Inlet Hazard Area Information

April 17, 2023 - Inlet Hazard Area Update
The agenda for the April 25-26 CRAC and CRC Meetings in Manteo can be found by using the link below:

https://www.deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/coastal-management/coastal-resources-commission/crc-meeting-agendas-and-minutes/april-2023-meeting-agenda

Two important items are on the agenda.

1. Oceanfront Erosion Rate Method & Inlet Hazard Areas.  Due to the multiple requests to re-evaluate the methods used toe determine IHA boundaries and to include data collected since the 2019 study, DCM staff is recommending that the CRC consider temporarily postponing adoption of the 2019 updated IHA boundaries and issuing a new charge to the Science Panel on Coastal Hazards.  If this recommendation is adopted by the CRC, Staff would work with the Science Panel to bring back recommendations in summer 2024.

2. Exception for Lots Platted Post-1979.  This proposed amendment would allow lots platted after 1979 to be eligible for the “small structure exception”.  This would allow lots that cannot meet the required erosion rate-based construction setback but can meet a minimum 60-foot setback to construct a structure with a maximum floor area of 2,000 square feet along with other requirements.

For specific questions regarding these two items please contact Ken Richardson, Shoreline Management Specialist with the NC Division of Coastal Management at [email protected] or by phone at 252-515-5433.


April 26, 2023 CRC Meeting Update
During the CRC hearing held today, the Commission voted to accept DCM staff recommendation that the CRC temporarily postpone adoption of the 2019 update IHA boundaries.  DCM staff will work with the Science Panel to complete the Charge and provide the Commission updated IHA maps, rules, and erosion rates, along with DCM’s recommendation for corresponding IHA use standards in Summer 2024.  

DCM staff also proposed during todays meeting amendments to 07H.0309(b) to remove the 1000 square feet footprint, retain the total floor area of 2000 square feet and remove the June 1, 1979 stipulation.  This would make the .0309 exception applicable to all oceanfront and inlet areas, except for unvegetated beach areas. For those that cannot meet the minimum setback for larger structures, they could potentially utilize this exception for a structure up to 2000 square feet if the other conditions outlined above are met.  This amendment addresses the primary concern related to the earlier repeal of 07H.0104, while removing the complexity of tracking past erosion rates and recognizing the dates that lots were platted during Minor Permit review.   This request will be sent to public hearing.