Columbus City Zoning Code

This Article provides standards that are supplemental to the regulations for each zoning district in Article E (District Regulations) and are specific to particular aspects of development, including, but not limited to, building massing and articulation, building frontages, and the development of large sites. If there is a conflict between any standards, the provisions of Article F (Supplemental District Standards) will supersede the provisions of Article E (District Regulations).

This Chapter sets forth standards that supplement the zoning district and frontage type standards to further refine the intended building form and physical character of new and adapted buildings.

1. The standards of this Chapter apply to all new development adjacent to the public realm and to facades where 70 percent or more of the surface area of a street-facing facade is modified. Modifications include changes to the exterior of a building including additions or demolition, except as applied to routine maintenance and in-kind replacement of materials, facade renovations, or exterior renovations. Where a district standard is different from the standard(s) in this Chapter, the standards of this Chapter prevail.

2. The standards of this Chapter do not apply to parcels with 2024 Zoning Code district designations falling under the review authority of the German Village Commission, Historic Resources Commission, Italian Village Commission, and Victorian Village Commission as outlined in Title 31.

3. The standards of this Chapter do not apply to parcels with 2024 Zoning Code designations falling under the review authority of the East Franklinton Review Board as outlined in Chapter 3323 (East Franklinton District) and the University Impact District Review Board as outlined in Chapter 3325 (University District Zoning Overlay).

4. The applicability of specific standards are based on building size as described in Table F.20.020.A (Applicability).

Table F.20.020.A: Applicability

Key:

●= Standards apply

-- = Standards do not apply

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

A. Intent

A module is a portion of a building facade that is designed to read as a discrete facade. When long buildings present a variety of facades along the public realm, modules help to ensure a pedestrian-oriented and human-scaled environment.

B. Applicability

Building facades within a facade zone are required to be organized into modules pursuant to F.20.030.C.

¹ Module length is allowed up to 160' if vertical facade articulation elements are applied per the requirements of Division C (Module Standards).

Figure F.20.030.1 Modules

Diagram: A 3D massing view of an L-shaped multi-story building. Dimension arrows along the facades show the lengths of the building and of the modules inside it, and an arrow between two roof blocks shows adjacent modules.

Diagram labels:

• (A) Building > 80' and ≤ 160'
• (B) Building > 160'
• (C) Module within a building
• (D) Adjacent modules

C. Module Standards

Each module is required to differentiate from adjacent module(s) with at least one of the following features.

(A) Major Wall Plane Shift

1. Wall plane to shift (i.e. project or recess) from the adjacent facade: 2 feet min.

2. Length of module wall plane projection or recession: Entire Module length. Refer to Division F.20.030.B.

3. A wall plane is required to extend vertically throughout the module's base, middle, and top.

Diagram: An elevation of a four-story facade with a shaded vertical band marking where the wall plane shifts, and a plan section below showing Module 1 and Module 2 with the wall of Module 2 set back from Module 1. Labels: Elevation, Plan Section, Module 1, Module 2, (A).

(B) Minor Projection or Recession

1. Depth of projection or recession from the adjacent facade: 2 feet min.

2. Width of projection or recession: 6 feet min.; 12 feet max.

3. A projection or recession may be located at the edge of a module or between modules.

4. A recession is required to extend vertically through the module's middle and top; it is allowed to extend through the base.

5. A projection is required to extend vertically through the module's middle; it is allowed to extend through the top and/or base.

Diagram: An elevation of a facade with two narrow shaded vertical bands, and a plan section below showing a small recess between Module 1 and Module 2 and a small projection at the edge of Module 3. Labels: Elevation, Plan Section, Module 1, Module 2, Module 3, (B).

(C) Upper Floor(s) Stepback

1. Stepback from facade plane of main body: 10 feet deep min.

2. Length of stepback: 20 feet min.

3. When there is an upper-floor stepback, the story directly below the stepback must then be required to provide a top per the requirements of Section F.20.040 (Base, Middle, and Top Design).

Diagram: An elevation of a four-story facade where the upper floor on the right side is stepped back, and a plan section below showing Module 2 set back from Module 1 at the upper floor. Labels: Elevation, Plan Section, Module 1, Module 2, (C).

(D) Vertical Facade Articulation Elements

1. Per Division F.20.030.B, vertical facade articulation elements are allowed on facades up to 160'. Additional facade length beyond 160' must use (A) to (C) (above).

2. Projection or recession of vertical facade articulation element: 4 inches min.

3. A vertical facade articulation element may be located at the edge of a module or between modules. Width of vertical element: 6 inches min; 6 feet max.

4. A vertical facade articulation element is required to extend vertically through the module's middle; it is allowed to extend through the top and/or base.

5. Spacing intervals for vertical facade articulation elements along entire building facade: 15 feet min.; 35 feet max. Intervals must be measured from centerline to centerline of vertical facade element.

Diagram: An elevation of a facade with thin vertical articulation elements (D) marked between window groups, and a plan section below showing the same elements along the wall with five intervals between them, measured across the overall module length. Labels: Elevation, Plan Section, Interval (x5), Overall Module Length, (D).

Each module is required to differentiate from adjacent module(s) through at least two of the following features:

• Primary wall finish material
• (A) Fenestration type, amount, or pattern on upper floors
• (B) Presence of bay windows
• (C) Incorporating one or more frontage types not included in the adjacent module
• Utilizing different elements to define base/middle/top, as described in Section F.20.040 (Base, Middle, and Top Design), including cornice treatments, as applicable
• (D) Eave/parapet height difference of 8 inches minimum
• (E) Roof type (e.g., flat vs. sloped) or min. four degree difference in slope

Diagram: A 3D view of a multi-story building facade split into two modules, with callouts showing the differentiating features: fenestration (A), bay windows (B), frontage types (C), parapet height difference (D), and roof type difference (E). Dimension lines show Module 1 (20' - 80'), Module 2 (≤ 80'), and the Overall Building Facade (> 80' - 160').

Photo: Street view of two mid-rise residential buildings with a coffee shop on the ground floor, balconies on upper floors, and trees along the sidewalk.

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

A. Intent

The intent of base, middle, and top design is to define the horizontal articulation of a building in order to affect a building's perceived height and massing and improve its visual relationship to the public realm.

B. Applicability

The standards of this Section apply to new buildings that are more than 40 feet wide and at least three stories.

C. Base, Middle, and Top Design Standards

1. New facades within a facade zone must be designed to visually express a base, middle, and top.

2. Boundaries between the base, middle, and top must be articulated by a cornice, projecting profile/string course, expression line (horizontal molding or projections), or other horizontal element that differentiates one portion of a facade from the portion above or below.

3. Elements defining the base, middle, and top must be consistent across the length of the building or module.

Top

1. The top is required to include at least one of the following: a. Parapet with a cap, coping, or railing if the roof will be occupied; b. Pitched or mansard roof with projecting eave and/or rake; or c. Cornice (allowed to be used in combination with a parapet or pitched roof).

2. The top is allowed to include the uppermost story or stories as long as a cornice or projecting profile/string course is expressed at the floor level of the uppermost story.

3. Upper stories that are stepped back at least 10 feet from the main facade do not constitute the top; the portion of the facade that is not stepped back must include its own top pursuant to this Section.

Middle

1. The middle must include the building's primary finish material.

2. For buildings or modules with four or more stories, the middle must comprise at least half of the building's stories, not counting any half story or basement.

Base

1. The base must comprise the lowest story or stories of the building or module and be defined from the middle by a material change and/or an expression line.

Figure F.20.040.1 Base, Middle, and Top Design

Diagram: An elevation of a four-story building with two connected sections. The lowest story is outlined and labeled as the base. The stories above it are labeled as the middle. A pitched roof and a horizontal cornice are labeled as the top. On the right section, the upper story is stepped back more than 10 feet and has its own top below it.

Diagram labels:

• Top
• Upper Story Stepped Back >10'
• Top
• Middle
• Base

A. Intent

I he intent of these standards is to avoid untreated blank walls adjacent to the public realm to enhance the character and quality of public streetscapes along the ground level.

B. Applicability

The standards in this Section apply to the ground floor of all buildings in all districts with untreated blank walls adjacent to a public realm.

Blank wall means a ground-floor wall, or portion of ground floor wall, where no transparent materials or entrances are provided for a continuous width of at least 16 feet and a height of at least 10 feet.

16 Feet or More

C. Blank Wall Treatment Standards

1. At least 50 percent of the area of the blank wall must be covered by one or more of the following:

a. Mural and/or other art installation.

b. Protruding/recessed brickwork and tile.

c. Living plant material, including, but not limited to, green/living wall, and/or plants of sufficient height to screen the blank wall that are rooted in the ground or in planters.

2. The following treatments may be used in combination with any of the above treatments:

a. Benches or other outdoor seating. Benches may be freestanding or integrated into the articulation of the facade.

b. Bicycle racks. May be freestanding or integrated into the articulation of the facade.

A mural on a blank wall provides visual interest along the sidewalk on a side street.

Surface texture with small projections of tile detailing on blank wall provides visual interest along the sidewalk at a front street.

A living plant wall on blank wall provides visual interest along the sidewalk on a side street.

This Chapter provides the standards for building frontage types ("frontage types"). Building frontage types are the components of a building that provide the transition and interface between the public realm (street, sidewalk, and public open space) and building entries.

1. The standards of this Chapter apply to all new development and to facades where 70 percent or more of the surface area of a street-facing facade is modified. Modifications include changes to the exterior of a building including additions or demolition, except as applied to routine maintenance and in-kind replacement of materials, facade renovations, or exterior renovations. Where a district standard is different from the standard(s) in this Chapter, the standards of this Chapter prevail.

2. The standards of this Chapter do not apply to parcels with 2024 Zoning Code district designations falling under the review authority of the German Village Commission, Historic Resources Commission, Italian Village Commission, and Victorian Village Commission as outlined in Title 31.

3. The standards of this Chapter do not apply to parcels with 2024 Zoning Code designations falling under the review authority of the East Franklinton Review Board as outlined in Chapter 3323 (East Franklinton District) and the University Impact District Review Board as outlined in Chapter 3325 (University District Zoning Overlay).

A. The names of the building frontage types indicate their particular configuration or function and are not intended to limit uses within the associated building. For example, a Porch Frontage Type is allowed to be used by non-residential uses, including, but not limited to, a restaurant or office, as allowed by the district.

B. The description provided in Division A of each frontage type serves as the definition of the type.

C. Each principal building is required to include a building frontage type at all building or unit entries, along the front street, side street, or adjacent public open space. Service entries are exempt from this requirement.

D. Access to the required ground floor space, pursuant to Division D of the zoning district, is provided through the allowed building frontage types of this Chapter.

E. Each building is allowed to have multiple building frontage types.

F. Each building frontage type is required to be located on a building facade pursuant to Division C of the zoning district.

G. Building frontage types are allowed to encroach into the minimum front and side street setbacks pursuant to Division E of the zoning district.

H. Frontage types, including Gallery and Arcade, may not extend into the ROW unless otherwise approved by the Department of Public Service.

1. Backlit awnings are not allowed.

J. Chain link fencing is prohibited.

Table F.30.040.A: Frontage Types Overview

Section F.30.050 (Shopfront)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the building facade at or near the street parcel line, with a glazed storefront and an at-grade entrance from the sidewalk, and street trees at the curb.

The main facade of the building is at or near the front/side street parcel line with an at-grade entrance from the sidewalk. This type is intended for service, retail, or restaurant use and includes substantial glazing between the Shopfront base and the ground floor ceiling.

Section F.30.060 (Gallery)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the main facade set back from the parcel line, with a covered structure supported by columns over the sidewalk area in front of it.

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line and an at-grade covered structure, articulated with colonnade or arches, covers an adjacent pedestrian area. The Gallery is allowed to be up to two stories. When used in non-residential settings, the Shopfront type is included; when used in residential settings, the Common Entry is included. Galleries require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

Section F.30.070 (Arcade)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the ground floor facade recessed back from the parcel line to form a covered passage, with the upper floor extending out over it to the setback line.

The ground floor facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line to form a covered passageway. The surrounding structure is allowed to support occupiable space up to the setback line on upper floor(s). When used in non-residential settings, the recessed ground floor facade incorporates the Shopfront type; when used in residential settings, a Common Entry is included. Arcades require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

Frontage Type Standards F.30.040: Frontage Types Overview

Table F.30.040.A: Frontage Types Overview

Section F.30.080 (Common Entry)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade near the parcel line with a small recessed entry notch in the main facade and street trees at the curb.

The main facade of the building is near the front parcel line, with a recessed or covered entryway within the main facade, providing a defined transition between the sidewalk and the interior. The entryway leads to a lobby or foyer that provides interior access to units or offices. Common Entries require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

Section F.30.090 (Stoop)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade near the parcel line with a short flight of steps leading up to a raised entry.

The main facade of the building is near the front parcel line with steps to an elevated ground floor entry. The Stoop is elevated above the sidewalk to provide privacy along the sidewalk-facing rooms. Stairs or ramps from the Stoop lead directly to the sidewalk or are parallel to the sidewalk.

Section F.30.100 (Dooryard)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade set back from the parcel line, with a low wall or fence along the parcel line enclosing a small yard in front of the entrance.

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line, which is defined by a low wall, hedge, or fence, creating a small private area between the sidewalk and the facade. Each Dooryard is separated from adjacent Dooryards by a low wall, hedge, or fence. The Dooryard is allowed to be raised or at grade.

Section F.30.110 (Courtyard)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade at the parcel line with a portion of the building set back to form an open court with trees.

The main facade of the building is at or near the front parcel line and a portion is set back into the parcel to create an entry court or shared garden space for housing, or an additional shopping or restaurant seating area within retail and service areas. The following additional frontage types can be combined with the Courtyard: Stoop, Shopfront, Gallery, or Arcade.

Section F.30.120 (Porch)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade set back from the parcel line with a covered porch projecting toward the street.

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line with a covered structure that may or may not encroach into the minimum setback. A Porch may also be located in the side setback with its narrow side facing the street. The Porch is allowed to be one or two stories, is open on at least two sides, with occupiable space located behind the building setback line.

Section F.30.130 (Lightwell)

Diagram: A section and plan sketch showing the facade set back from the parcel line with a sunken area in front of it, reached by a small stair.

The main facade of the building is setback from the front parcel line by a sunken Lightwell and may also include an elevated terrace or stoop. This type buffers residential, retail, or services uses from urban sidewalks.

Photo captions: Example of a Shopfront (three photos: a corner storefront with outdoor dining, a boutique window with a recessed door, and a glazed shop entry with a vine-covered wall).

A. Description

The main facade of the building is at or near the front/side street parcel line with an at-grade entrance from the sidewalk. This type is intended for service, retail, or restaurant use and includes substantial glazing between the Shopfront base and the ground floor ceiling.

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

Diagram (left): A section view of the storefront. The glass sits on a low base at the bottom, and the recess depth at the top is measured back from the ROW/setback line. A tree stands at the street.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the storefront wall with a gap between glazing and door, measured as a dimension with arrows, next to the ROW/Setback line and the street with trees.

Diagram labels:

• (A) distance between glazing and/or door(s)
• (B) shopfront base/bulkhead height
• (C) recession and/or cover depth
• ROW/Setback
• Street

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Required Elements

C. Additional Requirements

Entry doors must be recessed and/or an awning or canopy provided to offer shelter from the elements.

Awnings that encroach into the ROW require the approval of the Department of Public Service.

Photo captions: Example of a Gallery (three photos: a two-story building with green awnings over a ground-floor arcade, a two-story brick building with an upper balcony supported on posts, and a covered sidewalk area with outdoor seating). Source: Google Street View.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line and an at-grade covered structure, articulated with colonnade or arches, covers an adjacent pedestrian area. The Gallery is allowed to be up to two stories. When used in non-residential settings, the Shopfront type is included; when used in residential settings, the Common Entry is included. Galleries require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

Frontage Type Standards F.30.060: Gallery

Diagram (left): A section view of the building facade set back from the ROW, with a covered gallery structure out front that rises up to the floor line above. Dimension arrows show the clear depth, the clear height, and the overall height. A dashed box at the facade marks the design requirement for the shopfront/common entry.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the building facade, the gallery columns at the ROW line, and the sidewalk and street beyond. Dimension arrows show the depth between facade and columns, and the spacing between columns.

Diagram labels:

• Building Facade
• ROW
• Sidewalk
• Street
• (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Required Elements

¹ Galleries are required to have a consistent depth across the entire front street and/or side street facade. ² May include street furniture, including, but not limited to, planters, benches, or low walls (48' max height), but may not encroach into the minimum clear depth.

C. Additional Requirements

Galleries must be designed pursuant to Section F.30.050 (Shopfront) and/or Section F.30.080 (Common Entry). (E)

Galleries require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

Photo captions: Example of an Arcade (three photos: a brick corner building with arched openings at street level, a brick multi-story building with arched ground-floor bays, and a covered walkway with columns and shops).

A. Description

The ground floor facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line to form a covered passageway. The surrounding structure is allowed to support occupiable space up to the setback line on upper floor(s). When used in non-residential settings, the recessed ground floor facade incorporates the Shopfront type; when used in residential settings, a Common Entry is included. Arcades require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

Diagram (left): A section view of an arcade. The upper floor extends out over the covered ground-floor passage, and the ground floor facade is recessed. Dimension arrows show the clear depth, the clear height, and the overall height, and a post at the outer edge of the passage is marked.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the recessed facade, the column line at the ROW, and the sidewalk and street beyond. Dimension arrows show the depth and the column spacing.

Diagram labels:

• ROW
• Sidewalk
• Street
• (A), (B), (C), (D), (E)

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Required Elements

¹ May include street furniture, including, but not limited to, planters, benches, or low walls (48' max height), but may not encroach into the minimum clear depth.

C. Additional Requirements

Arcades must be designed pursuant to Section F.30.050 (Shopfront) and/or Section F.30.080 (Common Entry). (E)

Arcades require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

Photo captions: Example of a Common Entry (three photos: a glass-canopied entry in a brick and stone building, a recessed apartment entry with a sign above the door, and a brick residential multiplex with a central entry). Third photo caption: Example of a Common Entry into a Residential Multiplex.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is near the front parcel line, with a recessed or covered entryway within the main facade, providing a defined transition between the sidewalk and the interior. The entryway leads to a lobby or foyer that provides interior access to units or offices. Common Entries require the Department of Public Service approval of any encroachment into the ROW.

General Note: Photos on this page are illustrative, not regulatory.

Diagram (left): A section view of the building facade near the ROW line, with a tree at the street. The entry is recessed into the facade, with an overhead cover above it. Dimension arrows show the recession/cover depth (C) at the top, the depth of the recessed entry (D) at the door, and the finish level above the sidewalk (B) at the bottom.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the building wall with a notch for the recessed entry next to the ROW line, the sidewalk and the street. Dimension arrows show the width of the door/window frame (A) along the wall, and the depth of the recessed entry (D).

Diagram labels:

• (A), (B), (C), (D) markers
• ROW
• Street

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Size

C. Miscellaneous

Entry doors must be recessed and/or provide an awning or canopy to offer shelter from the elements.

Awnings that encroach into the ROW require the approval of the Department of Public Service.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is near the front parcel line with steps to an elevated ground floor entry. The Stoop is elevated above the sidewalk to provide privacy along the sidewalk-facing rooms. Stairs or ramps from the Stoop lead directly to the sidewalk or are parallel to the sidewalk.

Diagram (left): A section view of the building facade near the ROW line, with a tree at the street. A short flight of steps rises from the sidewalk level to a raised entry platform at the door, with an overhead cover above it. Dimension arrows show the finish level above the sidewalk (C) at the platform, the depth of the platform (B) measured out from the facade, and the recession/cover depth (D) at the top.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the building wall, the stoop projecting from it toward the ROW line, and the sidewalk and street with trees beyond. Dimension arrows show the clear width of the stoop (A) along the wall and the clear depth (B) out from the wall, and a marker D shows the recession/cover depth at the door.

Diagram labels:

• (A), (B), (C), (D) markers
• ROW
• Street

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Required Elements

C. Additional Requirements

Entry doors must be covered or recessed to offer shelter from the elements.

When located within the front or side street facade zone, Stoops must face the street or open space

A. Description

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line, which is defined by a low wall, hedge, or fence, creating a small private area between the sidewalk and the facade. Each Dooryard is separated from adjacent Dooryards by a low wall, hedge, or fence. The Dooryard is allowed to be raised or at grade.

Key

--- ROW/Parcel Line

---- Setback Line

B. Required Elements

C. Additional Requirements

Each Dooryard must provide access to only one ground floor entry.

Entry doors must be covered or recessed to offer shelter from the elements.

For non-residential uses, the Shopfront type is required in combination with the Dooryard.

A low wall, hedge, or fence is required at the sidewalk and between adjacent Dooryards.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is at or near the front parcel line and a portion is set back into the parcel to create an entry court or shared garden space for housing, or an additional shopping or restaurant seating area within retail and service areas. The following additional frontage types can be combined with the Courtyard: Stoop, Shopfront, Gallery, or Arcade.

Diagram (left): A section view of a building with a courtyard in front of it. The building has two stories of windows above a recessed ground floor. A small awning or cover projects from the ground floor wall into the courtyard. A tree stands at the street. Dimension arrows show the recession/cover depth (C) at the awning and the clear depth (B) from the building facade to the ROW line.

Diagram (right): A plan view showing the building wall with an open court cut into it, next to the ROW line, the sidewalk and the street with trees. A vertical dimension arrow shows the clear width of the courtyard (A) along the street, a horizontal arrow shows the clear depth (B), and a marker D shows the recession/cover depth at the entry.

Diagram labels:

• (A), (B), (C), (D) markers
• ROW
• Street

Key

• ROW/Parcel Line (dash-dot line)
• Setback Line (dashed line)

B. Required Elements

The Courtyard Frontage Type may count towards required facade zone standards of Division C of the zoning district.

C. Additional Requirements

Courtyards are allowed to be utilized to group several entries at a common elevation pursuant to the districts’ ground floor finish level standards.

The Courtyard is open to the sky except for allowed encroachments (awnings, Stoops, Porches, terraces).

Entry doors must be recessed and/or provide an awning or canopy to provide shelter from the elements.

The Courtyard may include a fence, wall, or hedge along the front parcel line, which, if included, is required a fence or wall is required to have a maximum height of 48 inches.

A Courtyard may be shaped with three building facades or located at a corner and shaped with only two building facades.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is set back from the front parcel line with a covered structure that may or may not encroach into the minimum setback. A Porch may also be located in the side setback with its narrow side facing the street. The Porch is allowed to be one or two stories, is open on at least two sides, with occupiable space located behind the building setback line

Key

ROW/Parcel Line --- Setback Line

B. Required Elements

C. Additional Requirements

A Porch must have a roof and be open on at least two sides.

Pedestrian access must be provided at either the front or the end side of the Porch.

A. Description

The main facade of the building is setback from the front parcel line by a sunken Lightwell and may also include an elevated terrace or stoop. This type buffers residential, retail, or services uses from urban sidewalks.

ROW/Parcel Line

B. Required Elements

C. Additional Requirements

The minimum ground floor height required by Division D of the base zoning district applies to the first full story above grade.

The intent of this Section is to establish site design standards that guide the development of large development sites into a walkable pattern of development including new streets and blocks, pedestrian-oriented frontages, and/or public open spaces.

A. These standards are intended for application within Mixed-Use Zoning Districts, including Urban General 1 (UGN-1), Urban General 2 (UGN-2), Urban Center (UCT), Urban Core (UCR), Community Activity Center (CAC), and Regional Activity Center (RAC).

B. These standards apply to development sites meeting the following size criteria:

1. For development sites that have a continuous street frontage greater than 300 feet but are less than 10 acres in total size, the procedure in Division F.40.030.A.1 must be demonstrated as part of Site Plan Review.

2. For development sites greater than or equal to 10 acres, a Framework Plan is required prior to Site Plan Review. See the procedure for Framework Plan in Division F.40.030.A.2.

C. Applicants may, at their discretion, choose to apply a Framework Plan to development sites less than 10 acres.

A. There are two possible procedures for meeting the requirements of this Section, as outlined below:

1. Site Plan for Large Development Sites. This process is required for development sites that have a continuous street frontage greater than 300 feet but are less than 10 acres in total size. See Table F.40.030.B (Procedure for Site Plan for Development Sites < 10 Acres) for the required procedure and example site.

a. Sites must provide a break in the street frontage per the standards in Table F.40.030.A (Large Site Building Frontage Standards), through one of the following:

i. Pedestrian circulation per the standards of Division F.40.040.B.9;

ii. Open space that meets the requirements of Table F.40.040.B (Open Space Types); or

iii. Street (private or public) per the requirements of the Department of Public Service.

Table F.40.030.A: Large Site Street Frontage Standards

b. Front, side, and rear parcel lines and applicable setbacks must be determined by their adjacency to the identified pedestrian circulation, open space, and/or street.

c. Proposed site plans are reviewed for compliance with the standards of this Chapter in addition to the base zoning district standard.

2. Framework Plan. This process is required for sites greater than or equal to 10 acres. See Table F.40.030.C (Procedure for Framework Plan for Development Sites ≥ 10 Acres) for the required procedure and an example site.

a. In cases where a larger development site is to be divided into smaller blocks with all internal streets and open space being private, a Framework Plan must be developed.

b. Proposed Framework Plans must be reviewed by the City for compliance with these standards.

c. Approved Framework Plans are registered on the City's Zoning Map.

d. Framework Plans may be amended using the same process outlined for their creation.

e. In cases where a larger development site incorporates public streets, the Framework Plan must be consistent with any associated subdivision plat.

Table F.40.030.B: Procedure for Site Plan for Development Sites < 10 Acres

Step 1: Identify the Development Site

The development site is the entire site within the scope of the development, which may include one or more parcels. The overall development site is delineated through a survey and must identify the existing public realm.

Sites that do not support a building frontage greater than the maximum allowed per Table F.40.030.A are not required to extend the public realm.

If street frontage is greater than the maximum allowed per Table F.40.030.A then a site plan is required to apply the following steps.

Diagram (Example A): A plan view of a rectangular development site below an existing street. A dimension line along the street frontage is labeled “≤ 300' for UGN-1, UGN-2, or CAC” and “≤ 500' for UCT, UCR, or RAC”. The site is labeled “Example A Development Site < 10 acres”.

Diagram (Example B): The same plan view, but the dimension line along the street frontage is labeled “> 300' for UGN-1, UGN-2, or CAC” and “> 500' for UCT, UCR, or RAC”. The site is labeled “Example B Development Site < 10 acres”.

Diagram labels (Step 1):

• Existing Street
• Example A Development Site < 10 acres
• Example B Development Site < 10 acres

Step 2: Extend the Public Realm and Determine Parcel Orientation

The public realm must be extended into the development site using a pedestrian connection per Division F.40.040.B.9, open space per Division F.40.040.C, or new street between buildings pursuant to Division F.40.040.B at intervals no greater than the street frontage maximum of Table F.40.040.A. All new streets and/or open space must be indicated on a site plan. Any parcel line adjacent to a pedestrian circulation, open space, or new street will be treated as a front or side street parcel line and is subject to all applicable standards of the base zoning district. In instances where parcel lines are not established, setbacks must be measured from the exterior edge of the sidewalk or curb when there is no sidewalk, and/or the adjacent public open space.

Example: (A) Pedestrian Connection | Example: (B) Open Space | Example: (C) New Street

Diagram (A, Pedestrian Connection): A plan view of the site with a 300' existing street along the top and a 100' dimension at the right. A narrow vertical strip (A) runs from the street down through the site as a pedestrian connection. The edges of the strip are labeled Side Street, and the outer edges of the site are labeled Front, Side and Rear.

Diagram (B, Open Space): The same site with a square open space (B) at the upper right next to the street. The sides of the open space are labeled Front and Side, and the outer edges of the site are labeled Front, Side and Rear.

Diagram (C, New Street): The same site with a wider gray vertical strip (C) running down from the street as a new street. The edges of the strip are labeled Side Street, and the outer edges of the site are labeled Front, Side and Rear.

Diagram labels (Step 2):

• 300' Existing Street
• 100'
• Front, Rear, Side, Side Street
• (A), (B), (C) markers

Step 3: Place Buildings and Provide Frontage Types

Locate buildings and parking per all zoning district standards. Buildings must provide frontage types for building entrances that are adjacent to the public realm and apply all standards applicable to a front or side street facade.

Example: (A) Pedestrian Connection | Example: (B) Open Space | Example: (C) New Street

Diagram (A, Pedestrian Connection): A plan view of the site from Step 2 with building footprints placed on both sides of the pedestrian connection and gray parking areas behind them. Labels: 300', 100', (A).

Diagram (B, Open Space): The site with building footprints placed around the open space at the upper right, with gray parking areas behind them. Labels: 300', 100', (B).

Diagram (C, New Street): The site with building footprints placed on both sides of the new street, with gray parking areas behind them. Labels: 300', 100', (C).

Table F.40.030.C: Procedure for Framework Plan for Development Sites ≥ 10 Acres

Example Site (equal to or greater than 10 acres)

Steps

Step 1: Identify the Development Site

The development site is the entire site within the scope of the development, which may include one or more parcels. The overall development site is delineated through a survey and must identify the existing public realm.

Step 2: Identify and Extend the Public Realm to Create New Blocks

Extend the public realm into the development site to create new blocks per the standards of Division F.40.040.A. Framework Plans must depict all blocks, public and private streets, and sidewalks provided as part of the street network. Applicants may also choose to identify any internal pedestrian connections, paths, or alleys that have been determined at the time of the Framework Plan submittal.

Step 3: Locate Open Space

On the Framework Plan, indicate one or more common open space(s) that meet the standards of Division F.40.040.C.

Table F.40.030.C: Procedure for Framework Plan for Development Sites ≥ 10 Acres

Steps

Example Site (equal to or greater than 10 acres)

Step 4: Place Buildings per District Standards

Once the Framework Plan is established through Steps 1-3, locate buildings and parking per all standards in Chapter E.20 (Mixed-Use Zoning Districts) for the base zoning district. Development of each block may occur in phases. Any parcel line adjacent to a pedestrian circulation, open space, or new street will be treated as a front or side street parcel line. On corner parcels, the building can front either street. Buildings must orient onto the public realm and provide at least one frontage type. Pursuant to Division G of the zoning district, on-site parking, if provided, cannot be located between principal buildings and an adjacent street or public open space.

A. Block Configuration. Development sites equal to or greater than 10 acres must create a series of blocks and streets to break down the site into a walkable pattern. Blocks represent the largest organizing element of the development site. Blocks may contain multiple parcels and/or buildings.

1. Framework Plans must depict the configuration of blocks.

2. Blocks may be formed by a combination of streets, natural features, including, but not limited to, rivers, streams, and wooded preserves, large designated open space per Division F.40.040.C or City designation, or other barriers such as railroads.

3. To reinforce the pedestrian scale, individual block lengths and the total block perimeter are required to comply with the standards in Table F.40.040.A (Block Size Standards).

4. Blocks may be uniquely shaped provided that the standards in Table F.40.040.A (Block Size Standards) are met.

Table F.40.040.A: Block Size Standards

^1 Distance from street or public ROW to shared property line.

B. Streets and Connectivity. Existing and/or proposed streets, public and private, together with open spaces, are required to comprise a contiguous pedestrian network throughout large development sites and the adjacent public ROW.

1. Framework Plans must depict all blocks, open space, public and private streets, including, sidewalks provided as part of the street networks. Applicants may also choose to identify any internal pedestrian connections, paths, or alleys that have been determined at the time of the Framework Plan submittal.

2. Alleys and drive aisles are not considered streets or components of the public realm for the purpose of these standards and are allowed only along the rear or side of a parcel.

3. All private streets must include sidewalks subject to the Department of Public Service approval.

4. When provided, parking along private streets must be parallel or angled. 90 degrees, head-in parking is not allowed.

5. Parking, streets (including public and private), sidewalks, and paths must comply with City dimensional standards as outlined in Chapter 3312 (Off-Street Parking and Loading), Chapter 4307 (Regulations For Land Development), and the applicable Department of Public Service rules and regulations.

6. All public and private streets must provide street trees subject to the Department of Public Service approval, with type and spacing as determined by the Department of Recreation and Parks.

7. New dead-end and cul-de-sac streets are not allowed, although stub streets to adjacent parcels for the purposes of future connectivity are allowed and must be identified.

8. Trail systems identified within the development site must connect to existing or programmed trails adjacent to the site.

9. Pedestrian circulation may be provided through a pedestrian connection that meets the following standards:

a. 20 feet minimum and 36 feet maximum width clear between building facades and/or ROW.

b. If a street frontage exists along the parcel, a pedestrian connection will be considered a side street for all applicable standards of the base zoning district.

C. Open Space

1. On large sites equal to or greater than 10 acres, a minimum of five percent of the gross development area (minus existing easements) is required to be set aside as open space.

a. Required setbacks do not count toward the minimum open space area requirement.

b. The required five percent open space for large sites is in addition to the amount of open space required by the base district per each dwelling unit.

c. Regulated floodway, stream corridor protection zones, and stormwater features, including, but not limited to, ponds and swales do not count toward the minimum open space area requirement.

d. Patios, yards, and other areas meant for the benefit of a specific unit or building rather than the broader development site do not count toward the minimum open space area requirement.

e. Dog parks, swimming pools, and volleyball sand pits do not count toward the minimum open space requirement.

f. Development sites must include one or more of the open space types listed in Table F.40.040.B (Open Space Types).

2. Fences up to 42 inches tall are allowed to be installed along the perimeter of parks. Walls greater than 36 inches in height are not allowed. Chain link fencing is prohibited.

3. The facade of buildings that abut or face an open space type are required to incorporate at least one frontage type.

Table F.40.040.B: Open Space Types