This chapter establishes the site development plan requirement, as well as its approval procedures and certain substantive standards. The site development plan requirements established herein seek to balance individual preference with community benefits that are derived from safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing site improvements. Landscape and site design improvements contribute to safe surroundings for the community, enhance the livability of residential neighborhoods, improve the appearance of land and customer attraction to commercial areas, increase property values, enhance the compatibility of adjacent land uses, screen undesirable views, reduce air, light, and noise pollution, and contribute to the image and appeal of the community for both residents and nonresidents.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Approval required. Except as provided in subsection (2), below, site development plan (SDP) approval is required prior to:

(a)

Construction of new buildings or parking areas; and

(b)

Substantial alterations to existing buildings, parking areas, or loading areas.

(2)

Exceptions. Site development plan approval is not required for:

(a)

Construction of or substantial alterations to a single household residence on a single lot or parcel in the residential estate (RE), limited industrial (M1), general industrial (M2), agricultural (AG), conservation (CO), or planned unit development (PUD) (unless the PUD official development plan or approval document specifies that an SDP is required) zoning district; and

(b)

Construction of or substantial alterations to a two-household dwelling on a single lot or parcel in the residential estate (RE), limited industrial (M1), general industrial (M2), agricultural (AG), conservation (CO), or planned unit development (PUD) (unless the PUD official development plan or approval document specifies that an SDP is required) zoning district.

(3)

Application of site development standards.

(a)

Generally. The applicable site development standards and guidelines set forth in this chapter are in addition to any other site development standards and guidelines of this title that may otherwise be applicable to a particular property or geographic area of the city.

(b)

Development subject to chapter 18.58. Properties subject to the requirements of chapter 18.58 of the Municipal Code shall be reviewed for compliance therewith; such review may proceed concurrently with site development plan review under this chapter.

(c)

Development within form zones. The following site development standards apply to site development plans within form zones:

1.

For all form types, sections 18.40.212; 18.40.240 to 18.40.242, inclusive; 18.40.270; 18.40.272; and 18.40.292.

2.

For row house, main street, mixed-use, and shop building form types, sections 18.40.340 to 18.40.350, inclusive.

3.

For house, cottage, compound, cluster, and duplex form types, sections 18.40.340 to 18.40.350, inclusive, do not apply; such forms are subject to chapter 18.24.

4.

For property that is located within the Clear Creek corridor that is used for nonresidential or multifamily purposes, division V of this chapter.

(d)

Development within legacy use zones. The site development standards and guidelines set out in divisions II through IV of this chapter, inclusive, apply to site development plans that are within the legacy use zones. The site development standards and guidelines set out in division V of this chapter 18.40 apply to site development plans for nonresidential or multifamily uses on property within a legacy use zone that is also located within the Clear Creek corridor.

(e)

Planned unit development. The site development standards and guidelines set out in appendix A to this chapter 18.40, "Legacy PUD Standards", apply to site development plans within planned unit development zoning districts that are approved as of June 26, 2023, unless otherwise specifically provided in the PUD official development plan or approval documents. The site development standards and guidelines set out in division V of this chapter 18.40 apply to PUDs for nonresidential or multifamily uses on property that is located within the Clear Creek corridor, unless otherwise specifically provided in the PUD official development plan or approval documents.

(f)

Changes to existing downtown buildings. Where changes to an existing building in the downtown area described in appendix A, section A-1.1(1) are proposed, the standards and guidelines of appendix A, division A-1, downtown standards and guidelines, shall be applied in lieu of the standards of chapter 18.29, provided that the changes do not involve an increase in building height.

(g)

Colorado School of Mines. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this title, including this chapter, the development or redevelopment by the Colorado School of the Mines of property subject to the land development and planning process set forth in that certain intergovernmental agreement between the Colorado School of Mines and the City of Golden regarding coordination of campus capital construction, dated April 29, 2021, shall be reviewed in accordance with said process and shall be exempt from the site development plan review process in this chapter until such time as said agreement expires or is terminated by a party thereto in accordance with the agreement.

(h)

Effect on vested property rights. Approval of a site development plan pursuant to this chapter shall not constitute a vested right to develop the property in accordance with the approved plan pursuant to C.R.S. § 24-68-101, et seq. or otherwise. Unless specific action is taken by city council, in accordance with the provisions of chapter 18.66 of this title, a site development plan approved pursuant to this chapter shall not constitute a site specific development plan as that term is utilized in C.R.S. § 24-68- 101, et seq.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

All improvements indicated on an approved site development plan shall be completed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion. However, if all conditions necessary for issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion are met except landscape and other site improvements unrelated to vehicular access, stormwater quality and storm drainage facilities, site grading, and retaining walls, a temporary or final certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion may be issued. In that event, all improvements must be completed by the next planting season within a time frame established by the director, but in no case to exceed 180 days after issuance of the temporary or final certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion. As a condition of issuance of the temporary or final certificate of occupancy or certificate of completion, project completion shall be guaranteed by the filing of a performance guarantee with the city in a form and amount as would be necessary to ensure completion of the improvements, and with such surety as are authorized to secure development agreements pursuant to Golden Municipal Code section 17.50.110. Such guarantee shall be held until after the installation of the affected improvements and satisfactory inspection by the city.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

The owner of record of the property or, upon proof of legal authority and owner consent, the purchaser under a contract to acquire the property, a tenant of the property, or a duly authorized agent of the owner of record, may file an application under this chapter.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

See section 18.10.040 for pre-application procedures.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

See section 18.10.040 for neighborhood meeting procedures.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

See chapter 18.10 for application requirements.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

See chapter 18.10.040 for process.

(2)

An application may be withdrawn by an applicant at any time. To reinitiate review, the applicant shall resubmit the application, which in all respects shall be treated as a new application.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

See chapter 18.10.040 for review procedures and hearing procedures upon referal.

(a)

Following the close of the public hearing, planning commission shall approve, approve with conditions, or deny the application based on its compliance with applicable standards of this title, including, as applicable, those set out in chapter 18.29. The planning commission may, in its discretion, continue such hearing for up to 70 days to allow the applicant to submit additional evidence and arguments that address any specific issues or concerns expressed by planning commission as to whether compliance with applicable standards has been achieved or, if applicable, whether substantial compliance with the design guidelines contained in this chapter has been achieved. The planning commission shall make the final determination as to which items within the guidelines section are applicable to the site development plan.

(3)

Site development plans shall be approved if they are complete in form, meet all applicable standards of this title 18, and with respect to site development plans for properties in legacy use zones, substantially comply with design guidelines contained in this chapter. For the purposes of determining whether a site development plan for property in a legacy use zone "substantially complies" with the design guidelines of this chapter, "substantial compliance" with the design guidelines of this chapter means that the site development plan complies with a simple majority or more than 50 percent of the applicable items within a section or like sections labelled "guidelines."

(4)

If the director approves a site development plan for a property within a form zone, the decision shall not be deemed final, and building permits shall not be issued, until the decision has been posted for 21 days on the city's website as provided in subsection (5), below, and no call-up has been requested pursuant to section 18.40.045 within that time.

(5)

Notice of the director's decision on a site development plan application shall be provided to the applicant by electronic mail or first class U.S. mail. In addition, notice of the director's approval of a site development plan for a property within a form zone shall be provided as follows:

(a)

Upon approving the site development plan, the written decision shall be published on the city's web site.

(b)

Upon posting the decision of approval to the city's website, the director shall provide notice of the approval by electronic mail to the members of city council and members of the planning commission, which notice shall direct said members to the written decision and materials on the city's website.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Any two members of city council may request that the director's approval of a site development plan for property within a form zone be called up for review by planning commission (a "call-up").

(2)

To initiate a call-up, a written request for a call-up, submitted by two members of city council, shall be filed with the city clerk within 21 days after notice is published to the city's website pursuant to section 18.40.040(5). The written request need only specify the site development plan approval for which call-up is being requested; however, the written request may, in the requesting members' discretion, direct planning commission to limit its review to specific approval criteria only, in which case planning commission review shall be limited to the specified scope.

(3)

The planning commission shall hold a public hearing on the call-up within 45 days after the written request is filed with the city clerk, unless an extended period is established with the applicant's written consent.

(4)

Notice of the public hearing: See section 18.10.040 for notice procedures.

1.

Standard mail notice pursuant to section 18.10.020;

2.

Posted notice pursuant to section 18.10.030; and

3.

Electronic published notice pursuant to section 18.10.040.

(5)

The scope of the planning commission's review shall be limited to whether the site development plan is in compliance with applicable standards. At the close of the public hearing, the planning commission shall affirm the decision of the director, affirm the decision with conditions to ensure compliance with the applicable standards, approve an alternative site development plan that complies with applicable standards, approve the site development plan with an adjustment (pursuant to division VII of chapter 18.29) or variance (pursuant to chapter 18.40) that brings the site development plan into compliance with applicable standards, or reverse the decision of the director.

(6)

A decision on a call-up shall require a majority of a quorum of the planning commission.

(Ord. No. 2252, § 8(Exh. G), 1-28-2025; Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A request for call-up review shall automatically stay all actions on the site development plan, including the issuance of building permits; and neither the applicant nor the city may rely upon the site development plan decision until the call-up review process has terminated or been completed.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Applications for relief from the standards and guidelines set out in division II through division VI, inclusive, of this chapter 18.40 and division V of chapter 18.29 shall be processed as provided in chapter 18.12.

(2)

Applications for relief from the standards set out in division III, division IV, and division VI of chapter 18.29 shall be processed as provided in chapter 18.29.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Amendments to an approved site development plan shall be subject to the same application, review, call-up, and appeal process applicable to the original site development plan, except that. amendments that are processed as minor adjustments pursuant to division VII of chapter 18.29 are not subject to the call-up procedures of section 18.40.045.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Drafter's Note: Mitigation of highway noise standards are set out in section 18.40.270 et seq.

Sections 18.40.210 through 18.40.532 contain standards and guidelines for design and construction of site development improvements.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines and standards for drainage and grading are set out in sections 18.40.211 and 18.40.212, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Projects should be designed to minimize cut and fill areas. Excessive cut and fill is discouraged especially in locations of limited or difficult access. Special care should be taken to final grade all disturbed areas to a natural appearing configuration. Techniques to soften the visual impact of long or high slope banks should be used and include terracing, varying slope heights, contour grading, rounding tops and bottoms of slopes, and screening with landscaping.

(2)

Stormwater detention areas should be designed to be compatible with the neighborhood interests, to minimize public health impacts, and with an attempt to double as recreation uses for the neighborhood.

(3)

To the greatest extent possible, impervious surfaces should be minimized and mitigated. Drainage in paved parking lots should slope towards on-site landscaping areas.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

The grading of the site must conform to the city's engineering regulations, and must be designed to minimize reshaping of landforms and fit the development to the site terrain.

(2)

Stormwater quality measures shall be integrated into the design. Where open space areas are required, the design must allow, at a minimum, the first inch of stormwater runoff (precipitation) to travel through swales, rain gardens, or other permeable surfaces. See the Stormwater Quality Management and applicable sections of the Urban Drainage Storm Criteria Manual Volume 3, as amended, for further explanation. Swales must be planted with xeric species, unless shown to be infeasible due to site specific conditions. All measures shall be designed to promote water quality of stormwater run-off through the use of best management practices, as defined by the urban drainage and flood control district and the city.

(3)

Maintenance and upkeep of stormwater detention and water quality improvements as required by the city are a continuing obligation of the homeowner or homeowner association. Unless amendments to the approved plans are approved by the city, the owner(s) shall provide maintenance to the improvements as needed to maintain compliance with the approved plans.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Landscaping improvements are an important part of the overall site design and should be used to integrate a development into its setting. It is the intent of this chapter that development plans include landscape elements that contribute positively to the character of neighborhoods, in that they:

(a)

Enhance the human scale of the building.

(b)

Provide a transition between different use areas.

(c)

Screen views of unsightly elements, such as utility boxes and parking areas.

(d)

Create usable pedestrian areas.

(e)

Are designed to facilitate water efficiency.

(f)

Define specific areas and enhance architectural features.

(2)

The intent statements of this section 18.40.220 shall not be construed as requirements or guidelines.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Landscaping to be installed should be of a sufficient quantity and size to:

(a)

Help screen buildings from adjoining properties.

(b)

Screen parking areas from roads and neighboring properties.

(c)

Provide a landscaped area between residential properties and the street, including trees and other landscape materials.

(d)

Screen developments on slopes of over 15 percent.

(2)

Trees should be located on a site to emphasize passive solar gain. Deciduous trees that shade in the summer and allow sunlight to pass through their limbs in the winter are recommended for the south side of the building. Vegetation on the east and west sides of the building should be chosen and placed to reduce summer sun from entering windows. Evergreen trees that buffer from cold winds, snow, and ice, are recommended for the north facade of the building. Decisions should also take into account the effects on solar access with regard to neighboring properties.

(3)

Trees that must be removed on site due to demonstrated hardship should be mulched.

(4)

Plant materials may be integrated into groupings, and need not be uniformly distributed throughout the site. An ideal design would balance distribution with grouping.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Landscaping specifications.

(a)

Prior to planting and installing irrigation systems, all sites for plantings shall incorporate soil amendments at a rate of three cubic yards per 1,000 square feet to a depth of at least six inches. Existing topsoil shall be salvaged and stockpiled for use in amending area soil. All landscape and erosion control plans shall contain a note to this effect. Prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy, certification must be provided to the city certifying that such amendments have been installed.

(b)

Turf areas and live planting areas in excess of 100 square feet in area shall be served by a permanently installed irrigation system unless exempted by the director, based upon a determination that such an irrigation system is unnecessary as a result of the size, location or alternate maintenance accommodations applicable to the area.

(c)

A solid fence or wall eight feet in height shall be part of a ten-foot-wide buffer strip between commercial, industrial, governmental, or public assembly uses and residential uses. This fence may be reduced in height to as little as five feet by the director, if the director determines that site considerations, including, but not limited to, topographic differences between the lots, and setbacks of the proposed building warrant such reduction. Landscaping shall be used in combination with the fence or wall to soften the appearance of the buffer. A solid hedge of a minimum of five feet in height, after three growing seasons, may be used in lieu of a fence if the commercial/industrial, governmental or public assembly use does not generate noise or emissions and if no loading or access activities occur adjacent to the residential use. Berms may be used as buffers provided that such berm shall not exceed a slope of 3:1.

(d)

The minimum size and characteristics of plant and other landscape materials at the time of planting or installation, shall be as follows:

1.

Deciduous trees: Two and one-half-inch caliper, measured one-foot above-ground.

2.

Evergreen trees: Six feet in height.

3.

Evergreen and deciduous shrubs and hedges: Five-gallon container size.

4.

Ground covers and vines: One gallon size, except for prostrate junipers and other shrub like ground covers that shall be five-gallon size.

5.

Wood chip mulch: Minimum three inches depth.

6.

Rock or stone mulch: Two-inch minimum to cobble size, minimum three inches in depth.

(e)

Plant material located within an applicable sight distance area, as defined by the City of Golden Street, Sidewalk and Drainage Specifications, shall conform to the requirements of said document.

(f)

A performance warranty in the amount of 20 percent of the cost of installation of landscaping shall be provided to the city for projects where the cost of landscaping exceeds $25,000.00. This performance warranty shall be held until completion of the first full growing season after the growing season of installation, and shall assure the replacement of any dead or diseased plant material.

(g)

Species shall be mixed in such a manner as to provide a combination of evergreen and deciduous plantings, shade trees and ornamental trees and bushes.

(h)

All open storage areas shall be screened from public rights-of-way or adjacent property by use of landscaping, berms or a combination of landscaping and other structural elements to a height of six feet.

(i)

Any site contiguous to or facing any residential zone or residential use shall screen its parking areas, loading docks or similar uses through the use of landscaping elements to a height of four feet.

(j)

At least 50 percent of required landscape planting areas, exclusive of hardscape, shall be irrigation zoned for, and planted with, xeric species. Applicants should cross-reference the City of Golden Recommended Plant List for plant selection.

(k)

Landscape plan shall demonstrate that irrigation systems are designed to minimize overspray and water waste through use of automatic controllers, rain sensors, moisture sensors and, for non-turf areas, subsurface drip systems.

(l)

Healthy existing mature trees (three-inch caliper or greater) shall be preserved on site unless sufficient hardship can be demonstrated. If trees must be removed, two must be planted (two and one-half-inch caliper or greater) for every one that is taken, in addition to compliance with all other tree requirements. No substitutions for trees allowed. Trees that are identified as nuisance or invasive species by the city or the State of Colorado are not subject to tree replacement requirements.

(2)

Landscaping the streetscape.

(a)

A street landscape area averaging 25 feet, but no less than 15 feet in width as measured from the proposed curb line shall be required of all properties abutting an arterial or collector street. Required pedestrian walks and bikeways are included in the streetscape measurement.

(b)

A street landscape area averaging 20 feet, but no less than 12 feet in width as measured from the proposed curb line shall be required of all properties abutting local streets. Required pedestrian walks and bikeways are included in the streetscape measurement.

(c)

Deciduous shade trees shall be planted parallel to the adjoining street or streets such that a canopy of foliage will form over the streets. One tree shall be planted in this manner for each 35 feet of street frontage. Clustering of trees and the introduction of coniferous trees may be permitted by the director. Ground cover and/or shrubs shall also be planted in the street side landscaping strip in which the trees are placed. All efforts should be made to preserve existing trees unless the application demonstrates site restrictions which would require their removal.

(3)

Landscaping parking areas.

(a)

In addition to the street trees required above in subsection 18.40.222(2), trees shall be provided at a rate of one tree per five parking spaces or fraction thereof. These trees shall be placed within or immediately adjacent to the parking lot.

(b)

Properties for which on-site parking of 20 or more automobiles is required shall also provide a landscaped area equal to ten percent of the total paved parking area, which landscaped area shall count toward the requirement of section 18.40.232. The landscaped area shall be distributed throughout the paved parking area, and shall include trees, shrubs, and ground covers. Landscaped areas shall be served with an operating irrigation system. In no instance shall more than 25 parking spaces occur in a row without the provision of a landscape island. Landscape areas in parking lots shall be no smaller than 80 square feet each, and shall contain at least one tree and five shrubs for each island. Islands larger than 80 square feet shall contain one additional shrub for each additional 20 square feet of area, and one additional tree for each additional 200 square feet of area.

(4)

Landscaping obligation.

(a)

Provisions for landscaping, screening and maintenance are a continuing obligation of the property owner, and where approved trees, shrubs or other landscaping materials die or are removed, it shall be the responsibility of the applicant to replace them with materials of a comparable nature and size to those originally approved. Replacement shall occur in the next planting season, but in any event, such replacement time shall not exceed one year. Any replacement which conforms to the requirements of this section shall not be considered an amendment to the site plan.

(b)

City right-of-way, or the area between the road and the property line, shall be maintained by the owner of the adjoining property.

(c)

The owner of the property, his successors, lessees, heirs and assigns shall be responsible for the proper maintenance of the area subject to an approved site plan. That area shall be deemed to include an area as measured from the back of the curb line to, and including all areas subject to the approved site plan. Landscaping shall be regularly maintained including necessary watering, weeding, pruning, pest control and replacement of dead or diseased plant material.

(5)

[Final plan.] The final landscape plan for commercial and mixed use and multifamily residential projects shall be prepared and stamped by a Colorado licensed landscape architect.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines and standards for open space are set out in sections 18.40.231 and 18.40.232, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Open space should provide visual breaks in the landscape, link development clusters, and provide enhanced pedestrian circulation within and between developments.

(2)

Open space areas should be usable for visitors to or inhabitants of the structures within the lot and be designed to promote outdoor activity.

(3)

When adjacent to a street, outdoor areas should be buffered with architectural features and landscaping.

(4)

Common open space areas should be sited to take advantage of and help preserve views of significant architectural and landscape features within the site.

(5)

Drainage systems should be designed to be multi-functional and integrated with open space as seamlessly as possible. Detention areas should be aesthetically pleasing as well as provide multiple use open space opportunities. Examples include creating level but sunken "percolation parks," and breaking up impervious surfaces to promote on-site infiltration that also provides water for landscaping areas.

(6)

In multifamily residential developments, open space should be easily accessible from all buildings with the maximum number of units sited adjacent to the open space areas. In addition to the common open space areas, projects are encouraged to provide each unit with usable private open space. These private spaces should be directly accessible from the unit and large enough to permit outdoor living activities.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Open space areas shall be provided and maintained as a percentage of the lot equal to or greater than the following:

(a)

Multiple household: 40 percent.

(b)

Office/retail (up to three acres): 25 percent.

(c)

Office/retail (greater than three acres): 20 percent.

(d)

Industrial: 15 percent.

(2)

Open space areas are outdoor areas which provide separation and relief from buildings, or create outdoor recreational opportunities. These areas include:

(a)

Walkways, pedestrian paths, open plazas and malls, terraces, natural drainage ways and drainage ponds, playgrounds, rooftops improved for landscape or recreational purposes, and similar structures designed specifically for active and passive recreational use and which are not designed to be used by motor vehicles except for emergency and service purposes; and

(b)

Areas used as planted or landscaped areas, flowerbeds and planters.

(3)

Open space areas do not include:

(a)

Portions of a property which are capable of being developed and which are specifically used for storage or reserved for future expansion, or outdoor areas which are developed for use as a storage area; and

(b)

Areas designed to accommodate motor vehicle uses such as parking lots, open-air showrooms, roads, or service areas, at, above or below ground level. Landscaping over underground parking, however, will be included.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Parking lot design and internal circulation standards are set out in chapter 18.36.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Parking lot design and internal circulation standards are set out in chapter 18.36.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Screening standards are set out in section 18.40.251.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

All trash containers shall comply with the requirements of chapter 5.03 of the Golden Municipal Code, and shall not be located in the public right-of-way, setback areas, or buffer areas as defined by chapter 18.28 and section 18.40.222. Trash enclosures shall be integrated into the site plan to minimize enclosure visibility and accommodate truck access. Trash enclosures shall accommodate receptacles for both trash and recycling pick-up. Trash enclosures shall be constructed of durable materials and the color, texture, and architectural detailing shall be consistent with the overall site and building design.

(2)

Roof-mounted electrical, heating, ventilation or air conditioning units, and mechanical equipment shall be placed or screened such that the equipment is not visible from any point ten feet above the ground at any point within a 200-foot radius of the building upon which it is mounted. Downspouts, cell antennae, cable dishes, and roof ladders shall be located so as to minimize their view from adjacent properties.

(3)

Utility cabinets, meters, generators, and other ground-mounted mechanical equipment shall be contained within the building or otherwise fully screened.

(4)

Screening shall be provided for outdoor storage uses when these are permitted by the zoning district. Said screening shall occur in a manner acceptable to the city through the use of opaque fencing, landscaping, berming, or other techniques.

(5)

Mechanical equipment and trash enclosures not shown on the submitted drawings shall only be approved when shown on the site plans and elevation drawings as part of a complete submittal.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Walkway and bike/pedestrian path guidelines and standards are set out in sections 18.40.261 and 18.40.262, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Walkways should be designed to be free of hazards and to minimize conflicts with external factors such as noise, vehicular traffic and protruding architectural elements.

(2)

Walkways should ensure the mobility of all users by accommodating the needs of people regardless of age or ability.

(3)

Walkways and bike/pedestrian paths should provide a continuous connection to adjacent pedestrian networks and be designed so users can easily find a direct access to a route.

(4)

Development should encourage and provide access for users to utilize alternate forms of transit such as pedestrian walkways, bicycle, bus, or light rail. If the project is in close proximity to a transit route such as the City of Golden bicycle system, Regional Transportation District (RTD) bus route, or a light rail line, the project should facilitate easy access to the route (moved from 18.40.240).

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

The minimum width of an on-site walkway shall be five feet unless head-in parking is permitted adjacent to the walkway, in which case the walkway shall have a minimum width of seven feet.

(2)

On-site walkways designed to accommodate bicycles shall be referred to as bike/pedestrian paths and shall have a minimum width of eight feet. If head-in parking is permitted adjacent to bike/pedestrian paths, then two feet additional width shall be required for vehicle overhang on each side where head-in parking is allowed.

(3)

Grades for walkways and pedestrian paths shall not exceed eight percent or the grade of the adjacent public street, except short stretches not to exceed 200 feet in length may be permitted by the city engineer if the city engineer determines that the criteria in the Golden Street, Sidewalk, and Drainage Specifications for sidewalks within the right-of-way are met.

(4)

Connections from walkways, transit stops, trails, parks, and bike paths in the public right-of-way to the building and through any parking lots shall be provided.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

The guidelines set out in section 18.40.271 and the standards set out in section 18.40.272 apply to those areas within site development plans that are located adjacent to or within 500 feet of the right-of-way for I-70, C-470, U.S. 6, State Highway 58, and State Highway 93, provided that the aggregate area of the subject property is larger than 25,000 square feet. The requirements of section 18.40.272 may be waived or reduced by the city council based upon the general criteria contained in section 18.08.010 or upon presentation of evidence that compliance with the standards is technically or economically infeasible.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

To the extent possible, residential development should be sited away from noise generating facilities, such as transportation projects or industrial land uses.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Single household residential standards. The maximum outdoor DNL for single-family residential subdivisions shall not exceed 55 dB(A). This standard is to be applied at the primary outdoor use area, typically a ground level backyard. If there is no backyard or common outdoor use area serving the development, then the city may consider a large outdoor deck, situated on the main living level, as the primary outdoor use space.

(2)

Multifamily residential standards. The maximum outdoor DNL for multifamily residential subdivisions shall not exceed 55db(A). This standard is to be applied to the primary outdoor use area, typically the backyard or common outdoor use area. The standard does not apply to the small balconies or decks associated with multiunit developments provided there is a common outdoor use area within the development.

(4)

City parks, school playgrounds. The maximum outdoor DNL for city parks and school playgrounds shall not exceed 65 db(A).

(5)

Commercial shopping areas. The outdoor DNL for commercial shopping areas shall not exceed 65 db(A).

(6)

Industrial areas. The maximum outdoor DNL for industrial areas shall not exceed 70 db(A).

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Standards for development of hillsides are set out in section 18.40.292.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Where properties subject to this chapter include areas covering more than 25 percent of the site with original slopes in excess of 15 percent slope, the following specific standards shall apply in addition to other requirements:

(1)

Driveway grades shall conform to criteria for private driveways in the Golden Street, Sidewalk, and Drainage Specifications.

(2)

Site development plans shall include measures to minimize erosion both during construction and after occupancy in conformance with any required drainage or stormwater quality permit, as approved by the city.

(3)

Overlot grading proposals for subdivisions or developments shall minimize disruption of topographic forms. Cut or fill depth within 100 feet of a public street right-of-way or adjacent property shall not exceed ten feet unless specifically approved by the director based upon the criteria in subsection 18.40.06(1).

(4)

Fill slopes between the subject site and existing buildings on an adjacent site shall not exceed 3:1 grade if the height of the slope where the fill is occurring exceeds four feet. Slopes in excess of a 2.5:1 grade shall be stabilized with an approved structural treatment. Acceptable ground cover for such a slope must be specified on the site plan or grading plan.

(5)

The top of a cut slope shall be made not nearer to a property lot line than ten feet; unless a professional engineer licensed in the State of Colorado certifies that the cut will not substantially impact the lateral support of the adjacent property.

(6)

The toe of a fill slope greater than four feet in height shall be made not nearer to property lot line than ten feet or three feet of setback for each one foot of fill, whichever is greater.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Applicants shall meet all of the standards of section 18.40.341, and a preponderance of the guidelines of section 18.40.342, in addition to the menu requirements in section 18.40.350. Applications that are subject to the residential sustainability standards set out in chapter 18.24 are not subject to these guidelines and standards.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

An applicant must install a photovoltaic energy generation system on-site that offsets ten percent of the structure's modeled electrical consumption on an annual basis. If site-specific conditions of an applicant's property, such as orientation or location of a piece of property, building site location, shading resulting from topography, or other unavoidable site-specific constraints make it impractical for an applicant to meet the requirements of this paragraph (1), then an applicant shall be required to pay to the city cash in lieu of the solar requirement in an amount equal to the fair market value of a similar sized system sufficient to enable the production of an equivalent amount of power compared to what the applicant would otherwise be required to produce on-site, and shall be based upon a 12-month average of actual or projected electricity consumption calculated by an Energy Star Portfolio Manager account or similar building energy modeling tool. Such payment shall be used for the construction, purchase, operation and maintenance by the city of a solar garden, solar farm or similar community renewable energy facility and for the costs of administering programs related to such renewable energy facility, and/or the cost for the city to acquire, by purchase, lease or otherwise, ownership or participating interests in a third-party operated community renewable energy facility.

(2)

An applicant must provide and install a programmable thermostat for each individual commercial building, tenant-occupied space in a commercial building, or multifamily dwelling unit.

(3)

An applicant must provide and install separate electricity meters for each individual multifamily dwelling unit or tenant-occupied space in a commercial building. For natural gas, an applicant must provide and install separate meters for commercial tenant spaces 10,000 square feet or more.

(4)

An applicant must demonstrate through energy modeling software that the multifamily or commercial project exceeds the minimum applicable International Energy Conservation Code standards adopted by the city by at least four percent.

(5)

An applicant must integrate in any trash enclosure an equal-sized space and access for recycling receptacles adjacent to any trash receptacles.

(6)

An applicant must provide and install one level 2 electric car (EV) charging station per 15 required parking spaces for the project and EV ready conduit for 15 percent of the total required parking spaces on-site. This requirement shall only apply once the total minimum required parking spaces for the project reaches 15, using rounding for any subsequent charging station requirements.

(7)

All fenestrations must achieve u-values of .25 or below.

(8)

Use EPA Water Sense certified water conservation measures for fixtures including flush urinals, dual flush toilets, faucets and showerheads, drip irrigation with rain sensors and industrial conservation measures.

(9)

An applicant must provide an amount of bicycle parking on site equivalent to ten percent of the minimum vehicle parking requirement.

(10)

An applicant must install an all-season bus shelter if the property abuts ROW that is within an existing transit route and a stop is adjacent to the property boundary.

(11)

An applicant must install heat reflective roof materials. Minimum 29 SRI (solar reflective index) materials qualify.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Provide community garden plots, fruit trees, or other means of food production on site for a minimum of 15 percent of residential units to foster local food production. Plots must be a minimum of 20 square feet each.

(2)

Plant at least 20 percent additional trees than otherwise required to maximize shade over paved or covered areas in summer (deciduous east, west, south), provide a wind break in winter (evergreens to north) and reduce the urban heat island effect in parking areas and throughout the site.

(3)

Install building automation system for advanced monitoring, which can include networked controls of multiple building systems, such as heating and cooling, ventilation, daylighting and lighting.

(4)

Install energy or heat recovery ventilation (E/HRVs) for energy efficiency and balanced ventilation.

(5)

Daylighting or passive lighting for at least 20 percent of internal spaces. Skylights, solar tubes and lumen sensors are examples.

(6)

Install a green roof in accordance with applicable stormwater standards and building codes.

(7)

Employ stormwater runoff reduction strategies to slow runoff and promote infiltration by routing stormwater through bioswales, rain gardens and/or permeable pavement designed in accordance with the City of Golden Stormwater Standards Manual.

(8)

Provide compost bin location on the property with contract for pick-up service.

(9)

Provide a bike repair station and secure and enclosed parking (e.g. lockers, storage room) for at least 50 percent of the bike parking required.

(10)

Provide number of shower units for a minimum of two percent of all full time equivalent employees.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

In addition to complying with the sustainability guidelines and standards contained in sections 18.40.340 and 18.40.341, applicants shall choose items from the menu below, to reach a minimum of 20 points.

For projects involving the installation of certain high-resource use features, the minimum number of points increases according to the following schedule:

To calculate the total number of required points, sum 25 plus the additional points required for items listed in the schedule above. As an example, the total number of points required for a project that includes a gas fire pit and a snow melt system would be 35 (i.e., 25 + 5 + 5)

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Building placement, grading, and site layout guidelines and standards are set out in sections 18.40.411 and 18.40.412, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Site layout, grading, and landscaping.

(a)

Where properties abut natural features, such as drainage ways, wetlands, and hillside slopes, the landscape design should incorporate the natural features into the overall design for the property. Solid fences, walls, and other devices that separate the natural feature from the site should not be used.

(b)

Where a fill slope is to be located near the site boundary and the adjacent off-site property is either developed or public park or open space land, precautions should be incorporated in the plan to protect adjoining property from damage as a result of such grading. These precautions may include, but are not limited to:

1.

Additional setbacks.

2.

Provisions for retaining or slough walls.

3.

Mechanical or chemical treatment of the fill slope surface to minimize erosion.

4.

Provisions for the control of surface waters.

(c)

Pedestrian and/or vehicular access ways should be extended to the property line in order to interconnect with other adjacent commercial parking lots.

(2)

Building siting.

(a)

The siting of a building should fit the existing topography, relate to climatic conditions, and consider on- and-off-site structures, streets and pedestrian ways.

(b)

Structures should be placed lower than the top of slope so that the building will blend into the landscape, rather than being a focal point.

(c)

Building orientation and placement should not be disruptive to existing topographic forms, and should minimize overall cut and fill depths.

(d)

Placement of common buildings such as the appearance of one solid wall of clubhouses, garages, and/laundry facilities should be primarily toward the interior of the complex.

(e)

The pattern of spaces between buildings of new construction should be consistent with existing construction.

(f)

Attention should be given to preserving unique and/or special topographical features such as streams, outcroppings, wetlands, and unusual or scenic geological features.

(3)

Orientation.

(a)

Building orientation should face the street frontage, and preserve view corridors. Buildings should be carefully sited for climate control and to minimize casting shadows onto adjacent properties.

(b)

When integrating with existing neighborhoods, buildings and other site plan elements should be oriented on the lot in a manner which is consistent with the established neighborhoods. Where there is a predominant pattern of siting characteristics established on surrounding lots, this pattern should be continued on the subject lot.

(c)

Buildings should be staggered in orientation throughout a complex to encourage interest and avoid repetition.

(4)

Massing, scale and proportion. Building design for multifamily projects should resemble the scale of single- family residential architecture to the extent possible. It is important to create distinct, individual units within a larger building and avoid repetition. Larger buildings should be broken down into smaller modules, with horizontal recessed and projected components, and vertical changes in the roofline.

(a)

The design of the building or buildings should consider the building proportions, building mass and height and the potential for grouping buildings together so as to be compatible with adjacent existing and proposed uses.

(b)

If the proposed building or buildings is to be larger than adjacent structures, architectural elements should be incorporated into the design of the larger building such that the scale of the larger building's facade is compatible with the adjacent smaller buildings. Scale of the elements of the existing and proposed buildings, and existing rhythm of buildings along the street should be considered. Landscaping should also be designed to integrate the structures into the surroundings.

(c)

A transition in scale, and appropriate quantities of open space and landscaping should be utilized to create an attractive, compatible edge in areas where larger scale buildings are sited next to smaller ones, such as office complexes next to single-family residences.

(d)

Building proportions should be visually pleasing to the eye. Where suitable, use of the Golden Section or an appropriate visual scale should be used. The Golden Section (a ratio of 0.618 to 1.000) is encouraged as a standard proportion for width in relation to height as used in facades of buildings, in window sizing, and in first-story to second-story proportion. The Golden Rectangle, a rectangle whose sides are proportional according to the Golden Section, can be seen at the Colorado School of Mines and in the capital building downtown Denver. See photo in subsection 18.40.511(4).

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Massing, scale and proportion.

(a)

The massing of larger buildings shall be broken into smaller components that more readily relate to the human scale. Building massing should be varied by employing a variety of techniques, such as recessed porches, bay windows, dormers and varying planes or setbacks. As appropriate to the style of the complex, the roof forms should be varied. Roof forms should include Use varying facades and create smaller components hipped roofs, gabled roofs, varying roof pitches, side-to-side gables, front-to-hack gables, or various combinations.

(b)

Facade components should correspond to a human scale which can be accomplished by visually breaking up facades into smaller components with elements such as windows, covered entries, balconies, and by stepping back upper stories.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines and standards for architectural features are set out in sections 18.40.421 and 18.40.422, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

When building groups or multiple structures are planned for a single project, they should be designed in a unified architectural and spatial manner with reference to building placement, exterior finish, materials and design details.

(2)

Brick, sandstone, wood, stucco, colored and textured concrete, and textured concrete masonry units for facing materials are encouraged. The use of native and natural materials common to the Colorado landscape is encouraged to create a warm, residential environment. Foundations should be faced with native stone or painted, rather than left as untreated concrete. Multiple building materials should generally be used to add dimension to a building.

(3)

The design of facades visible from the street should include building materials that are similar or identical with the surroundings and provide an appearance of quality and permanence. Surface or facade details to enrich the architectural character and enhance the streetscape should be used. These may include awnings, special entry details, lights, and bay or specially designed windows, cornices or molding details.

(4)

Lighting, paving, and street furnishings such as benches and planters should be integrated into the overall building concept and design.

(5)

Flat-roofed carports and long, unbroken rows of garages are discouraged. Multiple garages should be divided into smaller buildings rather than one row of several.

(6)

Mechanical equipment mounted on the building including, but not limited to, vents, flues, flashings, HVAC units, and dish antennae should be painted to match the color of the building.

(7)

Retaining wall materials should usually consist of natural rock, boulders, stone, brick or other decorative materials. In addition, retaining walls should not usually exceed eight feet in height (as consistent with chapter 15.18).

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

The design of building facades shall incorporate elements that help to break up long walls or roofs of buildings and facilitate a relationship with residents and visitors. Building elements shall incorporate design features and architectural elements that relate to the human scale. Buildings that utilize smaller-scale elements and useable outdoor spaces will appear less massive, fit more appropriately on the site, and appear more inviting to residents and visitors.

(2)

One color shall not dominate a larger building or entire complex, but rather the use of multiple complimentary colors should be used to differentiate between buildings and components within buildings.

(3)

Blank building walls that are visible to the public shall be avoided. Blank walls shall be designed to be less oppressive through the use of interesting details, design patterns and features that diminish the scale of the structure. For an expansive wall, consideration shall be given to implementing a pattern on the wall with a different color or type of the same material, or creating an area of the wall that is a different texture, color and material. There shall be at least one vertical wall plane change for every 25 feet of wall length. The vertical change shall be recessed or promoted at least two feet in depth and shall continue for a minimum of four feet in width.

(4)

Retaining walls shall consist of materials consistent with the natural surroundings and/or proposed buildings. Where retaining walls exceed eight feet in height, they shall be designed in a manner that steps the retaining walls and provides landscaping on each step.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines and standards for parking lot design and internal circulation are set out in sections 18.40.441 and 18.40.442, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Whenever possible, parking lots should be located behind residential structures, rather than along the primary frontage, to minimize visual impact to the street. Parking lots should be recessed behind the front wall of the building.

(2)

Where individual garages are incorporated into projects, common driveways, private streets, or alley-loaded access is encouraged. The design of these structures should relate to the primary building.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Parking lot design and internal circulation standards are set out in chapter 18.36.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

The City of Golden's commercial design standards and guidelines are set forth to enhance the overall character of the city's commercial development. It is important to have a balance between the integration of commercial development into the surrounding residential areas and promoting a healthy commercial environment that is attractive and convenient for residents and visitors.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines for nonresidential building placement and site layout are set out in sections 18.40.511.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Site layout.

(a)

Where properties abut natural features, such as drainage ways, wetlands, and hillside slopes, the landscape design should incorporate the natural features into the overall design for the property. Solid fences, walls, and other devices that separate the natural feature from the site should not be used.

(b)

Where a fill slope is to be located near the site boundary and the adjacent off-site property is either developed or a public park or open space land, precautions should be incorporated into the plan to protect adjoining property from damage as a result of such grading. These precautions may include, but are not limited to:

1.

Additional setbacks.

2.

Provisions for retaining or slough walls.

3.

Mechanical or chemical treatment of the fill slope surface to minimize erosion.

4.

Provisions for the control of surface waters.

(2)

Building siting.

(a)

The siting of a building should fit the existing topography, relate to climatic conditions, and consider on-and-off-site structures, streets and pedestrian ways.

(b)

Structures should be placed lower than the top of slope so that the building will blend into the landscape, rather than being a focal point.

(c)

Building orientation and placement should not be disruptive to existing topographic forms, and should minimize overall cut and fill depths.

(d)

The pattern of spaces between buildings of new construction should be consistent with existing construction.

(e)

Attention should be given to preserving unique and/or special topographical features such as streams, outcroppings, wetlands, and unusual or scenic geological features.

(3)

Orientation.

(a)

In general, buildings should be located in a manner that relates to the street and provides a strong street frontage rather than creating street frontages that are dominated by parking.

(b)

Building orientation should face the street frontage, and preserve view corridors. View corridor means the line of sight, identified as to height, width, and distance, of an observer looking toward an object of significance to the community (e.g., ridgeline, river, historic building); the route that directs the viewer's attention. Buildings should be carefully sited for climate control and to minimize casting shadows onto adjacent properties.

(c)

When integrating with existing neighborhoods, buildings and other site plan elements should be oriented on the lot in a manner which is consistent with the established neighborhoods. Where there is a predominant pattern of siting characteristics established on surrounding lots, this pattern should be continued on the subject lot.

(d)

Where the main entrance of a building does not face a street, other street side entrances, windows, and doors shall be highlighted, to provide interest and appear accessible to pedestrians.

(e)

Loading and service entrances shall not intrude upon the public view, nor interfere with pedestrian and vehicular flows within the project.

(4)

Massing, scale and proportion. The intent is to ensure that buildings, particularly large structures, are designed with elements that relate to a human scale and are appropriately proportioned. Large building volume should be broken into a number of smaller components to decrease its apparent mass and volume, thus reducing its visual impact. Reducing the visual impact of mass can be accomplished by creating building insets or projections, stepping back upper floors, and varying the height of the roofline. Changes in vertical mass should be used in an architecturally appropriate way to add interest and reduce the appearance of building height and bulk.

(a)

The design of the building or buildings should consider the building proportions, building mass and height and the potential for grouping buildings together so as to be compatible with adjacent existing and proposed uses.

(b)

If the proposed building or buildings is to be larger than adjacent structures, architectural elements should be incorporated into the design of the larger building such that the scale of the larger building's facade is compatible with the adjacent smaller buildings. Scale of the elements of the existing and proposed buildings, and existing rhythm of buildings along the street should be considered. Landscaping should also be designed to integrate the structures into the surroundings.

(c)

A transition in scale, and appropriate quantities of open space and landscaping should be utilized to create an attractive, compatible edge in areas where larger scale buildings are sited next to smaller ones, such as office complexes next to single-family residences.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Guidelines and standards for nonresidential architectural features are set out in sections 18.40.521 and 18.40.522, respectively.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Commercial development within the city should reflect Golden's character, including a small town feel, historic architecture, and compatibility with the surrounding mountain landforms.

(2)

When building groups or multiple structures are planned for a single project, they should be designed in a unified architectural and spatial manner with reference to building placement, exterior finish, materials and design details.

(3)

Brick, sandstone, wood, stucco, colored and textured concrete, and textured concrete masonry units for facing materials are encouraged.

(4)

The design of facades visible from the street should include building materials that are similar or identical with the surroundings and provide an appearance of quality and permanence.

(5)

Lighting, paving, and street furnishings such as benches and planters should be integrated into the overall building concept and design.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Main building entries shall be accented with strong architectural definition.

(2)

Buildings shall have a clearly defined base and roof edge so that the facade has a distinct base, middle, and top that relates to a human scale.

(3)

Surface or facade details to enrich the architectural character and enhance the streetscape shall be used. These may include awnings, special entry details, lights, and bay or specially designed windows, cornices or molding details.

(4)

Blank building walls that are visible to the public should be avoided. Blank walls should be designed to be less oppressive through the use of interesting details, design patterns and features that diminish the scale of the structure. For an expansive wall, consideration shall be given to implementing a pattern on the wall with a different color or type of the same material, or creating an area of the wall that is a different texture, color and material. Facades less than or equal to 100 feet in length, measured horizontally, shall be broken at least every 30 feet through the use of projected or recessed components. Facades greater than 100 feet in length, shall incorporate wall plane projections or recesses having a depth of at least three percent of the length of the facade and extending at least 20 percent of the length of the facade. No uninterrupted length of any facade shall exceed 100 horizontal feet.

(5)

The use of prefabricated metal for an entire structure, panelized flat plywood and highly reflective materials for facing materials is prohibited.

(6)

Mechanical equipment mounted on the building including, but not limited to, vents, flues, and flashings should be painted to match the color of the building.

(7)

Retaining walls should consist of materials consistent with proposed buildings.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Development should minimize the impact of large areas of surface parking on the aesthetic character for commercial development.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Parking shall be located to the sides and rear of the building. For larger commercial centers, limited parking may be provided between the building and the street. Surface parking areas facing a public street shall be buffered by berming or landscaping.

(2)

All outdoor parking areas shall be divided into smaller areas to decrease visual impacts associated with large expanses of pavement and vehicles, and to facilitate safe and efficient pedestrian movement between parking and commercial establishments.

(3)

Parking garages shall be designed to be compatible with the historical character and architecture of the surrounding area. Vehicles and ramps within the garage shall be masked or hidden as much as possible.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

The Clear Creek corridor includes properties adjacent to Clear Creek as well as the city-owned campus along 10th Street. It includes both sides of Clear Creek, south of 10th Street from Maple Street to Vasquez Street, and north of the 11th Street alignment from Maple Street to East Street.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Properties along Clear Creek should provide open visual corridors to the creek to promote the appearance of accessibility.

(2)

Development should take advantage of the natural setting of the creek and trail by creating first floor uses that are open to the public and enhance the pedestrian and recreational environment. First floor uses such as restaurants, plazas and retail that compliment and activate the corridor are encouraged for enhanced safety and community vitality.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

At least one primary entrance shall face the creek. The entrance shall be architecturally enhanced to show interest towards the creek.

(2)

Notwithstanding the requirements of section 18.40.532, the creek shall be considered a primary front and parking shall be toward the interior and away from the creek and street sides.

(3)

Buildings façades, landscaping and entrances shall be attractive and welcoming to users of the Clear Creek trail. Amenities such as wide stairways, outdoor use areas, and opportunities for seating, both formal and informal, are examples of treatments that are strongly encouraged.

(4)

Parking areas adjacent to the creek shall be screened by a non-transparent landscape element, such as non-deciduous trees or shrubs. A minimum ten-foot-wide landscape buffer strip shall be provided as screening for automobile use areas.

(5)

Development shall provide a minimum ten-foot buffer between private uses and the Clear Creek trail. For private uses that facilitate interaction between creek trail users and the private use (i.e., restaurant, retail, outdoor use areas), the required buffer may be reduced to five feet for no more than 20 percent of the creek frontage.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

In general, signs should enhance the visual interest and remain subordinate to the overall character of the downtown area. A diversity of sign styles that complement the historic architecture is desired. Chapter 18.32 of the Golden Municipal Code establishes regulations governing signs. Sections 18.40.752 and 18.40.754 provide supplemental guidelines and standards to be applied in addition to the requirements of chapter 18.32.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

(1)

Signs should be architecturally compatible with the building to which it is attached at to surrounding structures.

(2)

Wall signs should be located on the upper portion of the first floor storefront and should be centered within an area uninterrupted by doors, windows, or architectural details.

(3)

Materials of sign mounting brackets and support structures should match other fixture materials used on the façade of the building.

(4)

To convey a subtle appearance, the use of back-lit or reverse channel letters with halo illumination rather than internally-lit signs are encouraged.

(1)

Signs shall be permitted to be internally lit only if wall-mounted. All wall-mounted lighting fixtures shall be placed above the sign and shall shine downward.

(2)

Directory signs shall only be wall-mounted.

(3)

Letters shall not exceed 12 inches in height.

(4)

All light fixtures, conduit and shielding shall be painted a flat, dark color, or shall be painted to match either the building or the supporting structure that serves as the background of the sign.

(5)

A sign shall be removed within 30 days after the activity, product, business, service or other use which is being advertised has ceased or vacated the premises.

(6)

Signs for businesses occupying a single-family residential structure shall be limited to one 32 square foot sign.

(7)

Banners or signs shall not be placed on balcony railings or on areas that would detract or interfere with business operations.

(1)

The standards of this division A-1 apply as provided in section 18.40.015(3)(d). The downtown area consists of all properties generally between 15th Street on the south and Highway 58 on the north and from Cheyenne Street to East Street, and as specifically depicted by the map below.

(2)

No building permit shall be issued for the construction of any building, structure, parking area, or for any significant alteration to existing buildings or structures in the downtown area without first obtaining the approval of a site development plan from the director of planning and development. For the purposes of this section, "significant alteration" refers to an addition in gross floor area greater than 1,000 square feet or any physical alteration to a building façade facing a street or alley.

(3)

All proposals shall be reviewed according to the general standards and guidelines and additional provisions of chapter 18.40. In addition, proposals shall be reviewed according to the applicable specific standards and guidelines of this division A-1. Proposals involving historically designated properties are also required to be reviewed by the historic preservation board in conformance with chapter 18.58.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Golden's downtown area has a unique character that is separate and distinct from other areas of Golden. The design standards and guidelines attempt to preserve the main street character of downtown through the maintenance and restoration of its architectural integrity.

(1)

Goals.

a.

Retain distinct architectural features that give the downtown its distinguishing character.

b.

New construction and additions to existing buildings should recognize the predominant size and bulk of existing buildings through design considerations.

c.

Use new elements such as landscaping materials, fencing, streetscape elements that are compatible with the character of the neighborhood in size, scale, material and color.

d.

Retain features such as parks, street lights, benches, walkways, alleys, and building setbacks that have traditionally linked buildings to their environment.

A-1.3.1

Character. The combination of a building's distinguishing features make up the important overall character element.

Development should respect downtown Golden's character which is typified in architectural features of several existing historic structures in the downtown area. The representative character desired by the City of Golden is included in the following examples:

(1)

1201 Washington Avenue. The original Ruby National Bank building illustrates late nineteenth century architecture in Golden.

•

Regular rhythm of window spacing on the second floor

•

Extensive cornice details

•

Appropriate use of color

•

Etched or carved masonry with faux column highlights at regular intervals and on corner

(2)

1200 Washington Avenue. The Everett Block building (1873) retains its unique Golden character through an updated, contemporary use of color and awnings while maintaining the custom styles of arched second story windows and first floor storefront windows.

•

Strong use of color

•

Arched windows and headers

•

Texturized dentifrice detail under cornice element

•

Maintains setback consistency along block

(3)

1122 Washington Avenue. The Loveland Building (1863) is Golden's first brick storefront with arched doors and windows and is an example of an appropriate corner development. With the entrance opening to the corner, the entrance is visible and is the highlighted feature. The use of window cladding creates visual interest while duplicating the rectangular components in the building façade.

•

Corner entry at intersection

•

Large storefront windows

•

Preservation of brick detail and color

•

Appropriate cornice element

(4)

1120 Washington Avenue. The Coors Building (1906) maintains a set back third story with projecting, arched dormer elements. The unique tile mansard roof and textured brick detailing provide high quality details.

•

Sign band is appropriately sized

•

Third floor set back from main façade

•

Arched windows

•

Segmented windows on second story

•

Storefront windows indicate retail use

•

Kick plate under storefront windows

•

Use of color to define sign and kick plate elements

(5)

1100 Washington Avenue. The Woods Mortuary Building was built in two phases: the north half (1872) features arched window treatments, a prominent cornice feature, and appropriate window and door intervals; the south half (Taft Building, built pre-1886) is similar in style. This building is a good example of creating continuity even though there are varying architectural elements between the two.

•

Consistent color scheme

•

Window openings at regular intervals

•

Recessed entrances

•

Detailed dentifrice and brick work

•

Unique window headers

•

Appropriately sized awning

(6)

1114 Washington Avenue. The Dollison Building (1880) was originally two stories but had a third story recessed with mansard roof and two dormers) added but later removed again around 1920.

•

Recessed entry components

•

Dissimilar second floor and first floor entrances

•

Arched second floor windows

•

Use of appropriate color highlights cornice element and kick plates

A-1.3.2

Guidelines.

(1)

Development proposals should consider Golden's representative character, including architectural styles, features and architectural elements.

(2)

A building or group of buildings should be designed to be compatible with and in general conformance to the proportions of architectural forms, plans, and details within the existing urban context.

(3)

Preservation of original features.

(a)

Structures originally constructed as residences that are being used for commercial purposes should retain the residential appearance of the structure.

(b)

Elements such as porches and smaller-scale windows should be retained.

(4)

New additions on or near Washington Avenue which are above the second floor should be set back to maintain the typical block character.

(5)

Additions should be compatible in scale, materials and character with the main building.

(6)

Additions to the structure should be built on the side or back of the original structure, and should maintain the character of the original portions of the building.

A-1.3.3

Standards.

(1)

Missing original or historic features shall be replaced or continued with accurate replications.

(2)

The original open character of a porch shall be preserved. Porch enclosures on the front of a historic structure are inappropriate.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Historic materials have an identifiable size and texture that is an important visual characteristic of the downtown areas. The color scheme for a new or renovated building should visually link it with others in the area.

A-1.4.1

Guidelines.

(1)

New buildings and additions should use elements that are compatible with the historic elements, but which are characteristic of contemporary materials.

(2)

Materials should be smooth brick with narrow joints or wood siding with narrow lap. Stone should be reserved for detailing at cornices and windows and for use at the building base.

(3)

If stucco or EFS system is used, it should be used only above the second floor.

(4)

Strongly contrasting materials should be limited to use for accents. Colors not historically used in the area are appropriate for small areas such as window or door trim, kick plates, or clerestory details.

(5)

Smooth, featureless metal, plastic, or concrete panels should be avoided.

(6)

Highly reflective materials should be avoided. Some use of glass is appropriate for its transparency, as long as it is not tinted or mirrored.

(7)

Steel and iron materials that are finely detailed and finished are appropriate.

(8)

Owners are encouraged to repair, restore or replace existing wood siding with similar wood materials. Alternative materials such as vinyl are not prohibited, but should accompany appropriate wood trim details.

(9)

The following is a list of material examples that are generally inappropriate in the historic context of downtown:

•

Imitation masonry

•

Mirrored surfaces

•

Vinyl or plastic imitation wood siding, with the exception of postconsumer recycled materials

•

Oversized bricks

•

Stucco treated as a particular theme, such as Southwestern or Mediterranean

•

Applying inappropriate materials such as veneers, are discouraged

A-1.4.2

Standards.

(1)

To preserve the appearance of original materials, covering original materials with new materials shall be avoided. If such covering is necessary and waived by planning commission, it shall be installed in such a way as to avoid damaging original materials if the covering is to be removed in the future.

(2)

Unless waived by planning commission, original masonry and mortar shall be retained, without the application of any surface treatment.

(3)

Unless waived by the planning commission, existing unpainted masonry or brick surfaces shall remain unpainted. Painted brick shall reflect traditional historic colors of Golden.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.5.1

Roofs and porches—Guidelines.

(1)

Original roof shapes should be preserved or recreated. Existing dormers and chimneys should be retained. Existing roof pitches should be retained.

(2)

Preserve and replace when necessary, all architectural features that contribute to the roof character such as dormer windows, cupolas, cornices, brackets, and chimneys.

(3)

Retain or replace the original roofing material whenever possible. More contemporary types of roof treatment are acceptable if similar to historic materials (i.e., dimensional shingles, recycled glass tiles, etc.).

(4)

Roof forms, color, material, and texture should be compatible with the treatment of the exterior walls of the building.

(5)

Roof design should minimize the impact of roof protrusions by grouping together or screening vents, ducts, and other mechanical equipment and by recessing rooftop equipment back from the exterior walls.

A-1.5.2

Roofs and porches—Standards.

(1)

Principal roofs for houses converted to nonresidential uses shall be of a type used in one of Golden's historic architecture periods, including symmetrical gable, hip, or gambrel roof types.

(2)

Porches shall maintain an open character and visibility to an entrance.

(3)

Maintain the perceived line and orientation of the roof from the street. Avoid altering the angle of the roof.

(4)

New dormers shall be compatible in size and placement with respect to other dormers on the building or in the neighborhood.

(5)

Retain roof detailing such as brackets, cornices, parapets, and gable end shingles.

(6)

Downspouts and gutters shall be installed in an appropriate location and have a similar color to match the existing structure.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.6.1

Exterior spaces—Guidelines.

(1)

Provide seating that is usable year-round. Seating should be buffered from extreme winds and should be located so that there is shade in the summer months and sun in the winter months.

(2)

Low fences, walls, or hedges used to separate open space areas from public right-of-way should provide at least 50 percent open face or be less than 40 inches in height to allow uninterrupted visual perspective.

(3)

Fences and stone walls should be limited to side street locations where they complement other architectural features.

A-1.6.2

Exterior spaces—Standards. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in chapter 18.40, there shall be no specific percentage of open space required for office, commercial, mixed use nonresidential and residential, and industrial uses in the downtown zone. Open space shall be provided in an amount sufficient to satisfy the requirements of this section and sections 18.40.221 and 18.40.222 pertaining to landscaping.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.7.1

Openings—Guidelines.

(1)

The patterns created by the location and detail of entrances to commercial buildings should be maintained. Enlargement of window and door openings that alter the historic pattern of openings is discouraged.

(2)

Typically, houses and storefronts feature a front window or grouping of windows. The proportions, type, relationship, decorative glass, and surrounding detail should be preserved. Arched or defined headers over windows are encouraged.

(3)

Preserve the functional, proportional, and decorative features including the door and its frame, sill, header, jamb, moldings, and any flanking windows.

(4)

On Washington Avenue, new construction should maintain the pattern of recessed entrances with large storefront display windows.

(5)

To maintain the distinction between upper and lower floors of commercial properties, the first-floor storefront should be primarily transparent, while upper floors are primarily solid.

(6)

Entrances on corner buildings should face directly to the corner, not just to one of the two street sides.

A-1.7.2

Openings—Standards.

(1)

Owners shall replicate the traditional proportion of window repetitions within a façade.

(2)

New building facades and renovations to non-historic facades shall preserve the proportions that are compatible with the proportions established by surrounding buildings and historic buildings in the area.

(3)

Kick plates shall be maintained and incorporated into the area below display windows.

(4)

Transom and sign band features shall be preserved and incorporated into the overall façade.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.8.1

Parking and circulation—Guidelines.

(1)

Alleys should be efficient for service vehicles as well as attractive for pedestrians.

(2)

Businesses should emphasize their alley entrances with awnings and other architectural features.

(3)

Parking structures should be designed to promote active uses at the sidewalk level. This can be accomplished by designing below grade parking or by having retail uses along the street frontage with parking above and behind the retail space.

(4)

Parking structures should be compatible with traditional buildings in the surrounding area. Structures should maintain the traditional widths of downtown buildings, maintain the alignments and rhythms of architectural elements, and use similar historic building materials.

A-1.8.2

Parking and circulation—Standards.

(1)

Parking shall be located at the interior of the block whenever possible as opposed to the corner or street side of the block.

(2)

Access to parking shall be off of alleys and side streets instead of Washington Avenue. Additional Washington Avenue curb cuts are prohibited unless approved by the planning commission.

(3)

Provide coordinated walkway networks for each site ensuring pedestrian circulation to and from all buildings, parking, and public rights-of-way.

(4)

Provide pedestrian circulation through and from parking lots and to transit stops.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Streetscape design should contain elements that provide visual continuity along the public right-of-way.

Activities and services in the streetscape area should allow safe pedestrian circulation.

A-1.9.1

Streetscape—Guidelines.

(1)

Public art should be compatible with the historic context of the downtown area and not impede the view of historic buildings.

A-1.9.2

Streetscape—Standards.

(1)

A license agreement or city permit shall be required for any private activities located within the public right-of-way.

(2)

Awnings.

(a)

Awnings shall not be back lit or internally illuminated.

(b)

There shall be a minimum clearance of at least eight feet between the bottom of the awning and the ground at grade.

(c)

Any portion of an awning containing the name of the business, or which is otherwise a sign, shall be treated as a sign and subject to the provisions of chapter 18.32. Sign lettering and/or logo shall comprise no more than 30 percent of the total exterior surface of an awning or canopy.

(3)

Outdoor elements.

(a)

Restaurant seating in the pedestrian portion of the public right-of-way may be permitted pursuant to the provisions of chapter 4.90.

(b)

Outdoor displays in the pedestrian portion of the public right-of-way may be permitted if at least six feet of passable sidewalk is maintained. No outdoor display or sales area shall encroach onto any portion of a drive aisle, parking or landscaped area.

(4)

Street tree specifications.

(a)

Only trees on the "recommended plant list for downtown areas" shall be allowed.

(5)

Streetscape requirements for buildings with a front setback less than ten feet in width, shall consist of deciduous trees in tree grates, a dry-laid brick paver strip and landscape planting areas where space permits, to conform with the downtown streetscape standards.

streetscape layout

(6)

Where a parking lot abuts a sidewalk, a minimum of eight feet of landscaped berm or planting strip shall be used as a buffer.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.10.1

Multifamily and mixed use properties—Guidelines.

(1)

The residential portion of a mixed use building should incorporate typical residential features such as porches and balconies that offer façade articulation and transparency.

(2)

Residential balconies should be recessed and not overhang above the public space.

(3)

Multifamily structures in the downtown area should encourage pedestrian activity at the street level through the appearance of commercial architectural design of the first floor. Continuity of the typical storefront or commercial façade even if the first floor is used as residential will provide a welcoming thoroughfare.

(4)

Additions should be designed so as not to obscure, alter or destroy the character of the original building when viewed from a public right-of-way.

A-1.10.2

Multifamily and mixed use properties—Standards.

Use trellises, arcades, recessed entrances, or other transitional elements to shelter patrons from the elements at entrances.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-1.11.1

Building placement and site layout—Guidelines.

(1)

The reinforcement of the block's appearance as a single entity by aligning building heights, cornice lines, parapets, and other architectural features is encouraged.

(2)

For buildings that are set back from the walkway edge, the sidewalk lines should be maintained with planters, columns, railings, or similar features.

A-1.11.2

Building placement and site layout—Standards.

(1)

Notwithstanding the requirements of section 18.28.200, there shall not be a front setback requirement from adjacent streets rights-of-way, for buildings designed and used for commercial and office uses or mixed use nonresidential and residential between Arapahoe and Jackson Streets from 14th Street to Highway 58. In addition, planning commission will have the authority to grant a similar reduction in front setback, as part of a planning commission approved site plan for areas one block in any direction of the above referenced area, except not including north of State Highway 58. Such reduction in front setback shall be based upon a finding by planning commission that the reduction will not negatively impact nearby properties or land uses.

(2)

Continue the alignment of the original facades along Washington Avenue to create a strong visual edge, unifying the buildings in a block. New construction and additions to existing buildings should retain this same character.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. A), 6-6-2023)

One of the primary defining characteristics of Golden's downtown area is the lower scale of the commercial buildings and those structures and uses that form the transition to adjacent neighborhoods. In order to maintain the harmonious relationships and continuity between existing and new buildings, this section includes standards and guidelines for the height and mass of new buildings and additions in three specific height zones. The three height zones and the criteria for constructing taller buildings are based upon the topography and scale of existing development.

building heights should align

Visual continuity of the downtown district is created by the repetition of similarly sized building elements. New construction should appear similar in mass and scale to nearby historic structures.

A-1.12.1

Massing, scale and proportion—Guidelines.

(1)

New construction should appear similar in mass and scale to nearby structures. When taller buildings are constructed adjacent to shorter buildings care must be taken in the design of such transitions. Step backs or recesses may be appropriate ways to handle such change in scale.

(2)

Commercial buildings adjacent to historic buildings should respect the character and scale of the adjacent buildings. Sloping roof forms, smaller building masses, etc., may be used to integrate and blend the newer buildings with the existing context.

(3)

Façade heights of new buildings should be similar to the established range of the block. Floor-to-floor heights should appear similar to those of historic buildings in the area.

(4)

Existing two story cornice and parapet wall lines should be continued along the block to achieve compatibility. This continuation of the existing pedestrian scale is especially important where three- or four-story buildings are proposed.

(5)

Create view corridors using open spaces that focus on architectural landmarks, natural land forms, or special activity areas. View corridor means the line of sight, identified as to height, width, and distance, of an observer looking toward an object of significance to the community (e.g., ridgeline, river, historic building) from a public right-of-way or public property; the route that directs the viewer's attention.

(6)

Traditional building widths along Washington Avenue are 25 feet to 50 feet. Where a building must exceed this width, implement changes in design features to suggest the traditional building widths. Buildings in excess of 60 feet should appear as a collection of 25 feet to 50 feet buildings through the use of façade materials and detailing, window designs and trim details.

A-1.12.2

Massing, scale and proportion—Standards. The sections below have been developed to maintain appropriate scale and character in the downtown core, while allowing for the potential construction of four-story buildings where appropriate, based upon specific criteria.

(1)

Any new building or building addition resulting in a building greater than two stories shall set back the vertical wall plane of the portion of the building above the second story cornice line a minimum of six feet and an average of eight feet along any street frontage.

(2)

Zone A consists of the western portions of the downtown area, adjacent to the historic 8th and 9th Street and 12th Street historic neighborhoods. This zone consists primarily of one- and two-story buildings, with a couple of three-story structures. Zone A also includes the area along 14th Street west of East Street. The south side of 14th Street and the southerly 50 feet of the block north of 14th Street between East Street and Prospectors Alley lie within this zone. Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 18.28.200 and 18.28.210 of this title, no building greater than two stories above grade, with a maximum of 30 feet in height will be permitted except upon a finding by planning commission of compliance with the Tier 2 bonus criteria in subsection (5) below. No structure may exceed the maximum height limits for the applicable zone district.

(3)

Zone B consists of the historic commercial core of Golden's main street, Washington Avenue. Historically, most buildings were one to three stories in height. While there are a number of modern four-story buildings in existence, the introduction of new buildings must be handled in a manner to complement the existing scale and fabric of the commercial core. Notwithstanding the provisions of sections 18.28.200 and 18.40.210 of this title, no building greater than three stories above grade, with a maximum of 40 feet in height as measured at the front façade of the building will be permitted. Any proposal to exceed this height or number of stories will require approval of a rezoning to the PUD zone district and approval of a site-specific official development plan.

(4)

Zone C contains the balance of the downtown area. This area is characterized by larger buildings that transition into the Coors Brewery. Within this zone, the standard zone height limits shall apply; however, all structures shall comply with the height and mass criteria described in subsection (1) above.

(5)

Tier 2 bonus to allow a third and fourth floor in Zone A, or a partial floor not to exceed 40 feet in height in CMU-NC zone districts, requires compliance with all of the following:

(a)

The project will demonstrate compliance with all applicable standards, 100 percent of applicable guidelines in section 18.40.722 of this chapter 18.40, and the preponderance of other applicable guidelines as described in section 18.40.040(1). For new construction or alteration of the footprint of existing structures, the project shall provide street level public use area(s) on site and a minimum of five feet of landscape buffer along the building frontage beginning at the back of the sidewalk. Any additional structural area above 30 feet in height shall be set back a minimum of five feet from the vertical wall plane of the side facade of the portion of the building above the second story cornice line.

(b)

All new construction shall exceed minimum applicable International Energy Conservation Code standards adopted by the city by at least 20 percent, and shall be verified through energy modeling software at the time of building permit issuance.

(c)

The project shall demonstrate support for adopted community goals by including one of the following:

i.

At least 25 percent of residential units in the project shall be constructed as affordable dwelling units, as defined in chapter 18.04.

ii.

The on-site renewable energy production for the project shall be increased by at least 20 percent over the minimum applicable on-site renewable energy production standards adopted by the city, which shall be verified through energy modeling software at the time of building permit issuance.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

Adaptive use of residential buildings should preserve the overall form and character of a residential use.

A-1.13.1

Single-family residential buildings with commercial uses adaptive use of residential buildings—Guidelines.

(1)

Residential structures should be set back from the front property line, centered within the lot and occupy one-third to one-quarter or less of the lot area.

(2)

Residential structures used for commercial purposes should retain the residential character of the structure.

(3)

Additions to residential structures should be limited on to the side or rear of the original structure and should be smaller in scale than the existing building.

(4)

New commercial construction on a primarily residential block should reflect residential character.

A-1.13.2

Single-family residential buildings with commercial uses adaptive use of residential buildings—Standards. Landscaped front yard areas shall not be converted to parking.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-2.1.1

Guidelines. The goals of the comprehensive plan include a focus on pedestrian safety, amenities and aesthetics in the areas targeted for CMU zoning implementation. Architectural detailing should be designed in relation to the building height and treatment of windows, doors and other openings. First floor architectural details should vary visually, creating focal points along the building facade. The following recommendations for architectural detailing should be incorporated:

(1)

Use decorative window and door moldings, comer entries, recessed openings and other treatments to create accents or focal points (Figure 1).

(2)

Install large ground floor windows that create transparency between the sidewalk and the business (Figure 1).

(3)

Use color, texture and a variety of materials to help create visual interest (Figure 1).

(4)

Provide colorful fabric awnings, porticos, patios or other similar architectural features to enhance the pedestrian experience and visual interest (Figures 2 and 3).

(5)

Doors should be substantial and well detained. They should match the materials, design and character of the display window framing.

(6)

Use of building step backs at upper floors or building overhangs is encouraged to create more visual interest.

A-2.1.2

Standards.

(1)

Cornices: This treatment shall be provided at the second floor (or roofline for a one-story building) to differentiate the storefront from upper levels of the building.

(2)

Blank wall areas: Walls without windows or doors are only permitted on internal-block side property line walls.

(3)

Window inset: Glass shall be inset a minimum of three inches from the exterior wall surface to add relief to the wall surface.

(4)

Recessed entries: Entries shall be recessed as an element to the main street storefront and to add relief to the wall surface.

(5)

Glazing: Clear glazing is required on the first floor. Reflective glazing shall not be used. If tinted glazing is used, the tint shall be minimized; green, gray, and blue are recommended (Figure 4).

(6)

Display windows: Large pane windows shall be installed on the first floor encompassing a minimum of 60 percent of the commercial storefront surface area (Figure 4).

(7)

Residential uses: Where residential uses exist on the first floor of building frontage, windows shall constitute a minimum of 30 percent of the surface area.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-2.2.1

Guidelines.

(1)

Public space design. Public spaces are outdoor areas, whether on publicly or privately owned land, that are open and accessible to the general public.

(a)

Place publicly accessible spaces in a central location in the "Area of Change," and not in a remote corner.

(b)

Public spaces should be easily visible and accessible from the street and sidewalk, and ideally at a crossroads, where walking paths intersect (Figure 5).

(c)

Size the public space to the scale of the surrounding structures (resist making it too large) in order to provide a more intimate environment for people to congregate.

(d)

Place public spaces in plain view of sidewalks, streets and windows to provide "eyes on the street" to enhance safety.

(e)

Use a variety of materials for pavement, which can include: pavers, brick, colored and patterned concrete and stone. Any public plaza area should have a distinguishing appearance from the remainder of the commercial area (Figure 6).

(f)

Consider a water feature, whether it is interactive or passive, to help activate the site (Figure 8).

(g)

Provide versatile benches and/or chairs in small groupings that allow users to gather informally. Use a variety of options for different functions and visual interest (Figure 6).

(h)

Provide small café tables that are not fixed in place as amenities that help to create inviting spaces for people to gather. Tables and chairs should be maintained by the property owner (Figure 7).

(i)

Install informal seating, such as low planter walls and broad steps that face public space to provide casual seating.

(j)

Permanent outdoor seating is recommended in and along all publicly accessible pathways and spaces.

(k)

Portable seating, movable chairs, tables for cafes and other furniture should be of substantial materials; preferably metal or wood rather than plastic. Tables used for outdoor dining within the public right-of-way (i.e., in sidewalk areas) shall be a maximum of three feet in diameter if round and three feet along the longest side if rectilinear (Figures 6 and 7).

(l)

Fountains and small water features are recommended in open courtyards, plazas and other spaces to serve as a focal point and provide a recreational activity for children (Figure 6).

(m)

Public art, such as sculpture, wall murals and other paintings, lighting displays and special public open spaces are encouraged.

1.

Location of public art should be in highly visible places specifically designed or modified for the purpose of accommodating it; public art should not be located in semi-private areas such as the rear of buildings or in courtyards (Figure 9).

2.

Public art that relates to and represents the rich history of Golden is encouraged.

(n)

Surface parking lots should include elements such as arcades, trellises, columns, walls and railings, stairs and ramps, trees, climbing vines, arbors, and hedges to provide screening and visual interest; use of these elements should be consistent with the principal building and other site features.

Figure 5: Public Assembly Places

Figure 6: Example of Public Space with Different Pavers

Figure 7: Examples of Moveable Chairs and Tables

Figure 8: Example of Fountain for Children to Play in

Figure 9: Examples of Pubic Art along a Visible Sidewalk and Public Park Plaza

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-2.3.1

Reserved.

A-2.3.2

Standards.

(1)

Streetscape width. The distance between the back of curb and the face of the building shall be a minimum of 20 feet, and shall include:

(a)

A minimum of seven feet of amenity zone;

(b)

An eight-foot sidewalk; and

(c)

A five-foot landscape (not hardscape) buffer between the sidewalk and building face.

In the event that there is insufficient right-of-way width to accommodate the streetscape width requirement, the front maximum setback as required by section 18.28.510 of the Code shall be increased as needed to accommodate this standard.

(2)

Sidewalk amenity zone. Be at least seven feet in width (to allow appropriate space for tree planting, trash/recycling containers, benches, lampposts) in the area immediately adjacent to the roadway. Specific amenity options and requirements will be defined in the site development entitlement process. For properties located within the CMU-NC and CMU-C1 zone districts, a landscaped (not hardscaped) tree lawn shall be required.

(3)

Bus shelters. Installation is required where bus stops are located. Must include seating within a shelter to provide a rest area for transit riders and protect them from inclement weather conditions. A trash/recycling receptacle shall also be included with the shelter.

(4)

Streetscape palette. Each CMU district shall have its own common set of street amenities, including approved tree species along the streets, common pavement types and treatments, consistent lampposts and signage that are defined. This streetscape palette shall be decided by planning commission and made available by city staff.

(5)

Alleyways and private drives. Alleys and private drives intended to provide primary vehicle access for off street parking shall be paved, maintained and plowed.

(6)

New utilities. New utilities shall be installed underground.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-2.4.1

Guidelines. In addition to the applicable landscape standards that are addressed elsewhere in chapter 18.40 ("site development regulations") of the City of Golden Municipal Code, the following guidelines shall apply:

(1)

Public spaces:

(a)

Use canopy trees that will provide shade for users, located near benches or other places where people may gather (Figure 11).

(b)

Provide xeric, ornamental plantings that are low-maintenance and require little water (Figure 12).

(c)

Landscaping should not create isolated areas or areas that are not visible from adjacent public and private space for safety reasons.

(d)

Plantings should create visual interest and variety for all four seasons, as well as provide shade for seating areas in warmer months along with other functional considerations.

(2)

Plant materials in other locations: should be selected and placed to reflect both ornamental and functional characteristics.

(a)

Deciduous trees should be the predominant large plant material used. They should be located adjacent to buildings and within parking areas to provide shade in summer and allow sun in winter. Species should be selected to be drought-tolerant, provide fall color and minimize litter and other maintenance problems.

(b)

Evergreen shrubs and trees should be used as a screening device, for example, along rear property lines, around mechanical appurtenances and to obscure grillwork and fencing associated with subsurface parking garages.

(c)

Flowering shrubs and trees - should be used where they can be most appreciated: adjacent to walks and recreational areas, or framing building entries, stairs, and walks (Figure 12).

Figure 11: Example of Canopy Tress for Shade, and Benches for People to Gather

Figure 12: Example of Flowering Shrubs and Trees and some Xeriscape Plants

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)

A-2.5.1

Guidelines.

The following guidelines apply for lighting in public spaces such as plazas and/or parks within the designated area:

(1)

Use functional, decorative and consistent lighting that gives the area a sense of identity (Figure 13).

(2)

Illuminate all accessible paths with low lights or landscape lighting.

(3)

Provide lighting for all seating areas with enough illumination to remain functional for evening activities.

A-2.5.2

Standards. All properties shall adhere to the City of Golden lighting standards in chapter 18.34.

(Ord. No. 2209, § 2(Exh. J), 6-6-2023)