§ 8.4.5. Wildlife development standards.

A.

Except as provided in subsection 8.4.5.B below, all new development must be designed so it does not adversely impact wildlife and wildlife habitats or that such adverse impacts have been avoided or mitigated to the maximum extent practicable. The review criteria used to determine if this standard has been met are in subsection 8.4.6. For proposed developments that will or may have an adverse impact on wildlife and wildlife habitats, an approved wildlife conservation plan is required.

B.

For subdivisions, conservation developments, planned land divisions, multifamily developments or nonresidential developments of less than two acres; for site plan reviews of buildings or additions having a gross floor area of 10,000 square feet or less; and for all proposed developments not required to submit a wildlife conservation plan, the following standards apply:

1.

Buffers. All development must have a minimum setback of 100 feet from any identified important wildlife habitat area unless the division of wildlife specifies a greater distance based on the presence of specified wildlife species;

2.

Nonnative plants and animals. Only plant species native to Larimer County or that are on an approved county landscaping list (see the technical supplement to this code) may be introduced on sites containing important wildlife habitat areas. To the maximum extent feasible, existing herbaceous and woody cover on sites must be maintained and removal of native vegetation must be minimized. Only animal species approved by the division of wildlife may be introduced on sites containing important wildlife habitat areas;

3.

Refuse disposal. Developments on sites containing important wildlife habitat, such as black bear, must use county-approved, animal-proof refuse disposal containers;

4.

Fencing. Fencing on sites containing important wildlife habitat cannot exceed four feet high unless the planning director approves the fencing to confine permitted domestic animals or to protect permitted ornamental landscaping or gardens. The planning director will determine the type of fencing (materials, opacity, etc.) appropriate for the wildlife species on the site based on advice from the division of wildlife ( Note: All fences over six feet high require a permit from the building department);

5.

Domestic animals. Development applications for property that includes important wildlife habitat must include a plan with specified enforcement measures for the control of domestic animals and household pets. The plan must include provisions to prevent the harassment, disturbance and killing of wildlife and to prevent the destruction of important wildlife habitat;

6.

Exterior lighting. Use of exterior lighting must be minimized in areas of important wildlife habitat. Lighting must be designed so it does not spill over onto habitat. All exterior lighting must be shielded by cutoffs with an angle not exceeding 90 degrees.