Classification of districts. In order to classify, regulate and restrict the uses of land, buildings, structures and other open spaces about buildings, the City of Pooler is divided into districts as follows:

(1)

R-1 (A-C), One-family residential district

(2)

R-2 (A-C), Two-family residential district

(3)

R-3 (A-C), Multifamily residential district

(3.1)

R-4 Townhouses and condominiums district

(4)

MH-1, Manufactured home dwelling district

(5)

MH-2 (A-B), Manufactured home dwelling district

(6)

MH-3, Manufactured home park district

(7)

C-1, Commercial, light district

(8)

C-2, Commercial, heavy district

(9)

C-P, Commercial-professional district

(10)

I-1, Industrial, light district

(11)

I-2, Industrial, heavy district

(12)

R-A, Residential-agriculture district

(13)

RA-1, Residential-agriculture, limited district

(14)

RA-2, Residential-agriculture, two-family dwelling district

(15)

[Deleted]

(16)

PUD, Planned unit development

(17)

Main street overlay district

(18)

P, Planned district

The boundaries of the various districts are shown on a zoning map of Pooler, which is located in the office of the city hall. The zoning map of the incorporated area is hereby made a part of this ordinance; and all notations, references, and other information shown thereon shall be as much a part of this ordinance as if all the matter and information set forth by said maps were fully described herein.

When uncertainty exists with respect to the location of boundaries of any zoning district as shown on the zoning map of the City of Pooler, the following rules shall apply:

(A)

Unless otherwise specifically indicated, where district boundaries are indicated on the zoning map as approximately following the center line of a street, highway, railroad right-of-way line, stream bed or river bed or such center lines extended, then such center lines shall be construed to be such district boundaries.

(B)

Where district boundaries are indicated on the zoning map as approximately following the corporate limits line of the city, then such corporate limits line shall be construed to be such district boundaries.

(C)

Where district boundaries are indicated on the zoning map as being set back from a street, road, highway, railroad, stream or river and parallel thereto, then such district boundaries, unless otherwise specifically indicated, shall be construed as being at the scaled distance from the center line of such street, road, highway, railroad, stream or river and as being parallel thereto.

(D)

Where a district boundary divides a lot, the requirements for the district in which the greater portion of the lot lies shall be extended to the balance of the lot; provided, however, that such extension shall not include any part of such lot which lies more than 50 feet beyond the district boundary; and provided further, that this provision shall not apply to a through lot. In the case of a through lot, the restriction of the district applying to adjoining lots which front on the same street as the lot frontage in question shall apply.

Within each zoning district a particular list of land uses are set aside from the uses permitted by right. These conditional uses may only be permitted after the applicant has submitted the proper application information, the planning commission has reviewed the application at a public hearing and the city council has approved the use based on the application information.

(A)

Restrictions on conditional uses. No conditional use may be:

(1)

Extended to occupy a greater area of the land unless authorized to [do] so by the governing body.

(2)

Extended to occupy a greater area of building or structure unless such additional area of building or structure already exists as part of the building or structure, and is clearly designed to house the same kind of use as the conditional use occupying the building unless authorized to do so by the city council.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of one-family dwellings, with limited nonresidential uses. This district is composed of certain lands and structures in the city limits having a medium density, predominantly one-family character and additional open areas where it is desirable and likely that similar development will occur. Certain non-residential uses such as schools, parks, and public utilities intended primarily to provide service to the adjacent neighborhood are permitted after applications are submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and approved by the city council.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-1A district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1. Only one primary residence will be allowed per lot.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of one-family dwellings, with limited nonresidential uses developed at a low density.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-1B district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of one-family dwellings, with limited nonresidential uses to have a lower density to protect the natural amenities of the area, and to encourage and provide an orderly transition to urban uses.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-1C district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of up to two-family dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses. Provisions are made for the placement of duplex units, either singly or in groups, on a lot or tract of land. This is not intended to be a high density area.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-2A district, unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance, no building, structure or land shall be used except for the principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of up to two-family dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses. This district allows a mixture of dwelling units while increasing the lot and setback requirements to provide for a balanced and attractive residential area.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-2B district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of up to two-family dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses. This district allows two-family dwellings with increased lot and setback requirements to create a low density development.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-2C district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designed for the development of multifamily dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses. Certain nonresidential uses such as a clubhouse, a sales office, recreational center and facilities intended primarily to provide service to the residents are permitted after applications are submitted and approved in the site development plan. Due to the high concentration of persons and vehicles, this district shall be situated where they are well served by public and commercial services and have convenient access to thoroughfares. Density in the R-3A zoning district is based on net acre of residential land.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-3A district, unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of multifamily dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses allowing for a greater development density in the form of more units per net acre of residential land.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-3B district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of multifamily dwellings, with compatible nonresidential uses allowing for a greater development density in the form of more units per net acre of residential land.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-3C district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of multi-family dwellings in the form of row houses, townhouses and condominiums. Certain nonresidential uses such as clubhouse, a sales office, recreational center and facilities intended primarily to provide service to the residents are permitted after applications are submitted and approved in the site development plan. Due to the high concentration of persons and vehicles, this district shall be situated where they are well served by public and commercial services and have convenient access to at least one major street. This district must be located within a gated community and contain private roads.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-4 district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by Conditional Use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(C)

The dimensional requirements shall be as follows:

(1)

Density shall be limited to ten dwelling units per net acre;

(2)

Buildings shall have a maximum of five dwelling units per building;

(3)

Minimum unit width shall be 20 feet;

(4)

Maximum impervious surface shall be 60 percent;

(5)

Minimum setback distance for each building shall be 25 feet for front yard (measured from back of curb); 20 feet rear setback (measured from property line), and 20 feet side yard (measured from building to building, building to improvements, or building to property line, as the case may be); and

(6)

Maximum height of building shall be 45 feet.

(D)

A site development plan shall be approved by the Mayor and Council of the City of Pooler for all multi-family developments located within the R-4 district. The site development plan shall include an off street parking plan, an amenity plan, and a buffer plan. The approved plan shall constitute the approved use for the site and any subsequent change in land use for the property that is not consistent with the approved plan shall be resubmitted in the same manner and shall require review and a recommendation by the Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission and review and approved by the mayor and council.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area desirable to place not more than one single-family manufactured home per lot. This district is composed of certain limited areas in the city limits where it is desirable to place manufactured home(s).

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the MH-1 district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area which may be designated for development of one-family manufactured homes as a planned subdivision. This district is composed of single-family dwellings on individual lots within an approved subdivision. The dwellings may be site-built, modular or manufactured homes. Said subdivision must meet all applicable ordinances for MH-1 unless otherwise defined herein.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the MH-2 district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1. A copy of recorded plat must be submitted and approved by the city building official showing manufactured home locations and improvements, prior to placing the manufactured home on a lot.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area which may be designated for development of one-family manufactured homes as a planned subdivision. This district has increased lot dimension and yard setback requirements to allow for the lowest density of the MH districts.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the MH-2B district, no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area set aside to allow the location of manufactured home parks. This district is composed of single-family manufactured homes on individual lots or on a stand within an approved manufactured home park. Said park shall meet all applicable requirements of article III, section 10 of this ordinance.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the MH-3 district, no building or structure shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of light commercial properties. This district is composed of lands and structures used primarily for the retalling of goods and the furnishing of services. Regulations within this district are intended to permit and encourage full development of the necessary uses while at the same time protecting nearby residential properties from the possible adverse effects of the commercial activity. All site plans for development in the C-1 district must be submitted to the building official for review by the planning commission, and the city council for approval. See article V of this ordinance for the site plan approval process.

(B)

Permitted uses. In a C-1, light commercial district, land may be used and buildings or structures may be erected or used for the principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1 after a site plan has been submitted to the building official, the planning commission has reviewed the site plan and made comments, and the city council has granted site plan approval at a regularly scheduled meeting.

(C)

Conditional uses. Conditional uses may be permitted after review by the planning commission and approval by city council. (In addition, refer to article VII, section C, paragraph 6 for extension of conditional uses.)

All other uses not listed as permitted or conditional uses shall require the approval of the city council through the ordinance text amendment process.

(Ord. No. O2023-05.A, § I, 6-5-2023)

Cross reference— Businesses, ch. 26.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of heavy commercial properties. This district is composed of lands and structures primarily for the retailing of goods and the furnishing of services in areas with heavy traffic concentration. Regulations for this district are designed to be more strict due to the concentration of people vehicles. All site plans for development in the C-2 district must be submitted to the building official for review by the planning commission, and the city council for approval. See article V of this ordinance for the site plan approval process.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the C-2 district no building, structure or land shall be used except principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1 after a site plan has been submitted to the building official, the planning commission has reviewed the site plan and made comments, and the city council has granted site plan approval at a regularly scheduled meeting.

Any use not otherwise classified, shall be submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and shall require the approval of the city council through the ordinance text amendment process.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for the development of professional offices along with retail sale of goods and services in a manner which will meet the needs of the community without adversely affecting nearby residential uses. This district is composed of lands and structures used primarily for the retailing of goods and the furnishing of services. Regulations within this distract are intended to permit and encourage full development of the necessary uses while at the same time protecting nearby residential properties from possible adverse effects of the commercial activity. All site plans for development in the C-P district must be submitted to the building official for review, and the Pooler City Council for approval. See article V of this ordinance for the site plan approval process.

(B)

Permitted uses. In a C-P, commercial-professional district, land may be used and buildings or structures may be erected or used for the principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1 after a site plan has been submitted to the building official, the planning commission has reviewed the site plan and made comments, and the city council has granted site plan approval at a regularly scheduled meeting.

When residential construction is approved as a conditional use, all requirements of the sections applicable to the type of construction will apply. However, zero lot lines will not be permitted for residential construction.

Any use not otherwise classified, shall be submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and shall require the approval of the city council through the ordinance text amendment process.

Cross reference— Businesses, ch. 26.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is established to provide land for light industrial uses which are not significantly objectionable with regard to noise, odor, fumes, etc., to surrounding properties. This district's regulations are designed to provide a compatible environment for uses generally classified as light industrial in nature; to protect and reserve undeveloped areas within the city that are suitable for such light industries; and to discourage encroachment by residential, commercial, or other uses that may adversely affect the industrial character of the district. Lands within this district should be located in relation to the major thoroughfare network of the city, as well as rail and airport if possible, and designed so that uses within the district do not disrupt normal traffic flow patterns within the city. Planned industrial parks are encouraged within this district.

(B)

Permitted uses. Property and buildings in an I-1, light industrial district shall permit principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1 provided that such uses are conducted in such a manner that noxious odors, fumes, dust and similar particles, or noise are not emitted or detectable beyond the property lines of the lots on which the uses are located.

(C)

Conditional uses may be permitted in accordance with the provisions contained in article V, section 7, and if additional conditions which may be required are met.

Any use not otherwise classified, shall be submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and shall require the approval of the governing body through the ordinance text amendment process.

Cross reference— Businesses, ch. 26.

(A)

Purpose of district. It is the intent of this district to provide land for those heavy industrial uses that may create nuisances and therefore may not be compatible with uses of other zoning districts. Land within this district is intended for industrial operations which require buildings and open areas for the fabrication, processing, extraction or repair of raw materials or manufactured products. Uses in this district should be located so as to discourage the disruption and/or congestion of traffic in the city. Furthermore, it is the intent of this district to discourage any encroachment by residential developments or other uses capable of adversely affecting the industrial character of this district.

(B)

Permitted uses. Property and buildings within the I-2, heavy industrial district shall permit principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(C)

Conditional uses. May be permitted in accordance with the provisions contained within article V, section 7, and if additional conditions which may be required are met. Any industrial use that may produce injurious or noxious noise, vibration, smoke, gas, fumes, odor, dust, fire hazard or other objectionable conditions as a result of its operation (such uses shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from adjoining property lines and must be in conformance with all applicable rules and regulations administered by the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources),

Any use not otherwise classified, shall be submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and shall require the approval of the city council through the ordinance text amendment process.

Cross reference— Businesses, ch. 26.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area designated for mixture of one- and two-family residential, agriculture, and limited commercial uses in a rural manner whereby forest and agricultural uses are protected from adverse impacts of urban sprawl. The purpose of this district is to protect those rural areas within the urban expansion areas of the city for future urban development and to protect certain rural areas against strip development which can lead to traffic congestion, traffic hazards and roadside blight.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-A district, unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance, all uses shall be submitted to the building official for review, and approved by the city council. No building, structure or land shall be used except for principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

(1)

Manufactured home (principal use) - no more than one manufactured home or manufactured home shall be permitted on a lot. When a manufactured home is placed upon an unoccupied lot, it shall be considered the principal use upon such lot and shall comply with all regulations established for a one-family dwelling in this district.

(2)

Manufactured home (second dwelling unit).

a.

A single-family residential dwelling may be established as a second dwelling unit on a lot with an existing single-family dwelling provided it shall be permitted only in a rear yard and that the lot on which such use is to be established meets the minimum lot area and lot width requirement for two-family dwellings.

b.

The single-family dwelling shall be so located as to be not less than 20 feet from any residential structure on said lot or adjoining lot.

c.

If the principal use is a manufactured home, the second dwelling unit must be a site-built dwelling.

(3)

Non-residential mobile structures as temporary use (see general provisions, article III for specific regulations).

(C)

Conditional uses. The conditional uses may be permitted upon applications being submitted to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and approved by the city council. Site development plan is required to accompany the application.

Cross reference— Animals, ch. 14.

(A)

Purpose of district. The purpose of this district is to protect those rural areas within the urban expansion areas of the city for future urban development and to protect certain rural highway roadside areas against strip development which can lead to traffic congestion, traffic hazards and roadside blight.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the RA-1 district, unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance, all uses shall be submitted to the building official for review and approved by the city council. No building, structure or land shall be used except for principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

Cross reference— Animals, ch. 14.

(A)

Purpose of district. This district is defined as an area much like the RA-1 district; but, the primary dwelling structure must be site-built. However, the secondary dwelling unit may be a manufactured home. This district is composed of certain limited areas in the city limits to create an environment in which one-family dwellings, two-family dwellings and certain non-dwelling uses are permitted in order to promote the stability and character of medium density residential development with functional open space.

(B)

Permitted uses. Within the R-A2 district, unless otherwise permitted by this ordinance, all uses shall be submitted to the building official for review and approved by the city council. No building, structure or land shall be used except for principal uses, accessory uses and temporary uses that are allowed by right or by conditional use approval listed on Table 4.1.

Cross reference— Animals, ch. 14.

(A)

Purpose of district. The purpose of the PUD district is to encourage flexibility in land planning that will result in improved design, character and quality of new mixed use developments; to promote the most appropriate use of land; to facilitate the provision of streets and utilities; and to preserve the natural and scenic features and open space.

(B)

General conditions. Any area may be zoned as a PUD district if any one or more of the following general conditions are met:

(1)

More than one principal land use is proposed for development on a parcel under single ownership and management.

(2)

Separate land uses, which would not otherwise be permitted to locate within the same zoning district, are proposed for development on one or more adjacent parcels under single ownership or management.

(C)

Specific requirements. In order to qualify for a PUD district, a project must first meet each of the following specific requirements:

(1)

The site must contain not less than 500 acres and must adjoin, or have direct access to, at least one major street.

(2)

The site shall be in one ownership, or if in several ownerships, the application shall be filed jointly by all owners under single management.

(D)

Administrative procedures for PUD zoning. Requests pertaining to the establishment of a PUD district shall be considered as an amendment to the zoning ordinance and shall be administered and processed accordingly. Requests must include a master plan submittal which may vary from other existing ordinances and regulations concerning use, setbacks, lot size, density, bulk and other requirements. Applicants seeking PUD zoning shall meet with appropriate staff/board/commission members for a preliminary review prior to making an application for rezoning. A general outline of the proposal along with supporting concept plans shall be submitted. The appropriate staff/board/commission members will furnish the applicant with comments prior to the final master plan submittal. The final master plan will then be submitted to the planning commission for review, public hearing and comment, and then forwarded to city council for approval. All portions of the master plan shall comply with the requirements of this ordinance.

(E)

Preliminary PUD zoning. Prior to obtaining a PUD zoning amendment, the applicant may file for preliminary PUD zoning which would establish the total allowable net density, total residential units and total acreage allowances for all proposed land use zones such as residential, commercial and industrial. Final PUD zoning, as outlined in this ordinance, is required prior to beginning any improvements or development within the property.

(F)

The preliminary development plan. The preliminary outline along and supporting concepts shall include the following:

(1)

Existing features.

a.

The bearings and distances of the boundary lines pertaining to the property to be divided.

b.

The location of any streams, natural drainageways, and other waterways which exist on the property.

c.

If in an urban district, the distance and direction to public waterlines and sanitary sewer lines.

d.

The name, location, and right-of-way width of existing streets either on the property or on the land adjoining the property.

e.

The location of railroads, public or private rights-of-way or easements, and parks or other public spaces, either on the property or adjoining the property.

(2)

Proposed design features.

a.

The location of, purpose, and width of any major proposed drainage or utility easement.

b.

The location of proposed streets and lanes.

c.

The proposed land use for the PUD.

(G)

Development standards. Specific standards must be set forth in the PUD master plan which shall include, at a minimum:

(1)

Land use master plan showing the location, net acreage, and gross acreage of each type of residential, office and industrial zone, including open space in the PUD and the existing land uses of property adjacent to the PUD. The master plan shall also include the approximate location of major circulation systems and utility systems with each zone.

(2)

Residential density standards showing the maximum number and type(s) of dwelling units at build-out. Except as otherwise provided in this paragraph, density is based on the total net acreage of the PUD. Net acreage is defined as the total area of high ground, excluding wetlands, for the entire PUD and must be identified within the zoning text of the master plan submittal. In those PUD districts in which the developer constructs an 18-hole golf course (6,000 yards, par 70 from the rear tee) within the designated PUD, developer density shall be determined by gross acreage as opposed to net acreage and shall include for purposes of calculation of density wetlands for the entire PUD.

(3)

Standards for single-family, multifamily, commercial and industrial structures, including: height limitations, setbacks, lot coverage, lot size, parking, buffers and other appropriate standards.

(4)

Standards for commercial and industrial use, including: height limitations, setback, lot coverage, size parking, buffers, non-residential traffic, and other appropriate standards.

(5)

Standards for major roadway circulation systems including the right-of-way width, pavement width, and design and utility locations.

(6)

Location, dimensions, and purpose of any easements.

(7)

Permitted uses within each zone.

(8)

A plan for the proposed phasing and a build-out schedule of development within the PUD.

(9)

The master plan shall also include the expected limits of the 100-year flood where appropriate.

(H)

Amendment of master plan.

(1)

Approved master plan may be revised subject to the approval of the zoning administrator/review board without additional review and approval by the Pooler Planning Commission and City Council in the following limited situations:

a.

minor changes in the location of roads or width of street or right-of-way within the PUD;

b.

change in the allocation of housing density within the PUD so long as the overall approved density is not increased;

c.

minor changes in land use zone boundaries and/or locations so long as the individual land use acreage allocations and densities are not exceeded;

d.

changes in the proposed build-out and phasing schedule.

Any site plan approvals, subdivision plats or permits needed for these changes may be secured using normal procedures.

Any changes to a master plan not listed above shall require that revised PUD master plan be submitted to the planning commission and city council for approvals prior to any approvals of site plans or subdivision plats involving such changes.

(Ord. No. 2021-06.A, § I, 6-22-2021)

(A)

Declaration of purpose, scope and intent. The City of Pooler has identified U.S. Highway 80 as a major transportation corridor through the city, which was once the only paved east west link between Savannah and Macon and historically has been Pooler's "Main Street". It has also generated development along its corridor going back to the 1920's and that trend continues to the present, more in the form of redevelopment and infill development.

Therefore, the purpose of the Main Street overlay district is to provide the City of Pooler a means to unify, coordinate and control the execution of development in a practical and aesthetic manner that enhances and protects the future prosperity of the district without undue burden on owners or developers. The purpose and intent of the Main Street overlay district design standards shall be:

(1)

To implement the comprehensive plan;

(2)

To attract new businesses, residents, patrons and visitors;

(3)

To promote main street style / urbanism design standards by offering development incentives;

(4)

To provide an attractive gateway to the community.

(5)

In fulfilling the purpose and intent of the overlay district, mayor and council shall consider the effect of this ordinance on properties which are adjacent to the overlay district in all decisions. Where development within the overlay district may pose an adverse effect on adjacent properties, mayor and council may place additional requirements, including without limitation, design standards, height requirements, architectural design standards, types of materials, etc., on projects in the Overlay District.

(B)

Main Street overlay district defined. The Main Street overlay district begins at 1-95 and includes both sides of Highway 80 extending westward to the city limits of Pooler. The entire corridor is commercially zoned excluding a small section, which is zoned I-1, Light Industrial. Also, included are the lots that front Collins Street, also known as the abandoned Central of Georgia railroad right-of-way. The official boundaries of the Main Street overlay district are shown on the official zoning map of the City of Pooler.

(C)

Allowed uses. The allowed uses within the overlay district shall be those as allowed by the underlying zoning district of the parcel. However, due to the desire to make this a unique mixed use area within the city, mixed use buildings with upper story residential uses (second floor or greater) are allowed within the limits of the overlay district.

(D)

Definitions.

Building frontage on front street. Building frontage percentage on a front street shall mean the minimum percentage of a front yard street that has a building façade, wall or a public space within an area from five to 15 feet from the front street. The standard shall only apply to front streets and shall not apply to side, corner or rear yards. All buildings shall have at least one required front yard setback. For buildings that front on multiple streets, the owner shall determine which streets shall be identified as a front street.

Mixed use. Any development or building that includes residential and nonresidential principal uses.

Upper story residential. One or more residential dwelling units located above a floor which contains one or more commercial uses.

(E)

Design standards. Along with the standard requirements for site plan, the following design standards shall be shown on all site plans and shall be considered in evaluating proposed developments within the Main Street overlay district:

(1)

Setbacks. It is recognized that the typical setback standards of the base zoning districts do not allow for or encourage the style of pedestrian oriented development desired within this district. Therefore, the minimum setback from any public right of way within the overlay district shall be five feet. It is desired to have buildings and publicly accessible spaces constructed to front on the public right-of-ways, with parking to rear of the property, either to the back or sides of the building. There shall be a minimum 5-foot side yard setback unless the building is proposed as a common wall development, then the minimum setback shall be zero feet. The minimum rear yard setback shall be ten feet.

Corner cutouts, notches or increased setbacks may be necessary to meet sight distance requirements at driveway and street intersections. Such sight distance requirements shall be based on the current GDOT and AASHTO calculations based on the road / street speed and traffic volume.

(2)

Parking. Parking standards shall be in accordance with the City of Pooler Appendix A-Zoning, Article III, Section (5)(D). However; alternatives to the established parking requirements may be granted to developments which provide a study and have a mixture of uses whose peak parking requirements do not coincide in time and thereby may share parking spaces, or if there is nearby public parking that can serve the proposed development. Similarly, unique site designs that exhibit creative ways to save trees, increase open space or otherwise minimize the negative impact of parking areas, etc. may be considered in approving a deviation from the stand parking criteria. This deviation may be approved based on the consideration and merits of the parking study and does not have to meet the required considerations of Section 9 for a variance.

A by-right 25 percent reduction to the required parking shall be granted if the development is designed in such a manner that places a building and / or publicly accessible; greenspace, plazas or other hardscape areas (not including parking) between five feet and 15 feet from the front property line for a minimum of 60 percent of the front street frontage.

(3)

Building heights. Buildings heights shall have a by-right height allowance of the base zoning district. However; up to 60 feet in height can be requested if the project is mixed used in nature and places a building and / or publicly accessible; greenspace, plaza or other hardscape areas (not including parking) between five and 15 feet from the front property line for a minimum of 60 percent of the front street frontage. In all situations, the requirements of Section 6 of the zoning code for buildings over 35 feet must be addressed.

(4)

Buffers / Screening.

a.

Where parking lots are not screened by building placement / massing from being visible on public rights-of-way or to adjacent properties, which are a non-residential zoning or uses, one of the following must be provided.

- A 36-inch-high wall made of pierced or solid brick (or other construction material complimentary to the architecture).

- A solid hedge of evergreen plant material. Initial installation shall be a minimum 24 inch height and shall be a species that can be maintained at 36 inches high and spaced appropriately to grow to a solid hedge within two years. This hedge must be perpetually maintained to ensure no gaps develop due to poor plant health or death.

b.

For areas where the adjacent zoning is a residential zone, the following standards will apply.

- Where properties are developed in the desired style of the overlay district, with parking to the rear or sides of the property and the building frontage on a front street of 60 percent or greater, one of the following must be provided.

º A 6-foot height wall made of pierced or solid brick (or other construction material complimentary to the architecture) or

º A solid hedge of evergreen plant material. Initial installation shall be a minimum six feet in height and shall be a species that can be maintained at a minimum of six feet high and spaced appropriately to grow to a solid hedge within two years. This hedge must be perpetually maintained to ensure no gaps develop due to poor plant health or death.

- Where properties are developed in a conventional nature, with parking to the front and the building to the rear, the following must be provided.

º A 20-foot-wide buffer, composed of plant material and a 6-foot height wall made of pierced or solid brick (or other construction material complimentary to the architecture). The wall shall be placed in the middle of the buffer to allow maintenance of the landscape by the property owner to both sides of the wall.

c.

All exterior non-residential trash receptacles and multifamily residential with common trash receptacles shall be screened from public view on three sides and on the fourth side by a gate that screens the receptacles from view. The enclosure and gate should be made of materials compatible with that of the primary structure.

d.

Loading docks and truck parking shall be screened from public view using building mass, screen walls, roll down doors and/or landscaping.

e.

All service yards, exterior utility equipment and any other service areas or equipment are to be screened so as not to be visible at ground level from public rights of-way or other private properties. This includes mechanical equipment on rooftops.

(5)

Trees/Open space. It is recognized that the urban style of development envisioned for this overlay district may not be compatible with the city's typical minimum requirement of 20 percent open space and 15 trees per acre on any site. Therefore, the minimum open space shall be reduced to ten percent and a payment in lieu [of] tree planting based on section 42-199(c) of the City of Pooler Tree Protection Ordinance shall be allowed for any development that places a building and / or publicly accessible; greenspace, plaza or other hardscape areas (not including parking) between five and 15 feet from the front property line for a minimum of 60 percent of the front street frontage. Should the site be developed in a conventional manner, with parking between the building and front street and / or the building setback over 15 feet from the front street, the standard 20 percent required minimum shall be required.

(6)

Utilities. Newly installed utility services and service revisions necessitated by exterior alterations shall be located underground.

(F)

Architectural design standards and materials. Within the overlay district, consistency in architectural design and use of materials is desired. Therefore, the standards below regarding exterior materials and architectural design features must be employed within the corridor. Architectural plans shall be submitted to the building and zoning department for review of compliance with these standards.

(1)

Siding. Wood clapboard, wood board and batten, wood shingle siding, brick, natural stone, stucco, tabby, faced concrete block, and any cement based artificial siding material which closely resembles the natural materials listed above. Siding may be left natural or painted, stained or, in the case of wood, weathered. Other materials such as architectural metal panels, etc. may be considered on a case by case, design by design basis. Painted or stained surfaces shall conform to the colors listed below.

(2)

Roofs. Wood shingles, slate shingles, multi-layered asphalt shingles, metal raised seam or tiles. Other roofing material or solutions such as green roofs, etc. may be allowed.

(3)

Desired features. Pitched roofs, roof overhangs, covered porches, canopies, awnings, trellises, pergolas and other similar structures.

(4)

Colors. Earth tones (greens, tans, light browns, terra cotta, etc.), grays, pale primary and secondary colors (less than 50 percent color value), white cream tones, and the like. Dramatic accents and / or primary colors, may be only be used for small areas such as trim, logos, or to distinguish an architectural feature. In no instance, shall the combination of dramatic accent color or primary colors compose more than ten percent of any building façade.

(5)

Building scale and storefront requirements.

a.

Discontinuous building massing. Every building shall reduce its perceived height and bulk by dividing the building mass into smaller scale components. Building walls exceeding 100 continuous horizontal linear feet shall utilize offsets, such as projections, recesses, and changes in floor level, to add architectural interest and variety, and to relieve the negative visual effect of a simple long wall.

b.

Variation in building silhouettes. Variation in the roofline of buildings and offsets in pitched roofs and gables shall be required. Parapets in building masses exceeding 100 continuous linear feet shall be varied in height and projection and shall use decorative elements such as crown moldings, dental, brick soldier courses, or similar detail.

c.

The length of facade without intervening fenestration, architectural detailing or entryway shall not exceed 30 feet.

d.

Fenestration treatment shall be provided for a minimum of 50 percent of the length of the front street frontages. A maximum of 25 percent of the required fenestration treatment shall be permitted to utilize architectural detailing in place of glass materials to meet the fenestration treatment requirements.

e.

Fenestration shall not utilize painted glass, reflective glass or other similarly treated or opaque windows. Entrances and windows may be counted towards fenestration requirements.

(6)

Exterior materials and features prohibited.

a.

Plywood, cinderblock, unfinished poured concrete, un-faced concrete block, plastic and/or metal not closely resembling a natural material.

b.

Partial (less than three sides) mansard roofs, flat roofs without a pediment, unarticulated roofs having a length exceeding 100 feet.

c.

Incongruous architectural details or color contrasts.

d.

Unscreened chain link or woven metal fences.

e.

Reflective materials as the main building feature, to include highly reflective glass.

(7)

Corporate or logo architecture. Prototypical buildings that are designed for repetition to project a company or chain image may be rejected altogether. However, these designs may be acceptable if they conform to the above categories or adapt their features to fit the above categories.

(G)

Lighting. In general, lighting is to be the minimum required for each use that will provide safety, security and building / landscape accents on each developed site, but not impose direct illumination or light trespass beyond the site. Lighting needs and designs are to be specifically tailored to each site which means that they could be quite different, one site to another. Fully shielded luminaries shall be provided for all high intensity exterior lighting.

(H)

Signage. The provisions of the City of Pooler Sign Ordinance Chapter 66. Article I, shall apply to all signs within the Main Street overlay district, with the following modifications:

(1)

All freestanding signs shall be monument style signs, which shall be constructed of the same or architecturally compatible material as the principle building.

a.

The sign shall not exceed 100 square feet with a maximum height of 15 feet.

(2)

No pylon signs, pole signs or billboards will be allowed in this district.

(3)

Any corner lot shall be allowed one additional freestanding sign on the second street frontage.

(I)

Permit fees; limit. Notwithstanding any provision contrary to the Charter or Code of Ordinances, any applicable building permit fees for any development (construction including the erection of a new building or the alteration of an existing building in connection with its renovation or addition) within the district shall not exceed $5,000.00, provided the development is and remains in compliance with all rules and regulations of the district. At any time, if the development is found not in compliance, the permit fee limit shall be nullified and any and all fees applicable to the development shall be retroactively applied and due to the city.

(Ord. of 9-18-2017, § I; Ord. of 10-15-2018, § I; Ord. of 5-20-2019, § I)

(A)

The purpose of this district shall be to provide areas within which comprehensive development plans shall be prepared by the developer and approved by Pooler City Council to secure an orderly development pattern. Such district shall be considered an "overlay" district and the uses permitted in such district shall be those uses permitted in the zoning district which is overlaid.

Property may be placed in the "P" overlay classification on a finding by Pooler Planning Commission and approved by Pooler City Council:

(1)

Such rezoning would be in the community's interest.

(2)

Unplanned and uncoordinated development could result in potential problems in such areas as traffic flow, schools, recreation, open spaces, and public facilities.

(3)

To ensure an orderly growth and development, it is appropriate to acquire approval of specific development plans by the Pooler City Council.

(4)

To ensure development is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan.

(B)

Development plan required. Such plan shall promote an environment of stable and desirable character in harmony with the established or proposed land use patterns in surrounding area.

Before an area shall be designated as a planned district on the Zoning Map of the City of Pooler, a general development plan shall be submitted to the Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission for review and recommendation to the Pooler City Council. The Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend to disapprove, approve, or modify the plan in order to secure an orderly development pattern in accordance with the purpose of this chapter.

The Pooler City Council may on its own motion approve a planned district. Following such approval, the developer shall be required to submit a general development plan to the Pooler Planning Commission for review and recommendation, however, no development shall take place until a specific development plan has been approved by the Pooler City Council as set forth in (D) of this section.

(C)

General plan. The general plan for a proposed planned district shall include proposed uses and overall development standards and shall indicate the proposed use or reuse of all land, open spaces, location of major streets, recreation area, school sites, religious centers, and such other plan elements and reasonable design criteria as may be deemed necessary by the Pooler Planning Commission.

(1)

General development plan content. The general development plan shall include:

a.

All proposed uses, building arrangements, and lot arrangements

b.

Pedestrian and traffic access

c.

Parking calculation and areas

d.

Arrangement, size, and design of buildings, lighting, and signage

e.

Scale, building height, and density and relation to proposed uses to one another and those of adjacent properties

f.

General layout and discussion of the provision of public facilities, including proposed public and private roads (including estimated trip generation), water/sanitary sewer (including estimated average daily demand), and stormwater infrastructure to serve current and projected needs

g.

Buffers and other measures to protect adjacent properties from noise, glare, unsightliness, or other objectionable features; and

h.

Other plan elements and reasonable design criteria as may be deemed necessary by the City of Pooler.

(D)

Specific development plan. Following approval of the general development plan by Pooler City Council, no development shall take place until a detailed specific development plan or preliminary subdivision plat, where required, have been submitted to the Pooler Planning and Zoning Commission for review and recommendation and the Pooler City Council for final approval.

If property within a "P" (Planned) district is to be developed in phases, such detailed specific development plan may be submitted in phases.

Specific development plans as approved and certified by Pooler City Council shall be certified to the building inspector for the issuance of applicable permits. Development requiring subdivision actions shall be processed in accordance with the provisions of the City Code. No development shall take place within a planned district that is not shown on a specific development plan as approved and certified by Pooler City Council.

(1)

Standards. Development standards shall be applied as provided elsewhere in this chapter for the particular underlying zoning district. Provided that Pooler City Council may approve variances from these requirements at the request of the developer on a finding that such variances would:

a.

Be in keeping with the overall character of the area.

b.

Would not be contrary to the purpose and intent of this chapter.

c.

Would not be detrimental to existing or proposed surrounding uses.

d.

Would serve public purposes to a degree equal to or greater than the standards replaced.

e.

Meet the Pooler variance standards outlined in Article V. Procedure for Administration and Enforcement, Section 10. Standards and Zoning Ordinance Map Amendment.

(2)

Specific development plan content. Specific development plans shall include all aspects of the development and prepared by a Professional Engineer to practice Civil Engineering in the State of Georgia. All submittals must be signed and dated with the designers P.E. stamp. It must include all necessary technical reports, documentation, and designed consistent with the most recently adopted engineering standards and specifications of the City of Pooler, all City Ordinances, and all three applicable State and Federal laws and regulations. As part of the specific development plan submittal, the applicant shall include any permits from state and federal agencies as required by law. Items shall include, but may not be limited to:

a.

Existing site features:

(i)

Existing built features (buildings, driveways, parking, undeveloped areas, etc.) at current elevation from established benchmark.

(ii)

Existing contours at one-foot intervals.

(iii)

Tree survey.

(iv)

Ownership and adjacent use of surrounding properties.

(v)

Adjacent roads, including names and route number if state or federal route, right of way width, and curb cuts within 500 feet; existing improvements inside adjacent road widths such as turn lanes, drainage systems, sidewalks/pathways, utilities.

(vi)

Existing drainage features on or around the site, jurisdictional wetlands with existing buffers as required by the US Army Corps of Engineers, floodplain limits (Provide FEMA map reference and date of FEMA map); state waters and required buffers by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division.

(vii)

Existing utilities and easements on or around the site.

(viii)

Cut/fill computations for fill place in the regulated flood plan, or provide FEMA no-rise certificate.

(ix)

Other as may be deemed necessary by the City of Pooler.

b.

Proposed development features:

(i)

All built features at finished elevation from established benchmark

(ii)

Amenities and open spaces

(iii)

On-site public and private streets, right of way lines, curb and gutter, curb radius at intersections, fire access, sidewalks, pedestrian paths, parking areas; signage and pavement markings; traffic impact study as appropriate in Article V, Section 11; proposed off-site improvements as necessary; copy of GDOT permits

(iv)

On-site water/sewer improvements and connections to existing systems (including invert elevations), consistent with the most recently adopted engineering standards and specifications of the City of Pooler; proposed off-site improvements as necessary

(v)

On-site stormwater infrastructure improvements and connections to existing systems (with detailed hydrology and hydraulic reports), including easements consistent with the most recently adopted engineering standards and specifications of the City of Pooler; low impact development and green infrastructure best management practices; proposed off-site improvements as necessary

(vi)

Lighting plans consistent with the illumination standards in Chapter 74 - Streets, Sidewalks, and Other Public Place, Article VI - Outdoor Lighting.

(vii)

Landscape plan prepared in accordance with Chapter 42-Environment, Article VI- Tree Protection.

(viii)

Buffers between zoning districts

(ix)

Erosion and sediment control plans

(x)

Development requiring subdivision actions shall be processed in accordance with the provisions of Appendix B - Subdivisions of the Pooler Code of Ordinances; and

(xi)

Other as may deemed necessary by the City of Pooler

(E)

Overlay district designations. When an area is rezoned to a "P" (planned district) the letter "P" shall be placed in front of the standard zoning district identification for the area in question; e.g. an area zoned C-2 which is rezoned to a "P" planned district shall be indicated as a P-C-2 on the official zoning map for the City of Pooler.

Table 4.1 Allowed Uses by Zoning District

(Ord. No. 2021-03.A, § II, 6-7-2021; Ord. No. 2021-08.D, § I, 9-21-2021; Ord. No. O2022-01.A, § III, 1-22-2022; Ord. No. O2022-03.A, § I, 4-4-2022; Ord. No. O2022-10.B, § II, 11-7-2022; Ord. No. O2022-11.C, § I, 12-5-2022; Ord. No. O2024-02.B, § I, 2-20-2024; Ord. No. O2024-09.C, § III, 11-4-2024; Ord. No. O2024-03.A, § III, 3-3-2025)