In accordance with the objectives of the comprehensive plan, and pursuant to the authority of Section 10.1-2100 et seq. of the Code of Virginia, this chapter is established and intended to promote the proper use, management and protection of the vast amounts of sensitive and unique lands which contribute to the economy of the region and the environmental quality of the county and especially the Chesapeake Bay. Specifically, these provisions are intended to implement the requirements of the Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act and to address the following objectives:

(a) Protect existing high quality state waters;

(b) Restore all other state waters to a condition or quality that will permit all reasonable public uses and will support the propagation and growth of all aquatic life, including game fish, which might reasonably be expected to inhabit them;

(c) Safeguard the clean waters of the Commonwealth from pollution;

(d) Prevent any increase in pollution;

(e) Reduce existing pollution; and

(f) Promote resource conservation in order to provide for the health, safety, and welfare of the present and future citizens of the county.

The effect of these provisions is not necessarily to preclude development or use of such areas but rather to ensure that the types of development permitted by the underlying zoning district will be undertaken with a deliberate and professionally responsible recognition of the particular environmental qualities and conditions of a proposed development site.

(Ord. No. 05-13(R), 5/17/05)