Critical Area Commission for the Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays

Proposed Regulations

Updates to Title 27 Regulations

The Commission is proposing to:

  1. Update the definition of “buffer” so it is consistent with the Maryland Department of the Environment’s description of where the limit of tidal wetlands is located;
  2. Update the definition of “application” to include buffer management plans so they are required to be submitted as part of an application to the Commission;
  3. Insert language requiring a local government to submit final approved buffer management plans for all shore erosion control projects which is tied to new requirements in recently adopted regulations by the Maryland Department of the Environment; and
  4. Require a local government to submit a proposed and final major buffer management plan for site plans and subdivisions.

These regulations are available for viewing in the Maryland Register on Friday, March 22, 2013. To view the proposed regulations click here.

The public comment period for these regulations will end on Monday, April 22, 2013.

To submit comments, click here

NEW PUBLICATION!

This new publication was developed to assist homeowners with planting and maintaining shoreline Buffers. It includes lots of information about the importance of the Critical Area Buffer and includes Buffer Management Plans that can be used to satisfy Buffer planting requirements for new construction on waterfront lots.

Cover of Bay Smart Guide, links to web content
A Citizen's Guide to
Maryland's Critical Area Program

For general questions ...

... or information about the Critical Area Program or questions relating to State oversight of local programs, e-mail Mary Owens or call 410-260-3480.

Critical Area Commissison address & phone number