Waterfront Uses

§ 415 Waterfront Uses

A. Purpose. The purpose of this Section and the specification of waterfront uses set forth in each zone is to provide regulations and standards for waterfront uses which are parallel to those set forth in "The State of Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program," as amended, and which identify uses associated with tidal and coastal pond waters by type, as associated with shoreland features and areas of historic and archaeological significance.

B. Standards for Particular Waterfront Uses.

1. Recreational Paths and Passive Recreational Uses. Paths shall not be constructed or used so as to cause breaching of dunes or disruption of wildlife habitats.

2. Rights-of-Way to Water. Existing access ways shall be maintained and new access ways constructed so as to control erosion and cause minimal change to the natural environment.

3. Shoreline Alterations. Shoreline alterations involving filling or modifying of the shore and/or shoreline features shall be carried out only for increased protection from storm winds and water or enhancement of beaches and other natural conditions.

4. Aquaculture. Aquaculture facilities and their use shall conform to accepted standards and procedures, the application of which shall be evidenced as part of Development Plan Review.

5. Docks, Ramps, and Accessory Use Structures. Docks, ramps, moorings and related marine service structures shall conform to accepted siting and engineering standards, the application of which shall be evidenced as part of Development Plan Review.

6. Marinas. (See § 414, Marinas.)

7. Warehouse and Storage Facilities. (See § 416, Warehouse and Storage Facilities.)

8. Parking Lots. (See § 420, Parking Lots.).

9. Other Waterfront Uses. (See § 401, General Criteria for Special Use Permits.)

C. Special Provision for Type 3 District. A municipally owned or controlled passenger boat facility to be used only under emergency conditions when the facilities of Old Harbor are inaccessible as a result of stormy weather or other dangerous circumstances as reasonably determined by the person directly responsible for operating the vessel using the emergency facility.