§ 50-190. River protection.

(a)

Intent and purpose. The purpose and intent of this section is to preserve the scenic beauty of the Suwannee River, Withlacoochee River and Waccasassa River and to assist in the prevention of additional pollution of such rivers. As the county has been afforded a share in some of nature's most beautiful attractions, it is hereby declared to be a proper county purpose to preserve and protect such rivers and their tributaries to the extent of the county's authority. The board of county commissioners will continue to concern itself with the subject matter of this section but does not intend by adopting this section to oppose or support proposals that the Suwannee River be included in federal legislation that would provide for federal regulation.

(b)

Sanitation specifications. Strict adherence to state sanitation specifications on all new construction sites within one-half mile of such rivers is required. The county sanitarian is designated as the principal enforcement officer for the purposes of ensuring compliance with this section.

(1)

Septic tanks are prohibited in the ten-year flood zone, but alternative methods may be used if acceptable to the state and the water management district.

(2)

Septic tanks are permitted in the 100-year floodplain, provided that soil testing on every lot is required and all bleeder lines (drainfields) shall be separated from the seasonally-high water table by a minimum of 24 inches. Elevated drainfields will be required where the seasonally-high water table is located within 24 inches of ground surface. (See figure 53-1 on file with the county clerk.)

(c)

Setbacks.

(1)

Advertising and commercial buildings. New construction of commercial buildings or advertising signs within 50 feet of the generally recognized riverbank of a navigable portion of any of such rivers or their tributaries is prohibited unless written approval is first obtained from the board of county commissioners. Only such construction that is in keeping with the scenic beauty, directly related to the normal and safe use of the rivers and found to be in the best interest of the public, will be permitted.

(2)

Trees and natural growth. No trees or other natural growth shall be cut or removed from within 75 feet of the generally recognized riverbank of a navigable portion of any of such rivers or their tributaries except for limited removal of underbrush and trees necessary for a view of the water and for approved construction. (Note: In the event of a conflict, article VI of this chapter shall prevail.)

(3)

Industry. Future industrial development within the areas referred to in subsections (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this section is prohibited.

(d)

Trash and garbage. The dumping or depositing of trash, garbage or other refuse into such rivers or along the banks thereof is strictly prohibited.

(1991 LDR ch. 53, art. 4)