The purpose of this chapter is to ensure that all new development within the city is of exceptional quality and expresses attractive architectural and site design standards consistent with its particular use and location. The provisions in this chapter are meant to supplement the objectives of other chapters in this title which also impose certain design standards or requirements that are zone specific. (Ord. 2010-04, 1-26-2010)

The design standards set forth in this chapter shall apply to:

   A.   New Buildings And Uses: All new two-family and multiple-family dwellings, public facilities, and commercial and industrial buildings and uses except where:

      1.   A different standard is imposed by the requirements of an applicable zoning classification; or

      2.   The requirements of this chapter are expressly superseded by another provision of this title.

   B.   Existing Buildings And Uses: Existing buildings and uses when a change occurs that involves a standard set forth in this chapter and:

      1.   Requires a building or other permit issued by the city;

      2.   Increases required parking; or

      3.   Increases the amount of outside storage.

   C.   Imposition Of Conditions: In approving a site plan, the planning commission may impose conditions consistent with the purpose and intent of this title.

   D.   Standards And Guidelines: This chapter establishes two (2) kinds of design criteria: design standards and design guidelines. They are intended to improve the quality and compatibility of development, particularly with regard to building design and site design. These criteria apply to all nonresidential projects and are the minimum that will be accepted.

      1.   Design Standards: Design standards are required in addition to other standards set forth in this title and are indicated by the verb "shall". Design standards are intended to ensure quality development and permanence in design. The implementation of these standards ensures that the goals and values of the community are reflected in each commercial development and contribute positively to the overall built environment. To better clarify these standards, a set of design guidelines may accompany and explain each standard.

      2.   Design Guidelines: Design guidelines are utilized in building and site design to meet the required standards set forth in this chapter. They indicate additional actions that may be taken to enhance development design and achieve greater compatibility with adjacent land uses. Guidelines use the verb "should" (rather than "shall"), signifying that they are desirable objectives. Application of the guidelines will depend on the nature of the proposed site plans and the surrounding area, as may be determined by the planning commission. (Ord. 2010-04, 1-26-2010)

   A.   Deviations Authorized: In all applicable cases the design standards contained in this chapter shall be met, except as determined by the planning commission. Deviations from strict compliance of the standards listed in this chapter may be authorized if the planning commission makes the findings listed in subsection B of this section.

   B.   Findings Required: The planning commission may authorize a deviation from the standards listed in this chapter if it finds the deviation:

      1.   Is consistent with the purpose of this chapter and any applicable master plan or ordinance;

      2.   Will not adversely affect neighboring property owners or residents; and

      3.   Reflects an innovative or unique design that conforms to the requirements of this chapter to the greatest extent possible and offers alternatives for addressing the intent of the requirements of this chapter; or is required to create a consistent and compatible design in cases which involve the following:

         a.   Redeveloped buildings;

         b.   Additions to existing buildings;

         c.   Minor structures added to a site; or

         d.   New buildings within a previously approved phased project. (Ord. 2010-04, 1-26-2010)

   A.   Building Placement: The following standards shall be carefully considered as part of the overall development review:

      1.   All buildings shall be located with the main facade facing the principal street to which it has frontage.

      2.   Buildings located on corner lots shall orient main facades to each street and give equal treatment to each.

      3.   Buildings located on corner lots should include a prominent architectural feature of greater height or emphasis at the corner where the two (2) public streets meet.

      4.   Buildings should be located as close to the front property line considering site, use, and other constraints or requirements.

      5.   Main entrances shall be oriented toward the street rather than parking in cases where buildings can be located adjacent to the public right of way.

   B.   Context: New development shall consider the site design and building placement of surrounding development in order to create a site which relates to its surroundings and adds positively to the overall built environment in the site area. Additionally all developments shall consider natural features, such as view corridors, water channels, topography, and vegetation, as integral features to be preserved, enhanced, and which will contribute to the site.

   C.   Miscellaneous Site Considerations: The following considerations shall be made during initial site planning:

      1.   Service And Loading Bays: Landscaped areas and walls shall be used to decrease noise levels and separate loading and service bays from customer parking where possible. Service and loading bays (automotive, service, tire, etc.) should be oriented away from neighboring residential areas and major public streets. The general public should be restricted from accessing such areas when possible.

      2.   Outdoor Refuse And Garbage Collection Containers: Outdoor refuse and garbage collection containers shall be fully screened from view using the same materials as the building or approved masonry fencing. Enclosures shall also be surrounded by landscaping to further soften their visual impact. The general public shall be restricted from accessing such areas.

      3.   Generators; Large Auxiliary Equipment: Generators and other large auxiliary equipment shall be placed at locations where they will be least intrusive in terms of noise, appearance, and odors, particularly for occupants of neighboring properties. Site plans should also consider public utilities equipment placement and communicate early in the planning process with the various public utility providers about potential utility equipment placement on the site.

         a.   Equipment should be kept low to the ground.

         b.   Exhaust systems shall not protrude above the equipment.

         c.   Walls, landscaping, and other screening shall be used.

      4.   Open Spaces: The locations of all buildings and structures shall allow and provide an interconnected system of open space allowing open space and landscaping areas to connect with similar open spaces and landscaping areas existing, or planned to be located, on adjacent properties.

      5.   Chainlink Fencing: Chainlink fencing shall not be permitted adjacent to a public right of way or in a required front yard.

      6.   Utilities: All utility distribution facilities, including electrical, telecommunications, and natural gas services shall be placed underground. Transformers, terminal boxes, meter cabinets, pedestals and other necessary appurtenances to the underground facilities may be placed aboveground where necessary.

   D.   Landscaping: Landscaping shall be used as a tool to enhance and beautify the site.

      1.   Outdoor amenities shall be provided for every development on a site with a combined building floor area totaling twenty thousand (20,000) square feet or greater. Outdoor amenities are designed for pedestrians and create plazas or other focal points that are inviting to site patrons. These amenities shall be located near entrances or other focal points within the development where they will be convenient and comfortable for users. Restaurants and other similar uses are encouraged to provide additional outdoor seating areas for their patrons, but shall not include these areas as an outdoor amenity if restricted to only paying customers. Outdoor amenities may include the following:

         a.   Seating areas including patios, decks, porches, benches, tables, and pergolas;

         b.   Water features;

         c.   Garden areas designed for active use.

      2.   Landscaping shall be integrated into the design, placement, and enhancement of pedestrian plazas, sitting areas, walkways, flagpoles, and signs. This may be accomplished by giving special attention to any plantings immediately adjacent to pedestrian areas and walkways. This landscaping shall not overgrow or impede pedestrian areas, but rather allow for detail and aesthetics more amenable to pedestrians.

      3.   Drought resistant shrubs and trees are required in conjunction with efficient low water use smart automatic irrigation systems.

      4.   All proposed plants and landscape materials shall be consistent with (but not uniform) and of a similar scale with existing natural landscape, neighboring landscape, and adjacent streetscape areas where appropriate. Drought tolerant plant materials are required. Landscaping improvements may also include berming, contouring, rocks, and boulders.

      5.   The size and spacing of landscape elements shall be consistent and establish a coordinated relationship to any existing or proposed streetscape plantings. The size and spacing of landscape elements shall also be of appropriate scale and character to all proposed site structures and features.

   E.   Lighting: All exterior lighting shall provide for the illumination of buildings and grounds for safety purposes, but in an aesthetic manner. All exterior lighting shall be reduced to the minimum levels necessary for safety and security purposes. The use of motion sensors and timers is encouraged.

      1.   Lighting schemes should include coordinating parking, wall, and pedestrian scaled fixtures which complement building architecture and site features.

      2.   Sensitively placed low light landscape lighting that highlights a site's desirable features is encouraged.

      3.   All off street parking area lighting shall be designed and installed to meet the following minimum requirements:

         a.   All lighting fixtures and poles shall be a decorative nature and painted a color as approved with site plan application.

         b.   The height of all lighting poles shall not exceed twenty feet (20'), measured to the top of the pole or luminary.

         c.   All light fixtures, including security lighting, shall be fully hooded or shielded and aimed and so that all direct illumination shall be confined to the property boundaries of the source. All motion sensing light fixtures shall be fully shielded and adjusted, according to the manufacturer's specifications, to turn off when detected motion ceases.

      4.   The following types of lighting shall be prohibited:

         a.   Exposed bulb fixtures;

         b.   Directional floodlights; and

         c.   Excessive or intense lighting of any kind.

      5.   Indoor lighting shall not be provided or constructed to provide lighting for any outdoor areas.

   F.   Parking And Circulation: The following measures shall be taken to ensure that needed parking areas are designed in such a way as to have a minimal impact on the built environment as possible:

      1.   Developments which generate significant increases in traffic should include an analysis of the proposed development's impact on the current and future transportation system, and methods to control such traffic.

      2.   Major internal circulation roadways that provide access from the public right of way or between buildings on the same site shall be separated from parking areas using curb and gutter and a combination of any of the following methods:

         a.   Landscaping;

         b.   Pedestrian walkways; or

         c.   Lighting.

      3.   Pedestrian walkways shall be a minimum of five feet (5') wide.

      4.   Cross access for automobiles and pedestrians to future and existing commercial developments shall be provided during initial site planning and construction, and be maintained in perpetuity.

      5.   The location and number of access points to the site, the interior circulation pattern, and the separation between pedestrians and vehicles shall be designed to maximize safety and convenience, and should be harmonious with proposed and neighboring buildings.

   G.   Pedestrian Considerations: Site layout and design shall consider with equal weight the needs of pedestrians and automobiles. Measures shall be taken to ensure adequate access and safety for pedestrians on the site.

      1.   Pedestrian access from the public right of way through the site to main entrances shall be provided. These walkways shall be constructed of different materials than the roadway or parking area, and provide for clearly defined crossings where there are points of conflict with automobiles.

      2.   Similar pedestrian access from public transit stations and stops into the site and to each building entrance shall be provided.

      3.   Differing roadway materials within parking lots shall be used directly in front of entrances to slow motorists and create a safer environment for pedestrians.

      4.   Pedestrian drop off locations shall be convenient and safe for pedestrians.

      5.   Benches, pedestrian scaled lighting, bike racks, and other pedestrian amenities shall be placed appropriately throughout the site.

   H.   Security: Security of the site and CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design) principles should be considered in any site design. Many of the goals of CPTED are supported by and accomplished through following the standards and guidelines already enumerated in this chapter. In addition to these standards and guidelines, other measures should be considered with the following four (4) overlapping CPTED principles in mind:

      1.   Territoriality is a design concept that plainly demarcates private space from semipublic and public areas. Clear territoriality in the design of a site also creates a sense of ownership wherein people will be more likely to defend and care for such spaces. Following this principle ultimately creates an environment where intruders stand out and are more easily identified.

         a.   Symbolic barriers such as landscaping or changes in paving materials or patterns can be effective in creating defined public spaces.

         b.   Spaces which are designed for active use such as plazas, outdoor seating and eating areas, benches, fountains, and playgrounds add to the sense of ownership.

      2.   Natural surveillance is a design concept directed primarily at keeping intruders under observation. Provision of natural surveillance helps create environments where there is sufficient opportunity for people engaged in their normal behavior to observe the space around them. Areas can be designed so they are more easily observed through:

         a.   Landscape designs and follow up maintenance that allows for clear, unobstructed views of accessible areas;

         b.   Walkways which are visible, well lit, and overlooked by windows from nearby buildings;

         c.   Mixed uses that engage a site at all hours;

         d.   Use of unglazed or tinted windows and doors; and

         e.   Lighting of alcoves, stairwells, and other areas which may otherwise provide concealment.

      3.   Access control is a design concept directed primarily at decreasing criminal accessibility. Provision of natural access control limits access and increases natural surveillance to restrict criminal intrusion, especially into areas where they will not be easily observed through:

         a.   Clearly marking entrances;

         b.   Restricting access to screened areas such as garbage receptacles, delivery areas, and outdoor storage areas; and

         c.   Eliminating design elements which allow access to roofs and upper levels.

      4.   Proper maintenance of landscaping, lighting treatments, and other features can facilitate the principles of CPTED.

   I.   Signs: The primary purpose of signs is to clearly identify businesses. Signs shall be integrated into the overall design of a commercial development including materials, and shall add to the quality of the built environment without contributing to visual clutter. While the approval of signs requires a separate review and approval process, their placement should be planned for during initial site planning and provide for required landscaping, lighting, and other related considerations.

   J.   Noise Impact: Site design shall include provisions and strategies for limiting noise, particularly to adjacent property. The occupants of a proposed development should be protected from noise from both outside and within the site through screening, setbacks, and building materials. Noise generating equipment shall be located and buffered to minimize potential on site and off site impacts.

   K.   Screening Walls, Fences, And Other Visual Barriers: Walls, fences, and barriers that create a continuous surface greater than twenty feet (20') in length shall be softened visually with acceptable landscaping. All walls and fences shall conform to the major architectural style of the site plan. (Ord. 2010-04, 1-26-2010; amd. Ord. 2020-09, 3-10-2020; Ord. 2022-06, 2-22-2022)

   A.   Context: All building designs shall consider surrounding or nearby buildings and developments and implement design solutions which are sensitive to those nearby buildings and developments. The review of this requirement shall be based on the following:

      1.   The buildings contribute positively to the overall character of the city and the neighborhood in which it is located;

      2.   The buildings reflect the character of surrounding development through the use of similar positive and desirable features;

      3.   The buildings demonstrate imaginative design; and

      4.   Where proposed building designs closely copy or mirror surrounding development, the buildings vary colors, materials, or architectural elements.

   B.   Entrances: All building entrances shall be clearly articulated to indicate a transition from the exterior to the interior of the building. Every main entrance shall have a special emphasis when compared to the other portions of the building. This shall be accomplished through the use of at least three (3) of the following near entrances:

      1.   A prominent architectural feature that is unique to the overall building design;

      2.   Complementary yet differing building materials or colors;

      3.   Increased use of windows or glass;

      4.   Pedestrian amenities that may include patios, porches, special paving treatments, seating areas, or awnings; or

      5.   Increased landscaping.

   C.   Facade Articulation: Buildings designed with completely flat facades and monotone color schemes shall not be permitted. All buildings shall demonstrate articulation of all facades.

      1.   Horizontal or vertical facade variations shall occur at least every thirty feet (30') or along a minimum of sixty percent (60%) of the horizontal length of buildings with facades one hundred feet (100') or greater. This shall be accomplished by using methods such as:

         a.   Variation in the surface plane that may include pop outs, bays, and recesses;

         b.   Variation in the surface pattern such as arches, banding, and paneling; or

         c.   Distinguished treatment of windows, doors, and eaves that may include molding or framing.

      2.   Buildings with facades one hundred feet (100') or greater in total length shall have at least one significant facade variation from the primary wall plane whose depth is at least five percent (5%) of the total facade length and whose width is at least twenty percent (20%) of the total facade length. There shall be no uninterrupted facades one hundred feet (100') or greater in length.

   D.   Height And Roofline: All buildings shall demonstrate an appropriate roof height that is compatible with the building's location, and vary rooflines in order to add architectural interest and avoid the appearance or sense of monotonous roofline expanses. All buildings shall:

      1.   Demonstrate appropriate roof height for the location based on zoning regulations and the height of buildings within the immediate area;

      2.   Provide roofline and parapet variations where there are long, continuous, and undisturbed rooflines fifty feet (50') or greater;

      3.   Use similar materials and colors on the back of false fronts, parapets, cornices, or other parts of the building which extend beyond the roofline or main building so that the building appears cohesive from all views; and

      4.   Provide for screening of mechanical equipment and systems that need to be mounted on the roof. Any minimal portion of these pieces of equipment that may not be fully shielded shall be painted a color which is compatible with the roofing or parapet materials.

   E.   Massing: Buildings shall have a composition which clearly relates to surrounding buildings, as well as to the overall scale of the built environment in nearby residential or commercial neighborhoods. Proper massing reduces the impact of the massive bulk created by large buildings that may not otherwise relate in scale to surrounding development. Vertical articulation, horizontal articulation, and multi-planed roof and awning designs should be used to mitigate the impact that may occur on surrounding development and the overall landscape.

   F.   Materials: High quality, long lasting materials shall be required for all buildings in order to contribute to the aesthetics of the community over the long term. Permanence in design and construction will add to the overall value and sustainability of the community.

      1.   A minimum of three (3) colors per elevation shall be required.

      2.   Color utilization should be sensitive to existing development within the vicinity and the natural landscape in which the project is situated.

   G.   Pedestrian Considerations: All buildings shall consider pedestrians as an integral part of the design. Additionally, buildings that contain more than one story or that are taller than twenty feet (20') in height shall provide a clearly articulated and more detailed base that relates to pedestrians.

   H.   Windows: The majority of windows shall relate to the scale of the person.

      1.   Windows should be at eye level when possible and provide for transparency into the building.

      2.   Where buildings are adjacent to pedestrian walkways, transparent windows shall be used to relate the scale of the building and the building's interior to pedestrians. Where transparent windows may not be desirable, tinted windows, false windows, or glass block shall be used.

      3.   Window awnings are an effective way to add detail and variation to a building, emphasize pedestrian scale windows, and create an exciting and inviting environment. When placing awnings:

         a.   Quality materials shall be used which are durable and are able to withstand extremes in the weather;

         b.   Colors should be complementary to the color of the building on which the awning is located; and

         c.   Styles should be compatible with the architectural features and overall architecture of the building on which the awning is located.

   I.   Architectural Details: Surface details, ornaments, and other building elements that enrich the character of a building shall be provided. Attention to detail, including all building and architectural design elements shall be required. The following architectural details are desirable and encouraged:

      1.   Stonework;

      2.   Exposed beams and columns;

      3.   Cornices, moldings, bands, pop outs, decorative vents, cast or sculpted features;

      4.   Covered walkways, breezeways, bays, and balconies;

      5.   Courtyards and patios;

      6.   Wide roof overhangs; and

      7.   Accessories such as art features, benches, pots, lamps, artwork, and sculptures.

   J.   Building Additions: All additions to existing buildings shall incorporate the predominant architectural features, materials, and colors of the existing building. (Ord. 2010-04, 1-26-2010; amd. Ord. 2020-09, 3-10-2020; Ord. 2024-17, 10-18-2024)

   A.   Context: New development shall consider the site design and building placement of surrounding development in order to create a site which relates to its surroundings and adds positively to the overall built environment in the site area. Additionally all developments shall consider natural features, such as view corridors, water channels, topography, and vegetation, as integral features to be preserved, enhanced, and which will contribute to the site.

   B.   Building Placement: All building(s) shall be designed to locate the main front facade facing the principal street to which it has frontage or oriented towards the primary access for vehicular and pedestrian access for the property.

   C.   Vehicular Circulation:

      1.   Developments which generate significant increases in traffic shall include an analysis of the proposed development's impact on the current and future transportation system, and methods to control such traffic.

      2.   Primary entry drives for automobiles, especially visitors, shall be enhanced with: ornamental landscaping, low-level decorative walls, monument-type signs, or decorative paving to emphasize site access locations.

      3.   Uses where trucks are anticipated, such as distribution centers, shall be planned to accommodate safety and maximize visibility for both truck maneuvering and other traffic.

      4.   The design and location of loading areas and dock facilities shall be designed to minimize the interaction between trucks and other automobiles. Access to loading and delivery areas should be separated from parking areas.

      5.   The design and location of loading facilities shall take into consideration the specific dimensions required for the maneuvering of large trucks and trailers into and out of loading position at docks or in stalls and driveways.

      6.   The location and number of access points to the site, the interior circulation pattern, and the separation between pedestrians and vehicles shall be designed to maximize safety and convenience, and should be harmonious with proposed and neighboring buildings.

      7.   Major internal circulation roadways that provide access from the public right-of-way or between buildings on the same site shall be separated from parking areas using curb and gutter and a combination of any of the following methods:

         a.   Landscaping;

         b.   Pedestrian walkways; or

         c.   Lighting.

   D.   Parking Location:

      1.   Parking lots should not be the dominant visual element at the front of the site. Expansive paved areas located between the street and the building are prohibited.

      2.   Large parking areas (over one hundred (100) spaces) shall be divided into smaller multiple lots and provided with trees located throughout the parking area to reduce the visual impact

      3.   Landscaping of parking areas shall comply with all other applicable standards of this title.

      4.   Visitor parking spaces should be located to produce the shortest route of travel to a building entrance.

      5.   Convenient public access and short-term visitor parking shall be provided at the main entrance of the building

   E.   Pedestrian Considerations: Site layout and design shall consider with equal weight the needs of pedestrians and automobiles. Measures shall be taken to ensure adequate access and safety for pedestrians on the site.

      1.   Pedestrian access from the public right-of-way through the site to main entrances shall be provided. These walkways shall be constructed of different materials than the roadway or parking area, and provide for clearly defined crossings where there are points of conflict with automobiles.

      2.   Pedestrian walkways shall be a minimum of five feet (5') wide.

      3.   Similar pedestrian access from public transit stations and stops into the site and to main building entrance shall be provided.

      4.   Differing roadway materials within parking lots shall be used directly in front of entrances to slow motorists and create a safer environment for pedestrians.

      5.   Parking lot pedestrian walkways shall provide safe, convenient, and well-defined access between parking areas and the public sidewalk and the main public access to the building.

      6.   Parking lot pedestrian circulation shall be clearly delineated and separate from vehicle circulation. The use of landscaping, walkways, or decorative paving to delineate pedestrian circulation must be used.

   F.   Landscaping: Landscaping shall be used as a tool to enhance and beautify the site.

      1.   Landscape design should follow an overall concept and link various site components together.

      2.   Landscaped areas should incorporate a three (3) tiered planting system:

         a.   Grasses, ground covers, or flowers;

         b.   Shrubs or vines; and

         c.   Trees.

      3.   The landscape design shall use a variety of trees, especially in parking areas and pedestrian open space areas.

      4.   More intense landscaping and special landscape features shall be provided at major focal points, such as entries and pedestrian gathering areas.

      5.   The front, public portions of buildings shall be separated from parking areas by landscaping and pedestrian walkways.

      6.   Drought resistant shrubs and trees are required in conjunction with efficient low water use smart automatic irrigation systems.

      7.   All proposed plants and landscape materials shall be consistent with (but not uniform) and of a similar scale with existing natural landscape, neighboring landscape, and adjacent streetscape areas where appropriate. Landscaping improvements may also include berming, contouring, rocks, and boulders.

      8.   Landscaping shall be integrated into the design, placement, and enhancement of pedestrian plazas, sitting areas, walkways, flagpoles, and signs. This may be accomplished by giving special attention to any plantings immediately adjacent to pedestrian areas and walkways. This landscaping shall not overgrow or impede pedestrian areas, but rather allow for detail and aesthetics more amenable to pedestrians.

      9.   Outdoor amenities shall be provided for every development on a site with a combined building floor area totaling twenty thousand (20,000) square feet or greater. Outdoor amenities are designed for employees and create plazas or other focal points that are inviting to site patrons. These amenities shall be located near entrances or other focal points within the development where they will be convenient and comfortable for users. Outdoor amenities may include the following:

         a.   Seating areas including patios, decks, porches, benches, tables, and pergolas;

         b.   Water features;

         c.   Garden areas designed for active use.

   G.   Site Lighting: All exterior lighting shall provide for the illumination of buildings and grounds for safety purposes, but in an aesthetic manner. All exterior lighting shall be reduced to the minimum levels necessary for safety and security purposes. The use of motion sensors and timers is encouraged.

      1.   Lighting schemes should include coordinating parking, wall, and pedestrian scaled fixtures which complement building architecture and site features.

      2.   Sensitively placed low light landscape lighting that highlights a site's desirable features is encouraged and should be provided where appropriate.

      3.   All off-street parking area lighting shall be designed and installed to meet the following minimum requirements:

         a.   The height of all lighting poles shall not exceed twenty feet (20'), measured to the top of the pole or luminary.

         b.   All light fixtures, including security lighting, shall be fully hooded or shielded and aimed so that all direct illumination shall be confined to the property boundaries of the source. All motion sensing light fixtures shall be fully shielded and adjusted, according to the manufacturer's specifications, to turn off when detected motion ceases.

      4.   The following types of lighting shall be prohibited:

         a.   Exposed bulb fixtures;

         b.   Directional floodlights; and

         c.   Excessive or intense lighting of any kind.

   H.   Security: Security of the site and CPTED (crime prevention through environmental design) principles should be considered in any site design. Many of the goals of CPTED are supported by and accomplished through following the standards and guidelines already enumerated in this chapter. In addition to these standards and guidelines, other measures should be considered with the following four (4) overlapping CPTED principles in mind:

      1.   Territoriality is a design concept that plainly demarcates private space from semi-public and public areas. Clear territoriality in the design of a site also creates a sense of ownership wherein people will be more likely to defend and care for such spaces. Following this principle ultimately creates an environment where intruders stand out and are more easily identified.

         a.   Symbolic barriers such as landscaping or changes in paving materials or patterns can be effective in creating defined public spaces.

         b.   Spaces which are designed for active use such as plazas, outdoor seating and eating areas, benches, fountains, and playgrounds add to the sense of ownership.

      2.   Natural surveillance is a design concept directed primarily at keeping intruders under observation. Provision of natural surveillance helps create environments where there is sufficient opportunity for people engaged in their normal behavior to observe the space around them. Areas can be designed so they are more easily observed through:

         a.   Landscape designs and follow up maintenance that allows for clear, unobstructed views of accessible areas;

         b.   Walkways which are visible, well lit, and overlooked by windows from nearby buildings;

         c.   Mixed uses that engage a site at all hours;

         d.   Use of unglazed or tinted windows and doors; and

         e.   Lighting of alcoves, stairwells, and other areas which may otherwise provide concealment.

      3.   Access control is a design concept directed primarily at decreasing criminal accessibility. Provision of natural access control limits access and increases natural surveillance to restrict criminal intrusion, especially into areas where they will not be easily observed through:

         a.   Clearly marking entrances;

         b.   Restricting access to screened areas such as garbage receptacles, delivery areas, and outdoor storage areas; and

         c.   Eliminating design elements which allow access to roofs and upper levels.

      4.   Proper maintenance of landscaping, lighting treatments, and other features can facilitate the principles of CPTED.

   I.   Miscellaneous Site Considerations: The following considerations shall be made during initial site planning:

      1.   Outdoor Refuse And Garbage Collection Containers: Outdoor refuse and garbage collection containers shall be screened from view of a public right-of-way using the same materials as the building or approved masonry fencing. Additionally, enclosures should be surrounded by landscaping to further soften their visual impact. The general public shall be restricted from accessing such areas.

      2.   Generators; Large Auxiliary Equipment: Generators and other large auxiliary equipment shall be placed at locations where they will be least intrusive in terms of noise, appearance, and odors, particularly for occupants of neighboring properties. Site plans should also consider public utilities equipment placement and communicate early in the planning process with the various public utility providers about potential utility equipment placement on the site.

         a.   Equipment should be kept low to the ground.

         b.   Exhaust systems shall not protrude above the equipment.

         c.   Walls, landscaping, and other screening shall be used to screen equipment.

      3.   Chainlink Fencing: Chainlink fencing shall not be permitted adjacent to a public right-of-way, in a required front yard, or in an area that is visible from a public right-of-way.

      4.   Utilities: All utility distribution facilities, including electrical, telecommunications, and natural gas services shall be placed underground. Transformers, terminal boxes, meter cabinets, pedestals and other necessary appurtenances to the underground facilities may be placed above-ground where necessary.

      5.   Noise Impact: Site design shall include provisions and strategies for limiting noise, particularly to adjacent property. The occupants of a proposed development should be protected from noise from both outside and within the site through screening, setbacks, and building materials. Noise generating equipment shall be located and buffered to minimize potential on site and off-site impacts.

      6.   Screening Walls, Fences, And Other Visual Barriers: Walls, fences, and barriers that create a continuous surface greater than twenty feet (20') in length shall be softened visually with acceptable landscaping. All walls and fences shall conform to the major architectural style of the site plan. (Ord. 2020-09, 3-10-2020; amd. Ord. 2022-06, 2-22-2022)

   A.   Context: All building designs shall consider surrounding or nearby buildings and developments and implement design solutions which are sensitive to those nearby buildings and developments.

   B.   Architectural Form and Detail:

      1.   If adjacent to a residential zoning district, an additional building setback of ten feet (10') shall be provided adjacent to the residential use to reduce the visual impact of large-scale industrial buildings. The additional ten feet (10') shall be landscaped with trees to provide buffering and shall not include parking, vehicular access, or storage areas for equipment or mechanical systems. Those uses may exist beyond the ten foot (10') buffer.

      2.   The mass and scale of large, box-like industrial buildings shall be reduced through the incorporation of varying building heights, setbacks, and or building projections along the front or primary street sides of building facades.

      3.   Facades of large buildings visible from a street hall include:

         a.   Architectural features such as reveals;

         b.   Windows and openings; and

         c.   Changes in color and either texture or material to add interest to the building elevation and reduce its visual mass.

      4.   Primary building entries shall be readily identifiable and well defined through the use of projections, recesses, columns, roof structures, or other design elements. The primary building entries shall be clearly articulated to indicate a transition from the exterior to the interior of the building. Every main entrance shall have a special emphasis when compared to the other portions of the building. This shall be accomplished through the use of at least three (3) of the following near entrances:

         a.   A prominent architectural feature that is unique to the overall building design;

         b.   Complementary yet differing building materials or colors;

         c.   Increased use of windows or glass;

         d.   Pedestrian amenities that may include patios, porches, special paving treatments, seating areas, or awnings; or

         e.   Increased landscaping.

   C.   Color And Materials:

      1.   A comprehensive material and color scheme shall be developed for each site. Material and color variations in multi-building complexes must be complementary and compatible among buildings.

      2.   A minimum of three (3) colors per elevation shall be required.

      3.   Color utilization should be sensitive to existing development within the vicinity and the natural landscape in which the project is situated.

      4.   Materials that contribute to the aesthetics of the community over the long term shall be required for all buildings. Permanence in design and construction will add to the overall value and sustainability of the community.

      5.   Primary Materials: Each exterior wall facade shall include two (2) of the following primary materials: brick, tilt-up concrete, architectural block, stone, or glass. Unfinished gray concrete block is not permitted. The use of non-insulated metal siding exclusively on any wall is prohibited. All finish material shall be durable to the effects of weather and soiling.

      6.   Expanses of primary materials, or other uniform material shall be broken up with pop outs, recesses, awnings, staggered facades, metal structures, glass, change in material or texture, or the addition of other designed three (3) dimensional architectural features, every one hundred feet (100').

      7.   The ends or corners of buildings shall be articulated with at least two (2) prominent architectural feature such as a change in primary material (i.e. change from tilt-up concrete panel to brick), increased roof projection of parapet, increased transparency; or

      8.   Bright, contrasting colors should be used for small areas of building and for accents only.

      9.   Design and colors of wall signs should be compatible with the main buildings on the site.

      10.   Materials, design, and colors of monument signs shall be compatible with the main buildings on the site.

   D.   Accessory Buildings:

      1.   The design of accessory buildings (e.g., security kiosks, maintenance buildings, and outdoor equipment enclosures) shall be incorporated into and be compatible with the overall design of the project and the main buildings on the site.

      2.   Temporary buildings shall not to be located where they will be visible from adjoining public streets.

      3.   Modular buildings shall be skirted with material and color that is compatible with the modular unit and the main buildings on the site. All temporary and modular structures shall comply with all other applicable standards of this title for use and duration of use.

   E.   Building Additions:

      1.   All additions to existing buildings shall incorporate the predominant architectural features, materials, and colors of the existing building. (Ord. 2020-09, 3-10-2020; amd. Ord. 2024-17, 10-18-2024)