| Tool | Issues Addressed | Considerations | Examples |
| Hillside & Ridgeline Protection Standards for reasonable hillside use that complements the natural and visual character of the community. Includes requirements to prevent development that will erode hillsides, sedimentation of lower slopes, create potential for landslides, severe cutting of trees or the scarring of the landscape. |
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Improved Development Regulations for the City of Blue Ridge, Georgia Implementation Examples Outside Georgia |
Hillside & Ridgeline Protection |
Guides For Implementing This Tool
Model Code Introduction and User Guide
An Introduction and User Guide for "Alternatives to Conventional Zoning: Model Land-Use Management Code"
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/development/PlanningQualityGrowth/programs/modelcode.asp
Model Ordinances
Hillside and Ridgeline Protection (DCA Model Code 3-4)
Standards for reasonable hillside use that complements the natural and visual character of the community. Includes requirements to prevent development that will erode hillsides, sedimentation of lower slopes, create potential for landslides, severe cutting of trees or the scarring of the landscape.
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/development/PlanningQualityGrowth/programs/modelcode.asp
Aids For Visualizing This Tool
No records available.Georgia Implementation Examples
Fannin County, GA - The implemented development regulations will maintain the community's character by improving the pattern, design, and aesthetics in the rapily growing area along State Route 515 (Appalachian Development Highway).
Implementation Examples Outside Georgia
North Carolina - Hillside development has been a problem in Waynesville, North Carolina, causing erosion and harming scenic views. The town now restricts home building on slopes at an elevation above 2,900 feet, with the allowable density of development being linked to the steepness of the slope. For instance, on slopes with a 50% grade the minimum lot size for a single family home is 10 acres. On a slope with a 15% grade, however, the minimum lot size is a half-acre. It is expected that these rules will lead to less dense (and thus less damaging) developments on steep slopes, and perhaps to clusters of relatively dense housing on gentle slopes. The figure of 2,900 feet is used because in general water services cannot be provided above that without pumping. Furthermore, slopes often become significantly steeper beyond that elevation.
Other Resources
Master Bibliography - DCA Model Code Alternatives to Conventional Zoning
A list of the reference materials consulted DCA's original Alternatives to Conventional Zoning Project. This specific bibliography corresponds to a previous version of the Model Code which is no longer available online; however, the value and usefulness of this material and an informational resource is undiminished.
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/intra_nonpub/Toolkit/OtherResources/AltZ/MasterBiblgrphy_AltZ.pdf
Model Steep Slope Ordinance for Hunterdon County Municipalities
Model ordinance regulates development in steep slope areas to avoid erosion and other environmental disturbances as well as to reduce the visual impact of development
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/OITDSShared/asp/NavDisclaimer.asp?Leaving=GQGP&GoToURL=http://www.co.hunterdon.nj.us/planning/ordinances/toolbox/Environmental_Toolbox-Steep_Slopes.pdf
Task 1 Report: Land Use Problems and Issues in Rural Georgia
This report was the first major work product of DCA's original Alternatives to Conventional Zoning project and was included as an appendix in the first iteration of the Model Code. It provides a thorough analysis of the major land-use management issues, the primary problems with land-development, and the largest impediments to effective regulation faced by local governments across the state. Please note that any code sections mentioned in this document correspond to a version of the Model Code which is no longer available on the web; but, the analysis and discussion contained therein remains highly informative and useful.
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/intra_nonpub/Toolkit/OtherResources/AltZ/Task1Report.pdf
Task 2 Report: Alternative Land Use Management Techniques
This report was the second major work product of DCA's original Alternatives to Conventional Zoning project and was included as an appendix in the first iteration of the Model Code. "The Task 2 Report" identifies, describes, and evaluates new and alternative approaches to land-use management and land-development that are being implemented by local governments from across the State of Georgia and the nation. It discusses their potential use in addressing the problems and issues associated with regulation those activities in rural Georgia. Please note that any code sections mentioned in this document correspond to a version of the Model Code which is no longer available on the web; but, the analysis and discussion contained therein remains highly informative and useful.
http://www.dca.state.ga.us/intra_nonpub/Toolkit/OtherResources/AltZ/Task2Report.pdf
