Chapter 20.40
RURAL DESIGNATION
Sections:
20.40.010 Rural designation defined.
20.40.060 Maximum building height.
20.40.070 Setbacks and lot coverage.
20.40.010 Rural designation defined.
The rural environment designation is defined as an area developed at a low overall density or used at a low to moderate intensity; including, but not limited to: residences and outdoor recreation developments. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.020 Purpose and intent.
The purpose of the rural environment designation is to ensure that uses are compatible with area physical capabilities and limitations, natural resources and other appropriate low-density development. Within the City of Ferndale, the rural environment designation applies to lands in close proximity to the Nooksack River that are immediately adjacent to the floodway of the Nooksack River and have not been further protected by a levee system. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.030 Permitted uses.
A. Outdoor recreation development.
B. Residential development, not to exceed one unit per five acres. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.040 Conditional uses.
A. Aquaculture.
B. Boating facilities.
C. In-stream structures.
D. Mining.
E. Piers, docks, and floats.
F. Dredging.
G. Grading.
H. Shoreline stabilization. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.050 Prohibited uses.
A. Commercial development.
B. Forestry.
C. Industrial development.
D. Indoor recreational development.
E. Residential development exceeding one unit per five acres, and all multifamily residential development.
F. Solid waste, with the exception of solid waste conveyance systems which may transit the area. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.060 Maximum building height.
The maximum building height shall comply with the view and aesthetics regulations in FMC 20.55.070. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)
20.40.070 Setbacks and lot coverage.
A. There shall be a minimum setback of 50 feet from the line of OHWM for structures, surfacing and parking.
B. All other building setbacks shall comply with the underlying zoning.
C. Lot coverage shall be limited to a maximum of 45 percent. (Ord. 2252 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024; Ord. 2251 § 1 (Exh. A), 2024)