A. Site Analysis. An analysis shall be made of characteristics of the development site, such as site context, geology and soil, topography, ecology, existing vegetation, structures, and road networks, visual features, and past and present use of the site.

B. Site Design Considerations. Site design shall take into consideration all existing local and regional plans, and shall be based on the site analysis. To the extent practical, development shall be located to preserve any natural features on the site, to avoid areas of environmental sensitivity, to minimize negative impacts and alteration of natural features, to avoid adversely affecting ground water and aquifer recharge, to reduce cut and fill, to avoid unnecessary impervious cover, to prevent flooding, to provide adequate access to lots and sites, and to mitigate adverse effects of shadow, noise, odor, traffic, drainage, and utilities on neighboring properties.

The following specific areas and resources shall be preserved to the extent consistent with the reasonable utilization of the site.

1. Unique and/or fragile areas, including wetlands as defined in Sec. 404, Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972, as determined by the U.S. Corps of Engineers.

2. Trees thirty (30”) or more DBH (Diameter Breast High).

3. Flood plain areas, as determined by FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and delineated on flood boundary and floodway maps for Colleton County.

4. Habitats of endangered wildlife, as identified on federal and state lists.

5. Historically significant structures and sites, as listed on federal, state, and/or local lists of historical places. (Ord. 99-O-25 § 7.2, 1999)