As used in this Part, the following definitions apply:
(1) AEC or Area of Environmental Concern. - An area designated by the Coastal Resources Commission pursuant to G.S. 113A-113.
(2) Boat slip. - Any structure adjoining, attached to, or part of a pier which has the capacity to store one boat.
(3) Upland basin marina. - A marina constructed by excavating or dredging lands of elevations above the current mean or ordinary high-water mark and designed to accommodate more than 10 vessels or boat slips. Upland basin marinas shall be considered a water-dependent use for purposes of general use standards adopted by the Coastal Resources Commission.