Description
A shoreland ordinance sets standards for development and land use along shorelines and riparian corridors, including numerous factors such as setbacks, agricultural and forestry practices, sanitary systems, vegetation clearing, and erosion control. It is usually administered as an overlay zone - additional standards are imposed on the property in addition to those imposed by the base zoning.
Strengths
Shorelines are dynamic, risky, and vulnerable locations, requiring sound management.
Weaknesses
Shoreline property is expensive because proximity to the water is deemed to be a development amenity. Imposing additional restrictions on the use of riparian property and requiring additional stringent engineering practices may further raise riparian land and development costs.
Examples
Example 1: Minnesota
MN DNR Shoreland Management Standards
Description: Minnesota's Alternative Shoreland Management Standards
Example 2: Michigan
Description: Michigan Natural Shoreline Partnership
Example 3: La Valle, WI
Description: The small town in Sauk County has a shoreland protection ordinance for it's community.
Photo Credit: Russel Group