City of Columbus

Stream Corridor Protection Zones

A Stream Corridor Protection Zone (SCPZ) consists of the stream and the riparian area along streams. SCPZs are protected through either deed and plat restrictions, easements, or by City ownership. Its purpose is to allow the natural, lateral movement of open water courses, provide sufficient area for flood conveyance, protect water quality and prevent structures from being impacted by natural streambank erosion. 

Language preventing property owners from constructing facilities and performing activities that are prohibited within the SCPZ, as described in the table below, may be shown on development plats or reflected on deeds for properties adjacent to the SCPZ. Lands designated as a SCPZ may also be owned the City of Columbus or placed in preservation easements.

Stream Corridor Protection Zones are required along streams by the City’s Stormwater Drainage Manual and are established when property is newly developed or redeveloped. The protected areas must be marked in the field using signs, markers, or fencing so that the boundary is apparent and the usage restrictions are clearly communicated. Standard details have been developed for this purpose:

AA-S176 No Now Marker with Flexible Post
AA-S177 No Mow Wood Bollard
AA-S178 Stream Buffer Sign with No. 2 Post
AA-S179 Stream Buffer Sign with Wood Post
AA-S180 Fence with Sign

The Stormwater Drainage Manual is adopted as a rule of the Director of Public Utilities pursuant to the authority provided in Columbus City Code 1145.11, 1145.81, and 1149.04. See the City’s Stormwater Drainage Manual at: https://www.columbus.gov/utilities/contractors/Stormwater-Drainage-Manual/ for more information.