Title 18—Conservation of Power and Water Resources--Volume 1
PART 1304—APPROVAL OF CONSTRUCTION IN THE TENNESSEE RIVER SYSTEM AND REGULATION OF STRUCTURES AND OTHER ALTERATIONS
§ 1304.1   Scope and intent.
The Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933 among other things confers on TVA broad authority related to the unified conservation and development of the Tennessee River Valley and surrounding area and directs that property in TVA's custody be used to promote the Act's purposes. In particular, section 26a of the Act requires that TVA's approval be obtained prior to the construction, operation, or maintenance of any dam, appurtenant works, or other obstruction affecting navigation, flood control, or public lands or reservations along or in the Tennessee River or any of its tributaries. By way of example only, such obstructions may include boat docks, piers, boathouses, buoys, floats, boat launching ramps, fills, water intakes, devices for discharging effluent, bridges, aerial cables, culverts, pipelines, fish attractors, shoreline stabilization projects, channel excavations, and floating cabins as described in § 1304.101. Any person considering constructing, operating, or maintaining any such obstruction on a stream in the Tennessee River Watershed should carefully review the regulations in this part and the 26a Applicant's Package before doing so. The regulations also apply to certain activities on TVA-owned land alongside TVA reservoirs and to land subject to TVA flowage easements. TVA uses and permits use of the lands and land rights in its custody alongside and subjacent to TVA reservoirs and exercises its land rights to carry out the purposes and policies of the Act. In addition, the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA), as amended, 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq., and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act Amendments of 1972 (FWPCA), 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq., have declared it to be congressional policy that agencies should administer their statutory authorities so as to restore, preserve, and enhance the quality of the environment and should cooperate in the control of pollution. It is the intent of the regulations in this part 1304 to carry out the purposes of the Act and other statutes relating to these purposes, and this part shall be interpreted and applied to that end.
§ 1304.2   Application.
(a) If the facility is to be built on TVA land, the applicant must, in addition to the other requirements of this part, own the fee interest in or have an adequate leasehold or easement interest of sufficient tenure to cover the normal useful life of the proposed facility in land immediately adjoining the TVA land. If the facility is to be built on private land, the applicant must own the fee interest in the land or have an adequate leasehold or easement interest in the property where the facility will be located. If the facility is an existing floating cabin, it must meet the requirements of subpart B. TVA recognizes, however, that in some cases private property has been subdivided in a way that left an intervening strip of land between the upland boundary of a TVA flowage easement and the waters of the reservoir, or did not convey to the adjoining landowner the land underlying the waters of the reservoir. In some of these situations, the owner of the intervening strip or underlying land cannot be identified or does not object to construction of water-use facilities by the adjacent landowner. In these situations, TVA may exercise its discretion to permit the facility, provided there is no objection from the fee owner of the intervening strip or underlying land. A TVA permit conveys no property interest. The applicant is responsible for locating the proposed facility on qualifying land and ensuring that there is no objection from any owner of such land. TVA may require the applicant to provide appropriate verification of ownership and lack of objection, but TVA is not responsible for resolving ownership questions. In case of a dispute, TVA may require private parties requesting TVA action to grant or revoke a TVA permit to obtain a court order declaring respective ownership and/or land rights. TVA may exercise its discretion to permit a facility on TVA land that is located up or downstream from the land which makes the applicant eligible for consideration to receive a permit.
(b) Applications shall be submitted on TVA's online application system or addressed to the Tennessee Valley Authority, at the appropriate location as listed on the application and on TVA's website. 

 To contact an office, call 1-800-882-5263 or email plic@tva.gov. Applications are available on TVA's website.
(c) Submittal of section 26a application. Applicants must submit certain required information depending upon whether a proposed facility is a minor or major facility. Examples of the two categories are provided in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section. Most residential related facilities are minor facilities. Commercial or community facilities generally are major facilities. TVA shall determine whether a proposed facility is minor or major. An application shall not be complete until payment of the appropriate fee as determined in accordance with 18 CFR part 1310, and disclosed to the applicant in the materials provided with the application package or by such other means of disclosure as TVA shall from time to time adopt. For purposes of the information required to be submitted under this section and the determination of fees, a request for a variance to the size limitations for a residential-related facility (other than a waiver request under § 1304.212 or § 1304.300(a)) shall be regarded as an application for a major facility. In addition to the information required in paragraphs (c)(1) and (2) of this section, TVA may require the applicant to provide such other information as TVA deems necessary for adequate review of a particular application.
(1) Information required for review of minor facility. By way of example only, minor facilities may include: boat docks, piers, rafts, boathouses, fences, steps, gazebos, and floating cabins. One copy of the application shall be prepared and submitted in accordance with the instructions included in the section 26a Applicant's Package. The application shall include:
(i) Completed application form. One copy of the application shall be prepared and submitted. Application forms are available on TVA's website. The application shall include a project description which indicates what is to be built, removed, or modified, and the sequence of the work. Applications for floating cabins shall include written evidence that the floating cabin was located or moored on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016, and detailed descriptions of mooring method, how electrical service is provided, and how wastewater is managed. An application to relocate a floating cabin to a marina shall include evidence of approval from the accepting marina operator.
(ii) Project, plan, or drawing. The project plan/drawing shall:
(A) Be prepared electronically or on paper suitable for reproduction (no larger than 11 by 17 inches).
(B) Identify the kind of structure, purpose/intended use;
(C) Show principal dimensions, size, and location in relation to shoreline;
(D) Show the elevation of the structure above the full summer pool; and
(E) Indicate the river or reservoir name, river mile, locator landmarks, and direction of water flow if known.
(iii) A site photograph. The photograph shall be at least 3 by 5 inches in size and show the location of the proposed structure or alteration and the adjacent shoreline area.
(iv) Location map. The location map shall clearly show the location of the proposed facility and the extent of any site disturbance for the proposed project. An 8 1/2 by 11-inch copy of one of the following is ideal: a TVA land map, a subdivision map, or a portion of a United States Geological Survey topographic map. The subdivision name and lot number and the map number or name shall be included, if available.
(v) Environmental consultations and permits. To the fullest extent possible the applicant shall obtain or apply for other required environmental permits and approvals before or at the same time as applying for section 26a approvals. Consultations under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 shall take place, and permits from the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and State agencies for water or air regulation shall be obtained or applied for at the same time as or before application for section 26a approval. The applicant shall provide TVA with copies of any such permits or approvals that are issued.
(2) Information required for a major facility. One (1) copy of the application shall be prepared and submitted according to instructions included in the section 26a Applicant's Package. By way of example only, major projects and facilities may include: marinas, community docks, barge terminals, utility crossings, bridges, culverts, roads, wastewater discharges, water intakes, dredging, and placement of fill. The application shall include:
(i) Completed application form. Application forms are available on TVA's website. The application shall include a narrative project description which indicates what is to be built, removed, or modified, and the sequence of the work.
(ii) Project plan or drawing. Adequate project plans or drawings shall accompany the application. They shall:
(A) Be prepared electronically or on paper suitable for reproduction (no larger than 11 by 17 inches).
(B) Contain the date; applicant name; stream; river or reservoir name; river mile; locator landmarks; and direction of water flow, if known;
(C) Identify the kind of structure, purpose/intended use;
(D) Include a plan and profile view of the structure;
(E) Show principal dimensions, size, and location in relation to shoreline;
(F) Show the elevations of the structure above full summer pool if located on a TVA reservoir or above the normal high water elevation if on a free-flowing stream or river; and
(G) Show the north arrow.
(iii) Location map. The location map must clearly indicate the exact location and extent of site disturbance for the proposed project. An 8 1/2 - by 11-inch copy of the appropriate portion of a United States Geological Survey topographic map is recommended. The map number or name shall be included. In addition, recent photos of the location are helpful for TVA's review and may be included.
(iv) Other information where applicable. The location of any material laydown or assembly areas, staging areas, equipment storage areas, new access roads, and road/access closure required by the project or needed for construction; the location of borrow or spoil areas on or off TVA land; the extent of soil and vegetative disturbance; and information on any special reservoir operations needed for the project, such as drawdown or water discharge restrictions.
(v) Site plans. Some projects, particularly larger ones, may require a separate site plan which details existing and proposed changes to surface topography and elevations (cut and fill, clearing, etc.), location of all proposed facilities, and erosion control plans.
(vi) Environmental consultations and permits. To the fullest extent possible the applicant shall obtain or apply for other required environmental permits and approvals before or at the same time as applying for section 26a approvals. Consultations under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the Endangered Species Act of 1973 shall take place, and permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and State agencies for water or air regulation shall be obtained or applied for at the same time as or before application for section 26a approval. The applicant shall provide TVA with copies of any such permits or approvals that are issued. TVA, in its sole discretion, may proceed with the review of an application in the absence of some materials listed in this section.
(d) Discharges into navigable waters of the United States. If construction, maintenance, or operation of the proposed structure or any part thereof, or the conduct of the activity in connection with which approval is sought may result in any discharge into navigable waters of the United States, applicant shall also submit with the application, in addition to the material required by paragraph (c) of this section, a copy of the request for certification from the state in which such discharge would originate, or if appropriate, from the interstate water pollution control agency having jurisdiction over the navigable waters at the point where the discharge would originate, or from the Environmental Protection Agency, that such state or interstate agency or the Environmental Protection Agency has determined that the applicant's proposed activity will be conducted in a manner that will comply with applicable water quality standards. The applicant shall further submit such supplemental and additional information as TVA may deem necessary for the review of the application, including, without limitation, information concerning the amounts, chemical makeup, temperature differentials, type and quantity of suspended solids, and proposed treatment plans for any proposed discharges. No section 26a permit will be granted until required certification has been obtained or has been waived. If a certifying agency has not acted within a reasonable period of time, not to exceed one year, of an applicant's request for certification from the respective agency and certification is waived, TVA will proceed with processing of the section 26a permit application.
(e) TVA's issuance of a permit does not mean that TVA has determined a facility or obstruction is safe for any purpose or that TVA has any duty to make such a determination. In issuing a permit, TVA assumes no liability to the applicant or to any third party for any damages to property or personal injuries arising out of or in any way connected with applicant's construction, operation, or maintenance of the permitted facility.
§ 1304.3   Delegation of authority.
The power to approve or disapprove applications under this part is delegated to the Vice President, Natural Resources, or the designee thereof, subject to appeal to the Chief Executive Officer and discretionary review by a designated committee of the TVA Board, as provided in § 1304.6. The administration of applications is delegated to the Natural Resources staff or the group with functionally equivalent responsibilities.
§ 1304.4   Application review and approval process.
(a) TVA shall notify the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and other federal agencies with jurisdiction over the application as appropriate.
(b) If a hearing is held for any of the reasons described in paragraph (c) of this section, any interested person may become a party of record by following the directions contained in the hearing notice.
(c) Hearings concerning approval of applications are conducted (in accordance with § 1304.5) when:
(1) TVA deems a hearing is necessary or appropriate in determining any issue presented by the application;
(2) A hearing is required under any applicable law or regulation;
(3) A hearing is requested by the USACE pursuant to the TVA/Corps joint processing Memorandum of Understanding; or
(4) The TVA Investigating Officer directs that a hearing be held.
(d) Upon completion of the review of the application, including any hearing or hearings, the Vice President or the designee thereof shall issue an initial decision approving or disapproving the application. The basis for the decision shall be set forth in the decision.
(e) Promptly following the issuance of the decision, the Vice President or the designee thereof shall furnish a written copy of the decision to the applicant and to any parties of record. The initial decision shall become final unless an appeal is made pursuant to § 1304.6.
§ 1304.5   Conduct of hearings.
(a) If a hearing is to be held for any of the reasons described in § 1304.4(c), TVA shall give notice of the hearing to interested persons. Such notice may be given by publication in a daily newspaper of general circulation in the area of the proposed structure, personal written notice, posting on TVA's Internet Web site, or by any other method reasonably calculated to come to the attention of interested persons. The notice shall provide to the extent feasible the place, date, and time of hearing; the particular issues to which the hearing will pertain; the manner of becoming a party of record; and any other pertinent information as appropriate. The applicant shall automatically be a party of record.
(b) Hearings may be conducted by any such person or persons as may be designated by the Vice President, the Vice President's designee, or the Chief Executive Officer. Hearings are public and are conducted in an informal manner. Parties of record may be represented by counsel or other persons of their choosing. Technical rules of evidence are not observed although reasonable bounds are maintained as to relevancy, materiality, and competency. Evidence may be presented orally or by written statement and need not be under oath. Cross-examination by parties of witnesses or others providing statements or testifying at a hearing shall not be allowed. After the hearing has been completed, additional evidence will not be received unless it presents new and material matter that in the judgment of the person or persons conducting the hearing could not be presented at the hearing. The Vice President may arrange a joint hearing with another federal agency where the subject of an application will require the approval of and necessitate a hearing by or before that other agency. In TVA's discretion, the format of any such joint hearing may be that used by the other agency.
§ 1304.6   Appeals.
(a) Decisions approving or disapproving an application may be appealed as provided in this section. Decisions by the Vice President's designee may be appealed to the Vice President and decisions by the Vice President may be appealed to the Chief Executive Officer, with the possibility of further discretionary review by a committee of the TVA Board.
(b) If a designee of the Vice President issues an initial decision disapproving an application or approving it with terms and conditions deemed unacceptable by the applicant, the applicant may obtain the Vice President's review of that decision by mailing within thirty (30) days after receipt of the designee's decision a written request to the Vice President, Natural Resources, Tennessee Valley Authority, 400 West Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37902. Otherwise, the initial decision of the Vice President's designee becomes final.
(c) If the Vice President, either initially or as the result of an appeal, disapproves an application or approves it with terms and conditions deemed unacceptable by the applicant, the applicant may obtain the Chief Executive Officer's review of that decision by mailing within thirty (30) days after receipt of the decision a written request to the Chief Executive Officer, Tennessee Valley Authority, 400 W. Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37902. Otherwise, the Vice President's decision becomes final.
(d) The decision of the Chief Executive Officer shall become final unless a request for discretionary review by a committee of the Board (Committee) is justified by extraordinary circumstances and mailed within thirty (30) days after receipt of the decision to the attention of Board Services, Tennessee Valley Authority, 400 West Summit Hill Drive, Knoxville, Tennessee 37902. If within 60 days of such a request, one or more members of the Committee indicate that there are extraordinary circumstances warranting further review, the matter will be reviewed by the Committee. Otherwise, the Chief Executive Officer's decision becomes final. The Committee will schedule a meeting not more often that twice a year as needed to hear discretionary appeals. The Committee decides what kind of process to use for these appeals. Deliberations and voting on the reviews will take place at these meetings.
(e) Any interested party who becomes a party of record at a hearing as set forth in § 1304.4(b) and who is aggrieved or adversely affected by any decision approving an application may obtain review by the Vice President or Chief Executive Officer, as appropriate, and may request discretionary review by the Committee, in the same manner as an applicant by adhering to the requirements of paragraphs (b), (c), and (d) of this section.
(f) All requests for review shall fully explain the reasons the applicant or other aggrieved party of record contends that the decision below is in error, and shall include a signed certification that the request for review was mailed to each party of record at the same time that it was mailed to TVA. TVA shall maintain lists of parties of record and make those available upon request for this purpose.
(g) The applicant and any party of record requesting review by the Vice President or Chief Executive Officer may submit additional written material in support of their positions within thirty (30) days after mailing the request for review or during such additional period as the Vice President or Chief Executive Officer may allow.
(h) In considering an appeal, the Vice President or Chief Executive Officer may conduct or cause to be conducted such investigation of the application as he or she deems necessary or desirable, and may appoint an Investigating Officer. The Investigating Officer may be a TVA employee or a person under contract to TVA, and shall not have been directly and substantially involved in the decision being appealed. The Investigating Officer may be the hearing officer for any hearing held during the appeal process. The Vice President or Chief Executive Officer shall render a decision approving or disapproving the application based on a review of the record and the information developed during any investigation and/or submitted by the applicant and any parties of record.
(i) No applicant or party of record shall contact the Chief Executive Officer, Committee members, or any other TVA Board member during the appeal process, except as specified in correspondence from the Chief Executive Officer or from the Committee Secretary. The appeal process runs from the date of an appeal to the Chief Executive Officer until a final resolution of the matter.
(j) A written copy of the decision by the Vice President or the Chief Executive Officer shall be furnished to the applicant and to all parties of record promptly following determination of the matter.
(k) In the event the Committee grants a request for discretionary review, notice of that decision and information about the review shall be provided to the person(s) requesting review and to other parties of record in accordance with the methods set forth in § 1304.5(a). Written notice of the Committee's final determination of the appeal shall be provided to the applicant and to all parties of record in accordance with the methods set forth in § 1304.5(a).
§ 1304.7   Conditions of approvals.
Approvals of applications shall contain such conditions as are required by law and may contain such other general and special conditions as TVA deems necessary or desirable.
§ 1304.8   Denials.
TVA may, at its sole discretion, deny any application to construct, operate, conduct, or maintain any obstruction, structure, facility, or activity that in TVA's judgment would be contrary to the unified development and regulation of the Tennessee River system, would adversely affect navigation, flood control, public lands or reservations, the environment, or sensitive resources (including, without limitation, federally listed threatened or endangered species, high priority State-listed species, wetlands with high function and value, archaeological or historical sites of national significance, and other sites or locations identified in TVA Reservoir Land Management Plans as requiring protection of the environment), or would be inconsistent with TVA's Shoreline Management Policy. In lieu of denial, TVA may require mitigation measures where, in TVA's sole judgment, such measures would adequately protect against adverse effects.
§ 1304.9   Initiation of construction.
A permit issued pursuant to this part shall expire unless the applicant initiates construction within eighteen (18) months after the date of issuance.
§ 1304.10   Change in ownership of approved facilities or activities.
(a) When there is a change in ownership of the land on which a permitted facility or activity is located (or ownership of the land which made the applicant eligible for consideration to receive a permit when the facility or activity is on TVA land), the new owner shall notify TVA within sixty (60) days. Upon application to TVA by the new owner, the new owner may continue to use existing facilities or carry out permitted activities pending TVA's decision on reissuance of the permit. TVA shall reissue the permit upon determining that the facilities are in good repair and are consistent with the standards in effect at the time the permit was first issued.
(b) Subsequent owners are not required to modify existing facilities constructed and maintained in accordance with the standards in effect at the time the permit was first issued provided they:
(1) Maintain such facilities in good repair; and
(2) Obtain TVA approval for any repairs that would alter the size of the facility, create a structural modification, or for any new construction.
(c) Change in ownership of a floating cabin is addressed in § 1304.102.
§ 1304.11   Little Tennessee River; date of formal submission.
As regards structures on the Little Tennessee River, applications are deemed by TVA to be formally submitted within the meaning of section 26a of the Act, on that date upon which applicant has complied in good faith with all applicable provisions of § 1304.2.
§ 1304.100   Scope and intent.
This subpart prescribes requirements for floating cabins on the Tennessee River System. Floating cabins as applied to this subpart include existing nonnavigable houseboats approved by TVA and other existing structures, whose design and use is primarily for human habitation or occupation and not for navigation or transportation on the water. Floating cabins that were not located or moored on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016, shall be deemed new floating cabins. New floating cabins are prohibited and subject to the removal provisions of this part and Section 9b of the TVA Act. No new floating cabins shall be moored, anchored, or installed on the Tennessee River System. Floating cabins that were located or moored in the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016, shall be deemed existing floating cabins. Existing floating cabins may remain moored on the Tennessee River System provided they remain in compliance with the rules in this part and obtain a section 26a permit from TVA issued after October 12, 2021. Existing floating cabins that do not apply for a permit by the deadline in this part or do not remain in compliance with the rules in this part are subject to the removal provisions of this part and section 9b of the TVA Act. All permits for nonnavigable houseboats or floating cabins that were not located on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016, are terminated. Unless otherwise noted, the term floating cabin refers to the primary structure on the monolithic frame as well as all attached structures.
§ 1304.101   Floating cabins.
(a)(1) Floating cabins include nonnavigable houseboats approved by TVA as of December 16, 2016, and other floating structures moored on the Tennessee River System as of this date and determined by TVA in its sole discretion to be designed and used primarily for human habitation or occupation and not designed and used primarily for navigation or transportation on the water as of December 16, 2016. If, at any time, the floating cabin is modified such that it no longer meets the criteria to be deemed a floating cabin, the approval for that existing floating cabin will be terminated. TVA's judgment will be guided by, but not limited to, the following factors:
(i) Whether the structure is usually kept at a fixed mooring point;
(ii) Whether the structure is actually used on a regular basis for transportation or navigation;
(iii) Whether the structure has a permanent or continuous connection to the shore for electrical, plumbing, water, or other utility service;
(iv) Whether the structure has the performance characteristics of a vessel typically used for navigation or transportation on water;
(v) Whether the structure can be readily removed from the water;
(vi) Whether the structure is used for intermittent or extended human-habitation or occupancy;
(vii) Whether the structure clearly has a means of propulsion, and appropriate power/size ratio;
(viii) Whether the structure is safe to navigate or use for transportation purposes.
(2) That a structure could occasionally move from place to place, or that it qualifies under another federal or state regulatory program as a vessel or boat, are factors that TVA also will consider but would not be determinative. Floating cabins are not recreational vessels to which § 1304.409 applies.
(b) Owners of floating cabins are required to register the floating cabin with TVA by January 10, 2022. Floating cabin owners shall include the following information with their registration: Clear and current photographs of the structure; a drawing or drawings showing in reasonable detail the size and shape of the floating cabin (length, width, and height) and attached structures, such as decks or slips (length, width, and height); and a completed and signed TVA registration form. The completed TVA registration form shall include the mailing and contact information of the owner(s); the TVA permit or TVA-issued numbers (when applicable); the mooring location of the floating cabin; how the floating cabin is moored; how electrical service is provided; how wastewater and sewage are managed; and an owner's signature.
(c) All floating cabins shall comply with the rules contained in this part and make application for a section 26a permit by October 1, 2029. TVA may, at its sole discretion, deny an initial application for a floating cabin submitted after this date. Unpermitted structures are subject to the removal provisions of this part and section 9b of the TVA Act.
(d) Existing floating cabins may remain on the Tennessee River System provided they stay in compliance with the rules contained in this part and pay any necessary and reasonable fees levied by TVA to ensure compliance with TVA's regulations, in accordance with section 9b of the TVA Act.
(e) Existing floating cabins must be moored at one of the following locations:
(1) To the bank of the reservoir at locations where the owner of the floating cabin is the owner or lessee (or the licensee of such owner or lessee) of the proposed mooring location provided the floating cabin was moored at such location as of December 16, 2016;
(2) At locations described by § 1304.201(a)(1), (2), and (3) provided the floating cabin was moored at such location as of December 16, 2016;
(3) To the bank of the reservoir at locations where the owner of the floating cabin obtained written approval from TVA pursuant to subpart A of this part authorizing mooring at such location as of December 16, 2016; or
(4) Within the designated and approved harbor limits of a commercial marina that complies with § 1304.404. As provided in § 1304.404, TVA may adjust harbor limits and require relocation of an existing floating cabin within the harbor limits.
(f) Applications for mooring of a floating cabin outside of designated harbor limits will be disapproved if TVA determines that the proposed mooring location would be contrary to the intent of this subpart.
(g) A floating cabin moored at a location approved pursuant to this subpart shall not be relocated and moored at a different location without a permit from TVA, except for movement to a new location within the designated harbor limits of the same commercial marina. Existing floating cabins may only relocate to the harbor limits of a commercial marina that complies with § 1304.404 on the same reservoir where the floating cabin was moored as of December 16, 2016. Relocation of a floating cabin to another TVA reservoir is prohibited.
(h)(1) Existing floating cabins shall be maintained in a good state of repair and may be maintained without additional approval from TVA. By way of example, these activities may include painting, changing the internal walls within the existing enclosed space, replacing the shingles, siding, electrical wiring, or plumbing, or adding new flotation in compliance with § 1304.400. Repair and maintenance activities shall not modify the dimensions (length, width, and height) of the floating cabin, any external walls, or the enclosed or open space.
(2) Any alterations to the dimensions or approved plans for an existing floating cabin (monolithic frame or attached structure) shall be deemed a structural modification and shall require prior written approval from TVA. All expansions in length, width, or height are prohibited, except under the following circumstances if approved in writing in advance by TVA. Structural modifications to attached structures are subject to § 1304.101(i).
(i) TVA may allow alterations necessary to comply with health, safety, and environmental standards;
(ii) TVA may allow changes in roof pitch or allow open portions of the monolithic frame to be covered, but no part of the floating cabin may exceed a total height of 14 feet above the lowest floor level; or
(iii) TVA may allow enclosure of existing open space on the monolithic frame of the existing floating cabin if the enclosure will not result in expansion to the dimensions (length, width, and height) of the monolithic frame, subject to § 1304.101(i). At least 24 contiguous square feet of open space with a minimum width of four feet shall be maintained on the monolithic frame for unrestricted boarding.
(3) Owners must submit an application to TVA sixty (60) days in advance of proposed rebuilding of an entire or significant portion of a floating cabin (monolithic frame or attached structures). The owner shall not begin construction until prior written acknowledgment from TVA is received. Plans for removal of the existing floating cabin or portions to be rebuilt shall be acknowledged in writing by TVA before removal occurs, and the removal shall be at the owner's expense before construction of the rebuild may begin. The owner shall provide evidence of approval from the marina operator to rebuild within the approved harbor limits of a commercial marina. TVA may require a new permit for the proposed rebuilding. Construction of the rebuilt floating cabin must be completed within 18 months. The rebuilt monolithic frame of the floating cabin shall match the exact configuration and dimensions (length, width, and height) of both the total monolithic frame and the enclosed and open space as approved by TVA; attached structures are subject to § 1304.101(i). The footprint of the attached structures shall not be incorporated into the footprint of the monolithic frame of the floating cabin.
(4) TVA may allow the exchange of multiple existing floating cabins removed from the Tennessee River System for a single combined floating cabin under the following conditions:
(i) Prior written approval from TVA shall be obtained before taking any actions. Evidence shall be provided to TVA that all existing floating cabins to be exchanged were located on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016.
(ii) Plans for removal of the existing floating cabin(s) shall be approved in writing by TVA before removal occurs, and the floating cabin(s) shall be removed at the owner's expense before construction of the new combined floating cabin may begin. Approvals of the existing floating cabins to be exchanged will be terminated. Construction on the new combined floating cabin must be completed within 18 months.
(iii) The combined floating cabin shall be moored within the harbor limits of a commercial marina that complies with § 1304.404. The owner shall provide evidence of approval from the marina operator to locate within the marina. The combined floating cabin must be located on the same reservoir as any of the existing floating cabins to be exchanged.
(iv) The maximum total size of the monolithic frame of the combined floating cabin is 1,000 square feet or the sum of the square footage of the monolithic frames of the existing exchanged floating cabins, whichever is less. At least 24 contiguous square feet with a minimum width of four feet must remain open to allow for unrestricted boarding of the combined floating cabin. Any square footage of the existing exchanged floating cabins that exceeds the maximum allowable total size of the combined floating cabin is not transferrable to other projects or owners.
(v) The maximum height of any part of the combined floating cabin is 14 feet above the lowest floor level.
(vi) Floating attached structures, such as decks or platforms, are subject to § 1304.101(i).
(i) With written approval from TVA, floating cabins may be accompanied by floating attached structures subject to the following:
(1) A single floating cabin may have multiple floating attached structures. The footprint of each attached structure will be measured as a rectangular or square area. The total footprint of all attached structures for a single floating cabin cannot exceed 400 square feet or the total footprint of the existing attached structures that were part of the floating cabin as of December 16, 2016, whichever is greater.
(2) The footprint of the attached structures shall not be incorporated into the footprint of the monolithic frame of the floating cabin.
(3) Attached structures shall not exceed 14 feet in height from the lowest floor level, shall not be enclosed, shall not be connected to the monolithic frame by a single roofline, and shall comply with § 1304.204(p).
(4) All attached structures must be permitted to the floating cabin owner. The owner shall provide evidence of approval from the marina operator for the attached structures.
(5) Existing attached structures that were part of the floating cabin as of December 16, 2016, may remain with written approval from TVA. Any requests to rebuild or reconfigure attached structures must comply with § 1304.101(i)(1) through (4). Attached structures associated with a request for a structural modification as described in § 1304.101(h)(2)(iii) or a combined floating cabin as described in § 1304.101(h)(4) shall not exceed a total footprint of 400 square feet.
(j) Any floating cabin not in compliance with this part is subject to the applicable removal provisions of § 1304.406 and section 9b of the TVA Act.
§ 1304.102   Numbering of floating cabins and change in ownership.
(a) All approved floating cabins and attached structures shall display a number assigned by TVA. The owner of the floating cabin shall paint or attach a facsimile of the number on a readily visible part of the outside of the facilities in letters at least three inches high. If TVA provided a placard or tag, it must be displayed on a readily visible part of the outside of the floating cabin.
(b) When there is a change in ownership of the floating cabin, the new owner shall notify TVA within 60 days. Upon application to TVA by the new owner, the new owner may continue to use the existing floating cabin or carry out permitted activities pending TVA's decision on reissuance of the permit. TVA shall reissue the permit upon determining the floating cabin is in good repair, is the same configuration and dimensions (length, width, and height) of both the floating cabin and the enclosed and open space as previously permitted, moored in the same location or in the harbor limits of the same commercial marina, and complies with the conditions of the previous approval and the requirements of this subpart.
§ 1304.103   Health, safety, and environmental standards.
(a) Wastewater. Floating cabins shall comply with § 1304.2(d) with regard to discharges into navigable waters of the United States. All discharges, sewage, and wastewater, and the pumping, collection, storage, transport, and treatment of sewage and wastewater shall be managed in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations (satisfactory evidence of compliance to be provided to TVA upon request). Upon receipt of documentation that a floating cabin is in violation of any federal, state, or local discharge or water quality regulation by the respective regulatory agency or upon failure to provide satisfactory evidence of compliance at TVA's request, TVA is authorized to revoke the permit and require removal of the floating cabin from the Tennessee River System if the violation is not corrected as specified by the regulatory agency in accordance with the agency's requirements or if satisfactory evidence of compliance is not provided to TVA.
(b) Flotation. Floating cabins shall comply with the requirements for flotation devices and material contained in § 1304.400.
(c) Mooring. All floating cabins must be moored in such a manner as to:
(1) Avoid obstruction of or interference with navigation, flood control, public lands, or reservations;
(2) Avoid adverse effects on public lands or reservations;
(3) Prevent the preemption of public waters when moored in permanent locations outside of the approved harbor limits of commercial marinas;
(4) Protect land and land rights owned by the United States alongside and subjacent to TVA reservoirs from trespass and other unlawful and unreasonable uses;
(5) Maintain, protect, and enhance the quality of the human environment;
(6) Ensure visibility of all mooring cables; and
(7) Comply with § 1304.205(c).
(d) Electrical. Floating cabins shall comply with all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding electrical wiring and equipment (satisfactory evidence of compliance to be provided to TVA upon request). Upon receipt of documentation that a floating cabin is in violation of any federal, state, or local electrical standard or regulation by the respective regulatory agency or upon failure to provide satisfactory evidence of compliance at TVA's request, TVA is authorized to revoke the permit and require removal of the floating cabin from the Tennessee River System if the violation is not corrected as specified by the regulatory agency in accordance with the agency's requirements or if satisfactory evidence of compliance is not provided to TVA. Floating cabins shall comply with § 1304.209(c)(2).
§ 1304.200   Scope and intent.
This subpart C applies to residential water-use facilities, specifically the construction of docks, piers, boathouses (fixed and floating), retaining walls, and other structures and alterations, including channel excavation and vegetation management, on or along TVA-owned residential access shoreland. TVA manages the TVA-owned residential access shoreland to conserve, protect, and enhance shoreland resources, while providing reasonable access to the water of the reservoir by qualifying adjacent residents.
§ 1304.201   Applicability.
This subpart addresses residential-related (all private, noncommercial uses) construction activities along and across shoreland property owned by the United States and under the custody and control of TVA. Individual residential landowners wishing to construct facilities, clear vegetation and/or maintain an access corridor on adjacent TVA-owned lands are required to apply for and obtain a permit from TVA before conducting any such activities.
(a) This subpart applies to the following TVA-reservoir shoreland classifications:
(1) TVA-owned shorelands over which the adjacent residential landowner holds rights of ingress and egress to the water (except where a particular activity is specifically excluded by an applicable real estate document), including, at TVA's discretion, cases where the applicant owns access rights across adjoining private property that borders on and benefits from rights of ingress and egress across TVA-owned shoreland.
(2) TVA-owned shorelands designated in current TVA Reservoir Land Management Plans as open for consideration of residential development; and
(3) On reservoirs not having a current approved TVA Reservoir Land Management Plan at the time of application, TVA-owned shorelands designated in TVA's property forecast system as “reservoir operations property,” identified in a subdivision plat recorded prior to September 24, 1992, and containing at least one water-use facility developed prior to September 24, 1992.
(b) Construction of structures, access corridors, and vegetation management activities by owners of adjacent upland residential property shall not be allowed on any TVA-owned lands other than those described in one or more of the classifications identified in paragraph (a) of this section.
(c) Flowage easement shoreland. Except as otherwise specifically provided in subpart D of this part, this subpart C does not apply to shoreland where TVA's property interest is ownership of a flowage easement. The terms of the particular flowage easement and subparts A, B, D, and E of this part govern the use of such property.
§ 1304.202   General sediment and erosion control provisions.
(a) During construction activities, TVA shall require that appropriate erosion and sediment control measures be utilized to prevent pollution of the waters of the reservoir.
(b) All material which accumulates behind sediment control structures must be removed from TVA land and placed at an upland site above the 100-year floodplain elevation or the Flood Risk Profile Elevation (whichever is applicable).
(c) Disturbed sites must be promptly stabilized with seeding, vegetative planting, erosion control netting, and/or mulch material.
§ 1304.203   Vegetation management.
No vegetation management shall be approved on TVA-owned Residential Access Shoreland until a Vegetation Management Plan meeting the vegetation management standards contained in this section is submitted to and approved by TVA.
(a) Except for the mowing of lawns established and existing before November 1, 1999, all vegetation management activities on TVA-owned property subject to this subpart (including all such activities described in paragraphs (b) through (m) of this section as “allowed” and all activities undertaken in connection with a section 26a permit obtained before September 8, 2003) require TVA's advance written permission. Special site circumstances such as the presence of wetlands may result in a requirement for mitigative measures or alternative vegetation management approaches.
(b) Vegetation may be cleared to create and maintain an access corridor up to but not exceeding 20 feet wide. The corridor will extend from the common boundary between TVA and the adjacent landowner to the water-use facility.
(c) The access corridor will be located to minimize removal of trees or other vegetation on the TVA land.
(d) Grass may be planted and mowed within the access corridor, and stone, brick, concrete, mulch, or wooden paths, walkways and/or steps are allowed. Pruning of side limbs that extend into the access corridor from trees located outside the access corridor is allowed.
(e) A 50-foot-deep shoreline management zone (SMZ) shall be designated by TVA on TVA property; provided, however, that where TVA ownership is insufficient to establish a 50-foot-deep SMZ, the SMZ shall consist only of all of the TVA land at the location (private land shall not be included within the SMZ). Within the SMZ, no trees may be cut or vegetation removed, except that which is preapproved by TVA within the access corridor.
(f) Within the 50-foot SMZ and elsewhere on TVA land as defined in § 1304.201, clearing of specified understory plants (poison ivy, Japanese honeysuckle, kudzu, and other exotic plants on a list provided by TVA) is allowed.
(g) On TVA land situated above the SMZ, selective thinning of trees or other vegetation under three inches in diameter at the ground level is allowed.
(h) Removal of trees outside of the access corridor but within the SMZ may be approved to make the site suitable for approved shoreline erosion control projects.
(i) Vegetation removed for erosion control projects must be replaced with native species of vegetation.
(j) The forest floor must be left undisturbed, except as specified in this section. Mowing is allowed only within the access corridor.
(k) Planting of trees, shrubs, wildflowers, native grasses, and ground covers within the SMZ is allowed to create, improve, or enhance the vegetative cover, provided native plants are used.
(l) Fertilizers and herbicides shall not be applied within the SMZ or elsewhere on TVA land, except as specifically approved in the Vegetative Management Plan.
(m) Restricted use herbicides and pesticides shall not be applied on TVA-owned shoreland except by a State certified applicator. All herbicides and pesticides shall be applied in accordance with label requirements.
§ 1304.204   Docks, piers, and boathouses.
Applicants are responsible for submitting plans for proposed docks, piers, and boathouses that conform to the size standards specified in this section. Where and if site constraints at the proposed construction location preclude a structure of the maximum size, TVA shall determine the size of facility that may be approved. Applicants are required to submit accurate drawings with dimensions of all proposed facilities.
(a) Docks, piers, boathouses, and all other residential water-use facilities shall not exceed a total footprint area of 1,000 square feet, unless the proposed water-use facility will be located in an area of preexisting development. For the purpose of this regulation, “preexisting development” means either: The water-use facility will be located in a subdivision recorded before November 1, 1999, and TVA permitted at least one water-use facility in the subdivision prior to November 1, 1999; or if there is no subdivision, where the water-use facility will be located within a quarter-mile radius of another water-use facility that TVA permitted prior to November 1, 1999. Water-use facilities located in an area of preexisting development shall not exceed a total footprint area of 1,800 square feet.
(b) Docks, boatslips, piers, and fixed or floating boathouses are allowable. These and other water-use facilities associated with a lot must be sited within a 1,000- or 1,800-square-foot rectangular or square area as required by § 1304.204(a) at the lakeward end of the access walkway that extends from the shore to the structure. Access walkways to the water-use structure are not included in calculating the 1,000- or 1,800-square foot area.
(c) Docks and walkway(s) shall not extend more than 150 feet from the shoreline, or more than one-third the distance to the opposite shoreline, whichever is less.
(d) All fixed piers and docks on Pickwick, Wilson, Wheeler, Guntersville, and Nickajack Reservoirs shall have deck elevations at least 18 inches above full summer pool level; facilities on all other reservoirs, shall be a minimum of 24 inches above full summer pool.
(e) All docks, piers, and other water-use facilities must be attached to the shore with a single walkway which must connect from land to the structure by the most direct route and must adjoin the access corridor.
(f) Docks, piers, and boathouses may be fixed or floating or a combination of the two types.
(g) Roofs are allowed on boatslips, except on Kentucky Reservoir where roofs are not allowed on fixed structures due to extreme water level fluctuations. Roofs over docks or piers to provide shade are allowed on all reservoirs.
(h) Docks proposed in subdivisions recorded after November 1, 1999, must be placed at least 50 feet from the neighbors' docks. When this density requirement cannot be met, TVA may require group or community facilities.
(i) Where the applicant owns or controls less than 50 feet of property adjoining TVA shoreland, the overall width of the facilities permitted along the shore shall be limited to ensure sufficient space to accommodate other property owners.
(j) Covered boatslips may be open or enclosed with siding.
(k) Access walkways constructed over water and internal walkways inside of boathouses shall not exceed six feet in width.
(l) Enclosed space shall be used solely for storage of water-use equipment. The outside dimensions of any completely enclosed storage space shall not exceed 32 square feet and must be located on an approved dock, pier, or boathouse.
(m) Docks, piers, and boathouses shall not contain living space or sleeping areas. Floor space shall not be considered enclosed if three of the four walls are constructed of wire or screen mesh from floor to ceiling, and the wire or screen mesh leaves the interior of the structure open to the weather.
(n) Except for floating cabins approved in accordance with subpart B of this part, toilets and sinks are not permitted on water-use facilities.
(o) Covered docks, boatslips, and boathouses shall not exceed one story in height.
(p) Second stories on covered docks, piers, boatslips, or boathouses may be constructed as open decks with railing, but shall not be covered by a roof or enclosed with siding or screening.
(q) In congested areas or in other circumstances deemed appropriate by TVA, TVA may require an applicant's dock, pier, or boathouse to be located on an area of TVA shoreline not directly fronting the applicant's property.
§ 1304.205   Other water-use facilities.
(a) A marine railway or concrete boat launching ramp with associated driveway may be located within the access corridor. Construction must occur during reservoir drawdown. Excavated material must be placed at an upland site. Use of concrete is allowable; asphalt is not permitted.
(b) Tables or benches for cleaning fish are permitted on docks or piers.
(c) All anchoring cables or spud poles must be anchored to the walkway or to the ground in a way that will not accelerate shoreline erosion. Anchoring of cables, chains, or poles to trees on TVA property is not permitted.
(d) Electrical appliances such as stoves, refrigerators, freezers, and microwave ovens are not permitted on docks, piers, or boathouses.
(e) Mooring buoys/posts may be permitted provided the following requirements are met.
(1) Posts and buoys shall be placed in such a manner that in TVA's judgment they would not create a navigation hazard.
(2) Mooring posts must be a minimum 48 inches in height above the full summer pool elevation of the reservoir or higher as required by TVA.
(3) Buoys must conform to the Uniform State Waterway Marking system.
(f) Structures shall not be wider than the width of the lot.
(g) In congested areas, TVA may establish special permit conditions requiring dry-docking of floating structures when a reservoir reaches a specific drawdown elevation to prevent these structures from interfering with navigation traffic, recreational boating access, or adjacent structures during winter drawdown.
(h) Closed loop heat exchanges for residential heat pump application may be approved provided they are installed five feet below minimum winter water elevation and they utilize propylene glycol or water. All land-based pipes must be buried within the access corridor.
§ 1304.206   Requirements for community docks, piers, boathouses, or other water-use facilities.
(a) Community facilities where individual facilities are not allowed:
(1) TVA may limit water-use facilities to community facilities where physical or environmental constraints preclude approval of individual docks, piers, or boathouses.
(2) When individual water-use facilities are not allowed, no more than one slip for each qualified applicant will be approved for any community facility. TVA shall determine the location of the facility and the named permittees, taking into consideration the preferences of the qualified applicants and such other factors as TVA determines to be appropriate.
(3) In narrow coves or other situations where shoreline frontage is limited, shoreline development may be limited to one landing dock for temporary moorage of boats not to exceed the 1000-square-foot footprint requirement, and/or a boat launching ramp, if the site, in TVA's judgment, will accommodate such development.
(b) Private and community facilities at jointly-owned community outlots:
(1) Applications for private or community facilities to be constructed at a jointly-owned community outlot must be submitted either with 100 percent concurrence of all co-owners of such lot, or with concurrence of the authorized representatives of a State-chartered homeowners association with the authority to manage the common lot on behalf of all persons having an interest in such lot. If the community facility will serve five or more other lots, the application must be submitted by the authorized representatives of such an association. TVA considers an association to have the necessary authority to manage the common lot if all co-owners are eligible for membership in the association and a majority are members. TVA may request the association to provide satisfactory evidence of its authority.
(2) Size and number of slips at community water-use facilities lots shall be determined by TVA with consideration of the following:
(i) Size of community outlot;
(ii) Parking accommodations on the community outlot;
(iii) Length of shoreline frontage associated with the community outlot;
(iv) Number of property owners having the right to use the community outlot;
(v) Water depths fronting the community lot;
(vi) Commercial and private vessel navigation uses and restrictions in the vicinity of the community lot;
(vii) Recreational carrying capacity for water-based activities in the vicinity of the community lot, and
(viii) Other site specific conditions and considerations as determined by TVA.
(3) Vegetation management shall be in accordance with the requirements of § 1304.203 except that, at TVA's discretion, the community access corridor may exceed 20 feet in width, and thinning of vegetation outside of the corridor within or beyond the SMZ may be allowed to enhance views of the reservoir.
(c) TVA may approve community facilities that are greater in size than 1000 square feet. In such circumstances, TVA also may establish harbor limits.
§ 1304.207   Channel excavation on TVA-owned residential access shoreland.
(a) Excavation of individual boat channels shall be approved only when TVA determines there is no other practicable alternative to achieving sufficient navigable water depth and the action would not substantially impact sensitive resources.
(b) No more than 150 cubic yards of material shall be removed for any individual boat channel.
(c) The length, width, and depth of approved boat channels shall not exceed the dimensions necessary to achieve three-foot water depths for navigation of the vessel at the minimum winter water elevation.
(d) Each side of the channel shall have a slope ratio of at least 3:1.
(e) Only one boat channel or harbor may be considered for each abutting property owner.
(f) The grade of the channel must allow drainage of water during reservoir drawdown periods.
(g) Channel excavations must be accomplished during the reservoir drawdown when the reservoir bottom is exposed and dry.
(h) Spoil material from channel excavations must be placed in accordance with any applicable local, State, and Federal regulations at an upland site above the TVA Flood Risk Profile elevation. For those reservoirs that have no flood control storage, dredge spoil must be disposed of and stabilized above the limits of the 100-year floodplain and off of TVA property.
§ 1304.208   Shoreline stabilization on TVA-owned residential access shoreland.
TVA may issue permits allowing adjacent residential landowners to stabilize eroding shorelines on TVA-owned residential access shoreland. TVA will determine if shoreline erosion is sufficient to approve the proposed stabilization treatment.
(a) Biostabilization of eroded shorelines.
(1) Moderate contouring of the bank may be allowed to provide conditions suitable for planting of vegetation.
(2) Tightly bound bundles of coconut fiber, logs, or other natural materials may be placed at the base of the eroded site to deflect waves.
(3) Willow stakes and bundles and live cuttings of suitable native plant materials may be planted along the surface of the eroded area.
(4) Native vegetation may be planted within the shoreline management zone to help minimize further erosion.
(5) Riprap may be allowed along the base of the eroded area to prevent further undercutting of the bank.
(b) Use of gabions and riprap to stabilize eroded shorelines.
(1) The riprap material must be quarry-run stone, natural stone, or other material approved by TVA.
(2) Rubber tires, concrete rubble, or other debris salvaged from construction sites shall not be used to stabilize shorelines.
(3) Gabions (rock wrapped with wire mesh) that are commercially manufactured for erosion control may be used.
(4) Riprap material must be placed so as to follow the existing contour of the bank.
(5) Site preparation must be limited to the work necessary to obtain adequate slope and stability of the riprap material.
(c) Use of retaining walls for shoreline stabilization.
(1) Retaining walls shall be allowed only where the erosion process is severe and TVA determines that a retaining wall is the most effective erosion control option or where the proposed wall would connect to an existing TVA-approved wall on the lot or to an adjacent owner's TVA-approved wall.
(2) The retaining wall must be constructed of stone, concrete blocks, poured concrete, gabions, or other materials acceptable to TVA. Railroad ties, rubber tires, broken concrete (unless determined by TVA to be of adequate size and integrity), brick, creosote timbers, and asphalt are not allowed.
(3) Reclamation of land that has been lost to erosion is not allowed.
(4) The base of the retaining wall shall not be located more than an average of two horizontal feet lakeward of the existing full summer pool water. Riprap shall be placed at least two feet in depth along the footer of the retaining wall to deflect wave action and reduce undercutting that could eventually damage the retaining wall.
§ 1304.209   Land-based structures/alterations.
(a) Except for steps, pathways, boat launching ramps, marine railways located in the access corridor, bank stabilization along the shoreline, and other uses described in this subpart, no permanent structures, fills or grading shall be allowed on TVA land.
(b) Portable items such as picnic tables and hammocks may be placed on TVA land; permanent land-based structures and facilities such as picnic pavilions, gazebos, satellite antennas, septic tanks, and septic drainfields shall not be allowed on TVA land.
(c) Utility lines (electric, water-intake lines, etc.) may be placed within the access corridor as follows:
(1) Power lines, poles, electrical panel, and wiring must be installed:
(i) In a way that would not be hazardous to the public or interfere with TVA operations;
(ii) Solely to serve water-use facilities, and
(iii) In compliance with all State and local electrical codes (satisfactory evidence of compliance to be provided to TVA upon request).
(2) Electrical service must be installed with an electrical disconnect that is:
(i) Located above the 500-year floodplain or the flood risk profile, whichever is higher, and
(ii) Is accessible during flood events.
(3) TVA's issuance of a permit does not mean that TVA has determined the facilities are safe for any purpose or that TVA has any duty to make such a determination.
(d) Fences crossing TVA residential access shoreland may be considered only where outstanding agricultural rights or fencing rights exist and the land is used for agricultural purposes. Fences must have a built-in means for easy pedestrian passage by the public and they must be clearly marked.
§ 1304.210   Grandfathering of preexisting shoreland uses and structures.
In order to provide for a smooth transition to new standards, grandfathering provisions shall apply as follows to preexisting development and shoreland uses established prior to November 1, 1999, which are located along or adjoin TVA-owned access residential shoreland.
(a) Existing shoreline structures (docks, retaining walls, etc.) previously permitted by TVA are grandfathered.
(b) Grandfathered structures may continue to be maintained in accordance with previous permit requirements, and TVA does not require modification to conform to new standards.
(c) If a permitted structure is destroyed by fire or storms, the permit shall be reissued if the replacement facility is rebuilt to specifications originally permitted by TVA.
(d) Vegetation management at grandfathered developments shall be as follows:
(1) Mowing of lawns established on TVA-owned residential access shoreland prior to November 1, 1999, may be continued without regard to whether the lawn uses are authorized by a TVA permit.
(2) At sites where mowing of lawns established prior to November 1, 1999, is not specifically included as an authorized use in an existing permit, TVA will include mowing as a permitted use in the next permit action at that site.
(3) The SMZ is not required where established lawns existed prior to November 1, 1999.
(4) Any additional removal of trees or other vegetation (except for mowing of lawns established prior to November 1, 1999) requires TVA's approval in accordance with § 1304.203. Removal of trees greater than three inches in diameter at ground level is not allowed.
§ 1304.211   Change in ownership of grandfathered structures or alterations.
(a) When ownership of a permitted structure or other shoreline alteration changes, the new owner shall comply with § 1304.10 regarding notice to TVA.
(b) The new owner may, upon application to TVA for a permit, continue to use existing permitted docks and other shoreline alterations pending TVA action on the application.
(c) Subsequent owners are not required to modify to new standards existing shoreline alterations constructed and maintained in accordance with the standards in effect at the time the previous permit was first issued, and they may continue mowing established lawns that existed prior to November 1, 1999.
(d) New owners wishing to continue existing grandfathered activities and structures must:
(1) Maintain existing permitted docks, piers, boathouses, and other shoreline structures in good repair.
(2) Obtain TVA approval for any repairs that would alter the size of the facility, create a structural modification, for any new construction, or for removal of trees or other vegetation (except for mowing of lawns established prior to November 1, 1999).
§ 1304.212   Waivers.
(a) Waivers of standards contained in this subpart may be requested when the following minimum criteria are established:
(1) The property is within a preexisting development as defined in § 1304.204(a); and
(2) The proposed shoreline alterations are compatible with surrounding permitted structures and uses within the subdivision or, if there is no subdivision, within the immediate vicinity (one-fourth mile radius).
(b) In approving waivers of the standards of this subpart C, TVA will consider the following:
(1) The prevailing permitted practices within the subdivision or immediate vicinity; and
(2) The uses permitted under the guidelines followed by TVA before November 1, 1999.
§ 1304.300   Scope and intent.
Any structure built upon land subject to a flowage easement held by TVA shall be deemed an obstruction affecting navigation, flood control, or public lands or reservations within the meaning of section 26a of the Act. Such obstructions shall be subject to all requirements of this part except those contained in subpart C of this part, which shall apply as follows:
(a) All of § 1304.212 shall apply.
(b) Sections 1304.200, 1304.203, 1304.207, and 1304.209 shall not apply.
(c) Section 1304.201 shall not apply except for paragraph (c).
(d) Section 1304.202 shall apply except that TVA shall determine on a case-by-case basis whether it is necessary to remove materials accumulated behind sediment control structures to an upland site.
(e) Section 1304.204 shall apply except that the “50 feet” trigger of paragraph (i) of that section shall not apply. TVA may impose appropriate requirements to ensure accommodation of neighboring landowners.
(f) Section 1304.205 shall apply except that the facilities described in paragraph (a) are not limited to locations within an access corridor.
(g) Section 1304.206 shall apply except for paragraph (b)(3).
(h) Section 1304.208 shall apply except that TVA approval shall not be required to conduct the activities described in paragraph (a).
(i) Section 1304.210 shall apply except for paragraph (d).
(j) Section 1304.211 shall apply except to the extent that it would restrict mowing or other vegetation management.
(k) Nothing contained in this part shall be construed to be in derogation of the rights of the United States or of TVA under any flowage easement held by the United States or TVA.
§ 1304.301   Utilities.
Upon application to and approval by TVA, utility lines (electric, water-intake lines, etc.) may be placed within the flowage easement area as follows:
(a) Power lines, poles, electrical panels, and wiring shall be installed:
(1) In a way that would not be hazardous to the public or interfere with TVA operations; and
(2) In compliance with all State and local electrical codes (satisfactory evidence of compliance to be provided to TVA upon request).
(b) Electrical service shall be installed with an electrical disconnect that is located above the 500-year floodplain or the flood risk profile, whichever is higher, and is accessible during flood events.
(c) TVA's issuance of a permit does not mean that TVA has determined the facilities are safe for any purpose or that TVA has any duty to make such a determination.
§ 1304.302   Vegetation management on flowage easement shoreland.
Removal, modification, or establishment of vegetation on privately-owned shoreland subject to a TVA flowage easement generally does not require approval by TVA. When reviewing proposals for docks or other obstructions on flowage easement shoreland, TVA shall consider the potential for impacts to sensitive plants or other resources and may establish conditions in its approval of a proposal to avoid or minimize such impacts consistent with applicable laws and executive orders.
§ 1304.303   Channel excavation.
(a) Channel excavation of privately-owned reservoir bottom subject to a TVA flowage easement does not require approval by TVA under section 26a if:
(1) All dredged material is placed above the limits of the 100-year floodplain or the TVA flood risk profile elevation, whichever is applicable, and
(2) The dredging is not being accomplished in conjunction with the construction of a structure requiring a section 26a permit.
(b) Any fill material placed within the flood control zone of a TVA reservoir requires TVA review and approval.
(c) TVA shall encourage owners of flowage easement property to adopt the standards for channel excavation applicable to TVA-owned residential access shoreland.
§ 1304.400   Flotation devices and material, all floating structures.
(a)(1) By December 31, 2031, all unencased ( i.e., Styrofoam) flotation shall have been removed and replaced with flotation consistent with this subpart. Structures continuing to use unencased flotation after December 31, 2031, will be subject to removal under § 1304.406. Use or reuse of unencased flotation for repairs, replacement, or new construction is prohibited. Existing unencased flotation (secured in place prior to September 8, 2003) may continue to be used until December 31, 2031, so long as it remains attached and in good condition in TVA's judgement. If, in TVA's judgement, the flotation is no longer serviceable, it shall be replaced with approved flotation within 24 months upon notification from TVA.
(2) All flotation for docks, boat mooring buoys, floating cabins and attached structures, and other water-use structures and facilities, shall be of materials commercially manufactured for marine use. Flotation materials shall be fabricated so as not to crack, peel, fragment, become water-logged, or be subject to loss of beads. Flotation materials shall be resistant to puncture, penetration, damage by animals, and fire. Any flotation within 40 feet of a line carrying fuel shall be 100 percent impervious to water and fuel. Use of plastic, metal, or other previously used drums or containers for encasement or flotation purposes is prohibited, except as provided in paragraph (c) of this section for certain metal drums already in use. For any flotation devices or material, repair or replacement is required when it no longer performs its designated function or it exhibits any of the conditions prohibited by this subpart.
(b) Because of the possible release of toxic or polluting substances, and the hazard to navigation from metal drums that become partially filled with water and escape from docks, boathouses, houseboats, floats, and other water-use structures and facilities for which they are used for flotation, the use of metal drums in any form, except as authorized in paragraph (c) of this section, for flotation of any facilities is prohibited.
(c) Only metal drums which have been filled with plastic foam or other solid flotation materials and welded, strapped, or otherwise firmly secured in place prior to July 1, 1972, on existing facilities are permitted. Replacement of any metal drum flotation permitted to be used by this paragraph must be with a commercially manufactured flotation device or material specifically designed for marine applications (for example, pontoons, boat hulls, or other buoyancy devices made of steel, aluminum, fiberglass, or plastic foam, as provided for in paragraph (a) of this section).
(d) Every flotation device employed in the Tennessee River system must be firmly and securely affixed to the structure it supports with materials capable of withstanding prolonged exposure to wave wash and weather conditions.
§ 1304.401   Marine sanitation devices.
No person operating a commercial boat dock permitted under this part shall allow the mooring at such permitted facility of any watercraft or floating structure equipped with a marine sanitation device (MSD) unless such MSD is in compliance with all applicable statutes and regulations, including the FWPCA and regulations issued thereunder, and, where applicable, statutes and regulations governing “no discharge” zones.
§ 1304.402   Wastewater outfalls.
Applicants for a wastewater outfall shall provide copies of all Federal, State, and local permits, licenses, and approvals required for the facility prior to applying for TVA approval, or shall concurrently with the TVA application apply for such approvals. A section 26a permit shall not be issued until other required water quality approvals are obtained, and TVA reserves the right to impose additional requirements.
§ 1304.403   Marina sewage pump-out stations and holding tanks.
All pump-out facilities constructed after September 8, 2003 shall meet the following minimum design and operating requirements:
(a) Spill-proof connection with shipboard holding tanks;
(b) Suction controls or vacuum breaker capable of limiting suction to such levels as will avoid collapse of rigid holding tanks;
(c) Available fresh water facilities for tank flushing;
(d) Check valve and positive cut-off or other device to preclude spillage when breaking connection with vessel being severed;
(e) Adequate interim storage where storage is necessary before transfer to approved treatment facilities;
(f) No overflow outlet capable of discharging effluent into the reservoir;
(g) Alarm system adequate to notify the operator when the holding tank is full;
(h) Convenient access to holding tanks and piping system for purposes of inspection;
(i) Spill-proof features adequate for transfer of sewage from all movable floating pump-out facilities to shore-based treatment plants or intermediate transfer facilities;
(j) A reliable disposal method consisting of:
(1) An approved upland septic system that meets TVA, State, and local requirements; or
(2) Proof of a contract with a sewage disposal contractor; and
(k) A written statement to TVA certifying that the system shall be operated and maintained in such a way as to prevent any discharge or seepage of wastewater or sewage into the reservoir.
§ 1304.404   Commercial marina harbor limits.
The landward limits of commercial marina harbor areas are determined by the extent of land rights held by the dock operator. The lakeward limits of harbors at commercial marinas will be designated by TVA on the basis of the size and extent of facilities at the dock, navigation and flood control requirements, optimum use of lands and land rights owned by the United States, carrying capacity of the reservoir area in the vicinity of the marina, and on the basis of the environmental effects associated with the use of the harbor. Mooring buoys, slips, breakwaters, and permanent anchoring are prohibited beyond the lakeward extent of harbor limits. TVA may, at its discretion, reconfigure harbor limits based on changes in circumstances, including but not limited to, changes in the ownership of the land base supporting the marina.
§ 1304.405   Fuel storage tanks and handling facilities.
Fuel storage tanks and handling facilities are generally either underground (UST) or aboveground (AST) storage tank systems. An UST is any one or combination of tanks or tank systems defined in applicable Federal or State regulations as an UST. Typically (unless otherwise provided by applicable Federal or State rules), an UST is used to contain a regulated substance (such as a petroleum product) and has 10 percent or more of its total volume beneath the surface of the ground. The total volume includes any piping used in the system. An UST may be a buried tank, or an aboveground tank with buried piping if the piping holds 10 percent or more of the total system volume including the tank. For purposes of this part, an aboveground storage tank (AST) is any storage tank whose total volume (piping and tank) is less than 10 percent underground or any storage tank defined by applicable law or regulation as an AST.
(a) TVA requires the following to be included in all applications submitted after September 8, 2003 to install an UST or any part of an UST system below the 500-year flood elevation on a TVA reservoir, or regulated tailwater:
(1) A copy of the State approval for the UST along with a copy of the application sent to the State and any plans or drawings that were submitted for the State's review;
(2) Evidence of secondary containment for all piping or other systems associated with the UST;
(3) Evidence of secondary containment to contain leaks from gas pump(s);
(4) Calculations certified by a licensed, professional engineer in the relevant State showing how the tank will be anchored so that it does not float during flooding; and
(5) Evidence, where applicable, that the applicant has complied with all spill prevention, control and countermeasures (SPCC) requirements.
(b) The applicant must accept and sign a document stating that the applicant shall at all times be the owner of the UST system, that TVA shall have the right (but no duty) to prevent or remedy pollution or violations of law, including removal of the UST system, with costs charged to the applicant, that the applicant shall at all times maintain and operate the UST system in full compliance with applicable Federal, State, and local UST regulations, and that the applicant shall maintain eligibility in any applicable State trust fund.
(c) An application to install an AST or any part of an AST system below the 500-year elevation on a TVA reservoir or a regulated tailwater is subject to all of the requirements of paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section except that paragraph (a)(1) shall not apply in States that do not require application or approval for installation of an AST. Eligibility must be maintained for any applicable AST trust fund, and the system must be maintained and operated in accordance with any applicable AST regulations. The applicant must notify and obtain any required documents or permission from the State fire marshal's office prior to installation of the AST. The applicant must also follow the National Fire Protection Association Codes 30 and 30A for installation and maintenance of flammable and combustible liquids storage tanks at marine service stations.
(d) Fuel handling on private, non-commercial docks and piers. TVA will not approve the installation, operation, or maintenance of fuel handling facilities on any private, non-commercial dock or pier.
(e) Floating fuel handling facilities. TVA will not approve the installation of any floating fuel handling facility or fuel storage tank.
(f) Demonstration of financial responsibility. Applicants for a fuel handling facility to be located in whole or in part on TVA land shall be required to provide TVA, in a form and amount acceptable to TVA, a surety bond, irrevocable letter of credit, pollution liability insurance, or other evidence of financial responsibility in the event of a release.
§ 1304.406   Removal of unauthorized, unsafe, and derelict structures or facilities.
If, at any time, any dock, wharf, boathouse (fixed or floating), floating cabin, outfall, aerial cable or other fixed or floating structure or facility (including any navigable boat or vessel that has become deteriorated or is a potential navigation hazard or impediment to flood control) is anchored, installed, constructed or moored in a manner inconsistent with this part, or is not constructed in accordance with TVA's approval or plans approved by TVA, or is not maintained or operated so as to remain in accordance with this part and such approval or plans, or is not kept in a good state of repair and in good, safe and substantial condition, and the owner or operator thereof fails to repair or remove such structure (or operate or maintain it in accordance with such approval or plans) within ninety (90) days after written notice from TVA to do so, TVA may cancel any license, permit, or approval and remove such structure, and/or cause it to be removed, from the Tennessee River system and/or lands in the custody and control of TVA. Such written notice may be given by mailing a copy thereof to the owner's address as listed on the license, permit, or approval or by posting a copy on the structure or facility. TVA may remove or cause to be removed any such structure or facility anchored, installed, constructed, or moored without such license, permit, or approval, whether such license or approval has once been obtained and subsequently canceled, or whether it has never been obtained. TVA's removal costs shall be charged to the owner of the structure, and payment of such costs shall be a condition of approval for any future facility proposed to serve the tract of land at issue or any tract derived therefrom whether or not the current owner caused such charges to be incurred. In addition, any applicant with an outstanding removal charge payable to TVA shall, until such time as the charge be paid in full, be ineligible to receive a permit or approval from TVA for any facility located anywhere along or in the Tennessee River or its tributaries. TVA shall not be responsible for the loss of property associated with the removal of any such structure or facility including, without limitation, the loss of any navigable boat or vessel moored at such a facility. Any costs voluntarily incurred by TVA to protect and store such property shall be removal costs within the meaning of this section, and TVA may sell such property and apply the proceeds toward any and all of its removal costs. Small businesses seeking expedited consideration of the economic impact of actions under this section may contact TVA's Supplier and Diverse Business Relations staff, TVA Procurement, 1101 Market Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee 37402-2801.
§ 1304.407   Development within flood control storage zones of TVA reservoirs.
(a) Activities involving development within the flood control storage zone on TVA reservoirs will be reviewed to determine if the proposed activity qualifies as a repetitive action. Under TVA's implementation of Executive Order 11988, Floodplain Management, repetitive actions are projects within a class of actions TVA has determined to be approvable without further review and documentation related to flood control storage, provided the loss of flood control storage caused by the project does not exceed one acre-foot. A partial list of repetitive actions includes:
(1) Private and public water-use facilities;
(2) Commercial recreation boat dock and water-use facilities;
(3) Water intake structures;
(4) Outfalls;
(5) Mooring and loading facilities for barge terminals;
(6) Minor grading and fills; and
(7) Bridges and culverts for pedestrian, highway, and railroad crossings.
(b) Projects resulting in flood storage loss in excess of one acre-foot will not be considered repetitive actions.
(c) For projects not qualifying as repetitive actions, the applicant shall be required, as appropriate, to evaluate alternatives to the placement of fill or the construction of a project within the flood control storage zone that would result in lost flood control storage. The alternative evaluation would either identify a better option or support and document that there is no reasonable alternative to the loss of flood control storage. If this determination can be made, the applicant must then demonstrate how the loss of flood control storage will be minimized.
(1) In addition, documentation shall be provided regarding:
(i) The amount of anticipated flood control storage loss;
(ii) The cost of compensation of the displaced flood control storage (how much it would cost to excavate material from the flood control storage zone, haul it to an upland site and dispose of it);
(iii) The cost of mitigation of the displaced flood control storage (how much it would cost to excavate material from another site within the flood control storage zone, haul it to the project site and use as the fill material);
(iv) The cost of the project; and
(v) The nature and significance of any economic and/or natural resource benefits that would be realized as a result of the project.
(2) TVA may, in its discretion, decline to permit any project that would result in the loss of flood control storage.
(d) Recreational vehicles parked or placed within flood control storage zones of TVA reservoirs shall be deemed an obstruction affecting navigation, flood control, or public lands or reservations within the meaning of section 26a of the Act unless they:
(1) Remain truly mobile and ready for highway use. The unit must be on its wheels or a jacking system and be attached to its site by only quick disconnect type utilities;
(2) Have no permanently attached additions, connections, foundations, porches, or similar structures; and
(3) Have an electrical cutoff switch that is located above the flood control zone and fully accessible during flood events.
§ 1304.408   Variances.
The Vice President or the designee thereof is authorized, following consideration whether a proposed structure or other regulated activity would adversely impact navigation, flood control, public lands or reservations, power generation, the environment, or sensitive environmental resources, or would be incompatible with surrounding uses or inconsistent with an approved TVA reservoir land management plan, to approve a structure or activity that varies from the requirements of this part in minor aspects.
§ 1304.409   Indefinite or temporary moorage of recreational vessels.
(a) Recreational vessels' moorage at unpermitted locations along the water's edge of any TVA reservoir may not exceed 14 consecutive days at any one place or at any place within one mile thereof.
(b) Recreational vessels may not establish temporary moorage within the limits of primary or secondary navigation channels.
(c) Moorage lines of recreational vessels may not be placed in such a way as to block or hinder boating access to any part of the reservoir.
(d) Permanent or extended moorage of a recreational vessel along the shoreline of any TVA reservoir without approval under section 26a of the TVA Act is prohibited.
§ 1304.410   Navigation restrictions.
(a) Except for the placement of riprap along the shoreline, structures, land based or water use, shall not be located within the limits of safety harbors and landings established for commercial navigation.
(b) Structures shall not be located in such a way as to block the visibility of navigation aids. Examples of navigation aids are lights, dayboards, and directional signs.
(c) The establishment of “no-wake” zones outside approved harbor limits is prohibited at marinas or community dock facilities that are adjacent to or near a commercial navigation channel. In such circumstances, facility owners may, upon approval from TVA, install a floating breakwater along the harbor limit to reduce wave and wash action.
§ 1304.411   Fish attractor, spawning, and habitat structures.
Fish attractors constitute potential obstructions and require TVA approval.
(a) Fish attractors may be constructed of anchored brush piles, log cribs, and/or spawning benches, stake beds, vegetation, or rock piles, provided they meet “TVA Guidelines for Fish Attractor Placement in TVA Reservoirs” (TVA 1997).
(b) When established in connection with an approved dock, fish attractors shall not project more than 30 feet out from any portion of the dock.
(c) Any floatable materials must be permanently anchored.
§ 1304.412   Definitions.
Except as the context may otherwise require, the following words or terms, when used in this part 1304, have the meaning specified in this section.
100-year floodplain means that area inundated by the one percent annual chance (or 100-year) flood.
500-year floodplain means that area inundated by the 0.2 percent annual chance (or 500-year) flood; any land susceptible to inundation during the 500-year or greater flood.
Act means the Tennessee Valley Authority Act of 1933, as amended.
Applicant means the person, corporation, State, municipality, political subdivision or other entity making application to TVA.
Application means a written request for the approval of plans pursuant to the regulations contained in this part.
Attached structure means a floating deck, walkway, platform, slip, Jet Ski port, or other floating structure that supports the use of a floating cabin and can be detached from the floating cabin. Attached structures are not considered part of the monolithic frame of a floating cabin.
Backlot means a residential lot not located adjacent to the shoreland but located in a subdivision associated with the shoreland.
Board means the Board of Directors of TVA.
Chief Executive Officer means the Chief Executive Officer, TVA.
Combined floating cabin means a single floating cabin that replaces two or more existing floating cabins.
Committee means a committee of the TVA Board of Directors that has been designated by the TVA Board to hear appeals under this regulation.
Community outlot means a subdivision lot located adjacent to the shoreland and designated by deed, subdivision covenant, or recorded plat as available for use by designated property owners within the subdivision.
Dredging means the removal of material from a submerged location, primarily for deepening harbors and waterways.
Enclosed structure means a structure enclosed overhead and on all sides so as to keep out the weather. Floor space shall not be considered enclosed if three of the four walls are constructed of wire or screen mesh from floor to ceiling, and the wire or screen mesh leaves the interior of the structure open to the weather.
Existing floating cabin means a floating cabin that was located or moored on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016.
Floating cabin means a nonnavigable houseboat approved by TVA as of December 16, 2016, and other floating structures moored on the Tennessee River System and determined by TVA in its sole discretion to be designed and used primarily for human habitation or occupation and not designed and used primarily for navigation or transportation on the water.
Flood control storage means the volume within an elevation range on a TVA reservoir that is reserved for the storage of floodwater.
Flood control storage zone means the area within an elevation range on a TVA reservoir that is reserved for the storage of floodwater. TVA shall, upon request, identify the contour marking the upper limit of the flood control storage zone at particular reservoir locations.
Flood risk profile elevation means the elevation of the 500-year flood that has been adjusted for surcharge at the dam. Surcharge is the ability to raise the water level behind the dam above the top-of-gates elevation.
Flowage easement shoreland means privately-owned properties where TVA has the right to flood the land.
Footprint means the total water surface area of either a square or rectangular shape occupied by a floating cabin or adjoining property owner's dock, pier, boathouse, or boatwells.
Full summer pool means the targeted elevation to which TVA plans to fill each reservoir during its annual operating cycle. Applicants are encouraged to consult the appropriate TVA Watershed Team or the TVA website to obtain the full summer pool elevation for the reservoir in question at the time the application is submitted.
Land-based structure means any structure constructed on ground entirely above the full summer pool elevation of a TVA reservoir but below the maximum shoreline contours of that reservoir.
Maximum shoreline contour means an elevation typically five feet above the top of the gates of a TVA dam. It is sometimes the property boundary between TVA property and adjoining private property.
Monolithic frame means the supporting floor structure of a floating cabin that is constructed as one rigid component. It specifically excludes any attached structures, such as decks and platforms, regardless of when they were connected or how they are connected ( e.g., pins, hinges, bolts, ropes).
New floating cabin means a floating cabin that was not located or moored on the Tennessee River System as of December 16, 2016.
Owner or landowner ordinarily means all of the owners of a parcel of land. Except as otherwise specifically provided in this part, in all cases where TVA approval is required to engage in an activity and the applicant's eligibility to seek approval depends on status as an owner of real property, the owner or owners of only a fractional interest or of fractional interests totaling less than one in any such property shall not be considered, by virtue of such fractional interest or interests only, to be an owner and as such eligible to seek approval to conduct the activity without the consent of the other co-owners. In cases where the applicant owns water access rights across adjoining private property that borders TVA-owned shoreland, TVA may exercise its discretion to consider such person an owner, taking into account the availability of the shoreline to accommodate similarly situated owners and such other factors as TVA deems to be appropriate. In subdivisions where TVA had an established practice prior to September 8, 2003 of permitting individual or common water-use facilities on or at jointly-owned lots without the consent of all co-owners, TVA may exercise its discretion to continue such practice, taking into account the availability of the shoreline to accommodate similarly situated owners and other factors as TVA deems to be appropriate; provided, however, that the issuance of a TVA permit conveys no property interests, and the objections of a co-owner may be a basis for revocation of the permit.
Rebuilding means replacement of all or a significant portion of an approved obstruction to the same configuration, total footprint, and dimensions (length, width, and height of the obstruction or enclosed or open space) as the approved plans, standards, and conditions of the section 26a permit.
Shoreland means the surface of land lying between minimum winter pool elevation of a TVA reservoir and the maximum shoreline contour.
Shoreline means the line where the water of a TVA reservoir meets the shore when the water level is at the full summer pool elevation.
Shoreline Management Zone (SMZ) means a 50-foot-deep vegetated zone designated by TVA on TVA-owned land.
Structural modification means any alteration to the dimensions (length, width, and height of the obstruction or enclosed or open space), footprint, or approved plans of a structure.
Tennessee River System means TVA reservoirs, the Tennessee River or any of the Tennessee River's tributaries.
TVA means the Tennessee Valley Authority.
TVA Investigating Officer means a TVA employee or a person under contract to TVA appointed by the Vice President or the CEO to investigate any issue concerning an appeal of a decision on an application under this part.
TVA property means real property owned by the United States and under the custody and control of TVA.
Vice President means the Vice President, Natural Resources, TVA, or a position with functionally equivalent supervisory responsibilities.
Water-based structure means any structure, fixed or floating, constructed on or in navigable waters of the United States.
Winter drawdown elevation means the elevation to which a reservoir water level is lowered during fall to provide storage capacity for winter and spring floodwaters.
Winter pool means the lowest level expected for the reservoir during the flood season.