Coastal Development: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do coastal development rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
The Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program, codified at Natural Resources Article 8-1801 et seq., restricts development within 1,000 feet of tidal waters and tidal wetlands statewide.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
The Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Critical Area Protection Program, codified at Natural Resources Article 8-1801 et seq., restricts development within 1,000 feet of tidal waters and tidal wetlands statewide.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Statute | Natural Resources 8-1801 | Natural Resources 8-1801 |
| Critical Area | 1,000 ft from tidal waters | 1,000 ft from tidal waters |
| Buffer | 100 feet minimum | 100 feet minimum |
| Mitigation | Often 3:1 or greater | Often 3:1 or greater |
| Penalty | Up to $10,000/violation | Up to $10,000/violation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
What is Maryland's Critical Area Buffer?
A 100-foot vegetated buffer measured from the mean high water line of tidal waters and tidal wetlands. New structures and disturbance are generally prohibited within it.
Can I get a variance to build in the Critical Area?
Variances are possible only when strict application creates unwarranted hardship. Approval requires Critical Area Commission concurrence and substantial mitigation, and is rarely granted.
Rockville FAQ
What is Maryland's Critical Area Buffer?
A 100-foot vegetated buffer measured from the mean high water line of tidal waters and tidal wetlands. New structures and disturbance are generally prohibited within it.
Can I get a variance to build in the Critical Area?
Variances are possible only when strict application creates unwarranted hardship. Approval requires Critical Area Commission concurrence and substantial mitigation, and is rarely granted.
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