Pocomoke commission moves to adopt state-required Critical Area regulations and map

Pocomoke City staff told the Planning and Zoning Commission that the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Critical Area Commission recently identified portions of the city that require local Critical Area regulation and an updated boundary map. The commission voted to initiate adoption of the Critical Area regulations and map and to hold public hearings.

Staff said the state’s Critical Area program requires local governments to administer protections within 1,000 feet of regulated water bodies. Older mapping and subsequent remapping had left parts of Pocomoke either exempt or incorrectly mapped; state staff asked the city to adopt updated maps and regulations. The draft ordinance included standard Critical Area land classifications: Resource Conservation Area (RCA), Intensely Developed Area (IDA) and Limited Development Area (LDA). Staff said most affected parcels in Pocomoke fall within the IDA and are already developed, so the practical effect is likely limited to better stormwater controls and stricter standards for a small number of undeveloped lots on Newtown Boulevard and across Old Virginia Road.

During discussion, staff said mapping discrepancies remain in an undeveloped area north of the Lowe’s/Shed retail strip and along Newtown Boulevard and that the city is working with state mapping staff to correct them. Staff also warned of potential state enforcement and civil penalties (staff cited fines up to $10,000 for violations under state law) if local regulations are not adopted and enforced.

A motion to initiate the ordinance and map adoption passed with a unanimous vote. Staff said a public hearing would be scheduled at the next planning commission meeting about 30 days away, after which the matter will proceed to city council for final action.