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27 Revised 10/03/2019 Ordinance Language Commentary and, if long duration flooding is anticipated, the structure is built to withstand ice action and wind-driven waves and debris. 8.0 VEGETATION AND LAND ALTERATIONS 8.1 Purpose. Alterations of vegetation and topography are regulated to prevent erosion into public waters, fix nutrients, preserve shoreland aesthetics, preserve historic values, prevent bank slumping, sustain water quality, and protect fish and wildlife habitat. 8.2 Vegetation Management. 8.21 Removal or alteration of vegetation must comply with the provisions of this subsection except for: A. Vegetation alteration necessary for the construction of structures and sewage treatment systems under validly issued permits for these facilities; B. The construction of public roads and parking areas if consistent with Section 7.1 of this ordinance; C. Forest management uses consistent with Section 5.3 of this ordinance; and D. Agricultural uses consistent with Section 5.2 of this ordinance. 8.22 Intensive vegetation clearing in the shore and bluff impact zones and on steep slopes is prohibited. Intensive clearing outside of these areas is allowed if consistent with the forest management standards in Section 5.3 of this ordinance. 8.23 Limited clearing and trimming of trees and shrubs in the shore and bluff impact zones and on steep slopes, is allowed to provide a view to the water from the principal dwelling and to accommodate the placement of stairways and landings, picnic areas, access paths, livestock watering areas, beach and watercraft access areas, and permitted water-oriented accessory structures or facilities, provided that: A. The screening of structures, vehicles, or other facilities as viewed from the water, assuming summer, leaf-on conditions, is not substantially reduced; B. Existing shading of water surfaces along rivers is preserved; C. Cutting debris or slash shall be scattered and not mounded on the ground; and D. Perennial ground cover is retained. E. Picnic areas, access paths, livestock watering areas, beaches and watercraft access areas are prohibited in bluff impact zones. 8.24 Removal of trees, limbs, or branches that are dead, diseased, dying, or pose safety hazards is allowed without a permit. 8.0. These standards prohibit or limit vegetation removal in specified areas. These are difficult to administer and enforce, and once vegetation has been removed there are no requirements to restore it. Communities concerned about the loss of riparian vegetation and habit, erosion control and aesthetics may consider establishing a requirement to maintain a riparian buffer and restoration to the required standard as a condition of any permit approval. This is one of the most important actions any community can take – See the Innovative Standards Webpage . 8.23 C, D, and E. Optional. These standards provide additional protection for vegetation and reduce land disturbance in bluff impact areas that enhance habitat and protect water quality.