Washington DC regulates waterfront development along the Potomac and Anacostia rivers through Subtitle C of the 11 DCMR Zoning Regulations, the Anacostia Waterfront Development Zone (AWDZ), and the Comprehensive Plan's waterfront elements.
DC's zoning code (11 DCMR) includes Waterfront zone designations (W-1, W-2, W-3) that regulate development from the bulkhead line to the pierhead line. The Anacostia Waterfront Development Zone requires sites to implement Best Management Practices for stormwater and meet enhanced environmental performance standards. The Comprehensive Plan's Lower Anacostia Waterfront/Near Southwest Area Element (Subtitle 10-A, Chapter 19) guides development along the Southwest Waterfront. Development must preserve waterfront views, enhance public access to the shoreline, and include public promenades. The DC Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) oversees environmental compliance for waterfront projects, while the Office of Zoning administers the zoning regulations.
Violations of waterfront zoning or AWDZ requirements may result in stop-work orders, denial of building permits, and fines. Non-compliant stormwater management triggers DOEE enforcement actions.
Washington, DC
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See how Washington's shoreline management rules stack up against other locations.
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