Greenfield City Zoning Code
ARTICLE IV
Use Regulations
§ 200-8 Application of use regulations.
B.
Statutory exemptions.
(1)
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit, regulate or restrict the use of land or structure in any district for religious purposes or for educational purposes on land owned or leased by the Commonwealth or any of its agencies, subdivisions or bodies politic or by a religious sect or denomination, or by a nonprofit educational corporation; however, such land or structures may be subject to regulations concerning the bulk and height of structures and determining yard sizes, lot area, setbacks, open space, parking and building coverage requirements in accordance with this chapter.
(2)
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit, unreasonably regulate or require a special permit for agriculture, horticulture, floriculture or viticulture, provided that such uses are located on parcels containing at least five acres.
C.
D.
Uses permitted in all districts by special permit.
(1)
Activities accessory to activities otherwise permitted within the district as a matter of right, which activities are necessary in connection with scientific research or scientific activities permitted as a matter of right, subject to the provisions of § 200-60 for a special permit granted by the Board of Appeals.
(2)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(4)
Uses not elsewhere classified.
F.
Use regulation schedule. Where an activity might be classified under more than one of the following uses the more restrictive classification shall determine permissibility.
§ 200-9 Rural Residential District (RC).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Rural Residential District is to provide areas for low-density residential development and for agricultural uses.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery, or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(7)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(8)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(9)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have not been produced on the premises.
(4)
Family day-care home.
(5)
Dormitories.
(7)
Cemetery or crematory.
(8)
Public or private utility or substation.
(9)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use including towers.
(11)
Outdoor recreation.
(12)
Commercial camping.
(13)
Animal kennel or hospital.
(15)
Shared housing.
(16)
Assisted living facility.
(17)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(18)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(19)
Marijuana cultivator pursuant to § 200-55, provided that any structure erected for such use in the RC Zoning District must also be usable either for other agricultural use (such as hoop houses, greenhouses and barns), or for residential use.
[Amended 3-17-2021]
(20)
Marijuana product manufacturing and marijuana retailer as accessory uses to the use "marijuana cultivator" pursuant to § 200-55.
[Amended 3-17-2021]
(21)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-10 Suburban Residential District (RB).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Suburban Residential District is to provide areas for medium-density residential development.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(7)
Building integrated solar energy system.
(8)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(9)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have not been produced on the premises.
(5)
Dormitories.
(6)
Shared housing.
(7)
Nursing home, convalescent home, rest home.
(9)
Family day-care home.
(11)
Cemetery or crematory.
(12)
Public or private utility or substation.
(13)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use excluding towers.
(14)
Hospital.
(15)
Outdoor recreation.
(16)
Animal kennel or hospital.
(17)
Assisted living facility.
(18)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(19)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(20)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-11 Urban Residential District (RA).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Urban Residential District is to provide areas for high-density residential development.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(7)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(8)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(9)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have not been produced on the premises.
(5)
Nursing home, convalescent home, rest home.
(7)
Family day-care home.
(8)
Shared housing.
(10)
Cemetery.
(11)
Public or private utility or substation.
(12)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use excluding towers.
(13)
Funeral home.
(14)
Hospital.
(15)
Municipal parking lot or garage.
(16)
Lodging/boarding house.
(17)
Animal kennel or hospital.
(18)
Assisted living facility.
(19)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(20)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-12 Semi-Residential District (SR).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Semi-Residential District is to provide a mixed use area as a transition between the Central Commercial District and the residential districts.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(6)
Business and professional offices requiring 10 or fewer parking spaces.
(7)
Family day-care home.
(8)
Philanthropic or charitable institution.
(9)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(10)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(11)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Private club or membership organization.
(3)
Greenhouse nursery or farm stand where 50% or more of the products for sale have not been produced on the premises.
(5)
Public or private utility or substation.
(6)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use excluding towers.
(7)
Funeral home.
(8)
Crematory.
(10)
Lodging/boarding/rooming house.
(11)
Shared housing.
(15)
Animal kennel or hospital.
(16)
Assisted living facility.
(17)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(18)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-13 Health Service District (H).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Health Service District is to provide an area for medical and medical-related uses and for residences.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(6)
Hospital.
(7)
Family day-care home.
(8)
Nursing home, convalescent home, or rest home.
(9)
Business and professional offices related to health services.
(10)
Medical center/clinic including accessory research.
(11)
Cafeterias for employees, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(12)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(13)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(14)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(15)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Funeral home.
(5)
Dormitories in conjunction with a medical training facility only.
(6)
Shared housing.
(7)
Medical research and development.
(8)
Crematory.
(11)
Assisted living facility.
(17)
Municipal or commercial parking lot or garage.
(18)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-14 Central Commercial District (CC).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Central Commercial District is to provide a downtown area with the range of business sales and services which generally constitute a central business district.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand.
(2)
Municipal or commercial parking lot or garage.
(3)
Bus or railroad passenger terminal or taxi dispatch.
(4)
Philanthropic or charitable institution.
(5)
Private club or membership organization.
(8)
Photocopying and data processing.
(9)
Retail establishment.
(10)
Business and professional offices.
(11)
Personal and consumer service establishments.
(12)
Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, business and consumer products.
(13)
Restaurant, bar or lounge for serving food or drinks primarily within the building.
(14)
Take-out food restaurant.
(15)
Theatre.
(16)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(17)
Garden center.
(19)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(20)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(21)
Makerspace.
(22)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
(23)
Three-family dwelling.
(24)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(25)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms on parcels of less than five acres with livestock or poultry.
(2)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use excluding towers.
(4)
Funeral home.
(5)
Hotel, motel, inn.
(6)
Indoor recreation.
(7)
Medical center/clinic including accessory research.
(8)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(9)
Wholesale laundry or dry-cleaning plant.
(10)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(12)
Lodging/boarding/rooming house only as a mixed residential/business use in accordance with § 200-48.
(13)
Shared housing.
(14)
Research and development facilities.
(15)
Conference center.
(16)
Trade shop including carpenter, builder, electrician, plumber, landscaper or similar trade with indoor storage of tools, supplies, and equipment.
(17)
Sale, leasing, repair, and servicing of new and used motor vehicles with a Class 1 Motor Vehicle license issued by the City of Greenfield.
(18)
Assisted living facility.
(25)
Retail sales incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
(26)
Single-family dwelling.
(27)
Two-family dwelling.
(28)
Bed-and-breakfast or tourist home.
(29)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-15 Limited Commercial District (LC).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Limited Commercial District is to provide areas for retail business serving the nonpedestrian and for automotive sales and services.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand.
(2)
Single-family dwelling.
(3)
Two-family dwelling.
(4)
Three-family dwelling.
(5)
Bed-and-breakfast or tourist home.
(6)
Municipal or commercial parking lot or garage.
(7)
Bus or railroad passenger terminal or taxi dispatch.
(8)
Philanthropic or charitable institution.
(9)
Private club or membership organization.
(11)
Retail establishment.
(12)
Business and professional offices.
(13)
Personal and consumer service establishments.
(14)
Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, business and consumer products.
(15)
Restaurant, bar, or lounge for serving food or drinks primarily within the building.
(16)
Take-out restaurant.
(17)
Drive-in or drive-through restaurant.
(18)
Car wash (on public sewer only).
(19)
Hotel, motel or inn.
(20)
Funeral home.
(21)
Crematory.
(22)
Sale or leasing of motor vehicles, boats, farm implements, campers or other vehicles or heavy equipment.
(23)
Photocopying and data processing.
(24)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(25)
Construction supply establishment.
(26)
Theatre.
(27)
Conference center.
(28)
Trade shop including carpenter, builder, electrician, plumber, landscaper or similar trade with indoor storage of tools, supplies, and equipment.
(29)
Garden center.
(30)
Medical center/clinic including accessory research.
(31)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(32)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(33)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(34)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
(35)
Makerspace.
(36)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
(38)
Retail sales incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Public or private utility or substation.
(3)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use excluding towers.
(6)
Bed-and-breakfast or tourist home.
(7)
Automotive repair and servicing shop.
(8)
Gas station.
(9)
Indoor recreation.
(10)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(11)
Wholesale laundry or dry-cleaning plant.
(12)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(13)
Research and development facilities.
(14)
Assisted living facility.
(22)
Sale, leasing, repair, and servicing of new and used motor vehicles with a Class 1 Motor Vehicle license issued by the City of Greenfield.
(23)
Self storage.
(24)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-16 General Commercial District (GC).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the General Commercial District is to provide areas for mixed retail, commercial and industrial uses.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand.
(2)
Municipal or commercial parking lot or garage.
(3)
Bus or railroad passenger terminal or taxi dispatch.
(4)
Philanthropic or charitable institution.
(5)
Private club or membership organization.
(7)
Retail establishment.
(8)
Business and professional offices.
(9)
Personal and consumer service establishments.
(10)
Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, business and consumer products.
(11)
Restaurant, bar, or lounge for serving food or drinks primarily within the building.
(12)
Take-out restaurant.
(13)
Drive-in or drive-through restaurant.
(14)
Car wash (on public sewer only).
(15)
Hotel, motel or inn.
(16)
Funeral home.
(17)
Crematory.
(18)
Sale or leasing of motor vehicles, boats, farm implements, campers or other vehicles or heavy equipment.
(19)
Construction supply establishment.
(20)
Theatre.
(21)
Photocopying and data processing.
(22)
Conference center.
(23)
Self storage.
(24)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers, and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(25)
Trade shop including carpenter, builder, electrician, plumber, landscaper or similar trade with indoor storage of tools, supplies, and equipment.
(26)
Garden center.
(27)
Medical center or clinic including accessory research.
(28)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(29)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(30)
Makerspace.
(31)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
(33)
Retail sales incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
(34)
Two-family dwelling.
(35)
Three-family dwelling.
(36)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(37)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Public or private utility or substation.
(3)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use including towers.
(6)
Single-family dwelling.
(7)
Lodging/boarding/rooming house.
(8)
Dormitories.
(9)
Bed-and-breakfast or tourist home.
(10)
Automotive repair and servicing shop.
(11)
Gas station.
(12)
Bulk storage and/or sale of fuel or other fluid other than waste.
(13)
Indoor recreation.
(14)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(15)
Wholesale laundry or dry cleaning plant.
(16)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(17)
Waste hauling establishment.
(18)
Warehouse or freight transport terminal.
(19)
Assembly, bottling, packaging or finishing plant in an enclosed building.
(20)
Research and development facilities.
(21)
Contractor's yard or other open storage of raw materials, finished goods, or equipment.
(22)
Animal kennel or hospital.
(23)
Light industry, manufacturing or processing plant which will not be offensive, noxious, or hazardous.
(24)
Assisted living facility.
(25)
Renewable/alternative energy R&D facility.
(26)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(36)
Sale, leasing, repair, and servicing of new and used motor vehicles with a Class 1 Motor Vehicle license issued by the City of Greenfield.
(37)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-17 Office District (O).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Office District is to provide areas for office use and office parks.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Home occupation.
(3)
Philanthropic institution.
(4)
Business or professional office.
(5)
Office park.
(6)
Photocopying and data processing.
(7)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(8)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(9)
Self storage.
(10)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(11)
Medical center/clinic including accessory research.
(12)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(13)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(14)
Makerspace.
(15)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Public or private utility or substation.
(3)
Radio, television transmission and other communications use excluding towers.
(4)
Research and development facilities.
(5)
Assembly, bottling, packaging, or finishing plant in an enclosed building.
(7)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(9)
Light industry, manufacturing, or processing plant.
(14)
Retail sales incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
D.
Design requirements.
(1)
A landscaped buffer strip at least 15 feet wide, continuous except for approach driveways, shall be established adjacent to any public road to visually separate parking and other uses from the road. The buffer strip shall be planted with a combination of grass or other herbaceous plants, shrubs at least three feet in height upon maturity, and shade trees (three-inch diameter) not farther apart than 40 feet on center. Plantings shall be set back from points of ingress and egress so as not to impair visibility.
§ 200-18 General Industry District (GI).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the General Industry District is to provide areas for light industry and manufacturing which do not intrude on residential areas.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Home occupation.
(3)
Philanthropic institution.
(4)
Photocopying and data processing.
(5)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(6)
Business and professional offices.
(7)
Office park.
(8)
Research and development facilities.
(9)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(10)
Assembly, bottling, packaging, or finishing plant in an enclosed building.
(11)
Warehouse or freight transport terminal.
(12)
Trucking firm (on public sewer only).
(13)
Construction supply establishment.
(14)
Contractor's yard or other open storage of raw materials, finished goods, or equipment.
(15)
Light industry, manufacturing or processing plant which will not be offensive, injurious, noxious, or hazardous.
(16)
Trade shop including carpenter, builder, electrician, plumber, landscaper or similar trade with indoor storage of tools, supplies, and equipment.
(17)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(18)
Self storage.
(19)
Medical center/clinic including accessory research.
(20)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(21)
Renewable/alternative energy R&D facility.
(22)
Renewable/alternative energy manufacturing facility.
(23)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(24)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(26)
Makerspace.
(27)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
(28)
Retail establishment.
(29)
Restaurant, bar, or lounge for serving food or drinks primarily within the building.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Radio, television transmission and other communications use including towers.
(3)
Public or private utility or substation.
(4)
Power plant.
(5)
Automotive repair and servicing shop.
(6)
Salvage/junkyard.
(8)
Waste hauling establishment.
(9)
Retail sales incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
(11)
Wholesale laundry and dry-cleaning plant.
(12)
Bulk storage and/or sale of fuel or other fluid other than waste.
(13)
Personal and consumer service establishment.
(15)
Private club or membership organization.
(19)
Bus or railroad passenger terminal or taxi dispatch.
(20)
Sale or leasing of motor vehicles, boats, farm implements, campers or other vehicles or heavy equipment.
(21)
Sale, leasing, repair, and servicing of new and used motor vehicles with a Class 1 Motor Vehicle license issued by the City of Greenfield.
(22)
Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, business and consumer products.
(25)
Accessory dwelling unit, within.
(26)
Accessory dwelling unit, attached.
(27)
Accessory dwelling unit, detached.
§ 200-19 Planned Industry District (PI).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Planned Industry District is to promote the industrial development of the City by providing a zone for park-like development of industry which is protected from commercial and residential encroachment while minimizing potential adverse environmental impacts.
B.
Uses permitted.
(1)
Greenhouse, nursery or farmstand where 50% or more of the products for sale have been produced on the premises.
(2)
Home occupation.
(3)
Business and professional offices.
(4)
Office park.
(5)
Photocopying and data processing.
(6)
Newspaper, printing, publishing.
(7)
Research and development facility.
(8)
Wholesale trade and distribution.
(9)
Trucking firm (on public sewer only).
(10)
Warehouse or freight transport terminal.
(11)
Assembly, bottling, packaging or finishing plant in an enclosed building.
(12)
Light industry, manufacturing or processing plant.
(13)
Retail sales which are incidental to a permitted use or use allowed by special permit.
(14)
Private/public utility or substation in an enclosed building.
(15)
Philanthropic or charitable institution.
(16)
Cafeterias for employees, automatic teller machines, automated vending kiosks, day-care centers and other normal accessory uses to a nonresidential use.
(17)
Large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installations.
(18)
Renewable/alternative energy R&D facility.
(19)
Renewable/alternative energy manufacturing facility.
(20)
Building-integrated solar energy system.
(21)
Small-scale ground-mounted solar energy system.
(23)
Makerspace.
(24)
Craft workshop and light assembly with related retail.
C.
Uses permitted by special permit.
(1)
Farms or the keeping of livestock or poultry on parcels of less than five acres.
(2)
Private industrial or trade school.
(3)
Municipal or commercial parking lot or garage.
(4)
Radio, television transmission or other communications use including towers.
(5)
Power plant.
(6)
Service and repair shops for appliances, small equipment, business and consumer products.
(7)
Wholesale laundry or dry-cleaning plant.
(8)
Open storage of raw materials, finished goods, or equipment.
(9)
Bulk storage and/or sale of fuel or other fluid other than waste.
D.
Design requirements.
(1)
A landscaped buffer strip at least 15 feet wide, continuous except for approved driveways, shall be established adjacent to any public road to visually separate parking and other uses from the road. The buffer strip shall be planted with a combination of grass or other herbaceous plants, shrubs at least three feet in height upon maturity, and shade trees (three-inch diameter) 40 feet on center. Plantings shall be set back from points of ingress and egress so as not to impair visibility.
(2)
Uses shall be screened from view from adjacent residential property by a continuous border of dense plantings or by berms or fences complemented by plantings and maintained to provide an effective visual screen in accordance with § 200-36B of this chapter.
(3)
Any outdoor storage or utility area shall be screened from view from neighboring properties and streets in the same manner as in Subsection D(2) above. Any nuisance or safety hazard shall be screened to prevent unauthorized access to the area.
(5)
More than one principal building/use is allowed on a lot. At least 50 feet of separation is required between buildings.
§ 200-20 Floodplain District (F).
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Floodplain District is to:
(1)
Ensure public safety through reducing the threats to life and personal injury;
(2)
Eliminate new hazards to emergency response officials;
(3)
Prevent the occurrence of public emergencies resulting from water quality, contamination, and pollution due to flooding;
(4)
Avoid the loss of utility services which if damaged by flooding would disrupt or shut down the utility network and impact regions of the community beyond the site of flooding;
(5)
Eliminate costs associated with the response and cleanup of flooding conditions;
(6)
Reduce damage to public and private property resulting from flooding waters.
B.
District delineation.
(1)
The Floodplain District is herein established as an overlay district. The District includes all special flood hazard areas designated on the City of Greenfield's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency for the administration of the National Flood Insurance Program, dated July 2, 1980, and on the Flood Boundary & Floodway Map dated July 2, 1980. These maps indicate the 1% chance regulatory floodplain. The exact boundaries of the District shall be defined by the 1% chance base flood elevations shown on the FIRM and further defined by the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) report dated January 1980. The effective FIRM, FBFM, and FIS report are incorporated herein by reference and are on file with the City Clerk, Planning Board, Inspector of Buildings, and Conservation Commission.
(2)
Floodway encroachment.
(a)
In Zones A, A1-30, and AE, along watercourses that have not had a regulatory floodway designated, the best available federal, state, local, or other floodway data shall be used to prohibit encroachments in floodways which would result in any increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(b)
In Zones A1-30 and AE, along watercourses that have a regulatory floodway designated on the City's Flood Boundary & Floodway Map, encroachments are prohibited in the regulatory floodway which would result in any increase in flood levels within the community during the occurrence of the base flood discharge.
(3)
Base flood elevation data. Base flood elevation data is required for subdivision proposals or other developments greater than 50 lots or five acres, whichever is the lesser. The proponent must provide technical data to determine base flood elevations for each developable parcel shown on the design plans.
(4)
Within Zones AH and AO on the FIRM, adequate drainage paths must be provided around structures on slopes, to guide floodwaters around and away from proposed structures.
(6)
Unnumbered A Zones. In A Zones, in the absence of FEMA BFE data and floodway data, the building department will obtain, review and reasonably utilize base flood elevation and floodway data available from a federal, state, or other source as criteria for requiring new construction, substantial improvements, or other development in Zone A as the basis for elevating residential structures to or above base flood level, for floodproofing or elevating nonresidential structures to or above base flood level, and for prohibiting encroachments in floodways.
(7)
Recreational vehicles. In A1-30, AH, and AE Zones, all recreational vehicles to be placed on a site must be elevated and anchored in accordance with the zone's regulations for foundation and elevation requirements or be on the site for less than 180 consecutive days or be fully licensed and highway ready.
C.
Notification of watercourse alteration. In a riverine situation, the Inspector of Buildings shall notify the following of any alteration or relocation of a watercourse:
(1)
Adjacent communities.
(2)
Bordering states (optional).
(3)
NFIP State Coordinator
Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation
251 Causeway Street, Suite 600-700
Boston, MA 02114-2104
(4)
NFIP Program Specialist
Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region I
99 High Street, 6th Floor
Boston, MA 02110
D.
Requirement to submit new technical data. If the City acquires data that changes the base flood elevation in the FEMA mapped special flood hazard areas, the City will, within six months, notify FEMA of these changes by submitting the technical or scientific data that supports the change(s). Notification shall be submitted to:
FEMA Region I Risk Analysis Branch Chief 99 High Street, 6th floor, Boston, MA 02110 |
And copy of notification to: |
Massachusetts NFIP State Coordinator MA Dept. of Conservation & Recreation 251 Causeway Street, Boston, MA 02114 |
E.
Variances and permits.
(1)
Variances to Building Code Floodplain Standards.
(a)
The City will request from the State Building Code Appeals Board a written and/or audible copy of the portion of the hearing related to the variance, and will maintain this record in the community's files.
(b)
The City shall also issue a letter to the property owner regarding potential impacts to the annual premiums for the flood insurance policy covering that property, in writing over the signature of a community official that:
(c)
Such notification shall be maintained with the record of all variance actions for the referenced development in the floodplain overlay district.
(2)
Variances to local zoning ordinances related to community compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). A variance from this section must meet the requirements set out by state law, and may only be granted if:
(3)
Permits are required for all proposed development in the Floodplain Overlay District. The City of Greenfield requires a permit for all proposed construction or other development in the floodplain overlay district, including new construction or changes to existing buildings, placement of manufactured homes, placement of agricultural facilities, fences, sheds, storage facilities or drilling, mining, paving and any other development that might increase flooding or adversely impact flood risks to other properties.
(4)
Assure that all necessary permits are obtained. Greenfield's permit review process includes the use of a checklist of all local, state and federal permits that will be necessary in order to carry out the proposed development in the Floodplain Overlay District. The proponent must acquire all necessary permits, and must submit the completed checklist demonstrating that all necessary permits have been acquired.
F.
Use regulations. The Floodplain District is established as an overlay district to all other districts. The requirements of the underlying district shall govern subject to the provisions of this section. All development, including structural and nonstructural activities, whether permitted by right or by special permit shall be in compliance with the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL c. 131, § 40, and with the requirements of the Massachusetts State Building Code pertaining to construction in the floodplains.
G.
Permitted uses. The following uses of low flood damage potential and causing no obstructions to flood flows shall be allowed in the 100-year floodplain provided they are permitted in the underlying district and they do not require structures, fill, or storage of materials or equipment:
(1)
Agricultural uses such as farming, grazing, truck farming, horticulture, etc.;
(2)
Forestry and nursery uses;
(3)
Outdoor recreational uses, including fishing, boating, play areas, etc.;
(4)
Conservation of water, plants, wildlife;
(5)
Wildlife management areas, foot, bicycle, and horse paths;
(6)
Temporary nonresidential structures used in connection with fishing, growing, harvesting, storage, or sale of crops raised on the premises;
(7)
Buildings lawfully existing prior to the adoption of these provisions;
(8)
Installation of utility, sewer or septic systems, water supplies and production, and water lines provided the Department of Public Works is satisfied that there is adequate protection against breaking, leaking, short-circuiting, grounding, igniting, or floating during flooding;
(9)
The portion of any lot within the Floodplain District may be used to meet the lot area or yard requirements for the district in which the remainder of the lot is located.
H.
Special permits. No encroachment shall be permitted within the 100-year floodplain as shown on the FIRM Maps unless a special permit is granted by the Zoning Board of Appeals. Encroachment shall include:
(1)
Structures or buildings erected, constructed, or otherwise created or moved;
(2)
Reconstruction or repair due to flood damage and improvement or expansion of any building or structure lawfully existing prior to the adoption of these provisions;
(3)
Storage, dumping, filling, excavation, disposal or transfer of earth or other material;
(4)
Installation of driveways or roads to serve areas outside the floodplain district where other access is not feasible.
I.
Special permit conditions. The Zoning Board of Appeals may grant a special permit under this section if the application complies with the following conditions (subject to other applicable provisions of this chapter):
(1)
The proposed use shall comply in all respects with the provisions of the underlying district and shall be, to the maximum extent feasible, consistent with the purposes of the Floodplain District;
(2)
All encroachments, including fill, new construction, substantial improvements to existing structures, and other developments are prohibited unless certification by a registered professional civil engineer, hydrologist or other professional competent in such matters is provided by the applicant demonstrating that such encroachment shall not result in any decrease in flood storage capacity or increase in flood levels during the occurrence of the 100-year flood. The Board shall have the right to retain a registered professional civil engineer, hydrologist or other professional to verify this information. The applicant shall be responsible for the reasonable costs of such advice;
(3)
The Board may specify such additional requirements and conditions it finds necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public and the occupants of the proposed use, and of the Floodplain District;
(4)
The use complies with the State Building Code relative to construction in the floodplain and a determination has been made that the use will not result in increased flood heights, additional threats to public safety, or extraordinary public expense, create nuisances, cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with existing local laws;
(5)
The applicant has established that the land is not unsuitable for the proposed use, based on hydrological/topographic data supplied by a registered professional civil engineer, hydrologist or other qualified professional;
(6)
A determination has been made by the Conservation Commission that the use complies with the Wetlands Protection Act, MGL c. 131, § 40;
(7)
Water supply systems shall not be subject to interruption or contamination during flooding;
(8)
Sewage disposal systems shall not be damaged when subject to inundation, or cause contamination during flooding;
(9)
Utilities shall be located and constructed to prevent flood damage;
(10)
The use shall not substantially affect the water table or water quality or substantially change the natural flow of floodwaters and drainage patterns of the area.
J.
Special permit procedures.
(1)
The applicant shall submit to the Zoning Board of Appeals five copies of an application and site plan stamped by a registered land surveyor or a registered professional civil engineer showing the location, boundaries and dimensions of the lot or lots to be created; existing and proposed contours at five-foot intervals (or other interval as approved by the Board); the location and dimensions of any existing and proposed structures or uses; means of access; sewage disposal facilities; leach fields; parking areas; utilities; drainage systems and easements; watercourses; the boundary of the floodway; the boundary and elevation of the 100-year floodplain; and the elevation of the basement and first floor of any proposed buildings or structures. Where the development of a priority development site (PDS) requires a special permit hereunder, the aforesaid application and site plan shall be submitted simultaneously with any other permit application(s) required a) by this chapter or b) by the Code, generally, relating to the use or development of land, buildings or structures and not otherwise exempted by MGL c. 43D.
(2)
Within 10 days of receipt of the application, the Board shall transmit one copy of the plan to the Conservation Commission, Planning Board, Board of Health, and Inspector of Buildings. Final action shall not be taken until reports have been received from the above Boards or until 45 days have elapsed from the date of application.
K.
Prohibited uses. No encroachment shall be permitted in the floodway as shown on the FBFM Maps, and the following uses are prohibited in the 100-year floodplain:
(1)
Solid waste landfills, junkyards, dumps;
(2)
The manufacture, storage, or disposal of hazardous, toxic, or radioactive wastes;
(3)
The temporary or permanent storage or disposal of materials used in snow and ice control including sand, salt or other deicing chemicals;
(4)
The outdoor storage or placement of storage tanks, above or below ground, for petroleum products or other hazardous material;
(5)
The storage, dumping, filling, dredging, excavation, disposal, transfer, or removal of earth or other material except as permitted by special permit under this provision.
L.
Limit of authority. Nothing contained in this chapter of the City of Greenfield shall otherwise limit the lawful authority of other agencies of government within the City of Greenfield.
M.
Abrogation and greater restriction. The floodplain management regulations found in this Floodplain Overlay District section shall take precedence over any less restrictive conflicting local laws, ordinances or codes.
N.
Disclaimer of liability. The degree of flood protection required by this section is considered reasonable but does not imply total flood protection.
O.
Severability. If any section, provision or portion of this section is deemed to be unconstitutional or invalid by a court, the remainder of the section shall be effective.
P.
Designation of community floodplain administrator. The City of Greenfield hereby designates the position of the Director of the Department of Planning and Development to be the official floodplain administrator for the City.
Q.
Local enforcement. It shall be the duty of the Inspector of Buildings to enforce the provisions of this section.
§ 200-21 Water Supply Protection District (WP).
[Amended 3-20-2024]
A.
Purpose. The purpose of the Water Supply Protection District is to protect, preserve and maintain existing and potential sources of groundwater supply, groundwater recharge and watershed areas within the City for the public, health, safety and general welfare of the community.
(1)
The general boundaries of the Water Supply Protection District include Zones I, II, and III as shown on the Official Zoning Map dated June 21, 2023, and as amended. The Water Supply Protection District includes the Mill Brook well field and the recharge and watershed areas as determined by the hydrologic study titled "Aquifer Land Acquisition Study" prepared for the City of Greenfield, Department of Public Works by Tighe & Bond, Inc., of Easthampton, MA, August 1988. The District also includes the Leary Well Site Zone 1 and the one-half-mile interim Zone 2 required by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The District also includes the Caisson Well Site Zone I and Zone II recharge areas. The maps as well as the accompanying report are incorporated herein by reference and are on file with the City Clerk, Inspector of Buildings and Planning Board.
(2)
Zones I, II, and III are defined as follows:
(a)
Zone I is the 400-foot radius, or other designated area, surrounding a water supply well which must be in compliance with the DEP Drinking Water Regulations.
(b)
Zone II is that area of an aquifer which contributes water to a well under the most severe recharge and pumping conditions that can be realistically anticipated. It is bounded by the groundwater divides which result from pumping the well and by the contact of the edge of the aquifer with less permeable materials such as till and bedrock. At some locations, streams and lakes may form recharge boundaries.
(c)
Zone III is that land area beyond the area of Zone II from which surface water and groundwater drain into Zone II. The surface drainage area as determined by topography is commonly coincident with the groundwater drainage area and will be used to delineate Zone III. In some locations, where surface water and groundwater drainage are not coincident, Zone III shall consist of both the surface drainage and the groundwater drainage areas.
(3)
Where the bounds of the Water Supply Protection District as delineated are in doubt or dispute, the burden of proof shall be upon the owner(s) of the land in question to show where the bounds should be properly located. At the request of the owner(s), the City may engage a professional hydrogeologist, geologist, engineer or other competent professional to determine the accuracy of the location and extent of Zones I, II, and III and charge the owner(s) for the cost of the investigation. The investigation shall conform to the specifications for delineating Zones I, II, and III as described in 310 CMR 24.06. The Inspector of Buildings, based on a recommendation from the Department of Public Works, retains the authority to make a final determination on an exemption from the boundaries of the Water Supply Protection District.
B.
Use regulations. The Water Supply Protection District is established as an overlay district. Land in the Water Supply Protection District shall be subject to the requirements of this section as well as to all other requirements of this Zoning Ordinance which apply to the underlying zoning districts. Uses that are not permitted in the underlying district shall not be permitted in the Water Supply Protection District. Where the requirements of the underlying district differ, the requirements of the Water Supply Protection District shall govern.
C.
Uses permitted in all Water Supply Protection District Zones. The following uses are permitted in all Water Supply Protection District Zones, provided that all other provisions of this section and this chapter are complied with:
(1)
Conservation, parks, wildlife areas;
(2)
Outdoor recreation, including nature study, boating, fishing, foot, bicycle and horse paths, boardwalks, and bridges;
(3)
Normal operation and maintenance of existing water bodies and dams, splash boards, and other water control, supply and conservation devices;
(4)
Farming, gardening, nursery, conservation, forestry, harvesting and grazing, provided that fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, and other leachable materials are stored within a structure designed to prevent the generation and escape of contaminated runoff or leachate.
(5)
Customary accessory uses to a permitted use and maintenance and repair of existing structures, provided that there is no increase in impervious surfaces in excess of 15% of lot area.
(6)
Municipal facilities related to the provision of water supply.
D.
Uses permitted in Zone II and III. In addition to the uses listed in Subsection C, the following uses are permitted in Zone II and III, provided they are permitted in the underlying district and comply with all other provisions of this section and this chapter:
(1)
Open space/cluster developments;
(2)
Detached single-family dwelling with a minimum lot size of 60,000 square feet;
(3)
Detached two-family dwelling with a minimum lot size of 80,000 square feet;
(4)
Detached three-family dwelling with a minimum lot size of 100,000 square feet;
(5)
Municipal administration, fire, police, and library buildings.
E.
Uses allowed by special permit in Zone II and III.
(1)
Commercial and industrial uses permitted in the underlying district not otherwise restricted in Subsection F.
(2)
Public and private utilities and substations.
(3)
Other municipal or governmental uses not listed in § 200-21D(5).
F.
Prohibited uses in all Water Supply Protection Zones.
(1)
Solid waste landfills, dumps, junk, salvage, brush and stump dumps, recycling yards and all other disposal of materials except normal agricultural practices.
(2)
Sewage treatment facilities.
(3)
Car and truck washes.
(4)
Motor vehicle sales or leasing establishments.
(5)
Trucking or bus terminals.
(6)
Dry-cleaning establishments.
(7)
Earth removal.
(8)
Golf courses.
(9)
Industrial or commercial uses which involve the disposal or storage of process wastewater from other than personal hygiene and food, including any use which requires a permit from the Department of Environmental Protection under the Massachusetts Groundwater Discharge Regulations, 314 CMR 5.00.
(10)
Any use which involves the manufacture, use, processing, storage, transportation, or disposal of hazardous materials or wastes, including but not limited to:
(11)
The disposal of liquid or leachable wastes except sewage disposal systems and normal agricultural operations.
(12)
The storage of liquid hazardous materials and/or liquid petroleum products unless such storage is:
(a)
Above ground level; and
(b)
On an impervious surface; and
(c)
Either:
[1]
In containers or aboveground tanks within a building; or
[2]
Outdoors in covered containers or aboveground tanks in an area that has a containment system designed and operated to hold either 10% of the total possible storage capacity of all containers, or 110% of the largest container's storage capacity, whichever is greater. [See 310 CMR 22.21(2)(b)(5).]
(13)
Outdoor storage of salt, deicing chemicals, pesticides, or herbicides.
(14)
The use of septic system cleaners which contain toxic chemicals.
(15)
Dumping of snow which is brought in from outside the district.
(16)
Land uses that result in the rendering impervious any lot or parcel more than 15% of lot area.
(17)
Multifamily dwellings.
(18)
The storage of sludge and septage; unless such storage is in compliance with 310 CMR 32.30 and 32.31. [See 310 CMR 22.21(2)(b)(1).]
(19)
The storage of chemical fertilizers; unless such storage is within a structure designed to prevent the generation and escape of contaminated runoff and leachate. [See 310 CMR 22.21(2)(b)(3).]
(20)
The storage of animal manures, unless such storage is within a structure designed to prevent the generation and escape of contaminated runoff or leachate. [See 310 CMR 22.21(2)(b)(4).]
G.
Special permits.
(1)
Special permit granting authority. For purposes of the Water Supply Protection District, the Planning Board shall be the Special Permit Granting Authority.
(2)
Procedures. Special permit procedures and submittal requirements shall be in accordance with § 200-60, Special permits, and § 200-61, Site plan review and approval. In addition, the applicant shall submit a complete list of chemicals, pesticides, fuels and other potentially hazardous materials to be used, generated, or stored on the premises and proposed structures and measures to prevent leaks and control of spills.
(3)
Special permit criteria. Special permits shall be granted only if:
(a)
The proposed use shall comply in all respects with the provisions of the underlying district and will promote the purposes of the Water Supply Protection District;
(b)
The proposed use is appropriate to the natural topography, soils, and other characteristics of the site to be developed;
(c)
The proposed use shall not have any adverse environmental impact on the aquifer or recharge areas;
(d)
The proposed use shall not result in a reduction of groundwater recharge on the premises or a deterioration of existing groundwater or surface water quality, whether or not such water meets established state or federal standards;
(e)
The Planning Board may impose any reasonable requirements, conditions, standards, or limitations to ensure that the proposed use meets the purpose and requirements of this section;
(f)
The Planning Board may require, as a condition of the special permit, groundwater monitoring wells or sampling of the discharge to on-site septic systems or dry wells. Reports shall be submitted to the Planning Board, Board of Health, Department of Public Works, and the Inspector of Buildings;
(g)
Uses allowed by special permit in the underlying district which are not specifically listed in this section shall also comply with the requirements for a special permit under this section.
H.
Dimensional requirements. The minimum lot area in the Water Supply Protection District shall be 60,000 square feet with 200 feet of frontage.
I.
Limitations upon uses. All uses within the Water Supply Protection District shall be subject to the following limitations:
(1)
Provision shall be made to protect against toxic or hazardous materials discharged or lost through corrosion, accidental damage, spillage or vandalism through such measures as spill control in the vicinity of chemical or fuel delivery points, secure storage areas for toxic or hazardous materials, and indoor storage of corrodible or dissolvable materials;
(2)
Where the premises are partially outside of the Water Supply Protection District, such potential pollution sources as on-site waste disposal systems shall, to the degree feasible, be located outside the district;
(3)
All runoff from impervious surfaces shall be recharged on the site, diverted towards areas covered with vegetation for surface infiltration to the extent possible. Dry wells shall be used only where other methods are infeasible, and shall be preceded by oil, grease, and sediment traps to facilitate removal of contamination.
§ 200-23 Corridor Overlay District (CO).
A.
District boundaries. The Corridor Overlay District shall apply to the following roadway corridors: French King Highway/High Street.
(1)
French King Highway/High Street Corridor. Overlay District shall apply to the following roadway corridors: 1) land extending from the intersection of Clark Street and High Street along High Street south to Smith Street and 2) the land east of The French King Highway and north of Canada Hill Road to the junction of French King Highway and Route 2.
B.
Purpose. The purpose of the Corridor Overlay District is to create attractive entryways into Greenfield, to minimize strip development and traffic congestion, to protect scenic and natural features, and to promote high quality building and site design.
C.
Use regulations.
(1)
The Corridor Overlay District shall overlay the existing zoning districts within its boundaries, and the requirements of the district shall be in addition to the requirements of the underlying district. Where the requirements differ, the more restrictive requirements shall govern. All uses permitted in the underlying district are permitted unless otherwise regulated in the Corridor Overlay District.
(2)
Gas stations and take-out, drive-in, or drive-through restaurants shall be prohibited in the French King Highway/High Street Corridor.
(3)
Accessory recreational uses located outside, such as playgrounds or play sets, shall be located to the rear or side of buildings and shall require site plan approval from the Planning Board.
(4)
Pad sites generally defined as accessory structures or freestanding structures not part of the anchor buildings shall not limit site accessibility or obscure the view of the anchor buildings.
(5)
More than one principal building and use is permitted on a lot except for residential uses in all districts and for underlying residential districts unless otherwise specified in this chapter.
D.
Access requirements.
(1)
Common driveways and parallel service drives are permitted in the Corridor Overlay District with site plan approval from the Planning Board.
(2)
Consolidation of access driveways is encouraged for redevelopment of existing sites and may be required by the Planning Board during site plan approval if traffic generation will be increased by the redevelopment.
(3)
The length and width of driveways shall be sized to accommodate the anticipated traffic. Access points shall be located to the best advantage giving consideration to maximizing distances between other curb cuts and roadway intersections, coordinating or sharing of access points with existing or future developments, street alignment, site distance, and grades. Access points may be required to be signalized. Preference shall be given to sharing of access points which are already signalized rather than adding new signalized access points.
E.
Utilities.
(1)
All uses in the Corridor Overlay District requiring water or sewage disposal service except single-family residences shall be connected to the public water and sewer systems.
(2)
All utility lines shall be placed underground. This provision shall not apply to existing uses or to any residential uses unless required by the Planning Board under site plan approval for a substantial expansion or redevelopment of the site.
F.
Ridge and slope protection. The ridgeline on the east side of French King Highway/High Street is a prominent feature visible from within the Corridor and from distant vantage points in the region. The following requirements apply to all development except single-family residences in the French King Highway/High Street Corridor.
(1)
The ridgeline and its contour shall not be altered, excavated, or disturbed.
(2)
Structures or fixtures including but not limited to buildings, light poles, flagpoles, and signs shall not be visible above the ridgeline when viewed from the east. Minor gaps in ridgeline screening may be permitted by the Planning Board if supplemented with plantings to prevent visibility.
G.
Buffer requirements.
(1)
French King Highway/High Street Corridor. In the General Industry District, a landscaped or naturally vegetated buffer at least 30 feet wide, continuous except for approved driveways, shall be established adjacent to any public roads to visually separate the development from the road. Existing wetland and wooded areas along roadways shall be preserved and included in the landscaped buffer to the maximum extent possible except to accommodate approved driveways. Buffer areas may incorporate drainage structures, signs, or other site details upon site plan approval from the Planning Board.
I.
Procedural requirements.
(1)
For any use in the Corridor Overlay District, the site plan approval authority and special permit granting authority shall be determined as follows: i) uses that are allowed by right in the underlying zone (pursuant to Article IV and the Table of Uses) shall be governed by the Planning Board; and ii) uses that require a special permit in the underlying zone (pursuant to Article IV and the Table of Uses) shall be governed by the Zoning Board of Appeals. For purposes of determining the site plan approval authority and the special permit granting authority within the Corridor Overlay District, this provision shall govern and supersede any other applicable special permit requirement(s) or provision(s) of this section. Any new development or changes to existing development in the Corridor Overlay District, excluding single-family residences but including signs, shall require site plan approval.
(2)
In addition to the site plan submittal requirements in § 200-61 of this chapter, site plans shall include:
(a)
Facade elevations of all proposed new construction or renovation including at least one color rendering.
(b)
Photographs showing the proposed building site and surrounding properties.
(c)
Drawings of proposed signs as they are to be located on the property including at least one copy of a color rendering.
(d)
A landscaping plan including plan and elevation views with at least one color rendering.
J.
Design guidelines. All development except single-family residences in the Corridor Overlay District shall comply with the Planning Board Design Guidelines. The guidelines are intended to express the City's design objectives for the Corridor and to provide direction to applicants in designing development and to the Zoning Board of Appeals in reviewing development in the Corridor Overlay District. The guidelines are intended to be flexible. Applicants shall address each design guideline but may propose alternative design solutions.
§ 200-24 Planned Unit Development Overlay District.
A.
Purpose. The Planned Unit Development Overlay District is designed to allow for planned unit developments in designated areas of City. Through a comprehensive site plan a unified development containing a mixture of land uses and buildings is developed as a single entity. It is the intent of this provision to ensure sound planning and zoning practices while allowing certain desirable departures from the strict provisions of specific zone classifications.
(1)
Encourage flexibility in the design of development through a carefully controlled review process of particular plans rather than the strict pre-regulation of all plans within a particular zoning district.
(2)
Promote the use of multiple-story buildings and campus-like clustering of buildings to maximize the amount of available open space.
(3)
Encourage a less sprawling form of development which makes more efficient use of land, requires shorter networks of streets and utilities and which fosters more economical development and less consumption of developable land.
(4)
Provide an efficient procedure which will ensure appropriate high-quality design and site planning.
(5)
Promote high quality coordinated building and site design which buffers adjacent residential uses and protects both scenic and natural features.
B. PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
Definition.
A development of land as a single entity under the direction of a comprehensive site plan, in which a mixture of land uses, a variety of building types and designs, and open space are provided for in a coherent manner.
C.
District boundaries. The boundaries of the Planned Unit Development Overlay District are delineated on the map titled "Planned Unit Development Overlay District Map," dated March 2004.
D.
Dimensional requirements. To be eligible for a planned unit development, the parcel must have at least 50 feet of frontage and have a minimum lot area of 60,000 square feet.
E.
Use regulations.
(1)
The uses allowed in a planned unit development are any uses allowed either by right or special permit within the underlying zoning district.
(2)
Uses in a planned unit development shall comply with all other applicable sections of this chapter in addition to the required provisions of this section.
(3)
More than one principal building and use is permitted on a lot.
(4)
A building height of 50 feet is permitted (subject to negotiation).
(5)
One or more separate but contiguous parcels may be assembled to create a planned unit development. Proposed planned unit developments may include pre-existing uses and buildings provided they are integrated into the development plan. Planned unit developments may consist of land in more than single ownership and may be subdivided into separate lots provided all current and future owners and lots are bound by restrictive covenant(s) to the planned development permit approvals and to maintain the project as a single planned unit development. Subdivision of lots within a planned unit development after final approval of the site plan shall be considered an amendment to the special permit and will require approval by the special permit granting authority.
F.
Access requirements.
(1)
Entrances to planned unit developments shall be limited to one access point onto a public way. The special permit granting authority may grant additional access points to improve traffic circulation if deemed necessary.
(2)
Common driveways and parallel service drives are encouraged in the planned unit development to consolidate driveway openings to a few widely spaced locations.
H.
Design requirements.
(1)
Developments shall have an integrated design with respect to building placement, proportion, color, rooflines, and other architectural details.
(2)
Developments must incorporate human scale features such as landscaping, pedestrian plazas and other public spaces, first-floor windows, pedestrian level lighting, benches, awnings and architectural details.
(3)
New buildings shall relate harmoniously to existing buildings on the site and to the surrounding neighborhood.
(4)
Boxy buildings should be softened with architectural details and landscaping. Pitched roof lines are encouraged.
(5)
Long unbroken facades are not allowed. The use of facade offsets, recesses, angular forms, and landscaping rather than ornamentation is encouraged to break up the mass of large or continuous walls.
(6)
The use of exterior building materials such as masonry, stone, wood, and brick is preferred.
(7)
Facade details and building elements shall be proportionate to the scale of the building.
(8)
The building's main entrance shall be clearly defined with architectural details such as raised parapets, peaked roofs, arches, canopies, and overhangs.
(9)
Rear or side facades visible from other uses, parking areas, or streets must be of finished quality and consistent with the buildings main facade, details, and elements and should be landscaped.
(10)
Parking areas shall be located to the side or rear of buildings when feasible. Large expanses of parking should be broken up with internal landscaping and dedicated pedestrian walkways.
(11)
All mechanical equipment including dish antennae, outdoor storage, and waste disposal areas shall be screened from public view.
(12)
Lighting fixtures should complement the architectural design of the planned unit development.
(13)
The placement of wall signs on individual buildings should complement the architectural design of the planned unit development. Wall signs in multitenanted buildings must be placed within the same sign band.
I.
Phasing requirements. All applications for planned unit developments shall include sufficient information to evaluate total build-out of the site. The special permit granting authority may permit a phasing schedule in accordance with an approved master site plan.
(1)
The initial construction phase shall provide sufficient on-site and off-site improvements to adequately serve the constructed portion independent of future phases, encourage completion of the build-out design, and minimize disruptions during future construction phases. Improvements shall include but not limited to driveways, parking, sewer, water, stormwater systems, lighting, and landscaping. The special permit granting authority may permit phased construction of improvements if deemed appropriate.
(2)
The applicant shall provide the City with a performance guarantee to cover the costs of construction of the on-site and off-site improvements, subject to approval from the special permit granting authority, in the form of a performance bond, letter of credit, or cash escrow.
(3)
Any changes in use or amendments to subsequent development phases shall require approval by the special permit granting authority. Modifications or extensions to an approved phasing timetable shall not be considered substantive amendments.
J.
Procedural requirements. All planned unit developments require a special permit. In addition to the site plan submittal requirements in § 200-61 and the special permit requirements in § 200-60 of this chapter, site plans shall include:
(1)
Color renderings of facade elevations of all sides of all proposed new construction and renovations including proposed mature landscaping.
(2)
Color photographs showing the proposed building site and adjacent properties.
(3)
Drawings/cut sheets of all proposed lighting, signs, and pedestrian amenities as they are to be located on the property.
(4)
A landscaping plan that includes all existing and proposed vegetation with elevation views and a description of all plantings (include common names), size (upon planting and upon maturity), spacing, and numbers of plants.
(5)
Description of how the project will impact traffic conditions on streets and intersections likely to be affected by the project including the level of service, traffic flow, turning movements, sight distances, traffic controls, pedestrian movement and public transportation. Provide information on the average daily and peak hour traffic projections and directional distribution of site-generated traffic.