Removal of earth products
(a) The removal from any premises of more than three cubic yards of sod, clay, loam, sand, gravel or rock in any one year is prohibited, except when incidental to and in connection with the construction of a building, structure, street or highway, public utility, state or municipal facility, subdivision or other activity authorized by this chapter. However, a use of premises for the excavation or removal of sand and gravel existing on the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter was derived may be continued if the operation has been in continuous use for three years or more on the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter was derived, notwithstanding any of the provisions contained in article VI of this chapter.
(b) Upon the completion of any earth removal from premises existing prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter was derived or authorized by this chapter or the zoning board of review, such premises shall be graded with topsoil and seeded in such a manner so as to prevent erosion, the blowing of soil or other harmful or detrimental conditions. Removal of soil or other earth products other than specifically permitted in this chapter shall be classified as stripping and is prohibited.
(Rev. Ords. 1987, § 19-116; Ch. 453, § VI, 7-15-08)