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I'm not sure how "little known" it is - this is where using a good contractor who knows and abides by the rules is key. When we put a patio in our yard a few years ago our contractor discussed this rule with us. If it were "little known" he wouldn't know about it.
He did mention that there would be problems with some of these postage stamp subdivisions, though, if I recall correctly.
I knew someone who lived in south Durham who was unable to build a screened porch on his house because the developer had paved over too much of the overall land. One of his options was to tear up his driveway and put in a permeable surface. He had a fairly good sized lot compared to the size of his house, so it was pretty surprising that there was an issue.
I knew someone who lived in south Durham who was unable to build a screened porch on his house because the developer had paved over too much of the overall land. One of his options was to tear up his driveway and put in a permeable surface. He had a fairly good sized lot compared to the size of his house, so it was pretty surprising that there was an issue.
The *percentage* of the maximum amount of land that can be impervious surface area also varies by zoning. The various watershed zoning requirements in Durham can limit the amount of impervious surface area from 6% to 24% depending on zoning classification (F/J-A, F/J-B, E-B).
Since stormwater runoff effects water quality - the closer you are to Falls Lake, etc. the tighter the restriction.
To add to the confusion, the definition of what is considered impervious has changed. I believe swimming pools and slatted decks w/o roofs are still considered pervious. Various "pavement" technologies have been developed that attempt to qualify as pervious - I would assume these need local approval to be counted as such.
I'm not sure how "little known" it is - this is where using a good contractor who knows and abides by the rules is key. When we put a patio in our yard a few years ago our contractor discussed this rule with us. If it were "little known" he wouldn't know about it.
"Little known" to the news media most likely means "not known to most people who could be impacted by it", which is probably most homeowners.
The homeowner in the news story bought the home that way, which means that the builder and all contractors involved in the initial home construction were apparently unaware.
So, if it can slip by anyone that far I think it needs more awareness. Especially if the trend is going to be ridiculously large homes sitting on tiny lots.
the rule mostly applies to homes within various watershed classifications. In Bedford, it's been known about for at least 5 years. If he didn't know, then he had his head in the impervious surface.
the rule mostly applies to homes within various watershed classifications. In Bedford, it's been known about for at least 5 years. If he didn't know, then he had his head in the impervious surface.
Yea, but *if* the story is true he didn't add any impervious surfaces after he bought the house. So its reasonable for him to believe that the house was compliant when he purchased it. But assuming that government is accountable for its actions is indeed a rookie mistake
Yea, but *if* the story is true he didn't add any impervious surfaces after he bought the house. So its reasonable for him to believe that the house was compliant when he purchased it. But assuming that government is accountable for its actions is indeed a rookie mistake
Frank
I would like to see his property survey at time of purchase. Just to see how impervious surfaces were noted.
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