26.02.090 Geologically hazardous areas | Garfield Municipal Code

26.02.090 Geologically hazardous areas.

(1) A minimum 25-foot buffer shall be established from the top, toe or sides of an identified geological hazard (as identified by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Department of Natural Resources), including landslide hazard areas, seismic hazard areas. mine hazard areas, landfills or steep slope areas (40 percent or greater), except as specified below. The buffer may be increased if necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare, based on information contained in geotechnical report prepared by a qualified professional engineer.

(2) Buffer zones may be decreased in size provided the geotechnical report substantiates the following findings:

(a) The proposed development will not create a hazard to the subject property, surrounding properties or rights-of-way, erosion or sedimentation to off-site properties or bodies of water.

(b) The proposal uses construction techniques that minimize destruction of existing topography and natural vegetation.

(d) Monitoring procedures shall be conducted for construction activities, which occur in geologically hazardous areas.

(3) The following activities are allowed in seismic and mine hazard areas:

(a) Construction of new buildings with less than 2,500 square feet of floor area or roof area, whichever is greater, and which are not residential structures or used as places of employment or public assembly;

(b) Additions to existing single-story residences that are 250 square feet or less;