Coastal Development: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do coastal development rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg and Takoma Park 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 →Takoma Park, 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 Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Takoma Park 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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