§ 33-6-112. FOREST CONSERVATION THRESHOLD.

(a)

In general.

(1)

There is a forest conservation threshold established for all land use categories, as provided in subsection (b) of this section.

(2)

The forest conservation threshold means the percentage of the net tract area at which the reforestation requirement changes from a ratio of one-fourth acre planted for each acre removed above the threshold to a ratio of 2 acres planted for each acre removed below the threshold.

(b)

Percentages. After reasonable efforts to minimize the cutting or clearing of trees and other woody plants have been investigated in the preparation of a development or subdivision plan, a project plan, and plans for grading and sediment control activities, the forest conservation plan shall provide for reforestation, or payment into the Baltimore County Forest Conservation Fund, according to the formula set forth in this section and consistent with § 33-6-107 of this title, and according to the following forest conservation thresholds for the applicable land use category:

Category of Use	Threshold Percentage
(1) Agricultural and resource areas	50 %
(2) Medium density residential areas	25 %
(3) Institutional development areas	20 %
(4) High density residential areas	20 %
(5) Mixed use development and Planned Unit Development areas	15 %
(6) Commercial and industrial use areas	15 %

 

(c)

Reforestation ratio. For all existing forest cover measured to the nearest one-tenth acre cleared on the net tract area above the applicable forest conservation threshold, the area of forest removed shall be reforested at a ratio of one-fourth acre planted for each acre removed.

(d)

Credit.

(1)

Each acre of forest retained on the net tract area above the applicable forest conservation threshold shall be credited against the total number of acres required to be reforested under subsection (c) of this section.

(2)

The calculation of the credit shall be according to the criteria provided in the Forest Conservation Technical Manual.

(e)

Existing forest cover. For all existing forest cover measured to the nearest one-tenth acre cleared on the net tract area below the applicable forest conservation threshold, the area of forest removed shall be reforested at a ratio of 2 acres planted for each acre removed below the threshold.

(1988 Code, § 14-411) (Bill No. 224, 1992, § 1, 1-19-1993; Bill No. 94-02, § 2, 7-1-2004)