For Additional Information
Robert Syphard
Senior Planner

Town of Bel Air
Department of Planning & Community Development
705 E. Churchville Road
Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: 410-879-9500
Fax: 410-838-0775

Purpose - The Town of Bel Air is situated between two stream valleys, Winters Run and Bynum Run. Naturally, this leads to non-tidal wetland issues and floodplain impacts. The Environmental division of the Planning Department evaluates and works with property owners to mitigate impacts on these wetlands, floodplains, steep slopes, forested areas and on tree retention programs.

Environmental Assessment
Any development project requires the submission of an Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) addressing identification, protection, impact mitigation, and enhancement of the environmental resources of the project site and its vicinity. Submission requirements typically include maps and analysis, and narrative fully and accurately describing the environmental impact of the proposed development. The EIAR is submitted to the Planning Department at the time of request for project development.

Floodplain and Wetlands Information:
The Town Planning Department handles all Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) questions. Copies of the FIRM are available for review at the Planning and Public Works building and at the Town Hall. Wetland areas as determined through engineered delineations are mapped and available for in-house review at the Planning Department.

Tree Replacement/Forest Conservation
The Town Development Regulations require the mapping and evaluation of tree cover prior to issuance of any permit. Small lot development (under 40,000 square feet) requires an individual tree stand delineation. Large lot development (over 40,000 square feet) requires a Forest Stand Delineation (FSD) and Forest Conservation Plan (FCP) as indicated in the Town’s Forest Conservation Ordinance No. 529. Copies of the ordinance and/or forest stand delineation requirements are available at the Planning Department.