Draft EUG Master Plan Update, February 2010

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6 6 Ý¸¿°¬»® Land Use Compatibility This chapter provides details and analysis of government regulations and guidelines pertaining to airport design and operation. The effects of federal, state, and local regulations on Eugene Airport are presented. Items explored in greater detail are Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design standards, Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) and Administrative Rules (OAR), the Lane County Code, and the Eugene-Springfield Metropolitan Area General Plan (Metro Plan). In addition to land use, the effects of airport noise are discussed. Land use compatibility planning in the vicinity of an airport provides safety for aircraft, and for people and property on the ground. In recent years, incompatible land uses and their impacts on airport operations and development have escalated nationwide. As incompatible land uses near airports threaten the nation’s aviation system, implementation of land use controls have become an industry priority. It is essential to maintain an obstruction-free airport and associated airspace. Planning to guard against incompatible land uses should be conducted for airport property, runway protection zones, approach areas, and the general vicinity of the airport. While some of these areas are owned by airports, land beyond airport boundaries is privately owned and needs to be managed by the airport’s local jurisdictions to ensure safe airport operations. The primary tools available to local governments to prevent incompatible development are comprehensive plans, airport land use plans, development regulations, and airport overlay zoning ordinances. 1. Local, State, and Federal Land Use Regulations and Guidance Airspace protection is vital to the safety and success of any airport. Although airports are accepted as essential public facilities, their relationship with surrounding land uses can often lead to conflict. In the interest of safety for aviation and citizens living and working in the area, there are regulations that define the types of land uses permitted around airports. These restrictions include height limits and land use prohibitions within a defined vicinity of an airport. The Airport is owned by the City of Eugene but several other governments and agencies influence decision making. The Metro Plan, administered by the Lane Council of Governments, is an overarching planning document. The State of Oregon’s Revised Statues and Administrative Rules also impact the Airport, as does guidance from the FAA. The intention of these guidelines and regulations is to enable 6-1 Eugene Airport Master Plan Update (February 2010)