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Madison City Zoning Code

SUBCHAPTER 28G:

SPECIAL DISTRICTS

28.091 - SPECIAL DISTRICT USES.

(1)

Table 28G-1 lists all permitted and conditional uses in the Special Districts, except that uses allowed within the Campus Institutional District are listed separately in Sec. 28.096.

(a)

"P" means permitted in the districts where designated.

(b)

"C" means allowed as conditional uses in the districts where designated, in compliance with all applicable standards.

(c)

"P/C" means permitted or conditional, depending on specific requirements in Supplemental Regulations, Sec. 28.151. (Am. by ORD-22-00096, 9-15-22)

(d)

"Y" means there are specific requirements in Sec. 28.151 associated with the use. (Am. by ORD-22-00096, 9-15-22)

(e)

"A" means Agricultural District.

(f)

"UA" means Urban Agriculture District.

(g)

"CN" means Conservancy District.

(h)

"PR" means Parks and Recreation District.

(i)

"AP" means Airport District.

(j)

"MC" means Mission Camp District. (Cr. by ORD-21-00060, 9-13-21)

Table 28G-1.

A
UA
CN
PR
AP
MC
Supplemental
Regulations Sec. 28.151

Agricultural and Resource Uses
Agriculture - Animal husbandry P C C Y
Agriculture - Cultivation P P/C C P Y
Agriculture - Intensive C Y
Animal boarding facility, kennel, animal shelter P Y
Clear cutting C C C C Y
Community garden P P C P
Equestrian center/riding, boarding stable P C
Keeping of honeybees P P P P Y
Market garden P P C C Y
Selective cutting of timber P P P P P Y
Civic and Institutional Uses
Botanic gardens P
Civic auditorium complex C
Cemetery C
Community center C
Community Event P/C P/C P/C P/C P/C Y
Correctional facility Y
Land and water preserves P P Y
Library/museum P Y
Parks and playgrounds P P P P
Public safety or service facilities P C C P
Reuse of public schools, municipal buildings, or places of worship P/C P/C P/C Y
Schools, arts, technical or trade C C C C Y
Schools, public and private C Y
Training facilities, military or public safety P
Zoos P
Residential - Family Living
Single-family detached dwelling P
Residential - Group Living
Housing cooperative P Y
Mission camp P/C Y
Limited Production, Processing and Storage
Artisan workshop C
Recycling collection center, drop-off station C
Public Utility and Public Service Uses
Class 2 Collocations P P P P P
Electric power production and/or heating and cooling plant P/C Y
Electric substations C C C C C Y
Heating and/or cooling plant C C C C C
Gas regulator stations, mixing and gate stations C C C C C Y
Radio Broadcast Service Facility P P P P P
Railroad right-of-way C C C C C
Sewerage system lift stations P C C P P Y
Telecommunications towers, Class I Collocations, and transmission equipment buildings P P P P P
Water pumping stations, water reservoirs P C C C P Y
Transportation Uses
Airport runways, hangars and related facilities P
Airport terminal and related facilities P
Transit stop or station P P P P P
Medical Facilities
Veterinary clinic C Y
Retail Sales and Services
Animal day care P Y
Animal grooming facility P
ATM P P
Bicycle-sharing facility P P P P P P Y
Farmers' market C C P Y
Free-standing vending P/C P/C P/C Y
Garden center C Y
Greenhouse, nursery C C Y
Mobile grocery store P P P P Y
Food and Beverages
Brewpub P Y
Incidental Alcohol Sales C P
Restaurant C P Y
Tavern P
Commercial Recreation, Entertainment and Lodging
Art Center P
Bed and breakfast establishment P Y
Golf course C C Y
Lodge, private club, reception hall C Y
Outdoor recreation C C C C C Y
Stadiums, auditoriums, arenas C
Tourist rooming house P P Y
Automobile Services
Auto rental P Y
Electric Vehicle Charging Facility P P
Parking and Storage Facilities
Parking facility, private C
Parking facility, public P
Parking lot, surface, exceeding maximum parking C C C C C
Accessory Uses and Structures
Accessory building or structure P P/C P P Y
Accessory dwelling unit P Y
Accessory retail alcohol sales P P
Caretaker's dwelling P P C P Y
Catering P P
Coffee shop, tea house C P
Composting P P P P P
Day care home, family P/C Y
Emergency electric generator P C C C P Y
General retail P P
Health/sports club P
Home occupation P/C Y
Hostel P/C
Hotel, motel P/C Y
Keeping of chickens P P P P P Y
On-site agricultural retail, farm stand P P C C Y
Outdoor cooking operation P/C P/C P/C P/C P/C Y
Outdoor eating area associated with food and beverage establishment P/C Y
Outdoor eating area, temporary, associated with food and beverage establishment P/C Y
Outdoor recreation C C C C C Y
Outdoor sales events C C P/C Y
Outdoor storage P P/C P/C P Y
Parking facility, public P P
Portable shelter mission P P P P P Y
Portable storage units P Y
Professional office, general office P
Temporary off-street parking P C C C
Solar energy systems P P P P P Y
Storage of trucks and heavy equipment P P/C P/C P/C P
Wind energy systems C C C C C Y

 

(Am. by ORD-13-00054, 4-24-13; ORD-13-00147, 9-11-13; ORD-13-00178, 10-23-13; ORD-13-00185, 11-5-13; ORD-13-00189, 11-26-13; ORD-14-00015, 1-29-14; ORD-14-00083, 4-16-14; ORD-14-00119, 7-11-14; ORD-15-00079 & ORD-15-00080, 8-12-15; ORD-16-00074, 9-16-15; ORD-16-00092, 11-09-16; Am. by ORD-18-00068, 7-19-18; Am. by ORD-18-00114, 11-9-18; Am. by ORD-18-00118, 12-3-18; Am. by ORD-19-00024, 4-29-19; Am. by ORD-19-00046, 7-2-19; Am. by ORD-19-00047, 7-2-19; Am. by ORD-19-00051, 7-2-19; Am. by ORD-20-00059, 6-29-20; Am. by ORD-21-00001, 1-19-21; Am. by ORD-21-00012, 2-10-21; Am. by ORD-21-00060, 9-13-21; Am. by ORD-21-00062, 9-13-21; Am. by ORD-21-00087, 12-15-21; Am. by ORD-22-00016, 4-7-22; Am. by ORD-22-00096, 9-15-22; Am. by ORD-23-00008, 1-12-23; Am. by ORD-24-00001, 1-17-24; Am. by ORD-24-00018, 3-20-24; Am. by ORD-25-00023, 4-24-25; Am. by ORD-25-00042, 6-27-25)

28.092 - AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

Rural agricultural areas designated as such in the Comprehensive Plan are located beyond the current extent of planned City development. These areas are outside the Central Urban Service Area and without current access to municipal sanitary sewer and water service. They are characterized by active farming operations and associated fields, meadows, woodlots and other natural features. Agriculture and other rural land uses also continue to predominate within many areas planned, but not yet developed, for urban uses. These may include relatively large areas that are recommended in adopted City plans to continue in long-term agriculture uses, while urban areas grow around them.

The purpose of this district is to support the continuance of agriculture and rural character within outlying agricultural areas. In addition, the A district is intended to support local food production and community health by encouraging community and market gardens and other small-scale agricultural operations within city limits.

(2)

Permitted and Conditional Uses.

See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowed uses within the Agricultural District.

(3)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Agricultural District
Agricultural usesAll other uses
Lot area 5 acres 10 acres
Lot width 300 300
Front yard setback 30 30
Side yard setback 80 80
Rear yard setback 100 100
Maximum height none 2 stories/35
Maximum lot coverage n/a 5%

 

28.093 - URBAN AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The purpose of this district is to ensure that urban garden and farm areas are appropriately located and protected to meet needs for local food production, and to enhance community health, community education, garden-related job training, natural resource protection, preservation of green space, and community enjoyment. Because urban agriculture will typically exist in close proximity to residential and other uses, concern will be given to ensuring compatibility between uses.

(2)

Permitted and Conditional Uses.

See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowed uses within the Urban Agricultural District.

(3)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Urban Agricultural District
Lot area sq. ft. 15,000
See (a) below
Lot width 50
Front yard setback (structures) 15 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Side yard setback (structures) 6 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Rear yard setback (structures) 20 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Maximum height 25
Maximum lot coverage (buildings and paved areas) 15% (excluding greenhouses and hoophouses)

 

(a)

Lot area of less than 15,000 square feet may be allowed as a conditional use

28.094 - CONSERVANCY DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The Conservancy District is established to recognize and protect the natural functions of certain natural and non-intensive recreational areas, including large City and County parks, the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, and stormwater management areas. Development within the district is limited in order to protect natural drainageways and water retention areas, natural habitat for plant and animal life, steep slopes, woodlands, and other resources beneficial to the community.

(2)

Permitted and Conditional Uses.

See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowed uses within the Conservancy District.

(3)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Conservancy District
Lot area 5 acres
Lot width 300
Front yard setback 30
Side yard setback 80
Rear yard setback 100
Maximum height 2 stories/35
Maximum lot coverage 5%

 

28.095 - PARKS AND RECREATION DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement and Purpose.

The Parks and Recreation District is established to accommodate active outdoor and indoor recreation uses and facilities such as golf course, stadiums, swimming pools, community centers, large recreation structures, recreational complexes, and similar uses where lands are developed to accommodate said recreational uses, and may also include areas for natural preservation and passive enjoyment of natural features.

(2)

Permitted and Conditional Uses.

See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowed uses within the Parks and Recreation District.

(3)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Parks and Recreation District
Lot area 5 acres
Lot width 300
Front yard setback 30
Side yard setback 30
Rear yard setback 30
Maximum height 2 stories/35
See (a) below

 

(Am. by ORD-15-00050, 5-13-15)

(a)

Maximum height may be exceeded with conditional use approval.

28.096 - AIRPORT DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The purpose of the Airport District is to recognize the Dane County Regional Airport as a major transportation hub with a unique set of land use characteristics, and to accommodate the Airport's transportation and management needs while mitigating any impacts on surrounding land uses.

(2)

Permitted and Conditional Uses.

See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowed uses within the Airport District.

(3)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Airport District
Lot area 20,000
Lot width 65
Front yard setback 20
Side yard setback 15 or 20% building height (the greater)
Rear yard setback 30
Maximum lot coverage 75%
Minimum height 22, measured to building cornice
Maximum height 5 stories/68
See (a) below

 

(a)

The regulations contained in the Dane County Code of Ordinances regulating the height and bulk of obstructions to aerial navigation also apply within the Airport District and other areas surrounding the airport. Dane County, not the City of Madison, administers these regulations.

28.097 - CAMPUS-INSTITUTIONAL DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The CI District is established to recognize the City's major educational and medical institutions as important activity centers and traffic generators, accommodate the growth and development needs of these institutions, and coordinate the master plans of these institutions with the City's plans, policies and zoning standards. The district is also intended to:

(a)

Permit appropriate institutional growth within boundaries while minimizing the adverse impacts associated with development and geographic expansion.

(b)

Balance the ability of major institutions to change and the public benefits derived from change with the need to protect the livability and vitality of adjacent neighborhoods.

(c)

Encourage the preparation of Campus Master Plans that enable adjacent neighborhoods and the broader community to understand the levels of development being proposed, their likely impacts, and appropriate mitigation measures.

(2)

Master Plan Requirement.

(a)

Any Campus-Institutional District created after the effective date of this ordinance shall submit a Campus Master Plan, which shall be approved as part of the map amendment.

(b)

Approved Campus Master Plans shall be effective for ten (10) years, and, during that period, may be altered pursuant to sub. (8) below.

(c)

In a Campus-Institutional District without a Campus Master Plan, the construction of a new building or additions to existing buildings that exceed four thousand (4,000) square feet in floor area on a zoning lot within any five (5) year period shall require conditional use approval. (Am. by ORD-15-00033, 4-8-15)

(d)

In a Campus-Institutional District without a Campus Master Plan, the establishment, improvement, or modification of any primary or secondary use occurring outside of an enclosed building shall require conditional use approval. However, the Zoning Administrator may issue permits to repair or replace any existing facility related to a primary or secondary use provided that the proposed facility is of a similar bulk condition and at a similar location on the zoning lot as the existing facility.

(e)

In the absence of a Master Plan, dimensional requirements are in sub. (4) below.

(f)

Any PD converting to CI carries the land use approval and restrictions from the PD into the CI, and those rules and agreements are in full effect until a Campus Master Plan is adopted.

(Am. by ORD-19-00069, 10-10-19)

(3)

Uses Within CI Districts. Uses within CI districts are defined as follows as either primary or secondary. All secondary uses must be utilized predominantly in a manner that is directly related and complementary to the institution's primary uses.

(a)

Primary Uses.

1.

Educational uses associated with colleges, universities, and secondary and primary schools, including classroom buildings, libraries, and offices.

2.

Medical facilities, including hospitals, clinics, laboratories and related facilities.

3.

Dormitories, student and/or faculty housing.

4.

Community Center.

5.

Places of Worship.

(b)

Secondary Uses.

1.

Day care facilities.

2.

Eating places within mixed-use buildings such as dormitories or student unions.

3.

Fraternities and sororities.

4.

General retail, financial and personal service uses within mixed-use buildings such as student unions.

5.

Indoor and outdoor sports and recreational facilities.

6.

Lodging facilities.

7.

Museums and art galleries.

8.

Parking, structured and surface.

9.

Performing arts centers.

10.

Utilities and transportation facilities related to the primary use.

11.

Veterinary clinics.

12.

Agricultural uses.

13.

Public utility and service uses.

14.

Other uses related to the institution's primary mission.

15.

Correctional Facility.

16.

Stadiums, auditoriums, and arenas, open or enclosed.

(Am. by ORD-19-00069, 10-10-19)

(4)

Dimensional Requirements.

In CI districts, with an approved Master Plan, dimensional requirements will be determined by the Master Plan. In CI Districts with no Master Plan, the dimensional requirements follow. Requirements represent minimums unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Campus-Institutional District
Lot area sq. ft. 6,000
Lot width 50
Front yard setback 0' or 5'
0' if the distance between the curb and property line is equal to or greater than 15'. A no-build easement may be used to achieve the 15' distance.

5' if the distance between the curb and property line is less than 15'.
Side yard setback 0' or 5'
0' if the distance between the curb and property line is equal to or greater than 15' or shown on the Setback Exceptions Map. A no-build easement may be used to achieve the 15' distance.

5' if the distance between the curb and property line is less than 15'.
See (a) below and Downtown Setback Map and Setback Exceptions Map.
Rear yard setback 0
Maximum lot coverage 85%
Maximum height 3 stories/68
See Sub. (a) below

 

(Am. by ORD-14-00002, 1-14-14; Am. by ORD-21-00028, 3-30-21, Eff. 4-9-21; Am. by ORD-25-00011, 3-8-25)

(a)

Heights exceeding the maximum may be allowed with conditional use approval. (Cr. by ORD-14-00002, 1-14-14)

(5)

Contents of Master Plan.

The Master Plan shall include the following elements and information:

(a)

Background/History. A summary of previous planning efforts by the institution in conjunction with the City and/or abutting neighborhoods or other interest groups, a description of the campus master planning process and participants, and any other relevant background material.

(b)

Mission/Guiding Principles. A statement that defines the organizational mission and objectives of the institution and describes the role of the master plan within the context of the mission.

(c)

Facilities Plan. Includes a description of existing conditions on the campus and the proposed conditions under the Master Plan, including:

1.

Existing Conditions.

a.

Land uses and buildings.

b.

Building form (building type, height, bulk, etc.).

c.

Landmarks, historic sites and districts.

d.

Natural features and significant open-space areas.

2.

Proposed Conditions.

a.

Future needs/capital improvements.

b.

Phasing of proposed improvements.

c.

Future land uses and buildings.

d.

Building Form (building type, height, bulk, etc.).

e.

Landscape treatment.

f.

Open-space areas and other open-space uses.

g.

Relationship to transportation/access plan (parking, etc.). (Am. by ORD-24-00001, 1-17-24)

(6)

Standards for Master Plan Approval.

The Common Council will approve or reject the Master Plan following a recommendation by the Plan Commission. Approval of the Master Plan will be based on the Plan's treatment of the topics listed above and the degree to which it meets the intent of this district, as well as the following standards:

(a)

The Plan shall serve the public interest as well as the interest of the institution developing the plan.

(b)

The Plan shall be consistent with the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and adopted neighborhood, corridor or special area plans adjacent to campus boundaries.

(7)

Final Building, Structured Parking, and Surface Parking Design Review.

(a)

All Campus Master Plans shall identify building location and maximum height. All buildings properly identified on a Campus Master Plan must be reviewed and approved by an architectural review committee prior to construction. The committee shall be established by the institution and shall meet the following standards:

1.

The building design review standards and guidelines, review procedures, categories of membership, and the language of any deed or plat restriction must be approved by the Urban Design Commission.

2.

Membership on the committee, including representation of planning staff and registered neighborhoods, and committee procedures must be approved by the Plan Commission. Committee meetings shall be public.

3.

Until an architectural review committee is established and approved by the Plan Commission, all building and site plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Urban Design Commission, with an appeal process to the Plan Commission as established in Section 33.24.

(b)

In addition to undergoing the design review process in sub. (7)(a) above, and in order to minimize impact on City right-of-ways, all structured or surfaced parking facilities properly identified in a Campus Master Plan must be reviewed by the Transportation Commission and Board of Public Works and approved by the Common Council prior to construction. In approving a structured or surface parking facility under this section, the Common Council may require a Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) prepared by the applicant, a permanent right-of-way dedication to the city, and/or city right-of-way improvements, if deemed necessary by a Traffic Impact Analysis or an analysis prepared by the Director of Traffic Engineering. Any such analysis shall consider the cumulative effect of other structured and surface parking facilities in the area when determining whether a permanent right-of-way dedication or right-of-way improvement is necessary. (Am. by ORD-19-00081, 11-13-19; Am. by ORD-23-00098, 10-26-23)

(c)

If there is no approved Master Plan, building design review will occur as part of the conditional use approval.

(Am. by ORD-17-00073, 7-26-17)

(8)

Review by University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus Area Committees Prior to Final Building Design Review.

Prior to presenting final building design to the architectural review committee under Sub. (7) above, the University of Wisconsin-Madison shall present the final building design plans to a meeting of the Joint West and Joint Southeast area review committees after giving notice of the joint meeting by first class mail to the owners of record, as listed in the office of the City assessor, and occupants of multi-tenant buildings, of property in whole or in part situated within two hundred (200) feet of the boundaries of the properties affected.

(Cr. by ORD-17-00084, 9-13-17)

(9)

Appeal of Decision by Architectural Review Committee.

The applicant or alder for the affected district may appeal any decision of the architectural review committee under Sub. (7) above to the Plan Commission. Appeal may be taken by filing a Notice of Appeal with the Secretary of the Plan Commission within 10 days of a final decision by the architectural review committee. The appeal should state the reasons for appeal and relief sought by the applicant or alder. Once an appeal is received, the Plan Commission shall set a public hearing as soon as practicable. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the Plan Commission may affirm, reverse, or modify the decision of the architectural review committee.

(Cr. by ORD-17-00084, 9-13-17)

(10)

Changes to Master Plan.

No alteration of an approved Campus Master Plan, including changes to the proposed use of identified open space areas and other open space uses, shall be permitted unless approved by the Plan Commission, provided however, the Zoning Administrator may, following consideration by the alderperson of the district, issue permits for minor alterations that are approved by the Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development and are consistent with the concept approved by the Common Council. If the change or addition constitutes a substantial alteration of the original plan, the procedure in Sec. 28.097(6) is required.

(Renum. by ORD-17-00084, 9-13-17)

28.098 - PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The Planned Development (PD) District is established to provide a voluntary regulatory framework as a means to facilitate the unique development of land in an integrated and innovative fashion, to allow for flexibility in site design, and to encourage development that is sensitive to environmental, cultural, and economic considerations, and that features high-quality architecture and building materials. In addition, the Planned Development District is intended to achieve one or more of the following objectives:

(a)

Promotion of green building technologies, low-impact development techniques for stormwater management, and other innovative measures that encourage sustainable development.

(b)

Promotion of integrated land uses allowing for a mixture of residential, commercial, and public facilities along corridors and in transitional areas, with enhanced pedestrian, bicycle and transit connections and amenities.

(c)

Preservation and enhancement of important environmental features through careful and sensitive placement of buildings and facilities.

(d)

Preservation of historic buildings, structures, or landscape features through adaptive reuse of public or private preservation of land.

(e)

Provision of more adequate, usable, and suitably located open space, recreational amenities, and other public facilities than would otherwise be provided under conventional land development techniques.

(f)

Facilitation of high-quality development that is consistent with the goals, objectives, policies, and recommendations of the Comprehensive Plan and adopted neighborhood, corridor or special area plans.

Because substantial flexibility is permitted in the base zoning districts, the PD option should rarely be used. It is intended that applicants use the PD option only for situations where none of the base zoning districts address the type of development or site planning proposed. Examples include redevelopment, large-scale master planned developments, projects that create exceptional employment or economic development opportunities, or developments that include a variety of residential, commercial, and employment uses in a functionally integrated mixed-use setting.

Approval of a Planned Development District requires a zoning map amendment, which shall result in the creation of a new site-specific zoning district, with specific requirements that are unique to that planned development. In the Planned Development District, there shall be no predetermined requirements for lot area, lot width, height, floor area ratio, yards, signage, or off-street parking and loading, but such requirements may be made a part of a planned development during its approval and recorded against the PD-zoned property as regulations to be enforced as a part of this ordinance. (Am. by ORD-25-00011, 3-8-25)

(2)

Standards for Approval of Zoning Map Amendment.

The standards for approval of a zoning map amendment to the PD District, or any major alteration to an approved General Development Plan, are as follows:

(a)

The applicant shall demonstrate that no other base zoning district can be used to achieve a substantially similar pattern of development. Planned developments shall not be allowed simply for the purpose of increasing overall density or allowing development that otherwise could not be approved unless the development also meets one or more of the objectives of (1) above. Conditions under which planned development may be appropriate include:

1.

Site conditions such as steep topography or other unusual physical features; or

2.

Redevelopment of an existing area or use of an infill site that could not be reasonably developed under base zoning district requirements.

(b)

The PD District plan shall facilitate the development or redevelopment goals of the Comprehensive Plan and of adopted neighborhood, corridor or special area plans.

(c)

The PD District plan shall not adversely affect the economic health of the City or the area of the City where the development is proposed. The City shall be able to provide municipal services to the property where the planned development is proposed without a significant increase of the cost of providing those services or economic impact on municipal utilities serving that area.

(d)

The PD District plan shall not create traffic or parking demands disproportionate to the facilities and improvements designed to meet those demands. (Am. by ORD-24-00001, 1-17-24)

(e)

The PD District plan shall coordinate architectural styles and building forms to achieve greater compatibility with surrounding land uses and create an environment of sustained aesthetic desirability compatible with the existing or intended character of the area and the statement of purpose of the PD District.

(f)

The PD District plan shall include open space suitable to the type and character of development proposed, including for projects with residential components, a mix of structured and natural spaces for use by residents and visitors. Areas for stormwater management, parking, or in the public right of way shall not be used to satisfy this requirement.

(g)

The PD district shall include suitable assurances that each phase could be completed in a manner that would not result in an adverse effect upon the community as a result of termination at that point.

(h)

When applying the above standards to an application for height in excess of that allowed in Section 28.071(2)(a) Downtown Height Map, except as provided for in Section 28.071(2)(a) and Section 28.071(2)(b), the Plan Commission shall consider the recommendations in adopted plans and no application for excess height shall be granted by the Plan Commission unless it finds that all of the following conditions are present:

1.

The excess height is compatible with the existing or planned (if the recommendations in the Downtown Plan call for changes) character of the surrounding area, including but not limited to the scale, mass, rhythm, and setbacks of buildings and relationships to street frontages and public spaces.

2.

The excess height allows for a demonstrated higher quality building than could be achieved without the additional stories.

3.

The scale, massing and design of new buildings complement and positively contribute to the setting of any landmark buildings within or adjacent to the project and create a pleasing visual relationship with them.

4.

For projects proposed in priority viewsheds and other views and vistas identified on the Views and Vistas Map in the City of Madison Downtown Plan, there are no negative impacts on the viewshed as demonstrated by viewshed studies prepared by the applicant.

(Am. by ORD-25-00058, 9-11-25)

(i)

When applying the above standards to an application to reduce or eliminate stepbacks required by Section 28.071(2)(c) Downtown Stepback Map, the Plan Commission shall consider the recommendations in adopted plans, including the downtown plan. No application to reduce or eliminate stepbacks may be granted unless it finds that all of the following conditions are present:

1.

The lot is a corner parcel.

2.

The lot is not part of a larger assemblage of properties.

3.

The entire lot is vacant or improved with only a surface parking lot.

4.

No principal buildings on the lot have been demolished or removed since the effective date of this ordinance.

(Cr. by ORD-15-00084, 8-12-15)

(3)

Relationship to Other Applicable Regulations.

(a)

In General. A Planned Development shall comply with all standards, procedures, and regulations of this ordinance that are applicable to the individual uses within the development, including the General Regulations of Subchapter 28I and the Supplemental Regulations, Sec. 28.151, of Subchapter 28J. Where the applicant proposes a development that does not comply with one or more of the regulations in those subchapters, they shall specifically request that the Plan Commission consider the application of those regulations in making its recommendations on the development, including specific language in the zoning text or depiction on the plans. (Am. by ORD-22-00096, 9-15-22)

(b)

Subdivision Requirement. All land within a Planned Development District shall be platted into one or more lots in compliance with the requirements of the subdivision and platting regulations. The development plan for the Planned Development shall include the necessary information to serve as a preliminary plat.

(4)

General Requirements.

The Planned Development District shall identify the following information:

(a)

All proposed land uses; these shall become permitted or conditional uses upon the approval of the Planned Development by the Common Council.

(b)

Placement of buildings and structures.

(c)

Density, height, floor area, and dimensional requirements for lots or building sites.

(d)

Street layout, including connections to external streets, paths and trails. The Planned Development should maintain the existing street grid where present and restore the street grid where it has been disrupted. In newly developing areas, streets shall be designed to maximize connectivity in each cardinal direction, except where environmental or physical constraints make this infeasible.

(5)

Procedures.

The procedure for rezoning to a planned development district shall be as required for any other zoning map amendment in this chapter, with the additional requirements specified below.

(a)

Pre-Submittal Requirements. These requirements are intended to provide opportunities for the applicant to explore issues associated with the proposal prior to the expenditure of significant resources in the development of any design plans. This phase shall include the following:

1.

Pre-Design Conference. The applicant shall meet with Planning Division and Zoning staff to review and discuss aspects of the proposal including, but not limited to: the site and its context, potential impacts of the project, and initial design direction.

2.

Concept Presentation. The concept shall be submitted for review to the Urban Design Commission at an informational meeting. No formal action will be taken by the Commission. Submittals shall include contextual information such as topography, photos of the site and surrounding properties, and a discussion of the initial design direction. The Commission will review the concept in reference to the objectives listed in Subsection 28.098(1) and the other requirements of this Subchapter. The Commission may request that additional materials be submitted to assist in communicating the nature of the site and its context. If the proposed planned development relates to constructing, altering or demolishing a landmark, proposes development on a landmark site, or proposes development in a historic district, the concept shall be submitted for review to the Landmarks Commission at an informational meeting before submission to the Urban Design Commission for its informational meeting under this subsection. (Am. by ORD-16-00053, 5-25-16)

(b)

General Development Plan Requirements. The applicants shall file the following with the Plan Commission:

1.

A letter of intent describing the general character of the intended development.

2.

Proposed zoning text, including a description of the proposed land uses, their dimensions, bulk, height, scale and massing, and other relevant standards.

3.

An accurate map of the project area including its relationship to surrounding properties and existing topography and key features, including existing buildings and structures.

4.

A plan of the proposed project showing sufficient detail to make possible the evaluation of the standards for approval as set forth in Subsection 2. The General Development Plan shall include a plan showing building placement, the general location of parking facilities to serve the development, and the general bulk, mass and orientation of the buildings within the PD District.

5.

Proposed circulation systems (pedestrian, bicycle, auto, transit) by type and how they relate to the existing network outside this site.

6.

Analysis of potential economic impacts to the community, including the cost of municipal services and any additional infrastructure.

7.

When requested, a general outline of intended organizational structure related to property owner's association, deed restrictions and private provision of common services.

8.

A schedule or phasing plan indicating the approximate dates when construction of the Planned Development can be expected to begin and be completed.

9.

When a major alteration to a General Development Plan is submitted for approval that does not encompass the entire Planned Development District, the applicant shall submit information for consideration that describes the impact the proposed alteration will have on the implementation of the rest of the approved district.

(c)

Decision on General Development Plan. The decision process for approval of a General Development Plan, including any major alteration to an approved General Development Plan, shall be as specified in Section 28.182, including a recommendation by the Plan Commission and action by the Common Council, with the following additional requirements:

1.

The Urban Design Commission shall review the General Development Plan prior to the Plan Commission, and shall make a recommendation to the Plan Commission with specific findings on the design objectives listed in Subsections 28.098(1) and (2) and the other requirements of this Subchapter.

2.

Approval of the rezoning and related General Development Plan, .any major alteration to an approved General Development Plan, shall establish the basic right of use for the area and shall be recorded against the PD-zoned property. However, the plan shall be conditioned upon approval of a Specific Implementation Plan, and shall not allow any of the uses as proposed until a Specific Implementation Plan is submitted and approved for all or a portion of the General Development Plan.

3.

Approval of the General Development Plan shall establish interim zoning authority for continuation and maintenance of existing uses, buildings and structures on the property until the specific implementation plan is approved.

4.

If the approved General Development Plan is not recorded as approved within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council, the approval shall be null and void and a new petition and approval process shall be required to obtain General Development Plan approval. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

5.

If the General Development Plan and Specific Implementation Plan are approved at the same time and not recorded as approved within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council, the approval shall be null and void and a new petition and approval process shall be required to obtain approvals for each plan. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

6.

A General Development Plan for a phased development shall be constructed according to the phasing plan recorded with the approved plan. As part of its review of any subsequent Specific Implementation Plans, the Plan Commission shall consider adherence to the approved phasing plan for the overall development.

7.

Any Planned Development not constructed in accordance to its approved phasing plan, and any phases not constructed within ten (10) years of the Common Council approval of the General Development Plan, shall require approval of a new General Development Plan by the Common Council following a recommendation by the Plan Commission. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

(d)

Specific Implementation Plan Requirements. The following information shall be submitted to the Plan Commission, unless specific documents are waived by the Secretary of the Commission:

1.

An accurate map of the area covered by the Specific Implementation Plan including the relationship to the overall General Development Plan if developed in phases.

2.

The pattern of public and private roads, driveways, walkways and parking facilities; traffic projections and mitigation measures.

3.

Detailed lot layout and subdivision plat where required.

4.

The specific design and complete architectural character of the building or buildings included on the Specific Implementation Plan, other than single-family residences. In order to satisfy this requirement, detailed floor plans, exterior elevations and building materials are required.

5.

The utilities serving the project, including sanitary sewer and water mains.

6.

Grading plan and storm drainage system.

7.

The location and treatment of open space areas and recreational or other special amenities.

8.

The location and description of any areas to be dedicated to the public.

9.

Landscape plan and plant list.

10.

Proof of financing capability.

11.

A construction schedule indicating the approximate dates when construction of the project can be expected to begin and be completed.

12.

A specific zoning text for the portion of the PD District to be developed under the Specific Implementation Plan, including a description of the proposed land uses, their dimensions, bulk, height, scale and massing, and other relevant standards, which shall be consistent with the zoning text approved with the General Development Plan.

13.

Agreements, bylaws, provisions or covenants which govern the organizational structure, use, maintenance and continued protection of the development and any of its common services, common open areas or other facilities.

(e)

Decision on Specific Implementation Plan. The decision process, including recommendation by the Plan Commission and action by the Common Council, shall be as specified in Section 28.182 with the following additional requirements:

1.

A Specific Implementation Plan containing all of the information required in sub. (d) may be reviewed concurrent with a rezoning to PD and related approval of a General Development Plan or a major alteration to an approved General Development Plan.

2.

The Urban Design Commission shall review the Specific Implementation Plan prior to the Plan Commission, and shall make a recommendation to the Plan Commission with specific findings on the design objectives listed in Subsections 28.098(1) and (2) and the other requirements of this Subchapter.

3.

If the Specific Implementation Plan is approved, the building, site and operational plans for the development, as approved, as well as all other commitments and contractual agreements with the City, shall be recorded by the Zoning Administrator within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council in the Dane County Register of Deeds Office. If the Specific Implementation Plan is approved concurrent with the approval of a General Development Plan, the plans shall be recorded within five (5) years of the Common Council approval. This shall be accomplished prior to the issuance of any building permit. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

4.

If the Specific Implementation Plan is not recorded as approved within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council, the approval shall be null and void, and a new petition and approval process shall be required to obtain Specific Implementation Plan approval. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

(f)

Recording of Approved Plans and Zoning Ordinance Amendments.

1.

Within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council, of a zoning ordinance amendment designating a tract of land as a Planned Development District, the owner of the development shall provide the Zoning Administrator a facsimile copy of the approved General Development and/or Specific Implementation Plan together with a certified copy of the related zoning ordinance amendment and any other related actions taken by the Common Council, including conditions of approval. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

2.

Upon receipt of complete plans, documents and fees, the Zoning Administrator shall record them with the Dane County Register of Deeds office. The cost for preparing a facsimile copy of the plan in recordable form and the recording fee, as determined by the Dane County Register of Deeds, shall be paid by the owners of the lands included in the Planned Development District.

3.

If either the General Development Plan or Specific Implementation Plan is not recorded as approved within five (5) years of the date of approval by the Common Council, the approval shall be null and void, and a new petition and approval process shall be required, with the exception below. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

(g)

Construction Required. Within five (5) years of Common Council approval of the General Development Plan, the basic right of use for the areas, when in conformity with the approved Specific Implementation Plan, shall lapse and be null and void unless a building permit is issued for the project. In the case of any major alteration approved by the Common Council pursuant to Subsection 28.098(6)(c), the five (5) year period shall apply to the date of approval of the alteration for the purposes of this section. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

(6)

Alterations to a Planned Development District. Requests to alter a Planned Development District shall be made to the Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development. Upon receipt of the request, the Director shall determine if the request constitutes a major or minor alteration to the Planned Development District. Only major alterations approved by the Common Council shall establish a new approval date. The Director may refer any request for alteration to the Urban Design Commission for an advisory recommendation. Alterations shall only be approved as specified below. (Am. by ORD-23-00005, 1-12-23)

(a)

Minor alterations may be approved the Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development or designee following consideration by the alderperson of the district if the requested alterations are consistent with the concept approved by the Common Council. If the alderperson of the district and the Director of Planning and Community and Economic Development do not agree that a request for minor alteration should be approved, then the request for minor alteration shall be decided by the Plan Commission after payment of the applicable fee in Section 28.206, MGO.

1.

When the recorded Planned Development zoning text requires a development or alteration also be approved by a non-City design, architectural, or similar review body, and the specified body has been dissolved, is inactive, or declines to make a recommendation, the Director may act on the Planned Development alteration request. The applicant shall provide documentation on efforts to reach the non-City review body. For the purposes of this section, the non-City review body will be considered inactive if the applicant has not received a response or had their non-City review process initiated within thirty (30) days of that contact. (Cr. by ORD-25-00059, 9-11-25)

(b)

Major alterations may be approved by the City Plan Commission if the requested alterations are consistent with the concept approved by the Common Council.

(c)

Major alterations that represent a substantial departure from the concept approved by the Common Council may be approved only after all of the procedures in Sec. 28.098(5) have been satisfied.

(d)

Telecommunications towers, Class 1 Collocations, Class 2 Collocations and Radio Broadcast Service Facilities shall be considered minor alterations under this section. Criteria for review are provided in Sections 28.143 and 28.148. See Wis. Stat §§ 66.0404(3)(a)1 and (4)(gm) and 66.0406 (2013). A conditional use alteration is not required for the installation of Solar Energy Systems. See Section 28.151 and Wis. Stat. §§ 62.23(7)(c) and 66.0401 (2018). (Am. by ORD-19-00063, 9-16-19)

(Am. by ORD-15-00083, 8-12-15)

(e)

Requests to modify a sign package approved under Sec. 31.13(4), MGO, are not alterations subject to this section. (Cr. by ORD-15-00117, 10-28-15)

[EDITOR'S NOTE: Sub. (6) revised to reflect both ORD-15-00083 and ORD-15-00117.]

(Sec. 28.098 Am. by ORD-15-00034, 4-8-15)

28.099 - PLANNED MOBILE HOME PARK DISTRICT.

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The Planned Mobile Home Park district is established to provide a regulatory framework for improved environmental design and greater freedom, imagination and flexibility in the establishment and development of mobile home parks, while insuring substantial compliance with the basic intent of the zoning code and the comprehensive plan. This district is further intended to encourage compact and efficient development with relation to public services and to encourage and facilitate the preservation of open spaces.

(2)

General Requirements.

A Planned Mobile Home Park District is a specific type of Planned Development District and shall follow the review and approval process specified for the PD District. The general requirements of the PD District for street layout and open space shall be met in any Planned Mobile Home Parks established after the effective date of this zoning code.

(3)

Permitted Uses.

(a)

Planned Mobile Home Park.

(b)

Typical accessory uses such as community buildings and recreational facilities.

(c)

Home occupation.

(d)

Adult family home.

(4)

Conditional Uses.

(a)

Community living arrangement, up to 8 residents.

(5)

Density and Area Requirements.

A Planned Mobile Home Park shall meet the following requirements:

Planned Mobile Home Park District
Lot Area 30 acres
Dwelling Units per Acre 6
Average area per mobile home park site (sq. ft.) 4,000
If approved and licensed prior to July 1, 1970 or established and licensed prior to July 8, 1966:
Lot Area No minimum
Dwelling Units per Acre 8
Average area per mobile home park site (sq. ft.) 3,500

 

28.100 - NONMETALLIC MINERAL EXTRACTION DISTRICT (ME).

(1)

Statement of Purpose.

The Common Council recognizes that nonmetallic mines have operated within the City of Madison and in bordering communities for decades and have served as a source of materials for local road and other construction projects. These nonmetallic mines also often recycle aggregate and construction materials that can be reused in local road and other construction projects, thereby increasing the reuse of materials and reducing usage of local landfills. As the City continues to grow, more nonmetallic mines will come within its jurisdiction. The Common Council also recognizes that nonmetallic mines present potential health, safety and welfare concerns for the City's residents, transients and natural environment. The purpose of this district is to therefore set forth rules and procedures related to the construction, installation, alteration, design, operation and use of all nonmetallic mines that will allow mining operations within the City while protecting the health, safety and welfare of residents and transients, and further the appropriate use and conservation of land and water resources.

(2)

Permitted Use.

Except for blasting, nonmetallic mining shall be a permitted use in a nonmetallic mineral extraction district.

(3)

Conditional Uses.

(a)

Blasting in a nonmetallic mineral extraction district.

(4)

Dimensional Requirements, Permitted and Conditional Uses.

Requirements represent minimums applicable to buildings and structures unless otherwise noted. Dimensions are in feet unless otherwise noted.

Nonmetallic Mining District
Nonmetallic mining uses
Lot area 5 acres
Lot width 300
Front yard setback 30
Side yard setback 80
Rear yard setback 100
Maximum height none
Maximum lot coverage n/a

 

(Section 28.100 Cr. by ORD-17-00014, 2-20-17)

28.100.1 - MISSION CAMP DISTRICT (MC).

(1)

Statement of Purpose. The Common Council finds that a core component of the public health, safety, and welfare is ensuring that its residents have access to a legal place to sleep. The Mission Camp District establishes a regulatory framework for the establishment of campgrounds within the City, thereby allowing for greater freedom and flexibility in providing legal places for residents to sleep.

(2)

General Requirements. Mission Camp District is a specific type of zoning classification established pursuant to the procedures contained in MGO Sec. 28.182 for a map amendment where the principal use of the property is a Mission Camp.

(3)

Permitted and Conditional Uses. See Table 28G-1 for a complete list of allowable uses in the Mission Camp District.

(4)

Density and Area Requirements. A Mission District shall meet the following requirements:

Mission Camp District
Lot area sq. ft. 15,000
Lot width 50
Front yard setback (structures) 15 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Side yard setback (structures) 6 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Rear yard setback (structures) 20 or the setback of the adjacent district, whichever is greater
Maximum height 25
Maximum lot coverage (buildings and paved areas) 85%

 

(Cr. by ORD-21-00060, 9-13-21)