7 Design Standards
1. Housing types do not apply to the Design Districts, where all uses, including residential, shall comply with Article 16, Design Districts.
2. Housing types can be used in Planned districts if the residential use is allowed according to paragraph 5.1.2, Use Table. The standards for the housing types shall conform to the standards within the Planned District.
Condominiums
shall be recorded in compliance with the North Carolina Condominium
Act (NCGS §47C).
1. A lot containing a structure
built before 1950 may be subdivided using the small lot option, regardless of whether the existing structure
meets the small lot dimensional standards.
2. Any single‐family or duplex structure
built before 1950 may be moved to any legal lot of record
and used as a primary dwelling or accessory dwelling, regardless of dimensional requirements, through the issuance of a Minor Special Use
Permit.
3. A residential structure
built before 1950 may be moved on its existing lot to be used as a primary dwelling or accessory dwelling and be exempted from meeting dimensional standards through the issuance of a Minor Special Use
Permit.

A single-family
detached house is located on an individual lot with yards
on all four sides of the house. Vehicular access can take place from the front, side, or rear of the lot.
A single-family
detached house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A single-family
detached house shall also be permitted in the RR District in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Single-Family | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 1002 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 5 | 5 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 6 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 13 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 In the RS-20 district, after the creation of one or more flag lots pursuant to paragraph 6.12.5, Flag Lots, the remaining standard lot created from the parent 3 Yard | |||||||
Additional standards, or modifications to the standards, below, may be required pursuant to a Neighborhood Protection Overlay, local historic district, or through application of infill regulations (Sec. 6.8, Infill Development in Residential Districts).
a. The small lot option can be applied in the following zoning districts:
(1) In any tier: RC, RS-M, RU-M, RU-5, and RU-5(2) zoning districts.
(2) In the Urban Tier: all zoning districts where single-family
detached houses are permitted.
b. The small lot option can be applied to any Lot of Record
in an applicable zoning district, regardless of lot dimensions.
Lot Dimensions | |
Minimum Lot Area | 2,000 square feet |
Minimum Lot Width | 25 feet |
Minimum Street Yard | 10 feet |
Minimum Individual Side Yard | 5 feet |
Minimum Rear Yard | 15 feet |
Maximum Height | The lesser of 2 stories |
a. The maximum above grade
heated square footage of the primary dwelling(s), shall be 1,200 square feet, with a maximum building
footprint of 800 square feet.
b. A structure
on a Reduced Pole Flag Lot or Small Lot has a maximum height of 2 stories
or 32 feet. Exemptions in paragraph 6.12.1B shall apply.
In addition to the required street tree, and in lieu of infill landscaping requirements in Sec. 6.8, if applicable, at least one canopy
and one understory tree shall be planted or preserved on the lot.
(1) For tree preservation, the tree protection zone
shall be maintained per paragraph 8.3.2, Protection of Existing Vegetation. Protection of invasive or other species precluded for planting pursuant to the Durham Landscape Manual shall not qualify.
(2) For tree planting, the Durham Landscape Manual shall be used to determine appropriate species and planting area.
Where a lot abuts an improved and maintained alley
, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Small Lots and Reduced Pole Flag Lots must include one approved sustainable feature including ribbon driveway
, grid‐connected solar photovoltaic array1, solar hot water heating for domestic hot water2, spray foam insulation, Green Building Certification
, use of WaterSense products3, no on‐site parking, downspouts not piped to the right‐of‐way, or projects utilizing any part of the Affordable Housing Bonus as outlined in Section 6.6.
(1) An on‐site system that is estimated by the installer to produce
at least 25% of the home’s energy needs.
(2) Energy Star certified water heating system designated as Solar with Electric Backup or Solar with Gas Backup.
(3) To satisfy this requirement all toilets, bathroom faucets, and showerheads must meet the EPA criteria for WaterSense.
Utilization of the small lot option shall be recorded on a plat
at the time of approval, specifying the housing type and associated limitations.
An existing single-family
detached or duplex structure
on a lot of record
prior to the effective date of these standards can be improved pursuant to the applicable general standards for the single-family
detached or duplex housing type. Such improvements may still be considered improvements or additions to a nonconforming structure
pursuant to Sec. 14.4, Nonconforming Improvements and Structures.

A zero lot line
house is a single-family
detached house positioned on one lot line without any setback
from that lot line, with yards
on the other three sides of the building
including a wider side yard
on one side.
A zero lot line
house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A zero lot line
house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Zero Lot Line | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | ||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | ||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | ||||||
Street Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
Street Yard | 25 | 25 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | |
Side Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Side Yard | 20 | 18 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | ||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | ||||||
Lot Area | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | ||||||
Street Yard | 20 | 20 | — | 15 | — | — |
5 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — | |
Side Yard | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 12 | 12 | — | 10 | — | — |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | ||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
The subdivision
shall be designated as a zero lot line
subdivision
on the plat
at the time of approval.
Easement
agreements shall be recorded to allow maintenance and access for that side of the dwelling adjacent
to the property line.
On the property line that the structure
is built to, a privacy fence or wall at least six feet high is required between lots, to the rear of the structure
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply. The following shall also apply:
1. If a lot in a new zero lot line
subdivision
is adjacent
to the side of an existing, developed
residential lot that is not zero lot line
, then:
a. The new lot shall not be zero lot line
; or
b. The required side yard
shall be adjacent
to the existing lot.
2. The minimum side yard
shall be nine feet.

A traditional house is a single-family
detached house that is set closer to the street than a conventional single family
detached house and shall only have vehicular access from the rear. It has yards
on each side of the building
.
A traditional house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A traditional house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Traditional House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 35 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 6 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 12 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply.

An attached house is a single-family
house with a shared common wall along one of the lot lines that separates the two lots.
An attached house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. An attached house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Attached House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) “Per Pair” denotes that the minimum number required applies to the pair of units. For example in RU-M, the lot area | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 2,975 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard 3. Attached House lots that have vehicular access from the rear may reduce the minimum street yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
The housing type shall be identified on the plat
at the time of approval.
Driveways
may be shared with a recorded shared access agreement between two pairs of lots using this housing type.
Small Lot Option can apply and the provisions within paragraph 7.1.2C shall apply to the attached house lot pair.
Example: A 2,000 square foot lot that meets the Small Lot requirements can become two lots with an Attached Home.

An attached duplex is a two-family
dwelling in a single structure
on a single lot. Individual units can be located on separate floors or on the same level. A detached duplex allows for two dwelling units
on one lot, but the dwelling units
are not required to be attached.
A duplex shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A duplex shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Attached House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 2,975 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 12 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply.
A maximum of two driveways
shall be allowed and shall be perpendicular to the right-of-way
.

A townhouse
is a building
made up of three or more attached dwelling units
(except where otherwise allowed), where each unit is on an individual lot and the units are lined up in a row and share side walls.
1. A townhouse
shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Townhouse | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 121 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 201 |
5 | 5 | |
Street Yard | 0 | 0 |
Rear Yard | 20 | 20 |
Rear Yard | 0 | 0 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. 4 The rear yard | ||
2. Building
configurations shall consist of at least three units except as follows:
a. In the Urban Tier, a maximum of 50% of the buildings can consist of two units.
b. In the Suburban Tier, a maximum of 25% of the buildings can consist of two units.
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Commentary: It is recommended that preliminary site design also considers emergency access and rescue requirements of the Building
Code for townhouses
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

A detached rowhouse is one unit within a set of three or more detached dwelling units
, where each unit is on an individual lot and the units are lined up in a row, but the units do not share side walls.
1. A detached rowhouse shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Detached Rowhouse Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 121 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 201 |
Street Yard | 5 | 5 |
Street Yard | 0 | 0 |
Rear Yard | 20 | 20 |
Rear Yard | 0 | 0 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. 4 The rear yard | ||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Commentary: It is recommended that preliminary site design also considers emergency access and rescue requirements of the Building
Code for townhouses
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

A multiplex is a multifamily
housing type with three or four individual units on a single lot. Individual units can be attached or detached, and can be located on separate floors or side-by-side. Parking is often shared in a single consolidated area, even when garages and carports are used.
A multiplex shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Multiplex Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Lot Dimensions (min.) | ||
Lot Width | 70 | 50 |
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 51 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 51 |
5 | 5 | |
Rear Yard | 10 | 10 |
Distance between Building | 12 | 0 |
Building Separation | 10 | 10 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. | ||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

An apartment is a multifamily
housing type on a single tract
or parcel
of land containing five or more units. Apartments can vary in height; the individual units can be attached or detached and located on separate floors or side-by-side and can be attached or detached.
Apartments shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Apartment Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Lot Dimensions | ||
Lot Width | 75 | 75 |
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 25 | 5 |
5 | 5 | |
Side Yard | 8 | 8 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 20 |
Distance between Building | 12 | 0 |
Building Separation | 10 | 10 |
1 Yard | ||
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.
Open space
adds to the visual character and uniqueness of each development
and allows for recreational and aesthetic enjoyment by the residents. In the Rural Tier, open space
is intended to serve as land preserved for passive enjoyment. In the Suburban and Urban Tiers, improved open space
provides centrally located community gathering spots, and play spaces that are integral to the livability of the neighborhoods, while the preservation of natural areas ensures habitat. In the Compact Neighborhood Tier, a limited quantity of open space
is required as relief from the intensity of the built environment. Except for paragraph 7.2.5, Ownership and Management of Open Space
, the requirements of this section do not apply to conservation subdivisions
under paragraph 6.2.4, Conservation Subdivision
.
A. Open space
shall be required in all districts in accordance with Article 6, District Intensity Standards, except that certain residential developments
can make payment in lieu of providing required open space
provided that the development
:
1. Is not a conservation subdivision
under paragraph 6.2.4, Conservation Subdivision
;
2. Is not a cluster subdivision
under Sec. 6.7, Cluster Subdivision
;
3. Contains ten or fewer units; and
4. Contains no engineered stormwater
controls.
Payment in lieu of required private open space
for recreational purposes under this section is available in addition to payment-in-lieu available under Sec. 12.4, Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility, and Sec. 12.5, Recreation Land.
B. Payment-in-lieu shall be an amount equivalent to the tax value of the amount of usable property that would have been required for open space
. Payments, when authorized, shall be expended within the respective recreation district within which collected.
C. In Cluster Subdivisions
, the quantity of open space
shall be equal to the reduction in total lot area
, in addition to the open space
required in the zoning districts in Sec. 6.3, Residential Suburban Development
Intensity, Sec. 6.4, Residential Urban Development
Intensity, or Sec. 6.5, Residential Compact Development
Intensity, as applicable.
D. For Design Districts, all open space
requirements shall be pursuant to Article 16, Design Districts, unless otherwise indicated. If conflicts arise between Article 16, Design Districts, and this section, the more stringent regulation shall apply.
CBUs, if required, shall be considered a component of any open space
. However, all applicable development
requirements shall apply.
Where open space
is required, at least one-third shall consist of recreational open space
.
Recreational open space
shall be provided by the type and percentages indicated in the following table:
| Types of Recreational Open Space | Maximum Percent by Tier | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Suburban | Urban | Compact | |
Property developed | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Benches, picnic tables, shelters | 30% | 30% | 30% |
Publicly accessible plazas and courtyards | – | 100% | 100% |
a. Recreational open space
is not required in the Rural Tier or for development
pursuant to Sec. 6.9, Nonresidential and Group Living Development
in Residential Districts
.
b. The recreational open space
requirement shall not apply to the additional open space
required for a cluster subdivision
. The recreational open space
requirement shall only be applied to the amount that would be provided for a conventional subdivision
.
Except for walking paths and bicycle trails, recreational open space
areas shall have at least one side with street frontage
of at least 50 feet in length, and shall be accessible to residential development
by sidewalks, pursuant to Article 12, Infrastructure and Public Improvement.
a. In the Urban Tier, recreational open space
shall be located so that at least 95% of the residential units in the subdivision
or development
are within a 1,300-foot walking distance of useable open space
.
b. In the Suburban Tier, recreational open space
shall be located so that at least 95% of the residential units in the subdivision
or development
are within a 2,600-foot walking distance of usable open space
.
c. In the MU District, recreational open space
shall be located in a central commons area around which different uses are located.
(1) If the development
is greater than 100 acres, multiple common areas shall be provided.
(2) Central commons areas are not required if the entire mixed use
development
is solely vertically integrated.
B. The remaining required open space
, and 100% of required open space
where recreational open space
is not required as indicated in paragraph 7.2.3A.2, shall consist of the types and percentages indicated in the following table:
| Maximum Percent by Tier | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rural | Suburban | Urban | Compact | |
Natural or Vegetated | ||||
Agriculture, horticulture, silviculture or pasture uses | 100% | 50% | — | — |
Naturally vegetated or revegetated to appear naturally vegetated. | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Severe development | 100% | 50% | 100% | 100% |
Durham Inventory | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Tree protection areas, project boundary buffers | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Recreational | ||||
Property developed | 100% | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Benches, picnic tables, shelters | 100% | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Publicly accessible plazas and courtyards | — | — | 100% | 100% |
Other | ||||
Stormwater | 25% | 25% | 50% | 50% |
Land dedicated | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
C. Notwithstanding the above requirements, area within required riparian buffers can be used to satisfy any open space
requirement.
A dog park or play area used to satisfy the requirements of this section shall be enclosed with a galvanized or coated chain-link fence measuring four to six feet in height and include a double-gate entry system. The following shall also be provided within the area:
1. Seating with benches.
2. A designated pet waste
receptacle.
3. Signage providing City, County, and other applicable rules.
4. At least one of the following:
a. A plumbed drinking water station.
b. A shade area, either with a structure
or mature shade trees
A trail used to satisfy the requirements of this section shall be paved with an all-weather material such as asphalt, concrete, or another similar material that would satisfy the State accessibility code.
a. Gravel is not considered an all-weather surface.
b. Exceptions may be made regarding paving if a trail is proposed in a required riparian buffer
.
A designated pet waste
receptacle must be provided at each trail head.
1. Streets, driveways
, vehicular use areas, and yard
spaces provided for residences shall not be counted toward the open space
requirement.
2. Sidewalks and walkways required pursuant to Section 12.4, Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility, shall not qualify as “all-weather trails” and shall not be counted towards open space
requirements.
1. Within the Compact Neighborhood Tier other than Design Districts, a horizontal dimension of at least ten feet in all directions shall be the minimum required to be considered open space
.
2. Within the Rural, Suburban, and Urban Tiers, a horizontal dimension of at least 25 feet in all directions shall be the minimum required to be considered open space
.
Unless otherwise noted below, the gross square footage of the open space
area shall be utilized in calculating compliance with open space
requirements.
1. To calculate trails, the square footage of the trail surface shall be used.
2. To calculate benches and picnic tables, the square footage of each amenity plus a two-foot wide walk zone around each amenity shall be used.
3. To calculate playgrounds
, the square footage of each playground
structure
plus a six-foot wide walk zone around each structure
shall be used.
4. Areas of overlapping walk zones shall be counted once.
A. Land set aside as open space
in residential developments
shall be held in common ownership or dedicated
to the public rather than platted
as part of individual private lots.
B. Prior to approval of a final plat
, a program for continued maintenance of all open space
areas shall be submitted. The submission shall include agreements, contracts, deed restrictions, sureties, or other legal instruments acceptable to the City or County, as appropriate, to guarantee the provision and continued maintenance of such common areas and facilities.
C. The open space
shall be protected in perpetuity by a binding legal instrument that is recorded with the deed. The instrument shall be one of the following:
1. A permanent conservation easement
in favor of either:
a. A land trust or similar conservation-oriented non-profit organization with legal authority to accept such easements
(the organization shall be bona fide and in perpetual existence and the conveyance instruments shall contain an appropriate provision for retransfer in the event the organization becomes unable to carry out its functions). If the entity accepting the easement
is not the City or the County, then a third party right of enforcement favoring the City or the County shall be included in the easement
; or
b. A governmental entity with an interest in pursuing goals compatible with the purposes of this section acceptable to the City or County, as appropriate.
2. A permanent restrictive covenant for conservation purposes in favor of a governmental entity.
3. An equivalent legal tool that provides permanent protection, if approved by the City or County, as appropriate.
4. Dedication
of the land to an established homeowner’s association (with legal standing in the property) that accepts permanent maintenance responsibility.
D. The instrument for permanent protection shall include clear restrictions on the use of the open space
. These restrictions shall include all restrictions contained in this Article, as well as any further restrictions the applicant chooses to place on the use of the open space
.
E. Open space
that has been dedicated
to an established homeowner's association can be transferred with a permanent conservation easement
to a land trust or similar conservation-oriented non-profit organization with legal authority to accept such easements
pursuant to paragraph 7.2.5C.1.a above.
A. Except in Design Districts, this section applies to all nonresidential, non-industrial facilities with exterior elevations that are greater than 100 feet in total length or diameter and visible from a public right-of-way
or from adjacent
residential development
.
B. All applicable structures shall be required to incorporate variations in the façades and roofline in order to ensure visual interest by the following standards:
1. Incorporate variations in the façade, such as recesses and projections, door and window rhythm, or other architectural detailing. Changes of materials can also be used to meet this requirement so long as materials changes occur at a change of plane, such as a recess, projection, or inside corner; and
2. Incorporate variations in the roofline treatment, such as stepped parapets, multiple roof forms, dormers, and corner tower elements.
1. Canopies in nonresidential zones can extend into the required yard
but shall be at least five feet from any property line and shall not project into any utility easement
.
2. Display or storage shall not be permitted as the primary use under the canopy
unless outdoor displays and outdoor storage are allowed in the zoning district in accordance with Sec. 7.5, Outdoor Display and Storage.
1. The maximum distance to the highest point on the fascia shall be 19-1/2 feet as measured from the highest point of the highest grade
under the canopy
.
2. All light fixtures mounted in fuel canopies shall be recessed.
The purpose of these standards is to assure that adequate exterior lighting is provided for nonresidential and multifamily
developments
to facilitate crime prevention, security, and safe passage, and that exterior lights be shielded so that the light cast beyond the property line does not exceed the limits in accordance with these standards.
A. Adequate lighting shall be provided in nonresidential and multifamily
developments
conforming to professional engineering standards.
B. The following shall be exempt from these provisions:
1. Outdoor lights used for a temporary event; permitted through a temporary use permit.
2. Outdoor lights used exclusively for recreational activities, concerts, plays or other outdoor events that are open to the public, provided that the light fixtures are located at least 100 feet from any adjacent
residential use and the event or function meets all other applicable zoning requirements. Time limits are as follows:
a. No limits within the UC, UC-2, and DD Districts.
b. In all other districts, lights shall not be illuminated between the weekday hours of 12:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. and between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
c. In the I, IL, and IP Districts, illumination may be extended until 3:00 a.m. on weekdays and 5:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday with the approval of a minor special use permit per Sec. 3.9, Special Use Permit. Additionally, the review factors in paragraph 3.9.8B, Review Factors, to be considered shall be limited to paragraphs 3.9.8B.4, Lighting; 3.9.8B.10, Effect on Nearby Properties; 3.9.8B.11, Compatibility; and 3.9.8B.12, Consistency with Policy.
3. Outdoor lighting exempted pursuant to 1 and 2 above shall only be illuminated while the activity takes place and during high traffic periods immediately before and after the event.
A. All site lighting shall be designed so that the level of illumination as measured in foot-candles (fc) at all points meets the standards in the table below with minimum and maximum levels measured on the pavement within the lighted area.
Type of Lighting | LIGHT LEVEL (in foot-candles) | |
|---|---|---|
Minimum at Any Point | Maximum at Any Point | |
Architectural Lighting, Landscape or Decorative Lighting, Walkways except for those listed below | 0.0 | 5.0 |
Canopy | 2.0 | 24.0 |
| Pedestrian Passages | 1.0 | 15.0 |
0.5 | 8.0 | |
Nonresidential and Multifamily | 1.0 | 15.0 |
Nonresidential Parking Lot | 0.5 | 10.0 |
On-site walkways between building | 0.2 | 5.0 |
Storage Area (security lighting) | 0.5 | 10.0 |
Vehicle | 0.5 | 24.0 |
B. The maximum illumination permitted at the edge of a property line shall be as set forth below. Where a development
is unified with shared parking or other measures shown on a site plan
, the maximum illumination levels shall apply only to the exterior lot lines of the project (any interior lot lines shall be exempt from this paragraph).
1. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to a residential zoning district shall be 0.5 foot-candles.
2. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to nonresidential zoning district shall be 5.0 foot-candles.
3. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to a street shall be 5.0 foot-candles.
The maximum height for directional or full cut-off lighting fixtures (fixtures designed to ensure that no light is emitted above a horizontal line parallel to the ground) shall be:
1. Thirty feet above grade
if located at least 50 feet from a residential property line; and
2. Fifteen feet above grade
if located within 50 feet of a residential property line.
The maximum height for non-directional lighting fixtures (fixtures designed to allow light to be emitted above a horizontal line parallel to the ground) shall be 15 feet above grade
. Non-directional lighting fixtures shall be translucent or have baffles to prevent views of the light source.
Under canopy
lighting shall be restricted to lighting fixtures (including lenses) that do not project below the bottom of the canopy
.
Lighting shall be oriented
not to direct glare or excessive illumination onto streets and adjacent
residences.
Lighting fixtures used to accent architectural features, landscaping or art shall be located, aimed or shielded to minimize light spill into the night sky.
Blinking or flashing lights shall be prohibited unless the lights are required as a safety feature (e.g. beacons on towers) or permitted as part of a sign
in accordance with Article 11, Sign Standards.
Lighting fixtures existing as of June 12, 2000 may remain, and shall be considered nonconforming structures. Modifications, replacement or expansions, shall conform to the standards of this Ordinance.
A. Regulations governing outdoor storage and display shall apply in all non-residential districts.
B. Outdoor storage regulations shall not apply to agricultural uses
pursuant to Sec. 5.1, Use Table.
A. Outdoor display is defined as the display of products actively available for sale, but does not include products in closed boxes, crates, other kinds of shipping containers, or uses considered outdoor storage in accordance with paragraph 7.5.3, Outdoor Storage, below.
B. Except in association with agricultural uses
, outdoor display shall be indicated on a site plan
illustrating the extent of the permitted area for outdoor display pursuant to the standards below:
1. All products displayed shall be located outdoors only during the hours the use is open for business;
2. The display area shall be located no closer than five feet from any public entrance;
3. The display area shall occupy no more than 50% of the building
frontage;
4. The display area shall not block
sidewalks or parking areas, and shall not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation; and
5. The display area shall not be located in a public right-of-way
except in the Downtown Tier, subject to other applicable requirements.
C. For outdoor display associated with agricultural uses
pursuant to Sec. 5.1, Use Table, only the following shall apply.
1. No site plan
is required.
2. Outdoor display areas shall not block
sidewalks or parking areas, and shall not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation; and
3. Outdoor display areas shall not be located in a public right-of-way
except in the Downtown Tier, subject to other applicable requirements.
Outdoor storage is more intensive than outdoor display. Materials stored in outdoor storage are not normally brought indoors overnight.
1. Class A outdoor storage is defined as garden supplies, building
supplies, plants, vehicle
sales and services, manufactured home sales, play equipment, and other similar items.
2. Areas used for Class A outdoor storage shall be permitted following review and approval of a site plan
illustrating the extent of the area proposed for outdoor storage, provided it meets the following standards:
a. No outdoor storage shall be allowed in street yards
or within 15 feet of any public right-of-way
, whichever is greater.
b. No outdoor storage shall be permitted within required vehicular use areas.
c. Outdoor storage can be located to the side of a building
, provided it is not located within the side yard
.
d. Any rear yard
can be used for outdoor storage purposes, except in the SRP District.
1. Class B outdoor storage is defined as material stored in crates, boxes, or shipping containers; lumber yards
; pipe; wrecking, junk, and salvage yards
; vehicle storage yards
; and other similar uses.
2. In addition to the requirements of paragraph B.2 above, areas used for Class B outdoor storage shall be screened
from view from the public right-of-way
, public vehicular use areas, or adjacent
residential development
pursuant to Sec. 9.7, Screening
.
1. Outdoor storage shall not be permitted in required yards
.
2. Outdoor storage shall be screened
according to Class B standards.
This section shall apply to all on-site solid waste
, utility, and other mechanical equipment facilities serving non-residential and multifamily
development
. Pet waste
receptacles shall be provided pursuant to Sec. 7.2.3 Design and Use
of Required Open Space
, and 7.6.5 Pet Waste
Receptacles.
A. All utilities (including heating or air conditioning units and other mechanical equipment) and solid waste
collection facilities shall be located on the same lot as the use served. Off-site solid waste
collection facilities are allowed with documentation of a shared facility agreement between property owners
.
B. Such facilities shall be located beyond the minimum or maximum street yard
, as applicable.
All screening
of utility and solid waste facilities
shall be pursuant to Sec. 9.7, Screening
.
A. All required solid waste
collection facilities shall be designed with appropriate means of access to a street or alley
in a manner that will least interfere with traffic movement, and will most facilitate the service of the facilities. Site design shall not create a condition that requires solid waste
collection vehicles
to back out of sites.
B. When the service side is visible from an adjacent
property line, or adjacent
public streets or public trails, access gates or doors with opacity
of at least 85% shall be required.
C. Space allocated to any solid waste facility
shall not be used to satisfy the space requirements for off-street parking or loading facilities, nor shall any parking or loading spaces be used to satisfy the space requirements for any solid waste facility
.
D. All solid waste
collection facilities shall be designed to prevent wind-blown debris from leaving the site.
E. All food-related businesses shall provide water quality treatment in conformance with applicable standards and design guidelines for runoff
from solid waste
collection facilities.
For Design Districts, additional requirements shall apply pursuant to Sec. 16.2, Site Design.
A. Pet waste
receptacles must be provided in all residential developments
that require preliminary plat
approval and are located outside the design district zoning districts.
B. Pet waste
receptacles shall be placed on land in residential developments
held in common ownership or dedicated
to the public.
1. Pet waste
receptacles shall be placed within two feet of a sidewalk and/or internal walkway.
2. At least two pet waste
receptacles shall be provided for developments
with 90 or fewer dwelling units
. For developments
with 91 or more dwelling units
, at least 3 receptacles shall be provided.
A. The term flag in this section shall mean a piece of fabric or other flexible material solely containing distinctive colors, patterns, standards, words, or emblems used as a symbol of an organization or entity, including but not limited to political jurisdictions, such as the United States.
B. Flags displaying a logo, message, statement, or expression relating to commercial interests, and banners otherwise not meeting the definition of a flag shall also conform with all sign
regulations in Article 11, Sign Standards.
C. Reference to flagpole height refers to vertical flagpoles.
D. References to the number of flags and flagpoles and flag dimensions refer to both vertical flagpoles and mast arm flagpoles, such as staffs extending at an angle from a building
.
A. Except as otherwise provided herein flags shall be displayed on flagpoles.
B. In nonresidential zoning districts, flagpoles shall not exceed the maximum height allowed in the zoning district or 70 feet, whichever is less.
C. Flagpoles shall not be placed on top of buildings unless they are located in the Downtown Tier.
D. In residential districts
, flagpoles shall not exceed 25 feet in height unless a special use permit is granted by the Board of Adjustment. A fee shall not be charged for a use permit request for a flag in a residential district
.
E. A vertical flag pole shall be set back from all property boundaries a distance which is at least equal to the height of the pole.
F. The maximum dimensions of any flag shall be proportional to the flagpole height. In addition, flags are subject to the following dimensional limitations.
Pole Height (feet) | Max. Flag Size |
|---|---|
Up to 25 | 24 |
25 to 29 | 28 |
30 to 34 | 40 |
35 to 39 | 60 |
40 to 49 | 96 |
50 to 59 | 150 |
60 to 70 | 216 |
G. Each property shall be allowed a maximum of three flagpoles unless a special use permit is granted by the Board of Adjustment.
H. A maximum of three flags shall be allowed per flagpole.
I. The flag and flagpole shall be maintained in good repair. A flagpole with broken halyards shall not be used and flags which are torn or frayed shall not be displayed.
J. On United States and North Carolina holidays, there shall be no maximum flag size or number or other limitations on manner of display.
K. This section shall not be interpreted to restrict the right to display eligible flags as banners or noncommercial signage under Article 11, Sign Standards. Flags mounted directly on a building
wall shall expressly be considered signs
and shall be subject to Article 11, Sign Standards.
Any activity which releases smoke, particulate matter, gases or contaminants into the atmosphere shall comply with all applicable federal and State regulations.
All activities shall comply with the Fire Codes of the appropriate jurisdiction.
All activities shall comply at a minimum with all applicable State and federal regulations as well as the appropriate County Health Department regulations and City and County fire department regulations for hazardous materials
and wastes
.
All activities shall control electromagnetic frequencies so that there is no interference in the operation of equipment off-site and no adverse effects to persons
off-site.
Any activity which discharges material or liquids into sanitary sewers shall conform with all federal, State and local discharge and release regulations. City and County sanitation ordinances may also apply. All storage areas, waste
disposal
areas, and trash handling facilities shall be designed to prevent wind blown debris from leaving the site. The drainage of waste
or stored materials onto adjacent
properties or directly into creeks and watercourses
or into the stormwater
conveyance system is prohibited. Only uncontaminated stormwater runoff
may be discharged into the stormwater
conveyance system.
All activities shall comply with all federal and State regulations which apply to the handling, storage, and disposal
of nuclear material
.
Noise shall be regulated by Article II, Noise, of Chapter 26, Environment, Litter, Vandalism and Pollution the Durham City Code or Article II of Chapter 14 (Environment) of the Durham County Code, as appropriate.
All activity shall comply with any applicable State or federal building
code and accessibility regulations, as determined by the City-County Inspections Department.
A. The establishment and/or disturbance of cemetery
sites shall be in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
B. For development
on property abutting or containing an established cemetery
, a field survey shall be provided to identify the extent of the cemetery
and any potential unmarked gravesites.
C. Public access shall be maintained to any property containing a cemetery
.
A. Development
projects utilizing mass grading
shall maintain a minimum 10-foot undisturbed grading
setback
from all exterior boundaries of the development
site.
B. Grading
for a development
site that does not qualify as mass grading
shall maintain a minimum five-foot undisturbed grading
setback
from all exterior boundaries of the development
, except for along the street frontage
.
C. Allowed disturbance within grading
setbacks
shall be as follows, unless other encroachments
are otherwise allowed within this Ordinance:
1. Planting of required landscaping to meet other Ordinance requirements.
2. Grading
necessary to accommodate the construction of a trail.
3. Grading
necessary to accommodate required access, utilities, and infrastructure.
4. Grading
necessary to accommodate positive drainage away from the foundation of structures. Grading
for this purpose shall be allowed to encroach
two feet into any required grading
setback
.
D. Failure to maintain the grading
setbacks
will require a revegetation plan pursuant to paragraph 9.5.3B.2.
7 Design Standards
1. Housing types do not apply to the Design Districts, where all uses, including residential, shall comply with Article 16, Design Districts.
2. Housing types can be used in Planned districts if the residential use is allowed according to paragraph 5.1.2, Use Table. The standards for the housing types shall conform to the standards within the Planned District.
Condominiums
shall be recorded in compliance with the North Carolina Condominium
Act (NCGS §47C).
1. A lot containing a structure
built before 1950 may be subdivided using the small lot option, regardless of whether the existing structure
meets the small lot dimensional standards.
2. Any single‐family or duplex structure
built before 1950 may be moved to any legal lot of record
and used as a primary dwelling or accessory dwelling, regardless of dimensional requirements, through the issuance of a Minor Special Use
Permit.
3. A residential structure
built before 1950 may be moved on its existing lot to be used as a primary dwelling or accessory dwelling and be exempted from meeting dimensional standards through the issuance of a Minor Special Use
Permit.

A single-family
detached house is located on an individual lot with yards
on all four sides of the house. Vehicular access can take place from the front, side, or rear of the lot.
A single-family
detached house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A single-family
detached house shall also be permitted in the RR District in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Single-Family | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 1002 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 5 | 5 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 6 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 13 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 In the RS-20 district, after the creation of one or more flag lots pursuant to paragraph 6.12.5, Flag Lots, the remaining standard lot created from the parent 3 Yard | |||||||
Additional standards, or modifications to the standards, below, may be required pursuant to a Neighborhood Protection Overlay, local historic district, or through application of infill regulations (Sec. 6.8, Infill Development in Residential Districts).
a. The small lot option can be applied in the following zoning districts:
(1) In any tier: RC, RS-M, RU-M, RU-5, and RU-5(2) zoning districts.
(2) In the Urban Tier: all zoning districts where single-family
detached houses are permitted.
b. The small lot option can be applied to any Lot of Record
in an applicable zoning district, regardless of lot dimensions.
Lot Dimensions | |
Minimum Lot Area | 2,000 square feet |
Minimum Lot Width | 25 feet |
Minimum Street Yard | 10 feet |
Minimum Individual Side Yard | 5 feet |
Minimum Rear Yard | 15 feet |
Maximum Height | The lesser of 2 stories |
a. The maximum above grade
heated square footage of the primary dwelling(s), shall be 1,200 square feet, with a maximum building
footprint of 800 square feet.
b. A structure
on a Reduced Pole Flag Lot or Small Lot has a maximum height of 2 stories
or 32 feet. Exemptions in paragraph 6.12.1B shall apply.
In addition to the required street tree, and in lieu of infill landscaping requirements in Sec. 6.8, if applicable, at least one canopy
and one understory tree shall be planted or preserved on the lot.
(1) For tree preservation, the tree protection zone
shall be maintained per paragraph 8.3.2, Protection of Existing Vegetation. Protection of invasive or other species precluded for planting pursuant to the Durham Landscape Manual shall not qualify.
(2) For tree planting, the Durham Landscape Manual shall be used to determine appropriate species and planting area.
Where a lot abuts an improved and maintained alley
, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Small Lots and Reduced Pole Flag Lots must include one approved sustainable feature including ribbon driveway
, grid‐connected solar photovoltaic array1, solar hot water heating for domestic hot water2, spray foam insulation, Green Building Certification
, use of WaterSense products3, no on‐site parking, downspouts not piped to the right‐of‐way, or projects utilizing any part of the Affordable Housing Bonus as outlined in Section 6.6.
(1) An on‐site system that is estimated by the installer to produce
at least 25% of the home’s energy needs.
(2) Energy Star certified water heating system designated as Solar with Electric Backup or Solar with Gas Backup.
(3) To satisfy this requirement all toilets, bathroom faucets, and showerheads must meet the EPA criteria for WaterSense.
Utilization of the small lot option shall be recorded on a plat
at the time of approval, specifying the housing type and associated limitations.
An existing single-family
detached or duplex structure
on a lot of record
prior to the effective date of these standards can be improved pursuant to the applicable general standards for the single-family
detached or duplex housing type. Such improvements may still be considered improvements or additions to a nonconforming structure
pursuant to Sec. 14.4, Nonconforming Improvements and Structures.

A zero lot line
house is a single-family
detached house positioned on one lot line without any setback
from that lot line, with yards
on the other three sides of the building
including a wider side yard
on one side.
A zero lot line
house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A zero lot line
house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Zero Lot Line | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | ||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | ||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | ||||||
Street Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
Street Yard | 25 | 25 | 20 | 20 | 15 | 10 |
5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | |
Side Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Side Yard | 20 | 18 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | ||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | ||||||
Lot Area | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | ||||||
Street Yard | 20 | 20 | — | 15 | — | — |
5 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — | |
Side Yard | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 12 | 12 | — | 10 | — | — |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | ||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
The subdivision
shall be designated as a zero lot line
subdivision
on the plat
at the time of approval.
Easement
agreements shall be recorded to allow maintenance and access for that side of the dwelling adjacent
to the property line.
On the property line that the structure
is built to, a privacy fence or wall at least six feet high is required between lots, to the rear of the structure
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply. The following shall also apply:
1. If a lot in a new zero lot line
subdivision
is adjacent
to the side of an existing, developed
residential lot that is not zero lot line
, then:
a. The new lot shall not be zero lot line
; or
b. The required side yard
shall be adjacent
to the existing lot.
2. The minimum side yard
shall be nine feet.

A traditional house is a single-family
detached house that is set closer to the street than a conventional single family
detached house and shall only have vehicular access from the rear. It has yards
on each side of the building
.
A traditional house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A traditional house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Traditional House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 5,000 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 4,250 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 35 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 6 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 12 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply.

An attached house is a single-family
house with a shared common wall along one of the lot lines that separates the two lots.
An attached house shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. An attached house shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Attached House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) “Per Pair” denotes that the minimum number required applies to the pair of units. For example in RU-M, the lot area | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 2,975 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard 3. Attached House lots that have vehicular access from the rear may reduce the minimum street yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
The housing type shall be identified on the plat
at the time of approval.
Driveways
may be shared with a recorded shared access agreement between two pairs of lots using this housing type.
Small Lot Option can apply and the provisions within paragraph 7.1.2C shall apply to the attached house lot pair.
Example: A 2,000 square foot lot that meets the Small Lot requirements can become two lots with an Attached Home.

An attached duplex is a two-family
dwelling in a single structure
on a single lot. Individual units can be located on separate floors or on the same level. A detached duplex allows for two dwelling units
on one lot, but the dwelling units
are not required to be attached.
A duplex shall be permitted in accordance with the table below. A duplex shall also be permitted in the RR District in a conservation subdivision
in accordance with the standards of paragraph 6.2.1A, Dimensional Standards.
Attached House Standards | RS-20 | RS-10 | RS-8 | RS-M | RU-5, | RU-M | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Conventional Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min. square feet) | |||||||
Lot Area | 20,000 | 10,000 | 8,000 | 5,000 | 5,000 | 3,500 | 3,500 |
Lot Area | 17,000 | 8,500 | 6,800 | 4,250 | 4,250 | 2,975 | 2,975 |
Lot Width | 100 | 75 | 60 | 35 | 45 | 35 | 35 |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 15 | 10 | 10 |
Street Yard | 35 | 25 | 25 | 20 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
Side Yard | 12 | 10 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
30 | 24 | 22 | 15 | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 |
Cluster Subdivision | |||||||
Lot Dimensions (min.) | |||||||
Lot Area | 10,000 | 5,000 | 4,000 | — | 3,500 | — | — |
Lot Width | 75 | 40 | 40 | — | 40 | — | — |
Yards | |||||||
Street Yard | 0 | 0 | 0 | — | 0 | — | — |
Side Yard | 9 | 6 | 5 | — | 5 | — | — |
22 | 13 | 12 | — | — | — | — | |
Rear Yard | 25 | 25 | 25 | — | 25 | — | — |
1 Lot area 2 Yard | |||||||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Paragraph 7.1.2C, Small Lot Option, can apply and the provisions within that paragraph shall apply.
A maximum of two driveways
shall be allowed and shall be perpendicular to the right-of-way
.

A townhouse
is a building
made up of three or more attached dwelling units
(except where otherwise allowed), where each unit is on an individual lot and the units are lined up in a row and share side walls.
1. A townhouse
shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Townhouse | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 121 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 201 |
5 | 5 | |
Street Yard | 0 | 0 |
Rear Yard | 20 | 20 |
Rear Yard | 0 | 0 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. 4 The rear yard | ||
2. Building
configurations shall consist of at least three units except as follows:
a. In the Urban Tier, a maximum of 50% of the buildings can consist of two units.
b. In the Suburban Tier, a maximum of 25% of the buildings can consist of two units.
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Commentary: It is recommended that preliminary site design also considers emergency access and rescue requirements of the Building
Code for townhouses
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

A detached rowhouse is one unit within a set of three or more detached dwelling units
, where each unit is on an individual lot and the units are lined up in a row, but the units do not share side walls.
1. A detached rowhouse shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Detached Rowhouse Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 121 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 201 |
Street Yard | 5 | 5 |
Street Yard | 0 | 0 |
Rear Yard | 20 | 20 |
Rear Yard | 0 | 0 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. 4 The rear yard | ||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Commentary: It is recommended that preliminary site design also considers emergency access and rescue requirements of the Building
Code for townhouses
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

A multiplex is a multifamily
housing type with three or four individual units on a single lot. Individual units can be attached or detached, and can be located on separate floors or side-by-side. Parking is often shared in a single consolidated area, even when garages and carports are used.
A multiplex shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Multiplex Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Lot Dimensions (min.) | ||
Lot Width | 70 | 50 |
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 251,2 | 51 |
Street Yard | 251,3 | 51 |
5 | 5 | |
Rear Yard | 10 | 10 |
Distance between Building | 12 | 0 |
Building Separation | 10 | 10 |
1 Yard 2 Yards 3 Front vehicular access can be reduced to as little as 20 feet if the structures are located interior to a project and do not front on a street classified as a collector or greater. | ||
Where an improved and maintained alley
is provided, all vehicular access shall be taken from the alley
.
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.

An apartment is a multifamily
housing type on a single tract
or parcel
of land containing five or more units. Apartments can vary in height; the individual units can be attached or detached and located on separate floors or side-by-side and can be attached or detached.
Apartments shall be permitted in accordance with the table below.
Apartment Standards | Suburban | Urban and Compact Neighborhood |
|---|---|---|
Lot Dimensions | ||
Lot Width | 75 | 75 |
Yards | ||
Street Yard | 25 | 5 |
5 | 5 | |
Side Yard | 8 | 8 |
Rear Yard | 25 | 20 |
Distance between Building | 12 | 0 |
Building Separation | 10 | 10 |
1 Yard | ||
Common recreation areas, such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and/or tennis, volleyball, or basketball courts, shall be oriented
internally or along major roadways, and away from residential development
on neighboring properties. All such facilities shall be visible from and have substantial access to a street.
Open space
adds to the visual character and uniqueness of each development
and allows for recreational and aesthetic enjoyment by the residents. In the Rural Tier, open space
is intended to serve as land preserved for passive enjoyment. In the Suburban and Urban Tiers, improved open space
provides centrally located community gathering spots, and play spaces that are integral to the livability of the neighborhoods, while the preservation of natural areas ensures habitat. In the Compact Neighborhood Tier, a limited quantity of open space
is required as relief from the intensity of the built environment. Except for paragraph 7.2.5, Ownership and Management of Open Space
, the requirements of this section do not apply to conservation subdivisions
under paragraph 6.2.4, Conservation Subdivision
.
A. Open space
shall be required in all districts in accordance with Article 6, District Intensity Standards, except that certain residential developments
can make payment in lieu of providing required open space
provided that the development
:
1. Is not a conservation subdivision
under paragraph 6.2.4, Conservation Subdivision
;
2. Is not a cluster subdivision
under Sec. 6.7, Cluster Subdivision
;
3. Contains ten or fewer units; and
4. Contains no engineered stormwater
controls.
Payment in lieu of required private open space
for recreational purposes under this section is available in addition to payment-in-lieu available under Sec. 12.4, Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility, and Sec. 12.5, Recreation Land.
B. Payment-in-lieu shall be an amount equivalent to the tax value of the amount of usable property that would have been required for open space
. Payments, when authorized, shall be expended within the respective recreation district within which collected.
C. In Cluster Subdivisions
, the quantity of open space
shall be equal to the reduction in total lot area
, in addition to the open space
required in the zoning districts in Sec. 6.3, Residential Suburban Development
Intensity, Sec. 6.4, Residential Urban Development
Intensity, or Sec. 6.5, Residential Compact Development
Intensity, as applicable.
D. For Design Districts, all open space
requirements shall be pursuant to Article 16, Design Districts, unless otherwise indicated. If conflicts arise between Article 16, Design Districts, and this section, the more stringent regulation shall apply.
CBUs, if required, shall be considered a component of any open space
. However, all applicable development
requirements shall apply.
Where open space
is required, at least one-third shall consist of recreational open space
.
Recreational open space
shall be provided by the type and percentages indicated in the following table:
| Types of Recreational Open Space | Maximum Percent by Tier | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Suburban | Urban | Compact | |
Property developed | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Benches, picnic tables, shelters | 30% | 30% | 30% |
Publicly accessible plazas and courtyards | – | 100% | 100% |
a. Recreational open space
is not required in the Rural Tier or for development
pursuant to Sec. 6.9, Nonresidential and Group Living Development
in Residential Districts
.
b. The recreational open space
requirement shall not apply to the additional open space
required for a cluster subdivision
. The recreational open space
requirement shall only be applied to the amount that would be provided for a conventional subdivision
.
Except for walking paths and bicycle trails, recreational open space
areas shall have at least one side with street frontage
of at least 50 feet in length, and shall be accessible to residential development
by sidewalks, pursuant to Article 12, Infrastructure and Public Improvement.
a. In the Urban Tier, recreational open space
shall be located so that at least 95% of the residential units in the subdivision
or development
are within a 1,300-foot walking distance of useable open space
.
b. In the Suburban Tier, recreational open space
shall be located so that at least 95% of the residential units in the subdivision
or development
are within a 2,600-foot walking distance of usable open space
.
c. In the MU District, recreational open space
shall be located in a central commons area around which different uses are located.
(1) If the development
is greater than 100 acres, multiple common areas shall be provided.
(2) Central commons areas are not required if the entire mixed use
development
is solely vertically integrated.
B. The remaining required open space
, and 100% of required open space
where recreational open space
is not required as indicated in paragraph 7.2.3A.2, shall consist of the types and percentages indicated in the following table:
| Maximum Percent by Tier | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rural | Suburban | Urban | Compact | |
Natural or Vegetated | ||||
Agriculture, horticulture, silviculture or pasture uses | 100% | 50% | — | — |
Naturally vegetated or revegetated to appear naturally vegetated. | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Severe development | 100% | 50% | 100% | 100% |
Durham Inventory | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Tree protection areas, project boundary buffers | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Recreational | ||||
Property developed | 100% | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Benches, picnic tables, shelters | 100% | 50% | 50% | 50% |
Publicly accessible plazas and courtyards | — | — | 100% | 100% |
Other | ||||
Stormwater | 25% | 25% | 50% | 50% |
Land dedicated | 100% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
C. Notwithstanding the above requirements, area within required riparian buffers can be used to satisfy any open space
requirement.
A dog park or play area used to satisfy the requirements of this section shall be enclosed with a galvanized or coated chain-link fence measuring four to six feet in height and include a double-gate entry system. The following shall also be provided within the area:
1. Seating with benches.
2. A designated pet waste
receptacle.
3. Signage providing City, County, and other applicable rules.
4. At least one of the following:
a. A plumbed drinking water station.
b. A shade area, either with a structure
or mature shade trees
A trail used to satisfy the requirements of this section shall be paved with an all-weather material such as asphalt, concrete, or another similar material that would satisfy the State accessibility code.
a. Gravel is not considered an all-weather surface.
b. Exceptions may be made regarding paving if a trail is proposed in a required riparian buffer
.
A designated pet waste
receptacle must be provided at each trail head.
1. Streets, driveways
, vehicular use areas, and yard
spaces provided for residences shall not be counted toward the open space
requirement.
2. Sidewalks and walkways required pursuant to Section 12.4, Pedestrian and Bicycle Mobility, shall not qualify as “all-weather trails” and shall not be counted towards open space
requirements.
1. Within the Compact Neighborhood Tier other than Design Districts, a horizontal dimension of at least ten feet in all directions shall be the minimum required to be considered open space
.
2. Within the Rural, Suburban, and Urban Tiers, a horizontal dimension of at least 25 feet in all directions shall be the minimum required to be considered open space
.
Unless otherwise noted below, the gross square footage of the open space
area shall be utilized in calculating compliance with open space
requirements.
1. To calculate trails, the square footage of the trail surface shall be used.
2. To calculate benches and picnic tables, the square footage of each amenity plus a two-foot wide walk zone around each amenity shall be used.
3. To calculate playgrounds
, the square footage of each playground
structure
plus a six-foot wide walk zone around each structure
shall be used.
4. Areas of overlapping walk zones shall be counted once.
A. Land set aside as open space
in residential developments
shall be held in common ownership or dedicated
to the public rather than platted
as part of individual private lots.
B. Prior to approval of a final plat
, a program for continued maintenance of all open space
areas shall be submitted. The submission shall include agreements, contracts, deed restrictions, sureties, or other legal instruments acceptable to the City or County, as appropriate, to guarantee the provision and continued maintenance of such common areas and facilities.
C. The open space
shall be protected in perpetuity by a binding legal instrument that is recorded with the deed. The instrument shall be one of the following:
1. A permanent conservation easement
in favor of either:
a. A land trust or similar conservation-oriented non-profit organization with legal authority to accept such easements
(the organization shall be bona fide and in perpetual existence and the conveyance instruments shall contain an appropriate provision for retransfer in the event the organization becomes unable to carry out its functions). If the entity accepting the easement
is not the City or the County, then a third party right of enforcement favoring the City or the County shall be included in the easement
; or
b. A governmental entity with an interest in pursuing goals compatible with the purposes of this section acceptable to the City or County, as appropriate.
2. A permanent restrictive covenant for conservation purposes in favor of a governmental entity.
3. An equivalent legal tool that provides permanent protection, if approved by the City or County, as appropriate.
4. Dedication
of the land to an established homeowner’s association (with legal standing in the property) that accepts permanent maintenance responsibility.
D. The instrument for permanent protection shall include clear restrictions on the use of the open space
. These restrictions shall include all restrictions contained in this Article, as well as any further restrictions the applicant chooses to place on the use of the open space
.
E. Open space
that has been dedicated
to an established homeowner's association can be transferred with a permanent conservation easement
to a land trust or similar conservation-oriented non-profit organization with legal authority to accept such easements
pursuant to paragraph 7.2.5C.1.a above.
A. Except in Design Districts, this section applies to all nonresidential, non-industrial facilities with exterior elevations that are greater than 100 feet in total length or diameter and visible from a public right-of-way
or from adjacent
residential development
.
B. All applicable structures shall be required to incorporate variations in the façades and roofline in order to ensure visual interest by the following standards:
1. Incorporate variations in the façade, such as recesses and projections, door and window rhythm, or other architectural detailing. Changes of materials can also be used to meet this requirement so long as materials changes occur at a change of plane, such as a recess, projection, or inside corner; and
2. Incorporate variations in the roofline treatment, such as stepped parapets, multiple roof forms, dormers, and corner tower elements.
1. Canopies in nonresidential zones can extend into the required yard
but shall be at least five feet from any property line and shall not project into any utility easement
.
2. Display or storage shall not be permitted as the primary use under the canopy
unless outdoor displays and outdoor storage are allowed in the zoning district in accordance with Sec. 7.5, Outdoor Display and Storage.
1. The maximum distance to the highest point on the fascia shall be 19-1/2 feet as measured from the highest point of the highest grade
under the canopy
.
2. All light fixtures mounted in fuel canopies shall be recessed.
The purpose of these standards is to assure that adequate exterior lighting is provided for nonresidential and multifamily
developments
to facilitate crime prevention, security, and safe passage, and that exterior lights be shielded so that the light cast beyond the property line does not exceed the limits in accordance with these standards.
A. Adequate lighting shall be provided in nonresidential and multifamily
developments
conforming to professional engineering standards.
B. The following shall be exempt from these provisions:
1. Outdoor lights used for a temporary event; permitted through a temporary use permit.
2. Outdoor lights used exclusively for recreational activities, concerts, plays or other outdoor events that are open to the public, provided that the light fixtures are located at least 100 feet from any adjacent
residential use and the event or function meets all other applicable zoning requirements. Time limits are as follows:
a. No limits within the UC, UC-2, and DD Districts.
b. In all other districts, lights shall not be illuminated between the weekday hours of 12:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. and between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
c. In the I, IL, and IP Districts, illumination may be extended until 3:00 a.m. on weekdays and 5:00 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday with the approval of a minor special use permit per Sec. 3.9, Special Use Permit. Additionally, the review factors in paragraph 3.9.8B, Review Factors, to be considered shall be limited to paragraphs 3.9.8B.4, Lighting; 3.9.8B.10, Effect on Nearby Properties; 3.9.8B.11, Compatibility; and 3.9.8B.12, Consistency with Policy.
3. Outdoor lighting exempted pursuant to 1 and 2 above shall only be illuminated while the activity takes place and during high traffic periods immediately before and after the event.
A. All site lighting shall be designed so that the level of illumination as measured in foot-candles (fc) at all points meets the standards in the table below with minimum and maximum levels measured on the pavement within the lighted area.
Type of Lighting | LIGHT LEVEL (in foot-candles) | |
|---|---|---|
Minimum at Any Point | Maximum at Any Point | |
Architectural Lighting, Landscape or Decorative Lighting, Walkways except for those listed below | 0.0 | 5.0 |
Canopy | 2.0 | 24.0 |
| Pedestrian Passages | 1.0 | 15.0 |
0.5 | 8.0 | |
Nonresidential and Multifamily | 1.0 | 15.0 |
Nonresidential Parking Lot | 0.5 | 10.0 |
On-site walkways between building | 0.2 | 5.0 |
Storage Area (security lighting) | 0.5 | 10.0 |
Vehicle | 0.5 | 24.0 |
B. The maximum illumination permitted at the edge of a property line shall be as set forth below. Where a development
is unified with shared parking or other measures shown on a site plan
, the maximum illumination levels shall apply only to the exterior lot lines of the project (any interior lot lines shall be exempt from this paragraph).
1. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to a residential zoning district shall be 0.5 foot-candles.
2. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to nonresidential zoning district shall be 5.0 foot-candles.
3. The maximum illumination at the edge of the property line adjacent
to a street shall be 5.0 foot-candles.
The maximum height for directional or full cut-off lighting fixtures (fixtures designed to ensure that no light is emitted above a horizontal line parallel to the ground) shall be:
1. Thirty feet above grade
if located at least 50 feet from a residential property line; and
2. Fifteen feet above grade
if located within 50 feet of a residential property line.
The maximum height for non-directional lighting fixtures (fixtures designed to allow light to be emitted above a horizontal line parallel to the ground) shall be 15 feet above grade
. Non-directional lighting fixtures shall be translucent or have baffles to prevent views of the light source.
Under canopy
lighting shall be restricted to lighting fixtures (including lenses) that do not project below the bottom of the canopy
.
Lighting shall be oriented
not to direct glare or excessive illumination onto streets and adjacent
residences.
Lighting fixtures used to accent architectural features, landscaping or art shall be located, aimed or shielded to minimize light spill into the night sky.
Blinking or flashing lights shall be prohibited unless the lights are required as a safety feature (e.g. beacons on towers) or permitted as part of a sign
in accordance with Article 11, Sign Standards.
Lighting fixtures existing as of June 12, 2000 may remain, and shall be considered nonconforming structures. Modifications, replacement or expansions, shall conform to the standards of this Ordinance.
A. Regulations governing outdoor storage and display shall apply in all non-residential districts.
B. Outdoor storage regulations shall not apply to agricultural uses
pursuant to Sec. 5.1, Use Table.
A. Outdoor display is defined as the display of products actively available for sale, but does not include products in closed boxes, crates, other kinds of shipping containers, or uses considered outdoor storage in accordance with paragraph 7.5.3, Outdoor Storage, below.
B. Except in association with agricultural uses
, outdoor display shall be indicated on a site plan
illustrating the extent of the permitted area for outdoor display pursuant to the standards below:
1. All products displayed shall be located outdoors only during the hours the use is open for business;
2. The display area shall be located no closer than five feet from any public entrance;
3. The display area shall occupy no more than 50% of the building
frontage;
4. The display area shall not block
sidewalks or parking areas, and shall not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation; and
5. The display area shall not be located in a public right-of-way
except in the Downtown Tier, subject to other applicable requirements.
C. For outdoor display associated with agricultural uses
pursuant to Sec. 5.1, Use Table, only the following shall apply.
1. No site plan
is required.
2. Outdoor display areas shall not block
sidewalks or parking areas, and shall not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation; and
3. Outdoor display areas shall not be located in a public right-of-way
except in the Downtown Tier, subject to other applicable requirements.
Outdoor storage is more intensive than outdoor display. Materials stored in outdoor storage are not normally brought indoors overnight.
1. Class A outdoor storage is defined as garden supplies, building
supplies, plants, vehicle
sales and services, manufactured home sales, play equipment, and other similar items.
2. Areas used for Class A outdoor storage shall be permitted following review and approval of a site plan
illustrating the extent of the area proposed for outdoor storage, provided it meets the following standards:
a. No outdoor storage shall be allowed in street yards
or within 15 feet of any public right-of-way
, whichever is greater.
b. No outdoor storage shall be permitted within required vehicular use areas.
c. Outdoor storage can be located to the side of a building
, provided it is not located within the side yard
.
d. Any rear yard
can be used for outdoor storage purposes, except in the SRP District.
1. Class B outdoor storage is defined as material stored in crates, boxes, or shipping containers; lumber yards
; pipe; wrecking, junk, and salvage yards
; vehicle storage yards
; and other similar uses.
2. In addition to the requirements of paragraph B.2 above, areas used for Class B outdoor storage shall be screened
from view from the public right-of-way
, public vehicular use areas, or adjacent
residential development
pursuant to Sec. 9.7, Screening
.
1. Outdoor storage shall not be permitted in required yards
.
2. Outdoor storage shall be screened
according to Class B standards.
This section shall apply to all on-site solid waste
, utility, and other mechanical equipment facilities serving non-residential and multifamily
development
. Pet waste
receptacles shall be provided pursuant to Sec. 7.2.3 Design and Use
of Required Open Space
, and 7.6.5 Pet Waste
Receptacles.
A. All utilities (including heating or air conditioning units and other mechanical equipment) and solid waste
collection facilities shall be located on the same lot as the use served. Off-site solid waste
collection facilities are allowed with documentation of a shared facility agreement between property owners
.
B. Such facilities shall be located beyond the minimum or maximum street yard
, as applicable.
All screening
of utility and solid waste facilities
shall be pursuant to Sec. 9.7, Screening
.
A. All required solid waste
collection facilities shall be designed with appropriate means of access to a street or alley
in a manner that will least interfere with traffic movement, and will most facilitate the service of the facilities. Site design shall not create a condition that requires solid waste
collection vehicles
to back out of sites.
B. When the service side is visible from an adjacent
property line, or adjacent
public streets or public trails, access gates or doors with opacity
of at least 85% shall be required.
C. Space allocated to any solid waste facility
shall not be used to satisfy the space requirements for off-street parking or loading facilities, nor shall any parking or loading spaces be used to satisfy the space requirements for any solid waste facility
.
D. All solid waste
collection facilities shall be designed to prevent wind-blown debris from leaving the site.
E. All food-related businesses shall provide water quality treatment in conformance with applicable standards and design guidelines for runoff
from solid waste
collection facilities.
For Design Districts, additional requirements shall apply pursuant to Sec. 16.2, Site Design.
A. Pet waste
receptacles must be provided in all residential developments
that require preliminary plat
approval and are located outside the design district zoning districts.
B. Pet waste
receptacles shall be placed on land in residential developments
held in common ownership or dedicated
to the public.
1. Pet waste
receptacles shall be placed within two feet of a sidewalk and/or internal walkway.
2. At least two pet waste
receptacles shall be provided for developments
with 90 or fewer dwelling units
. For developments
with 91 or more dwelling units
, at least 3 receptacles shall be provided.
A. The term flag in this section shall mean a piece of fabric or other flexible material solely containing distinctive colors, patterns, standards, words, or emblems used as a symbol of an organization or entity, including but not limited to political jurisdictions, such as the United States.
B. Flags displaying a logo, message, statement, or expression relating to commercial interests, and banners otherwise not meeting the definition of a flag shall also conform with all sign
regulations in Article 11, Sign Standards.
C. Reference to flagpole height refers to vertical flagpoles.
D. References to the number of flags and flagpoles and flag dimensions refer to both vertical flagpoles and mast arm flagpoles, such as staffs extending at an angle from a building
.
A. Except as otherwise provided herein flags shall be displayed on flagpoles.
B. In nonresidential zoning districts, flagpoles shall not exceed the maximum height allowed in the zoning district or 70 feet, whichever is less.
C. Flagpoles shall not be placed on top of buildings unless they are located in the Downtown Tier.
D. In residential districts
, flagpoles shall not exceed 25 feet in height unless a special use permit is granted by the Board of Adjustment. A fee shall not be charged for a use permit request for a flag in a residential district
.
E. A vertical flag pole shall be set back from all property boundaries a distance which is at least equal to the height of the pole.
F. The maximum dimensions of any flag shall be proportional to the flagpole height. In addition, flags are subject to the following dimensional limitations.
Pole Height (feet) | Max. Flag Size |
|---|---|
Up to 25 | 24 |
25 to 29 | 28 |
30 to 34 | 40 |
35 to 39 | 60 |
40 to 49 | 96 |
50 to 59 | 150 |
60 to 70 | 216 |
G. Each property shall be allowed a maximum of three flagpoles unless a special use permit is granted by the Board of Adjustment.
H. A maximum of three flags shall be allowed per flagpole.
I. The flag and flagpole shall be maintained in good repair. A flagpole with broken halyards shall not be used and flags which are torn or frayed shall not be displayed.
J. On United States and North Carolina holidays, there shall be no maximum flag size or number or other limitations on manner of display.
K. This section shall not be interpreted to restrict the right to display eligible flags as banners or noncommercial signage under Article 11, Sign Standards. Flags mounted directly on a building
wall shall expressly be considered signs
and shall be subject to Article 11, Sign Standards.
Any activity which releases smoke, particulate matter, gases or contaminants into the atmosphere shall comply with all applicable federal and State regulations.
All activities shall comply with the Fire Codes of the appropriate jurisdiction.
All activities shall comply at a minimum with all applicable State and federal regulations as well as the appropriate County Health Department regulations and City and County fire department regulations for hazardous materials
and wastes
.
All activities shall control electromagnetic frequencies so that there is no interference in the operation of equipment off-site and no adverse effects to persons
off-site.
Any activity which discharges material or liquids into sanitary sewers shall conform with all federal, State and local discharge and release regulations. City and County sanitation ordinances may also apply. All storage areas, waste
disposal
areas, and trash handling facilities shall be designed to prevent wind blown debris from leaving the site. The drainage of waste
or stored materials onto adjacent
properties or directly into creeks and watercourses
or into the stormwater
conveyance system is prohibited. Only uncontaminated stormwater runoff
may be discharged into the stormwater
conveyance system.
All activities shall comply with all federal and State regulations which apply to the handling, storage, and disposal
of nuclear material
.
Noise shall be regulated by Article II, Noise, of Chapter 26, Environment, Litter, Vandalism and Pollution the Durham City Code or Article II of Chapter 14 (Environment) of the Durham County Code, as appropriate.
All activity shall comply with any applicable State or federal building
code and accessibility regulations, as determined by the City-County Inspections Department.
A. The establishment and/or disturbance of cemetery
sites shall be in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
B. For development
on property abutting or containing an established cemetery
, a field survey shall be provided to identify the extent of the cemetery
and any potential unmarked gravesites.
C. Public access shall be maintained to any property containing a cemetery
.
A. Development
projects utilizing mass grading
shall maintain a minimum 10-foot undisturbed grading
setback
from all exterior boundaries of the development
site.
B. Grading
for a development
site that does not qualify as mass grading
shall maintain a minimum five-foot undisturbed grading
setback
from all exterior boundaries of the development
, except for along the street frontage
.
C. Allowed disturbance within grading
setbacks
shall be as follows, unless other encroachments
are otherwise allowed within this Ordinance:
1. Planting of required landscaping to meet other Ordinance requirements.
2. Grading
necessary to accommodate the construction of a trail.
3. Grading
necessary to accommodate required access, utilities, and infrastructure.
4. Grading
necessary to accommodate positive drainage away from the foundation of structures. Grading
for this purpose shall be allowed to encroach
two feet into any required grading
setback
.
D. Failure to maintain the grading
setbacks
will require a revegetation plan pursuant to paragraph 9.5.3B.2.