Section 10-A624. E-4.7 OTHER HAZARDS AND POLLUTANTS

 

624.1Three other environmental hazards are addressed in this Comprehensive Plan. The first-light pollution-has been raised in the past around the Naval Observatory in Northwest DC. In some parts of the city, brighter lighting may be desirable to enhance public safety or illuminate our civic buildings and monuments. In other areas, dark skies are more desirable and lighting can be an irritant. Where lighting is required or desired, steps can be taken to use the correct amount of lighting for the desired purpose, direct the lighting appropriately, employ energy efficient lighting devices, and design and install quality lighting that reduces sharp contrast, glare, and halo effects. 624.1

 

624.2The second hazard-electromagnetic fields (EMF)-is an issue principally associated with communication antennas and electric power facilities. While antennas have been part of the District’s landscape for years, the widespread use of mobile phones and personal communication devices in the last decade have resulted in a proliferation of requests for new facilities. Although the National Research Council has found “no conclusive and consistent evidence” linking ordinary exposure to EMF with human health, the American Medical Association has recommended a policy of prudent avoidance. The intent is to reduce the exposure of residents and workers to EMF radiation and ensure compliance with all Federal Communications Commission siting standards. 624.2

 

624.3The third hazard addressed below is flooding. Portions of the District are within the FEMA-designated 100-year flood plain and are subject to inundation during hurricanes and other severe storms. Although the District’s flood-prone areas are generally parkland, ongoing efforts are needed to maintain seawalls, reduce erosion, replace undersized culverts, and keep streambeds free of debris. 624.3

 

624.4Policy E-4.7.1: Prudent Avoidance of Electromagnetic Field Impacts

 

Incorporate prudent avoidance in decisions regarding the approval, location or routing, and intensity of facilities that generate electromagnetic fields, such as power lines and communication antennas. Such facilities should be located only when and where necessary based on local service needs, and should be designed using methods to mitigate involuntary public exposure to potential adverse effects. 624.4

 

624.5Policy E-4.7.2: Co-Location of Antennas

 

Consider the joint use and co-location of communication antennas to reduce the number of towers necessary, thereby reducing aesthetic impacts and limiting the area of radiofrequency exposure. 624.5

 

624.6Policy E-4.7.3: Light Pollution

 

Maintain regulations for outdoor lighting to reduce light pollution and conserve energy. Particular attention should be given to preventing glare and nighttime light trespass in the vicinity of the Naval Observatory, so that its operational needs are respected. 624.6

 

624.7Policy E-4.7.4: Flood Plains

 

Restrict development within FEMA-designated flood plain areas. Consistent with the Federal Elements of the Comprehensive Plan, prohibit activities within these areas that could pose public health or safety hazards in the event of a flood. Regulation of land uses in flood plains, waterfronts, and other low-lying areas should consider the long-term effects of global warming and sea-level rise on flood hazards. 624.7

 

notation

The provisions of Title 10, Part A of the DCMR accessible through this web interface are codification of the District Elements of the Comprehensive Plan for the National Capital. As such, they do not represent the organic provisions adopted by the Council of the District of Columbia. The official version of the District Elements only appears as a hard copy volume of Title 10, Part A published pursuant to section 9a of the District of Columbia Comprehensive Plan Act of 1994, effective April 10, 1984 (D.C. Law 5-76; D.C. Official Code § 1 -301.66)) . In the event of any inconsistency between the provisions accessible through this site and the provisions contained in the published version of Title 10, Part A, the provisions contained in the published version govern. A copy of the published District Elements is available www.planning.dc.gov.