Forest Conservation Act Process

SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENTS

City of Annapolis Forest Conservation Act

This ordinance applies when a property owner with more than 40,000 square feet of land makes application for a subdivision, grading permit, planned development, special exception, or site design. It does not apply to property in the Critical Area.

City of Annapolis Forest Conservation Act

Finding  Projects Under Review

Visit the Online Permit, Plan, and Licensing Portal: Citizen Self Service (CSS) for more information.

instructions

The Process

At the beginning of the process, the applicant will submit a Forest Stand Delineation (FSD) to the Department of Planning and Zoning. A FSD shows and evaluates existing vegetation on a site proposed for development, taking into account the environmental elements that shape or influence the structure or makeup of a plant community.

After the FSD is approved, the applicant submits a preliminary Forest Conservation Plan (FCP). This plan provides specifics for retaining and protecting existing natural resource areas and provides for new tree plantings and their maintenance to ensure survival during construction.

Compliance

Here is the process for complying with O-22-16:

  1. Applicant submits a FSD
  2. The FSD is posted on the City’s website (Online Permit and Project Center) within 3 business days for at least 15 days
  3. Within 5 business days, the applicant posts a public notice sign on the property. The sign must remain until a final administrative decision on the FCP has been rendered
  4. Applicant notified within 30 days whether FSD is complete and correct
  5. Recommended review of concept FCP with City Staff
  6. Applicant submits planning application with preliminary FCP
  7. The FCP is posted on City’s website for at least fifteen calendar days
  8. Public meeting on Preliminary FCP
  9. Applicant submits final FCP
  10. Applicant notified within 45 days if FCP is complete and acceptable
  11. Final FCP posted on City’s website within 3 days of approval
  12. The public notice sign must be removed by the applicant within 7 days of approval of the FCP.