Northeast Ohio has led the state in the adoption of ordinances that establish setback requirements from streams and wetlands.  Buried within municipal codes is the requirement to stay out of buffer areas surrounding streams and wetlands. 

Homeowners, businesses and developers often learn of these requirements after they go to the City with their designs for

Municipalities and counties are utilizing riparian and wetland setbacks in their zoning and planning efforts on a more frequent basis.  Setbacks can be an effective tool to control growth, protect valuable natural resources as well as meet federal and state Phase II stormwater requirements. 

While setbacks are beneficial, officials must understand the level of impact on both