Owosso City Zoning Code

ARTICLE IV

RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS IN GENERAL

Residential Districts: R-1, R-2, and RM

Sec. 38-81.- Intent.

(1)

Intent of the Residential Zoning regulations is to:

(a)

Contribute to quality of life by protecting stable neighborhoods and increase availability of attainable and diverse housing options;

(b)

Maintain distinct neighborhoods in Owosso; existing neighborhoods have their own character influenced by size of homes, architecture, density, and layout of streets;

(c)

Increase availability of attainable and workforce housing;

(d)

Reduce barriers that limit market's ability to build small, lower cost homes;

(e)

Redevelop old, low density buildings into new higher density building; and

(f)

Ensure additions and new construction (infill) be compatible with the existing scale, height, massing and setbacks of existing buildings in the surrounding neighborhood.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-82. - Residential use table.

In the Residential Districts, land, buildings, and other structures shall be used only for one (1) or more of the uses specified in the table below.

Uses denoted by a "P" are permitted by right, "CLU" as permitted uses with use conditions or standards, "A" as accessory to a principal use, and "SLU" are considered special land uses and may be approved by the Planning Commission subject to the applicable general and specific standards in Article XI, Special Land Uses. Additional applicable use standards are listed in the column at right.

	R-1	R-2	RM	Use Standards
Residential
Single-family detached family dwellings	P	P
Single-family detached dwelling divided into up to 4 dwelling units	P	P	P
Two-family attached dwelling unit (duplex)	P	P
Three-family attached dwelling unit (triplex)	P	P	P
Four-family attached dwelling unit (quadplex)	P	P	P
Multi- unit family residential dwelling			P
Prefabricated/Modular housing units	P	P
Accessory Dwelling Unit over Garage	P	P
Accessory Building and Structure	P	P
Small Inn/B&B	SLU	SLU		Section 38-158(3)
Adult foster care small group home, in accordance with the provisions of Section 38-27;	P	P	P
Child or adult care center, in accordance with provisions of Section 38-27	P	P	P
Recreation
Private noncommercial recreation			SLU	Section 38-152
Golf Course	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(8)
Institutional, Educational, and Assembly Uses
Places of assembly, including places of worship; community center	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(13)
Hospital	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(10)
Schools- Primary, Secondary, Collegiate, Training Centers, private and public	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(12)
Public buildings/utilities	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)
Essential public service buildings and structures	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-83. - Density and lot area.

Density and Lot Area per Dwelling Unit

(1)

Unless otherwise specified herein, minimum lot sizes, and minimum lot areas per dwelling unit shall be the controlling factors in determining dwelling unit yields.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-84. - Nonconforming lot use for single, two (2), three (3), and four (4) unit-living.

In the R-1 and R-2 districts, in which a single-unit living detached dwelling or two-unit, three-unit, or four unit-living attached structure is allowed as a permitted use, notwithstanding the regulations imposed by any other provisions of this chapter, a single-unit living detached dwelling or two-unit, three-unit, or four unit-living attached structure, which complies with the restrictions below may be erected on a nonconforming lot that:

(1)

Has less than the prescribed minimum lot area or width; and

(2)

Is shown by a recorded plan or deed to have been a lot of record owned separately and individually from adjoining tracts of land at a time when the creation of a lot or tract of such area, width, and depth at such location would not have been prohibited by any zoning or other ordinance.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-85. - Bulk regulations for single family residential.

Single-Family Detached Dwelling and Two-Family Attached (Duplex)¹
	R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	6,000 sf	4,500 sf
Lot width (min)	50'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)	10'	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'	5'
From rear lot line	35'	35'
Height
Principal building (max)	2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)	20'	20'
Building Area
First floor minimum	700 sq. ft.	550 sq. ft.
Maximum Percentage of Lot Covered by Buildings
	50%	55%

Multi-Unit Attached Dwelling Units: Three-Family Attached (Triplex) Four-Family Attached (Quadplex)²
		R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Net lot area per unit (min)		4,500 sf	3,000 sf
Lot width (min)		60'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)		10'	10'
From side lot line (min)		5'	5'
From rear lot line		20'	20'
Height
Principal building (max)		2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)		20'	20'
Building Area
Minimum floor area per dwelling unit	Efficiency	450 sq. ft.	350 sq. ft.
	One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.	450 sq. ft.
	Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.	600 sq. ft.
	Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.	800 sq. ft.
	Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Percent of Lot Covered by Buildings
		60%	65%

Footnotes:

¹In the R-1 and R-2 districts, the rules of Section 38-54, Residential development regulations for infill housing for existing neighborhoods, may apply.

²The first floor minimum area shall not include areas of breezeways, unenclosed porches, terraces, attached garages, or attached sheds.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-86. - Setbacks and yards for single family residential.

In all Residential Districts there shall be on every lot a front yard, the depth of which, except as provided in this section, shall be not less than ten (10) feet in the R-1 or R-2 district. Where a front yard of greater or lesser depth than specified exists in front of a dwelling, on one (1) side of a street in any block in the R-1 or R-2 district, the depth of the front yard of any building thereafter erected or placed on any lot in such block shall be not less, but need not be greater, than the average depth of the front yards of existing dwellings.

(1)

In all Residential Districts, the width of side yards which abut upon a street on the same side or on the opposite side of the same block, upon which other residential lots front, shall not be less than the required front yard setback for homes which front upon such side street

(2)

In all Residential Districts, the required front yard setback shall not be used for off-street parking and shall remain as open space, unoccupied and unobstructed from the ground upward, except for landscaping, plant materials or vehicle access drives.

(3)

Where an existing single-family residence or attached garage extends between three (3) and four (4) feet of a side lot line, an addition or extension to such residence or attached garage may also be set off from such lot line a distance equivalent to the established setback line of the residence or attached garage.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-87. - Bulk regulations for multiple family residential.

Multi-Unit Living (more than 4 units)
	RM-1
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	7,500 sf
Width (min) ¹	80'
Outdoor amenity area (min)	10%
Lot area per unit (min)	2,500 sf
Building/Structure Setbacks²
From front lot line street	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'
From rear lot line (min)	20'
Parking Setbacks³
From front lot line (min)	10'
From side and rear lot line (min)	5'
Height
Principal building	2 stories minimum 4 stories maximum
Minimum square feet per dwelling unit
Efficiency	450 sq. ft.
One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.
Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.
Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.
Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Building Area Covered
	60%

Footnotes

¹ Lot width shall be measured at front setback line and shall not include any encumbrances, such as easements or other such restrictions.

² Cornices, eaves, and gutters may project two (2) feet into the required yard. Attached or unattached decks and porches shall comply with required front, side, and rear setbacks.

³ Parking setbacks shall not apply to driveways serving individual dwelling units or shared between multiple dwelling units.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-88. - Residential building design.

(1)

General Residential Design Standards.

The general standards below apply to all newly constructed residential buildings. Section 38-59, Residential development regulations for infill housing for existing neighborhoods, may apply and waive some of the requirements below.

1. Fenestration	The primary facade shall have no less than 25% of the total facade comprised of windows and doorways. First story windows shall be taller than second story windows.
2. Facade Articulation	Blank walls over 30' in length are not permitted.
3. Front Porch or Stoop	a. Front porches and stoops shall not extend into the public right-of-way. b. Front porches may be covered by a roof or an open stoop. c. Finished floor height shall be no more than 7 inches below the first interior finished floor level of the building. d. Each residential unit with a separate entrance shall include a stoop of not more than 5' deep and 6' wide (not including steps or ramp) or a porch between 7' and 9' deep.
4. Allowed building materials	Primary Facade	a. Brick (natural, glazed) b. Stone(natural, synthetic) c. Engineered or Fiber Cement Board Siding (e.g. Hardie Panel or LP Smart Side) d. Metal siding e. Wood Siding (natural, composite) f. Vinyl Siding
	Secondary Facade and up to 50% of Primary Facade	a. Stucco (traditional cementitious, EIFS) b. Architectural Metal Panel (insulated, composite) c. Decorative cast concrete screens
5. Garage/Parking	a. Garages or carports may only occupy a maximum of 40% of the front facade. b. Temporary carports are not permitted. See also Article 3, Division 1 Accessory Structures c. Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines. d. Construction of any new off-street parking and loading areas shall be surfaced with asphalt, bituminous or concrete pavement, brick or other permanent material as approved by the City. All parking areas shall be graded and drained to dispose of all surface water.

(2)

Building Type Standards

In addition to the General Standards, the following building standards apply to specific residential building types according to permitted uses as defined in the District Articles:

(a)

Single-Family Detached (applicable districts: R-1 and R-2)

Description. The Single-Family building type consists of a detached structure incorporating one (1) unit.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(2)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) primary entrance facing the front lot line. A door may face a side lot line when the porch or stoop faces the front lot line.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

Buildings are required to include a stoop, porch, or portico.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(4)

Garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(b)

Duplex/Triplex (applicable districts: Duplex: R-1 and R-2; Duplex and Triplex (RM)

Description. The Duplex building type consists of structures that contain two (2) dwelling units stacked or placed side by side with each unit having access directly to the street. This type has the appearance of a medium-sized family home and is appropriately scaled to fit within primarily single-family neighborhoods.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line. Additional attached units may have doors on the side.

(2)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

A porch or stoop is strongly encouraged.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(4)

Parking areas shall not be located in any required front or side street yard, except in the case of a dwelling with a driveway leading to a garage or parking area the drive may be used for parking.

(5)

Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines.

(6)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(c)

Quad: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(d)

Triplex/Quadplex Townhouses: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Description. The Townhouse building type consists of structures that contain three (3) or four (4) dwelling units placed side by side. Townhouses are typically narrow, 2-story residential buildings with each unit having access directly to the street.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Each dwelling shall provide a separate pedestrian entryway facing the front lot line with direct access to the sidewalk by way of a front porch or stoop with steps.

(2)

Primary entry for each unit or separated occupancy must face onto and connect to the primary street. The corner unit may face the secondary street. Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Garages or carports must be accessed from the rear yard via an alley.

(2)

Parking may be provided on a driveway, garage, or carport located in the rear yard.

(3)

Articulation. Adjoined dwelling units shall be distinguishable through a change in plane, change in material, or architectural expression.

(e)

Manufactured housing units: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2)

Any manufactured/modular single-family dwelling, constructed and erected on a lot outside a manufactured housing development, shall be permitted only if it complies with all the following requirements:

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, it must either be:

(1)

New and certified by the manufacturer and/or appropriate inspection agency as meeting the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, as amended, or any similar successor or replacement standards which may be promulgated.

(2)

Used and certified by the manufacturer and/or appropriate inspection agency as meeting the standards referenced in subsection (1) above, and found, on inspection by the Zoning Administrator or a designee, to be in excellent condition and safe and fit for residential occupancy.

(3)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, the manufactured home shall be installed with the wheels and tongue removed.

(4)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, it shall be installed pursuant to the manufacturer's setup instructions and shall be secured to the building site by an anchoring system or device complying with the rules and regulations, as amended, of the Michigan Manufactured Home Commission, or any similar or successor agency having regulatory responsibility for manufactured home parks or manufactured housing communities.

(5)

The dwelling unit shall comply with all applicable building, electrical, plumbing, fire, energy, and other similar codes adopted by the City, provided, that where a dwelling unit is required by law to comply with any Federal or State standards or regulations for construction, and where such standards or regulations for construction are stricter than those imposed by City codes, then and such Federal or State standards or regulations shall apply. Appropriate evidence of compliance with such standards or regulations shall be provided to the Zoning Administrator.

(6)

The dwelling unit shall comply with all restrictions and requirements of this chapter, including, without limitation, the minimum lot area, minimum lot width, minimum residential floor area, yard requirements, lot percent coverage and maximum building height requirements of the zoning district in which it is located.

(7)

The dwelling unit shall have a minimum horizontal dimension across any side or rear elevation of twenty (20) feet.

(8)

The dwelling unit shall be placed on the lot so that the portions nearest the principal street frontage are at least thirty (30) feet in dimension parallel to the street.

(9)

The dwelling unit shall be firmly attached to a permanent continuous foundation constructed on the building site. Such foundation must have a wall of the same perimeter dimensions as the dwelling unit and be constructed of such materials and type as required by the building code for on-site constructed single-family dwellings. If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, its foundation and skirting shall fully enclose the chassis, undercarriage, and towing mechanism.

(10)

A storage area within a building not less than one hundred twenty (120) square feet in an area shall be provided. This storage area may consist of a basement, closet area, attic, or attached garage in a principal building, or in a detached accessory building which is in compliance with all other applicable provisions of this chapter pertaining to accessory buildings.

(11)

Permanently attached steps or porch areas at least three (3) feet in width shall be provided where there is an elevation difference greater than eight (8) inches between the first floor entry of the dwelling unit and the adjacent grade. Railings shall be provided in accordance with the City building code.

(12)

The main roof of the dwelling unit shall have a minimum pitch of four (4) feet of rise for each twelve (12) feet of horizontal run.

(13)

The exterior finish of the dwelling unit shall not cause glare or reflection that is greater than that from siding coated with clean, white, gloss exterior enamel.

(14)

The dwelling unit shall not contain any additions of rooms or other areas which are not permitted and constructed with similar quality workmanship and materials as the original structure, including permanent attachment to the principal structure and construction of a foundation as required herein.

(15)

The above standards may be modified by the Zoning Administrator upon determination that the proposed design is consistent with the predominant standard in the surrounding area.

(f)

Flats: (applicable district: RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Owosso City Zoning Code

ARTICLE IV

RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS IN GENERAL

Residential Districts: R-1, R-2, and RM

Sec. 38-81.- Intent.

(1)

Intent of the Residential Zoning regulations is to:

(a)

Contribute to quality of life by protecting stable neighborhoods and increase availability of attainable and diverse housing options;

(b)

Maintain distinct neighborhoods in Owosso; existing neighborhoods have their own character influenced by size of homes, architecture, density, and layout of streets;

(c)

Increase availability of attainable and workforce housing;

(d)

Reduce barriers that limit market's ability to build small, lower cost homes;

(e)

Redevelop old, low density buildings into new higher density building; and

(f)

Ensure additions and new construction (infill) be compatible with the existing scale, height, massing and setbacks of existing buildings in the surrounding neighborhood.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-82. - Residential use table.

In the Residential Districts, land, buildings, and other structures shall be used only for one (1) or more of the uses specified in the table below.

	R-1	R-2	RM	Use Standards
Residential
Single-family detached family dwellings	P	P
Single-family detached dwelling divided into up to 4 dwelling units	P	P	P
Two-family attached dwelling unit (duplex)	P	P
Three-family attached dwelling unit (triplex)	P	P	P
Four-family attached dwelling unit (quadplex)	P	P	P
Multi- unit family residential dwelling			P
Prefabricated/Modular housing units	P	P
Accessory Dwelling Unit over Garage	P	P
Accessory Building and Structure	P	P
Small Inn/B&B	SLU	SLU		Section 38-158(3)
Adult foster care small group home, in accordance with the provisions of Section 38-27;	P	P	P
Child or adult care center, in accordance with provisions of Section 38-27	P	P	P
Recreation
Private noncommercial recreation			SLU	Section 38-152
Golf Course	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(8)
Institutional, Educational, and Assembly Uses
Places of assembly, including places of worship; community center	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(13)
Hospital	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(10)
Schools- Primary, Secondary, Collegiate, Training Centers, private and public	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(12)
Public buildings/utilities	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)
Essential public service buildings and structures	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-83. - Density and lot area.

Density and Lot Area per Dwelling Unit

(1)

Unless otherwise specified herein, minimum lot sizes, and minimum lot areas per dwelling unit shall be the controlling factors in determining dwelling unit yields.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-84. - Nonconforming lot use for single, two (2), three (3), and four (4) unit-living.

(1)

Has less than the prescribed minimum lot area or width; and

(2)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-85. - Bulk regulations for single family residential.

Single-Family Detached Dwelling and Two-Family Attached (Duplex)¹
	R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	6,000 sf	4,500 sf
Lot width (min)	50'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)	10'	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'	5'
From rear lot line	35'	35'
Height
Principal building (max)	2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)	20'	20'
Building Area
First floor minimum	700 sq. ft.	550 sq. ft.
Maximum Percentage of Lot Covered by Buildings
	50%	55%

Multi-Unit Attached Dwelling Units: Three-Family Attached (Triplex) Four-Family Attached (Quadplex)²
		R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Net lot area per unit (min)		4,500 sf	3,000 sf
Lot width (min)		60'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)		10'	10'
From side lot line (min)		5'	5'
From rear lot line		20'	20'
Height
Principal building (max)		2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)		20'	20'
Building Area
Minimum floor area per dwelling unit	Efficiency	450 sq. ft.	350 sq. ft.
	One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.	450 sq. ft.
	Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.	600 sq. ft.
	Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.	800 sq. ft.
	Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Percent of Lot Covered by Buildings
		60%	65%

Footnotes:

¹In the R-1 and R-2 districts, the rules of Section 38-54, Residential development regulations for infill housing for existing neighborhoods, may apply.

²The first floor minimum area shall not include areas of breezeways, unenclosed porches, terraces, attached garages, or attached sheds.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-86. - Setbacks and yards for single family residential.

(1)

(2)

(3)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-87. - Bulk regulations for multiple family residential.

Multi-Unit Living (more than 4 units)
	RM-1
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	7,500 sf
Width (min) ¹	80'
Outdoor amenity area (min)	10%
Lot area per unit (min)	2,500 sf
Building/Structure Setbacks²
From front lot line street	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'
From rear lot line (min)	20'
Parking Setbacks³
From front lot line (min)	10'
From side and rear lot line (min)	5'
Height
Principal building	2 stories minimum 4 stories maximum
Minimum square feet per dwelling unit
Efficiency	450 sq. ft.
One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.
Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.
Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.
Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Building Area Covered
	60%

Footnotes

¹ Lot width shall be measured at front setback line and shall not include any encumbrances, such as easements or other such restrictions.

² Cornices, eaves, and gutters may project two (2) feet into the required yard. Attached or unattached decks and porches shall comply with required front, side, and rear setbacks.

³ Parking setbacks shall not apply to driveways serving individual dwelling units or shared between multiple dwelling units.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-88. - Residential building design.

(1)

General Residential Design Standards.

1. Fenestration	The primary facade shall have no less than 25% of the total facade comprised of windows and doorways. First story windows shall be taller than second story windows.
2. Facade Articulation	Blank walls over 30' in length are not permitted.
3. Front Porch or Stoop	a. Front porches and stoops shall not extend into the public right-of-way. b. Front porches may be covered by a roof or an open stoop. c. Finished floor height shall be no more than 7 inches below the first interior finished floor level of the building. d. Each residential unit with a separate entrance shall include a stoop of not more than 5' deep and 6' wide (not including steps or ramp) or a porch between 7' and 9' deep.
4. Allowed building materials	Primary Facade	a. Brick (natural, glazed) b. Stone(natural, synthetic) c. Engineered or Fiber Cement Board Siding (e.g. Hardie Panel or LP Smart Side) d. Metal siding e. Wood Siding (natural, composite) f. Vinyl Siding
	Secondary Facade and up to 50% of Primary Facade	a. Stucco (traditional cementitious, EIFS) b. Architectural Metal Panel (insulated, composite) c. Decorative cast concrete screens
5. Garage/Parking	a. Garages or carports may only occupy a maximum of 40% of the front facade. b. Temporary carports are not permitted. See also Article 3, Division 1 Accessory Structures c. Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines. d. Construction of any new off-street parking and loading areas shall be surfaced with asphalt, bituminous or concrete pavement, brick or other permanent material as approved by the City. All parking areas shall be graded and drained to dispose of all surface water.

(2)

Building Type Standards

In addition to the General Standards, the following building standards apply to specific residential building types according to permitted uses as defined in the District Articles:

(a)

Single-Family Detached (applicable districts: R-1 and R-2)

Description. The Single-Family building type consists of a detached structure incorporating one (1) unit.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(2)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) primary entrance facing the front lot line. A door may face a side lot line when the porch or stoop faces the front lot line.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

Buildings are required to include a stoop, porch, or portico.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(4)

Garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(b)

Duplex/Triplex (applicable districts: Duplex: R-1 and R-2; Duplex and Triplex (RM)

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line. Additional attached units may have doors on the side.

(2)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

A porch or stoop is strongly encouraged.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(4)

Parking areas shall not be located in any required front or side street yard, except in the case of a dwelling with a driveway leading to a garage or parking area the drive may be used for parking.

(5)

Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines.

(6)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(c)

Quad: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(d)

Triplex/Quadplex Townhouses: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Each dwelling shall provide a separate pedestrian entryway facing the front lot line with direct access to the sidewalk by way of a front porch or stoop with steps.

(2)

Primary entry for each unit or separated occupancy must face onto and connect to the primary street. The corner unit may face the secondary street. Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Garages or carports must be accessed from the rear yard via an alley.

(2)

Parking may be provided on a driveway, garage, or carport located in the rear yard.

(3)

Articulation. Adjoined dwelling units shall be distinguishable through a change in plane, change in material, or architectural expression.

(e)

Manufactured housing units: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, it must either be:

(1)

(2)

(3)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, the manufactured home shall be installed with the wheels and tongue removed.

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

The dwelling unit shall have a minimum horizontal dimension across any side or rear elevation of twenty (20) feet.

(8)

The dwelling unit shall be placed on the lot so that the portions nearest the principal street frontage are at least thirty (30) feet in dimension parallel to the street.

(9)

(10)

(11)

(12)

The main roof of the dwelling unit shall have a minimum pitch of four (4) feet of rise for each twelve (12) feet of horizontal run.

(13)

The exterior finish of the dwelling unit shall not cause glare or reflection that is greater than that from siding coated with clean, white, gloss exterior enamel.

(14)

(15)

The above standards may be modified by the Zoning Administrator upon determination that the proposed design is consistent with the predominant standard in the surrounding area.

(f)

Flats: (applicable district: RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Owosso City Zoning Code

ARTICLE IV

RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS IN GENERAL

Residential Districts: R-1, R-2, and RM

Sec. 38-81.- Intent.

(1)

Intent of the Residential Zoning regulations is to:

(a)

Contribute to quality of life by protecting stable neighborhoods and increase availability of attainable and diverse housing options;

(b)

Maintain distinct neighborhoods in Owosso; existing neighborhoods have their own character influenced by size of homes, architecture, density, and layout of streets;

(c)

Increase availability of attainable and workforce housing;

(d)

Reduce barriers that limit market's ability to build small, lower cost homes;

(e)

Redevelop old, low density buildings into new higher density building; and

(f)

Ensure additions and new construction (infill) be compatible with the existing scale, height, massing and setbacks of existing buildings in the surrounding neighborhood.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-82. - Residential use table.

In the Residential Districts, land, buildings, and other structures shall be used only for one (1) or more of the uses specified in the table below.

	R-1	R-2	RM	Use Standards
Residential
Single-family detached family dwellings	P	P
Single-family detached dwelling divided into up to 4 dwelling units	P	P	P
Two-family attached dwelling unit (duplex)	P	P
Three-family attached dwelling unit (triplex)	P	P	P
Four-family attached dwelling unit (quadplex)	P	P	P
Multi- unit family residential dwelling			P
Prefabricated/Modular housing units	P	P
Accessory Dwelling Unit over Garage	P	P
Accessory Building and Structure	P	P
Small Inn/B&B	SLU	SLU		Section 38-158(3)
Adult foster care small group home, in accordance with the provisions of Section 38-27;	P	P	P
Child or adult care center, in accordance with provisions of Section 38-27	P	P	P
Recreation
Private noncommercial recreation			SLU	Section 38-152
Golf Course	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(8)
Institutional, Educational, and Assembly Uses
Places of assembly, including places of worship; community center	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(13)
Hospital	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(10)
Schools- Primary, Secondary, Collegiate, Training Centers, private and public	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(12)
Public buildings/utilities	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)
Essential public service buildings and structures	SLU	SLU	SLU	Section 38-158(6)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-83. - Density and lot area.

Density and Lot Area per Dwelling Unit

(1)

Unless otherwise specified herein, minimum lot sizes, and minimum lot areas per dwelling unit shall be the controlling factors in determining dwelling unit yields.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-84. - Nonconforming lot use for single, two (2), three (3), and four (4) unit-living.

(1)

Has less than the prescribed minimum lot area or width; and

(2)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-85. - Bulk regulations for single family residential.

Single-Family Detached Dwelling and Two-Family Attached (Duplex)¹
	R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	6,000 sf	4,500 sf
Lot width (min)	50'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)	10'	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'	5'
From rear lot line	35'	35'
Height
Principal building (max)	2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)	20'	20'
Building Area
First floor minimum	700 sq. ft.	550 sq. ft.
Maximum Percentage of Lot Covered by Buildings
	50%	55%

Multi-Unit Attached Dwelling Units: Three-Family Attached (Triplex) Four-Family Attached (Quadplex)²
		R-1	R-2
Lot Dimensions
Net lot area per unit (min)		4,500 sf	3,000 sf
Lot width (min)		60'	45'
Principal Building Setbacks
From front lot line (min)		10'	10'
From side lot line (min)		5'	5'
From rear lot line		20'	20'
Height
Principal building (max)		2 ½ stories or 30'	2 ½ stories or 30'
Accessory structure (max)		20'	20'
Building Area
Minimum floor area per dwelling unit	Efficiency	450 sq. ft.	350 sq. ft.
	One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.	450 sq. ft.
	Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.	600 sq. ft.
	Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.	800 sq. ft.
	Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Percent of Lot Covered by Buildings
		60%	65%

Footnotes:

¹In the R-1 and R-2 districts, the rules of Section 38-54, Residential development regulations for infill housing for existing neighborhoods, may apply.

²The first floor minimum area shall not include areas of breezeways, unenclosed porches, terraces, attached garages, or attached sheds.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-86. - Setbacks and yards for single family residential.

(1)

(2)

(3)

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-87. - Bulk regulations for multiple family residential.

Multi-Unit Living (more than 4 units)
	RM-1
Lot Dimensions
Area (min)	7,500 sf
Width (min) ¹	80'
Outdoor amenity area (min)	10%
Lot area per unit (min)	2,500 sf
Building/Structure Setbacks²
From front lot line street	10'
From side lot line (min)	5'
From rear lot line (min)	20'
Parking Setbacks³
From front lot line (min)	10'
From side and rear lot line (min)	5'
Height
Principal building	2 stories minimum 4 stories maximum
Minimum square feet per dwelling unit
Efficiency	450 sq. ft.
One Bedroom	550 sq. ft.
Two Bedroom	700 sq. ft.
Three Bedroom	800 sq. ft.
Four Bedroom	1,000 sq. ft.
Maximum Building Area Covered
	60%

Footnotes

¹ Lot width shall be measured at front setback line and shall not include any encumbrances, such as easements or other such restrictions.

² Cornices, eaves, and gutters may project two (2) feet into the required yard. Attached or unattached decks and porches shall comply with required front, side, and rear setbacks.

³ Parking setbacks shall not apply to driveways serving individual dwelling units or shared between multiple dwelling units.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)

Sec. 38-88. - Residential building design.

(1)

General Residential Design Standards.

1. Fenestration	The primary facade shall have no less than 25% of the total facade comprised of windows and doorways. First story windows shall be taller than second story windows.
2. Facade Articulation	Blank walls over 30' in length are not permitted.
3. Front Porch or Stoop	a. Front porches and stoops shall not extend into the public right-of-way. b. Front porches may be covered by a roof or an open stoop. c. Finished floor height shall be no more than 7 inches below the first interior finished floor level of the building. d. Each residential unit with a separate entrance shall include a stoop of not more than 5' deep and 6' wide (not including steps or ramp) or a porch between 7' and 9' deep.
4. Allowed building materials	Primary Facade	a. Brick (natural, glazed) b. Stone(natural, synthetic) c. Engineered or Fiber Cement Board Siding (e.g. Hardie Panel or LP Smart Side) d. Metal siding e. Wood Siding (natural, composite) f. Vinyl Siding
	Secondary Facade and up to 50% of Primary Facade	a. Stucco (traditional cementitious, EIFS) b. Architectural Metal Panel (insulated, composite) c. Decorative cast concrete screens
5. Garage/Parking	a. Garages or carports may only occupy a maximum of 40% of the front facade. b. Temporary carports are not permitted. See also Article 3, Division 1 Accessory Structures c. Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines. d. Construction of any new off-street parking and loading areas shall be surfaced with asphalt, bituminous or concrete pavement, brick or other permanent material as approved by the City. All parking areas shall be graded and drained to dispose of all surface water.

(2)

Building Type Standards

In addition to the General Standards, the following building standards apply to specific residential building types according to permitted uses as defined in the District Articles:

(a)

Single-Family Detached (applicable districts: R-1 and R-2)

Description. The Single-Family building type consists of a detached structure incorporating one (1) unit.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(2)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) primary entrance facing the front lot line. A door may face a side lot line when the porch or stoop faces the front lot line.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

Buildings are required to include a stoop, porch, or portico.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(4)

Garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(b)

Duplex/Triplex (applicable districts: Duplex: R-1 and R-2; Duplex and Triplex (RM)

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line. Additional attached units may have doors on the side.

(2)

Garages, carports, and overheard doors may not apply as the primary entrance.

(3)

A walkway must extend from each dwelling primary entry to the sidewalk.

(4)

A porch or stoop is strongly encouraged.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Driveways may be located adjacent to the building.

(2)

Parking may be provided on street (where permitted) or on a driveway, garage, or carport in the rear or side yard.

(3)

The garage may be located no closer to the front property line than the garages of dwellings typically found in the surrounding neighborhood.

(4)

Parking areas shall not be located in any required front or side street yard, except in the case of a dwelling with a driveway leading to a garage or parking area the drive may be used for parking.

(5)

Driveways and parking areas shall be setback at least three (3) feet from the side or rear lot lines.

(6)

The driveway should be less than fifty (50)% of the front yard area.

(c)

Quad: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(d)

Triplex/Quadplex Townhouses: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2, RM)

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

Each dwelling shall provide a separate pedestrian entryway facing the front lot line with direct access to the sidewalk by way of a front porch or stoop with steps.

(2)

Primary entry for each unit or separated occupancy must face onto and connect to the primary street. The corner unit may face the secondary street. Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Garages or carports must be accessed from the rear yard via an alley.

(2)

Parking may be provided on a driveway, garage, or carport located in the rear yard.

(3)

Articulation. Adjoined dwelling units shall be distinguishable through a change in plane, change in material, or architectural expression.

(e)

Manufactured housing units: (applicable districts: R-1, R-2)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, it must either be:

(1)

(2)

(3)

If the dwelling unit is a manufactured home, the manufactured home shall be installed with the wheels and tongue removed.

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

The dwelling unit shall have a minimum horizontal dimension across any side or rear elevation of twenty (20) feet.

(8)

The dwelling unit shall be placed on the lot so that the portions nearest the principal street frontage are at least thirty (30) feet in dimension parallel to the street.

(9)

(10)

(11)

(12)

The main roof of the dwelling unit shall have a minimum pitch of four (4) feet of rise for each twelve (12) feet of horizontal run.

(13)

The exterior finish of the dwelling unit shall not cause glare or reflection that is greater than that from siding coated with clean, white, gloss exterior enamel.

(14)

(15)

The above standards may be modified by the Zoning Administrator upon determination that the proposed design is consistent with the predominant standard in the surrounding area.

(f)

Flats: (applicable district: RM)

Description. This building type consists of multiple dwelling units placed side by side or stacked, typically with one (1) shared entry.

Building Entrance Orientation:

(1)

All buildings shall provide at least one (1) pedestrian door facing the front lot line.

(2)

Secondary entries permitted from the side or rear.

Parking Access and Location:

(1)

Building integrated parking permitted in rear of building.

(2)

Off-street parking shall be in rear yard.

(3)

Masonry screen wall required between parking and property line.

(4)

Driveways must be located in the side or rear yard.

(5)

Articulation. Employ vertical bays- through change in material, transparency, or plane- to distinguish building entrance, dwelling units, or unit layouts.

(Ord. No. 844, § 2, 3-18-24)