Classification of Districts. Montour Township is hereby divided into districts of different types, each being of such number, shape, kind and area and of such common unity of purpose and adaptability of use deemed most suitable to carry out the objectives of this chapter.

Zoning Map. The boundaries of the zoning districts are delineated on a separate digital orthophoto (aerial photograph) base map, supplied by the Columbia County Geographic Information System Office, which shows approximate tax parcel boundaries. This map, entitled "Montour Township Zoning Map," together with all explanatory matter thereon, is hereby made a part of this chapter. Where a Zoning Map change is proposed or petitioned (also referred to as a rezoning), notice of the public hearing shall be posted conspicuously by the Township at points deemed sufficient by the Township along the tract to notify potentially interested citizens. The affected tract or area shall be posted at least one week prior to the date of the hearing. Notice of the hearing, including the location of the property involved plus the location, date and time of the hearing, shall be mailed by the Township, at least 30 days prior to the hearing, by first class mail, to the addresses to which real estate tax bills are sent for all property located within the area to be rezoned. Within 30 days after enactment, a copy of the amendment shall be forwarded to the Columbia County Planning Commission.

Interpretation of District Boundaries. Where uncertainty exists with respect to the boundaries of a district as indicated on a Zoning Map, the following rules shall apply.

Conservation District (C). In areas where major physiographic features exist, accessibility is difficult or unique natural beauty exists, Conservation Districts are established to conserve the existing character of such areas and utilize the resource capabilities by providing for low intensity residential, agricultural or recreational uses, thus guiding more intensive land development into more appropriate zoning districts. In view of the need for alternative energy sources and the need for a minimum generally prevailing wind speed to make wind generation of electricity feasible, certain locations within Montour Township in Conservation Districts may be approved for individual wind turbines or large-scale commercial wind farms, subject to requirements of this chapter and additional specific safeguards and conditions imposed by the Township.

Agricultural Districts (A). In areas not expected to be served with sewage collection and treatment and not expected to attract substantial development or where agricultural activity remains strong, Agricultural Districts are established to protect and stabilize agriculture as an ongoing economic activity protected by the PA Right To Farm Act; at the same time, recognizing the general decline in agricultural activity, reasonable alternative economic activities are provided. In view of the need for alternative energy sources and the need for a minimum generally prevailing wind speed to make wind generation of electricity feasible, certain locations within Montour Township in Agricultural Districts may be approved for large-scale commercial wind farms, subject to requirements of this chapter and additional specific safeguards and conditions imposed by the Township. An individual wind turbine may be approved in Agricultural Districts as part of an agricultural homestead or enterprise.

Suburban Residential Districts (SR). In areas where residential development patterns are established with reasonable access to the collector street network, Suburban Residential Districts are established. It shall be the purpose of these districts to promote and encourage a suitable and safe environment for family life by providing only for single-family residences and residential support land uses. Cluster development is encouraged for primarily owner-occupied dwellings.

Village Residential Districts (VR). Building upon an established residential concentration with a reasonable potential for public sewage collection and treatment, the Village Residential District is extended to provide for moderate density residential of varied architectural styles and dwelling types and planned developments of mixed but compatible land uses. It shall be the purpose of such districts to maintain and provide for moderate density providing for higher density residential uses, limited commercial uses serving the immediate areas and appropriate public activities.

Highway Commercial Districts (HC). Highway Commercial Districts are established to accommodate retail or wholesale business activities which either serve a regional market, offer merchandise oriented to the highway uses or function best on individual land parcels and thus are not normally part of an integrated shopping area or center. It shall be the purpose of such districts to provide for the routine shopping needs of the Township and adjacent communities.

Industrial (I). Industrial Districts are established for the manufacturing, compounding, processing, assembly or treatment of materials, articles or merchandise.