The City of Fairview is committed to the protection of the sensitive riparian areas within the City's boundaries. In order to make the goal achievable the City has adopted regulations requiring property owners who wish to plant vegetation, construct buildings or docks or otherwise modify the natural condition within close proximity to streams and lakes to obtain a Riparian Permit before proceeding. The City of Fairview takes seriously its responsibility to protect the natural character of the wetlands and waters that lie within its jurisdiction. These guidelines are intended to assist the City, property owners and others to know what are permissible and non-permissible activities in these environmentally sensitive areas.
Healthy streams have flood plains and often have adjacent wetlands.
These slow down the rate at which stormwater enters streams during the winter, thereby reducing flooding and erosion. Wetlands also function to slowly release water during summer months thereby ensuring a higher base flow. Fish need silt-free streambeds with rock and gravel bottoms to lay eggs. These same conditions provide habitat to aquatic insects and invertebrates, which in turn feed fish. No artificial modification of stream channels, including filling, dumping, draining or armoring banks with riprap, rocks, tires etc.