The language set forth in this Code shall be interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction, unless the context clearly requires a different construction:

1. The singular includes the plural and the plural the singular.
2. The present tense includes the past and future and the future includes the present.
3. The word “shall” is mandatory, while the word “may” is permissive.
4. Terms connotating a particular gender shall include each and every gender.
5. Whenever a word or term defined hereinafter appears in the text of this Code its meaning shall be construed as set forth in the definitions thereof, and any word appearing in the parenthesis between a word and its definition shall be construed in the same sense as that word.
6. All measured distances shall be to the nearest integral foot and if a fraction is one-half foot or more the integral foot next above shall be taken.
7. All words and terms not defined herein shall be construed in their generally accepted meanings.
8. The terms Corporate Authority, Mayor and Council, President and Board of Trustees, Town Council and Council all mean the President and Board of Trustees of the Town of Normal.

The following words and terms, whenever they occur in this Code, shall be interpreted as herein defined:

Accent. An area covering no more than 10% of a building's surface area visible to the public.

Accessibility Ramp. An inclined structure that allows increased access to a building or structure.

Accessory Building, Structure or Use. An accessory building or use is one which: is subordinate to and serves a principal building or principal use; and is subordinate in area, extent, and purpose to the principal building or principal use served; and contributes to the comfort, convenience, or necessity of occupants of the principal building or principal use served; and is located on the same lot as the principal building or principal use served, which the single exception of such accessory off-street parking facilities as are permitted to locate elsewhere than on the same lot with the building or use served.

Addition. Construction that increases the size of a building or structure in terms of height, length, depth, width, floor area, or impervious coverage.

Adjacent (Contiguous). Adjacent means have one or more common boundary lines or district lines. Properties are not adjacent to one another if a street or alley separates the properties.

Administrative Adjustment. Authorization granted by the Zoning Code Administrator to allow development that deviates from the specific regulations of this ordinance within a narrowly defined set of circumstances.

Adult Business, Adult Cabaret. A building or portion of a building featuring dancing or other live entertainment if the dancing or other live entertainment involves the exhibiting of specified sexual activities or specified anatomical area, as defined in this Code, for observation by patrons therein. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Hotel/Motel. A hotel or motel or similar business establishment offering public accommodations for any form of consideration which provides patrons with closed-circuit television transmissions, films, computer generated images, motion pictures, cassettes, slides, or other photographic reproductions 50% or more of the number of which are distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on the exhibiting of specified sexual activities or specified anatomical areas, as defined in this Code; and rents, leases, or lets any single room for less than a 6 hour period, or rents, leases, or lets any single room more than twice in a 24 hour period. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Lingerie Modeling Studio. An establishment or business that provides for any form of compensation, monetary or other consideration, the services of live models modeling lingerie to individuals, couples, or small groups and specified anatomical areas of the models are displayed for the purpose of sexual stimulation of the patrons and further provided such modeling takes place in a room smaller than 600 square feet in area. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Media. Magazines, books, videotapes, movies, slides, cd-roms or other devices used to record computer images, or other media that are distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to hard-core material. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Media Store. An establishment that rents and/or sells media, and that media meets any of the following tests: 50% or more of the gross public floor area is devoted to adult media as defined in this Code; 50% or more of the stock-in-trade consists of adult media as defined in this Code.
(Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Modeling Studio. A business which provides for any form of compensation, monetary or other consideration, hire or reward, figure models who, for the purposes of sexual stimulation of patrons, display specified anatomical areas, as defined herein, to be observed, sketched, photographed, painted, sculpted or otherwise depicted by persons paying such consideration. “Adult Modeling Studio” does not include schools maintained pursuant to standards set by the State of Illinois. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Motion Picture Theater. An establishment emphasizing or predominantly showing sexually oriented movies distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or relating to hard-core material, specified anatomical areas and/or specified sexual activities (as defined in this Code) for observation by patrons therein. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Sex Business. Any sexually oriented entertainment business, including any business establishment that regularly features live entertainment distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on the exposure of specified anatomical areas or specified sexual activities, as defined herein, or any business establishment whose primary purpose is the sale or display of any explicit sexual material which, pursuant to state law or other regulatory authority, can be offered only to persons over the age of 18 years. It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of 18 years to be within any building that is the site of an “Adult Sex Business”. “Adult Sex Business” may include an adult cabaret, adult hotel/motel, adult media store, adult modeling studio, adult motion picture theater, adult video arcade, adult lingerie modeling studio, or a sex shop. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Adult Video Arcade. Any place in an adult media store to which the public is permitted or invited wherein coin-operated or slug-operated or electronically, electrically, or mechanically controlled still or motion picture, or video machines, projectors, or other image-producing devices are maintained to show images distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matters depicting, describing, or relating to hard-core material, specified anatomical areas, and/or specified sexual activities (as defined in this code) in video-viewing booths or arcade booths for observation by patrons therein. Adult video arcades are prohibited except when located within an adult media store. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Display Publicly. The act of exposing, placing, posting, exhibiting, or in any fashion displaying in any location, whether public or private, an item in such a manner that it may be readily seen and its content or character distinguished by normal unaided vision viewing it from a street, highway, or public sidewalk, or from property of others, or from any portion of the premises where items and material other than adult media are on display to the public. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Establishment. Any business. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Explicit Sexual Material. Any hard-core material as defined by this Code. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Floor Area, Gross Public. The total area of the building accessible or visible to the public, including showrooms, motion picture theaters, motion picture arcades, service areas, behind-counter areas, storage areas visible from such other areas, rest rooms (whether or not labeled “public”), areas used for cabaret or similar shows (including stage areas), plus aisles, hallways, and entryways serving such areas. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Hard-Core Material. Media characterized by sexual activity that includes one or more of the following: erect male genitals; contact of the mouth of one person with the genitals of another; penetration with a finger or male genital or other object into any genital or anal orifice in another person; open female labia; penetration of a sexually oriented toy or novelty into any orifice in another person; or male ejaculation. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Massage Therapy Studio. An establishment offering massage therapy and/or body work by a massage therapist, licensed by the State of Illinois, or Town of Normal or under the direct supervision of a licensed physician. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Media. Anything printed or written, or any picture, drawing, photograph, motion picture, film, videotape or videotape production, or pictorial representation, or any electrical or electronic reproduction of anything that is or may be used as a means of communication. Media includes but shall not necessarily be limited to books, newspapers, magazines, movies, videos, sound recordings, cd-roms, other magnetic media, and undeveloped pictures. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Media Shop. A general term, identifying a category of business that may include sexually oriented material but that is not subject to the special provisions applicable to adult media shops. In that context, media shop means a retail outlet offering media for sale or rent, for consumption off the premises provided that any outlet meeting the definition of “adult media shop” shall be treated as an adult media store. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Sadomasochistic Practices. Flagellation or torture by or upon a person clothed or naked for the purpose of sexual arousal, or the condition of being fettered, bound, or otherwise physically restrained on the part of one clothed or naked for the purpose of sexual arousal. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Sex Shop. An establishment offering goods for sale or rent and that meets any of the following tests:

• The establishment offers for sale items from any 2 of the following categories: (a) adult media, (b) lingerie in a lingerie modeling studio, or (c) leather goods marketed or presented in a context to suggest their use for sadomasochistic practices; and the combination of such items constitutes more than 50% its stock in trade or occupies more than 50% of its floor area.
• More than 50% of its stock in trade consists of sexually oriented toys or novelties.
• More than 50% of its gross public floor area is devoted to the display of sexually oriented toys or novelties.

(Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Sexually Oriented Entertainment Business. An inclusive term used to describe collectively: adult cabaret; adult modeling studio; adult motion picture theater; video arcade located within an adult media store; adult lingerie modeling studio; and/or sex shop. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Sexually Oriented Toys or Novelties. Instruments, devices, or paraphernalia either designed as representations of human genital organs or female breasts, or designed or marketed primarily for use to stimulate human genital organs. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Specified Anatomical Areas. (1) Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, human pubic region, human buttocks, and human female breast below a point immediately above the top of the areola; and (2) human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state, even if completely and opaquely covered. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Specified Sexual Activities. Human genitals in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal or acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse, sodomy, or fondling or other erotic touching of nude human genitals, pubic region, buttocks, or female breast specified anatomical areas. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Adult Business, Video-Viewing Booth (Arcade Booth). Any both, cubicle, stall, or compartment that is designed, constructed, or used to hold or seat patrons and is used for presenting motion pictures or view publications by any photographic, electronic, magnetic, digital, or other means or media (including, but not limited to film, video or magnetic tape, laser disc, cd-rom, books, magazines, or periodicals) for observation by patrons therein. A video-viewing booth shall not mean a theater, movie house, playhouse, or a room or enclosure or portion thereof that contains more than 600 square feet. (Added 6/17/02 by Ord. No. 4801)

Agriculture. Agriculture means the growing, harvesting, and storing of crops including legumes, hay, grain, fruit and truck or vegetable crops, floriculture, horticulture, viticulture, mushroom growing, orchards and forestry; farm buildings for storing and protecting farm machinery and equipment from the elements; and farm dwellings occupied by farm owners, operators, tenants or seasonal or year-round hired farm workers. This definition of agriculture includes all types of agricultural operations, but excludes therefrom animal husbandry and industrial operations such as a grain elevator, canning or slaughterhouse, wherein agricultural products produced primarily by others are stored or processed.

Aircraft. An aircraft is any contrivance now known or hereafter invented for use in or designed for navigation or flight in the air.

Airplane Hangar, Private. A private airplane hangar is a hanger for the storage of 4 or less single motor aircraft and in which no volatile of flammable oil is handled, stored or kept other than that contained in the fuel storage tank of the aircraft.

Airplane Hanger, Public. A public airplane hangar is a building for the storage, care or repair of private or commercial aircraft not included in the term "private airplane hangar."

Airport. An airport is any area of land or water which is used or intended for use for the landing and taking off of aircraft, and any appurtenant areas which are used or intended for use for airport buildings or other airport facilities or rights-of-way, including all necessary taxiways, aircraft storage and tie-down areas, hangars, and other necessary buildings and open spaces.

Alley. An alley is a public right-of-way which is less than 30 feet wide and affords a secondary means of access to abutting property. Frontage on an alley shall not be construed as satisfying the requirements related to a frontage on a public street.

Alteration. As applied to a building or structure, alteration shall mean any change in size, shape, or character of a building or structure or change in the use thereof. As applied to a building or structure in the S-3 Historic and Cultural District alteration also means any act or process that changes 1 or more of the exterior architectural features of a building or structure, including, but not limited to, the erection, construction, reconstruction, or removal of any building or structure.

Alteration, Structural. A structural alteration is any change, other than incidental repairs, which would prolong the life of the supporting members of a building, such as the addition, removal, or alteration of bearing walls, columns, beams, girders or foundations.

Amusement Center. An amusement center is an establishment, the principal use of which is the operation of mechanical, electronic and/or video type game machines.

Animal Boarding, Kennel, Hospital, or Shelter. An establishment where pet animals are temporarily boarded, treated for illness or injury, and/or temporarily cared for while permanent homes are found for them.

Appearance. The outward aspect visible to the public.

Appurtenances. The visible, functional objects accessory to and part of buildings.

Arbor. A freestanding structure that serves to support climbing plants, often used to define an access point to a garden.

Architectural Accent. An area covering no more than 10% of a building’s surface area visible to the public.

Architectural Character. The composite or aggregate of the characteristics of structure, form, materials, and function of a building, group of buildings, or other architectural composition.

Architectural Concept. The basic aesthetic idea of a building, or group of buildings or structures, including the site and landscape development, which produces the architectural character.

Architectural Element. Part of a building’s fabric, structures and associated services, such as a window.

Architectural Feature. A prominent or significant part or element of a building, structure, or site.

Architectural Style. The characteristic form and detail, as of buildings of a particular historic period.

Assisted Living Facility. A residential facility that provides daily assistance and long-term residence for three or more disabled and/or elderly individuals, but does not provide regular in-patient medical or nursing care. Such facilities provide a combination of housing, supportive services, personalized assistance, and health care designed to respond to the individuals who need help with common daily activities, such as dressing, grooming, and bathing. An Assisted Living Facility does not include Community Residence, Independent Living Facility, or Nursing Home.

Auction House. An Auction House is a building, area or areas within a building used for the public sale of goods, wares, merchandise, or equipment to the highest bidder. This definition excludes therefrom an auction, the principal purpose of which is the sale of livestock or motor vehicles.

Automobile Salvage Yard. An automobile salvage yard means an area of land where 3 or more vehicles and equipment inoperable or unlicensed, or parts thereof in an amount equivalent to 3 motor vehicles, are stored in the open and are not being restored to operation. This land use is not permitted in any zoning district.

Awning. An architectural projection or shelter projecting from and supported entirely by the exterior wall of a building and composed of a covering of rigid or nonrigid materials and/or fabric on a supporting framework that may be either permanent or retractable, including such structures that are internally illuminated by fluorescent or other light sources.

Awning, Back-lit. An awning with a translucent covering material and a source of illumination contained within its framework.

Balcony. A platform that projects from the exterior wall of a building, which is exposed to the open air, has direct access to the interior of a building, and is not supported by columns extending to the ground.

Banquet Hall. An establishment that provides accommodations for private functions, such as weddings, anniversaries, or other similar celebrations. Such use may include facilities for the preparation of food, sale of alcoholic beverages for on-premises consumption, and outdoor reception facilities.

Bargeboard. A highly ornamented or pierced board placed on the incline of the gable.

Basement. The basement is that portion of a building which has at least one-half its height below grade facing the street. A basement is not a story.

Bay Window. A window built to project outward from an exterior wall, often with a flat front and angled sides.

Bed and Breakfast Establishments. An operator-occupied residence of historical significance providing public accommodations for a charge. Only breakfast may be provided to the guests. Bed and Breakfast establishments shall not include motels, hotels, boarding houses, rooming houses or food service establishments. (Added 7/19/99 by Ord. No. 4606)

Berm. A raised form of earth to provide screening or to improve the aesthetic character. A berm must have earthen sides and a crest area of no less than 4 feet in width. The slope of the berm may not exceed 1 foot of vertical rise per 3 feet in horizontal distance. Berms must be at least 3.5 feet high. Organic topsoil must cover the entire berm in a way that facilitates plant growth.

Bicycle Parking, Long-Term. Bicycle parking intended for long-term or overnight storage, typically provided for employees, residents, or others requiring storage of a bicycle for a substantial portion of the day.

Bicycle Parking Space. An area used to park a bicycle that may or may not be located on a right-of-way.

Bioretention. The process of utilizing a shallow vegetated basin to collect and absorb stormwater runoff as part of systems such as bioretention cells, bioretention curb extensions, and bioretention planters.

Block. A block is a tract of land bounded by public streets, or by a combination of streets and public parks, cemeteries, railroad rights-of-way, shorelines of waterways, the corporate limits of the Town of Normal or other lines of demarcation.

Block Face. The entire expanse of buildings from one intersection to another along a given street.

Body Art Establishment. An establishment that provides physical body adornment, alteration or modification that may include, but is not limited to, tattooing, piercing, branding, braiding, implantation, or scarification.

Bracket. Projecting support placed under eaves or other overhangs.

Bright or Brilliant Colors. Highly saturated chroma as defined in the Munsell System of Color Notation.

Building. A building is any structure built for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels, or movable property of any kind, and which is permanently affixed to the ground.

Building Elevation. The entire side of a building, from ground level to the roofline, as viewed perpendicular to the walls on that side of the building.

Building Height. Building height is the measurement of vertical distance from average street grade to the highest point on the roof structure. When a building faces more than one street, the height shall be measured from the average of the grades at the center of each street front.

Building, Principal. A principal building is a building in which the principal use of the lot, on which it is located, is conducted.

Building, Residential. A residential building is a building which is arranged, designed, used as intended to be used for residential occupancy by one or more persons and which includes, but is not limited, to the following types:

1. Single-family detached dwellings.
2. Two-family dwellings.
3. Multiple-family dwellings.
4. Rooming houses.
5. Student residence halls.
6. Nursing homes.
7. Dormitory.

Bulk. Bulk is a term used to measure, assess and regulate the impact of buildings, structures or land uses on other nearby buildings, structures or land uses and includes the following factors:

1. Size and height of buildings;
2. Location of exterior walls and required on-site facilities at all levels in relation to lot lines, public streets, or to other buildings;
3. Gross floor area of buildings in relation to lot area (floor area ratio);
4. All open spaces allocated to buildings;
5. Size, number, height, and location of signs; and
   
6. Type, amount and location of landscaping and site screening used to shield or reduce the impact of land uses on surrounding property.

Cabana. A portable or semi-permanent structure often used as a changing room for a swimming pool or other recreational use.

Cannabis Business Facility. An adult-use cannabis cultivation center, craft grower, processor, infuser, dispenser, or transporter.

Cannabis, Craft Grower. A facility operated by an organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to cultivate, dry, cure and package cannabis and perform other necessary activities to make cannabis available for sale at a dispensing organization or use at a processing organization under the State Cannabis Act.

Cannabis, Cultivation Center. A facility operated by an organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to cultivate, process, transport, and perform necessary activities to provide cannabis and cannabis-infused products to licensed cannabis business under the State Cannabis Act.

Cannabis, Dispenser. A facility operated by an organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation to acquire cannabis from licensed cannabis business establishments for the purpose of selling or dispensing cannabis, cannabis-infused products, cannabis seeds, paraphernalia or related supplies to purchasers or to qualified registered medical cannabis patients and caregivers under the State Cannabis Act.

Cannabis, Infuser. A facility operated by an organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to directly incorporate cannabis or cannabis concentrate into a product formulation to produce a cannabis-infused product under the State Cannabis Act.

Cannabis, Processor. A facility operated by an organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to either extract constituent chemicals or compounds to produce cannabis concentrate or incorporate cannabis or cannabis concentrate into a product formulation to produce a cannabis product under the State Cannabis Act.

Cannabis, State Cannabis Act. The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, enacted under Public Act 101-27 of the Illinois General Assembly.

Cannabis, Transporter. An organization or business that is licensed by the Illinois Department of Agriculture to transport cannabis on behalf of a cannabis business establishment or a community college licensed under the Community College Cannabis Vocational Training Pilot Program under the State Cannabis Act.

Canopy (Attached). A multisided, flat overhead structure or architectural projection supported by attachments to a building on one or more sides and either cantilevered from such building or also supported by columns at additional points. The surface(s) and/or soffit of an attached canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light.

Canopy (Freestanding). A multisided, flat overhead structure supported by columns, but not enclosed by walls. The surface(s) and or soffit of a freestanding canopy may be illuminated by means of internal or external sources of light.

Car Wash. A car wash is a building or portion thereof, containing facilities for washing motor vehicles, using automatic production-line methods with a chain conveyor blower, steam cleaning device, or other mechanical devices; or providing space, water, and equipment for the handwashing of autos, whether by the customer or the operator.

Carport, Attached. A carport is an automobile shelter, formed by extension of the roof from the side of a building and enclosed on not more than 2 sides by a wall. An attached carport is not considered an accessory structure.

Carport, Detached. A carport is an automobile shelter not connected to the principal building and which is enclosed on not more than 2 sides by a wall. A detached carport is considered an accessory structure.

Cemetery. Land used for the burial of the deceased, which may include offices, structures for performing religious ceremonies related to the entombment of the deceased, and related accessory structures for the storage of maintenance equipment.

Certificate of Appropriateness. Certificate of Appropriateness means a certificate issued by the Historic Preservation Commission indicating its approval of plans for alteration, construction, removal, or demolition of a landmark or of a structure within an S-3 Historic and Cultural District.

Certification of Economic Hardship. Certification of Economic Hardship means a certificate issued by the Historic Preservation Commission authorizing an alteration, construction, removal, or demolition, even though a Certificate of Appropriateness has previously been denied.

Chimney. A vertical structure used to remove smoke and combustion gases from a building that is often of masonry construction.

Club, Lodge, or Hall. A meeting, recreational, or social facility established for the use of the members and guests of a non-profit or private organization.

Cohesiveness. Unity of composition between design elements of a building, or a group of buildings, and the landscape development.

College or University. A facility for post-secondary higher learning that grants associate or bachelor degrees. The institution may also have research facilities and/or professional schools that grant master and doctoral degrees. "College or University" includes ancillary uses such as dormitories, cafeterias, restaurants, retail sales, indoor or outdoor recreational facilities, and similar uses.

Column. Supporting pillar, one consisting of a usually round shaft, a capital, and base.

Common Recreation Space (Common Open Space). Common recreation space is a parcel or parcels of land unoccupied by structures, buildings, public streets, private streets, alleys, or automobile parking lots which is designed and intended for the use or enjoyment of residents of a planned unit development. Common recreation space may contain structures for recreational use; however, no area within 15 feet of any building or structure except a structure used for recreational use shall be includable as common recreation space. All common recreation space shall have an area of not less than l0,000 square feet; no median of such common recreation space shall be less than 100 feet and such common recreation space shall not be less than 50 feet in width.

Community Library Kiosk. A small, freestanding structure used for exchanging books and reference materials within a community.

Compatibility. Harmony in the appearance of two or more buildings, structures, and landscape developments in the same vicinity.

Compatible Use. A compatible use is a property, use, or service which is capable of direct association with certain other uses because it is complimentary, congruous, or otherwise not detrimental.

Compost Bin. A container used to store and break down organic matter to produce material that facilitates fertilizing and conditioning soil.

Conforming Building or Structure. A conforming building or structure is any building or structure which complies with all the regulations of this Zoning Code or of any amendment hereto governing bulk for the zoning district in which such building or structure is located.

Conservation. The protection and care which prevent destruction or deterioration of historical or otherwise significant structures, buildings, or natural resources.

Construction. Construction means the act of adding an addition to an existing structure or the erection of a new principal or accessory structure on a lot.

Construction Trailer. A portable building or structure that may include office space and/or facilities for equipment storage for a construction project.

Cornice. An ornamental topping that crowns the structure it is on.

Critical Root Zone. An area around the tree intended to protect its roots, calculated as the distance from the trunk of a tree equal to 1 foot for every 1 inch of the tree's diameter 1 foot above the ground.

Cross-Access. A vehicular and/or pedestrian connection between adjacent properties that allows circulation between the sites without using the sidewalk or street.

Cross Slope. The incline of a path perpendicular to the direction of travel.

Cultural Facility. A use that provides cultural services including, but not limited to, museums, cultural centers, historical societies, and libraries.

Cutoff Luminaire. The candela at 90 degrees above nadir is less than 5% of rated lumens, and less than 20% of rated lumens at 80 degrees above nadir.

Day Care Center. A Day Care Center is a premise licensed by the State of Illinois and receiving more than 8 children for care during all or part of a day or night. As used herein the term children does not include the children of the operator(s) of the Day Care Center. (Amended 2/20/95 by Ord. No. 4290, Effective 7/1/95)

Day Care Home. A day care home is a dwelling unit licensed by the State of Illinois in which 1 or more persons provides care during the day or night to not more than 8 children, excluding all natural, adopted and foster children of the residents of the dwelling unit. (Amended 2/20/95 by Ord. No. 4290, Effective 7/1/95)(Amended 4/15/96 by Ord. No. 4385)

Deck. A roofless outdoor platform often constructed of wood or composite wood that is elevated from the ground and connects to the exterior wall of a building.

Decommissioning. The process of terminating the operation of a wind-energy facility by completely removing the entire wind-energy facility.

Decorative Screen. A wall or fence intended to partially or entirely cut off visibility to the area behind it.

Demolition. Demolition means any act or process that destroys in part or in whole a building or structure.

Design Guideline. Design Guideline means a standard of appropriate activity that will preserve the historic and architectural character of a structure or a historic district.

Development. Development means both the act of changing and the state of a tract of land after its function has been purposefully changed by man including, but not limited to, erection of structures on the land, and alterations to the land.

District. A district is a portion of the territory of the Town of Normal within which certain generally uniform regulations and requirements unique thereto, apply under the provisions of this chapter.

Dog Run. An enclosed area located within a yard that provides space for a dog to exercise.

Domestic Utility Trailer. A single-axle trailer used for domestic or recreational purposes only and not exceeding any of the following dimensions: 6 feet in width; 12 feet in length or 8 feet in height. No domestic utility trailer may be used for business or commercial purposes. (Added 7/15/02 by Ord. No. 4804)

Dormitory. A dormitory is a residential building where group sleeping accommodations are provided for persons not members of the same family and where the number accommodated exceeds that allowed in a dwelling unit in the district. The group sleeping accommodations may be in one room or in a series of closely associated rooms under occupancy and single management as in college dormitories, fraternity houses, sorority houses, military barracks, etc., regardless of whether meals are provided.

Drive-In Establishment. A drive-in establishment is a business or institution where the principal use is either the offering of goods or services directly to customers waiting in parked motor vehicles or carry-out food service.

Drive-Through Facility. A facility used to provide products or services through a window, attendant, or automated machine to people in motor vehicles. A drive-through facility may be established in combination with other uses, such as a financial institution, personal services establishment. restaurant, or retail goods establishment. A drive-through facility is not considered to be established in combination with a car wash, gas station, or motor vehicle repair and/or service.

Driveway. A driveway is a private accessway for motor vehicles between a public or private street and one or more structures or off-street parking areas.

Driveway Apron. The portion of a driveway that extends from the property line, through the right-of-way to the street.

Driveway, Common. A common driveway is a driveway serving two or more structures or off-street parking areas, which are located on individual lots.

Driveway Flare. A portion of a driveway within the driveway apron, but not passing through the sidewalk, in which the driveway gradually widens as it meets the street to better accommodate vehicles turning into or out of the driveway.

Driveway Parking Pad. A portion of a driveway used to park a motor vehicle that is generally wider than the portion of the driveway used to access the lot.

Dwelling. A dwelling is a building designed or used principally for residential occupancy, including, without limitation, single-family dwellings, two-family dwellings, and multiple-family dwellings.

Dwelling, Multiple-Family. A multiple-family dwelling is a building containing 3 or more dwelling units.

Dwelling, Single-Family. A single-family dwelling is a building containing 1 dwelling unit only.

Dwelling, Townhouse. A building that contains 3 or more dwelling units where each unit has an individual entrance to the outdoors and each unit is attached vertically using one or more party walls. “Townhouse Dwelling” does not include “Two-Unit Dwelling” or “Multiple-Unit Dwelling.”

Dwelling, Two-Family. A two-family dwelling is a building containing 2 dwelling units only.

Dwelling Unit. A dwelling unit is one or more rooms arranged or designed for the use of one family living together as a single housekeeping unit with cooking, living, sanitary and sleeping facilities in a self-contained unit, so that access to the street in any additional facilities (such as laundry, heating units, etc.) can be gained without passing through any other residential or commercial unit. Dwelling unit does not include hotel/motel, model unit, recreational vehicle, or tent.

Dwelling Unit, Attached. An attached dwelling unit is one which is joined to another dwelling unit on 1 or more sides by a vertical party wall or walls.

Dwelling Unit, Detached. A detached dwelling unit is one which is entirely surrounded by open space.

Dwelling Unit, Efficiency. An efficiency unit is a dwelling unit consisting of one principal room together with bathroom, kitchen, hallway, closets, or dining alcove directly off the principal room, providing such dining alcove does not exceed 125 square feet in area.

Dwelling Unit, Mobile Home. A mobile home dwelling unit is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-certified dwelling unit of vehicular, portable design built on a chassis and designed to be moved from one site to another and capable of being used without a permanent foundation.

Easement. Land that has been designated by lawful agreement between the owner of the land and another entity for a specified use by such entity.

Eave. The projecting lower edge of a roof that overhangs the wall of a building.

Electric Vehicle Charging Station. A location used to supply energy to electric vehicles.

Electrical Generator. A device that generates electrical power.

Encroachment. The location of a structure within a required setback.

Entertainment, Indoor. An enclosed building where spectator uses are conducted by a for-profit entity that typically charges patrons a fee to enter. Typical indoor entertainment uses include, but are not limited to, indoor theaters, indoor music venues, and indoor sports arenas. Indoor entertainment uses may include refreshment stands that provide products for consumption on the premises. Indoor entertainment does not include adult use.

Entertainment, Outdoor. An open air or partially enclosed structure in which spectator uses are conducted by a for-profit entity that typically charges patrons a fee to enter. Typical outdoor entertainment uses include, but are not limited to, outdoor theaters, outdoor music venues, outdoor sports arenas, and amusement parks. Outdoor entertainment uses may include refreshment stands that provide products for consumption on the premises. Outdoor entertainment does not include outdoor recreation.

Entertainment, Outdoor Temporary. A live event that is intended to be in place for a limited period of time within an outdoor space. Temporary outdoor entertainment may include, but is not limited to, animal shows, carnivals, circuses, fireworks shows, live music, outdoor theater, and worship services.

Entryway. A place of entrance.

Environmental Performance Standards. Criteria established to regulate noise, odor, dust, air pollution, glare, heat, vibration, fire, explosion hazards, or hazardous materials generated by the use of land or buildings.

Excavation. An excavation is any breaking of ground, except common household gardening and ground care.

Exterior Architectural Appearance. Exterior architectural appearance means the architectural character and general composition of the exterior of a structure, including but not limited to the kind, color, and texture of the building material and the type, design, and character of all windows, doors, light fixtures, signs, and appurtenant elements.

Exterior Building Component. An essential and visible part of the exterior of a building.

Facade, Building. The exterior face of a building, including, but not limited to, the walls, windows, windowsills, doorways, and design elements.

Facade, Front. Any facade that faces and is most closely parallel to the front lot line.

Facade, Rear. Any facade that faces and is most closely parallel to the rear lot line.

Facade, Upper. Above the storefront. Displays the structure’s essential architectural style.

Facility Owner. Any person who has an equity interest in the wind-energy facility.

Family.

1. In the R-1A, Single-Family Residence District, and R-1B, Single-Family Residence District, a family is one of the following:
   1. One person or 2 or more persons each related to each other by blood, marriage, or legal adoption, any foster children residing with such person or persons in a "foster family home" as that term is defined in the Illinois Child Care Act of 1969 as amended and an aggregate of not more than 1 roomer or boarder, whether or not gratuitous, maintaining a common household in a dwelling unit.
   2. An aggregate of not more than 5 individuals having a developmental disability as defined by Illinois Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code as amended January 1, 1979, and not more than 2 persons supervising such person or person(s). (Amended 12/15/97 by Ord. No. 4487)(Amended 1/16/01 by Ord. No. 4706)
   3. A group of not more than 2 persons not so related maintaining a common household in a dwelling unit.
2. In all other zoning districts, a family is either 1 person or 2 or more persons each related to each other by blood, marriage, or legal adoption, any foster children residing with such person or persons in a "foster family home" as that term is defined in the Illinois Child Care Act of 1969, as amended, and an aggregate of not more than two (2) roomers or boarders not related to each other, whether or not gratuitous, maintaining a common household in a dwelling unit; or a group of not more than 4 persons not so related maintaining a common household in a dwelling unit. However, in no case shall more than 2 unrelated individuals occupy an efficiency unit or one (1) bedroom dwelling unit.

Fascia. The exposed vertical edge of a roof.

Fence, Permanent. A fence is a structure other than a building or a portion thereof which is a barrier and is used as a boundary, screen, separation, means of privacy, protection or confinement. Permanent fences are constructed of materials intended for long-term fencing usage. A fence may not be electrified or constructed of barbed wire or similar material except as follows: In the Agriculture Districts; in the Manufacturing Districts barbed wire or similar material only; in the Special Public Interest Districts barbed wire or similar material only. (Amended 11/20/95 by Ord. No. 4356)

Fence, Temporary. A temporary fence is intended for short-term and/or seasonal use related to erosion control, construction, or the like.

Fill. Soil or other solid material that has been added to a portion of the ground surface.

Financial Institution. A bank, credit union, or savings and loan office, or an automated teller machine established by such an entity. Financial institution does not include currency exchange or payday or title loan establishment.

Flood or Spotlight. Any light fixture or lamp that incorporates a reflector or a refractor to concentrate the light output into a directed beam in a particular direction.

Floor Area. (For the purposes of determining off-street parking and off-street loading requirements and minimum area per dwelling unit). Floor area is the sum of the gross horizontal area of several floors of the building excluding areas used for:

1. Accessory off-street parking.
2. Basement or cellar areas devoted exclusively to accessory uses.

All horizontal dimensions shall be taken from the exterior faces of the walls or from the center line of walls separating 2 dwelling units or 2 buildings.

Floor Area Ratio. Floor area ratio is the numerical value obtained through dividing the floor area of a building or buildings by the lot area on which such building(s) are located. Floor area is the sum of the gross horizontal areas of the several floors measured in square feet, including the cellar floor of the building; measured from the exterior faces of the exterior walls or from the center line of walls separating two buildings. The floor area of a building shall also include elevator shafts and stairwells at each floor; floor space used for mechanical equipment, except equipment, open or enclosed, located on the roof, penthouses, and attic space having headroom of seven feet ten inches or more; interior balconies and mezzanines; enclosed porches, and floor area devoted to accessory uses, provided that any space devoted to off-street parking or loading shall not be included in floor area.

Footcandle. See Lumen.

Frieze. The plain or decorative band or board located just below the storefront cornice.

Frontage (Building). The length of an exterior building wall or structure of a single premise oriented to the public way or other properties that it faces.

Frontage (Property). The length of the property line(s) of any single premise along either a street or public right-of-way.

Full Cutoff Light Fixture. Fixtures, as installed, that are designed or shielded in such a manner that all light rays emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp(s) or indirectly from the fixture, are projected below a horizontal plane running through the lowest point on the fixture where light is emitted.

Fully Shielded Light Fixture. A light fixture shielded or constructed so that no light rays are emitted by the installed fixture at angles above the horizontal plane as certified by a photometric test report.

Funeral Home/Crematory. An establishment where services are conducted for the deceased, including facilities to prepare the deceased for display, burial, and/or cremation.

Garage, Estate, or Yard Sale. The sale of a variety of used household items, which is typically held in the garage or front yard of a residential dwelling unit.

Garage, Private. A private garage is an accessory building or an accessory portion of a principal building, including a carport, the principal use of which is the storage of one or more motor vehicles of the person, family or families resident in the principal building to which the garage is accessory and in which no business or commercial service or activity is performed, provided however, if a private garage is of sufficient size to provide, within the garage, all the off-street parking required by the Zoning Code for the principal use, then any extra or surplus space may be rented for a fee to persons not resident in the principal building to which the garage is accessory, which such space may be used for the principal purpose of storing boats, trailers, recreational vehicles and/or private passenger motor vehicles.

Garden. An area dedicated to the cultivation of plants.

Garden Center. An establishment that sells plants grown or stored on site.

Glare. The sensation produced by luminances within the visual field that are sufficiently greater than the luminance to which the eyes are adapted, which causes annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and visibility.

Golf Course. A tract of land designed with at least nine holes for playing a game of golf and improved with tees, greens, fairways, and hazards. A golf course may include a clubhouse, driving range, restrooms, and related accessory structures for the storage of maintenance equipment.

Government Facility. A building or structure owned, operated, and/or occupied by a governmental agency to provide services to the public. Government facility includes public safety facilities, public works facilities, post offices, and administrative offices

Grade. A reference plane representing the average of finished ground level adjoining the building at all exterior walls. When the finished ground level slopes away from the exterior walls, the referenced plane shall be established by the lowest points within the area between the building and the lot line; or, when the lot line is more than 6 feet from the building, between the building and a point 6 feet from the building.

Grading. Altering the shape of the ground surface to a predetermined condition, which may include stripping, cutting, filling, stockpiling, and shaping or any combination of these practices.

Grandfamily. A family headed by at least one person age 55 or older together with one or more persons, each related, to such person age 55 or older by blood, marriage, legal adoption, or foster care relationship in a foster-family home as that term is defined in the Illinois Child Care Act of 1969, as amended, and such persons so related by blood, marriage, legal adoption, or foster care placement is aged 18 or younger or no more than 22 years of age and a full-time student. (Added 5/18/09 by Ord. No. 5265)

Greenhouse. A building for the cultivation and protection of plants, which is typically constructed of transparent glass, metal, and/or plastic.

Guests, Permanent. A permanent guest is a person who occupies or has the right to occupy a hotel, motel, or apartment hotel accommodation as his place of permanent residence.

Gutter. A structure used to convey stormwater that is located at the eave of a roof.

Hard Surface. Hard surface means any asphalt or concrete surface of an approved thickness, or other approved surface, but excluding rock, gravel, grass, or dirt. (Added 12/17/01 by Ord. No. 4760 – Effective 4/1/02)

Harmony. A quality which produces an aesthetically pleasing whole as in arrangement of varied architectural and landscape elements.

Headstone. A non-commercial sign in the form of a tombstone, tablet, grave marker, statuary, or memorial, that offers a remembrance of people or events.

Health Club. A health club is an establishment that provides equipment and facilities for physical exercise or athletic activities on the premises; it shall not include, however, facilities for indoor sports activities that require a hard surfaced type of court, a bowling alley, a swimming pool, ice skating or roller skating rink facility.

Height of Luminaire. The height of a luminaire shall be the vertical distance from the ground directly below the centerline of the luminaire to the lowest direct-light-emitting part of the luminaire.

Heliport. A heliport is an area of land, water and/or a structure or building which is used or intended for use for the landing and taking off of helicopters, and any appurtenant areas which are used or intended for use for heliport buildings or other heliport facilities or rights-of-way, including all necessary pads, helicopter storage and tie-down areas, hangars, and other necessary buildings and open spaces.

Historic Area. Historic area means an area containing buildings or places in which historic events have occurred or which have special public value because of notable architectural or other features relating to the cultural or artistic heritage of the community which warrant conservation and preservation.

Historic District. Historic District means an area designed as a "S-3 Historic and Cultural District" by ordinance of the Town Council and which may contain within definable geographic boundaries 1 or more landmarks and which may have within its boundaries other properties or structures that, while not of such historic and/or architectural significance to be designated as landmarks, nevertheless contribute to the overall visual characteristics of the landmark or landmarks located within such historic area.

Historic Landmark. Landmark means a property or structure designated as a landmark by Ordinance of the President and Board of Trustees, pursuant to procedures prescribed herein, that is worthy of rehabilitation, restoration, and preservation because of its historic and/or architectural significance to the town.

Home Occupation. A home occupation is an occupation or profession practiced by a member of the family residing in the dwelling unit and which occupation is clearly an accessory use to the principal residential use of the dwelling unit.

Hoophouse. A structure used to extend the growing season of agricultural crops that is generally made of plastic and semicircular in shape.

Hospital. A hospital is an institution where the sick or injured are given medical or surgical care.

Hot Tub. An in-ground or aboveground basin of water that includes an air-injection system and/or water heating system that is intended for soaking.

Hotel (Motel). A hotel is an establishment which is open to transient guests, in contradistinction to a boarding house, lodging house, or apartment hotel, and is commonly known as a hotel (motel) in the community in which it is located; and which provides customary hotel services such as mail service, the furnishing and laundering of linen, telephone and secretarial or desk service, the use and upkeep of furniture and bellhop service.

Illegal Structure. A structure that did not legally exist prior to the adoption of this ordinance and does not conform with the current ordinance requirements for the district in which it is located.

Illegal Use. An activity or facility that does not enjoy a legal conforming or legal nonconforming status, as defined in this ordinance.

Impervious Coverage. The proportion of the area of a zoning lot occupied by surfaces that do not allow stormwater infiltration to the lot area of the zoning lot. Surfaces that do not allow stormwater infiltration may include, but are not limited to, principal structures, accessory structures, walkways, paved parking lots, and paved driveways.

Independent Living Facility. A residential facility that contains dwelling units where at least one of the residents occupying a unit is 55 years or older. Such facilities do not provide regular in-patient medical or nursing care but may provide common areas for meals or socializing and limited convenience services. An independent living facility does not include assisted living facility, community residence, or nursing home.

Indirect Light. Direct light that has been reflected or has scattered off of other surfaces.

Institution. An institution is an established society or corporation of a public character.

Junk Yard. A junk yard is an open area where junk, waste, scrap, used equipment and vehicle parts, discarded or salvaged materials are bought, sold, exchanged, stored, baled, packed, disassembled, or handled, including but not limited to scrap iron and other metals, paper, rags, rubber tires and bottles. A junk yard includes automobile wrecking yards, house wrecking yards, used lumberyards and places or yards for storage of salvaged house wrecking and structural steel materials and equipment, but does not include uses established entirely within enclosed buildings. This land use is not permitted in any zoning district.

Lamp. The part of the luminaire that produces the actual light.

Landscape. Elements of nature, topography, buildings, and other manmade objects combined in relation to one another, including but not limited to trees, shrubs, vines, ground cover, flowers, grass, rock, stone, architectural or structural features such as fountains, reflecting pools, artwork, screens, fences, and benches so long as such non-vegetative components compose no more than 25% of required landscaping.

Landscape Professional. One who is employed in the business of landscape sales, installation, or design and who is an Illinois Certified Nurseryman or equivalent designation.

Laundromat. An establishment that provides washing, drying, and/or ironing machines for use by customers on the premises.

Light Fixture. The entire assembly that houses the lamp or lamps.

Light Pollution. Any adverse effect of manmade lighting, including, but not limited to, uplighting and sky glow, both of which diminish the ability to view the night sky, and light trespass.

Light Trespass. The shining of light produced by a luminaire beyond the boundaries of the property on which it is located.

Light, Yard. A residential-scale light no brighter than one-half footcandle at ground level.

Lighting, Unshielded. A fixture that allows light to be emitted above a horizontal plane from the lowest point of the fixture that emits light.

Lighting, Uplighting. Lighting that is directed in such a manner as to shine light rays above the horizontal plane of the luminaire.

Liner Housing. A building designed to mask or screen an adjacent structure such as a parking garage. (Added 9/19/2011 by Ord. No. 5397)

Lot. A lot is a parcel of land occupied, or intended to be occupied, by a main building or a group of buildings, or utilized for the principal use and uses accessory thereto, together with such open spaces as are required under the provisions of this chapter, or as may be provided therewith. A lot may or may not be specifically designated as such on public records. A lot shall have frontage on one or more public streets.

Lot, Area. Lot area is the area of a horizontal plane bounded by the vertical planes through front, side, and rear lot lines. Lot area shall not include land that has been, is proposed, or is necessary to be dedicated as public right-of-way and shall only include land dedicated as an easement if the utility for which the easement is necessary is located underground or overhead.

Lot, Corner. A corner lot is a lot situated at the intersection of 2 streets, the interior angle of such intersection not exceeding 135 degrees.

Lot, Flag. A lot where the vast majority of the lot can only be accessed from the right-of-way by means of a narrow strip of land between adjacent lots.

Lot, Interior. An interior lot is a lot other than a corner or reversed corner lot.

Lot, Non-conforming. (See Non-conforming Lot.)

Lot, Out (or Outlot). A lot depicted on a final subdivision plat which does not meet the requirements of this Code for lots of record and which may not be used for building or parking lots. (Amended 1/19/99 by Ord. No. 4576 (was Outlot)

Lot, Through. A through lot is a lot having a pair of opposite lot lines along 2 more or less parallel public streets, and which is not a corner lot. On a through lot both street lines shall be deemed front lot lines.

Lot Depth, Minimum. The lot depth is the mean horizontal distance between the front lot line and the rear lot line of a lot, measured within the lot boundaries.

Lot Line (Property Line). A lot line is a boundary line of a lot.

Lot Line, Front. The front lot line is that boundary line of any lot which is along a dedicated public street or the occupation line on a non-dedicated public street. On corner lots, both property lines adjacent to a public street or private street are considered front lot lines.

Lot Line, Rear. The rear lot line is that boundary of a lot which is most distant from and is approximately parallel to the front lot line. If the rear lot line is less than 10 feet in length, or if the lot forms a point at the rear, the rear lot line shall be deemed to be a line 10 feet in length within the lot, parallel to, and at the maximum distance from, the front lot line. On a corner lot, the rear lot line is opposite either of the two front lot lines, leaving the remaining lot like as the side lot line.

Lot Line, Side. The side lot line shall be any boundary of a lot which is not a front lot line or a rear lot line.

Lot Width, Minimum. The minimum lot width is the mean horizontal distance between the side lot lines of a lot, measured within the lot boundary. Lot width shall be measured at the front lot line or at the required setback line or cul-de-sac within the lot boundary behind the required front yard setback line.

Lot of Record. A lot of record is a lot which is part of a subdivision recorded in the office of the McLean County Recorder of Deeds, or a lot or parcel described by metes and bounds, the description of which has been so recorded.

Lumen. A unit of luminous flux. One footcandle is one lumen per square foot. For the purposes of this ordinance, the lumen output values shall be the initial lumen output ratings of a lamp.

Luminaire. A complete lighting system, including a lamp or lamps and a fixture.

Machinery and Equipment Sales and Rental. Establishments primarily engaged in the sale or rental of tools, trucks, tractors, construction equipment, and similar industrial equipment. Machinery and equipment sales and rental includes the incidental storage, maintenance, and servicing of such equipment.

Major Recreational Equipment. Major recreational equipment means travel trailers (a vehicular, portable structure built on a chassis, designed to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreational or vacation uses, or one permanently identified as a travel trailer by the manufacturer of the trailer); pick-up coaches (a structure designed to be mounted on a truck chassis for use as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreation and vacation); motor-homes (a portable, temporary dwelling to be used for travel, recreation and vacation, constructed as an integral part of a self-propelled vehicle); camping trailer (a canvas, material or metal folding structure, mounted on wheels, designed for travel, recreation and vacation use); boats; snowmobiles; jet skis; all-terrain vehicles (ATV); dirt bikes; golf carts; and trailers holding boats, snowmobiles, jet skis, all-terrain vehicles (ATV), dirt bikes or golf carts. (Amended 12/17/01 by Ord. No. 4760 – Effective 4/1/02)(Amended 7/15/02 by Ord. No. 4804)

Manufacturing, Heavy. A use engaged in manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, packaging, storage, handling, or other industrial processing of products from unprocessed or raw materials, which may include the use of highly flammable material, or toxic matter. Heavy manufacturing uses may be engaged in processes that are likely to have a substantial impact on the environment or on adjacent properties. Typical heavy manufacturing uses include, but are not limited to, chemical processing, grain milling, metal casting, metal smelting, motor vehicle assembly, motor vehicle wrecking, petroleum refining, rendering, tire assembly, and asphalt, brick, concrete, or tile manufacturing.

Manufacturing, Light. A use engaged in manufacturing, assembly, fabrication, packaging, storage, handling, or other industrial processing of products primarily from prepared materials or finished products, which does not include the use of highly flammable material, or toxic matter. Light Manufacturing uses may be engaged in processes that have a minimal impact on the environment and adjacent properties. Typical light manufacturing uses include, but are not limited to contractors, equipment suppliers, and commercial printing.

Mechanical Hardware and Equipment. Equipment, devices, and accessories, the use of which relates to water supply, drainage, heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and similar purposes.

Microbrewery or Microdistillery. A facility for the production and packaging of malt beverages of alcoholic content with a capacity of less than 30,000 barrels per year, or a facility for the production and packaging of spirits and liquors with a capacity of less than 50,000 gallons per year. Microbreweries or Microdistilleries include a tasting room, which allows customers to consume products manufactured on site, and/or a retail space for purchase of products manufactured on site and related items. Breweries that exceed a capacity of 30,000 barrels per year, distilleries that exceed a capacity of 50,000 gallons a year, or facilities that only manufacture for distribution are considered either light manufacturing or heavy manufacturing depending on capacity.

Mobile Food Facility. A motorized vehicle or mobile food unit, such as a pushcart, that is used to sell food items.

Mobile Home Park. A mobile home park is a lot or lands upon which 2 or more independent mobile homes are harbored either free of charge or for a fee, and shall include any buildings, structure, tent vehicle, or enclosure used or intended for use as a part of the equipment of such mobile home park.

Model Unit. A building or structure displayed as an example of the dwelling units available for sale or for rent in a residential development. A model unit may include sales or rental offices. Model unit does not include dwelling unit.

Molding. A decorative wood or stone contour or band, used in exterior and interior architectural elements.

Nameplate Capacity. The maximum output rating of a wind generator.

Nonparticipating Landowner. Any landowner except those on whose property all or a portion of a wind-energy facility is located under an agreement with the facility owner or operator.

Non-conforming Building or Structure. A non-conforming building or structure is any building or structure or portion thereof lawfully existing at the time of adoption of this ordinance, or amendment thereto, that does not comply with all the regulations of this ordinance or any amendment hereto governing bulk for the zoning district in which such building or structure is located.

Non-conforming Lot. A non-conforming lot is a lot of record which when recorded met the minimum lot area and other dimension requirements of the Municipal Code of the Town of Normal, but which through subsequent amendments to such Code or other acts of a public body has caused the lot of record to be in conflict with the minimum lot area or other dimension requirements of the Codes.

Non-conforming Use. A non-conforming use is any use of land, buildings, or structures which use is not permitted in the zoning district in which such use is located, but which use was permitted at the time such use was established.

Non-conforming Site Element. A site characteristic that at one time conformed to applicable development regulations, but no longer conforms due to subsequent amendments to this ordinance, including impervious coverage, off-street parking and loading, landscaping, lighting, signs, or other similar characteristics of a site.

Nursery. A nursery is a space, building or structure, or combination thereof, for the storage of live trees, shrubs or plants offered for wholesale or retail sale on the premises, including products used for gardening or landscaping. The definition of nursery within the meaning of this chapter does not include any space, building or structure used principally for the sale of fruits, vegetables or Christmas trees.

Nursing Home. A nursing home is a home for the aged, chronically ill, incurable persons, or a place of rest for those suffering bodily disorders in which 3 or more persons, not members of the immediate family residing on the premises, are received, kept or provided with food and shelter or care, but not including hospitals, clinics, or similar institutions devoted primarily to the diagnosis and treatment of disease or injury, maternity, or mental illness.

Occupied Building. A building (i) that is used by or that houses residents, customers, workers, or visitors and (ii) that is in use as such when the special-use permit is submitted.

Off-Premises Parking Facility. A parking facility that is not located on the same premises as the use which it serves.

Office, Professional. An establishment that engages in the application, processing, or manipulation of business information or professional expertise, or that offer health-related outpatient treatment by licensed health professionals. A professional office must not manufacture, assemble, warehouse, or repair goods and products for the retail or wholesale market, or engage in the repair of products or the provision of retail services. Professional office may include, but is not limited to, medical offices, dental offices, law firms, insurance agencies, accounting firms, real estate agencies, investment firms, and non-profit organizations. Professional office does not include government facility.

Official Comprehensive Plan (Comprehensive Plan). The Official Comprehensive Plan is the composite of the functional and geographic elements of the Comprehensive Plan of the Town of Normal, or any segment thereof, in the form of plans, maps, charts, textual materials and the official map, as adopted by the Town Council.

Official Map. The Official Map is the map adopted by the Town Council as a part of the Comprehensive Plan which is designated "Official Map" in that Plan.

Official Zoning Map. The Official Zoning Map is the map adopted by the Town Council showing all the zoning district boundaries within the Town of Normal, Illinois.

Open Sales Lot. An open sales lot is any land used or occupied for the purpose of buying and selling merchandise, motor vehicles, any form of trailers, mobile homes, motorized homes, motor scooters, motorcycles, boats, aircraft and monuments, or for the sorting of same prior to sale. An open sales lot does not have a principal use or principal building. This land use is not permitted in any zoning district.

Operator. The person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the wind-energy facility.

Operable Shutters. Shutters capable of being closed over the window opening.

Operable Windows. Windows capable of being opened and closed.

Ornamental Grass. An annual or perennial grass plant valued for its texture and color in the landscape.

Outdoor Fireplace or Fire Pit. An outdoor area to burn materials that is equipped with a hearth and chimney, or that is open in design, and is generally constructed of steel, concrete, clay, or other noncombustible material.

Outdoor Light Fixture. Outdoor, electrically powered illuminating devices, outdoor lighting or reflective surfaces, lamps and similar devices, permanently installed or portable, used for illumination or advertisement.

Outdoor Lighting. Night-time illumination of an outside area or object by any man-made device located outdoors that produces light by any means.

Outdoor Sale, Temporary. The outdoor sale and display of merchandise of a seasonal nature, such as pumpkins or Christmas trees.

Outdoor Sales and Display Area. An area for the sales and display of products and services outside of a building or structure that is accessory to a principal use.

Owner. The legal or beneficial title-holder of land, or the holder of a written option to contract or purchase the land.

Owner (re Wind Ordinance). Collectively, the landowner, facility owner, and operator sharing joint responsibility.

Park. An area for active recreation, passive recreation, and/or resource protection that is open to the public. Park may include, but are not limited to, baseball fields, football fields, soccer fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, playgrounds, water parks, and field houses. Park does not include indoor recreation or outdoor recreation.

Parking, On-Street. An area located within a right-of-way that is used to park a motor vehicle.

Parking, Stacked (Tandem). A parking area consisting of two or more parking spaces placed one behind the other, with the space nearest to the driveway or street serving as the only means of access to the other space.

Parking Area, Paved. A motor vehicle parking area located adjacent to the entrance to a garage.

Patio. A roofless hard surfaced area typically constructed of masonry, brick, or concrete that is attached to the ground adjacent to the wall of a building.

Pawn Shop. An establishment licensed, certified, or accredited by the appropriate local and state agencies that lends money in exchange for personal property that is used as collateral. Pawn shops may purchase personal property outright or on the condition of selling it back to a customer with interest. Pawn shops may include cash for gold establishments, which have the primary business of purchasing precious metals, jewelry, watches, and other similar items. Pawn shop does not include retail goods establishments such as antique stores and consignment stores.

Payday or Title Loan Establishment. An establishment that provides loans to individuals in exchange for personal checks or titles to motor vehicles. Payday or title loan establishment does not include currency exchange or financial institution.

Pergola. A freestanding structure with columns or posts topped with beams and open rafters, which may or may not be connected to the wall of a building.

Personal Services Establishment, General. A commercial enterprise primarily engaged in the provision of services of a personal nature, including facilities that sell products and goods in an incidental manner to the establishment's provision of services. Personal service establishment uses may include, but are not limited to, dry cleaners, barbershops, beauty salons, animal day care establishments, animal grooming establishments, shoe repair shops, tailor shops, and commercial educational facilities, such as driving schools, dance schools, and tutoring facilities.

Pier. An upright structure of masonry to serve as a principal support, whether isolated or part of a wall.

Place of Worship. An institution maintained by a religious body where people assemble for religious purposes, ceremonies, and other similar events. Place of worship may include housing for members of religious orders, day care centers, preschools, or elementary, middle or secondary schools.

Planned Unit Development. A planned unit development is a lot or lots developed as a unit under single ownership or unified control, which includes 1 or more principal buildings or uses, and is processed under the planned unit development procedure of this Code. (Amended 11/20/95 by Ord. No. 4356)

Plant Materials. Trees, shrubs, vines, ground covers, grass, perennials, annuals, and bulbs. Porch. An unenclosed roofed platform projecting from the exterior wall of a building.

Portico. A roofed entrance porch, often supported by columns or pillars.

Proportion. Relationship of parts of a building, landscape, structures, or buildings to each other and to the whole.

Rain Barrel. A container for storing rainwater installed above-grade that generally has a capacity of less than 500 gallons.

Rain Garden. A shallow vegetated basin that collects and absorbs stormwater runoff.

Rainwater Cistern. A container for storing rainwater that may be installed either above or below grade.

Recreation, Indoor. An enclosed building where recreational activities are conducted by a for-profit entity that typically charges patrons a fee to enter. Typical indoor recreation uses may include, but are not limited to, health clubs, bowling alleys, pool halls, children’s play facilities, sporting or training facilities, arcades, indoor miniature golf courses, indoor swimming pools, indoor tennis courts, and indoor skating facilities. Indoor recreation uses may include refreshment stands that provide products for consumption on the premises. Indoor recreation does not include indoor entertainment, park, or elementary, middle, or secondary school.

Recreation, Outdoor. An open air or partially enclosed structure in which recreational activities are conducted by a for-profit entity that typically charges patrons a fee to enter. Typical outdoor recreation uses may include, but are not limited to, outdoor miniature golf courses, outdoor swimming pools, outdoor tennis courts, and outdoor skating facilities. Outdoor recreation uses may include refreshment stands that provide products for consumption on the premises. Outdoor recreation does not include outdoor entertainment, park, elementary, middle, or secondary school.

Recreational Vehicle Camp. A recreational vehicle camp is a residential facility designed, used, or intended to be used to accommodate the overnight temporary location, hookup or use of its facilities for travel trailers, camp trailers, and other major recreational equipment.

Refuse, Recycling, or Grease Container. A receptacle for the disposal of litter, recyclables, or grease.

Removal. Removal means any relocation of a structure on its site or to another site.

Repair. Repair is any change that is not construction, removal, or alteration. This would include simple and minor mending to bring an element of a structure back to its original condition. It assumes that minimal expense and effort need be incurred to complete the repair.

Research/Development Facility. A facility in which ideas and technologies are investigated, tested, and refined in industries that may include, but is not limited to, electronics, computer hardware and software, communications, information technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Research/development facility may include the incidental manufacture and/or sale of products developed at the facility.

Residential Care Facility. A group care facility licensed for 24-hour medical or non-medical care of people in need of supervision or assistance essential for daily living, or for the protection of the individual. A residential care facility includes assisted living facility, independent living facility, nursing home, hospice, and continuum of care facilities. A residential care facility does not include community residence.

Residential Sign. A permanent sign located on a lot in a residential zoning district.

Restaurant. An establishment that prepares and sells food and beverages for consumption on the premises and/or for carry-out. Restaurant does not include refreshment stands incidental to indoor entertainment, indoor recreation, outdoor entertainment, or outdoor recreation uses.

Retail Goods Establishment. A commercial establishment that provides physical goods, products, or merchandise directly to the consumer for purchase and removal from the premises by the purchaser. Retail goods establishment may include, but is not limited to, grocery stores, clothing stores, jewelry stores, appliance stores, electronics stores, furniture stores, office supply stores, bookstores, and sporting goods stores.

Riding Stables. A riding stable is the grounds and building where horses are bred, raised, boarded or kept for remuneration, hire, or sale.

Roadside Market. A roadside market is a structure for the display and sale of agricultural products grown on the site only, with no space for customers within the structure itself.

Roof, Blue. A roof that is designed to store and discharge rainfall.

Roof, Flat. A flat roof structure with no visible slope, which is located on all street-facing facades and may or may not have overhanging eaves.

Roof, Green. A roof that is partially or completely covered with vegetation, a growing medium, and a waterproof membrane, that absorbs rainwater and reduces the heat absorbed by a building or structure.

Roof, Mansard. An inclined decorative roof–like projection that is attached to an exterior building facade.

Roof, Parapet. The extension of a building facade above the line of the structural roof.

Roof, Pitched. A pitched or sloped roof, including hipped roofs, gabled roofs, roofs with a combination of hips and gables, gambrel roofs, and mansard roofs.

Roof, White. A roof that is white or light in color that provides high levels of solar reflectance and reduces the heat absorbed by a building or structure.

Roof Line. The top edge of a peaked roof or, in the case of an extended facade or parapet, the uppermost point of said facade or parapet.

Roof-Mount Solar Energy System. A solar energy system in which solar panels are mounted on top of a building roof as either a flush-mounted system or as modules fixed to frames which can be tilted toward the south at an optimal angle.

Rooming House. A rooming house is any residential building, or any part thereof, containing 1 or more rooming units, in which space is let by the owner or operator to 5 or more persons who do not constitute a family, and which is designed with common living spaces.

Rooming Unit. A rooming unit is any room or group of rooms forming a single habitable unit used or intended to be used for living and sleeping, but not for cooking or eating purposes.

Row House (Town House). A row house (town house) is a multiple-family dwelling containing 3 or more attached dwelling units, each on its own plot of ground and joined to 1 (end unit) or 2 (interior units) dwelling units by firewalls. Each dwelling unit shall occupy the internal space from the ground to the roof.

Rules of Procedure. Regulations adopted by the Community Design Review Committee for the administration of duties delegated by the legislative authority.

Satellite Dish. A parabolic antenna designed to send and/or receive television, radio, communication, data, or other similar signals from satellites and antennas.

School, Elementary, Middle, or Secondary. A public or private educational facility offering instruction to preschool, elementary school, middle school, junior high school, and/or secondary school students with a full range of curricular programs.

Screen, Privacy. Structure that conceals from view from the public way or adjacent private property a permanent amenity attached to the house.

Service Walk. A paved area on a zoning lot connecting the front yard to the rear yard that may or may not be connect to a public right-of-way.

Setback. Setback is the horizontal distance between the lot line and any building or structure located on such lot. (Amended 11/20/95 by Ord. No. 4356)

Shade Tree. A deciduous tree, generally having a single stem, planted primarily for shade. Trees with an expected canopy of over 40 feet are considered large shade trees. Trees with an expected canopy of 30 to 40 feet are considered medium shade trees.

Shadow Flicker. The moving shadow created by the sun shining through the rotating blades of a wind-energy facility. The amount of shadow flicker created by a wind-energy facility is calculated by a computer model that measures wind-energy facility location, elevation, tree cover, location of adjacent structures, wind activity and sunlight angle.

Shrub. A multistemmed woody plant other than a tree.

Sign. A sign is any identification, description, illustration or device illuminated or non-illuminated which is visible from any public place or is located on private property and exposed to the public and which directs attention to a product, service, place, activity, person, institution, business or solicitation, including any permanently installed or situated merchandise; or any emblem, printing, banner, pennant, placard or temporary sign designed to advertise, identify or convey information, with the exception of window displays and national, state, county, municipal, and religious flags. A sign displays either commercial or noncommercial messages by means of graphic presentation of alphabetic or pictorial symbols or representations.

Sign, A-Frame (Sandwich Board Sign). A movable sign placed on the ground and constructed in the shape of an “A” or some variation thereof.

Sign, Abandoned. A sign which no longer correctly directs or exhorts any person, advertises a bona fide business, lessor, owner, product or activity conducted or product available on or off the premises where such sign is displayed.

Sign, Animated Sign. A sign employing actual motion or the illusion of motion. Animated signs, which are differentiated from changeable signs as defined and regulated by this code, include the following types:

1. Flashing. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by a repetitive cycle in which the period of illumination is either the same as or less than the period of non-illumination. For the purposes of this ordinance, flashing will not be defined as occurring if the cyclical period between on–off phases of illumination exceeds 4 seconds. 
2. Patterned illusionary movement. Animated signs or animated portions of signs whose illumination is characterized by simulated movement through alternate or sequential activation of various illuminated elements for the purpose of producing repetitive light patterns designed to appear in some form of constant motion. 
3. Electrically activated. Animated signs producing the illusion of movement by means of electronic, electrical or electro–mechanical input and/or illumination capable of simulating movement through employment of the characteristics of one or both of the classifications noted below: 
4. Environmentally activated. Animated signs or devices motivated by wind, thermal changes or other natural environmental input. Includes spinners, pinwheels, pennant strings, and/or other devices or displays that respond to naturally occurring external motivation. 
5. Mechanically activated. Animated signs characterized by repetitive motion and/or rotation activated by a mechanical system powered by electric motors or other mechanically induced means.

Sign, Architectural Projection. Any projection that is not intended for occupancy and that extends beyond the face of an exterior wall of a building, but that does not include signs as defined herein. See also, awning, back-lit awning, and canopy, attached and freestanding.

Sign, Area. The area of the smallest geometric figure, or the sum of the combination of regular geometric figures, which comprise the sign face. The area of any double–sided or “V” shaped sign shall be the area of the largest single face only. The area of a sphere shall be computed as the area of a circle. The area of all other multiple–sided signs shall be computed as 50% of the sum of the area of all faces of the sign.

Sign, Awning. A sign displayed on or attached flat against the surface or surfaces of an awning.

Sign, Bench. A sign located on a bench, seat, or similar structure which directs attention to a business, product, or service.

Sign, Banner. A flexible substrate on which copy or graphics may be displayed, and a sign utilizing the banner as its display surface.

Sign, Bicycle Parking. A sign indicating the location of bicycle parking facilities.

Sign, Billboard. See off-premise sign and outdoor advertising sign.

Sign, Canopy. A sign affixed to the visible surface(s) of an attached or freestanding canopy. For reference, see sec. 15.13-5.

Sign, Changeable. A sign with the capability of content change by means of manual or remote input, including signs which are:

Manually activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed manually.

Electrically activated. Changeable sign whose message copy or content can be changed by means of remote electrically energized on-off switching combinations of alphabetic or pictographic components arranged on a display surface. Illumination may be integral to the components, such as characterized by lamps or other light-emitting devices; or it may be from an external light source designed to reflect off the changeable component display. See also, electronic message sign or center.

Sign, Combination. A sign that is supported partly by a pole and partly by a building structure.

Sign, Copy. Those letters, numerals, figures, symbols, logos, and graphic elements comprising the content or message of a sign, excluding numerals identifying a street address only.

Sign, Development Complex. A freestanding sign identifying a multiple-occupancy development, such as a shopping center or planned industrial park, which is controlled by a single owner or landlord.

Sign, Directional. Any sign that is designed and erected for the purpose of providing direction and/or orientation for pedestrian or vehicular traffic.

Sign, Double-faced. A sign with two faces, back to back.

Sign, Drive-Through. A sign that is located adjacent to a drive through lane that accompanies an establishment with drive-through facilities.

Sign, Electric. Any sign activated or illuminated by means of electrical energy.

Sign, Electronic Message Sign or Center. An electrically activated changeable sign whose variable message capability can be electronically programmed.

Sign, Entry Door. A sign that appears on or adjacent to entry doors or in display windows, which may display information such as hours of operation, credit cards accepted, open/closed signs, and push/pull signs.

Sign, Exterior. Any sign placed outside a building.

Sign, Externally Illuminated. A sign that is lit by a source of light located outside the sign so that light shines onto the sign face.

Sign, Face. The surface upon, against or through which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, not including structural supports, architectural features of a building or sign structure, nonstructural or decorative trim, or any areas that are separated from the background surface upon which the sign copy is displayed by a distinct delineation, such as a reveal or border.

1. In the case of panel or cabinet type signs, the sign face shall include the entire area of the sign panel, cabinet, or face substrate upon which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated, but not open space between separate panels or cabinets.
2. In the case of sign structures with routed areas of sign copy, the sign face shall include the entire area of the surface that is routed, except where interrupted by a reveal, border, or a contrasting surface or color.
3. In the case of signs painted on a building, or individual letters or graphic elements affixed to a building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the sum of the geometric figures or combination of regular geometric figures drawn closest to the edge of the letters or separate graphic elements comprising the sign copy, but not the open space between separate groupings of sign copy on the same building or structure.
4. In the case of sign copy enclosed within a painted or illuminated border, or displayed on a background contrasting in color with the color of the building or structure, the sign face shall comprise the area within the contrasting background, or within the painted or illuminated border.

Sign, Fascia. See wall sign.

Sign, Flashing. See animated sign, electrically activated.

Sign, Freestanding. A sign principally supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not supported by a building, including signs supported by one or more columns, poles or braces placed in or upon the ground.

Sign, Government. A sign, such as a traffic control sign, public safety sign, emergency sign, or public notice that is erected by a governmental body or under the direction of such body.

Sign, Height. Sign height is the distance from grade to the top of the sign.

Sign, High Rise. A sign that exceeds the allowable height as defined in sec. 15.13-10 of this code.

Sign, Historical Marker. A sign displaying information of historic significance such as a building’s name, date of erection, or location.

Sign, Illuminated. A sign characterized by the use of artificial light, either projecting through its surface(s) (internally illuminated); or reflecting off its surface(s) (externally illuminated).

Sign, Inflatable Device. An advertising display that consists of flexible fabric or similar material that can be filled with air or gas and that may or may not be tethered to a specific location, and may move using a fan.

Sign, Interior. Any sign placed within a building, but not including window signs as defined by this ordinance. Interior signs, with the exception of window signs as defined, are not regulated by this section.

Sign, Low Rise. A sign that meets the height and area requirements of sec. 15.13-10 and that has a design featuring a decorative sign base and no pole.

Sign, Marquee. See canopy (attached).

Sign, Menu Board. A freestanding sign oriented to the drive-through lane for a restaurant that advertises the menu items available from the drive-through window.

Sign, Multiple-faced. A sign containing three or more faces.

Sign, Nameplate. A nameplate is a sign indicating the name and address of a building or the name of an occupant thereof and/or the practice of a permitted occupation therein.

Sign, Non-conforming. Any advertising structure or sign which was lawfully erected and maintained prior to such time as it came within the purview of this Code and any amendments thereto, and which fails to conform to all applicable regulations and restrictions of this Code.

Sign, Obscene. A sign that displays content in which the dominant theme of the material depicts prurient representations of sexual matters that affront contemporary community standards and do not possess redeeming social value.

Sign, Off-premise. See outdoor advertising sign.

Sign, On-premise. A sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of messages appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.

Sign, Outdoor Advertising. A permanent sign erected, maintained or used in the outdoor environment for the purpose of the display of commercial or noncommercial messages not appurtenant to the use of, products sold on, or the sale or lease of, the property on which it is displayed.

Sign, Painted Wall. A sign painted directly on the surface of the wall of a building, structure, or environmental feature.

Sign, Parking Lot. A sign regulating a parking lot, with a message such as “No Parking” or “Tow Zone,” that is oriented to an off-street parking area.

Sign, Pennant. A sign consisting of tapered flags made of lightweight material that are hung in a series and may or may not contain a message. Pennant signs do not include banner flag signs or flags.

Sign, Pole. See freestanding sign.

Sign, Portable. Any sign not permanently attached to the ground or to a building or building surface.

Sign, Projecting. A sign other than a wall sign that is attached to or projects more than 18 inches from a building face or wall or from a structure whose primary purpose is other than the support of a sign. For visual reference, see sec. 15.13-5.

Sign, Real Estate. A temporary sign advertising the sale, lease or rental of the property or premises upon which it is located.

Sign, Revolving. A sign that revolves 360 degrees about an axis. See also, animated sign, mechanically activated.

Sign, Roof. A sign mounted on, and supported by, the main roof portion of a building, or above the uppermost edge of a parapet wall of a building and which is wholly or partially supported by such a building. Signs mounted on mansard facades, pent eaves and architectural projections such as canopies or marquees shall not be considered to be roof signs.

Sign, Snipe. A sign affixed, hung, placed, applied, or posted to any tree, utility pole, hydrant, bench, fence, stake, trash receptacle, sidewalk, curb, parkway, street, median, or similar location, located on either public or private property, without the consent of the owner.

Sign Structure. Any structure supporting a sign. The area of the sign structure shall not exceed two times the sign area.

Sign, T-Frame. A movable sign placed on the ground and constructed in the shape of a “T” or some variation thereof.

Sign, Temporary. A sign intended to display either commercial or noncommercial messages of a transitory or temporary nature. Portable signs or any sign not permanently embedded in the ground, or not permanently affixed to a building or sign structure that is permanently embedded in the ground, are considered temporary signs.

Sign, Temporary Window. A sign affixed, hung, placed, applied, or posted on the interior or exterior of a building window or door that is intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.

Sign, Under Canopy or Marquee Sign. A sign attached to the underside of a canopy or marquee.

Sign, V Sign. Signs containing two faces of approximately equal size, erected upon common or separate structures, positioned in a “V” shape with an interior angle between faces of not more than 90 degrees with the distance between the sign faces not exceeding 5 feet at their closest point.

Sign, Vehicle. A sign attached to or placed on a vehicle that is prominently visible from the public right-of-way where the primary purpose of the vehicle is to advertise a business, product, or service rather than to be actively used or available for the daily function of the business to which the sign relates. Vehicle sign does not include a vehicle for sale sign advertising a vehicle for lease or sale.

Sign, Vehicle for Sale. A sign used to sell a new or used vehicle, often placed in the window of the vehicle.

Sign, Wall. A sign that is in any manner affixed to or painted onto any exterior wall of a building or structure or etched into exterior glass of a building or structure and that projects not more than 18 inches from the building or structure, including signs affixed to architectural projections from a building provided the copy area of such signs remains on a parallel plane to the face of the building facade or to the face or faces of the architectural projection to which it is affixed.

Sign, Warning. A sign that communicates a message of warning, danger, or caution, such as “Private Property,” “No Trespassing,” or “Beware of Dog.”

Sign, Window. A sign affixed to the surface of a window with its message intended to be visible to and readable from the public way or from adjacent property.

Significant Tree. Any deciduous, shade-variety tree or any evergreen tree with at least a 12-inch diameter as per standard diameter breast height. Trees listed in division 8.7 of the Code are not significant trees, regardless of size. (Amended 9/20/10 by Ord. No. 5349)

Sill. A projecting horizontal architectural feature, often located below a window or door.

Site Break. A structural or landscape device to interrupt long vistas and create visual interest in a site development.

Site Hardware. Includes but is not limited to street furniture, lighting standards, mailboxes, control boxes, newspaper boxes, roadway signs, and fire hydrants.

Solar Energy System. Has the meaning set forth in section 10 of the Homeowner’s Energy Policy Statement Act (765 ILCS 165-10).

Solar Energy System, Building-Integrated. A solar energy system that integrates photovoltaic modules into the building structure, such as the roof or facade, and that does not alter the relief of the roof.

Solar Energy System, Building-Mounted. An energy collection system that converts sunlight into electric or mechanical power for on-site use. Solar energy systems consist of photovoltaic panels or flat plate collectors, mounting devices, and associated control electronics. Building-mounted systems are attached to existing buildings and structures that are constructed for a use other than supporting the solar energy system.

Solar Energy System, Commercial. A solar energy system that is not a private solar energy system.

Solar Energy System, Ground-Mounted. A Solar energy system that is directly installed onto the ground and is not attached or affixed to any existing structure.

Solar Energy System, Owner. The owner of the property on which the solar energy system is located.

Solar Energy System, Private. A solar energy system that is an accessory structure and that is designed to serve through the electric meter only the occupants of the parcel on which it is located, and not for selling generated electricity.

Solar Installer, Qualified. A trained and qualified electrical professional who has the skills and knowledge related to the construction and operation of solar electrical equipment and installations and has received safety training on the hazards involved.

Special Use. A special use is a specific use of land or buildings, or both, described and permitted herein, subject to special provisions and which because of its unique characteristics cannot be properly classified as a permitted use. 

Stacking Space. A space designated as a waiting area, or queuing area, for vehicles at a drive-through establishment.

Stairs. A structure made up of a series of steps used to move from one level of a building or structure to another.

State Cannabis Act. The Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act, enacted under Public Act 101-27 of the Illinois General Assembly.

Stealth Design. A technique that reduces the visual impact of a structure by enclosing, camouflaging, screening, or obscuring the structure in relation to the architectural features of a larger building or structure.

Stoop. A structure made up of stairs and a landing used to access a building or structure.

Storage Area, Outdoor. An area for the storage of materials, equipment, machinery, or vehicles with a license plate class other than Class A or B used in the conduct of a business.

Storage, Self-Service. A facility used for the storage of personal property where individuals rent storage spaces of various sizes on an individual basis. May contain up to one residence for a site superintendent.

Storage Container, Temporary. A temporary, moveable structure that may be used for the storage of possessions or products prior to being transported to a storage facility, or for collecting waste and other material associated with the construction and renovation of a structure.

Storefront. Street-facing facade area below the floor plane of the second floor.

Story. A story is that portion of a building included between the upper surface of the floor and upper surface of the floor or roof next above. A basement shall not be counted as a story.

Street, Private. A private street is a privately owned lane, road or street, which affords the principal means of access to adjacent property.

Street, Public. A public street is a dedicated and accepted public right-of-way or other public way used and maintained by the Town of Normal which, in either case, affords the principal means of access to adjacent lots or property.

Street Hardware. Objects other than buildings, structures, and plantings located in streets and public ways and outside of buildings. Examples are lamp posts, utility poles, traffic lights, traffic signs, benches, litter containers, planting containers, letter boxes, and fire hydrants.

Streetscape. The scene as may be observed along a public street or way composed of natural and man-made components, including buildings, paving, planting, street hardware, and miscellaneous structures. 

Structural Soil. Soil that includes aggregate to support concrete sidewalks and asphalt parking lots while providing nourishment to plant roots.

Structure. A structure is anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires permanent or temporary location on or in the ground including, but not limited to, buildings, fences, gazebos, signs, billboards, supporting tower, and swimming pools.

Structure, Temporary. A structure that is intended to be in place for a limited period of time, which is typically constructed without a foundation.

Student Residence Hall. A dormitory, rooming house, or dwelling, the principal use and occupancy of which is to provide housing for persons:

1. attending college, university or other post secondary institutions,
2. employed by such college, university or other post secondary institution for the purpose of supervising persons identified in subsection (A) above, and such housing is owned or under the supervision and control of a college, university or other post secondary educational institution.

(Amended 9/16/96 by Ord. No. 4409)(Amended 9/21/98 by Ord. No. 4549)

Swimming Pool. An in-ground or above-ground basin of water constructed for swimming or wading.

Telecommunication Antenna. A device affixed to the ground, a building, or other structure which is capable of transmitting or receiving radio waves. Telecommunication antenna includes but is not limited to devices capable of transmitting or receiving radio waves supporting the following types of communications:

1. Television broadcast, multichannel multipoint distribution (wireless cable), direct broadcast satellites (DBS),
2. Radio broadcast (including AM, FM, and amateur radio antennas),
3. Wireless telecommunications, personal wireless services, commercial mobile services, cellular telephone services, specialized mobile radio services (SMR), unlicensed wireless services, and common carrier wireless exchange access services.
   

Telecommunication, Antenna Facility. The antenna, mast, pole, lattice work, structure, tower, building, equipment and other supporting material used to mount and operate an antenna.

Telecommunication, Commercial Mobile Services. Mobile services that are for-profit, are available to the public or a substantial portion of the public and provide subscribers with the ability to access or receive calls from the public switched telephone network – examples are personal communication services, cellular radio mobile service and paging.

Telecommunication, Height. The vertical measurement from the ground to the vertical apex of the telecommunication antenna facility.

Telecommunication, Personal Communication Services. A digital, radio-based service that transmits and receives low-powered electronic signals through networks of linked transmitter/receiver sites with each transmitter/receiver or base station covering smaller area.

Telecommunication, Personal Wireless Facilities. Transmitters, receivers, antenna facilities and other types of installation used for the provision of personal wireless services.

Telecommunication, Personal Wireless Services. Commercial mobile services, cellular telephone services, specialized mobile radio services (SMR), unlicensed wireless services, and common carrier wireless exchange access services, as now or hereafter defined in Title 47 United States Code, Section 323(C)(7)(c).

Telecommunication, Radio Broadcast. Traditional AM and FM radio broadcasts and amateur radio broadcasts (HAM Radio).

Telecommunication, Satellite Dish Antenna. A telecommunication antenna shaped like a bowl or dish and used to receive wireless transmission of radio, data, or video from a satellite orbiting the earth.

Telecommunication, Unlicensed Wireless Service. The offering of telecommunication services using duly authorized devices which do not require individual licenses by Federal Communication Commission but does not mean the provision of direct-to-home satellite services.

Train Station. A facility used for boarding and alighting passenger trains. Train stations may include platforms, station houses, benches, walkways, signaling equipment, and other structures necessary for passenger rail travel. Train stations do not include facilities for storing or repairing railroad vehicles or equipment, or facilities for loading and unloading freight.

Transom. A window above an opening such as a door or window built on a horizontal crossbar; often hinged on the top to swing open for ventilation.

Tree Canopy Coverage. The proportion of a parking lot that is shaded by trees.

Tree Protection Zone. An area around a tree in which no construction activity may take place. The area within the tree protection zone is a circle with its center at the center of the tree trunk. The circle’s radius is calculated as the diameter of the tree times 1 foot, where the diameter is calculated 4 1/2 feet off the ground.

Treehouse. An accessory structure supported by one or more trees. Treehouse does not include recreation equipment.

Trellis. A vertical latticework structure used in a garden to support climbing plants.

Unified Control. Unified control is the combination of 2 or more tracts of land either through unified ownership or other arrangement, wherein each owner has agreed to allow use and develop their tracts as a single lot under the provisions of the ordinance applicable to planned unit developments.

Use. The use of property is the purpose or activity for which the land, or building thereon, is designed, arranged, or intended, or for which it is occupied or maintained, and shall include any manner of performance of such activity with respect to the performance standards of this ordinance.

Use, Permitted. A permitted use is a use which may be lawfully established in a particular district or districts, provided it conforms with all requirements and regulations of such district.

Use, Principal. A principal use is a primary use of land or buildings as distinguished from a subordinate or accessory use. A principal use may be either permitted or special.

Use, Temporary. A use that is intended to be in place for a limited period of time.

Utility. The use of land for infrastructure facilities including, but not limited to, services for gas, electricity, water treatment and storage, sewage treatment and storage, telephone, cable television, data, cellular, and fiber-optic cable.

Utility Hardware. Devices such as poles, crossarms, transformers and vaults, gas pressure regulating assemblies, hydrants, and curb boxes that are used for water, gas, oil, sewer, and electrical services to a building or a project.

Utility Service. Any device including wire, pipe, and conduit which carries gas, water, electricity, oil, and communications into a building or development.

Utilitarian Structure. A structure or enclosure relating to mechanical or electrical services to a building or development.

Variance/Variation. A variation is a deviation from the bulk requirements of the Zoning Ordinance where such variation will not be contrary to the public interest and where, due to conditions peculiar to the property and not the direct result of the actions of the owner, a literal enforcement of the Ordinance would result in unnecessary hardship.

Vehicle. Every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is, or may be, transported or drawn upon a highway, except devices moved by human power or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks. (Added 12/17/01 by Ord. 4760 – Effective 4/1/02)

Vehicle, Commercial. A motor vehicle operated for the transportation of people or material as part of a commercial enterprise.

Vehicle Body Shop. Auto body work, straightening of auto body parts, and similar activities.

Vehicle Fueling Station. A vehicle fueling station means buildings and premises where vehicles may be fueled with gasoline, diesel, electricity, compressed natural gas, or other alternative fuels. A vehicle fueling station primarily serves passenger vehicles and may have an attached convenience store and/or car wash. One outdoor vacuum may be provided.

Vehicle Operations Facility. A facility for the dispatch, storage, and maintenance of emergency medical vehicles, taxis, school buses, and livery vehicles. Vehicle operations facility does not include vehicle rental, vehicle repair and/or service, motor vehicle sales, or government facilities that dispatch, store, and maintain fire, police, public works, and other municipal vehicles.

Vehicle Rental. An establishment that rents vehicles, including incidental facilities for parking and servicing such vehicles. Vehicle rental does not include vehicle operations facility.

Vehicle Service and Repair Shop. A vehicle repair shop means buildings and premises where oil, grease, batteries, tires and vehicle accessories may be supplied at retail. In addition, any of the following services may be rendered and sales made:

1. Sale and servicing of spark plugs, batteries, and distributors, and distributor parts;
2. Tire servicing and repair, but no recapping or regrooving; 
3. Replacement of mufflers and tail pipes, water hose, fan belts, brake fluid, light bulbs, fuses, floor mats, seat covers, windshield wipers and wiper blades, grease retainers, wheel bearings, mirrors and the like; 
4. Radiator cleaning and flushing; 
5. Washing and polishing, and sale of automotive washing and polishing materials; 
6. Greasing and lubrication; 
7. Providing and repairing fuel pumps, oil pumps, and lines; 
8. Servicing and repair of carburetors; 
9. Emergency wiring repairs; 
10. Adjusting and repairing brakes; 
11. Minor motor adjustments not involving the removal of the head or crankcase or racing the motor.

Activities permissible at a vehicle service and repair shop do not include the storage of vehicles nor work involving noise, glare, fumes, smoke, or other characteristics to an extent greater than normally found in vehicle service stations. A vehicle service and repair shop may include as an accessory use the sale of used vehicles as long as said vehicles are stored on a hard surface and not impeding or occupying required parking on the site.

Vehicle Sales. An establishment that sells or leases new or used motor vehicles, including incidental facilities for parking and servicing such vehicles.

Vehicle Storage. Storage of licensed and operable vehicles.

Vocational School. A facility that offers instruction in industrial, clerical, commercial, managerial, building trades, or automotive skills. Vocational school does not include elementary, middle, or secondary school or college or university.

Warehouse. A warehouse is a structure, part thereof, or area used principally for the storage of goods and merchandise.

Warehousing, Storage, or Distribution Facility. An establishment that stores and transports products or equipment, including, but not limited to warehouses, fulfillment centers, moving companies, storage facilities, freight transportation, and truck terminals.

Welfare Agency. A welfare agency is an institution, public or private not-for-profit facility, that provides care and/or services concerning the welfare and improvement for persons of all ages.

Wholesale Establishment. A wholesale establishment is a business establishment engaged in selling to retailers or jobbers rather than consumers.

Wind-Energy Facility. An electric-generating facility, the purpose of which is to supply electricity, that consists of 1 or more wind turbines and other accessory structures and buildings, including substations, meteorological towers, electrical infrastructure, transmission lines, and other appurtenant structures and facilities.

Wind-Energy Facility, Facility Owner. Any person who has an equity interest in the wind-energy facility.

Wind-Energy Facility, Hub Height. The distance measured from the surface of the tower foundation to the height of the wind turbine hub, to which the blade is attached.

Wind-Energy Facility, Landowner. The person who owns the property on which the wind-energy facility is located.

Wind-Energy Facility, Large. A wind-energy facility that includes one or more wind turbines with a turbine height of greater than 120 feet but not exceeding 510 feet.

Wind-Energy Facility, Nameplate Capacity. The maximum output rating of a wind generator.

Wind-Energy Facility, Non-Participating Landowner. Any landowner except those on whose property all or a portion of a wind-energy facility is located under an agreement with the facility owner or operator.

Wind-Energy Facility, Operator. The person responsible for the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the wind-energy facility.

Wind-Energy Facility, Small. A wind-energy facility that includes a wind turbine with a turbine height of 120 feet or less.

Wind-Energy Facility, Small Roof-Mounted. A small wind-energy facility that is attached to a structure’s roof.

Wind-Energy Facility, Small Tower-Mounted. A small wind-energy facility that is mounted on a tower.

Wind-Energy Facility, Upwind Turbine. A turbine that has the rotor blades facing into the wind source direction.

Wind Turbine. A wind-energy-conversion system that converts wind energy into electricity through the use of a wind turbine generator, and includes the nacelle, rotor, tower, and pad transformer.

Wind Turbine Height. The distance measured from the surface of the tower foundation to the highest point of the turbine rotor plane.

Window. An opening in the wall of a building that is made of transparent material.

Yard. A yard is an open space, on the same lot with a building or structure, unoccupied and unobstructed from its lowest level to the sky, except as otherwise permitted in sec 15.4-5 of this Code.

Yard, Corner Side. A corner side yard is that area between the setback lines, the side lot line, and rear lot line, which area faces the street.

Yard, Front. In an interior lot, a front yard is that yard, required or otherwise, extending along the full length of the front lot line between the side lot lines from the front line of the building or structure to the front lot line. In a corner lot, the front yard is that yard, required or otherwise, extending along the full length of the front lot line adjacent to both streets (public or private) from the front line of the building or structure to the front lot line.

Yard, Interior Side. An interior side yard which is located immediately adjacent to another lot or to any alley separating such side yard from another lot.

Yard, Rear. In an interior lot, a rear yard is that yard, required or otherwise, extending along the full length of the rear lot line between the side lot lines from the rear line of the building or structure to the rear property line. In a corner lot, a rear yard is that yard, required or otherwise, between the front and corner side yard setback lines, the side lot line, and the rear lot line.

Yard, Side. A side yard is that yard, required or otherwise, extending along the side yard between the front yard and the rear yard from the side line of the building or structure to the side property line.

Zoning Code Administrator. The Zoning Code Administrator is the Town staff member designated by the Town Manager as the person responsible for interpreting and enforcing the zoning code.

Zoning District. A zoning district is a section or sections of incorporated territory of the Town of Normal for which the regulations and requirements governing use, lot and bulk or buildings and premises are uniform.

(Section 15.3-2 Amended 8/20/90 by Ordinance No. 3925)