About the Update

The City of Newcastle is updating its Critical Areas Ordinance (CAO) to follow the latest rules for protecting sensitive areas, including wetlands, streams, steep slopes, and coal mine hazard zones. Staff are working closely with the Planning Commission, which gathers input from the community, holds one or more Public Hearings, and makes a recommendation to City Council.

Community Outreach

The City sent about 500 letters to property owners because some land on or near their parcels appears in the City’s database of environmentally sensitive areas. This data is a starting point, but actual boundaries can vary, especially for smaller or temporary streams and wetlands. Final, legally binding boundaries are determined by biologists on a case-by-case basis.

Receiving a letter does not mean the updated Critical Areas Ordinance will definitely affect a property, but it indicates there is a possibility. The City seeks input from residents early in the process so feedback can be considered as the ordinance is updated.

Meetings Schedule

The Planning Commission usually meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. For the current schedule, visit the City’s calendar, and meeting materials can be found in the Document Center.