Riparian Buffer Information

Neuse River Riparian Buffer Program

Streams located in Johnston County are subject to the Neuse River Basin Riparian Buffer rules.

The County has been delegated the authority to implement the buffer rule in the unincorporated areas of the County, outside of towns and their extraterritorial jurisdictions (ETJs). Both buffer determinations and buffer impact authorizations must be submitted to and approved by the County.

Buffer Information

• NCDEQ Riparian Buffer Rules Informational Pamphlet (PDF)
• Streams and Riparian Buffers FAQ
• Johnston County Riparian Buffer Homeowner Guide
• Buffer Determination - the process by which county staff determines if a body of water is subject to the Neuse River Basin Riparian Buffer Rules. To request a buffer determination, complete this form and return to Charles Pender at either:
  • charles.pender@johnstonnc.gov or
  • Johnston County Public Utilities / PO Box 2263 / Smithfield, NC 27577
• Buffer Impact Authorization - is needed before certain impactful actions can be carried out within a buffer.  To determine if you need an authorization, or to apply for an authorization, contact Jessica Batten at jessica.batten@johnstonnc.gov or 919-209-8333.

Additional Resources

• Clean Water Act 401/404 Permitting
• JC Buffer Ordinance