Definitions

Definitions. As used in this article: (a) “Authorized Area” means an area outside the coastal zone that has been designated by the Secretary of the Department of Public Works in concurrence with the Coastal Resources Management Office and the Division of Public Lands as a sand mining area. (b) “Coastal Resources Management Office” shall have the meaning as contained in 2 CMC § 1512. (c) “Coastal Zone” means an area within 150 feet of the high watermark of a sandy beach. (d) “Person” means an individual, firm, association, corporation, organization, partnership, or the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands Government, municipal council, or any agency or department thereof. (e) “Prohibited Area” means an area within the coastal zone. (f) “Secretary of Public Works” shall have the meaning as contained 1 CMC § 2402. (g) “Sand Mining” means the excavation or removal of sand. Source: PL 11-62, § 3. Commission Comment: PL 11-62 that created this article took effect on February 18, 1999. PL 11-62 contained short title, findings, and severability clauses as follows: Section 1. Short Title. This Act may be cited as the “Beach Preservation Act of 1998.” Section 2. Findings. The Legislature finds and declares: (a) That the beaches in the coastal areas of the Northern Mariana Islands are distinct, aesthetic, and valuable economic resources to the people. (b) That the preservation of the coastal areas is vital for the enjoyment of the present and future residents of the Commonwealth, including tourist who visit the Northern Marianas. (c) That to promote the public interest and to protect the natural environment, it is necessary to protect the coastal zone and prevent its deterioration and destruction by sand mining. ... Section 9. Severability. If any provision or clause of this Act or the application thereof to any person or circumstance in held invalid, such invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this Act which can be given effect without the invalid provision or application and to this end the provisions of this Act are declared to be severable.