Aberdeen City Zoning Code
ARTICLE IV
Provisions Applicable to All Districts
§ 235-20 General lot requirements.
[Amended 6-7-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-09; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Every building constructed, reconstructed, converted, moved or structurally altered shall be located on a lot of record, and in no case shall there be more than one principal building on one lot except as provided below.
(1)
Apartment buildings.
(2)
Commercial or industrial buildings.
(3)
Condominiums.
(4)
Office/research/educational or industrial.
(5)
Public, semipublic or institutional buildings.
(6)
Shopping or retail centers.
(7)
Retirement community.
(8)
Stacked townhouses.
(9)
Any other government-owned buildings.
B.
Construction of any building or portion thereof outside of the buildable area of the lot shall not be permitted.
C.
Access to public street.
(1)
Every lot shall front on a public street and shall have the minimum width at the building setback line required for the zoning district.
(2)
Panhandle lots shall be permitted in all zoning districts to achieve better use of irregularly shaped parcels, to avoid development in areas with environmentally sensitive features or to minimize access points to roads and streets, subject to the following requirements:
(a)
The panhandle shall abut a public road or street.
(b)
The minimum width of a single panhandle shall be 25 feet. The minimum lot area, lot width, and yard requirements for the zoning district are applicable to all panhandle lots. The dwelling shall be located on the panhandle lot so that the side yard abuts the adjoining rear yard of the dwelling that fronts on the public street. (See illustration below.)
 |
(c)
Multiple adjacent panhandles (up to a maximum of four allowed) shall have a minimum width of 12 1/2 feet each.
(d)
A common drive shall be constructed to serve any group of two or more panhandle lots. Driveways for all panhandle lots shall access from the common drive.
(e)
In all cases public water and sewer service shall end at the edge of the public right-of-way and will be extended to the public right-of-way at the cost of the property owner. No split water and sewer services will be allowed.
(f)
All refuse receptacles will be taken to the public street for disposal.
(g)
Where a common drive is required, the owner shall provide the City with a common driveway agreement, satisfactory to the City Attorney, which shall be applicable to all lots subject to the common drive plan. The agreement shall be approved by the City Attorney prior to the recordation of the final subdivision plat.
(3)
With the exception of Subsection C(2), all new dwellings will be constructed on an improved public street and have access to a sidewalk on either or both sides of the improved street in front of the dwelling.
D.
Sight triangle.
(1)
Except in instances where traffic visibility is not impacted due to one-way traffic patterns, no sign, fence, wall, hedge, planting, structure, or other temporary or permanent obstruction to vision, extending to a height in excess of three feet above the established street grade, shall be erected, planted, placed or maintained within the sight triangle of an intersection.
(2)
Where an intersection is formed with a state or county road, any improvement to include sign, fence, wall, hedge, planting, structure, or other temporary or permanent obstructions will be erected outside of the designated right-of-way.
(3)
Poles, posts and guywires for streetlights and other utility services shall not be considered obstructions to vision within the meaning of this subsection.
§ 235-21 Lot area, width and yard requirements.
[Amended 6-7-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-09; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
Table I specifies the minimum lot area, width and yard requirements to be provided in the various residential zoning districts for the principal uses enumerated. Table II specifies the minimum lot area, width and yard requirements to be provided in the various commercial and industrial zoning districts for the principal uses enumerated. Table III specifies the minimum lot area, width and yard requirements for various institutional uses enumerated.
A.
Division of building, parcel or lot. Division of existing buildings, parcels or lots shall not be permitted if the proposed division would create buildings or lots which do not comply with the requirements of this section.
B.
Lack of public facilities. In any district where either a public water supply or public sanitary sewer is not accessible and where an acceptable community water supply and sewerage system is not provided, the required lot areas shall be determined in accordance with applicable State Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and Maryland Department of the Environment regulations, unless such regulations require a lot size less than the minimum otherwise specified for in the zoning district.
Table I: Minimum Lot Area, Lot Width and Yard Requirements for Residential Districts | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uses | Lot Area (square feet) | Lot Width at Building Line (feet) | Lot Area Per Family | Front Yard Depth (feet) | Rear Yard Depth (feet) | Side Yards | |
Least Width (feet) | Sum of Widths (feet) | ||||||
Accessory dwelling unit, R-1 | 10 | 15 | 30 | ||||
Accessory dwelling unit, R-2 | 10 | 10 | 20 | ||||
Accessory dwelling unit, R-3 | 10 | 7 | 14 | ||||
Age-restricted housing | 5,000 | 50 | 5,000 | 25 | 35 | 7 | 14 |
Dwelling, accessory apartment | 500 | 20 | 10 | 20 | |||
Dwelling, attached, R-2 | 7,000 | 70 | 3,500 | 25 | 35 | 10 | 20 |
Dwelling, attached, R-3 | 6,000 | 60 | 3,000 | 25 | 35 | 7 | 14 |
Dwelling, cottage cluster | 1,800 | 18 | 900 | 20 | 20 | 5 | 10 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family, R-1 | 15,000 | 100 | 15,000 | 40 | 50 | 15 | 30 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family R-2 | 7,200 | 60 | 7,200 | 30 | 40 | 10 | 20 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family R-3 | 5,000 | 50 | 5,000 | 25 | 35 | 7 | 14 |
Dwelling, duplex R-2 | 9,000 | 80 | 4,500 | 30 | 40 | 14 | 28 |
Dwelling, duplex R-3 | 7,000 | 70 | 3,500 | 25 | 35 | 12 | 24 |
Dwelling, garden apartment | 9,600 | 120 | 2,400 | 30 | 40* | 20* | 40* |
Dwelling, high-rise apartment | 12,800 | 100 | 1,200 | 35 | 35* | 25* | 50* |
Dwelling, mid-rise apartment | 12,800 | 120 | 1,600 | 30 | 30* | 20* | 40* |
Dwelling, neighborhood apartment | 7,500 | 75 | 2,500 | 25 | 35* | 20* | 40* |
Dwelling, stacked townhouse | 2,100 | 24 | 2,100 | 25 | 35 | 0 | 0 |
Dwelling, townhouses, per unit R-3, for interior units | 2,000 | 20 | 2,000 | 25 | 35 | 0 | 0 |
Dwelling, townhouses, per unit R-3, for end units | 2,000 | 24 | 2,000 | 25 | 35 | 15 | 30 |
Dwelling, triplex | 2,000 | 24 | 0 | 25 | 35 | 15 | 30 |
Dwelling, quadplex | 2,400 | 50 | 0 | 25 | 35 | 12 | 24 |
Dwelling, zero lot line R-2 | 5,500 | 55 | 5,500 | 30 | 40 | 0 | 25 |
NOTES: |
*See § 235-30, Landscaping, outdoor lighting and buffer yards. |
Table II: Minimum Lot Area, Lot Width and Yard Requirements for Commercial, Industrial and Integrated Business Zoning Districts | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uses | Lot Area (acres) | Lot Width (feet) | Front Yard Depth (feet) | Rear Yard Depth (feet) | Side Yards | |
Least Width (feet) | Sum of Widths (feet) | |||||
B-1 | N/A | 50 | 25 | 25* | * | * |
B-2 | N/A | 50 | 5 | 10* | * | * |
B-3 | N/A | 50 | 5 | 25* | * | * |
M-1 | 1 | 200 | 50 | 50* | 25* | 50* |
IBD | N/A | N/A | 25 | 25* | 10* | 20* |
NOTES: | |
* | See § 235-30, Landscaping, outdoor lighting and buffer yards. |
Table III: Minimum Lot Area, Lot Width and Yard Requirements for Specific Institutional Uses | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Uses | Lot Area(acres) | Lot Width (feet) | Front Yard Depth (feet) | Rear Yard Depth (feet) | Side Yards | |
Least Width (feet) | Sum of Widths (feet) | |||||
Churches R-1 | 3 | 200 | 40 | 50* | 25* | 50* |
Churches R-2 | 3 | 200 | 30 | 40* | 25* | 50* |
Churches R-3 | 3 | 200 | 25 | 40* | 25* | 50* |
Schools | 3 | 200 | 40 | 50* | 25* | 50* |
NOTES: | |
|---|---|
* | See § 235-30, Landscaping, outdoor lighting and buffer yards. |
C.
Transit Oriented Development District. Refer to § 235-18, Zoning districts and boundaries, Subsection L, Transit Oriented Development District.
§ 235-22 Minimum floor area.
[Amended 6-7-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-09; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Every dwelling unit shall have a floor area not less than the area specified in Table IV for the dwelling type and zoning district in which it is located.
B.
Floor areas shall be measured from outside walls enclosing usable finished floor space and shall not include unfinished basements, cellars, garages, unfinished attic space, attached storage buildings, open porches or steps.
Table IV: Minimum Floor Area Requirements for Dwelling Units | |
|---|---|
Dwelling Type | Area Required Per Unit (square feet) |
Accessory dwelling unit | 500 |
Apartment accessory to commercial use | 500 |
Dwelling, accessory apartment | 500 |
Dwelling, attached | 700 |
Dwelling, cottage cluster | 500 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family R-1 | 1,200 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family R-2 | 900 |
Dwelling, detached, single-family R-3 | 720 |
Dwelling, duplex R-2 | 900 |
Dwelling, duplex R-3 | 720 |
Dwelling, garden apartment | 600 |
Dwelling, high-rise apartment | 500 |
Dwelling, mid-rise apartment | 500 |
Dwelling, neighborhood apartment | 600 |
Dwelling, stacked townhouse | 900 |
Dwelling, townhouse | 900 |
Dwelling, triplex | 700 |
Dwelling, quadplex | 500 |
C.
Transit Oriented Development District. This section is not applicable within the Transit Oriented Development Districts.
D.
Dwellings located in other than residential zoning districts shall comply with the minimum floor area requirements for the dwelling type.
E.
Any permitted accessory apartment shall not exceed 50% of the above grade living area of the principal use or structure as shown in the records of the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
§ 235-23 General yard requirements.
[Amended 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Front yard depth. The minimum front yard depth shall be measured in the following manner:
(1)
From the proposed or established public road right-of-way line.
(2)
In the case of panhandle lots, the front yard setback shall be measured along the property line that most closely parallels the street to which the panhandle connects.
(3)
Where a structure is not parallel to the road, the minimum yard requirement may be met by averaging the yard width from one end of the structure to the other end, provided that the yard at the narrowest point is not less than 80% of the minimum yard requirement for the zoning district.
B.
Corner lots. All yards of a lot that abut a street must comply with the applicable front yard setback.
 CORNER LOT |
C.
Through lots. The same front yard depth shall be required of both front and rear lot lines.
 THROUGH LOT |
D.
Side and rear yard depth. The minimum side and rear yard depth shall be measured in the following manner:
(1)
At the closest points to the proposed improvement or existing structure.
(2)
For any project without individual lots, the side and rear yard shall be measured along the boundaries of the parcel.
(3)
When measured from an alley, 1/2 of the alley width may be included as a portion of the rear or side yard.
E.
Irregular lots.
(1)
The rear yard shall be measured from the portion of the structure closest to the lot line.
(2)
The front yard may be measured from the portion of the structure closest to the lot line or in accordance with § 235-23A(3).
(3)
The side yard may be measured from the portion of the structure closest to the lot line or may be averaged. Side yard averaging may be utilized where the sidewall of a structure is not parallel with the side lot line. In such case, the average width of the side yard shall not be less than the otherwise required minimum width, provided that such yard shall not be narrower at any point than 1/2 the otherwise required minimum width or narrower than three feet in all cases. Any minor offset, broken or irregular part of a structure which is not in the same vertical plane as the portion of the sidewall of the structure nearest to the side lot line shall not be included in the computation of the average side yard width.
(4)
The Zoning Administrator will make a determination based on the information presented for a building permit application if there are any questions regarding irregular lot measurements.
F.
Additions to the principal dwelling must comply with the setback requirements for the zoning district.
G.
Exceptions and modifications to minimum yard requirements. Recorded easements may restrict the location of these improvements. The following structures may encroach into the minimum required yard setback not to exceed the following dimensions:
(1)
Awnings, canopies, cornices, eaves or other architectural features: three feet.
(2)
Bay windows, balconies, chimneys: five feet.
(3)
Stairs or porches covered or uncovered and necessary landings: 10 feet.
(4)
Patios and decks both enclosed and unenclosed may be constructed within 10 feet of the rear yard lot line. The side yard setback requirements are determined by the zoning district. A gazebo or pergola may be added to a deck or patio but must meet all building code requirements.
(5)
Corner lots may have additional restrictions due to sight distances from the intersecting streets and will require an on-site inspection from the Department of Planning and Community Development before approval.
(6)
Handicap ramps will be permitted but exempt from setback requirements.
(7)
Outdoor dining areas shall be permitted to encroach up to, but not to exceed, 50% of the side, rear or front yard setback requirement for the B-1, B-2, B-3, M-1, and IBD districts.
(8)
Electric vehicle charging stations shall be permitted to encroach up to, but not to exceed, 50% of the front, side or rear yard setback for the district.
H.
Fences may be located in required yards in accordance with the following:
(1)
Residential zoning districts.
(a)
Front yards. Fences shall not exceed four feet in height above ground elevation. No walls or chain-link fences are permitted in the front yard.
(b)
Rear and side yards. Fences shall not exceed six feet in height above ground elevation and may be located in any rear or side yard.
(c)
Due to sight distances from the intersecting streets, corner lots will require an on-site inspection from the Department of Planning and Community Development before approval.
(d)
All fences will be constructed with the finished side facing the neighboring parcel or the street.
(e)
The use of barbed wire shall not be permitted in any residential district.
(f)
Stormwater management facilities are required to be fenced and gated in accordance with stormwater management regulations. In residential districts, the fencing shall be approved by the Aberdeen Department of Public Works and will complement the architectural features of the neighborhood.
(g)
All fences shall be maintained in good repair.
(h)
No temporary or permanent fence materials will be permitted to extend above the height of the fence.
(i)
The property owner and/or fence installer shall be responsible for correctly locating property boundaries, easements, and established rights-of-way.
(j)
Fences are permitted in forest conservation easement areas as long as the area is not disturbed and the fence material is wood.
(2)
Commercial or industrial zoning districts.
(a)
Chain-link security fences not exceeding a total of eight feet in height above the elevation of the surface may be located around commercial or industrial structures located in any commercial or industrial district or around any public utility substation.
(b)
A barbed-wire guard not exceeding two feet in vertical height may be added to such a fence, provided that no barbed wire may be placed less than eight feet from the ground.
(c)
The property owner and/or fence installer shall be responsible for correctly locating property boundaries.
(3)
In the Integrated Business District (IBD) and Transit Oriented Development Districts (TOD):
(a)
No front yard fences shall be permitted.
(b)
No fences higher than six feet are allowed in the side and rear yards beginning at the rear corner of the principal structure.
(c)
All fences shall be maintained in good repair.
(d)
Any fence located around a stormwater management facility, recreational fields, City-owned structures, public utilities, or dumpster enclosure are exempt from these requirements.
(e)
The property owner and/or fence installer shall be responsible for correctly locating property boundaries.
I.
Retaining walls.
(1)
A building permit shall be required for any retaining walls over four feet in height measured from the bottom of the footing to the top of the wall. Plans shall be prepared by a professional engineer registered in the State of Maryland. Inspections will be required in conjunction with the approved building permit and plans.
(2)
Retaining walls that meet the following requirements shall be exempt from these standards:
(a)
Retaining walls less than four feet in height.
(b)
Retaining walls designed as part of a public capital improvement project.
(3)
Standards and requirements.
(a)
All retaining walls shall be located on private property and shall be built with the consent of the property owner, including homeowner associations, where applicable. The property owner and/or retaining wall installer shall be responsible for correctly locating property boundaries.
(b)
Retaining walls located near intersecting streets shall not be located in the sight distance triangle as referenced in § 235-23J, in order to provide a reasonable degree of traffic visibility.
J.
Sight distance triangle to provide visibility at intersections.
(1)
No sign, fence, wall, hedge, planting or other visual obstruction erected, planted, or maintained in a corner lot shall extend more than three feet above grade.
(2)
The sight triangle is measured 25 feet back from the intersecting streets.
§ 235-24 General height requirements.
[Amended 8-27-2018 by Ord. No. 18-O-26; 6-7-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-09; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Residential zoning districts.
(1)
Requirements in the R-1 Zoning District:
(a)
No principal structure shall exceed 40 feet in height.
(b)
No accessory structure shall exceed 20 feet in height.
(2)
Requirements in the R-2 Zoning District:
(a)
No principal structure shall exceed 40 feet in height.
(b)
No accessory structure shall exceed 20 feet in height.
(3)
Requirements in the R-3 Zoning District:
(a)
No principal structure shall exceed 50 feet in height, except that garden apartments, mid-rise apartments, high-rise apartments and stacked townhouses may have a maximum height of 90 feet.
(b)
No accessory structure shall exceed 20 feet in height.
B.
Commercial and industrial zoning districts.
(1)
Except as provided in Subsection C(1), buildings and structures shall not exceed 60 feet in height in any B Districts.
(2)
Except as provided in Subsection C, buildings and structures shall not exceed 60 feet in height in an industrial district.
(3)
The following residential uses permitted in the B-1, B-2, and B-3 Districts may have a maximum height of 90 feet: garden apartments, mid-rise apartments, and high-rise apartments.
(4)
Neighborhood apartments permitted in the B-1, B-2, and B-3 Districts shall not exceed 40 feet in height.
C.
Exceptions and modifications to maximum height requirements.
(1)
General exceptions. The building height limitations shall not apply to the following:
(a)
Fire or parapet walls, cell towers, steeples, flagpoles, public utility structures, and radio and television antennas.
(b)
Bulkheads, roof structures, water tanks, ventilating fans or similar mechanical equipment required to operate and maintain the building.
(c)
Hospitals.
(d)
City-owned buildings and structures, schools, activity or community centers, colleges, or stadiums.
(2)
General modifications in industrial districts. Grain elevators, gas holders, and other similar structures may have a maximum height of 125 feet. Whenever any building or structure adjoins or abuts a residential district, such building or structure shall not exceed 60 feet in height unless set back one foot from all required lot lines for each foot of additional height above 60 feet.
D.
Integrated Business District and Transit Oriented Development Districts. The height requirements for these districts are provided in § 235-18.J, Integrated Business District, and § 235-18L, Transit Oriented Development Districts.
§ 235-25 Off-street parking and loading requirements.
[Amended 12-14-2020 by Ord. No. 20-O-18; 6-7-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-09; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Purpose. The purpose of this section is to ensure the provision of adequate, safe, and convenient parking facilities while reducing visual impacts of parking, service and loading facilities.
(1)
To regulate the number of required off-street parking spaces for the needs and safety of occupants, customers, visitors or others involved in use or occupancy of any building, structural improvement or place of assembly.
(2)
To minimize environmental impacts and promote sustainable practices by eliminating the unnecessary use of land for parking purposes.
(3)
To promote mixed-use, walkability and reduce vehicle dependency for all redevelopment and new development projects located in the TOD and IBD Districts.
B.
Parking and loading requirements.
(1)
A sufficient number of parking spaces to accommodate the number of vehicles that would utilize a specific use shall be provided in all zoning districts. Parking requirements are specified for particular uses in Subsection C of this section.
(2)
The number of parking spaces required shall be based on the net or gross floor area as defined in § 235-7 depending on the use.
(3)
Parking of vehicles in areas other than a driveway, garage, parking pad, parking lot or other City-owned public parking area shall be prohibited. On-street parking will be permitted on all public streets unless it is restricted with official signage.
(4)
Each required off-street parking space shall measure a minimum of nine feet in width by 18 feet in length. Parking spaces for the physically handicapped shall meet the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Parallel spaces shall measure a minimum of eight feet in width by 22 feet in length.
(5)
In the B-1, B-2, and B-3 Districts, all commercial vehicles owned or possessed by an owner of property or the owner's tenants, including vehicles used in connection with a business on the property, must be parked in the rear of the property.
(6)
All parking areas, loading areas and driveways shall be constructed of concrete or bituminous materials unless the pervious surface is approved by the Director of Public Works and Planning Commission.
(7)
All parking areas and lots shall be brought to minimum standards prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for any business use. Minimum standards include but are not limited to landscaping, surface repairs, markings, curbing, bumper strips, safe pedestrian access, lighting, and signage as required by the Director of Planning and Community Development.
(8)
Parking lot landscaping requirement: 10% of the required parking area shall be landscaped. The parking area shall be set back a minimum of five feet from collector road rights-of-way and 10 feet from arterial road rights-of-way. A landscape plan will be required and prepared by a licensed landscape architect and submitted to the Department of Planning and Community Development for review and approval.
(9)
Common residential parking areas shall include access into adjoining properties.
(10)
Two access points are required for more than 40 residential dwelling units and hotels with more than 60 rooms. Unless there is complete vehicle access around the hotel so that emergency crews and equipment can access around the hotel from two directions. That is subject to review by the fire department to verify adequate clearance, turning radius or other concerns.
(11)
The parking lot lighting shall be directed downward and not onto adjacent properties.
(12)
Drive aisle widths shall be a minimum of 24 feet in width.
(13)
Shared parking provisions. A portion of the required parking may be provided on another property, provided that:
(a)
The underlying zoning of the other property permits parking for the principal use of the site being developed.
(b)
There is adequate parking to meet the parking requirements for all uses served by the parking.
(c)
The shared parking area is located less than 500 feet from the entrance of the primary building located on the site being developed.
(d)
The shared parking area is subject to a shared parking agreement made between current owners of the properties. The agreement shall be recorded in the land records of Harford County. The agreement shall be reviewed and approved by the City Attorney before it is recorded. All shared parking agreements must also contain a provision for maintenance of the parking area.
(e)
The parking area must have safe vehicular and pedestrian access from the shared parking area to the subject property.
(f)
The required parking area shall be paved with an impervious surface.
(g)
Parking for residential uses shall be clearly designated.
(14)
General requirements for parking lot/driveway design, construction, and maintenance are as follows:
(a)
Parking areas shall be designed so that vehicles may exit such areas without backing onto a public street. This requirement does not apply to parking areas consisting of driveways that serve one or two dwelling units, although backing onto arterial streets is discouraged.
(b)
Parking areas shall be designed so that sanitation, emergency, and other public service vehicles can serve such developments without the necessity of backing unreasonable distances or making other dangerous or hazardous turning movements.
(c)
Parking areas shall be designed so that vehicles cannot extend beyond the perimeter of any such area onto adjacent properties or public rights-of-way. Such areas shall also be designed so that vehicles do not extend over sidewalks or tend to bump against or damage any wall, vegetation, or other obstruction. Bumper blocks or other means may be required to ensure this provision.
(d)
Access to parking areas shall be designed so as not to obstruct free flow of traffic. There shall be adequate provision for ingress to and egress from all parking spaces to ensure ease of mobility, ample clearance, and safety of vehicles and pedestrians.
(e)
Any required parking area shall be continually maintained in good, serviceable condition with striping clearly visible so as to be safe, attractive, and free of any hazard, nuisance or other unsafe condition. Commercial parking areas shall be maintained to ensure customer safety. All potholes or similar hazards shall be repaired promptly upon written notification by the City. In no case shall such conditions exist for more than 60 days.
C.
Parking space requirements. Unless otherwise provided, the following off-street parking space requirements shall apply:
Required Off-Street Parking by Use/Activity | |
|---|---|
Use or Use Category | Spaces Required |
Residential | |
Accessory dwelling unit | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Age-restricted housing | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Apartment accessory to a commercial use | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Assisted living facility | 1 space per staff and 1 space per 3 residents |
Bed-and-breakfast inn | 1 space per family member residing in the dwelling and 1 space per room or unit which is rented |
Continuing care facility | 1 space per staff and 1 space per 2 residents |
Day care (family) | 2 spaces per dwelling unit plus 1 space per employee |
Dwelling, detached, modular | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, detached, single-family | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, attached, single-family (duplex and townhouse) | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, cottage cluster | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, garden apartment | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, high-rise apartment | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, mid-rise apartment | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, neighborhood apartment | 1 space per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, stacked townhouse | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, townhouse | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, triplex | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Dwelling, quadplex | 2 spaces per dwelling unit |
Halfway house | 1 space per staff person and 1 space per 2 residents |
Personal care home | 3 spaces per every 5 beds |
Retirement community | See Continuing care facility |
Commercial | |
Agricultural machinery sales and service | 1 space per 200 square feet of retail area plus 1 space per 800 square feet of storage area |
Auction house | 1 space per 6 seats or 1 space per 400 square feet, whichever is greater |
Automobile or boat sales/rental | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area (excluding storage areas) |
Automobile car wash | 1 space per 2 employees plus 7 stacking spaces per washing lane |
Automobile repair shop | 1 space per 100 square feet for the station, minimum of 8 |
Banquet facility | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Brewery, micro | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Brewery, production | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area plus 1 space per each full-time employee |
Brewpubs | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Business services | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area, plus 1 space per each full-time employee |
Bus station, train station, taxi depot and transit center | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area, minimum of 10 spaces per facility |
Cannabis dispensary | 1 space per 50 square feet of gross floor area |
CBD shop | 1 space per 50 square feet of gross floor area |
Cannabis grower | 1 space per employee |
Cannabis processor | 1 space per employee |
Catering services | 1 space per employee |
Class A self-storage facility | 1 space per employee |
Coliseums, stadiums and accessory dormitory | 1 space per 4 seats (restaurant/banquet/retail to be treated separately) and 1 space per 2 beds for dormitory |
Commercial, amusement, entertainment, recreational facilities, and sports camps | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area of any building; golf course, 4 spaces per hole; bowling alley, 4 spaces per lane |
Conference center | 1 space per 4 seats (restaurant/banquet to be treated separately) |
Construction services and suppliers | 1 space per 200 square feet of retail area, plus 1 space per full-time employee on site |
Convenience retail establishment with accessory fuel pumps | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross retail floor area plus 2 stacking spaces per side of each fuel pump island |
Creamery | 1 per 3 seats plus 1 per employee |
Day-care center (group) | 1 space per employee and 1 space per 10 children/students |
Day spa | 1 space per 100 square feet of gross floor area |
Dental office | 5 spaces per dentist |
Distillery, full and limited | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Financial institutions (banks, credit unions, and check cashing establishments) | 1 per 300 square feet of gross floor area and stacking for 4 vehicles at each drive-through lane |
Fortune-telling | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area plus 1 space per each employee |
Fuel storage facility | 1 space per each employee at largest shift |
Funeral establishment | 1 space per 100 square feet of viewing area |
Gas station | 2 spaces per gasoline pump and 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area |
Gourmet food establishment | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area, excluding storage area |
Greenhouse/nursery | 4 spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area |
Heliports and helistops | None required |
Hotel, full-service/motel | 1 space for every room plus 2 spaces for each management staff (restaurant/banquet/retail in motel/hotel to be treated separately) |
Kennel | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Liquor store | 1 space per 50 square feet of gross floor area |
Medical services - clinic, doctor's office, hospital, laboratory, and urgent care | 5 spaces per doctor, 1 space per 2 beds, and 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area excluding storage areas |
Medical spa | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Mini warehousing | 1 space per employee |
Mobile home sales office | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area |
Movie theaters | 1 space per 3 patron seats |
Office building | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area |
Open-air market (farm, craft and produce markets) | 1 space per 200 square feet of lot area used for storage, display or sales |
Personal services | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Pet day care services | 1 space per employee |
Pet store | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Pharmacy with or without drive-through facilities | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area and stacking for 4 vehicles at each drive-through lane |
Radio and television station | 1 space per employee at largest shift plus 4 visitor spaces |
Restaurant | 1 space per 3 patron seats plus 1 space per employee at largest shift and 2 spaces for carry-out service (if needed) |
Restaurant with drive-through facility | 1 space per 3 patron seats plus 1 space per employee at largest shift and 7 stacking spaces for drive-through window |
Retail, commercial stores | 1 space per 200 square feet of retail sales area |
Shopping centers | 1 space per 250 square feet of gross leasable floor area |
Tobacco shops | 1 space per 50 square feet of gross floor area |
Tattoo parlors | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Truck repair, truck service station, or truck terminal | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Veterinary services | 1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area |
Warehouse establishments | 1 space per employee at largest shift |
Welding and metal fabrication | 1 space per 200 square feet of gross floor area |
Wholesale establishments | 1 space per employee at largest shift |
Industrial | |
Any manufacturing use | 1 space per employee at largest shift and on-site parking as necessary to accommodate traffic generated by the use |
Institutional | |
Art galleries | 1 space per 400 square feet of gross floor area designated for public use |
Auditoriums/lecture halls/convention centers | 1 space per 3 persons based on designed capacity of building |
Club, nonprofit | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Club, private | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Club, recreational | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Community center | 1 space per 3 persons permitted under the State Fire Code |
Emergency medical service, fire station or police station | 1 space per employee on largest work shift |
Homeless shelter | 1 space per employee plus parking for vans or buses serving the shelter |
Hospital, nursing and other medical treatment or skilled care facilities | 1 space per inpatient and/or outpatient bed plus 2 spaces per 3 employees on the largest work shift plus 1 space per staff doctor |
Libraries and museums | 1 space per 250 square feet of gross floor area or 1 per 4 seats, whichever is greater |
Places of religious worship and affiliated schools | 1 space per 3 seats in the main chapel plus 1 space for each teacher |
Public or governmental buildings | 1 space per employee at largest shift and designated visitor spaces |
Public utilities | 1 space per employee at largest shift |
Schools, colleges and universities, elementary and secondary, trade and vocational | 1 space per 3 college or university students; 1 space per every 6 high school students; 1 space per every 15 elementary students |
Warming center or station | 1 space per employee plus parking for vans or buses serving the shelter |
D.
Off-street loading areas.
(1)
Any use which regularly receives deliveries or shipments must provide off-street loading areas in accordance with the requirements specified below.
(2)
Retail uses, industrial uses, warehouses, and hospitals. Every retail establishment, industrial use, warehouse, or hospital having a gross floor area of 6,000 square feet or more shall provide minimum off-street loading facilities as follows:
Gross Floor Area of Building (square feet) | Number of Berths |
|---|---|
6,000 to 24,999 | 1 |
25,000 to 79,999 | 2 |
80,000 to 127,999 | 3 |
128,000 to 197,999 | 4 |
198,000 to 255,999 | 5 |
256,000 to 319,999 | 6 |
320,000 to 391,999 | 7 |
392,000 and more | 8 |
(3)
Loading and unloading areas shall be so located and designed that the vehicles intended to use them can maneuver safely and conveniently to and from public rights-of-way and complete the loading and unloading operations without obstructing or interfering with any public right-of-way, parking space, parking lot aisle or pedestrian way.
(4)
No loading and unloading areas may be used to satisfy the area requirements for off-street parking, nor shall any portion of any off-street parking area be used to satisfy the area requirements for loading and unloading.
(5)
Loading spaces shall be located at least 50 feet from any residential use, unless the loading space is totally enclosed within a building or screened by a hedge, wall, or solid board fence at least six feet in height.
E.
There are no off-street parking requirements for the Transit Oriented Development Districts.
F.
Parking standard modifications. The off-street parking requirement for any given use is established by § 235-25C, Parking space requirements. The Planning Commission may:
(1)
Recommend a modification of the parking space requirements if they determine that, in the particular case, the specific nature of the use or the exceptional shape or size of the property or other exceptional situations or conditions warrant such a modification. Such a modification shall not reduce the number of parking spaces to less than 50% of the required spaces. This reduction may be taken with a recommendation from the Planning Commission and approval from the City Council.
(2)
If pedestrian access, bicycle access and parking or connections to multi-modal transportation are provided on site from the public right-of-way to the primary building, the required parking standards may also be reduced by up to 10%. This reduction may be taken with a recommendation from the Planning Commission and approval from the City Council.
§ 235-26 Outdoor storage.
[Amended 2-22-2021 by Ord. No. 21-O-02; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Outdoor storage in commercial, industrial, IBD, and TOD districts must meet the following requirements:
(1)
Outdoor storage areas must be surrounded by a uniformly finished fence or wall not to exceed the height of the building.
(2)
Such wall or fence shall be maintained in good repair.
(3)
The items being stored within the wall or fence shall not exceed or be stacked to exceed the height of the wall or fence.
(4)
Storage of cars and trucks used in connection with the permitted trade or business shall be permitted without restriction.
(5)
Trailers for storage or shipping containers shall be prohibited.
(6)
Construction services and suppliers as defined in § 235-7 of this chapter may store any equipment or supplies associated with the business within a wall, fence, or behind an on-site building so long as the equipment or supplies do not exceed the height of the wall, fence, or building.
B.
Storage of construction equipment is not permitted in the R-1, R-2, R-3, B-1, IBD or TOD Districts.
C.
Temporary storage containers or similar storage units shall be permitted for no more than 30 days with an approved building permit.
D.
Storage lots for abandoned vehicles, junk vehicles, tractor trailers, trailers, or any other registered vehicle are prohibited in all zoning districts.
§ 235-27 Accessory uses and other restrictions.
[Amended 7-27-2020 by Ord. No. 20-O-08; 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
Generally. Except as otherwise restricted by this chapter, customary accessory structures and uses shall be permitted in any district in connection with the principal permitted use within such district. A building permit is required for accessory uses and structures, short-term guest occupancy and temporary occupancy created by a hardship or emergency of a recreational vehicle as provided in § 235-27I(2)(g) and (i).
B.
No accessory use or structure shall be permitted without a principal use.
C.
No accessory use or structure shall be established on any lot prior to substantial completion of the construction of the principal structure.
D.
No accessory use or structure shall increase any impervious surface area beyond the permitted setback requirements or as provided in other sections of this chapter.
E.
No accessory use or structure on any lot shall be established within the required front yard, except signs, fences, walls or parking area, and projections or garages as specified in the exceptions and modifications to minimum yard requirements.
F.
No accessory use or structure, except fences, shall be located within any recorded easement area.
G.
An accessory structure shall be located at least six feet from any other building on the same lot and at least six feet from side and rear property lines.
H.
Accessory uses in residential districts. The following accessory uses or structures shall be permitted in residential districts:
(1)
For the purpose of this section, accessory structures are detached garages, pole-barns, gazebos, pergolas, carports, and sheds. Accessory uses would be in ground and aboveground swimming pools, fences, retaining walls, decks, porches, and patios.
(2)
Swimming pools shall be located not less than 10 feet from any side or rear lot line. A walk space at least three feet wide shall be provided around pool walls, and a safety fence with self-closing gate at least four feet in height shall be installed. In the case of aboveground pools more than three feet in height above the yard surface, no fence is required. If the swimming pool is located within the side yard it must be fully screened with a fence or hedge from adjacent properties and streets.
(3)
The office or studio of a physician or surgeon, dentist, artist, lawyer, architect, engineer, teacher, or person engaged in a home occupation as defined herein, provided that the individual concerned resides on the premises and that not more than 25% of the entire floor space on the lot shall be used for such purpose.
(4)
A private detached garage not exceeding 1,200 square feet.
(5)
The keeping of small animals, insects, reptiles, fish, or birds as pets or for household use and not as a business shall be permitted. The breeding, raising, or possessing of poultry or farm animals shall not be permitted in any district. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, chickens other than roosters or cockerels may be kept for household use or as household pets in accordance with the following provisions:
(a)
Number of chickens; lot requirements.
[1]
The number of chickens that may be kept on any lot may not exceed six chickens for each 1/2 acre or portion of 1/2 acre of lot area;
[2]
The lot where chickens are kept shall be fenced to prevent chickens from leaving the lot; and
[3]
A protective coop shall be maintained on the lot to provide shelter for the chickens. As used in this subsection, a "coop" means an enclosed accessory structure that houses chickens for nesting and shelter. The coop must be made of one or more of the following: treated lumber, composite materials or brick; and roofing on a coop may be made of one or more of the following: treated lumber, metal roof paneling or roofing shingles. The coop shall be at least three square feet per the number of chickens kept on the lot and shall be located in compliance with all locational requirements for an accessory structure as set forth in Subsection G of this section. Notwithstanding Chapter 210, Building Construction, of this Code, a building permit is not required for the construction and/or placement of a coop required by this subsection unless the coop exceeds 24 square feet.
(b)
A permit shall be established and issued to the homeowner by the Department of Planning and Community Development, the cost of the permit not to exceed $25, in order to keep a local record of residential flocks and to cover code enforcement costs when applicable.
(6)
Doghouse for up to five dogs.
I.
Restrictions in residential districts.
(1)
The total number of accessory structures shall not exceed 50% of the square footage of the principal use or structure as shown in the records of the Maryland Department of Assessments and Taxation.
(2)
Except as otherwise permitted by this section or § 235-28, no RV, boat, camper, trailer, or accessory structure shall be used, either permanently or temporarily, for living quarters, the storage of contractors' equipment or the conducting of any business.
(a)
Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:
BOAT
A vessel for transport by water constructed to provide buoyancy by excluding water and shaped to give stability and permit propulsion.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV)
Any camping trailer, motor home, travel trailer, truck camper used primarily for recreational purpose, as well as vehicles including, but not limited to, all-terrain vehicles, boats, snowmobiles, watercraft, and other similar vehicles.
TRAILER
A wheeled unit attached and towed by a motorized vehicle, which is designed to carry property. A trailer cannot be motorized or self-operable.
(b)
Allowable uses. An owner or occupant of a residential structure may store a RV, trailer, or boat owned by the property owner or occupant on his/her property, provided that:
[1]
If stored in the required front yard of the lot, the RV, trailer, or boat shall be parked on the driveway or driveway apron.
[2]
The RV, trailer, or boat is operable and is currently registered in the home state of the owner or occupant of the property. All active military will be exempt from the home state requirement if proof of military identification is provided.
[3]
A boat stored in a residential district shall not be longer than 25 feet in length, and a trailer or RV stored in a residential district shall not be longer than 40 feet in length.
[4]
The RV, trailer, or boat stored on the property cannot exceed a height of 13 feet.
(c)
Exceptions.
[1]
A kayak, canoe, and nontrailered boat less than 17 feet in length shall not be regulated under this chapter.
(d)
Street parking or storage of a recreational vehicle, boat, or trailer is not permitted on any street, except for a period not exceeding 48 consecutive hours for purposes of loading and unloading. A recreational vehicle, boat, or trailer may not be parked or stored in any fashion that would block any public right-of-way or sight lines of drivers, bicyclists, or pedestrians.
(e)
Any RV, boat, camper, or trailer stored on the property may not be utilized for storage unless the items are associated with the accessory use related to the RV, boat, camper, or trailer.
(f)
Except as otherwise expressly permitted by this section or § 235-28, no RV, boat, camper, or trailer shall be occupied for living or sleeping purposes, either permanently or temporarily.
(g)
Short-term guest occupancy. A recreational vehicle may be occupied for short-term guest use on private property for a period not to exceed 30 consecutive days, provided the property contains a legally established principal dwelling unit.
(h)
The placement of the recreational vehicle shall be at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator and shall consider public safety and access.
(i)
Hardship or emergency occupancy. Temporary occupancy of a recreational vehicle may be permitted when a principal dwelling unit is rendered uninhabitable due to fire, flood, natural disaster, or other verified hardship. Such occupancy shall be subject to approval by the Zoning Administrator for no more than 31 days with a maximum period of six months, with one extension being granted upon a determination that the hardship continues to exist. As a condition of approval, the applicant shall submit a plan for the safe and lawful disposal of gray water and black water. The approved plan shall comply with all applicable local and state health and sanitation regulations.
(j)
Board of Appeals approval. Any person seeking to occupy a recreational vehicle beyond the time periods permitted above may apply to the Board of Appeals, which may approve such occupancy upon finding that the request is due to a demonstrated hardship or unique circumstance and will not adversely affect the public health, safety, or welfare or adjoining properties. Any approval shall be limited in duration and subject to reasonable conditions.
J.
Accessory uses in business and industrial districts.
(1)
The following accessory uses shall be permitted in the business and industrial districts:
(a)
A dwelling unit, including an office trailer, for a caretaker or watchman shall be permitted, provided that:
[1]
Not more than one dwelling is provided for security or protection of the principal use.
[2]
The requirements for the dwelling unit shall not differ from those imposed by this chapter for a housing unit of the same or similar type as a principal permitted use.
(b)
Accessory uses permitted in the residential districts as provided in Subsection H of this section.
(2)
Business, industrial, and institutional accessory structures shall be subject to the same side and rear yards as required for the principal structure.
(3)
Contractor's office and construction equipment sheds or accommodations for security shall be permitted if the use is incidental to a construction project. The office or shed shall be removed upon completion of the project.
K.
Transit Oriented Development District. Accessory uses or structures in TOD Districts shall be permitted and shall be subject to the same side yard and rear setbacks as required for the principal structure.
L.
Integrated Business District. Accessory uses or structures are permitted in residential developments as provided in Subsections A through I of this section.
M.
For townhouses and zero-lot line dwellings, detached accessory structures shall be located:
(1)
Three feet from side or rear yard lot lines, unless the lot has a recorded drainage and utility easement or any other recorded easement.
(2)
For lots with recorded easements, accessory structures shall not be permitted within the easement and the setback shall be five feet from the easement.
§ 235-28 Home occupations.
[Amended 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
Home occupations or professional offices within the home shall be allowed in accordance with the following criteria:
A.
The home occupation must be incidental and subordinate to the residential use and shall not exceed 25% of the gross floor space of the principal building or dwelling unit.
B.
The home occupation shall be conducted within the dwelling unit, and no outdoor display or storage of materials, vehicles, goods, supplies or equipment used in the home occupation shall be permitted on the premises. No toxic, explosive, flammable, combustible or noxious materials shall be stored on the premises.
C.
The residential character of the dwelling unit shall not be altered to accommodate a home occupation.
D.
Not more than one person other than the occupants of the dwelling unit may be employed in the home occupation. The total of all employees inclusive of family members shall not exceed three. No home occupation shall be open to the public between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.
E.
No home occupation shall generate greater traffic volumes or increased traffic hazards than would normally be expected in a residential district. No more than four people may avail themselves of the services provided by the home occupation at a given dwelling unit at any time.
F.
No goods, materials or supplies shall be delivered by commercial vehicles either to or from the premises in connection with the home occupation, except by the United States postal service or a delivery service with a vehicle no larger than a one-ton truck.
G.
No commercial vehicles in excess of 9,000 pounds gross vehicle weight or construction equipment related to the home occupation may be parked or stored on site or in the public right-of-way.
H.
A home occupation permit is required from the Department of Planning and Community Development.
I.
Notwithstanding Subsections A through H, home occupations shall not include automobile repair; selling of bait, crabs or fish; construction businesses; dancing or karate schools; funeral homes; kennels; medical clinics; petroleum storage or delivery businesses; printing businesses; private clubs; radio stations; restaurants or carry-out food services; or gift stores.
§ 235-29 Temporary use permits.
[Amended 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
Temporary uses as specified in the Table of Uses shall be permitted subject to the following:
A.
Permit. Temporary uses require the issuance of a temporary use permit for the use location which shall specify the use, dates, location, hours of operation and such other information as reasonably may be required by the Zoning Administrator.
B.
Duration. Unless otherwise specified in Subsection C, a temporary use may not exceed five consecutive days.
C.
Specific temporary uses. The temporary uses described below shall be subject to the following duration limitations:
(1)
A carnival, circus, craft show, animal show, flea market, festival, fair or similar event shall be allowed for a maximum period of seven consecutive days and 15 cumulative days in a 12-calendar-month period.
(2)
Contractor's office and construction equipment sheds or accommodations for security incidental to a construction project shall be removed upon completion of the project.
(3)
A real estate sales office for rental or sale of dwellings in a project shall be removed upon initial sale of all units.
(4)
When a fire or natural disaster has rendered a residence unfit for human habitation, the temporary use of a mobile home located on the lot during rehabilitation of the original residence or construction of a new residence is permitted for a period of 12 months, but only if water and sanitary facilities are approved by the City of Aberdeen's Department of Public Works. The Zoning Administrator may extend the permit an additional 60 days, if necessary. The mobile home shall be removed from the property at the expiration of the permitted time or upon completion of the new or rehabilitated residence, whichever occurs first.
(5)
Temporary stands for seasonal sales of products shall be allowed for a maximum period of 90 days in any consecutive 12-month period.
D.
Specific temporary use criteria. Each temporary use must comply with the following criteria:
(1)
Each application for a temporary use permit must be accompanied by a site plan, drawn to scale, that accurately demonstrates compliance with the requirements of this section.
(2)
The proposed site shall be of sufficient size to accommodate the proposed temporary use and associated parking without adversely affecting adjacent land uses.
(3)
The temporary use and all structures related to the use shall comply with all setbacks for the zone in which the use is located.
(4)
No temporary structure, facilities or equipment for the use may be located closer than 250 feet from any residential district or existing dwelling, and no temporary use activity may take place more than 500 feet from a residential district.
(5)
Temporary use operations adjacent to land used for residential purposes shall commence not earlier than 7:00 a.m. and cease not later than 11:00 p.m.
(6)
Except for a temporary use in a residential district, vehicular access to the temporary use shall be derived only from an arterial or major collector road.
(7)
A minimum of one parking space shall be provided for each 500 square feet of ground area at the activity.
(8)
Any outdoor activity site for the temporary use shall be cleared of all litter and debris at the end of each day and at the end of the event, and cleared of all temporary structures within three days after the end of the event. A signed contract with a disposal firm shall be provided to ensure that the site will be cleared of all litter and debris.
(9)
The holder of the permit shall provide for adequate traffic and crowd control for the temporary use.
(10)
If the permit applicant or holder of the permit requests the City to provide extraordinary services or equipment or it is otherwise determined that extraordinary services or equipment should be provided to protect the public health, safety or welfare, the applicant or holder of the permit shall be required to reimburse the City for the cost of the services or equipment unless the City has anticipated the specific use in the budget and appropriated sufficient funds to cover the costs incurred.
§ 235-30 Landscaping, outdoor lighting and buffer yards.
[Amended 3-9-2026 by Ord. No. 25-O-16]
A.
General landscaping plan requirements.
(1)
A landscape plan shall include certification, signature, seal and date by a landscape architect registered by the State of Maryland. For minor subdivisions of up to five lots, the plan is not required to be sealed by a landscape architect.
(2)
The plan shall be drawn to scale with the scale noted.
(3)
A landscape plan is required for all new residential and nonresidential development projects, including any enlargement of a commercial or industrial building exceeding 1,000 square feet, and any construction of a new parking lot or expansion of an existing parking lot.
(4)
The landscape plan shall be reviewed and approved by the Department of Planning and Community Development and the Department of Public Works. The landscape plan shall:
(a)
Include native Maryland plant materials, such as trees, shrubs, ground covers, and perennials.
(b)
Specify the location, size, and species of plant materials, method of installation, and method for maintenance and retention of materials.
(c)
Identify all streams, floodplain zones, and nontidal wetlands along with the preliminary site plan. The plan shall indicate all plans for tree maintenance, stormwater management, revegetation and establishment of vegetated buffers and the method of providing perpetual protection of any special flood hazard areas as required by Chapter 275, Floodplain Management, of the Code of the City of Aberdeen.
(d)
Landscaping within easements for public water, sewer, or storm drains is not permitted.
(e)
The location of all existing and proposed structures, fences, walls, streets, parking and loading areas, utilities, lighting, rights-of-way and easements.
(f)
Types of trees recommended are deciduous and evergreens but not limited to include the following species: American Holly, Arborvitae, Eastern red cedar, Sweetbay Magnolia, Pines, American Beech, Hickory, Maple, Oaks, Sassafras, and Crape myrtle.
(g)
No trees shall be planted under overhead service wires if their mature height will interfere with the wires.
(5)
Any applicant seeking a modification to the approved landscape plan shall submit a written request to the Department of Planning and Community Development justifying the proposed change and a revised plan identifying the proposed modifications.
B.
General planting requirements shall include the following:
(1)
Large street trees shall measure a minimum of 1 1/2 to two inch caliper; and medium street trees shall measure a minimum of one inch caliper.
(2)
The area between the trees shall be mulched and the landscaped beds with shrubs or ground cover shall be mulched in accordance with landscape industry standards.
(3)
Trees shall be of substantially uniform size and shape.
(4)
Shrubs shall be container grown in not less than three gallon containers at the time of installation, and shall never be pruned to less than five feet in height.
(5)
Trees in the buffer yard shall be a minimum of 4 1/2 to six feet in height.
(6)
Trees and shrubs shall be adequately supported when planted.
(7)
All plant materials shall be healthy, vigorous, well-rooted and free of defects, decay, or disease infestations. All required plant materials shall be maintained by the property owner.
(8)
Within one year of planting, any dead or dying trees or plant materials shall be replaced one time by the applicant during the next planting season.
C.
Parking lot planting requirements will apply to all zoning districts.
(1)
Planting islands should be used to define circulation patterns, break up rows of parking, and to soften the visual impact of large expanses of pavement.
(2)
In general, impervious areas within parking lots should be evenly distributed throughout the parking lot to maximize shading.
(3)
Islands should be provided at both ends of parking rows to protect parked cars from moving vehicles and to ensure more even distribution of shade throughout the parking lot.
(4)
Trees in or at the edge of parking lots should be major shade trees that can be trimmed so that at maturity cars and trucks may circulate beneath the canopy without causing damage. Major shade trees are listed in Appendix 3, Plant Lists.
(5)
Good visibility in the parking lot is important, both for neighborhood security and traffic safety. The use of landscaping elements and plants that restrict visibility, such as tall shrubs, evergreen trees, and low-branching trees, should be avoided.
(6)
The use and location of plant materials at vehicular entrances should be placed to maintain safe sight distances.
(7)
Plants in parking lots are subject to many adverse conditions and are not likely to receive consistent care. Accordingly, principles of sustainability should be considered when selecting plant materials. Specifically, plant material should be moderate-to-slow growing, require little maintenance, and tolerate such conditions as sun, wind, drought, glare, reflected heat, salt and chemicals, and restricted planting spaces.
(8)
Planting spaces should be large enough to allow for healthy tree growth and should be protected from car overhangs and opening car doors.
Parking Lot Interior Planting Requirements | |
|---|---|
Parking Lot Area (square feet) | Percent of Interior Planting Area Required |
0-6,999 | 2% |
7,000-49,999 | 8% |
50,000-99,999 | 10% |
100,000-149,999 | 13% |
150,000 or larger | 15% |
D.
Parking lot perimeter landscape requirements.
(1)
10-foot-wide with shrubs and trees: Provide a minimum 10-foot-wide landscape strip between the parking lot and any adjacent property line. Within this landscape strip, provide one shade tree and 10 shrubs per 35 linear feet of parking lot adjacent to a property line. (This does not mean that shade trees must be located 35 feet on center.) Shrubs shall include a diversity of species and shall be arranged in an informal and naturalistic manner.
(2)
Any existing shade tree (except an invasive species) exceeding four inches diameter at breast height (dbh) that is located within 15 feet of the edge of the parking lot may count at a rate of one-to-one toward fulfillment of this requirement, provided that 70% or more of the critical root zone is undisturbed. Shrubs shall not be planted within the critical root zone, and the shrub requirement shall be waived for that portion of the parking lot perimeter when preserving existing vegetation (See Figure 1 below). Up to 1/4 of the number of required shade trees may be substituted on a two-to-one basis with ornamental/evergreen trees.
 |
E.
Outdoor lighting requirements.
(1)
Outdoor lighting fixtures shall be installed in a manner that minimizes negative impacts from light pollution, including light trespass, glare, and urban sky glow, in order to preserve enjoyment of the night sky and minimize conflict caused by unnecessary illumination.
(2)
Regulation of outdoor lighting is also intended to promote lighting design that provides for public safety and conserves electrical energy.
(3)
All light fixtures, including security lighting, shall be aimed or shielded so that the direct illumination shall be confined to the property boundaries of the source. Particular care is to be taken to assure that the direct illumination does not fall onto or across any public or private street or road, except for:
(a)
Residential entrance lights installed in accordance with the National Electrical Code and all subsequent amendments;
(b)
Outdoor lighting fixtures less than 5,000 lumens, including landscape lighting and decorative lighting;
(c)
Outdoor lighting installed to meet Federal Aviation Administration requirements;
(d)
A designated historical structure;
(e)
Lighting for all outdoor athletic fields, courts, tracks, or sports fields;
(f)
Outdoor illuminated signs; and
(g)
Maintenance to existing outdoor lighting when the following applies:
[1]
The work does not involve the installation of a new light standard, a new lighting fixture, or new wiring;
[2]
The work does not result in an increase in electrical load; and
[3]
Where applicable, the spacing of existing previously conforming light standards is greater than six times the mounting height of the existing outdoor lighting.
(4)
Outdoor lighting shall not exceed a nominal 4000 Kelvin color-correlated temperature (CCT).
(5)
Searchlights, laser source lights, strobe or flashing lights, or any similar high-intensity light shall not be permitted, except in emergencies by police and fire personnel at their direction.
(6)
Lighting requirements for subdivisions and residential developments shall follow the requirements established by the Department of Public Works.
F.
Buffer yard requirements.
(1)
Buffer yards shall be located on the boundary of a project which adjoins the use to be buffered and shall be in addition to the setback areas or yards otherwise provided in this chapter.
(2)
The buffer yard is intended to be landscaped in a manner that provides an effective visual buffering on a year-round basis. The buffer yard is intended to increase the visual appeal within a district and to minimize the impact of noise between districts. No landscaping will be required for wetlands, non-tidal wetlands, and any land within Harford County jurisdiction. Walking trails and bike paths may be permitted within buffer yards, provided all landscaping, screening, and visual buffering requirements are maintained.
(3)
The following minimum buffer yard requirements shall be applicable to all districts:
Proposed District or Use | Adjacent District or Use | Buffer Yard Width (feet) |
|---|---|---|
R-1 and R-2 | R-3 (Single-family dwellings) | 10 |
R-1 and R-2 | R-3 (Multi-family dwellings) | 20 |
R-3 (Multi-family dwellings) | R-1 and R-2 (Single-family dwellings) | 20 |
Residential rear yard | Collector and arterial public roads | 25 |
Active public recreation over 2 acres | Residential use | 50 |
Residential use | Active Public Recreation over 2 acres | 50 |
B-1 District | Residential (Single-family dwellings) | 20 |
Residential (Single-family dwellings) | B-1 District | 20 |
B-1 District | Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | 15 |
Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | B-1 | 15 |
B-2 District | Residential (Single-family dwellings) | 35 |
Residential (Single-family dwellings) | B-2 District | 35 |
B-2 District | Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | 25 |
Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | B-2 District | 25 |
B-3 District | Residential (Single-family dwellings) | 50 |
Residential (Single-family dwellings) | B-3 District | 50 |
B-3 District | Residential (Single-family dwellings) | 50 |
Residential (Single-family dwellings) | B-3 District | 50 |
B-3 District | Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | 35 |
Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | B-3 District | 35 |
M-1 District | Any residential use | 100 |
Any residential use | M-1 District | 100 |
IBD (Commercial use) | Residential (Single-family dwellings) | 25 |
Residential (Single-family dwellings) | IBD (Commercial use) | 25 |
IBD (Commercial use) | Residential (Multi-family dwellings) | 15 |
Any use | Wetlands, nontidal | 25 |
Any use | If the watercourse has special flood hazard areas as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map | 100 |
Any use | If the watercourse does not have special flood hazard areas shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Map | 50 |
(4)
A buffer yard shall be landscaped to screen incompatible uses in accordance with any one of the following requirements:
(a)
A planting strip at least 10 feet wide at or near the property line, including trees or shrubs at least two feet high at the time of planting, which may be expected to form a year-round screen within three years.
(b)
A landscaped, rolling, earth mound of at least four feet in height.
(c)
A solid fence or wall of a minimum of five feet in height without advertising, when designed with durable materials, texture and colors compatible with adjacent uses.
(5)
Exemptions. This section does not apply to the following situations:
(a)
The reconstruction of an existing building of which 50% or less of the floor area was destroyed or ruined by flooding, fire, or windstorm. This exemption shall apply only where reconstruction of that building will not result in an increase in building size or paving area of the parking facilities to be provided.
(b)
Any use, building or structure for which only a change of use is requested, and which use does not increase the existing building square footage, nor requires structural modifications which would increase its volume or scale.
(c)
Contiguous commercial parcels or land areas under common ownership, within one development project.
