Alabama Administrative Code Title 160 - ALABAMA BEAR CREEK DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
Alabama Administrative Code, Title 160, is dedicated to the Alabama Bear Creek Development Authority (BCDA). The BCDA is a public corporation and political subdivision of the State of Alabama, established with a broad mission for the unified development of the Bear Creek watershed.
The primary purposes of the Bear Creek Development Authority, as reflected in its enabling legislation (Alabama Code Title 33, Chapter 15) and administrative rules, include:
Water Control and Management: Flood control, water conservation and supply, and irrigation. The BCDA operates four Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) reservoirs in Northwest Alabama: Cedar Creek, Little Bear, Upper Bear, and Big Bear.
Recreation: Providing and managing public recreational opportunities. The Bear Creek Lakes area offers fishing, boating, swimming, camping, hiking, and canoeing.
Industrial Development: Encouraging and assisting economic growth in the region, including acquiring and developing land for industrial uses.
Navigation: Contributing to navigation purposes within the watershed.
Key Chapters and Areas of Regulation within Alabama Administrative Code Title 160:
The administrative rules in Title 160 specifically address the BCDA's authority to manage the lands and waters under its control, particularly concerning the use and development of shoreline properties and recreational areas.
Chapter 160-X-1 - PROPERTY AND PROPERTY RIGHTS AVAILABLE FOR SHORELINE USE AND DEVELOPMENT:
This chapter outlines the BCDA's policies regarding how property and property rights around the reservoirs are made available for use and development.
It covers land use agreements, including leases (commercial and industrial) and the sale of land.
It also details requirements for building codes (e.g., adherence to Southern Building Code, local codes) and sanitation standards (e.g., wastewater disposal).
Chapter 160-X-2 - ZONING:
Likely contains regulations related to the zoning of lands within the Bear Creek watershed area managed by the BCDA, dictating permissible uses and development types in different zones.
Chapter 160-X-3 - STRUCTURES:
Specific rules governing the construction, modification, and maintenance of structures on or near BCDA-controlled lands and waters.
Chapter 160-X-4 - SIGNS:
Regulations concerning signage within the BCDA's jurisdiction, including types, placement, and size.
Chapter 160-X-5 - ENCROACHMENTS:
Addresses unauthorized use or structures on BCDA property and the procedures for addressing such issues. It also includes provisions for informing the public about land availability.
Chapter 160-X-6 - APPROVABLE WATER USE FACILITIES AND RELATED IMPROVEMENTS:
Details the types of water-related facilities (e.g., docks, piers, boat ramps) that can be built and the approval process for such improvements.
Chapter 160-X-7 - AGRICULTURAL LAND USE LICENSES:
Rules for obtaining licenses to use BCDA land for agricultural purposes.
Chapter 160-X-8 - RULES AND REGULATIONS AT BCDA RECREATION AREAS:
This is a crucial chapter for visitors and users of the BCDA's recreational facilities (campgrounds, beaches, boat ramps). It covers:
Camping rules (first-come, first-served, designated sites, check-out times, unattended equipment).
Permit requirements (persons between 16-65 often need a BCDA permit for recreation areas, fishing, etc.).
Occupancy limits for campsites.
Quiet hours.
Prohibitions on firearms, fireworks, and alcoholic beverages.
Pet rules (leash requirements, restrictions from beaches/buildings).
Vehicle operation (staying on roadways).
Cleanliness and waste disposal.
Hunting rules (requires BCDA permit, adherence to state and federal guidelines).
Chapter 160-X-9 - RATE SCHEDULE:
Contains information on fees for permits, leases, licenses, and other services provided by the BCDA.
In essence, Alabama Administrative Code Title 160 provides the operational framework for the Bear Creek Development Authority to manage its extensive land and water resources, facilitate economic development, and ensure safe and regulated recreational opportunities for the public within the Bear Creek watershed. For the most current and detailed regulations, it's recommended to consult the official Alabama Administrative Code on the Alabama
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