15.8.9 Criminal Penalties
Pursuant to NCGS 143-215.6B, any person who violates any riparian buffer requirement of this Ordinance shall be guilty of a crime as follows:
A. Negligent violation
Class 2 misdemeanor with a maximum fine of fifteen thousand dollars ($15,000) per day of violation, and a maximum cumulative total of two hundred thousand dollars ($200,000) for each 30-day period of a continuing violation;
B. Knowing or willful violation
Class I felony with a maximum fine of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) per day of violation, and a maximum cumulative total of five hundred thousand dollars ($500,000) for each 30-day period of a continuing violation; or
C. Knowing violation
Class C felony with a maximum fine of two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000) per day of violation, and a maximum cumulative total of one million dollars ($1,000,0000) for each 30-day period of a continuing violation.
Commentary: The terms “knowing or willful” as in paragraph B and “knowing” as in paragraph C are explained in NCGS 143-215.6B.