The City of Oak Ridge Zoning Ordinance 9.01 section G, Greenbelt Districts, shall be used to enhance the atmosphere, beauty, and well being of the community by preserving parcels so designated, as nearly as practicable, in their natural state. City council approval is required for municipal, state or federal uses, such as right-of-way easements for electric transmission lines, pipe lines, or roadways. There are, however, certain uses that are permitted within a Greenbelt District.
Permitted Principal Uses:
Greenbelt Districts shall be used to enhance the atmosphere, beauty, and well-being of the community by preserving parcels so designated, as nearly as practicable, in their natural state.
Permitted Accessory Uses:
- Hiking or walking to enjoy the natural beauty.
- Cleared and marked walking trails (to be approved by the Recreation Department).
- Operations that are accepted practice of forestry science as necessary to maintain safety and public value in its natural state.
- Signs marking trails, or regulatory signs.
- Noncommercial gardens of proximate lot owners, subject to annual approval of the City Manager. In no case shall trees be cut to provide additional garden area.
Uses Requiring Approval of City Council:
Municipal, state, or federal uses, such as right-of-way easement for electric transmission lines, pipelines, or roadways. A public hearing shall be required prior to City Council approval of each municipal, state, or federal use in the Greenbelt District. Prior to each approval (and following the public hearing), the City Council shall find that each use will promote the general well-being of the community and will have no material adverse effect upon the district in which it is located.
Prohibited uses in Greenbelt Districts:
- Operation of a motorized vehicle.
- Dumping of domestic household garbage, yard rubbish, or other materials.
- Cutting of trees or shrubs by landowners or contractors.
- Unauthorized gardening.
- Camping or camp fires.
- Hunting.
- Removal of trees, flowers, or other material from area.