1. Provide Protection

• Remove nutrients
• Filter sediment
• Trap pollutants
• Reduce erosion
• Slow velocity of runoff, allow infiltration
• Reduce economic loss from floods

2. Provide Habitat

• Home to plant and animal species
• Shade - thermal protection of stream
• Provide large woody and leaf debris (instream habitat and food)

3. Provide Aesthetic Value

• Absorb noise from waterfront activities
• Provide privacy
• Provide recreational value, such as fishing and birdwatching

The City of Greensboro’s Land Development Ordinance Section under 30-12-3.9, Stream Buffers Required, requires protective stream buffers along perennial and intermittent streams, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs to help safeguard water quality, reduce erosion, and protect aquatic habitat. These buffers are regulated, consisting of defined zones with specific width, vegetation, and activity restrictions.

In general, stream buffers must remain vegetated, allow stormwater to enter as diffuse flow, and limit new development or disturbance, unless explicitly allowed by ordinance or approved through a formal review and mitigation process. Requirements vary based on watershed designation and whether a low-density or high-density development option is used.

*Click to enlarge the chart/diagrams below.

North Carolina Riparian Buffer Rules Brochure:

• English
• Español (Spanish)
• 中国人 Zhōngguó rén (Chinese)
• 한국인 hangug-in (Korean)
• Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese)

North Carolina Buffer Information:

• Riparian Buffer Protection Program website
• 401 & Buffer Permitting Statutes & Rules website

*Click to enlarge the map below.

Map showing the locations of the 6 Riparian Buffer Protection Programs.