NC H116

Allows single-family residences to encroach on riparian buffers in the Neuse River Basin and Tar-Pamlico River Basin if located on existing lots of 2 acres or less that were platted and recorded before August 1, 2000.

Requires residences to be set back a minimum of 30 feet from the normal high-water level or normal water level and positioned at the maximum feasible distance to minimize buffer encroachment.

Prohibits septic tanks or drainfields from encroaching into the riparian buffer, and requires stormwater from new impervious surfaces to be treated with diffuse flow maintained through the buffer.

Directs the Environmental Management Commission to adopt permanent replacement rules that are substantively identical to the provisions in this act, exempt from standard regulatory review procedures.

Becomes effective upon enactment.