Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Access to the public street shall be made only by an internal access driveway.
2. Internal drives shall be located between outparcels and primary developments.
3. Internal drives shall connect to all access driveways.
4. Driveway connections to internal driveways and access driveways shall be at least 200 feet from all intersections. State roads may require a greater separation.
5. Parking areas shall be designed in such a way that will not require the backing of vehicles into or parallel parking along internal drives.

Figure 9.2-1 Developments with Outparcels

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Driveway Connections to Adjacent Properties
   1. Within any Office and Institutional, Business, Industrial and Planned Development district, all commercial and mixed-use developments may provide driveway connections within cross-access easements to serve outparcels and/or adjacent commercial and mixed-use developments. Furthermore, where an adjacent property is undeveloped a driveway connection and cross-access easement may be provided, except where the adjacent property is located within a Conservation district.
   2. A recorded cross-access easement may be required prior to the issuance of a building permit. The cross-access easement may have a minimum width of 24 feet.
   3. All driveway connections may be constructed and stubbed to the property line. Future development of an adjacent property may complete the connection to such existing stub-out. Where the adjacent property is developed and a stub-out has been provided, the proposed development may connect to the stub-out.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Gate Width

   The clear opening through gates shall be at least two (2) feet wider than the roadway it controls.

2. Vehicle Queuing Distance
   1. Residential uses up to 75 units shall have at least 20 feet of vehicle stacking distance. An additional 20 feet of stacking distance shall be provided for every additional 100 units.
   2. Vehicle stacking distance for mixed-use and nonresidential uses are determined by the street type, as indicated in Table 9.2-1.

1. 3. Vehicle stacking distance is measured from the back of the sidewalk, or five (5) feet from the back of curb or edge of street, whichever is closest to the gate.
   4. For any controlled access device that opens on a horizontal plane, such as a gate, a minimum of 20 feet of clear width shall be provided unless additional width is required by the City Manager or his or her designee. Such device shall open away from the street right-of-way.

3. Residential Developments

   Adequate maneuvering room between the gate and the street shall be provided for a turnaround area for vehicles to exit in a forward motion. The turnaround area shall have a minimum radius of 60 feet to the outside of the turn. The turnaround area is subject to approval as determined by the City Manager or his or her designee.

4. Related Ordinances

   In addition to this sub-section, compliance with the Emergency Access Requirements for Gated Communities Ordinance (Part 3, Chapter 7, as amended) is required.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.2-2 Pedestrian Access

1. Access from Public Rights-of-Way

   A pedestrian path shall be provided where any building entrance open to the public or principal on-site destination for any multi-family, commercial or mixed-use development is located more than 100 feet from any property line that is adjacent to a public street. Access onto the site shall be provided in accordance with the following:

   1. Separation shall not exceed 300 linear feet between pedestrian paths and/or between pedestrian paths and any property line which forms an intersection with a street right-of-way; and
   2. Pedestrian paths shall be located as to provide the shortest route of travel from the public sidewalk or street right-of-way to the building entrance or principal on-site destination.
2. Connectivity
   1. Multifamily, commercial and mixed-use developments which contain more than one (1) principal use and/or building may provide walkways between the principal entrances of the uses and/or buildings;
   2. Within any Residential Multi-family, Office and Institutional, Business, Industrial or Planned Development zoning district, all multi-family, commercial and mixed-use developments may provide pedestrian path connections within cross-access easements to serve outparcels and/or adjacent multi-family, commercial and mixed-use developments. Furthermore, where an adjacent property is undeveloped a pedestrian path connection and cross access easement may be provided, regardless of the zoning district.
   3. All pedestrian paths may be constructed and stubbed to the property line. Future development of an adjacent property may complete the connection to such existing stub-out. Where the adjacent property is developed and a stub-out has been provided, the proposed development may connect to the stub-out. A recorded cross-access easement shall be required prior to the issuance of a building permit.
   4. Pedestrian paths shall be clearly identified on the site development plan.
3. Design Standards
   1. Pedestrian paths shall meet City lighting standards as required by the Traffic Engineering Site Plan Review Manual and be physically separated from driveways and parking spaces by landscaping, barriers, grade separation or other means to protect pedestrians from vehicular traffic.
   2. Pedestrian paths shall be a minimum of four (4) feet of unobstructed width and be constructed of a material approved by the City Manager or his or her designee.
4. Waiver or Modification

   The City Manager or his or her designee may waive or modify the requirements when one of the following situations exists:

   1. Any improvement which would create an unsafe condition or security concern;
   2. There are topographical constraints, or existing structures effectively block access;
   3. The land use would not generate the need for pedestrian access; or
   4. The public is not allowed access to the subject land use.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

9.3.2 Applicability

1. Unless specifically exempt elsewhere in this Ordinance, all existing and proposed development shall provide off-street parking and loading facilities in accordance with this Section.
2. With the exception of restriping parking lots or other routine maintenance which does not result in a reconfiguration of the parking spaces, any modification to existing off-street parking and loading facilities shall conform to the requirements of this Section.
3. Unless specifically exempt from these requirements, the off-street parking and loading requirements shall not be reduced or modified beyond what this Ordinance allows without an Alternative Parking Plan approved in accordance with Sec. 9.3.8 or a variance in accordance with Sec. 3.21, Variances.
4. Buildings and uses lawfully existing as of the Effective Date of this Ordinance may be altered or repaired without providing additional off-street parking or loading facilities, provided there is no increase in the amount of required parking.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.3-1 Parking Lot and Space Dimensions

1. 3. Compact Spaces

      Up to 10% of off-street parking spaces for a use requiring 25 or more off-street parking spaces may be designed for compact cars subject to the following conditions:

      1. Parking spaces shall be grouped or placed in clusters.
      2. Each parking space shall be clearly marked with the words "compact car only," and such parking spaces shall comply with the following design standards:

2. Parking Rooms

   In order to improve the aesthetics and circulation of expansive off-street parking lots, surface parking facilities serving new commercial development that contains greater than 200 spaces shall be visually and functionally segmented into smaller parking rooms as shown in Figure 9.3-2. The parking rooms shall comply with the following:

   1. Each parking room shall contain no more than 200 parking spaces.
   2. Parking rooms shall meet the following design standards:
      1. Parking rooms shall be separated by a two-way drive aisle.
      2. Where the perimeter of each parking room is adjacent to an internal street or property line a minimum 10-foot wide landscaped strip shall be provided. The landscaped strip shall contain at a minimum small understory trees as defined in the Tree and Shrub List in the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance. Spacing of trees shall not exceed 25 feet on center.
      3. Where the perimeter of a parking room falls within a required Use or Street Yard buffer area, the denser buffer shall apply.
      4. Parking areas shall be designed in such a way that will not require the backing of vehicles into main driveways.
      5. One (1) access point to parking rooms may be provided from each internal street or dividing drive aisle and shall be 125 feet from any intersection.
   3. Internal access to parking rooms or internal drives shall be a minimum of 125 feet from the main road.

Figure 9.3-2 Parking Rooms

3. Surfacing
   1. Surfacing Required

      Except as provided below, where off-street facilities are provided for parking or any other vehicular use area, they shall be surfaced with asphalt or concrete material, or with alternative paving material (e.g. concrete pavers, brick, "turfstone" or similar material) determined to exhibit equivalent wear resistance and load bearing characteristics as asphalt or concrete and conforms to City standard details for approved pervious materials. Use of alternative paving material shall be approved by the City Manager or his or her designee.

   2. Alternative Surfaces

      For the uses listed below, all driveways, access aisles and parking spaces (excluding handicapped) may be surfaced with grass lawn or shell, provided the standards of 9.3.5(a) are met:

      1. Places of worship;
      2. Parks, playgrounds, football and baseball stadiums, fairgrounds and other similar outdoor recreation areas; and
      3. High schools, for parking above the minimum required.
   3. Maximum Impervious Parking Area

      When at least 75 parking spaces are required by Sec. 9.3-4(d), any number of spaces greater than 125% of the minimum requirement shall be a pervious material, as approved by the City Manager or his or her designee.

   4. Waiver or Modification

      The Planning Director may waive or modify the requirements when one of the following situations exists:

      1. Any improvement which would create an unsafe condition or security concern;
      2. There are topographical constraints, or existing structures effectively block access;
      3. The land use would not generate the need for pedestrian access; or
      4. The public is not allowed access to the subject land use.
4. Tandem Parking
   1. Applicability
      1. All residential uses;
      2. Employee parking;
      3. Parking spaces in excess of the requirement of Sec. 9.3-4(d); and
      4. Other nonresidential uses as approved by the City Manager or his or her designee.
   2. Residential Uses

      Multi-family units which require two (2) or more parking spaces may utilize tandem spaces to comply with the off-street parking requirement of Sec. 9.3-4(d), however both tandem spaces shall be assigned to the same dwelling unit.

   3. Nonresidential Uses

      Each tandem employee parking space shall be clearly marked with the words "employees only".

   4. Tandem Space Dimensions

      A maximum of two (2) parking spaces in tandem may be permitted and shall have combined minimum dimensions of nine (9) feet in width by 36 feet in length.

5. Separation from Walkways and Streets

   Where off-street facilities are provided for parking or any other vehicular use area they shall be separated from walkways, sidewalks, streets and lanes by curbing or other protective device approved by the City Manager or his or her designee.

6. Markings and Signs

   Each off-street parking space shall be clearly marked, and pavement directional arrows or signs shall be provided wherever necessary. Markers, directional arrows and signs shall be properly maintained so as to ensure their maximum efficiency.

7. Handicap Accessible Parking Requirements

   Off-street parking spaces for persons with disabilities are to be provided as required by the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and the Georgia Accessibility Code, as amended.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.3-3 Downtown Savannah Parking District

2. Applicability

   The requirements of this Section shall only apply to the use of structures and/or land within the area established by Figure 9.3-3. Where a provision of this Section conflicts with another section of this Ordinance, the provision of this Section shall apply. All other sections of the Ordinance applicable to parking and loading areas shall apply, unless otherwise specified.

3. Parking Exempt Area

   All uses within the boundaries of the parking exempt area, as shown in Figure 9.3-3, shall not be subject to the off-street parking requirements of Sec. 9.3.4(d) and loading requirements of 9.3.9. However, any parking and/or loading area provided shall comply with this Ordinance.

4. Off-Street Parking Reductions

   Uses within the boundaries of the parking reduction area, as shown in Figure 9.3-3, are permitted to reduce the number of off-street parking spaces required by Sec. 9.3.4(d) in accordance with Table 9.3-4. Uses/categories not identified in Table 9.3-4 shall be subject to the off-street parking requirements of Sec. 9.3.4(d). The loading requirements of Sec. 9.3.9 do not apply to uses within this area.

5. Compliance with Historic District Overlays

   Properties located in local historic districts identified in Article 7.0, Overlay Districts, may have additional standards.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.3-4 Victorian and Streetcar Parking District

2. Applicability

   The requirements of this Section shall only apply to the use of structures and/or land within the area established by Figure 9.3-4. Where a provision of this Section conflicts with another section of the Ordinance, the provision of this Section shall apply. All other sections of the Ordinance applicable to parking and loading areas shall apply, unless otherwise specified.

3. Off-Street Parking Reductions

   Uses within the boundaries of the parking reduction area, as shown in Figure 9.3-4, are permitted to reduce the number of off-street parking spaces required by Sec. 9.3.4(d) in accordance with Table 9.3-5. Uses/categories not identified in Table 9.3-5 shall be subject to the off-street parking requirements of Sec. 9.3.4(d). All uses shall not be subject to the loading requirements of 9.3.9.

4. For the first 3,000 square feet of any nonresidential use, there shall be no minimum off-street parking space requirement. For square footage exceeding 3,000 square feet, the parking requirement shall be calculated using Table 9.3-5 Victorian and Streetcar Parking Reductions.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. 1. 1. 1. 2. The City Manager or his or her designee shall determine the temporal distribution of activity for any uses not listed in Table 9.3-6. This determination will be made using information similar to that used in determining the minimum requirement for uses, per Sec. 9.3.4(a)(iii).
            3. An area equivalent to the difference in required parking and required shared parking, including drive aisles, shall be held in reserve as greenspace. Upon a determination that the parking is insufficient, the reserve area shall be converted to off-street parking spaces. The reserve area shall not be counted toward the greenspace requirement, as required by the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance.
   3. Valet Parking

      Valet parking may be used as a means of satisfying otherwise applicable off-street parking requirements where all of the following standards have been met. In addition to the requirements of Sec. 9.3.8(b)(i), the following information shall be provided on the alternative parking plan.

      1. An equivalent number of valet spaces to replace the required parking spaces. Such valet spaces do not require individual striping and may take into account the tandem or mass parking of vehicles.
      2. The routes to be used between the valet loading zone or other vehicle pickup point and the parking area location.
      3. An estimated number of vehicles to be parked during peak hours of operation.
      4. The maximum number of vehicles that can be parked in the parking area.
      5. Hours of operation for the valet service.
      6. Within the city, a City of Savannah Valet Parking Permit, if stacking will occur in the right-of-way.

1. 4. Payment of Fees In Lieu of Parking

      For properties within the Victorian or Landmark Historic Districts, the City Manager or his or her designee may authorize applicable off-street parking requirements for a nonresidential use or mix of uses to be satisfied, in whole or in part, by the applicant’s payment of a proportionate-share in-lieu fee established by the Mayor and Aldermen that is consistent with, but does not exceed, costs the City will incur to provide the equivalent number of public parking spaces that can serve the use.

      1. If such an in-lieu fee is established, a request to pay an in-lieu fee shall be submitted in writing to the City Manager or his or her designee who may approve such a request on determining that:
         1. Due to the availability of public transit or unique characteristics of the use or area, the unavailability of the off-street parking spaces for which the fee is made as part of the development will not result in traffic congestion and will be compatible with the character of surrounding development, and
         2. Sufficient public parking exists or is to be added through a funded capital project within a distance of the use or uses, as defined in Sec. 9.3.8(c)(1), to satisfy the parking demand it generates.
      2. In-lieu fees will be paid based on a rate schedule approved by the Mayor and Aldermen and established in the City of Savannah Revenue Ordinances. Fees will be paid based on the number of spaces being removed from a use’s parking requirements.
      3. If payment of the in-lieu fee is approved by the City Manager or his or her designee, the applicant shall pay the in-lieu fee before issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
      4. The in-lieu fee shall be deposited into the City of Savannah Parking Enterprise Fund or other such account designated for the provision of off-street parking spaces and other forms of mobility to include public transportation and bike lanes. The City shall spend it within a reasonable period of time, and funds shall be spent only towards provision of public off-street parking spaces and other forms of mobility that reasonably accommodate the parking demand generated by the development. City costs for which in-lieu fees may be spent include, but are not limited to, the cost of land, leases, rights, easements and franchises; financing charges; interest paid before and during construction; cost of plans and specifications; cost of engineering and legal services and other expenses necessary or incidental for determining the feasibility or practicability of construction, reconstruction or use; cost of all labor and materials; and administrative expenses and such other expenses as may be necessary or incidental to the provision of public off-street parking spaces.
      5. The City Manager or his or her designee may accept an interest in land instead of accepting all or a portion of an in-lieu parking fee on determining that land would be used in connection with the provision of public off-street parking, if the value of the land equals or exceeds the in-lieu parking fee that would otherwise be required. In making its determinations, the City Manager or his or her designee may consider the size of the land, the feasibility of constructing a parking facility on the land, and the land’s proximity to parking demands associated with the use.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

3. Design Standards
   1. Off-street loading spaces shall be not less than 12 feet in width by 40 feet in length, with not less than 15 feet of vertical clearance.
   2. Off-street loading facilities shall not encroach on or interfere with the public use of streets, sidewalks and lanes by automotive vehicles or pedestrians, unless otherwise approved by the City Manager or his or her designee. Adequate space shall be available for the unloading and loading of goods, materials, items or stock for delivery and shipping.
4. Access

   Each off-street loading space shall be directly accessible from a street or lane without crossing or entering any other required off-street loading space. Such loading space shall be accessible from the interior of the building it serves and shall be arranged for convenient and safe ingress and egress by motor truck and/or trailer combination.

5. Combined Off-Street Loading

   Collective, joint or combined provisions for off-street loading facilities for two (2) or more buildings or uses may be made, provided that such off-street loading facilities are of sufficient quantity to adequately serve the proposed uses.

6. Screening for Loading Areas

   See Sec. 9.5, Screening and Buffers.

7. Markings

   Each off-street loading space shall be permanently marked and identified as a loading area where no parking shall be permitted.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Required Dimensions
   1. Off-street stacking shall be provided as follows:

1. 2. Drive-thru stacking lanes shall have a minimum width of 12 feet on curves and 10 feet on straight sections.

2. Location and Design
   1. Vehicle stacking is not permitted in the public right-of-way except where a right-of-way encroachment permit is granted.
   2. Stacking lanes shall be designed so as not to block access driveways, inter-parcel connections or maneuverability in and out of off-street parking spaces.
   3. Where pedestrian walkways intersect with drive-thru aisles, there shall be unobstructed visibility and a crosswalk.
   4. All stacking lanes must be clearly identified, through the use of means such as striping, landscaping or signage. The City Manager or his or her designee may require stacking lanes to be separated from other internal driveways by raised medians if deemed necessary for traffic movement and safety purposes.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

1. Protect all property and rights-of-way from potentially adverse effects of adjacent land use activity of a more intensive nature;
2. Improve the appearance of the community by enhancing the appearance of streets, buildings and parking areas;
3. Preserve trees and plants;
4. Maintain and increase property values by requiring site appropriate landscaping to be incorporated into development;
5. Reduce soil erosion and increase site permeability that is essential to stormwater management and aquifer recharge;
6. Mitigate air, water, dust, noise and heat pollution; and
7. Preserve existing vegetation as an integral part of wildlife habitats and incorporating plants and ecosystems into landscape design.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.5-1 Screening of Mechanical Equipment

6. Refuse Storage Facilities
   1. Applicability

      A refuse storage area for the collection of trash and recycled goods shall be provided at the time that any nonresidential or multi-family use is established. Dwellings utilizing residential refuse and curbside recycling carts shall be exempt from these screening provisions. See Sec. 8.7.17, Accessory Structures and Uses, Recycling and Collection Units (Outdoor - Temporary or Permanent), for regulations regarding public drop off recycling and collection units that are accessory uses on private property.

   2. General Provisions
      1. All refuse storage facilities shall be located on private property and limited to the area shown on an approved site plan. An encroachment permit must be obtained prior to installation where such facilities cannot be located on private property.
      2. Refuse storage facilities shall not be located between a street facing façade of the structure and the street and shall be located so as to minimize visibility from street rights-of-way. Such storage facilities may be located within a structure.
      3. Refuse storage facilities shall not be located in any required setback or buffer.
      4. Each refuse storage facility within a multi-family residential development shall be designed to allow the convenient disposal of refuse by residents without having to open the main enclosure gates.
      5. All refuse storage receptacles shall be located at least 15 feet away from any storm drains and shall have a lid to minimize the potential contamination of stormwater runoff.
      6. All refuse storage facilities shall be located in such a manner as to provide 40 feet of maneuvering area for service vehicles.
      7. Pads shall be constructed in compliance with the City of Savannah Stormwater Management Guidelines for Private Development (Section 04-11020), as amended. See the Georgia Rules and Regulations for Public Health, Chapter 290-5-14, as amended, for additional standards.
   3. Screening Methods
      1. All refuse storage facilities shall be screened from public view by an opaque fence or wall including an opaque gate.
      2. Refuse storage facility screening shall be accomplished by an opaque enclosure which is at least one (1) foot taller than the receptacle being screened, not to exceed eight (8) feet in height. The enclosure shall be made of masonry materials that are compatible with the materials of the principal building. The gate shall be made of wood, vinyl or comparable material as determined by the Planning Director.
      3. Gates shall utilize heavy-duty steel posts and frames. Bollards shall be installed to prevent damage to the gate and enclosure.

Figure 9.5-2 Refuse Storage Facility Screening

1. 1. 4. Space within the enclosure shall be provided for accessing and maneuvering the bins.

7. Yellow Grease Bins
   1. For all new construction, yellow grease bins shall be located within the building it is serving or other appropriate location as determined by the City Manager or her or his designee. Such location shall be an area that is not generally accessed by the public.
   2. For existing buildings and renovations of existing buildings, yellow grease bins shall be located within the building it serves unless the City Water Reclamation Department determines that it is not feasible to do so.
   3. Where permitted to be located outside, the standards in General Provisions (Sec. 9.5.3.f.ii.) and Screening Methods (Sec. 9.5.3.f.iii.) above shall apply.
   4. Additional standards are required by City Code Part 5, Municipal Utilities, CHAPTER 2, Sewage Collection and Disposal, ARTICLE E, Waste Cooking Oil Recycling, as amended.
   5. See the Georgia Rules and Regulations for Public Health, Chapter 290-5-14, as amended, for additional standards.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.5-3 Example of Required Buffer for a Proposed Expansion

1. 1. 3. Any expansion exceeding the threshold and that is located within the front or side yard shall comply with the Use, Off-Street Parking Lot and Street Yard Buffers for the entire yard.
   3. When a change of use to a use within a higher land use classification occurs that existed as of the Effective Date of this Ordinance, the Use and Street Yard Buffers shall be provided.
   4. Where one section of this Ordinance specifies different buffering requirements (e.g., a different type of buffer) than another section, the more restrictive or specific provisions shall apply.
   5. When more than one use exists within the same building and on the same property, the required buffer shall be determined by the use with the highest land use class as determined in Sec. 9.5.4.e.i.

3. Exemptions
   1. Properties located within any Downtown zoning district shall be exempt from the buffer provisions of this Section with the exception of the Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer.
   2. Properties located within any TN- or TC- zoning district shall be exempt from the Street Yard Buffer. Such properties shall also be exempt from the Use Buffer provisions of this Section only when the adjacent properties are within any TN-, TC- or D- zoning district. This exemption shall not apply to the Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer.
   3. The requirements of this Section shall not apply to the portion of a property that abuts marshland.
4. General Provisions
   1. Overlap with Required Setbacks

      Use and Street Yard Buffers shall be measured from the property line and may overlap with the required development setback.

   2. Plant Location

      The placement of required plants shall be the decision of each user, except that the following requirements shall be satisfied:

      1. The spacing of plant material shall be in conformance with the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance.
      2. Trees shall be located no closer than three (3) feet from any property line, except where a modified buffer has been approved.
   3. Minimum Planting Requirements

      All trees and shrubs used to meet the minimum planting requirements of this Section shall meet the minimum size planting requirements in order to receive Tree or Landscape Quality Points as required by the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance regardless of whether points are awarded or not.

   4. Maintenance of Landscaping

      Maintenance of required plant material shall comply with the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance.

   5. Credit for Preserved Vegetation
      1. Declining, dead or structurally unsound trees

         No credit will be allowed for any tree if the tree is declining, dead or structurally unsound as determined by the City Manager or his or her designee. The death of or replacement of any preserved tree which was used for credit requires the owner to plant new trees equal to the number of credited trees; such plantings shall meet the applicable requirements of this Ordinance.

      2. Relief from Minimum Planting Requirements

         Where vegetation is proposed to be preserved within a required buffer, the City Manager or his or her designee shall be permitted to reduce or change the number and/or type of required plantings in order to protect the preserved vegetation.

      3. Existing Shrubs

         Existing shrubs within a Use Buffer that meet the minimum plantings requirements of the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance may be used to meet the minimum number of required shrubs for such buffer.

   6. Calculation of Required Plantings within Buffers

      When measurements determining number of plantings result in a fraction, then such fraction equal to or greater than 0.75 shall be rounded up to the next whole number.

   7. Design Variations for Use and Street Yard Buffers
      1. Buffers are typically calculated as parallel to the property line, but design variations are allowed. The average width of the buffer is calculated per 100 linear feet of buffer or portion thereof. The minimum width of a buffer in any case shall not be less than 75% of the required width of the required buffer, but no less than five (5) feet. The maximum width for the purposes of installing required landscaping, or receiving credit for existing vegetation, shall not be more than 125% of the required width of the required buffer.
      2. The average width of the buffer shall be determined by quantifying the width of the buffer for each 10 linear foot increment of buffer, summing these and dividing by the number of increments measured.

Figure 9.5-4 Varying Buffer Width

5. Use Buffers

   The purpose of a Use Buffer is generally to provide a vegetative screen that serves to either obscure the view of adjacent buildings or uses or to achieve a degree of opacity that prevents clear recognition of the use being buffered. The width and opacity of the required Use Buffer increases with the degree of incompatibility between uses.

   1. Land Use Classes

      There are six (6) classes of land uses and zoning districts for the purpose of determining the type of Use Buffer that is required. Within each land use class are land use categories, specific land uses and zoning districts, as listed in Sec. 5.4, Principal Use Table. The zoning district shall be used to determine the land use class of vacant property. Wireless Communications Facilities shall provide a buffer in accordance with Sec. 8.9.

      The following uses shall not be required to provide or be provided a use buffer: Dock, private; Community garden; and Minor utility.

      Commentary: The six (6) classes of land uses shown below include both individual uses and land uses categories.

      1. Class 1
         1. Single-family residential; Two-family residential;
         2. Manufactured homes (excluding those in a manufactured home park);
         3. Monastery, convent;
         4. Personal care home, registered and family;
         5. Agriculture, restricted;
         6. Park, General;
         7. Golf course;
         8. Child/adult day care homes;
         9. Dock, Residential Community;
         10. Watercraft launch/Ramp;
         11. Class 1 Composting Facility; and
         12. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: C-, RSF-, TR-, RTF-.
      2. Class 2
         1. Three-Four Family, Townhomes; attached residential under 5 units per building;
         2. Children’s home;
         3. Personal care home, group;
         4. Rooming house;
         5. Residential Amenity Area, Clubhouse (accessory to a residential use);
         6. Bed & Breakfast, Inn; Short-term Vacation Rental Unit; and
         7. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: RMHP, RMF-1, D-R, D-N.
      3. Class 3
         1. Attached residential 5 units or more per building and apartments;
         2. Group Living Uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         3. Campground, Recreational Vehicle Park;
         4. Agricultural Uses (Agriculture, general shall not be required to buffer against Agriculture, restricted); See Sec. 8.2.2 for Surface Mine/Borrow Pit buffer standards;
         5. All Civic Uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         6. Riding academy; equestrian center; horse stable, commercial;
         7. Uses as permitted (meeting the conditions of) in the OI-T zoning district;
         8. Class 1(a) Composting Facility; and
         9. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: RMF-2, RMF-3, A-1, OI-T, TN-, TC-, D-C, D-CBD, D-W, D-X.
      4. Class 4
         1. Parking facility;
         2. Library/Community Center (public);
         3. Post office;
         4. Shelter, emergency and transitional;
         5. Soup kitchen;
         6. Child/adult day care center;
         7. Child/adult care center, 24 hour;
         8. All Educational uses;
         9. Places of worship (301 seats or more);
         10. All Club or Lodge uses;
         11. All Office uses;
         12. Restaurants; bar; tavern; nightclub;
         13. Lodging (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         14. Indoor Recreation (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         15. Commercial Services (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         16. Retail Sales less than 100,000 square feet (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         17. Shopping Centers less than 100,000 square feet;
         18. Vehicle sales, rentals and leasing; Vehicle service, minor; Moped/scooter sales, rentals and leasing; Watercraft sales, rentals and service;
         19. Self-service storage;
         20. Taxi dispatch; Limousine service and other;
         21. Artisan/Craft - Industry/Manufacturing;
         22. Broadcast Transmission Tower; and
         23. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: OI, OI-E, B-L, B-N, B-C.
      5. Class 5
         1. Hospitals;
         2. Arena; convention center;
         3. Outdoor Recreation (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         4. Animal services; outdoor;
         5. Vehicle, Watercraft and Heavy Equipment sales and service (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         6. Adult-oriented businesses;
         7. Water-oriented uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class); Water-oriented uses shall not be required to buffer against another water-oriented use, regardless of land use class;
         8. Retail Sales 100,000 sq ft or larger (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         9. Shopping Centers 100,000 sq ft or larger;
         10. Research, Testing and Development Laboratory;
         11. Truck stop; Passenger Terminal;
         12. Outdoor Sales; and
         13. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: B-M, I-L-R.
      6. Class 6
         1. Outdoor storage yard (principal use);
         2. Transportation/Communication/Utility uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         3. Industrial Uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class);
         4. Detention & Correctional Facilities;
         5. Waste-related uses (unless specifically listed in another Land Use Class); and
         6. Vacant land within the following zoning districts: I-L-T, I-L, I-H.
   2. Determination of Buffer Type

      Table 9.5-1 identifies the buffer type required for a given development based on its land use class and the land use class of the adjacent property. A Use Buffer is not required between nonresidential uses in a development with outparcels or a combined development.

1. 3. Use Buffer Types and Options

      The following tables contain the minimum standards for the various types of Use Buffers referenced in this Section. Options are available for most types. The minimum buffer planting standards listed for each type and option are per 100 linear feet of buffer. Small and/or medium understory trees may be used unless specifically stated.

      1. Type A Buffer Planting Standards

Figure 9.5-5 Type A Buffer Options

1. 2. Type B Buffer Planting Standards

Figure 9.5-6 Type B Buffer Options

1. 3. Type C Buffer Planting Standards

Figure 9.5-7 Type C Buffer Options

1. 4. Type D Buffer Planting Standards

Figure 9.5-8 Type D Buffer

1. 5. Type E Buffer Planting Standards

Figure 9.5-9 Type E Buffer

1. 4. Permitted Improvements within Use Buffers
      1. Driveways or pathways designed to provide continuous connections between adjacent properties or streets at not less than a 75-degree angle;
      2. Pedestrian or bicycle facilities designed to meander within the buffer provided that the planting requirements of the buffer are met. Such use may require additional buffer width to meet the minimum number of required plantings;
      3. Clearing for visibility triangles as provided in Sec. 4.2;
      4. All overhead utility lines. Only understory trees and shrubs may be located under existing overhead utility lines. If removal of plantings is required for maintenance of the utility lines, the property owner shall be responsible for the replacement of such plantings. Large trees, hedges and fences/walls shall be located outside of the utility easement; and
      5. Utility, drainage and access easements provided that such easements shall not be at less than a 75-degree angle. When an easement is located parallel to the property line and within the required buffer area, the required buffer shall begin after the easement.

Figure 9.5-10 Example of an Easement Crossing a Buffer

1. 5. Design Standards for Use Buffers
      1. Fences and Walls

         In addition to the requirements of Sec. 9.6, Fences and Walls, the following standards shall apply to all fences and walls required to be located within a buffer. Where standards conflict, the provisions of this Section shall apply.

         1. Any fence or wall shall be opaque as specified in Sec. 9.6, Fences and Walls and shall be constructed of textured or split-faced block, brick, stone, stucco over concrete block, architectural tile, decay-resistant wood or similar opaque materials. Wood fences shall be a board on board, shadowbox, or similar style.
         2. The height of a fence or wall shall not exceed eight (8) feet, except as required by other sections of this Ordinance.
         3. Fences and walls shall be interrupted at intervals not exceeding 30 feet by architectural features such as pilasters or columns.
         4. The fence or wall shall be located within one (1) foot of the property line or shall be set back at least 20 feet from the property line. In any case, the fence or wall shall be located within the required buffer.
         5. The applicant shall be required to demonstrate provision for access and maintenance of landscaping and the fence or wall at the time of site development plan review.
         6. When a required fence or wall would be located parallel to an opaque fence or wall at least six (6) feet in height on an adjacent property, the fence or wall shall not be required.
         7. Pedestrian connections through fences, walls or hedges that connect to adjacent neighborhoods or other uses are encouraged.
      2. Plant Location

         All plant materials within a Use Buffer shall be installed to achieve the maximum level of opacity.

      3. Trees

         As a buffer matures, it is anticipated that understory trees may not survive the shading by large trees. Where the buffer opacity has been met, replacement of such understory trees shall not be required.

      4. Shrubs

         Within Use Buffers, only large species of shrubs shall be used. Existing shrubs meeting the standard of Sec. 9.5.4.d.v may also be used.

      5. Hedges
         1. For newly established hedges, shrubs shall be a minimum of two (2) feet in height at the time of planting.
         2. Hedges shall be comprised of large shrubs planted no more than three (3) feet on center.
         3. At maturity, hedges shall be maintained at a height no less than six (6) feet.
         4. Only shrubs from Table 9.5-2 may be used for newly established hedges.

1. 1. 1. 5. The area between the property line and the hedge shall be maintained in conformance with the City Code, Part 4, Chapter 8, Article B, Property Maintenance.

6. Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer

   The purpose of this buffer is to screen vehicular parking areas from adjacent properties and street rights-of-way.

   1. Applicability
      1. This buffer shall be required along a parking lot containing four (4) or more parking spaces that adjoins other properties or where a parking lot abuts a street right-of-way. This buffer shall also be required for the drive aisles associated with such parking lot.
      2. An Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer shall not be required where a Use Buffer is required.
      3. The off-street parking lot buffer requirement shall not include areas designated for display of vehicle sales, rentals or leasing.
   2. Design Standards for the Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer
      1. This buffer shall be comprised of either a minimum three (3) foot high opaque fence or wall or a minimum three (3) foot high hedge within a three (3) foot wide planted area.
      2. Shrubs shall be a minimum of two (2) feet in height at the time of planting and spaced no more than three (3) feet on center.
      3. When an Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer is located within a Street Yard Buffer, the plantings for the Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer may be used to meet the planting requirements of the Street Yard Buffer.
7. Street Yard Buffer

   A Street Yard Buffer establishes a landscape planting area and/or maintains existing vegetation in a designated area parallel to street rights-of-way. With the exception of certain uses, the intent of these standards is not to completely screen development from view but instead, to promote the overall character and identity of the community.

   1. Applicability

      These standards apply to all multifamily and nonresidential development except where exempted by Sec. 9.5.4.b and c.

   2. Measurements
      1. Driveway widths shall not be counted in the calculation of the plant material required nor the amount of impervious surface area within the street yard.
      2. The Street Yard Buffer shall be measured from the existing or future right-of-way line (if applicable) as determined during site plan review.
      3. If an unopened street right-of-way is platted, it shall be treated as a street.
   3. Reduction of Street Yard standards

      Where existing parking areas, buildings or utility, drainage or access easements prevent planting, the Street Yard Buffer and its plantings must first be located on private property to the extent possible and then may be located within the street right-of-way upon approval of a right-of-way encroachment permit. The amount of required plantings may be reduced to the maximum amount that the private property and right-of-way can accommodate, as determined by the City Manager or his or her designee.

   4. Types of Street Yard Buffers

      Most Street Yard Buffers vary by the type of street classification which is provided in the Street Classifications for Land Uses Table (Appendix A-1). Certain uses, however, require a specific buffer type regardless of street classification. Street yard buffers include:

      1. Limited Access Street Yard Buffer

         One of the following planting options shall be provided along the lot frontage:

         1. A 10-foot wide buffer containing three (3) large trees per 100 linear feet; or
         2. Where overhead utility lines or easements are within the buffer, a 10-foot wide buffer with four (4) understory trees and 15 shrubs per 100 linear feet. Selected trees shall not have a mature height over 15 feet.
      2. Arterial or Collector Street Yard Buffer (including frontage roads)

         One of the following planting options shall be provided along the lot frontage:

         1. A 10-foot wide buffer containing three (3) large trees and 15 shrubs per 100 linear feet;
         2. A 10-foot wide buffer containing two (2) large trees, two (2) understory trees and 13 shrubs per 100 linear feet;
         3. Where overhead utility lines or easements are within the buffer, a 10-foot wide buffer with four (4) understory trees and 15 shrubs per 100 linear feet. Selected trees shall not have a mature height over 15 feet.
         4. The following uses shall be permitted to reduce the number of required plantings by 50%: Outdoor Sales; all Vehicle, Watercraft and Heavy Equipment Sales, Rentals and Leasing uses.

Figure 9.5-11 Street Yard Buffer Example

1. 1. 3. Local Street Yard Buffer

         Local Street Yard Buffers shall only be required for development within a nonresidential zoning district across a local street from any RSF- or RTF zoning district. In such case, at the time of development, the nonresidential development shall provide the required use buffer shown in Table 9.5-1 with the exception that a fence or wall shall not be required.

      4. Street Yard Buffer for Certain Uses

         Salvage yards, outdoor vehicle repair and service areas, vehicle towing and impound facility, and similar uses shall provide a Type D Use Buffer along any street right-of-way, regardless of road classification, with the exception that a fence or wall shall not be required. For streets internal to a development, an Arterial and Collector Street Yard Buffer shall be required.

      5. Class 6 Land Uses Street Yard Buffer

         Uses that are categorized as Class 6 land uses in Sec. 9.5.4.e. shall provide a Type E Use Buffer along any street right-of-way, regardless of road classification, with the exception that a fence or wall shall not be required. For streets internal to a development, an Arterial and Collector Street Yard Buffer shall be required.

Figure 9.5-11 Class 6 Land Uses Street Yard Buffer Example

1. 5. Permitted Development and Activity within Street Yard Buffers
      1. Driveways that provide a continuous connection between adjacent properties or streets at not less than a 75-degree angle;
      2. Pedestrian and bicycle facilities provided that the planting requirements of the buffer are met. Additional buffer width may be required to meet the minimum number of required plantings.
      3. Signs;
      4. Mailboxes;
      5. Lighting fixtures;
      6. Concrete drainage swales;
      7. Clearing for visibility triangles as provided in Sec. 4.2;
      8. Vegetative screening for loading, utility service, and display areas and plantings for vehicular surface areas and an Off-Street Parking Lot Buffer;
      9. Overhead utility lines. If removal of plantings is required for maintenance of the utility lines, the property owner shall be responsible for the replacement of such plantings; and
      10. Utility, drainage and access easements may cross the buffer provided that such easements shall not be at less than a 75-degree angle. When an easement is located parallel to the property line and within the required buffer area, the required buffer shall begin after the easement.

Figure 9.5-12 Example of an Easement Crossing a Buffer

1. 6. Design Standards for Street Yard Buffers

      The Street Yard Buffer shall meet all of the following:

      1. No more than 10% of this buffer shall be impervious. Driveways shall not be part of this measurement; and
      2. Credit may be given to any tree over two (2) inches in caliper at one-half (0.5) foot above grade within the right-of-way if it prevents the planting of a tree on private property due to spacing requirements according to the Landscape and Tree Protection Ordinance.

8. Alternative Compliance
   1. Applicability

      Buffer requirements may be modified by the Planning Commission at the time of site development plan review upon a finding that a modification would be consistent with the purpose of this Section; that such modification would not adversely affect the land use compatibility or public interest; and that the subject property or modified buffer complies with one or more of the criteria listed below. Financial hardship due to meeting the requirements of this Section shall not be sufficient justification for alternative compliance.

      1. The required buffer is parallel and adjacent to an existing utility or drainage easement of at least 100 feet in width.
      2. The presence of an existing large tree or screening on an adjacent property would make it physically impossible to install and maintain the required buffer or screen in strict adherence to the requirements of this Section.
      3. Redevelopment of an existing site requires a buffer to be added, but a building, pavement or stormwater facility is existing where the buffer is required.
      4. The site has lost area from an existing buffer due to adjacent road widening.
      5. It can be shown that the required buffer area would occupy more than 30% of the site area. Off-Street Parking Lot Buffers shall not be used to calculate this percentage.
   2. Modification standards
      1. The modification shall involve the least amount of change to the standards of this Section.
      2. To the extent possible, the modified buffer shall meet or exceed the minimum amount of required plantings, despite the reduced buffer width. Where the required amount of plantings cannot be provided because the buffer width is inadequate, the City Manager or his or her designee shall determine the type and the highest number of plantings to be provided.
      3. The Planning Commission shall not eliminate a required fence, wall or hedge as part of a modified Use Buffer.
      4. The City Manager or his or her designee shall ensure that adequate provision for soil and moisture is provided for any plantings in a modified buffer. Such provisions may include raised or at-grade planters, or a requirement for pervious pavement in adjacent parking or other vehicular use areas.
      5. In no case shall a modified Use or Street Yard Buffer width be reduced below five (5) feet.

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Effective on: 1/1/1901

Figure 9.6-1 Examples of Open Fence styles

1. 2. Semi-Opaque

      A fence or wall that consists of between 25% and 75% open voids, as viewed on a horizontal plane.

Figure 9.6-2 Examples of Semi-opaque Fence Styles

1. 3. Opaque

      A fence or wall which has no openings, other than gates, or contains shiplap, tongue and groove or similar overlapping design if made of wood. Apart from opaque walls required by Sec. 9.5, Screening and Buffers, fences or walls that are less than 25% open as viewed on a horizontal plane shall be considered opaque.

Figure 9.6-3 Examples of Opaque Fence Styles

4. Height
   1. How to Measure
      1. The height of a fence or wall shall be measured from the finished grade at the base of the fence or wall to the top of the fence or wall but shall not include posts or columns. Where the finished grade changes, the fence height shall change with the grade.

Figure 9.6-4 Height Measurement

1. 1. 2. A post or column, including decorative features, may extend above the maximum height of the fence or wall as follows:
         1. One (1) foot above the height limit when the size of the post or column is less than six by six (6 x 6) inches; or
         2. Two (2) feet above the height limit when the size of the post or column is six by six (6 x 6) inches or greater.
      3. Barbed or concertina wire, where permitted, shall not be included in the calculation of the height of a fence or wall. However, such wire assemblies or additions shall be restricted to no more than three (3) horizontal wire strands that do extend more than 18 inches above the top of the fence.
      4. A fence or wall that is part of an entry feature or sign may not exceed 12 feet in height.

Figure 9.6-5 Fence or Wall Height when part of Entry Feature or Sign

1. 1. 5. The height of a fence or wall located on top of a retaining wall is measured from finished grade on the higher side of the retaining wall.

Figure 9.6-6 Measurement for Fences or Walls on Retaining Walls

1. 2. Residential and Mixed Uses

      The maximum height of a fence or wall for Residential and Mixed Uses shall be as follows:

      1. Front Yards and Side (Street) Yards (when forward of a front façade): four (4) feet maximum. Additional height may be permitted if the design standards of 9.6.4.e.iv. are met.
      2. Side (Interior) Yards, Rear Yards and Side (Street) Yards (when behind a front façade): eight (8) feet maximum
      3. Perimeter Fencing for a residential development or apartment complex: eight (8) feet
   3. Nonresidential Uses

      The maximum height of a fence or wall for Nonresidential Uses shall not exceed eight (8) feet unless otherwise required by this Ordinance. Additional height may be requested in accordance with Sec. 3.12, Special Exceptions.

   4. Recreational Fencing

      Open fences and walls along the perimeter of recreational uses, such as basketball and tennis courts, may not exceed 10 feet in height. The backstop fence for a baseball or softball field and batting cages shall be excluded from the maximum height standard.

5. Materials and Design Standards
   1. Only the following materials shall be permitted:
      1. Wrought iron and extruded aluminum;
      2. Split-face concrete masonry units (CMU);
      3. Brick;
      4. Stone with mortar or dry stack stones;
      5. EIFS or stucco;
      6. Composite materials;
      7. Vinyl;
      8. Decay-resistant wood that is at least 5/8 inch thick. Wooden fence surfaces other than cypress or cedar should be painted or stained in order to protect the wood from decay;
      9. Chain link for single- and two-family uses and any use within any Agricultural zoning district;
      10. Chain link within any Industrial zoning district shall be galvanized, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) color coated in either black, dark green or dark brown;
      11. Wire fences with wood or decorative posts for single- and two-family uses in and any use within any Agricultural zoning district;
      12. Barbed or concertina wire fences within any Industrial zoning district provided that:
          1. The barbed or concertina wire shall be located at least six (6) feet above the base of the fence; and
          2. Along a street right-of-way the fence shall be set back at least 10 feet from the property line and screened by vegetation. Table 9.6-1 provides the amount and type of plantings required per 100 linear feet of fencing in addition to that required by Sec. 9.5.4.g. This standard shall not apply where a Local Street Yard Buffer, Street Yard Buffer for Certain Uses or Class 6 Land Uses Street Yard Buffer as specified in Sec. 9.5.4.h. is provided.