The value to the public of certain open areas of the city is represented in their natural, undeveloped or unbuilt condition. It is recognized by this Ordinance that the principal use of certain open areas is and ought to be the development, management, and utilization of the natural resource base possessed by these areas. In order that this value be maintained and this use encouraged, this zoning district is designed to regulate the location of buildings and structures and the use of parcels and lots, in order to protect and enhance the natural resources, natural amenities, natural habitats of wildlife, watershed and reservoir areas, agricultural capabilities, public recreation areas, and the public health, safety and welfare. These regulation will reduce the hardship and financial burdens imposed upon the city by the destruction of resources, the improper and wasteful use of open land, wooded areas, and the periodic flooding and overflow of public waters.

The following buildings and structures, and uses of parcels, lots, buildings and structures are permitted in this district:

1.

Public or private forest preserve, game refuge, golf course, park, playground, or other recreation purpose.

2.

Public and private conservation areas and structures for the development, protection and conservation of open space, watersheds, water, soil, forest, and wildlife resources.

3.

Public, parochial, and other private schools offering courses in general education, and not operated for profit.

4.

Public, municipal office buildings such as a municipal hall or public safety facility, library, or museum.

5.

The raising or growing of plants, trees, shrubs and nursery stock.

6.

Transmission and distribution lines and structures, not including buildings or communication towers for essential services, when located within an existing public or utility right-of-way.

7.

Publicly owned and operated parks, parkways, and recreation facilities.

(Ord. No. 161, Art. III, 6-16-97)

The following special conditions uses shall be permitted, subject to the conditions hereinafter required for each use, subject to any and all reasonable conditions which may be imposed in accordance with section 4c.(2) of the City-Village Zoning Act, as may be amended, and further subject to the review and approval by the planning commission and city commission as specified in section 13.3, "Review and Approval of Conditional Uses," and section 13.1, "Review and Approval of Site Plan," of this Ordinance.

1.

Essential services, provided that:

a.

No storage of materials, equipment, vehicles, or supplies shall be located on the premises, and

b.

No personnel shall be quartered or employed on the premises, and

c.

The structure shall be designed, erected, and landscaped in such a manner as to conform to the character of the surrounding area and this district.

2.

A lot may be used for general and specialized farming and agricultural activities including the raising or growing of crops and foodstuffs; provided that any lot that is kept vacant or as idle cropland shall be so treated as to prevent soil erosion by wind or water and so treated as to prevent excessive growth of obnoxious weeds and shrubs.

See article 17, Schedule of Regulations, limiting the height and size of buildings, the minimum size of lots permitted by land use, the maximum density permitted and providing minimum yard setback requirements.