Natural Resource Compliance, Public Outreach and Open Space Acceptance

The natural resource staff also conducts tasks related to natural resource compliance, public outreach and open space acceptance. This section also responds to and follows up on all complaints and inquiries related to natural resource issues on County owned Open Space. Issues include: evaluating hazardous trees; enforcing regulations such as encroachments, i.e., fences, sheds and other structures; and investigating the illegal clearing of parkland. The staff also attends public meetings and informative sessions to relay the Department’s mission in managing Open Space and other Natural Resources lands. This includes disseminating and explaining Parkland Rules and Regulations.

What is Open Space?

Open space refers to those lands that have been set aside through the development process as conservation areas and are deeded over to the County by the developer of a subdivision. You will find open space areas in nearly every community in the County built after the 1970's. The land usually contains environmentally sensitive areas such as wetlands, woodlands meadows riparian areas, etc. The conservation of such areas is important because they lessen the impact of development, provide critical wildlife habitat and are often part of natural greenways that are crucial in today’s fragmented environment. The Department currently manages over 2800 acres of such land.

Why Can't I Alter or Use the Open Space Behind My Home?

These open space areas are public lands and not intended for the personal use of adjoining property owners nor to serve as lawns, storage areas, gardens or playgrounds. Their purpose is for environmental protection and conservation. For more detailed information on Open Space lands and their use please see our “Welcome to Our Open Space” brochure.

Regulation Enforcement

The enforcement of regulations consists of issuing warning notices and civil citations to gain compliance. However, the Department’s approach is to try and gain voluntary compliance through education and restoration versus issuance of citations and fines. The final component of this unit is to conduct inspections and provide expertise and site analysis for lands being considered for ownership by the County. This includes Open Space dedication as well as properties being purchased in fee simple. These inspections insure that the lands coming to County ownership are in a safe, clean condition. For more information on these topics or to report a natural resource violation contact Charlie Peregoy at 410-313-1678.