Session IV Planning

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Session IVPlanning Construction

• Grace Lawrence

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Overview

• Todays session is to provide information on the
  construction process.
• Jurisdiction, permits, construction methods and
  design are site specific.

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Topics Covered

• Signage
• Permitting
• ADA Access
• Construction Techniques
• Resources
• Examples

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Safety

• The most important aspect of paddling is safety.
• Safety entails much more than boater safety.
• Safety starts in planning.

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Safety

• Design of safe accesses is imperative.
• Impeding traffic, parking on the shoulder, and
  transporting boats along or across non designated
  thoroughfares is unsafe and unacceptable.

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Design Considerations

• Signage

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NC DOT Signage
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NC DOT Signage

• Water Access Recreation signs shall be designed,
  located, and erected according to the standards
  of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices,
  the North Carolina Supplement to the MUTCD, and
  the North Carolina Roadway Standard Drawings.

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NC DOT Signage

• CRITERIA
• All Water Access Recreation signs are to be in
  compliance with Section 2H.04 of the MUTCD for
  Recreation and Cultural Interest signing and
  shall have a white message and border on a brown
  background with retro-reflective sheeting.
• Water Access Recreation signs are to be installed
  from nearest US, NC or SR route to the water
  recreation site and/or facility not to exceed
  five (5) miles.

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NC DOT Signage

• Signing will not be permitted on full control
  access facilities. However, signing may be
  allowed from the interchange ramp terminus.
• Appropriate educational plaques, directional
  arrows, and directional guide signs may be used
  when signing to water access recreational sites
  and/or facilities. Any additional word messages
  will require approval by NCDOT and be restricted
  to a 24"x 12" panel.

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NC DOT Signage

• Criteria continued
• All costs associated with the manufacturing,
  erecting, and maintenance of approved water
  access recreation signage will be the
  responsibility of NCDOT or the City/County
  requesting the signs.
• All requests are to be forwarded to the
  appropriate Division Engineer for review.

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NC DOT Signage

• The Division Engineer or his designated
  representative will have the final authority to
  determine the actual number and location of the
  signs.
• NCDOT will reserve the right to remove or
  relocate any of the signs where the requirements
  for the signs are no longer met or where the
  location is interfering with the placement of any
  standard regulatory, warning or guide sign.

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NC Wildlife Resources Commission Signage
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Buoys NCWRC places on state waterbodies
 
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ESTABLISHING LOCAL WATER SAFETY RULES

• North Carolina General Statute 75A-15 governs the
  adoption of local water safety rules.
• Only a unit of local government (county or city),
  or an agency empowered by authority of local
  government (such as a marine commission) with
  jurisdiction over the area in question may
  request the WRC to promulgate local water safety
  regulations.

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ESTABLISHING LOCAL WATER SAFETY RULES

• Requests for most water markers must comply with
  the requirements outlined in Form D1.
• For examples of local government resolutions,
  click here for county and here for city.
• Establishing a new water safety rule takes
  approximately 18 months.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• 1. The Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) must
  receive
• a. A written request from the local governmental
  unit with territorial jurisdiction of the area in
  question requesting a local water safety
  regulation. b. A certified copy of a resolution
  for the zone adopted by the local governmental
  unit. Public Notice of the local government's
  intention to adopt such a resolution is required.
  

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• c. A completed Form D-1 (Form D-1 designates the
  local governmental unit responsible for markers).
  d. Two copies of a map of the waters in question
  showing the exact location and type of markers
  that are necessary for enforcement of the
  proposed rule.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• 2. An investigation will be conducted by the
  Wildlife Commission's Enforcement Division to
  determine the basis of need for and advisability
  of the proposed rule.
• 3. If the Enforcement Officer's investigation
  indicates that the proposed rule is necessary to
  address a water safety hazard, the proposal is
  presented to the Wildlife Commission.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• 4. If the WRC approves the proposal, a public
  hearing will be scheduled and notice published,
  along with the proposed text of the Rule in the
  NCR. The WRC will receive public comment. When
  public comment has been duly considered and the
  determination is made to proceed, the text of the
  proposed rule is presented to the WRC for final
  adoption.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• 5. Following adoption, the permanent rule is
  submitted to the Rules Review Commission (RRC)
  for approval. If the RRC approves the rule, it
  usually becomes effective within a month of that
  approval.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• Please note Applicants from the coastal counties
  must obtain a Coastal Area Management Act CAMA
  permit from the Division of Coastal Management
  DCM in order to place a buoy in navigable
  waters there. (A no wake zone will not be
  enforced in the absence of a proper buoy marker.
  )

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• The application should state whether the funds
  for the No Wake Zone buoys will be provided
  privately or whether the local government in
  question is purchasing the markers.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• No Wake Zone buoys, which may be purchased at
  marine supply stores, must conform to the
  standards of the Uniform State Waterway Marking
  system. (Signs on land are not sufficient indicia
  for a no wake zone)

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• If, after investigation, the North Carolina
  Wildlife Resources Commission authorizes a no
  wake zone for a coastal county, the applicant
  county must contact the DCM district manager to
  apply for such a CAMA Major Permit. Please see
  http//dcm2.enr.state.nc.us/contact_dcm.htm for a
  list of the district offices and contact
  information for their district managers.

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DESIGNATING LOCAL WATER SAFETY ZONES BY RULE

• Any questions about this process should be
  referred to Joan Troy, [phone] or
  joan.troy_at_ncwildlife.org.

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Design Considerations

• Boating Access Rules

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• Boating access areas are designed, constructed,
  and maintained by the Wildlife Resource
  Commission's Engineering Division for public use.
  Compliance with the following boating access area
  laws will go a long way toward keeping these
  areas clean, safe, and for all to enjoy.

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• It is unlawful to
• Leave any vehicle, trailer, boat or other
  obstruction where it will impede the use of the
  ramp by others.
• Park any vehicles, trailer or boat anywhere on
  the area other than the designated parking zone.
  This does not prohibit legal use of the ramp.
• Use the area for swimming, camping, operating
  concessions or for any use other than the
  launching and recovery of boats and parking of
  vehicles and boat trailers, except where
  facilities for a particular use are provided.
• Operate any vessel within 50 yards of the ramp at
  a speed greater than "No Wake" speed.

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• Possess loaded firearms on the access area.
• Operate a vehicle on any boat access area in a
  manner so as to endanger life or property.
• Deposit any debris or refuse anywhere on the
  grounds of the area.
• Fail to obey any instruction or signs regulating
  use of the access area.
• Conduct any special event, such as fishing
  tournament weigh-in, without first obtaining a
  letter of authorization from the Division of
  Engineering Services by calling [phone].
  This permit must be available for inspection by
  wildlife enforcement officers during the event.
  See information about weigh-in permits here.
• Park in handicapped space without displaying
  handicapped plate or sign.

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Design Considerations

• CoastASyst
• Environmental Impact Statements
• Permits

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CoastASyst

• There are four points to consider when building
  or repairing a dock
• 1. Rules and regulations of the North Carolina
  Coastal Resources Commission, which are
  administered by the North Carolina Department of
  Environment and Natural Resources, Division of
  Coastal Management.
• 2. Rules and regulations of the local government
  (county or municipality).

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CoastASyst

• 3. Environmental impacts associated with the
  lumber, location, and construction on the shores,
  wetlands, and waters.
• 4. How maintenance of the dock can affect water
  quality.

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CoastASyst

• 1. Circle the answer that best describes how you
  balance building a dock with following CAMA
  rules.
• a. I follow the CAMA rules, use a licensed marine
  contractor, and consider the environmental impact
  the dock will have on the surrounding area.
• b. I follow CAMA rules but haven't considered the
  environmental impact.
• c. I follow CAMA rules but will put in the dock
  regardless of impact.
• d. I don't know about CAMA.

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CoastASyst

• If you answer a question either a or b, you have
  few problems with pollution.
• If you answer a question either c or d, there may
  be potential problems with pollution and you
  should consider making changes in order to
  protect the coastal waters surrounding your dock.

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CoastASyst

• If you would like further help in assessing the
  impact of your dock, please contact your nearest
  Cooperative Extension Center and talk with your
  Extension agent.

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CoastASyst

• A homeowner who wants to build a dock must
  contact the DCM. The following information should
  be included with the application
• Original and dated work plat of the project.
• Names and addresses of adjacent property owners
  and signed receipts from them of notification of
  the project or a written statement signed by
  adjacent riparian property owners acknowledging
  and having no objections to the project.

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CoastASyst

• For more information
• You must receive a permit from the DCM before
  constructing a dock or pier.
• The local DCM office near you can provide you
  with additional information about dock and pier
  construction. Please refer to the offices listed
  above. You can call 1-800-4RCOAST or go online to
  http//dcm2.enr.state.nc.us/ 
• Sea Grant has publications and staff available
  for assistance in dock and pier construction.
  Call 919-515-2454 and 910-92-2491 or go online to
  http//www.ncsu.edu/seagrant/extension/CoastalEng/
  CoastalEng.htm

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CoastASyst

• What is the North Carolina CoastASyst Program?

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CoastASyst

• The North Carolina CoastASyst program is a
  series of publications that can help you in
  becoming a good coastal environmental steward and
  protect the health and well-being of your family.
  

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CoastASyst

• This publication leads you through an evaluation
  of your home and property to determine the
  pollution and health risks of your development
  and construction practices. It also provides
  information on solving potential problems that
  you may identify.
• The publications also list the North Carolina
  state agencies responsible for helping you solve
  your particular problems.

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CoastASyst

• This CoastASyst program is modeled after the
  South Carolina CoastASyst program. South
  Carolina was the first state to develop such a
  program.
• The goal of the North Carolina CoastASyst
  program is to help protect the health of you and
  your family and the coastal environment of North
  Carolina.

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NC SEA GRANT
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EIS Permits

• The project must comply with all local planning
  and zoning ordinances.
• An Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental
  Impact Statement (EIS) will be needed.

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EIS Permits

• If you arent in a CAMA county, you will need a
  US Army Corps of Engineers permit.
• You may also need a US Army COE permit in a CAMA
  county.

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Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS)

• For a proposed project or activity, an
  Environmental Assessment (EA) or an Environmental
  Impact Statement (EIS) must be prepared. 
• Generally, an environmental assessment is
  prepared for a proposed project or activity. 

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Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS)

• If the environmental document does not satisfy a
  Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI), then an
  EIS must be prepared. 

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Environmental Assessment (EA) or Environmental
Impact Statement (EIS)

• If a project or activity will require an
  environmental document, but there are questions
  as to the type of environmental document that
  must be prepared, please contact the appropriate
  agency for guidance.   

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Possible Permits for Coastal Environment Quality





Name Description
Coastal Area Management (General Permits) Development in the 20 coastal counties. This permit is issued through the DCM field offices. See Contact List below to determine appropriate field office.

Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Major and DredgeFill Permits Development in or adjacent to the estuarine or public trust waters, tidelands, or marshlands of the state.

Coastal Area Management Act (CAMA) Minor Development Permit Minor permits are required for projects, such as single-family houses, that don't require major permits or general permits. To obtain a minor permit application, contact your coastal local government office. See Contact List below.

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Possible Permits for Coastal Environment Quality

This list is only a general guideline.  Specifics about your facility such as size, location, and types of processes often influence these determinations.  For personal assistance in determining which permits may apply, contact a permit assistance coordinator.

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 Regional Offices

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         


Permit Coordination Offices
DENR Mooresville Regional Office 919 North Main StreetMooresville, North Carolina 28115704-799-2987  DENR Wilmington Regional Office127 Cardinal Drive ExtensionWilmington, North Carolina 28405910-790-2317
Or call the DENR Customer Service Centertollfree at 1-877-623-6748  
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CAMA Counties


         
                                    
If your project is in one of the 20 coastal
counties listed below, a coastal permit may be
required.  Click below to see coastal permits.
Beaufort Bertie
Brunswick Camden
Carteret Chowan
Craven Currituck
Dare Gates
Hertford Hyde
New Hanover Onslow
Pamlico Pasquotank
Pender Perquimans
Tyrrell Washington
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CAMA Permits

• The Coastal Area Management Act requires permits
  for development in Areas of Environmental Concern
  (AEC). You must obtain a CAMA permit for your
  project if it meets all of the following
  conditions
• it is in one of the 20 counties covered by CAMA
• it is considered "development" under CAMA
• it is in, or it affects, an Area of Environmental
  Concern established by the Coastal Resources
  Commission
• it doesn't qualify for an exemption.

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CAMA Permits

• "Development" includes activities such as
  dredging or filling coastal wetlands or waters,
  and construction of marinas, piers, docks,
  bulkheads, oceanfront structures and roads.

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CAMA Permits

• Types of Permits
• The Division of Coastal Management makes permit
  decisions after considering agency and public
  comments, and after determining whether a
  proposed project meets CRC rules and the local
  government's land-use plan.

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CAMA Permits

• Major permits are necessary for activities that
  require other state or federal permits, for
  projects that cover more than 20 acres or for
  construction covering more than 60,000 square
  feet. Applications for major permits are reviewed
  by 10 state and four federal agencies before a
  decision is made.

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CAMA Permits

• General permits are used for routine projects
  that usually pose little or no threat to the
  environment.
• Minor permits are required for projects, such as
  single-family houses, that don't require major
  permits or general permits. They are reviewed,
  issued and administered to CRC standards by local
  governments under contract with the Division of
  Coastal Management.

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CAMA Permits

• The minor permit program is part of the CRC's
  efforts to minimize the burden on permit
  applicants. Under CAMA regulations, a minor
  permit is to be issued within 25 days once a
  complete application is in hand. If the project
  is simple, the review process often is shorter.

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CAMA Permit Enforcement

• CAMA permits are intended to protect the
  environment, public trust rights and the economy
  of the North Carolina coast.
• You are in violation of CAMA when you begin
  development in an Area of Environmental Concern
  without a valid CAMA permit, or if any of your
  CAMA-permitted work does not comply with the
  issued permit.
• Under CRC rules, you may be fined up to 2,500
  per day for violations. Such fines are known as
  "civil penalties."

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CAMA Permits

• Docks and Piers
• Docks and piers serve important functions along
  the coast, allowing access to water for
  recreational and commercial boating, swimming,
  diving, fishing and transportation. If poorly
  designed, however, docks and piers can obstruct
  navigation and the water circulation that
  sustains an estuary's natural systems.

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CAMA Permits

• The type of permit you will need for a dock or
  pier varies with the size of the structure. See
  the tables in Appendix A to help you determine
  the type of permit you may need.
• All docks and piers must meet the general CAMA
  rules for coastal wetlands, estuarine waters and
  public trust areas and the following specific
  regulations 15A NCAC 7H .0208(b)(6)

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CAMA Permits

• Docks and piers cannot be wider than 6 feet.
  Wider docks and piers may be permitted only if
  the greater width is necessary for safe use, to
  improve public access, or to support a
  water-dependent use that cannot otherwise occur.
• Piers in existence on or before July 1, 2001, may
  be braced with additional pilings and crossbeams
  to prevent or minimize storm damage, as long as
  the pilings do not extend more than 2 feet beyond
  either side of the pier.
• Piers extending more than 100 feet past the marsh
  vegetation or the shoreline must not extend
  beyond the length of existing piers used for
  similar purposes along the same shoreline.

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CAMA Permits

• Piers must not extend into the channel portion of
  the water body.
• Piers must not extend more than one-fourth the
  width of a natural water body or man-made canal
  or basin (see Figure 4.9), except in cases where
  there is a federally established pier-head line
  or if the pier is located between longer piers
  within 200 feet of your property. However, if you
  qualify for one of these exceptions, your pier
  cannot be longer than adjacent piers and cannot
  in any case extend more than one-third the width
  of the water body.

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CAMA Permits

• Pier alignments along federally maintained
  channels must meet U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
  guidelines, available from the Corps' district
  office in Wilmington.
• There are limits on the combined area of all
  T-heads, finger piers, platforms and decks, and
  those limits vary based on the type of permit you
  obtain. See the tables in Appendix A for more
  information.
• Docks, piers and T-heads must be elevated at
  least 3 feet over the coastal wetland substrate,
  as measured from the bottom of the decking.

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CAMA Permits

• Boathouses may not be larger than 400 square
  feet, unless you can demonstrate a need for a
  larger boathouse. (A larger boathouse requires a
  major permit.)
• Boathouse walls may cover only the top half of
  the boathouse (from the roofline). The bottom
  half must remain open.
• Boathouses are not allowed on lots with less than
  75 linear feet of shoreline.

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CAMA Permits

• The total area of a boat lift cannot be larger
  than 400 square feet.
• Piers, docks, decks, platforms and boathouses
  must be single-story. They may have roofs, but
  must not be designed for second-story use.

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CAMA Permits

• Piers must not interfere with access to any
  riparian property and shall have a setback of at
  least 15 feet between any part of the pier and
  the adjacent property owners' areas of riparian
  access. The dividing line for areas of riparian
  access shall be established by drawing a line
  along the channel or deep water in front of the
  properties, then drawing a line perpendicular to
  the line of the channel so that it intersects
  with the shore at the point the upland property
  line meets the water's edge (see Figure 4.10).
  The 15-foot setback requirement may be waived by
  a written agreement of the adjacent riparian
  property owners or when owners apply for a CAMA
  permit together.

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CAMA Permits

• In areas where the shoreline is irregular, such
  as the end of a canal, DCM field representatives
  are responsible for determining the projection of
  the riparian property lines into the water, and
  will assist property owners in determining pier
  alignment.
• Docks and piers must not significantly interfere
  with water flows, which could lead to the
  accumulation of pollutants along the shoreline or
  accelerate shoreline erosion. Docks or piers with
  open-spaced pilings allow water to circulate
  freely.

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CAMA Permits

• Docks and piers must not interfere with shellfish
  leases or franchises. You must provide notice of
  the permit application or exemption request for a
  dock or pier to the owner of any part of a
  shellfish franchise or lease that the proposed
  dock or pier would cover. The Division of Marine
  Fisheries has information on the location of
  these shellfish beds and leaseholders.

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CAMA Permits

• Boat Ramps
• Boat ramps provide access to coastal waters.
  Ramps for private use may be constructed under a
  CAMA general permit if they meet the general
  rules for coastal shorelines, estuarine and
  public trust waters, and the following specific
  conditions 15A NCAC 7H .1305
• Boat ramps must not be wider than 15 feet and
  must not extend farther than 20 feet below the
  normal high water level contour in tidal areas or
  the normal water level contour in nontidal areas.

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CAMA Permits

• Excavation and ground-disturbing activities above
  and below the normal high water level or normal
  water level will be limited to that absolutely
  necessary to establish adequate ramp slope and
  provide a ramp no greater in size than specified
  by the general permit.
• Placement of fill materials below the normal high
  water level, or normal water level contour, will
  be limited to the ramp structure itself. Boat
  ramps may be constructed of concrete, wood,
  steel, clean riprap, marl or any other acceptable
  materials approved by DCM personnel.

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CAMA Permits

• Coastal wetland vegetation must not be excavated
  or filled at any time during construction and
  subsequent use of the ramp.
• Construction of larger or commercial boat ramps
  may require a major permit.

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CAMA Permit Enforcement

• You can avoid penalties by making sure your
  project complies with the CRC's development
  standards and all permit conditions. When you are
  issued a CAMA permit, you should consult with the
  Coastal Management field representative or local
  permit officer before beginning work to make sure
  that your work will meet all requirements. A
  Coastal Management field representative or a
  local permit officer will periodically monitor
  work at your project site.

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CAMA Permits

• Federal Consistency
• Because North Carolinas Coastal Management
  Program is Federally approved, a number of
  activities are required to comply with the
  enforceable policies of the States certified
  coastal management program-- even if those
  activities do not require CAMA permits under
  State law.

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Corps of Engineer Permits
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Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899

• Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of
  1899   requires approval prior to the
  accomplishment of any work in, over, or under
  navigable waters of the United States, or which
  affects the course, location, condition or
  capacity of such waters.
• Navigable waters (33 CFR Part 329) are defined
  as waters that have been used in the past, are
  now used, or are susceptible to use as a means to
  transport interstate or foreign commerce up to
  the head of navigation. Section 10 and/or Section
  404 permits are required for construction
  activities in these waters (list of Navigable
  Waters).

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Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899

• Typical activities requiring Section 10 permits
  include
• Construction of piers, wharves, breakwaters,
  bulkheads, jetties, weirs, dolphins, marinas,
  ramps, floats, intake structures, and cable or
  pipeline crossings.
• Work such as dredging or disposal of dredged
  material.
• Excavation, filling, or other modifications to
  navigable waters of the U.S.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• How much does it cost  for a permit?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Most permits issued by the Corps of Engineers
  such as Letters of Permission, Nationwide, and
  General Permits do not have a permit  fee. 
  Individual Permits have fees of 10 for
  individuals and 100 for businesses, once the
  permit has been issued and accepted by the
  applicant.  There are no fees charged to other
  governmental bodies.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• I have obtained permits from local and state
  governments. Why do I have to get a permit from
  the Corps of Engineers?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• It is possible you may not have to obtain an
  individual permit, depending on the type or
  location of work. The Corps has many general
  permits which authorize minor activities without
  the need for individual processing. Check with
  your Corps district regulatory office for
  information on general permits. When a general
  permit does not apply, you may still be required
  to obtain an individual permit.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• What will happen if I do work without getting a
  permit from the Corps?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Performing unauthorized work in waters of the
  United States or failure to comply with the terms
  of a valid permit can have serious consequences.
  You would be in violation of Federal law and
  could face stiff penalties, including fines
  and/or requirements to restore the area.
• Enforcement is an important part of the Corps
  regulatory program.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Corps surveillance and monitoring activities are
  often aided by various agencies, groups, and
  individuals, who report suspected violations.
• When in doubt as to whether a planned activity
  needs a permit, contact the nearest district
  regulatory office. It could save a lot of
  unnecessary trouble later.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Why is the significance of counties with trout
  waters in NC?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• In North Carolina, two agencies, the Wildlife
  Resources Commission and the Department of
  Environmental Quality have trout designations
  used to ensure protection of the resource in the
  state.  Certain activities, depending on the
  activity, stream designation, and time of year,
  may be restricted in order to protect this
  valuable resource. 
• If you are in a "trout" county, check with your
  Corps representative to see if you may be
  impacting a WRC or a DEQ trout water before you
  plan your project.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Who is responsible for the Corps' Regulatory
  Program in my area?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• The Wilmington District Corps Regulatory Program
  assigns Project Managers for counties and for DOT
  projects.  This link will allow you to find the
  assigned Field Office and you can call the Field
  Office phone number for the Project Manager for
  your area of interest.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Why should I waste my time and yours by applying
  for a permit when you probably won't let me do
  the work anyway?

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• Nationwide, only three percent of all requests
  for permits are denied.
• Those few applicants who have been denied permits
  usually have refused to change the design,
  timing, or location of the proposed activity.
• When a permit is denied, an applicant may
  redesign the project and submit a new
  application.

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Corps of Engineer Permits

• To avoid unnecessary delays pre-application
  conferences, particularly for applications for
  major activities, are recommended.
• The Corps will endeavor to give you helpful
  information, including factors which will be
  considered during the public interest review, and
  alternatives to consider that may prove to be
  useful in designing a project.

100
Corps of Engineer Permits

• How far in advance of my planned work should I
  apply for a Corps permit?

101
Corps of Engineer Permits

• Since two to three months is normally required to
  process a routine application involving a public
  notice, you should apply as early as possible to
  be sure you have all required approvals before
  your planned commencement date.
• For a large or complex activity that may take
  longer, it is often helpful to have a
  "pre-application consultation" or informal
  meeting with the Corps during the early planning
  phase of your project.

102
Corps of Engineer Permits

• You may receive helpful information at this point
  which could prevent delays later.
• When in doubt as to whether a permit may be
  required or what you need to do, don't hesitate
  to call a district regulatory office.

103
Design Considerations

• ADA Compliance

104
ADA Access

• The 2000 U.S. Census reports that over 49 million
  Americans have one or more disabilities and that
  a significant number of these individuals
  participate in outdoor recreation activities
  including canoeing, kayaking, and other boating
  activities.

105
ADA Access

• All paddle trail ventures should comply with
  existing regulations regarding ADA compliance.
  The ADA Standards for Accessible Design are
  available at http//www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adastd94
  .pdf.

106
ADA Access

• The preceding document should be investigated
  thoroughly before beginning any construction on
  your site. In addition to the information
  regarding parking and standard construction
  dimensions, particular attention should be paid
  to the sections regarding Equivalent
  Facilitation.  

107
ADA Access

• It is understandable and expected in an emerging
  field such as paddle trail development, that some
  standardized practices will need to be modified.
• The appropriate way to handle these concerns is
  to meet with your local compliance officer PRIOR
  to any construction.

108
ADA Access

• Your compliance officer will be best able to help
  you navigate through the various interpretations
  of the applicable ordinances to arrive at an
  appropriate and compliant solution.
• For complex problems or the applicability of
  inventive ideas for unique issues, it would be
  advisable to ask your compliance officer to
  arrange a joint meeting with Laurel W. Wright or
  Ted Feitshans.

109
ADA Access

• Laurel W. Wright Chief Accessibility Code
  ConsultantNC Dept of Ins/Office of State Fire
  Marshal322 Chapanoke Road, Suite 200 , Raleigh,
  NC 27603 Telephone   [phone] x247 Fax  
  919-662-4414 Email lwright_at_ncdoi.net

• Theodore A. (Ted) Feitshans North Carolina
  State University Dept. of Agric. Resource
  Economics Room 3340 Nelson Hall Campus Box
  8109, Raleigh, NC 27695-8109 ted_feitshans_at_ncsu.e
  du http//www.ag-econ.ncsu.edu/faculty/feitshans/
  feitshans.htm

110
ADA Access
The crew from the Balsam Depot installs one of
the new railings at a boating access area.
The railings are designed to help disabled
boaters when moving between boat and dock.
Photos courtesy of NC Wildlife Resources
Commission
111
ADA Access

• ADAAG require that boat launches be equipped with
  at least one accessible route to boat launches
  that complies with ADAAG standards for

Location Width Passing space Surface Slope Level Changes Doors Egress Areas of rescue assistance
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112
ADA Access

• ADAAG standards must be met if the accessible
  route connects a fixed launch to the shore or if
  the accessible route connects a fixed launch to
  another fixed structure, unless they are modified
  by specific provisions outlined by the Access
  Board.

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ADA Access

• Exception Gangways connecting floating
  structures
• Gangways should be designed with the least
  possible slope and, if possible, designed so as
  not to exceed a slope of 8.33 or a ratio of
  112.
• Since the slope of a gangway will rise and fall
  with changing water levels, its slope may exceed
  8.33.
• This is acceptable as long as the gangway is at
  least 30 feet long.
• Gangways are required to be at least 80 feet long
  if the vertical distance between the lowest water
  level and the point where the gangway connects to
  land is 10 feet.

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ADA Access

• Any other sloped surface must comply with ADAAG
  requirements
• Transition plates
• These are sloped surfaces located at the end of a
  gangway. If the slope of a gangway is greater
  than 120 (or 5) it must be equipped with a
  landing at the non-gangway end of the transition
  plate and comply with ADAAG ramp requirements.

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ADA Access

• Handrails
• Handrails are required on sloped surfaces that
  have a rise of less than 6 inches or a projection
  less than 72 inches, or a slope of 120 (5) or
  less.
• Since the surface may be moving with changes in
  the water handrail extensions do not need to be
  parallel to ground or floor surfaces.

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ADA Access

• Cross slope
• The cross slope of a structure refers to the
  slope perpendicular to the structures
  runningslope or slope spanning the length of
  the structure.
• The cross slopes of gangways, transition plates,
  and floating piers that are part of an accessible
  route must be designed and constructed to not
  exceed a maximum of 2 or a slope of 150.

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117
ADA Access

• Gangways and piers that are part of an accessible
  route are expected to be designed and constructed
  to meet the 2 requirement.
• Once placed in the water, measurements, absent
  live loads, are to be made from a static
  condition (i.e., absence of movement that results
  from wind, waves, etc.).
• Where floating piers are grounded due to low
  water conditions, slope requirements would not
  apply.

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118
ADA Access

• Design considerations from a paddlers point of
  view
• Michael Passo, an experienced paddler who uses a
  wheelchair, recommends the following design
  accommodations in order to provide access for
  paddlers with disabilities

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119
ADA Access

• Access route
• Surface, grade, width, and cross slope need to be
  as accessible as a particular location will
  allow.
• Surface should be as even and level as possible
  (not exceeding 8.33 slope or 2 cross slope) and
  without gaps or interruptions.
• The route should be clearly marked.

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120
ADA Access

• Level and stable landing/loading area
• There should be an area adjacent to the loading
  area that is level, stable, and at least 60" x
  60".
• This can be anywhere adjacent to the loading
  area, including in water up to 12" deep.

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121
ADA Access

• An accessible back country canoe launch might
  incorporate a large, flat rock surface (provided
  that it is not slippery) that is 8 to 12 under
  the surface of the water and has a gradual access
  route made of native soil.
• The transfer from a wheelchair on that rock to a
  floating canoe could be nearly level.

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122
ADA Access

• Transfer assistance
• The greatest challenge to using a launch, once a
  paddler is beside the canoe, can be getting down
  into the seat of the boat.
• Whether it is on a highly developed launch or
  the bank of a lake, it is difficult to transfer
  to a moving boat.
• Making the transfer easier will help paddlers
  considerably.

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123
ADA Access

• Options to facilitate transfer from the launch
  area into a boat include
• A transfer step or moveable structure
  approximately 8" to 12" high that assists
  paddlers who have difficulty bending or squatting
  and provides wheelchair users with an
  intermediate step between their chair and the
  ground. A carpet-covered box or large, stable
  rock may be used.

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124
ADA Access

• A transfer board is a board that slides out from
  the launch, over the top of the canoe, and allows
  a person to slide out over the canoe before
  sitting down on the seat. If located at gunwale
  level, it can both support a persons weight and
  stabilize the boat as legs are moved around and
  adjustments are made.

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125
ADA Access

• Overhead handles, grab bars, etc.
• The transfer between land and boat can be
  extremely difficult to maneuver, especially when
  moving from a canoe seat to a higher launch
  platform.
• Alternative grab points can mitigate the
  complicated procedure of getting oneself onto a
  launch from a boat so that the boat is not the
  sole anchor point.
• Surface textures on a launch, including those
  added to provide extra traction, should be
  practical for wheelchair use.

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126
ADA Access

• Surface gaps should not exceed 0.5" since the
  widths of most wheelchair tires and caster tires
  are between 0.75" and 1". Innovations in adaptive
  gear, which include devices to improve traction
  and maneuverability, do exist and can make
  off-road surfaces much easier to navigate.
  Nevertheless, launches should be built to
  accommodate basic wheelchair treads.
• The website http//www.titaniumarts.com offers
  commercial examples of adaptive gear.

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127
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128
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129
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130
Design Considerations

• Construction

131
Wildlife Resources Commission

• Guidelines

132
Building your own boat ramp

• I want to build my own boat ramp. How can I get
  guidance and what do I need to do?

133
Building your own boat ramp

• The Commission's Division of Engineering Services
  uses design guidelines that can be applied to
  most sites. You may obtain a copy of these
  guidelines by faxing a request to 919 707-0162
  with your fax number and what type of guidance
  you hope to obtain.

134
Building your own boat ramp

• You will also need to obtain all the proper
  permits for construction of the boat ramp.
• To inquire about the appropriate permits you may
  visit the Division of Coastal Management's Web
  site if you are in a coastal county or the US
  Army Corps of Engineers if you are not in a
  coastal county.

135
Technical Assistance for Boating Access Facilities

• The Division of Engineering Services has
• some information that can be used as a
• guide when constructing a boat ramp. It is
• important to understand that each of these
• guidelines vary depending on site
• characteristics.

136
Standard Dimensions for Concrete Launch Ramp

• Length Varies by site characteristics. Ensure
  that the bottom of the ramp at Mean Low Water
  (MLW) will be in at least 3' of water. The top of
  the ramp should be at least 1' above MHW.
• Width Single launch ramp should be at least 14'
  wide.
• Thickness Concrete should be at least 6".
  Typically, designs are for a 25 year return
  period.

137
Launch Ramp Slope

• Approximately 14, but can vary from 15 to 12.5

138
Construction and Materials

• Sub-grade Preparation The concrete ramp should
  be placed on compacted aggregate which is placed
  on geotextile fabric to prevent washout. The
  Wildlife Resources Commission uses Class "A"
  erosion control stone and a 6" layer of No. 4 or
  smaller washed stone for the compacted aggregate.

139
Construction and Materials

• Push Slab The Commission uses a push slab for
  the launch ramp below Mean Low Water Level (MLW).
  This steel reinforced concrete slab is cast on
  upland and is allowed to cure (21 day minimum)
  before it is pushed into place with a bulldozer.
  Typically, a 32'L X 14'W X 6" push slab can be
  properly placed when the water level is at MLW.

140
Construction and Materials

• Cast in Place Section Once the push slab is cast
  in place, there should be at least 2 to 3 feet of
  ramp left above the water line. The remaining
  ramp should be cast in place.

141
Additional Information that you can request

• Steel Reinforcement for the ramp
• Concrete Mix Concrete
• Finishing for anti-slip (V-grooved)
• Guidelines when the ramp is placed with water
  above MLW
• Guidelines for sites with high erosion or current
  

142
Additional Information that you can request

• Maneuver area guidelines
• Guidelines with adjusting the ramp slope
• Vendors for ordering materials
• Parking Area Guidelines
• Access Channel Guidelines

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Logical Lasting Launches

• Ch. 1 THE ABCs OF LOGICAL, LASTING LAUNCHES
  (Introduction)
• Ch. 2 QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE TO LAUNCH TYPES AND
  USES
• Ch. 3 DESIGNING ACCESSIBLE LAUNCHES IN
  ACCORDANCE WITH AMERICAN WITH DISABILITIES ACT
  ACCESSIBILITY GUIDELINES
• Ch. 4 SIMPLE LAUNCHES
• Ch. 5 FLOATING LAUNCHES

145
Logical Lasting Launches

• Ch. 6 PIPE AND PILE LAUNCHES
• Ch. 7 CANTILEVER LAUNCHES
• Ch. 8 CONCRETE LAUNCH DESIGNS
• Ch. 9 STAIRWAY VARIATIONS
• Ch. 10 PORTAGES AROUND DAMS
• Ch. 11 LOW-IMPACT DESIGNS
• INDEX OF CASE EXAMPLES, DESIGNS, PHOTOS

146
Logical Lasting Launches Quick Reference Guide
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Speaker Contact

• Grace Lawrence, Agent Wake County
• Center North Carolina State University
• 4001-E Carya Drive Raleigh, NC 27610
• grace_lawrence_at_ncsu.edu
• 919-250-1106
• 919-250-1097 (fax)
• www.ces.ncsu.edu/wake www.bae.ncsu.edu/stormwater

166
References

• CoastASyst
• http//www.soil.ncsu.edu/assist/cas/docks/
• Logical Lasting Launches
• http//www.nps.gov/ncrc/programs/rtca/helpfultools
  /ht_launch_guide.html
• NC DOT
• http//www.ncdot.org/doh/preconstruct/traffic/tepp
  l/Topics/W-27/W-27_s.pdf
• NC Sea Grant
• http//www.ncseagrant.org/index.cfm
• NC Wildlife Resources Commission
• http//www.ncwildlife.org/fs_index_05_boating.htm
• Small Footprint Water Accesses
• http//www.iowadnr.com/watertrails/files/smallacce
  ss.pdf

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