materials
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
163
Town Water Supply
BUNTING LNBAU
MTRLW A XWINGLNHILLSIDECTS O U NDSEA AVE
M ART I N LNELMDRGANNETCVCAFFEYSCTCLAYSTMAPLEDRS
KIMME R W AYDUCKRDBLUEHERONLN
CEDARDRWILLOWDRCYPRESSDRW
A
XWINGCTBUNTINGWAYS
H
EARWATERWAYROYALTERNLNGANNETLNPE L IC A NWAYSTATIONBAYDRVIREOWAY
ACORN OAK AVERUDDYDUCKLN
CARROL DRQUAILWAYNBAUMTRLOYSTERCATCHE R LN
OCEAN BAY BLVD
FLIGHT DR
SEA TERN DR
OCEANPINESDR
To w n o f D u c k
C o m p r e h e n s i v e a n d
C A M A L a n d U s e P l a n
To w n W a t e r S u p p l y
Date: 12/18/2020
Document Path: M:\Projects\2019\M19017_DuckCAMALandUsePlan\GIS\Mapping\FloodHazardArea_20201217.mxd
DISCLAIMER: This map was created using the best available data, and is provided without warranty of any representation of accuracy or completeness. The information herein does not necessarily represent a legal survey. This data is dynamic and in a constant state of maintenance.
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
NOR BANKSDRSNIPECTFRAZIERCTRENE CTSPINDRIFT LNSHIPS W A T C H DRBALDPATEDRDUCK RDBUFFELLHEADRDWHISTLINGSWAN DRQUARTERDECK DRD IANNE ST
SPYGLASS RD
WIDGEON DR
TRINITIE DR
SPRIGTAIL DR
OLD SQUAW DR
SEA TERN DR
CANVAS BACK DR
MALLARD DR
WOOD DUCK DR
PINTAIL DR
SNOW GEESE DR
SANDY RIDGE RD
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
[
0 800 1,600400
Feet
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
A t l a n t i c
O c e a n
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
C u r r i t u c k
S o u n d
A u d u b o n P i n e
I s l a n d R e s e r v e
Context
Dare County Water Supply
Parcel
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
II
165Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Appendix I: CAMA Land
Use Plan Matrix
CAMA Matrix
The following matrix is required by the state to be included in CAMA land use plans.
<Matrix begins on next page>
166
Matrix for Land Use Plan Elements – 15A NCAC 7B .0702 Page Reference(s)
Organization of the Plan
• Matrix that shows the location of the required elements as set forth in this Rule Appendix I, p.166-170
Community Concerns and Aspirations
• Description of the dominant growth-related conditions that influence land use,
development, water quality and other environmental concerns in the planning
area
Particularly pages 50-51, but also
p.45-49, and Appendices B, C, D,
and E
Description of the land use and development topics most important to the future of the
planning area, including:
• Public Access 50
• Land Use Compatibility 50
• Infrastructure Carrying Capacity 51
• Natural Hazard Areas 51
• Water Quality 51
Community Vision
• Description of the general physical appearance and form that represents the
local government’s plan for the future. It shall include objectives to be achieved
by the plan and identify changes that may be needed to achieve the planning
vision.
8 (Vision)
Existing and Emerging Conditions
Population, Housing and Economy
Discussion of the following data and trends:
• Permanent population growth trends using data from the two most decennial
Censuses
45-47, 149 (Appendix G)
• Current permanent and seasonal population estimates 46-47
• Key population characteristics including age and income 48-49
• Thirty-year projections of permanent and seasonal population in five-year
increments
46-47, Appendix H (152-153)
• Estimate of current housing stock, including permanent and seasonal units,
tenure, and types of units (single-family, multifamily, and manufactured)
48-49
• Description of employment by major sectors and community economic activity 49
Natural Systems
Description of natural features in the planning jurisdiction to include:
• Areas of Environmental Concern (AECs) as set forth in Subchapter 15A NCAC
07H
52-55
• Soil characteristics, including limitations for septic tanks, erodibility, and other
factors related to development
62-63
• Environmental Management Commission (EMC) water quality classifications and
related use support designations
64-65
• Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) shellfish growing areas and water quality
conditions
61-62
• Flood and other natural hazard areas 66-69
• Storm surge areas 66-69
Appendix I: CAMA Land Use Plan Matrix
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
167
Matrix for Land Use Plan Elements – 15A NCAC 7B .0702 Page Reference(s)
• Non-coastal wetlands, including forested wetlands, shrub-scrub wetlands and
freshwater marshes
56-57
• Water supply watersheds or wellhead protection areas 74
• Primary nursery areas 62
• Environmentally fragile areas, such as wetlands, natural heritage areas, areas
containing endangered species, prime wildlife habitats, or maritime forests
52-61
• Additional natural features or conditions identified by the local government 58, 64,66 , 68, 70-71
Environmental Conditions
Discussion of environmental conditions within the planning jurisdiction to include an
assessment of the following conditions and features:
• Status and changes of surface water quality; including:
- Impaired streams from the most recent Division of Water Resources (DWR)
Basin Planning Branch Reports
64
- Clean Water Act 303 (d) List 64
- Other comparable data 64
• Current situation and trends on permanent and temporary closures of shell-
fishing waters as determined by the Report of Sanitary Survey by the Shellfish
Sanitation and Recreational Water Quality Section of the DMF
61-62
• Areas experiencing chronic wastewater treatment malfunctions 64
• Areas with water quality or public health problems related to non-point source
pollution
64
• Areas subject to recurrent flooding, storm surges and high winds 66-68
• Areas experiencing significant shoreline erosion as evidenced by the presence of
threatened structures or public facilities
62
• Environmentally fragile areas (as defined in Part (c)(2)(A)(ix) of this Rule) or
areas where resources functions are impacted as a result of development
61
• Natural resource areas that are being impacted or lost as a result of incom-
patible development. These may include, but are not limited to the following:
coastal wetlands, protected open space, and agricultural land.
61
Existing Land Use and Development
MAP of existing land use patterns 81, 158-159
• Description of the existing land use patterns 12-13, 79-82
• Estimates of the land area allocated to each land use category 80
• Characteristics of each land use category 82
MAP of historic, cultural, and scenic areas designated by a state or federal agency or by
the local government
79
• Descriptions of the historic, cultural and scenic areas 18-19, 24, 78-79
Community Facilities
Evaluation of existing and planned capacity, location and adequacy of community facilities
to include:
MAP of existing and planned public and private water supply service areas 163
• Description of existing public and private water supply systems to include:
, Cont.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
168
Matrix for Land Use Plan Elements – 15A NCAC 7B .0702 Page Reference(s)
- Existing condition 74
- Existing capacity 74
- Documented overflows, bypasses or other problems that may degrade
water quality or constitute a threat to public health as documented by the
DWR
72-74
- Future water supply needs based on population projections 74
MAP of existing and planned public and private wastewater service areas 75
• Description of existing public and private wastewater systems to include:
- Existing condition 72
- Existing capacity 72
- Documented overflows, bypasses or other problems that may degrade
water quality or constitute a threat to public health as documented by the
DWR
72
- Future wastewater system needs based on population projections 72
MAP of existing and planned multimodal transportation systems and port and airport
facilities
79, 160-161
• Description of any highway segments deemed by the NC Department of Trans-
portation (NCDOT) as having unacceptable service as documented in the most
recent NCDOT Transportation and/or Thoroughfare Plan
78
• Description of highway facilities on the current thoroughfare plan or current
transportation improvement plan
78-79
• Description of the impact of existing transportation facilities on land use pat-
terns
78
• Description of the existing public stormwater management system 74
• Identification of existing drainage problems and water quality issues related to
point-source discharges of stormwater runoff
74
Policy Cita-tion(s)Page Refer-ence(s)
Future Land Use
Policies
• Policies that exceed the use standards and permitting requirements found in
Subchapter 7H, State Guidelines for Areas of Environmental Concern
n/a n/a
Policies that address the Coastal Resources Commission’s (CRC’s) management topics:
Public Access Management Goal:
Maximize public access to the beaches and the public trust waters of the coastal region.
The planning objectives for public access are local government plan policies that:
• Address access needs and opportunities 1.1, 2.2 30, 32
• Identify strategies to develop public access 1.1 30
• Address provisions for all segments of the community, including persons with
disabilities
1.1 30
Appendix I: CAMA Land Use Plan Matrix
, Cont.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
169
Matrix for Land Use Plan Elements – 15A NCAC 7B .0702 Page Reference(s)
• For oceanfront communities, establish access policies for beach areas targeted
for nourishment
1.1 30
Land Use Compatibility Management Goal:
Ensure that development and use of resources or preservation of land balance protection
of natural resources and fragile areas with economic development, and avoids risks to
public health, safety, and welfare.
The planning objectives for land use compatibility are local government plan policies that:
• Characterize future land use and development patterns 4.1 35
• Establish mitigation criteria and concepts to minimize conflicts 4.2, 4.3 35
Infrastructure Carrying Capacity Management Goal:
Ensure that public infrastructure systems are sized, located, and managed so the quality
and productivity of AECs and other fragile areas are protected or restored.
The planning objectives for infrastructure carrying capacity are local government plan
policies that:
• Establish service criteria 12.2 43
• Ensure improvements minimize impacts to AECs and other fragile areas 12.3, 6.3 37, 43
Natural Hazard Areas Management Goal:
Conserve and maintain barrier dunes, beaches, floodplains, and other coastal features for
their natural storm protection functions and their natural resources giving recognition to
public health, safety, and welfare issues.
The planning objectives for natural hazard areas are local government plan policies that:
• Establish mitigation and adaptation concepts and criteria for development and
redevelopment, including public facilities
2.1, 7.2 32, 38
• Minimize threats to life, property and natural resources resulting from erosion, high winds, storm surge, flooding, or other natural hazards 1.2, 1.3, 2.1, 6.1-6.4 30, 31, 32, 37
Water Quality Management Goal:
Maintain, protect and where possible enhance water quality in all coastal wetlands, rivers,
streams, and estuaries.
The planning objectives for water quality are local government plan policies that:
• Establish strategies and practices to prevent or control nonpoint source pollu-
tion
6.3, 12.2 37, 43
• Establish strategies and practices to maintain or improve water quality
2.1, 3.2, 6.4,
12.3
32, 34, 37, 43
Future Land Use Map Page Reference(s)
MAP of future land uses that depicts the policies for growth and development and the
desired future patterns of land use and development with consideration given to natural
system constraints and infrastructure
14-15
• Descriptions of land uses and development associated with the future land use
map designations
15-24
Tools for Managing Development
• Description of the role of plan policies, including the future land use map, in
local decisions regarding land use and development
11, 27
, Cont.
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
170
Matrix for Land Use Plan Elements – 15A NCAC 7B .0702 Page Reference(s)
• Description of the community’s development management program, including
local ordinances, codes, and other plans and policies
123-146
Action Plan and Implementation Schedule
• Description of actions that will be taken by the local government to implement
policies that meet the CRC’s management topic goals and objectives, specifying
fiscal year(s) in which each action is anticipated to start and finish
30-43
• Identification of specific steps the local government plans to take to implement
the policies, including adoption and amendment of local ordinances, other
plans, and special projects
30-43
Appendix I: CAMA Land Use Plan Matrix
, Cont.
Last Modified: August 26, 2021 5:01 PM
171
<This page intentionally blank>
Town of Duck Comprehensive and CAMA Land Use Plan
Comprehensive
and CAMA
Land Use Plan
Prepared by: