Town of Webster Proposed Recreational Pond Code
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Background Recreational Ponds are not currently
addressed in Town Code The fee schedule includes “Pond Permit” but Town is lacking documented guidance and process for review, approval, and inspection. Ponds constructed without research into site conditions and proper design can: Be unsafe for the property owner and
neighbors Be unexpectedly costly and cause project to stall or remain incomplete Be unsuccessful Negatively affect the character of the land Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Need
Since 2021, at least three residents have
inquired about installation of recreational ponds. All three were on lots sized 0.5-1.0 acres with nearby neighbors. Two sites had sandy soils and would’ve struggled to hold water successfully. Two were near floodways and streams. Connection to flowing water bodies is not
permitted.
Proposed design did not adhere to
professional guidance
Construction could negatively impact nearby
waterbody.
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Resources and Model Municipalities Monroe County Soil and Water Conservation District Assists municipalities in Monroe County determine if a site is suitable for a pond. Prepares Pond Feasibility Studies ($200) which includes: The most recent aerial map
List of any streams on the site or adjacent to the site
A topographic map
Soil survey of the site along with a description and
Both federal and state wetland maps
interpretation of the soils A yes/no determination if the site is conducive for a pond.
If Pond Feasibility Study recommends site, an on-site inspection of soils can be completed ($175) Consults pond owners on: Stocking fish
Controlling algae growth
Reducing mosquitos
Controlling goose populations
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Resources and Model Municipalities Penfield
Addressed under land disturbance activities (i.e. fill and excavation)
Requires permit for any pond over 3-ft in depth.
Mendon
Ponds and artificial lakes are considered an excavation, and are subject to approval by the MCSWCD, and NYSDEC
Addresses erosion and sediment control; proximity to streams, water bodies, and wetlands
Riga
Pond subject to plan approval
Addresses setback requirements, pond size, pond design requirements, health and safety, and landscaping
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Definitions
Any man-made body of water designed to retain water on an ongoing basis, with a surface area greater than, or equal to, 1/4 acre and a depth of at least 8 feet. Recreational Ponds may not exceed 10% of overall parcel acreage.
Any man-made body of water designed to retain water on an ongoing basis. Surface area not to exceed 100 square feet and 42” in depth. Examples include Goldfish/Koi Ponds or Landscaped Ponds. Water Gardens are not intended for occupied use.
Bodies of water in commercial and residential developments that collect and store stormwater runoff. These ponds improve water quality and control water quantity (i.e. water levels fluctuate). Stormwater ponds reduce pollution and prevent downstream flooding.
Recreational Pond
Water Garden Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Stormwater Pond
Design Considerations Intent/Use Fishing NYSDEC Fish Stocking Requirements Recreation: Swimming Fountains/Water Features/Landscape Features
Erosion/Flooding Waterbody/Wetland Proximity Spillway Requirements
Health/Safety Setbacks/Lot Size Slope Requirements
Spoils Location/Stabilization Follow Up Inspections (5 year cycle)
Pond Depth
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Proposed Code Overview* Setbacks
From property boundaries, waterways, floodplain, wetlands, and wetland buffer zones
Isolates opportunity to construct ponds to large lots
Feasibility Study Required
Provides conduit for coordination with MCSWCD to ensure irregular circumstances are addressed prior to board approvals
must be designed and certified by a NYS-licensed PE or LA Safety Requirements such as steepness of pond side slopes and pond location Pond Activities Limited - Prevents use of motorized watercraft Inspection Requirements
Ensures proper installation and proper maintenance of pond/spillway
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
*Per Town Code, applicants unable to meet requirements can seek relief from the Zoning Board of Appeals
Next Steps Internal Review of Draft Code Sections with
Legal Department Adoption of code section into Town Code,
including Public Hearing and Town Board Resolution Formalize process and documentation
Town of Webster Department of Engineering
Recreational Pond Code
Comments/Questions? Town of Webster Department of Engineering